The Cinque Terre, a string of five ancient fishing villages perched dramatically along the rugged Italian Riviera, is a destination that captures the imagination. Its colourful houses tumbling towards the turquoise Ligurian Sea, terraced vineyards clinging to steep cliffs, and breathtaking hiking trails offer an unforgettable Italian experience. 

But with five distinct villages, each with its own unique charm, plus convenient nearby options like La Spezia, deciding on which one of the towns of the Cinque Terre to stay in can be a delightful dilemma. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best town to stay in cinque terre and beyond.

Best Time to Visit the Towns of the Cinque Terre

Choosing the right time to visit can significantly impact your Cinque Terre experience.

Shoulder Seasons (April-May and September-October): These months are widely considered the best time to visit the towns of the Cinque Terre. The weather is generally pleasant for hiking and sightseeing – warm but not overwhelmingly hot. The Tyrrhenian Sea is usually calm enough for boat trips. 

Wildflowers bloom in spring, and the autumn harvest season brings a special ambiance. Crucially, the crowds are thinner than in peak summer, making for a more relaxed experience in the often-narrow streets of the towns of the Cinque Terre. You’ll find better availability and potentially lower prices for accommodations, including charming B&B Cinque Terre options.

Summer (June-August): This is the peak tourist season. Expect hot weather, heavy crowds, and higher prices. While the long sunny days are perfect for swimming and enjoying the beaches (especially in Monterosso), the hiking trails can be very warm, and the villages can feel super congested. Book accommodations and popular restaurants well in advance if you choose to come at this time.

Winter (November-March): This is the quietest time, with the fewest tourists. However, many restaurants, shops, and some accommodations may be closed, especially from mid-November to February. Ferries run less frequently, if at all, and some hiking trails might be closed due to weather conditions. 

While you can find tranquility and lower prices, the weather can be unpredictable, with cooler temperatures and more rain. Christmas in Manarola, with its famous nativity scene, is a notable exception and a magical sight.

Pro Tip:  For the best balance of good weather, open amenities, and manageable crowds, aim for May or September.  We have been here during both months and have loved it!  In addition, you will find more tourists on weekends than during weekdays – so stick to the weekdays if you can.

Getting To the Towns of the Cinque Terre

By Air: The nearest major airports are Pisa (PSA – Galileo Galilei Airport) and Genoa (GOA – Cristoforo Colombo Airport). From either airport, you can take a train to La Spezia, which is the main gateway to the Cinque Terre. Florence (FLR) is also an option, though a bit further.

By Train: This is the most common and convenient way to reach the Cinque Terre. La Spezia Centrale is the key railway hub. From there, the Cinque Terre Express train runs frequently, stopping at all five villages. You can also arrive from major Italian cities like Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice via connecting trains.

Getting Around the Towns of the Cinque Terre

Once you’re in the region, navigating between the towns of the Cinque Terre is part of the adventure.

Cinque Terre Express Train: This is the fastest and easiest way to hop between the five villages and La Spezia (and Levanto, just north of Monterosso). Trains run frequently, especially during peak season (approximately every 15-30 minutes). The Cinque Terre Card Treno includes unlimited train travel on this line (as well as hiking trails and toilets).

Ferry/Boat: From Easter until late September/early October (weather permitting), passenger ferries connect La Spezia, Lerici, Portovenere, and four of the five Cinque Terre villages (Corniglia, being high on a cliff, does not have a ferry dock). This offers a stunning perspective of the coastline from the sea.

Hiking: The legendary hiking trails are a primary draw. More on this below.

By Car: Driving to and within the Cinque Terre is strongly discouraged. The roads are narrow, winding, and parking is extremely limited and expensive. The villages themselves are largely pedestrianized. It’s best to park your car in La Spezia or Levanto and use the train or ferry.

The Five Lands: A Deep Dive into the Towns of the Cinque Terre

Each of the five villages has a distinct personality. Understanding these nuances is key to finding the best town to stay in Cinque Terre for you.

Monterosso al Mare

Overview & History: The northernmost and largest of the five villages, Monterosso is divided into an old town (centro storico) and a new town (Fegina) connected by a tunnel. Its origins date back to the 7th century. Historically, it was heavily fortified to protect against pirate raids, and remnants of its defensive structures, like the Aurora Tower and the castle, still stand.

