The Cinque Terre Trails

If you’re looking for a blend of scenic beauty, rich culture, and exciting physical challenge, you won’t be able to resist the allure of the Cinque Terre hiking trails.

Nestled in the heart of the Ligurian Riviera, the landscapes of the Cinque Terre are characterized by rugged cliffs, stunning sea views, and lively cliffside villages.

48 trails with more than 120 kilometers connect the villages to the coast with breathtaking views. The trail network of the Cinque Terre is suitable for all types of hikers.

From March 18 until November 5, the two most famous trails, from Monterosso to Vernazza and from Vernazza to Corniglia, are chargeable; all others are free. During this period it is recommended to purchase the Cinque Terre Card Trekking or the Cinque Terre Card Train.

The trails are open year-round. From November 6 to March 17, the trails are free of charge and it does not pay to buy a Cinque Terre Card.

For more in-depth trail information, visit the Cinque Terre National Park website and always check for trail closures before you begin your hike. Happy trekking!

Status: OPEN
Difficulty: medium
Distance: 3.6 km
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
Toll: €7.50 or Cinque Terre Card

Google map

Known for its breathtaking views, the trail from Monterosso to Vernazza stretches about 3.5 kilometers. It is moderately challenging, with uneven terrain and steep climbs. However, the panoramic sea views at the end of the trail are a great motivator. As you cruise through ancient vineyards and olive groves, keep your eyes peeled for sightings of the colorful port of Vernazza appearing on the horizon.

Suggestions:

• start early to avoid rush hour congestion and bring your camera to capture unforgettable landscapes.
• The best view is from walking the path from Monterosso to Vernazza

Status: OPEN
Difficulty: medium
Distance: 3.5 km
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
Toll: €7.50 or Cinque Terre Card

Google map

Moving on, the trail from Vernazza to Corniglia offers a slightly easier hike, about 3.2 kilometers long. With its stunning sea views and enchanting wooded sections, this route ends in the only village in the Cinque Terre without a seaport: Corniglia.

Suggestions:

• Take the bus at Corniglia station (ticket included in the Cinque Terre Card) to get to the village located on the hill and then walk the trail to Vernazza.
• Watch out for the hundreds of steps to Corniglia at the end of the trek.

Status: OPEN
Difficulty: easy/medium
Distance: 5.4 km
Duration: 2 hr 30 min
Toll: no

Google map

This route covers about 5.4 kilometers and is a bit more strenuous. From the lofty heights of Volastra, enjoy fascinating sea views and lush vineyards before descending to the romantic fishing village of Manarola.

Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful trails in the Cinque Terre.

Suggestions:

• It is easier to start from Corniglia as it is located about 100 meters above sea level.
• If you walk the trail from Manarola, to avoid the steepest section to Volastra, use the bus service from Manarola to Volastra in about 10 minutes.
• Wear good hiking shoes as downhill sections can be slippery during or after rain.

Status: CLOSED
Diffic ulty : medium/difficult
Distance: 1.5 km
Duration: 30 min
Toll: no

Love Street is currently closed due to a landslide. This trail is scheduled to reopen in July 2024. The alternative path is via Beccara, a medium-difficulty route.

Known as the romantic “Path of Love,” the path connecting Manarola and Riomaggiore is only one kilometer long, making it the shortest and easiest. Along this path you will find many lovers’ padlocks, symbolizing timeless romantic promises.

Status: OPEN
Diffic ulty : medium/difficult
Distance: 1.8 km
Duration: 1 hour
Toll: no

This alternative route to Riomaggiore is less than 2 kilometers long, but make no mistake, as it includes steep and challenging sections. However, the spectacular views of Manarola and the shimmering sea are worth every strenuous step.

At Christmas time, it is from here that the famous Manarola Lighted Nativity scene can be seen.

Status: OPEN
Diffic ulty : medium/difficult
Distance: 13 km
Duration: 5 hours
Toll: no

The longest and probably most challenging route stretches more than 12 kilometers and winds its way to the beautiful town of Portovenere. Expect this hike to last most of the day and reward you with a range of scenery, from sheer cliffs to tranquil pine forests.

Suggestions:

• take plenty of water and snacks with you and don’t be in a hurry-you’ll have a full day of natural beauty to savor.
• Enjoy the most picturesque part of the trail: the ridge known as the “sunsets” and the “Muzzerone” climbing wall.

Status: OPEN
Difficulty: medium
Distance: 8 km
Duration: 3 hours
Toll: no

Starting from Levanto, the hike to Monterosso extends for about 4.8 kilometers. It passes through fascinating olive groves and ancient medieval villages. Reaching the summit, the enchanting panorama of the entire coastline from Monterosso to Punta Mesco opens up.

Suggestions:

• To enjoy the view of the sunset, plan your trip in the late afternoon.
• Start walking the trail beginning in Levanto. This way you will avoid the long flight of steps that starts on the trail from Monterosso.

Click on the photo to enlarge:

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