How to Visit Cinque Terre in One Day: A Perfect Itinerary

If you only have one day in Cinque Terre, you can still explore a significant amount of this beautiful region. This guide will help you experience the best of this stunning area, ensuring you make the most of your limited time. With this well-crafted Cinque Terre in one day itinerary, you’ll enjoy the highlights of Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore, and Vernazza.

This one day itinerary is a relatively relaxed itinerary, with no hiking. It does include walking up and down steps (in Riomaggiore in particular), but this section can be skipped if you have mobility limitations.

Note: Hi! If you’re new to my blog, I’m Penelope and I am a chronically ill travel blogger and content creator living in sunny Gibraltar. I have a spinal condition called Klippel-Feil Syndrome and I also have chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia, meaning that I struggle with my mobility at times. You won’t find any 5am starts or any hikes in my itineraries, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed itinerary with lots of breaks, this is the one for you!

All About Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre (pronounced ‘chin-kweh terr-eh’) is a beautiful, coastal area of Italy, located in the region of Liguria. Cinque Terre translates as ‘five lands’, and can be interpreted less literally as ‘five villages’.

Cinque Terre is not one single location, but rather five villages along the coast (not a surprise where the name came from). The five villages, in order from north to south, are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

The coastline, five villages, and surrounding hillsides are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Cinque Terre is actually referenced in documents dating back to the 11th century! The ‘original’ villages that were settled here were Monterosso and Vernazza, with the other villages being settled later. The five villages were almost completely isolated until the construction of the railway from La Spezia to Genoa in 1874, with the only way to get to the five towns being long and winding mule tracks and paths. This isolation meant that the five villages were often referred to as one entity, due to the villages having a similar urban structure and being so isolated from the rest of the towns and communes along the coast.

A scenic view of Monterosso al Mare beach from a viewpoint, with Penelope blurred in the foreground. The colorful beach umbrellas, busy shoreline, and lush hills create a picturesque backdrop. A great spot for capturing memories on a one-day visit to Cinque Terre.

Getting to Cinque Terre

If you only have one day in Cinque Terre, then you are likely to be staying elsewhere along the Ligurian coast! We stayed in Rapallo, which is a beautiful town just 35 minutes by fast train from Monterosso, and easily reachable from Genoa. Rapallo is well worth a visit in its own right!

Getting to Cinque Terre by train

From the nearby towns of Rapallo, La Spezia and Sestri Levante, Cinque Terre is easily reached by train. The trains run regularly from early in the morning to late at night, with a variety of options available.

If you are visiting during peak season, you should book the fast train in advance, as it sells out otherwise. We didn’t realise this on our trip, so ended up having to take the slower, local train from Rapallo and changing at Sestri Levante. This journey took around 50 minutes. The fast train runs every two hours and seat reservations are required, while the slow trains run more regularly and seat reservations are not required, although this may mean you have to stand if the train is particularly busy.

I love using Trainline to book tickets, and in Italy it’s no different! Save time by booking your tickets in advance on the Trainline app or website.

A view of the Rapallo train station, showcasing the railway tracks curving through the town with buildings in the background. The platform is partially covered, and the scene includes lush greenery. — We stayed in Rapallo, on the Italian Riviera, and took the train to Cinque Terre for the day!

Getting to Cinque Terre by car

Top tip: don’t drive to Cinque Terre! While visiting Cinque Terre by car is possible, it’s strongly advised against.

The roads are narrow and mountainous, and there is not a large amount of parking available. Many roads are also limited to residents only!

Getting to Cinque Terre by ferry

The other option for getting to Cinque Terre is to travel there by boat! There are a variety of ferries, as well as boat tours, that will get to Cinque Terre from La Spezia, Levanto and Portovenere.

You can purchase a one-day ferry ticket for Levanto – Cinque Terre – Portovenere – La Spezia, which costs €41 for adults and €15 for children (aged 6-11). This ticket allows you to take unlimited ferries and hop on and off wherever you like during the day.

The ferries don’t run year round (2024 dates: March 23rd – November 3rd) and also do not run in case of inclement weather or the seas being particularly rough. If you want to go by ferry, make sure to have a backup option just in case!

You can also use these ferries just to travel between the villages, which you can see more information on in the section on getting around Cinque Terre!

You can find a guide to the ferries that go to and around Cinque Terre here.