What It’s Known For: Monterosso is famous for having the only extensive sandy beaches in the Cinque Terre, making it popular with sunbathers and families. It’s also known for its lemon groves and delicious anchovies, celebrated with a dedicated festival.  The lemon festival is typically in May and the anchovy one in September.

What to Do:

• Relax on Fegina Beach or the smaller beach in the old town.
• Explore the historic center with its narrow medieval streets.
• Visit the 13th century Church of San Giovanni Battista (St. John the Baptist) with its beautiful black and white striped facade.
• Hike up to the Convento dei Cappuccini e Chiesa di San Francesco (Capuchin Monastery and Church of St. Francis) for panoramic views.
• See the “Gigante,” a massive oceanside sculpture of Neptune.

Why It Stands Out: It’s the most resort-like of the five, offering more hotels, amenities, and a flatter terrain, making it more accessible for those with mobility concerns.

Famous Connections: Nobel Prize-winning poet Eugenio Montale spent his summers here, and his villa is a landmark.

Best For: Beach lovers, families, those seeking more amenities and a slightly less rugged experience. It’s often considered a strong contender for the best town to stay in Cinque Terre if beach access is a priority.

Vernazza

Overview & History: Often lauded as the most picturesque of the Cinque Terre villages, Vernazza is pure magic. It was founded around 1000 AD and became a crucial maritime base for the Obertenghi family and later the Republic of Genoa. Its natural harbor provided a safe landing point.

What It’s Known For: Its stunning natural harbor, dominated by the medieval Doria Castle (Castello Doria) and the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, which juts out into the sea. If you are hiking from Monterosso to Vernazza, one of the last turns of the hike shows you the first glance of this iconic and incredibly photogenic town.

What to Do:

• Climb the Belforte tower of Doria Castle for breathtaking views over the village and coastline.
• Visit the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, built on a rock overlooking the sea.
• Wander through the main street, Via Roma, lined with shops and cafes.
• Relax in the Piazza Marconi, the main square by the harbor.
• Find the small beach near the harbor for a quick dip.

Why It Stands Out: Its sheer beauty and classic Cinque Terre charm. The harbor is the heart of the village and a wonderful place to soak in the atmosphere. However, its popularity means it can get very crowded.

Famous Connections: While not specifically tied to one famous long-term resident like Monterosso, its undeniable beauty has attracted artists and writers for centuries. Its harbor and distinctive profile have made it a popular backdrop. It was featured in the Pixar movie “Luca” (though the fictional Portorosso is a blend of all Cinque Terre towns) and parts of “The Wolf of Wall Street” briefly depict the area.

Best For: Romantics, photographers, and those who want to stay in the “postcard” village. It’s a strong candidate for best place to stay Cinque Terre for those who just want to stare at the harbor from the trail above morning, noon and night – it is that intoxicating!

Corniglia

Overview & History: Unique among the Cinque Terre villages, Corniglia is not directly on the sea but perched on a high promontory about 100 meters above it. It’s surrounded on three sides by vineyards.  If you have been to the Amalfi Coast – think Ravello.  

To reach it from the train station, you must climb the Lardarina, a long brick staircase of 382 steps, or take a shuttle bus. Its origins are Roman, with the name likely deriving from “Gens Cornelia,” the Roman family that owned the land.

What It’s Known For: It’s quieter, with a more secluded atmosphere due to its hilltop location. It offers stunning panoramic views of the sea and the other villages. It’s also known for its wine production, particularly the local white wine, Vernaccia di Corniglia.  And the red is pretty good as well – Rob quite enjoyed the bottle that we purchased to take back to our place.

What to Do:

• Climb (or take the bus up) the Lardarina for the experience and the views.
• Wander through its tranquil, narrow streets.
• Visit the Church of San Pietro (St. Peter), a beautiful example of Gothic-Ligurian architecture.
• Find the “Belvedere di Santa Maria,” a panoramic terrace offering breathtaking views.
• Enjoy a glass of local wine at a quiet enoteca like the Terra Rossa Winebar or buy a bottle from one of the shops and sip it from your balcony.

Why It Stands Out: Its elevated position offers a different perspective and a more peaceful vibe, as many day-trippers skip the climb. It’s the “quiet one.”

Famous Connections: Less about famous individuals and more about its agricultural heritage, particularly its ancient tradition of viticulture.

