Cinque Terre is one of the places I fell in love at first sight.
Of course it is one of the places in Italy I love the most. How could I not?
The amazing hike lasting from Monterosso to Riomaggiore, the Manarola bay that makes it perfect to swim and sunbed yourself, the ice cream and the magnificent architecture of each city, the olives and the vineyards, the incredible views and fantastic trails, they all make of this place the perfect day trip adventure.
To me, Cinque Terre is that place on earth I will always return happy and ready to immerse myself into a unique experience that will always fill my soul with abounding happiness.
1. Park your car in La Spezia for free (don't leave your car on the yellow marked section of this car park) in Parcheggio Piazza d'armi (it is 5 minutes walk away from the train station).
2. Buy your train + trail pass on-line.
As of 2022 will set you back around €18 and gives you to unlimited train and trail access for a day.
3. Take the train to Monterosso and start your hike from there.
Of course, you can start from everywhere you want and then take the train back and forth.
To beat the crowds I take the 5am or 6am train to Vernazza, hike to Manarola where I stop for lunch and a swim in the Manarola Bay and from there I go back to Vernazza and hike to Monterosso and then to Manarola and hike to Riomaggiore (from where I return to La Spezia).
4. This hike can be done in a single day trip and I will say it is fairly easy for someone going outdoors three times a year.
5. Don't forget your swimming garment (I recommend the Manarola Bay but you can swim on the beach of Vernazza or Monterosso as well).