A ferry waits to leave from one of the five towns of Cinque Terre — Credit: CinqueTerre.eu.com

Getting around Cinque Terre

Getting between the five villages is very easy, with both train and ferry options available. Unfortunately for us, the ferries weren’t running when we visited due to rough seas, which had been part of our original plan!

Getting around Cinque Terre by train

Trains between the villages run approximately every 20-30 minutes, with more trains during peak season. You can either purchase individual tickets, or buy the Cinque Terre Pass (full name “Cinque Terre Treno MS Card”).

A one-day pass costs €19,50 (A), €27 (B), or €32,50 (C), depending on the time of year you travel.

Single tickets also vary their price depending on the season, with a ticket between each village being €5 (A), €8 (B), or €10 (C).

You can find the full pricing calendar here. Generally speaking, if you travel between mid June and the end of August, then you will be paying the highest fare as this is peak season.

If you’re taking four or more train journeys, then the pass will save you money! We purchased the pass but only took three journeys (€30 for the three journeys individually versus €32,50 for the pass), but the convenience of not having to buy a ticket for each journey and just being able to hop on the next train was absolutely worth the extra €2,50!

The Monterosso train station in Cinque Terre, featuring a prominent blue sign and an orange-colored building. Passengers wait on the platform under a clear sky.

Getting around Cinque Terre by ferry

As mentioned previously, you can also travel between the five villages by ferry! Our original plan was to do this and take the ferry from Monterosso to Riomaggiore, but sadly the weather gods said no.

If you do take the ferry, the prices are the following:

Monterosso – Riomaggiore: €15 for adults, €5 for children (6-11 years)

Monterosso – Vernazza: €10 for adults, €5 for children

The ferry journeys that are one village away (Monterosso – Vernazza, Manarola – Riomaggiore) cost €10 (note: Corniglia does not have sea access), while the ferry journeys that are two of more villages away cost €15.

The ferries run every hour, starting at around 09:30 (direction Monterosso – Riomaggiore) and 09:45 (Riomaggiore – Monterosso), although the times and frequency depends on the season. The last ferry departures are usually around 17:00/17:30.

Vernazza's picturesque harbor, surrounded by rugged cliffs and small boats floating in the calm waters. The distant hills create a stunning backdrop under a cloudy sky, capturing the natural beauty of Cinque Terre. A perfect view for a one-day visit to the area.

The Perfect One Day in Cinque Terre Itinerary

Start Your Journey in Monterosso al Mare

Start your adventure by taking the train to Monterosso al Mare, the northernmost and the largest of the five villages in Cinque Terre. As you step off the train, you’re greeted by the iconic Bagni Fegina, with its eye-catching orange and green beach umbrellas. This part of Monterosso is the new town, and we will start the day by walking to the old town to explore.

You can take the coastal path (up and down steps), which offers spectacular views of the Ligurian Sea and over Monterosso. If steps aren’t your thing or you want to avoid the more strenuous option, you can take a flatter option without steps by walking through the tunnel instead. This tunnel is predominantly for pedestrians, but a few local vehicles do use it, so take care and keep an eye out for vehicles!

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A vibrant view of the beach in Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre, with rows of orange and green striped umbrellas lining the sandy shore. The turquoise waters meet the mountainous coastline, creating a picturesque scene. This bustling beach is a popular spot in any Cinque Terre itinerary, especially for a one-day visit.

Check the Ferry Schedule

Before you start exploring Monterosso, head to Molo dei Pescatori to check if the ferry is running. If it is, buy your tickets to Riomaggiore!

The ferry offers a scenic and unique perspective of the coastline, plus enabling you to see Corniglia and Manarola, the two villages we aren’t visiting on this itinerary.

If the ferry isn’t running, don’t worry – we’ll use the train instead!

Molo dei Pescatori is a beautiful street alongside the beach in Monterosso, where you will also find the ticket office for the ferries between the towns of Cinque Terre.

Explore Monterosso’s Old Town

Begin your day with a leisurely walk through Monterosso’s old town. Here, you can savour a delicious gelato (we stopped off an Gelateria Gusto Italiano, a tiny little ice cream shop in the heart of the old town) or a traditional Italian caffè, providing the perfect energy boost for the day ahead.

There are lots of beautiful corners as you meander, plus lots of options in case you wanted to pick up a souvenir or two! I bought myself a magnet (as always), plus a tea towel for my mother in law.

A lively street in Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre, bustling with tourists and locals. The colourful buildings, lush bougainvillea, and street vendors create a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for shopping and exploring during a one-day Cinque Terre itinerary.