Best For: Hikers (it’s a central point on the main trails), those seeking tranquility and to escape the biggest crowds, and wine enthusiasts.

Manarola

Overview & History: Manarola is one of the oldest towns of the Cinque Terre, with the cornerstone of the Church of San Lorenzo dating back to 1338. It’s built on a high rock 70 meters above sea level. The village is surrounded by terraced vineyards producing the famous Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine.

What It’s Known For: Its incredibly scenic harbor area, the vibrant colors of its houses, and its renowned Sciacchetrà wine. Manarola is also famous for its large illuminated nativity scene (presepe) displayed on the hillside during the Christmas season, the largest in the world.

What to Do:

• Walk along the famous viewpoint path (Via Belvedere) for iconic photos of the village.
• Visit the Church of San Lorenzo.
• Explore the harbor and watch daredevils cliff-jumping (or try it yourself if you’re brave and experienced!).
• Learn about wine production at a local vineyard or cooperative.
• During December and January, witness the magical Christmas nativity scene.

Why It Stands Out: Its romantic atmosphere, stunning vistas, and its deep connection to wine production. The sunset views from Manarola are legendary.

Famous Connections: Like Vernazza, its sheer beauty has made it a backdrop for countless photos and art. It strongly evokes the atmosphere seen in Pixar’s Luca. The Via dell’Amore (Path of Love) starts here, connecting it to Riomaggiore (though often subject to closure – check status).

Best For: Couples, photographers, wine lovers, and those seeking iconic Cinque Terre views. Often competes with Vernazza for the title of most beautiful.

Riomaggiore

Overview & History: The southernmost village, Riomaggiore, is characterized by its steep ravine, with colorful tower houses packed tightly together down to a tiny harbor. It dates back to the early 8th century when Greek refugees are said to have settled here. It grew under the Republic of Genoa.

What It’s Known For: Its dramatic setting, colorful houses, and lively, youthful atmosphere. It’s the traditional starting point for the Via dell’Amore hike.

What to Do:

• Explore the main street, Via Colombo, filled with shops, bars, and restaurants.
• Head down to the picturesque harbor, often filled with small fishing boats.
• Visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista.
• Climb up to the Castello di Riomaggiore (Riomaggiore Castle) for views over the village and sea.
• Enjoy the sunset from the rocks near the harbor.

Why It Stands Out: It has a slightly grittier, more “lived-in” feel compared to some of the other villages, with a lively, energetic vibe, especially in the evenings.

Famous Connections: The Via dell’Amore, the famed “Lover’s Lane” walk, links Riomaggiore to Manarola. This path itself is iconic, though its accessibility has been an issue due to landslides.

Best For: Those seeking a lively atmosphere, a good selection of restaurants and bars, and a slightly younger crowd. It’s a popular choice for a lively best place to stay Cinque Terre.

Beyond the Five: La Spezia

Overview: La Spezia is a larger port city located just southeast of Riomaggiore. While not one of the towns of the Cinque Terre, it serves as a major transportation hub and a practical base for exploring the towns of the Cinque Terre. It has a more urban feel, with a wider range of shops, restaurants, and services.

And honestly, we were so happy that we chose to stay in La Spezia!  We stayed in an apartment in the historical part of the town, where we enjoyed the buzz of the restaurants and cafes below us.  Most of the folks here were locals – so we didn’t have that touristy feel around us.

Getting from La Spezia to one of the other towns of the Cinque Terre was super easy as trains run every 20 minutes or so to each one of the 5 towns.

What to Do in/near La Spezia:

• Visit the Naval Museum (Museo Tecnico Navale).
• Stroll along the waterfront promenade, Passeggiata Costantino Morin and the marina.
• Explore the historic center and the Castello di San Giorgio.
• Use it as a base for day trips to Portovenere and Lerici (beautiful coastal towns not part of the Cinque Terre but easily accessible by ferry from La Spezia).

Why Consider Staying Here:

• Budget-Friendly: Generally offers more affordable accommodation options compared to the towns of the Cinque Terre.
• Accessibility: Excellent train connections to the Cinque Terre and other parts of Italy. More parking options if you arrive by car (though still best to use trains for village hopping).
• More Amenities: A wider selection of restaurants, supermarkets, and shops.
• Less Crowded (for sleeping): While busy during the day as a transit point, you can escape the intense tourist crowds of the small villages in the evenings.

