Where to stay in Cinque Terre

You may already know that the Cinque Terre are 5 amazing, romantic and picturesque coastal towns.

In this guide, you will see where to stay in Cinque Terre, which town works best with or without a car, for couples, families, nightlife, or a relaxed stay.

Every town has its character, its personality, its style and its vibe.

But let’s dig into it

Where to stay in Cinque Terre – in a nutshell

If you have only 2 minutes of time, here are a few important points.

• What are the 5 towns? They are Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.
• Where to stay in Cinque Terre without a car: any town is good. My favourite is Vernazza with its beautiful hotels with views into the romantic boutique harbour.
• Where to stay in Cinque Terre with a car: this is an area of Italy that became well famous for its isolation from the country and the world. You may be able to drive to a few towns of the Cinque Terre, however, parking is a huge nightmare. There are just no spots available. Monterosso is the only town where you will find much more parking availability and even a few accommodations that will offer it for free.

Best for	Town	Suggested hotel	My notes
Family	Monterosso	Seaside Apartment	It has a nice beach where you can spend some time with the kids when you are not busy visiting the Cinque Terre and it’s an easily reachable place, with or without a car.
Couples	Vernazza	Casa Gabri	It’s so romantic! It can be very busy though, especially during the day. If you are more about a relaxing and quieter spot, then Corniglia is the place to be.
Budget	Manarola	Da Baranin	This is not the cheapest area to stay in Italy, however, you can still find some bargains, especially if you book well in advance.
Nightlife	Riomaggiore	Le Giare	Most of the Cine Terre towns tend to “shut down” at dinner time, not much happening. Riomaggiore is the only one with some late dinner options and a few bars for a drink even after midnight.
Picturesque	Vernazza	Casa Gabri	The Cinque Terre is now world-famous thanks to the sunrise photos of the Vernazza Harbour. I am sure you have seen them everywhere. It’s a beautiful town to walk around, busy with day trips, however, so much quieter in the evening.
Close to Cinque Terre	Portovenere	La Torre	This town is a destination by itself, so beautiful. You can even visit it on a day boat trip from the Cinque Terre
Winter	Riomaggiore and Monterosso	Le Giare or Seaside Apartment	Everywhere else is quiet or empty and most of the accommodations are closed. This is not to say you should not go. You can have a great and unique time, shared only with a few travellers around. The weather tends to be warmer than in most of North Italy.

The town that I would consider more on a budget is certainly Manarola, however, it does not come cheap. Cinque Terre is everything but inexpensive. For more affordable accommodation, you should consider La Spezia.

La Spezia has more of a city vibe, not as romantic or as picturesque but it’s well connected with any town in Cinque Terre with the train.

Monterosso – Best place to stay in Cinque Terre with a car

I would avoid driving to Cinque Terre, I did it in the past and it was not that easy (limited space) and expensive too.

In saying that, if you have a rented car then Monterosso has the easiest road access and a few parking areas too. 

If you stay in the modern part of the town, called Fegina, there are a few accommodations that offer parking included in the room rate (very convenient).

If the hotel does not provide parking options then book a spot at the Parcheggio Loreto or the Parcheggio Monterosso (up to euro 25/day, based on the season).

Should you stay in Monterosso or leave the car and take a ferry/train to another town?

It really depends on the kind of experience you are looking for. 

If you are travelling as a couple, for example, I would probably go to another town. Same if you are looking for some nightlife.

If you find accommodation with parking included, then I would stay in Monterosso and travel by train to the other towns, just easier, besides being better value

In 2018 Ansa (The National Press Agency) ranked Monterosso Beach in the top 15 most beautiful beaches in Italy which is great if travelling with kids. You can explore the coastal towns and attractions till noon, have lunch and in the afternoon spend some time at the beach with your children. Everyone is happy.

Moreover, the train to the other towns is such great fun for kids and it’s quick too, just a bunch of minutes, literally.

Monterosso has an old and a new centre. The historical centre is more romantic and characteristic. However, it can be tricky if you have a pram, as you may have to go up and down through steps or steep lanes.

This Seaside Apartment has two things that make this accommodation unique, the most amazing view over the beach and sea (see photos here) and free parking (unheard of in this town area). 

Walking distance to the train station, with a lovely balcony and spacious rooms. So easy to get around the Cinque Terre

Check availability at Seaside Apt

If you are travelling with kids, you may also check out the Mansarda 5 Terre, a bit more spacious (see photos here), but still with free parking and a good price too

Check availability at Mansarda

Finally, the Costamare is one of the most beautiful apartments in the new part of town. Absolutely stunning view with a nice typical interior (see photos here).

It’s meters from the beach and the train station. It is a 2-BR unit that can host up to 5 people. Rita, the owner, is a gem full of tips.

Check availability at Costamare

Vernazza – Romantic and photogenic

If you are after a beautiful romantic and picturesque weekend with your partner then book your hotel in Vernazza.

The little harbour is so photogenic, with the small castle right on top of the town.

