10 Fun and Exciting Things to Do in Cinque Terre
Whether you’re looking to plan a fun vacation or maybe need some inspiration to get you out of the house, here are ten fun and exciting things to do in Cinque Terre that you won’t want to miss!
Located in the northwest of Italy, Cinque Terre (meaning five lands in Italian) consists of five small fishing villages along the coast of Liguria, just to the west of Tuscany.
UNESCO nominated it as one of the World Heritage Sites and recognized it as a National Park in 1999 because of its rich biodiversity, historical importance and gorgeous views. This area offers breathtaking views and beautiful landscapes that will amaze you!
A List of Things to Do in Cinque Terre
- Enjoy the Sun
- Hike through the Hills and Trails
- Go Wine Tasting
- Enjoy Some Seafood
- Go Kayaking or Snorkeling
- Visit Local Markets
- Visit Museums & Galleries
- Go Antique Shopping
- Take Boat Rides out at Sea
- Find the Best Sunset Spots
Enjoy the Sun
One of the best ways to enjoy your time in Cinque Terre is by sunbathing on one of the many beaches on the coast. You have several options for where you can go, but our favorite is Spiaggia di Monterosso Al Mare beach.
It’s a great place to swim, relax and even play beach volleyball with friends. The water is clean, safe and refreshing! You can find the best spots on the beach by asking locals or looking for signs that say ‘Spiaggia libera’ or ‘mare libero.’
The Manarola Mandate – Things to Do in Cinque Terre
Manarola is a village in Cinque Terre famous for sunbathing and swimming. It also has a beautiful viewpoint to visit. This hill perspective is not a hidden gem and can become extremely crowded as the day wears on and sunset is near.
You do not, however, have to save it only for the golden hour or sunset. The transforming hue of the structures in the light is fascinating throughout the day.
Hike through the Hills and Trails
One of the best things to do in Cinque Terre is hiking on the trails and through the hills. You can start at any point on the coastline, but it’s easiest if you start from Monterosso. From there, you can hike up towards Vernazza or Corniglia. The trail will take you through vineyards and olive groves as well as across fields of wildflowers.
When you’ve reached Cinque Terre, there are many options by means of which you can visit the five towns, but the best is to either take a train or walk.
There are benefits to both. The strolls and treks offer an excellent way to explore the beauty of this area that you’d likely have missed by train. On the other hand, the train is very rapid (it just takes minutes between the villages) and is best if you’re battling against time.
NOTE: Please be aware that numerous tracks have been shut down for repair, and some are periodically open. In this case, it is best to check when you show up and plan your courses accordingly.
Go-Wine Tasting – Things to Do in Cinque Terre
One of the top things to do is go wine tasting! Tuscany is known for its wine, so be sure to take a tour of some of the vineyards.
You can sign up for many wine tours, or if you’re feeling adventurous, hire a taxi for the day and ask them to take you around to wineries. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes because these tours typically involve a lot of walking.
Indeed, winemaking here is specified as rather heroic winegrowing because of how laborious it is to deal with the unbelievably high as well as rocky surface, implying that every little thing from general upkeep to gathering requirements is to be done by hand.
The two most famous local wines are:
- The Cinque Terre DOC
- The Sciacchetrà DOC
Enjoy Some Seafood
In Riomaggiore, stop by the fish market. You can’t miss it; look for the line of people waiting to get fresh seafood. There are two types of seafood you should try: anchovies and sardines.
Anchovies are delicious with some bread dipped in oil, while sardines can be eaten on a bun or grilled with some veggies on top. If you’re feeling brave, try something new. Don’t forget to order some wine too!
Additionally, try Trofie, the local pasta type, and pesto Genovese. And also, while we’re on the subject of unmissable food, don’t forget to taste Alberto’s gelato in Corniglia.
NOTE: If you’re vegan, all the eateries in Cinque Terre will undoubtedly have a pasta meal or something else without meat or fish.