Best For: Budget travelers, those who prefer more urban amenities, travelers with cars they need to park, or those looking for a convenient base for exploring the wider Ligurian region.

Hiking Between the Towns of the Cinque Terre with Pro Tips

Hiking between the towns of the Cinque Terre is the reason most folks come here.  For us it was the most magical experience, offering unparalleled views of the coastline and villages.

Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail / Trail #2): This is the most famous and popular trail, connecting all five villages. It’s approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) long and is divided into four sections:

Riomaggiore to Manarola (via Beccara)

Approx. 1.8 km long.  This is the most technical of all the coastal trails in the towns in Cinque Terre.  If you start in Riomaggiore there will be more elevation gain than starting in Manarola.  This hike requires about 1 hour, however the Cinque Terre card is not necessary.  

Pro Tip:  As an alternative to Via dell’Amore, this challenging trail between Manarola and Riomaggiore can be tackled in either direction and doesn’t require a Cinque Terre Card. Be warned, very good physical condition is essential! Although Riomaggiore and Manarola are close, a steep mountain separates them. 

Manarola to Corniglia 

Approx. 2.2 km long, easy to moderate. This section is currently closed.  

Pro Tip: You don’t need a Cinque Terre Card for this trail. While it can be hiked in either direction, starting in Corniglia is easier because the village already sits one hundred meters (330 ft.) above sea level.

Corniglia to Vernazza 

Approx. 3.5 km, moderate, with some steep climbs and descents. Generally considered one of the most scenic sections.  This hike requires about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.  

Pro Tip: You can hike this trail both ways, but for an easier experience, start your journey in Corniglia. A shuttle bus from the train station (a brief ride included with the Cinque Terre Card) ascends to Corniglia village, situated 100 meters high. 

The path from Corniglia starts out fairly level, providing beautiful vistas as you make your way down towards Vernazza. Be sure to pause halfway at Prevo, at 208 meters above sea level, where a juice bar serves lemon granitas and stunning sea views.

Vernazza to Monterosso

Approx. 3.6 km, moderate to challenging, with significant elevation changes. Offers stunning views arriving into both villages.  This hike requires about 2 hours to complete.  

Pro Tip: For an easier hike with fewer steps, walk the trail from Vernazza to Monterosso. Conversely, starting in Monterosso involves a long initial staircase, though you’ll be rewarded with great views of Vernazza along the way.

Riomaggiore to Manarola (Via dell’Amore)

Approx. 900 meters long, easy, mostly flat and paved.  This trail is an additional €10 per person on top of the Cinque Terre Card (which is required).  You can only enter this “trail” from Riomaggiore.  

Since it is paved and so easy, we went both ways for the views and then hiked to Manarola through the technical pass mentioned above from Riomaggiore.

Important Notes for Hiking

Cinque Terre Card: You need a Cinque Terre Card to access the Sentiero Azzurro trails. The card  includes use of the park buses. The “Cinque Terre Treno MS Card” includes unlimited train travel and free use of the toilets at the train stations inside the Cinque Terre (otherwise they are €1 per visit).

Trail Conditions: Trails can be narrow, uneven, and steep in places. Proper footwear (hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers) are essential and trekking poles are recommended.

Closures: Trails can close due to landslides, weather, or maintenance. Always check the official Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre website (parconazionale5terre.it) for the current status of trails before you set out.

Water & Sun Protection: Carry plenty of water, especially in warmer months, and use sun protection.  Water fountains can be found in all of the towns in Cinque Terre.

Higher Trails: Besides the Sentiero Azzurro, there’s an extensive network of higher trails (like Trail #1, the “Alta Via delle Cinque Terre”) that are often less crowded and offer even more expansive views. These are generally more challenging.

Best Place to Stay Cinque Terre

Choosing the best place to stay Cinque Terre also involves finding the right accommodations.  Options can be limited here and the prices get really inflated when booking through other platforms like booking.com or Airbnb.com 

Therefore, if you plan on reserving an accommodation in one of the towns of the Cinque Terre we highly recommend you book directly through the accommodations.  Within our recommendations we have included contact information so that you can get the best price possible for your best place to stay Cinque Terre!

Note that prices can range drastically based on the type of room that you choose and the time of year that you visit.

