Are you planning a trip to Cinque Terre? Keep on reading, as I’ll share 8 things you should know before your visit.
1. The Pixar movie “Luca” is inspired by the towns of Cinque Terre
“Luca” tells the story of a young boy who is a sea-monster and tries to connect with people above sea level. The beautiful towns of Cinque Terre acted as the inspiration for the movie decor. Especially the town of Manarola is extremely recognisable.
2. The only sandy beaches are located in Monterosso Al Mare
If you want to spend a day at one of the two sandy beaches in Cinque Terre, head over to Monterosso Al Mare. The beaches in the other towns are more of a rocky/stony beach or can be found at a harbour quay, which is technically not a beach, but that’s the charm of Cinque Terre. Want to know more about beaches in Cinque Terre? Check out this post: The best beaches in Cinque Terre.
3. Don’t miss a sunset!
Watching the sunset in Cinque Terre is an activity on its own and certainly not one you want to miss out on. The best -and most popular- places to do so are the harbour in Riomaggiore (tip: make it a picnic and bring a takeout pizza & wine with you) and the walking path towards Punta Bonfiglio’s viewpoint in Manarola. Also read: Top things to do in Cinque Terre.
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4. Don’t visit by car
Note that you can’t drive into the towns of Cinque Terre. The train is by far the easiest way to reach the towns and go from one town to the other. For more details and some other options to get to Cinque Terre, I refer to my Travel Guide.
5. Be prepared to take a lot of stairs
The towns of Cinque Terre are each built onto the side of a cliff, which means you’ll have to conquer many stairs and hobbled roads. Keep that in mind if you bring large luggage. For my female readers: you won’t need your heals here.
6. Book your accommodation in advance
Hotels and Airbnb’s tend to book out fast! Planning to stay in one of the 5 towns? Don’t wait for last-minute deals and book your accommodation right away.
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7. Bring your own snorkel gear
All the five towns have beautiful swimming spots with crystal clear water. Some even have cute little fish. Bringing your own snorkel gear will definitely be rewarded!
8. Buy a Cinque Terre day-pass for the train
This pass allows you to take the train as much as you like that day – ideal for beach-hopping in the cities. Price: €18,20 (updated prices 2022).
Are you ready to book a trip to Cinque Terre? Look no further because this guide will give you all the information and tips you’ll need.