Go Kayaking or Snorkeling
Cinque Terre has many activities that can be done on the water. For example, you can go kayaking or snorkeling. The last time I visited, I did both, but you may be pressed for time.
Kayaking is quite relaxing, while snorkeling can be more exciting. The kayak is a great way to go if you’re looking for a peaceful day. Snorkeling is also a good option if you’re looking for more excitement.
If you want a more leisurely activity, you can take a boat ride around the coast and stop at any of the five villages. You might even glimpse some dolphins if you’re lucky!
Visit Local Markets – Things to Do in Cinque Terre
Visiting local markets should be a must in every tour. These regional markets give an excellent opportunity to explore the country’s culture, food, people and many more things.
One of the best means to take in all the sights, sounds and smells Cinque Terre offers is by visiting one of the many local markets. The markets are great places for fresh produce, cheeses, meats, baked goods, and more. You can also get some souvenirs like clothing or artwork while you’re there.
If you’re lucky, you may even be able to find a table where a local artist has set up shop with their wares. In Portovenere, visitors should stop by the fishermen’s market on Saturday mornings for some of the freshest seafood!
Visit Museums & Galleries
One of the best things to do in Cinque Terre is to visit the many museums, galleries and churches. In Riomaggiore, there is a museum dedicated entirely to archeological finds. In Monterosso, there are galleries filled with paintings by local artists. And, if you’re a fan of churches, you’re in luck as well, because there are quite a few beautiful ones scattered throughout the region.
La Spezia has a virtual naval museum with models, maps and uniforms from different periods of Italian history. There’s also the Maritime Museum which traces human presence on the sea from ancient times up to our time and gives an overview of ancient navigational techniques.
Go Antique Shopping
Italy has a rich history, and you can find some of the world’s best antiques in this country. The biggest draw for people visiting Liguria is the seaside, but a stop in one of the many antique shops can be a fun adventure and can let you come across some very special antique pieces Going antique shopping is actually one of the most popular things to do in Cinque Terre.
There are many stores with beautiful pieces. I recommend checking out at least one shop while visiting if you have time. If not, there’s no harm in window shopping!
Take Boat Rides out at Sea
Plenty of independent watercraft scenic tours run here., Taking a boat ride is ideal if you want to experience a bit of luxurious living, and it offers your legs a little rest too! The best thing about taking a boat ride through the canal is seeing some of the most stunning views.
You can see Mount Vernazza, where there is a castle dating back from 1050 AD, or you can take a look at Riomaggiore, one of the five beautiful villages that make up Cinque Terre. Here you will find some fantastic medieval architecture. If you’re lucky, you’ll also see an albino dolphin frolicking in the water!
Kayak Tours: These tours are excellent to explore the Cinque Terre and are ideal for those searching for an extra energetic excursion, along with the possibility to relish in hidden coves and the quietness of the sea.
Sunset Boat Tour: Cruise from Monterosso to Riomaggiore while appreciating stunning sights. You will have the chance to swim and snorkel and will work up a regional appetite!
Check out Cinque Terre Beaches.
Find the Best Sunset Spots
There are hundreds of viewpoints to enjoy the sunset in Cinque Terre. Though, if I’m truthful, among my favorite areas to enjoy the sun going down is Corniglia when the village gets bathed in a stunning orange glow.
If you wish to get a view of four of the villages at sundown, head to Stella Marina Coastline (at Monterosso). It’s the best place to loosen up with a glass of local wine and enjoy the sunset behind Punta Mesco.
Also, if you feel like an evening stroll, take the route to the sculpture of St. Francesco. The views are extraordinary, and it is just one of the most beautiful things to do in Cinque Terre.
Conclusion
Because there are countless things to do in Cinque Terre, you will never be bored. The list above is just the tip of the iceberg. You see, you can easily spend a week exploring the beaches and villages in Cinque Terre. And after that, what will be your favorite memory? We are sure it’ll be something different for everyone.
All the best!