Monterosso al Mare

Hotels:

• Hotel Stella della Marina: (Single rooms starting at €100/night) Charming 3-star, 17th-century hotel in Monterosso’s old town, near the beach (2 min walk) and station (9 min walk), offers 10  rooms and includes a rooftop breakfast with sea views.  Contact email: info@stelladellamarina.com

B&Bs/Guesthouses:

• B&B Il Parco: (Double rooms starting at €180/night). This relaxed, sea-view B&B near Monterosso station (1 km up the hill) and nearby beach offers colorful rooms, breakfast, parking, a pool, and garden.  What’s App: +39 328 724 3977    Email: beb@ilparco.com
• Manuel’s Guesthouse B&B: (1 bedroom apartments start at €300/night) Sea-view apartments, 2 min walk from the beach, and 10 min walk from Monterosso station.   What’s App:: +39 333 439 0809  Email: info@manuelsguesthouse.com

Vernazza

Hotel

• Il Sorriso di Vernazza – Pensione Sorriso: (Rooms starting at €171/night) Clean and modern hotel with a nice breakfast and terrace.  Located 1 minute from the train.  Phone: +39 018 781 2224

B&Bs/Guesthouses/Airbnbs:

• Pippo a Vernazza: (Rooms start at $110 USD/night).  Quiet rooms at very reasonable prices with some having views and balconies, above a great little restaurant, 6 minutes walk from the station. Contact them through their Insta: @pippoavernazza   

Corniglia

Hotel:

• ARBANELLA: (Rooms start at €85 /night).  2 star hotel with clean and comfortable rooms, some with balconies overlooking the sea.  One of the best values in the towns of the Cinque Terre!.  What’s App: +39 338 495 2022

B&Bs/Guesthouses:

• Sandra Villa Rooms: (Rooms start at €90/double room/night).  Clean and spacious rooms, some with balconies overlooking the sea with great sunsets.  Fabulous service.  Great value.  Contact them through email: info@cinqueterre-sandravillarooms.com

Hostels:

• Ostello Corniglia: One of the few dedicated hostels in the towns of the Cinque Terre, offering dorms and private rooms. A good budget option for hikers.  Contact them on email: ostecorniglia@gmail.com

Manarola

Hotels:

• Affittacamere San Giorgio: (Rooms start at €117/double room/night).  2-star hotel with bright rooms with sea or city views.  Some of the rooms offer suites or kitchens, terraces and balconies.  Located 6 minutes walk from the Manarola train station.  Contact them on email: info@sangiorgiocinqueterre.com

B&Bs/Guesthouses/Airbnbs:

• La Torretta Lodge: (Luxury Guesthouse/B&B – prices start at €400/night) Chic design, spa services, incredible views, and top-notch service. Often cited as a splurge-worthy B & B Cinque Terre.  Contact them at torrettas.com
• Aria di Mare: (Double rooms start at €75/night) Rooms with balconies offering classic Manarola views.  Apartments are also available.  Contact them on email: info@ariadimare.info

Riomaggiore

Hotels:

• Scorci Di Mare: (Rooms start at €90/night ) 3-star hotel located in a renovated 14th century house hanging off the cliff over the sea below, offering great views and service.  Contact them at email: scorcidimare@gmail.com

B&Bs/Guesthouses:

• Cinque Terre Residence: (Rooms start at €160/night ) This 4-star eco-guesthouse has fabulous views and modern, clean, well-located accommodations.  Contact them at email: cinqueterreresidence@gmail.com

La Spezia

Hotels:

• Glam Resort Villa Maria Luigia: (Rooms start at €113/night).  A 2-star hotel with a terrace, garden and pool is a 5 minute walk from the train station.  Contact them at email: info@glamresort.it
• La Gemma delle 5 Terre: (Rooms start at €93/night).  This 2-star hotel is steps from the main train station and a 5 minute walk from the historic town of La Spezia.
• Glam Resort Luxury Lorenzo: (Apartments starting at €128/night).  A 2-star hotel with apartments near the train station and the old historic district.  

We stayed in an Airbnb in the historic part of town which was exceptional, however the rate went up exponentially after our visit (we were the first people in the apartment), so we find it difficult to recommend.

Best Restaurants: A Taste of Liguria 

Eating in one of the towns of the Cinque Terre is a highlight, with fresh seafood, pesto, focaccia, and local wines taking center stage. 