Don’t miss the Oratorio Mortis et Orationis and the Parrocchia di San Giovanni Battista, two stunning examples of local architecture and history. The Parrocchia di San Giovanni Battista dates back to the 1200s, constructed in a Gothic-Genoese style. You’ll see this style of architecture again in Riomaggiore, as well as if you visit the cathedral in Genoa!

The ornate ceiling of the Oratorio in Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre. The intricate frescoes and detailed stucco work depict religious figures and symbols, showcasing the baroque artistry. This historical site is a must-visit for culture enthusiasts in Cinque Terre. — Interior of Oratorio Mortis et Orationis

Interior view of the Church of San Giovanni Battista in Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre. The church features distinctive black and white striped columns, elegant chandeliers, and a beautifully decorated altar. This architectural gem is a highlight on any Cinque Terre itinerary. — Interior of the Parrocchia di San Giovanni Battista

If you have the option to visit on a Thursday, I highly recommend it! The is a weekly Farmers’ Market that takes place in the town every Thursday morning, where you can buy local produce and handmade items.

Two elderly women walking down a narrow street in Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre. The street is lined with quaint shops, including a bakery and souvenir stalls, reflecting the town's charming and intimate character. A perfect scene for experiencing local life in Cinque Terre.

Next Stop: Riomaggiore

Whether you arrive by ferry or train, Riomaggiore is your next destination. This is the southernmost of the five villages and is recognisable by its colourful houses that overlook the marina.

If arriving by train, you’ll walk through a tunnel to reach the main town. Be aware that Riomaggiore is rather hilly, so if your mobility is limited, then you may want to spend less time here due to the inclines.

A picturesque view of the terraced houses in Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, surrounded by lush greenery. The image captures a tranquil moment with flowers in the foreground and pastel-colored buildings nestled on the hillside. Ideal for showcasing the charming scenery on a Cinque Terre itinerary.

Lunch at Tutti Fritti

In Riomaggiore, treat yourself to a delicious lunch at Tutti Fritti. Their fried anchovies are a must-try and we loved them. We bought a large serving for the two of us and it was so filling! Enjoy your meal al fresco, sitting on the benches opposite the small shop, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming village.

We did also visit a cafe during our visit to Riomaggiore, but I really can’t recommend it – honestly, it was overpriced and low quality, and the only bathroom they had was a squat toilet. I did enjoy trying a caffè al ginseng there, but that’s the only thing I can possibly recommend about Il Maggiore.

A hand holding a cone of delicious fried anchovies from Tutti Fritti in Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre. The street scene in the background includes colorful buildings, emphasizing the authentic al fresco experience. Perfect for a one day in Cinque Terre itinerary, highlighting local cuisine. — The delicious fried anchovies from Tutti Fritti – yum!

Explore the Sights

After lunch, walk up to the church and the castle if you can for breathtaking views of Riomaggiore and the surrounding area. This is a great spot for photos, so have your camera ready!

The church is also called Parrocchia di San Giovanni Battista and is built in a very similar style to the one in Monterosso, but dating from slightly later in 1340.

The facade of a historic church in Riomaggiore, featuring intricate stone carvings and statues. The church has a large rose window and is set against a backdrop of green hills. — Exterior of the Parrocchia di San Giovanni Battista in Riomaggiore

The interior of a church in Riomaggiore, showcasing its stunning architecture with striped columns and an elaborate altar. The setting exudes a serene and spiritual atmosphere. — The interior of the church

A picturesque coastal pathway winding along the cliffs of Riomaggiore, with turquoise waves crashing against the rocks below. The scene includes a small white building and terraced gardens. — Spectacular views from next to the castle of the hillsides surrounding Riomaggiore, including the walkway that would eventually take you to Manarola!

Beautiful views of Riomaggiore are possible on the walk up to the church and the castle.

We sadly didn’t go in the castle, as the entry fee was cash only (€5 each), and we didn’t have enough change on us at the time. The walk up to the castle was still well worth it, as the views were really impressive! The castle was built in 1260, and would be great if you’re particularly interested in the history of the area.

Descend the narrow, steep steps back to the marina to capture that iconic Riomaggiore photo.

The popular photo spot in Riomaggiore, providing amazing views over the marina. The image shows quite how busy the spot gets! — Walk up these steps to this viewpoint for the iconic Riomaggiore photo! It gets pretty busy, so it can be a challenge to get a photo without many other people in.

