Cinque Terre was definitely a highlight of my trip – everywhere was beautiful and everywhere had an amazing view (even the train stations!). This is my list of the Top 5 things that you must do when visiting Cinque Terre (which you need to go and do now!). Be prepared – there are virtually no flat areas – it’s all hills and stairs everywhere!
5. Eat some gelato
I think I had gelato every day that I was in Cinque Terre and I do not regret it one bit. Look at the view you can have while eating it!
4. Go on a train journey from Riomaggiore to Monterosso
I don’t think I’ve ever been on a train journey with a more beautiful view before. Definitely worth travelling the entire length by train (it’s only roughly 30 minutes). I would have gone on one of the hiking trails but, unfortunately, they were all closed when I visited. At least it gives me an excuse to go back (not that I need one!)
3. Church of San Lorenzo in Manarola
This was definitely my favourite church out of the five towns (and Manarola was my favourite town!). The inside is beautiful (and there’s a really friendly cat that hangs around outside – I saw it every day I was there!)
2. Wander and get lost
Definitely the best way to see the towns – although, they’re so small that it’s almost impossible to get lost! I met a lot of cats – which I’m not complaining about!
1. Visit all five towns
This is a given if you’re visiting Cinque Terre. My all-time favourite town was Manarola – and I was lucky that Manarola was the town I was staying in – followed by Vernazza, Riomaggiore, Monterosso and then Corniglia – which I climbed a bunch of steps to get to and immediately realised when I reached the top that I could have caught a bus. I counted the steps on my way down and realised that I had climbed 382 steps in 25 degree heat – with barely any water! I was melting by the time I reached the top – but I don’t regret it!