Monterosso al Mare

• Ristorante Miky: (Fine Dining/Mid-Range) A Monterosso institution, famous for its creative seafood dishes, fresh pasta, and impressive wine list. Often cited as one of the best restaurants in Cinque Terre. Why it’s best: High-quality ingredients, innovative cuisine, and excellent service..
• Da Eraldo: (Mid-Range) Seafood & charcuterie platters, plus pasta & fish soups, at a trattoria on a quaint village square.
• L’Ancora della Tortuga: (Mid-Range/Upper Mid-Range) Romantic setting built into the cliffside with stunning sea views. Excellent seafood and Ligurian specialties. Why it’s best: Unbeatable ambiance and views, quality food.
• Gastronomia San Martino: (Casual/Takeaway) Not a full-service restaurant but perfect for delicious, fresh takeaway pasta, pesto, and local dishes. Great for a quick, quality meal. Why it’s best: Authentic, affordable, and high-quality local food to go. 

Vernazza

• Il Pirata delle 5 Terre (Mid-Range) Located in the northern part of the village.  Serving traditional pasta and pizza that is heavenly.  Try the panna cotta as well! Why it’s best: Authentic local dishes with great service from the brothers.
• Pirasca ittiturismo: (Mid-Range) Fresh catch of the day including octopus with an amazing view – the menu changes often.  Why it’s best: Amazing view and seafood.
• Pippo a Vernazza – Food & Wine: (Casual/Street Food) Excellent for focaccia, farinata, and quick bites.  There are vegan options as well. Why it’s best: Delicious, fresh, and affordable Ligurian street food. (Popular for quick eats).

Corniglia

• A Cantina da Mananan: (Mid-Range) A small menu of fresh catch of the day and pasta is considered the best restaurant in Corniglia.  There are 2 seatings per evening and a reservation is recommended.  Why it’s best: Recommended by locals offering authentic, home-style Ligurian cooking that is locally sourced and fresh. 
• Bar Terza Terra: (Bar/Casual) Known more for its stunning sunset views from the terrace than extensive meals, but great for drinks and light snacks. Why it’s best: The ultimate sunset spot in Corniglia. (Popular for aperitivo).
• KM0: (Casual/Lunch) Focuses on local and seasonal ingredients (“zero kilometer”). Great for fresh salads, sandwiches, and light meals. Why it’s best: Fresh, healthy options with a local focus.

Manarola

• Trattoria dal Billy: (Upper Mid-Range) Perched high in the village, requiring a climb, but rewards with spectacular views and fantastic, fresh seafood and pasta. Reservations are essential. Why it’s best: Amazing views, top-quality seafood, and a romantic atmosphere. Frequently named a top pick. 
• Nessun Dorma: (Bar/Casual) Famous for its incredible views (the classic Manarola postcard shot) and its bruschetta, cheese/meat platters, and wine/cocktails. No reservations, often a queue, but worth it. Why it’s best: The view is arguably the most iconic in Cinque Terre for a meal/drinks; great for aperitivo. (Very popular – be prepared to wait).
• Cappun Magru: (Gastronomia/Casual) While the name refers to a specific Ligurian dish, this spot offers excellent quality local takeaway and casual bites, perfect for a picnic. Why it’s best: High-quality, authentic local food for a more informal meal.

Riomaggiore

• Osteria La Torpedine: (Upper Mid-Range) Modern take on Ligurian cuisine.  Good fresh catches of the day and salads.  House wine is also recommended. Why it’s best: Good fresh seafood. 
• Tutti Fritti: (Street Food/Casual) Famous for its fried seafood cones (calamari, anchovies, etc.). Perfect for a quick, tasty, and iconic Cinque Terre snack. Why it’s best: Delicious, fresh, and fun way to eat local seafood. (A must-try for casual eats).

La Spezia

• Osteria all’Inferno dal 1905: (Mid-Range) Historic, rustic trattoria known for its traditional La Spezia and Ligurian dishes, especially mesciua (chickpea and bean soup).  Good fresh caught seafood – try the stuffed mussels. Why it’s best: Authentic local cuisine in a historic setting.
• Trattoria da Vito: (Mid-Range) No-frills, local favorite serving hearty, traditional dishes. Why it’s best: Genuine, home-style cooking loved by locals.
• Osteria della Corte: (Upper Mid-Range) Creative risottos & pastas at a storied osteria with a leafy courtyard, cellar bar & long wine list. Why it’s best: Elevated dining with a focus on quality and presentation.

