3-Day Cinque Terre Itinerary: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Italy’s Colorful Coast
Dreaming of colourful cliffside villages, crystal clear waters or scenic hikes? The Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s most idyllic destinations and definitely worth your next solo trip. This 3 day Cinque Terre Itinerary will take you to all five villages, Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso, with tips on the best hikes, activities and amazing authentic Italian Cuisine. Whether this is your first time solo travelling or just looking for an adventure, this guide will help you plan your days, step by step so you don’t miss a thing. From beautiful sunrise views to late night gelato, here’s everything you need to know to have an unforgettable 3 days in Cinque Terre.
Need to know tips for The Cinque Terre
Location – Cinque Terre, Liguria region, Italy
Recommended length of stay – 3-4 Days (lets you properly see all 5 villages
How to get around? –Local trains, ferries or hiking trails between towns
Where to stay? – La Spezia (for budget) Riomaggiore (for convenience). Normally I would suggest hostels for solo trips although single hotel rooms aren’t much more expensive and you get a far better experience, although you obviously will meet less other solo travellers.
When to visit? – April-June or September-October (Less crowded and hot)
Currency – Euro’s (€)
Top Tip – Buy the Cinque Terre Card for unlimited train + train access (can be pricey, if you aren’t using the trains a lot for the day may be better off just purchasing as you go)
Day 1 - Riomaggiore & Manarola
Riomaggiore
- Start your adventure in Riomaggiore, the second largest of the five Cinque Terre villages and the first stop if you’re arriving from La Spezia. Your day begins at the famous Riomaggiore harbor viewpoint, one of the most photographed spots in Cinque Terre — and trust me, the views are even better in person.Right behind the viewpoint, you’ll find a small bar that’s perfect for a mid-morning drink with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. After soaking it all in, take some time to wander through Riomaggiore’s colorful streets. The village is full of excellent seafood restaurants, cozy cafés, and local activities like wine and cheese tastings, which are a must-try if you want a taste of Ligurian tradition.
How to get to Manarola?
From here, you’ve got a few options for traveling to your next stop, Manarola:
Walk along the famous Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane), the romantic coastal path that links the two villages (entry is around €15 when open).
Hop on the quick train between Riomaggiore and Manarola.
For something more adventurous, take the free hiking trail over the mountain — it’s more challenging but offers fantastic views.
Manarola
Once you arrive in Manarola, take your time exploring this beautiful (and slightly quieter) village. Don’t miss the cliffside viewpoints where you’ll find some of the most iconic Cinque Terre photos.
Optional side trip: If you’re up for it, head to Volastra, a tiny hilltop village above Manarola. You can reach it via a steep 1,200-step trail or by bus. Volastra is worth it for the charming church, vineyards, and a peaceful lunch away from the crowds. Just note that many shops close during siesta (around 3–7 pm).
Back to Riomaggiore
- To wrap up your first day in Cinque Terre, I highly recommend grabbing a takeaway pizza in Riomaggiore (I went to Maggiore Riomaggiore, on the main street) and finding a spot on the rocky beach to watch the sunset over the Ligurian Sea. It’s the perfect way to end your evening before heading back to your accommodation.
Top Experiences in Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre might be small, but there’s no shortage of things to do. Between the colorful villages, the sea views, and the trails that connect them, every day here feels like a postcard come to life.
Hike the Coastal Trails
The famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) connects all five villages and offers jaw-dropping views over the Ligurian coast. Even if you only do one or two sections, it’s worth every step. Don’t forget your hiking pass and some cash for trail fees!
Join a Local Wine or Pesto Class
Liguria is known for its fresh basil, olive oil, and crisp white wines. Take a cooking or tasting class to experience local flavors firsthand — it’s one of the best ways to meet locals and learn about the region’s traditions.
Take a Sunset Boat Tour
Seeing Cinque Terre from the water is something special. Book a small-group sunset cruise to catch the pastel villages glowing golden from the sea. It’s an unforgettable evening and perfect for photos.
Relax on Monterosso’s Beach
After all the hiking, reward yourself with a swim and a lazy afternoon on Monterosso’s sandy beach. It’s the only true beach in Cinque Terre and a great place to unwind with a gelato.
Watch the Sunset in Manarola
This is the classic Cinque Terre moment — watching the sun set behind the colorful houses of Manarola. Grab a takeaway pizza, find a good spot on the rocks, and soak in the magic.
Day 2 - Vernazza & Corniglia
Vernazza
We start our second day in Vernazza, one of the most famous and photogenic villages in Cinque Terre. I recommend arriving early, as the town gets very busy between 10 am and 5 pm when day-trippers arrive. Spend a few hours wandering the colorful streets, exploring the little shops, and enjoying breakfast or coffee at one of the cafés in the harbor.