For the best view, walk up along the walking trail that connects Vernazza to Monterosso, just a few hundred meters.

That is where you will have the best view of the small pier and the main street ending in the square and the tiny beach.

Vernazza is a lovely romantic town, especially at night when most of the day visitors leave. Probably the most romantic place to stay in Cinque Terre. And if visiting the Italian Riviera I also suggest adding to your list the small village of Portofino with its unique stays.

The main street (Via Roma) can be quite busy during the day, but turn left or right in one of the many small lanes and get lost to experience the real Vernazza, with the locals still living and chatting outside their homes.

I wrote a full post of the best 7 stays in Vernazza. This is a quick summary table.

Accommodation	Price	Unique Selling Point	Capacity	Amenities	Location	Summary
Muin a Ventu Historical Tower	$$$$$	Historical charm in an old tower	Up to 5	WiFi, Coffee machine	Less central, stunning views	Unique tower stay with history and modern comforts, less central.
Casa Gabri	$$$$	Amazing water-front balcony	Up to 2	WiFi, Washing machine	10m from Via Roma	Cozy seafront with balcony views, modern amenities included.
Santa Marta	$$$$	Perfect for a family trip	Up to 4	WiFi, Coffee machine, Parking (€20/day)	Next to Via Roma	Family-friendly, modern comforts, central location with terrace views.
Silver Flat	$$$	Best view of the romantic small harbour	Up to 2	WiFi, Coffee machine	Prime view location	Romantic harbourside views, cozy interior, convenient location.
MADA with Jacuzzi	$$$$	Boutique style with balcony and jacuzzi	Up to 2	WiFi, Coffee machine, Spa bath	Great view of the town square	Boutique luxury, jacuzzi feature, prime sunset viewing balcony.
Chiara Rooms	$$	Good accommodation on a budget	Up to 2	WiFi	Metres from the main street	Budget-friendly, simple and central with essential amenities.
Tonino Rooms	$$	The cheapest option in town	Up to 2	WiFi	Near Strada Provinciale 61, 400m from the harbour	Economical, clean, and comfortable stay, slightly away from the harbour.

Are you thinking of visiting the Doria Castle, up there on top of the town? Let me be honest with you, it’s not well maintained and you will find mostly stones. The view is nice though.

A better viewpoint to visit in town is, in my opinion, the Doria Tower. 

Alternatively, plan a dinner at the Torre Restaurant. The pesto pasta is spectacular and the view of Vernazza at sunset is so lovely.

The Pirata delle Cinque Terre is a must-go place for breakfast with super yummy pastries.

And for a wine-tasting section, contact the Cantina Cheo (+39 333 959 4758). The owner will meet and greet you. The Cheo website, as well as Google, provides opening hours that are not really trustable.

Corniglia – a quiet stay

Corniglia is the best place to stay in Cinque Terre if you are looking for a relaxing, quiet and isolated romantic town.

Access to the village from the station is through the steep and scenic Lardarina Staircase. Alternatively, catch a bus (5 minutes ride). 

Corniglia is the smallest of all the towns and it gets super quiet once day visitors leave. In this respect, it is the best location to enjoy the local life, the Cinque Terre as it used to be.

Still, you are very well connected with every town, literally just a max of 7 minutes away by train.

The Rossi Tramonti Studio is absolutely a must-stay if you decide for Corniglia.

Just imagine yourself having breakfast with this view (see photos here)

If you can find it available (it’s a popular place to stay) then book it straightaway (you can always cancel later for free if you change your mind).

Check availability at the Studio

Keep in mind that the bus from the station up to the historical centre runs only till about 9:30 pm. After that, the over 300 steps are the only option for you.

For lunch and “aperitivo” head to the Terza Terra Bar. You will have the best view from Corniglia and the fairest prices in Cinque Terre. 

For dinner, I suggest visiting Mananan, a cosy “osteria” locally run with fresh products. Good value for money, as in most of Corniglia. And for a late glass of wine, have a seat at Er Posu.

For water, refill your bottle at the fountain on top of the Lardarina staircase.

Manarola – Cinque Terre on a budget

If you approach Manarola from the sea, you will be open mouth not only because of the colourful buildings on the enormous cliff but also because of the terraced vineyards that frame this beautiful village.

This is probably the town with more steps in Cinque Terre. It’s steep everywhere. And this is probably what makes this town as romantic as tiring to move around.

This may be the reason that accommodations are usually cheaper than in other towns.

The Da Baranin is a great family-run hotel with offers spacious rooms, a few with a superb view of the mountains (see photos here).

Best of all, the already well-priced rooms include also a gorgeous homemade breakfast. The perfect way to start the day with some healthy food….already saving some euros.

Check price at Da Baranin

I would also suggest Manarola to anyone planning to explore also the inland made of amazing terraced vineyards on an impossible steep land.

I highly suggest taking the trail 6p from the San Lorenzo Church for a 45-minute walk to the Azienda Agricola Capellini. You will experience a view that will stay in your memory for a long while.

