The Italian Riviera is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the entire world, and the Cinque Terre, or Five Lands in English, are five of the world's most beautiful villages that can be found along it. They are in Italy's Liguria region and have collectively been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. They are characterized by pastel-colored buildings that are perched on terraces above sheer cliffs, but a couple of them do have small beaches. Here's our guide to the five stunning villages of the Cinque Terre:
5. Monterosso al Mare
This village has the other members of the Cinque Terre licked when it comes to good beaches. Monterosso al Mare is situated on the northwest coast, and is home to plenty of wine and artisanal shops, as well as hotels and restaurants. The Old and New Towns are connected via a tunnel that is mainly used by pedestrians. We recommend getting a train to the village if you want to visit, unless you have nerves of steel and feel capable of navigating the narrow steep winding road down to it while encountering the lunacy that Italian drivers are known for. Monterosso al Mare is also famous for its lemons, olives and white wine, so be sure to indulge in these local delights.
4. Corniglia
Smaller and quieter than the other Cinque Terre villages, Corniglia is perched atop a cliff that drops straight into the Mediterranean Sea. You can actually get down to the water via no fewer than 382 steps, but you might just be lucky enough to come across a bus when you're on your way. Narrow streets and quaint buildings are abound in Corniglia, which also happens to be home to some 16th-century fortifications that were built by the Genoese.
3. Riomaggiore
This Cinque Terre village definitely has the "wow" factor to outdo the other villages, and that's because it's buildings literally stand on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. Riomaggiore is famous for its architecture, as well as numerous varieties of locally-produced wine. It also boasts a small beach, and plenty of shops and restaurants for you to choose from. Don't miss out on the medieval church of St. John the Baptist, which oozes serenity from its hilltop location.
2. Manarola
The second-smallest village in the Cinque Terre is also considered to be the oldest. Manarola is a fishing village with a history so long that even the Ancient Romans sang the praises of its locally-produced wine. Take in the charm of the colorful buildings as you wander the village's narrow stone streets. If you're feeling really adventurous, you can also try hiking in the hills above the village, or even walk to Riomaggiore (as mentioned above).
1. Vernazza
Sadly, Vernazza was devastated by flash floods and mudslides in 2011, but it has since recovered and retaken its rightful place as the shining jewel in the Cinque Terre's crown. This small village oozes charm and boasts the best harbor of all the Cinque Terre's villages. To say that it's picture-perfect is an understatement, and it's a great place to explore on foot. In fact, cars aren't even allowed into the village's narrow streets. You can also try hiking between Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare, which takes approximately 90 minutes.