One of the best things to do in Vernazza is join a pesto-making class ( book here). Pesto originated in Liguria, so there’s no better place to learn! In the class, you’ll make fresh pesto the traditional way — using a mortar and pestle — and enjoy it with homemade pasta, regional wines, cheeses, and olive oils. If you book the 12:30 session, it even includes lunch. It’s a fun and authentic way to experience Cinque Terre’s food culture.
After lunch, it’s time to hike to Corniglia. As you leave Vernazza, you’ll pass one of the most beautiful viewpoints overlooking the town, so don’t forget your camera. To access the trail, you’ll need a Cinque Terre hiking pass, which can be purchased at any train station in the Cinque Terre or at the toll booth before the trail entrance (cash only!). The hike takes around 2 hours, winding past vineyards, olive groves, and dramatic coastal cliffs. Along the way, there are small stands where locals sell fresh juices and wine — perfect for a quick rest and refresh.
Corniglia
When you arrive in Corniglia, you’ll immediately notice it’s the quietest of the five villages (likely because it’s the hardest to reach). This makes it the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere. For dinner, choose from one of the excellent family-run restaurants in the village, then head to the Corniglia viewpoint for an unforgettable sunset over the Ligurian Sea. Afterward, make your way back to your accommodation to rest up for Day 3.
Plan Your Trip:
Here are some handy links to help you book your Italian adventure!
- Book your trains on Trainline
Find stays on Booking.com or Hostelworld.com
Travel light — here’s my Solo Packing Checklist
Day 3: Monterosso al Mare
Monterosso al mare
Our third day takes us to Monterosso al Mare, the largest town in the Cinque Terre. This charming village is perfect for sunbathing, wandering colorful streets, and soaking up the local Ligurian atmosphere. Start by exploring the bustling markets, where you can pick up fresh focaccia, pesto, and other local delights. Be sure to visit San Giovanni Battista Church, a beautiful Gothic landmark, before making your way up to the Convent of the Capuchin Friars for stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
For lunch, enjoy freshly caught seafood at one of the town’s seaside restaurants — from grilled fish to classic Ligurian specialties, it’s a meal not to be missed. Afterward, spend the afternoon relaxing on Monterosso’s golden sands. You can rent a sunbed at one of the private lidos or simply spread your towel on the public beach. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the iconic Neptune statue on Fegina Beach, a perfect souvenir of your day.
As the evening approaches, Monterosso offers a variety of restaurants for dinner — from casual trattorias to elegant seafood spots — before you head back to your accommodation for a well-earned rest. For those with a bit more energy, a stroll along the promenade at sunset provides breathtaking views and the perfect end to your day.
Monterosso Hidden Gems
- Statue of the Virgin of the Serra – A small but beautiful religious statue tucked along a quiet path above the old town. Great for photos and peaceful reflection.
- Via Roma Staircase – Wander this steep, narrow street up into the hills for charming architecture and views without the crowds.
- Lemon and Olive Groves – If you hike a short trail out of town, you’ll find terraces with lemons and olives; locals sometimes sell homemade limoncello.
- Hidden Chapels – Tiny chapels are scattered in the old town; peek inside one for frescoes and a moment of quiet.
- Secret viewpoint on the Fegina cliffs – A short walk from the beach leads to a quiet spot with unobstructed views of the coastline.
FAQ's
1. How long should I stay in Cinque Terre?
3–4 days is ideal. It gives you enough time to explore all five villages without feeling rushed and still enjoy hikes, beaches, and local food.
2. Where is the best place to stay in Cinque Terre?
If you’re on a budget, stay in La Spezia and take the train in daily. For a more local experience, Riomaggiore or Vernazza offer beautiful views and easy access to other villages.
3. How do you get around Cinque Terre?
The easiest way is by train — it connects all five villages and runs frequently. You can also hike between them or take local ferries for stunning coastal views.
4. Is Cinque Terre safe for solo travelers?
Yes! Cinque Terre is one of the safest and friendliest areas in Italy for solo travelers. Just take normal precautions, especially when hiking or walking at night.
5. What’s the best time of year to visit Cinque Terre?
The best time is April to June or September to October — warm weather, fewer crowds, and perfect hiking conditions. Summer can be busy and hot, but still beautiful.
6. Do I need to book tickets for the hiking trails?
Yes — some trails, like the Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro), require a small entrance fee or the Cinque Terre Card. You can buy it at any train station in the villages or at the beginning of the hikes (cash only). The Hiking trails also require you to wear sealed shoes, so don’t bring any open-toed shoes to hike in.
Wrapping up your adventure in Cinque Terre
This 3 day Cinque Terre Itinerary is perfect to soak the charm of Liguria — from hiking coastal trails to savouring fresh seafood and catching golden sunsets over the Mediterranean. Whether you stay in one village or hop between them all, this region is guaranteed to steal your heart.
If you’re planning your next solo adventure, be sure to check out my other travel guides and itineraries
for more destination ideas, travel tips, and budget-friendly inspiration
