Cinque Terre, a stunning string of five coastal villages along Italy’s Ligurian coast, is a destination that captivates visitors with its charm, scenic trails, and crystal-clear waters.
While the area is compact, planning a 48-hour visit allows you to explore all five villages at a relaxed pace, using La Spezia as your home base.
In this blog post, I’ll guide you through a well-planned itinerary that includes Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare, with details on staying in La Spezia, using the Cinque Terre Card, and making the most of your time in this picturesque region.
Why Stay in La Spezia?
La Spezia is just a short train ride from Cinque Terre and serves as an excellent base for exploring the region. Compared to the villages, accommodation in La Spezia tends to be more affordable and available, especially if you’re staying in an Airbnb. The town offers a good mix of modern amenities, great restaurants, and proximity to the Cinque Terre villages via the regional train.
What is the Cinque Terre Card?
The Cinque Terre Train Card is the key to stress-free travel between the villages. This card gives you unlimited access to the regional trains that connect La Spezia to the five villages, plus access to hiking trails, WiFi, and some local museums.
The Cinque Terre Train Card costs around €18 for a one-day pass or €33 for a two-day pass, and you can purchase it at the La Spezia train station or online in advance. Since this itinerary includes frequent train travel, the card is a must-have to make the most of your visit.
Day 1: Arrival in La Spezia + Afternoon in Manarola
- 12:00 PM: Arrive in La Spezia
- After settling into your Airbnb and grabbing lunch in La Spezia, you’ll have a bit of time to explore the city. Stroll along Via del Prione, the town’s main shopping street, or take a walk by the waterfront on the Passeggiata Morin.
- 2:30 PM: Train to Manarola
- Start your Cinque Terre adventure by taking a 10-minute train ride from La Spezia to Manarola, the village known for its iconic cliffside houses. Wander the quaint streets, walk to the Punta Bonfiglio viewpoint, and enjoy a coffee or gelato with stunning sea views.
- Manarola is a peaceful place to begin your exploration, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere before the busier days ahead.
- 5:00 PM: Return to La Spezia
- Take the train back to La Spezia and enjoy dinner in town. There are plenty of great dining options, from pizzerias to seafood restaurants offering fresh Ligurian fare like focaccia and pasta al pesto.
Day 2: Exploring Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare
- 6:00 AM: Sunrise in Riomaggiore
- Begin your day by catching the train to Riomaggiore (10 minutes). This village offers an unforgettable sunrise experience, with pastel-colored buildings reflecting off the calm waters of the harbor. Afterward, take a stroll through the village, visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista, and explore its winding streets.
- Begin your day by catching the train to Riomaggiore (10 minutes). This village offers an unforgettable sunrise experience, with pastel-colored buildings reflecting off the calm waters of the harbor. Afterward, take a stroll through the village, visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista, and explore its winding streets.
- 8:30 AM: Train to Vernazza
- After enjoying the peaceful morning in Riomaggiore, head to Vernazza (15 minutes by train), known for its vibrant harbor and historic charm. Hike up to Castello Doria for panoramic views or relax by the waterfront with a coffee. Vernazza’s narrow streets and colorful houses make it one of the most photographed villages in Italy.
- Have lunch at one of the many seaside restaurants and indulge in fresh seafood or a local pasta dish.
- 12:30 PM: Train to Monterosso al Mare
- From Vernazza, take the train (5 minutes) to Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the Cinque Terre villages and the only one with long, sandy beaches. Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or exploring the village’s old town.
- Be sure to visit the Convent of the Capuchin Friars, which sits atop a hill and offers stunning views over Monterosso.
- 5:00 PM: Return to La Spezia
- After a full day of exploration, take the train back to La Spezia (15 minutes) for dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Practical Tips for Exploring Cinque Terre
- Train Schedules: Trains between the villages run frequently, but it’s a good idea to check schedules using the Trenitalia app or website.
- Hiking: If you’re up for hiking between the villages, some trails require the Cinque Terre Trekking Card, so plan accordingly.
- Avoiding Crowds: To experience the villages without the crowds, try visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as mid-day can get busy, especially in peak seasons.
- Packing: Wear comfortable shoes, as the villages are steep and uneven. Don’t forget your swimwear if you want to take a dip in the sea, especially at Monterosso.
Staying in La Spezia gives you a perfect combination of convenience and affordability while you explore the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre. Using the Cinque Terre Train Card ensures that you can move between the towns seamlessly, allowing you to make the most of your 48 hours in this coastal paradise. With this itinerary, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds—peaceful moments in the villages and the comfort of a home base in La Spezia.
