Cinque Terre: one of the gems of the Bel Paese

The Cinque Terre, one of the many gems that make Italy the Bel Paese, attracts tourists from all over the world every year. Five seaside villages nestled between sea and sky along eighteen kilometers of rugged Ligurian coastline, between Spezia and Genoa, in a succession of bays, beaches, deep seabeds, and mountains running parallel to the shore. The pastel-colored houses clinging to the sides of the gorges, the breathtaking views with the sea crashing against the rocks, combined with excellent local cuisine and fine regional wines, make it one of the most Instagrammed areas in the world. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, today the entire area is a national park with approximately 120 km of stunning trails connecting the villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, allowing visitors to experience its true essence.  

The origins of the Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre have medieval origins, with Monterosso and Vernazza founded in the 11th century and the other villages developing under Genoese rule. In the 16th century, defenses were strengthened against Turkish attacks. After a period of decline between the 17th and 19th centuries, the construction of the railway and the Arsenal of La Spezia spurred development but also led to the abandonment of traditional activities, resulting in poverty and emigration. Only from the 1960s, thanks to tourism, did the area regain prosperity. The Cinque Terre landscape has been deeply shaped over time by human intervention to make it cultivable. The steep slopes of the hills have been transformed into terraces supported by dry stone walls, called "ciàn," creating a complex network of gardens, vineyards, stairways, and mule tracks that make this area's scenery so unique and spectacular.  

Focus on the villages

Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore is the first of the five villages and an ideal destination for those seeking a romantic atmosphere thanks to its spectacular location by the sea. Its colorful houses, arranged on steep terraced hills, seem to climb vertically toward the sky, creating an enchanting landscape. The breakwater, one of the most picturesque spots, offers an incredible view and some of the most beautiful sunsets in the area. The origins of Riomaggiore date back to 1239 when the residents of the Carpena district pledged loyalty to the Genoese Company. In 1251, the village was founded by communities settling along the "rio" stream that flows through the valley. Beyond its breathtaking views, Riomaggiore boasts historical and cultural landmarks such as the Church of San Giovanni Battista and the oratories of Santa Maria Assunta, Sant’Antonio Abate, and San Rocco. 

Monterosso

Monterosso is the largest village of the Cinque Terre, described by Montale as a haven for fishermen and farmers. Famous for its long beach stretching along the gulf, the village has historical origins dating back to 1201 when the Lords of Lagneto, owners of a castle now in ruins, made an agreement with Genoa. The Monterosso community developed in 1214 when the first fortifications were built to protect the village from Saracen raids, creating the largest defense system in the Cinque Terre. Monterosso's historic center, with its medieval character, houses the Church of San Giovanni Battista, known for its defensive bell tower. Other attractions include the 17th-century Capuchin convent, the Church of San Antonio del Mesco from 1335, and the castle with its imposing defensive walls. The Aurora Tower, perched on the cliff, offers stunning panoramic views. 

Vernazza

Vernazza, with its charming harbor and square surrounded by brightly colored Ligurian houses, is a small jewel perched on a cliff that makes it even more fascinating. The village, characterized by narrow alleys and numerous restaurants and bars, dates back to 1080 when it was a maritime base for the Obertenghi marquises. Over the centuries, it played a strategic role in naval battles, such as the one against the Pisans in 1170, and took part in conflicts with Frederick II. Today, Vernazza is one of Italy’s most beloved villages, famous for its colorful historic center in shades of pink, red, and yellow. Among its wonders are the Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia and the defensive system that includes the city walls, Doria Castle, and watchtowers such as the Tower of the Convent of San Francesco. A place where history and natural beauty blend into a unique experience. 

Corniglia

Corniglia, the only village of the Cinque Terre traversed by trails, sits on a cliff about 100 meters high, making it ideal for trekking and nature lovers. This ancient Roman village, with a long agricultural tradition, is perched on a cliff that makes it almost inaccessible from the sea. To reach it, visitors must climb the "Lardarina," a long brick staircase with 33 ramps and 377 steps, or take the road up from the train station. Its Roman origins are evidenced by its name, derived from Cornelius, a producer of white wine already known in Roman times. During the excavations of Pompeii, amphorae inscribed with "Cornelia" were found. Main attractions include Largo Taragio Square with the Oratory of Santa Caterina and the Parish Church of San Pietro, one of the most significant monuments on the Ligurian coast. 