Penelope stands in the foreground of the photo, with the vibrant terraced buildings of Riomaggiore in the background.

If you would prefer to take the less steep and narrow route, go back the way you came through town to reach the marina, although you can’t entirely avoid steps and uphill slopes!

Final Destination: Vernazza

From Riomaggiore, catch the train to Vernazza, your final stop of the day. Vernazza is a small fishing village and is one of “I Borghi più belli d’Italia” (the most beautiful villages of Italy), an association of 361 villages that was founded to help safeguard, conserve and revitalise small villages in Italy.

The charming facade of Focacceria Da Sonia in Vernazza, Cinque Terre, inviting visitors with its warm decor and traditional baked goods. The small shopfront is perfect for grabbing a quick bite and experiencing local flavors.

27 of the villages on the list are located in Liguria, and Vernazza is the only one of the Cinque Terre to be part of the association.

Fun fact: The 2021 Pixar animated film Luca was inspired by Vernazza and the other villages of Cinque Terre. Pixar animators visited Vernazza, and they based the piazza of the fictional town Portorosso on Vernazza in particular!

The main square in the fictional town of Portorosso, in the Pixar animated film Luca, is designed after the piazza in Vernazza! — The square that Portorosso’s Piazza was modelled on

Visit the Beach and Church

When you arrive in Vernazza, walk down through the colourful town to reach the small beach. First visit the Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia, located right by the waterfront. This church dates back to 1318 and the bell tower overlooks the beautiful harbour.

The interior of the historic Margherita d'Antiochia church in Vernazza, Cinque Terre, with dark stone pillars and arches. A woman stands near the wooden pews, taking in the serene atmosphere. The rustic stone walls and dim lighting create a sense of tranquility, a must-see for a cultural stop on a Cinque Terre itinerary.

The iconic bell tower of the Church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia in Vernazza, Cinque Terre, surrounded by pastel-colored buildings. The church overlooks the harbor, adding to the picturesque charm of the town. A must-visit landmark for travelers exploring Cinque Terre.

Scenic Walk Along Via Visconti

Stroll along Via Visconti – Vernazza’s promenade – for picturesque views of the town. If you’re up for it and the weather permits, you can also walk up to the viewpoint above Vernazza. Unfortunately, during our visit, the rain put a damper on this plan, but it’s highly recommended if you get the chance!

Penelope sits on the edge of the waterfront promenade. Boats and colourful houses of Vernazza can be seen in the background.

Gelato and Souvenirs

No visit to Vernazza is complete without indulging in some gelato. Head to Gelateria Dal 1968 for a sweet treat. Interestingly, this gelateria was once named Gelateria Stalin… and I really want to know more about that!

While in Vernazza, take the opportunity to buy some souvenirs. I picked up some postcards as well as some trofie pasta for myself.

A colorful and lively street scene in Vernazza, Cinque Terre, featuring people walking past a historic building with a gelateria. The warm, inviting ambiance of the piazza makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy local treats during a one-day visit to Cinque Terre.

Heading Back to Monterosso al Mare

After a busy day exploring Cinque Terre, it’s time to head back to Monterosso al Mare.

You can either enjoy dinner in Monterosso or return to where you are staying. If you decide to stay, Pizzeria La Smorfia is highly recommended for a delicious meal!

The streets of Monterosso are beautiful at all times of day!

Conclusion: Your Perfect One-Day Cinque Terre Itinerary

And there you have it—the perfect itinerary for visiting Cinque Terre in one day. This guide ensures you experience the best of Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore, and Vernazza, making the most of every moment. Whether you’re enjoying your gelato, capturing stunning views, or exploring historic sites, this itinerary guarantees an unforgettable day in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions.

The iconic Bagni Fegina (Fegina Beach) cannot be missed in Monterosso!

Tips for Your Cinque Terre Adventure

Timing: Start your day early to maximize your time in each village.
Packing: Wear comfortable shoes! I personally swear by my Skechers.
Weather: Check the weather forecast and bring a light rain jacket or an umbrella if needed. Don’t forget your sun protection too!
Tickets: Buy the Cinque Terre pass if you’re using the train to save money.

By following this Cinque Terre itinerary, you’ll have an amazing experience in the region, even if you only have one day to explore this beautiful area.

Don’t forget to pin this itinerary on Pinterest for later!

How to Visit Cinque Terre in One Day: A Perfect Itinerary

All About Cinque Terre