Hiking in the Cinque Terre

The incredible beauty and rich heritage of the Cinque Terre makes it a very popular destination, but getting out on foot between the villages offers a chance to see this unique region in a very different light. Wandering along narrow pathways between beautiful terraced vineyards and steeply plunging hillsides, you'll get a real sense of what life was like in this region before the arrival of the railway, as well as an insight into the hardships of living in such an isolated region with such challenging terrain. Exploring on foot with an experienced hiking guide, the picturesque cliffside villages and their citrus and olive farms spring to life.

Departing from your hotel in Porto Venere, you’ll catch the public ferry with your guide along the coast to the Cinque Terre to begin your hike. There are many different combinations of hikes available in the Cinque Terre, so we recommend you discuss your exact arrangements and route details with your Italy specialist in advance to decide what is right for you.

Some of our recommended options include hiking between Corniglia and Manarola, stopping for a slow food lunch en route or attempting a full day hike between Monterosso and Corniglia. We can also arrange for a shorter hike from Vernazza to Corniglia, for example, which can be coupled with a short tour of Rio Maggiore. Walking with a fully qualified hiking guide who knows the terrain and can explain more about the region en route means you’re really able to make the most of the experience.

We recommend that walking should only be attempted by experienced hikers with a high level of fitness and no mobility problems. If you’re concerned in any way about your ability to manage the terrain, we strongly recommend that you speak to your Italy specialist about arranging an alternative tour around the villages.

Please also note that all hiking in the Cinque Terre is weather dependent and if your guide doesn’t think the weather conditions are suitable on the day of your excursion, we may have to cancel or rearrange your tour.