Must-Try Ligurian Specialties

• Trofie al Pesto: Short, twisted pasta with fresh basil pesto.
• Focaccia: Ligurian flatbread, often topped with olive oil and salt, or with onions, olives, or sage.
• Farinata: A savory chickpea flour pancake.
• Acciughe: Anchovies – a staple, served salted, marinated, or fried. Monterosso is particularly famous for its anchovies.
• Muscoli Ripieni: Stuffed mussels.
• Pansotti con Salsa di Noci: Pasta filled with herbs and ricotta, served with a walnut sauce.
• Sciacchetrà: A sweet, amber-colored dessert wine produced in the Cinque Terre.
• Limoncino: Ligurian lemon liqueur.

Making Your Choice: Which is the Best Town to Stay in Cinque Terre?

There’s no single “best” town; it depends on your priorities:

• For Beach Lovers & Families: Monterosso al Mare is the clear winner due to its sandy beaches and flatter terrain.
• For Iconic Beauty & Romance: Vernazza or Manarola. Both offer breathtaking scenery and a romantic atmosphere. Vernazza has the classic harbor that is the most iconic of the towns of the Cinque Terra.  While Manarola’s incredible sunset viewpoints and the charm of its vineyards are just as captivating and romantic.
• For Peace & Quiet, Hiking & Wine: Corniglia. Its hilltop location means fewer crowds and a more tranquil vibe. It’s also a great central point for hikers.  Prices of hotels here are also lower and Corniglia is the best town to stay in cinque terre for its famous wines.
• For a Lively Atmosphere & Younger Crowd: Riomaggiore. It has a more energetic feel, especially in the evenings.
• For Budget Travellers & Maximum Flexibility: La Spezia. It offers more affordable accommodations and excellent transport links, though it lacks the immediate village charm La Spezia has it’s own historic town which feels quite cozy in itself – especially in the evenings.
• For a Splurge/Luxury: Look at high-end guesthouses like La Torretta Lodge in Manarola.  Many charming and well-appointed B & B Cinque Terre options can also offer a luxurious feel.

Many travelers choose to stay in one village and use the train or ferry to explore the others. This is highly recommended, as each of the towns of the Cinque Terre are worth experiencing and moving around the towns of the Cinque Terre with your luggage is a no go due to the early checkouts and many stairs involved.

Wrap Up: Best Towns to Stay in Cinque Terre

No matter which one of the towns of the Cinque Terre you choose as your base, it will be an unforgettable journey through one of Italy’s most enchanting coastal landscapes. 

From the dramatic cliffs and colourful houses to the delicious food and scenic trails, it’s a destination that truly lives up to its legendary reputation. 

Ultimately, the best town to stay in Cinque Terre is the one that resonates most with your travel dreams.

• For beach lovers and families: Monterosso al Mare.
• For iconic beauty and a lively harbor (if you don’t mind crowds): Vernazza.
• For tranquility, hiking, better prices for accommodations and stunning views away from the sea-level bustle: Corniglia.
• For romance, breathtaking sunsets, and picture-perfect vistas: Manarola.
• For a lively party atmosphere and a classic Cinque Terre feel: Riomaggiore.
• For amenities, budget-friendlier base with excellent transport: La Spezia.

Our experience of staying just outside the towns of the Cinque Terre in La Spezia was amazing!  Regardless of which one of the towns you choose you will be taking the train or hiking to one of the other destinations almost daily – therefore for us it was a no brainer to stay in La Spezia and enjoy the great amenities that it has to offer.

Another good decision was getting the Cinque Terre Card – it is available at each of the train stations including the one in La Spezia.  Determining which time to come here is also key.  Our recommendation is to visit either in May or in September, when the crowds are smaller and the air is fresher.

Regardless which of the Towns of the Cinque Terre you choose, or if you opt for a delightful b&b Cinque Terre just outside, this unique stretch of the Italian Riviera promises an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, delicious food, and memories to last a lifetime. Plan ahead, enjoy the slower pace, and get ready to fall in love with the Cinque Terre.

Have you been to any of the towns of the Cinque Terre or do you plan to go?  We would love to hear your impressions or answer any questions which you may have in the comments below.

If you are looking for some great beaches in Greece – Afitos Beaches are splendid!