Manarola

Manarola is a place where time seems to stand still. Its narrow alleys and quiet squares offer picturesque views, while the promontory provides a breathtaking vista of the sea and the village below. The colorful houses, seemingly sprouting from the cliffs, overlook a narrow marina with rocks perfect for a swim in the sea. Manarola’s history dates back to the 13th century when it was under the rule of the Fieschi family of Lavagna. After the Fieschi were defeated by Genoa in 1273, the village experienced a period of prosperity under Genoese control, becoming known for its production of wine and oil, agricultural traditions that still characterize it today. The name "Manarola" is thought to derive from the ancient "magna Roea," referring to a large mill wheel, still visible in the lower part of the village where a restored old olive press stands. Places of interest include the Church of San Lorenzo, the White Bell Tower, a medieval watchtower, and the Oratory of the Disciplinati della Santissima Annunziata. 

The cuisine, products, and wines of the Cinque Terre

The cuisine of the Cinque Terre is a perfect blend of sea and land, inheriting a simple yet genuine tradition. The typical dishes preserve authentic flavors thanks to the use of local ingredients and Mediterranean aromas. Fresh fish is the absolute protagonist, including anchovies, sea bream, bass, squid, and calamari, enhanced by aromatic herbs such as oregano, thyme, and marjoram, seasoned with local extra virgin olive oil, and accompanied by renowned white wines from the area. Seasonal vegetables, grown in terraced gardens, enrich soups and savory pies with borage, chard, artichokes, and potatoes. Meat is less common, mainly limited to poultry and rabbit. Among local products, the salted anchovies of Monterosso, lemons used for jams, biscuits, and tarts, heather, acacia, chestnut, and wildflower honey, and olive oil stand out.

The most famous wines include Cinque Terre DOC, a dry white perfect for seafood dishes, and Sciacchetrà, the region’s most celebrated passito wine. Produced in limited quantities, Sciacchetrà is made from Bosco, Albarola, and Vermentino grapes dried for three months before pressing, creating a sweet and structured nectar, ideal with desserts. This wine has long fascinated poets and writers, with Carducci describing it as "the essence of all Dionysian intoxications" and Pascoli considering it a precious nectar.

The Cesarine experiences in the Cinque Terre

A trip to the Cinque Terre is not complete without tasting these unique products, the result of centuries of tradition and an extraordinary territory. The best way to fully experience this land is to be welcomed by the locals in their homes, where you can savor dishes that bring back flavors from a distant past. Discover the food and wine experiences that Cesarine has in store for you in this enchanting corner of Liguria!

Things to do in the Cinque Terre

Looking for activities to do during your stay in the Cinque Terre? After enjoying the local cuisine with our Cesarine, you can choose from the many activities this land has to offer. Here are some ideas:

• Visit Corniglia: perched on top of a promontory, Corniglia is the only one of the five villages not located directly on the sea (it can't be reached from the sea). To get there, you need to climb the Lardarina staircase (377 steps) or take the shuttle bus from the station. In the village, you can get lost in the "caruggi", the typical narrow streets, or – if you have a bit more time – you can walk the path between Corniglia and Vernazza, offering a beautiful view of Vernazza's harbor.
• Boat trips: the boat is the best way to enjoy the stunning views of the Cinque Terre coastline. From late March to November, boats connect the five villages to the ports of La Spezia and Portovenere, the latter being a hidden gem in the Gulf of Poets worth a visit.
• Hike between Monterosso and Vernazza: one of the most famous trails in the Cinque Terre, it begins with a long staircase in the historic center of Monterosso, offering a wonderful view of the sea. You will pass through vineyards, cross an ancient bridge, and enjoy a stunning view of Vernazza.
• Canoeing experiences: renting a canoe in Riomaggiore is the best way to explore the coast and the dreamlike waters of the protected marine area. From Monterosso, you can join guided canoe tours.
• Visit Riomaggiore: there's nothing better than enjoying a beautiful sunset in Riomaggiore among the pastel-colored houses. You can walk down to the beach, take a swim in the crystal-clear waters, and then relax with an aperitif.

How to reach the Cinque Terre

• Car: it’s not the best option to reach the Cinque Terre due to narrow roads, many curves, and limited parking in the villages. However, if you must travel by car, the recommended highway exits are La Spezia and Carrodano.
• Train: the ideal way to reach the Cinque Terre, with frequent connections, especially during the high season. Regional trains stop in all five villages.
• Boat: from spring to summer, daily boat services connect the five villages to La Spezia, Lerici, and Portovenere.
• Bus: departing from La Spezia, Explora 5 Terre buses allow you to visit Riomaggiore, Manarola, Volastra, San Bernardino, Corniglia, Vernazza, Monterosso, and all the sanctuaries of the Cinque Terre.