Moreover, you will be rewarded with a great selection of wines and a fabulous lunch based uniquely on local products.

Talking about food, Cappun Magru is a great value eatery for lunch or early dinner (they close at 7:30 pm). They have a wide selection of local wines and they will take the time to explain to you the differences and the best wine to go with your meal.

Nessun Dorma is still my favourite spot for a sunset aperitivo and/or dinner. The food selection is not very wide, but all based on local products. The view of the town and the coast is just priceless.

There are no beaches in Manarola but you can have a swim in the small rocky harbour.

Riomaggiore – Best nightlife in Cinque Terre

Riomaggiore is the biggest town in Cinque Terre where you will find most of the accommodations too. It also has more events than any other village.

The most noticeable one is probably the procession of San Giovanni Battista on the 24th of June. Head to the church where at 9 pm the procession starts along the major streets of the town.

Expect an enormous amount of people, of course, really an amazing event to remember for a while.

The town is designed along a central street (Via Colombo) and many small lanes that spread out left and right.

Most of the bars and restaurants are in Via Colombo and that is where you can have drinks till late, even after midnight.

Riomaggiore is a fantastic place to stay in Cinque Terre for singles and couples looking for a bit of social time after dinner. With a nice glass of wine in a beautiful setup.

Try to get accommodation on a side lane. It will be much quieter and still meters away from the action.

The Affittacamere Le Giare is in the perfect location and it offers nice rooms at a bargain price

The rooms are simple and clean, even with a rooftop view (see photos here). Positioned in a silent place and a short walk to bars and restaurants.

Check price at Le Giare

For an aperitivo with a beautiful view, go to the Piè de Mà, right next to the station and just over the cliff.

The Vertical Lounge Bar is still the place to go for a late drink. The owner, Fiorenzo, is usually behind the bar making and serving the drinks. And when there is enough spare time he is a lovely guy to talk with. 

For some wine tasting, go to the Terra di Bargon where Roberto will tell you more about the wine and the history of his land.

Tutti Fritti is a good fish & chips option. For a nice dinner out, check out the Cantina del Macellaio, a lovely restaurant with great food at a reasonable price.

The most famous trail, the “Via dell’Amore” (path of love), starts from Rio Maggiore. It is however closed since 2012, following an accident. The repair should have been already completed, however, it is still not. For an update, check the Wiki page.

Portovenere – Just outside the Cinque Terre

Do you want any proof of how beautiful is Portovenere and the surroundings? 

Well, Portovenere and the three islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto have been added to the Unesco World Heritage list, for the unique multicolour “tower” buildings, the Doria Castle and the San Lorenzo Church dominating the beautiful Gulf of Poets.

Portovenere is also better value than anywhere else in Cinque Terre, both for rooms and food.

It’s a 20 to 30-minute public bus trip from the city of La Spezia, which makes it so convenient if you do not have a car. 

If you are driving from La Spezia, you will be there in no time and parking is not as problematic as in the Cinque Terre (although not that easy)

The Torre Porto Venere is one of the well-kept secret places to stay in town. Why? Because it’s in a 16th-century tower (see photos here).

The rooms are nicely furnished with a romantic touch. Really a unique stay, close to restaurants, cafes and bars. Parking is also available, but it’s not complimentary.

Check availability at the Torre

Even if you decide to stay in another town, you should definitely spare a day to visit Portovenere

The best way to arrive from any of the towns in Cinque Terre is by boat. Besides also being the easiest way, the trip along the coast is by itself breathtaking.

At the port, have a walk up to the castle for the best viewpoint. Explore the town through the countless small lanes and have lunch at the Aciua, an Italian “rosticceria/deli”, or at the Portivene Restaurant, for the great pesto gnocchi.

In the afternoon, have a walk along the coast and, on a summer day, spend a couple of hours at Arenella Beach. What a great day!

The best night to stay in Portovenere, but also the busiest, is the 17th of August, for the celebration of the Madonna Bianca. On this night, the town is illuminated exclusively by lanterns in commemoration of a miracle that happened over 600 years ago. Just incredible.

Plan a short ferry trip to Palmaria Island if you decide to book one or more nights in Portovenere. This island is a National Park with fabulous walks and amazing beaches.

How to move around the Cinque Terre

The easiest way to arrive in Cinque Terre is by train, either from La Spezia, on the east side of Liguria or from Genoa, on the west side.

If you have a car with you, then you have two possibilities:

• drive to Monterosso (the easiest access point) and leave it in a parking place. Expect to pay 20-30 euros/day
• drive to La Spezia (a city, easier to drive around) where you can park the car (the Autorimessa San Giorgio can be well priced, based on the length of your stay)

I would definitely not suggest moving around the Cinque Terre with a car. It takes so much longer and you will always have to pay big money for parking (usually far away from the historic centre).

The train is the easiest, quickest and most effective means of transportation. It’s very cheap too. A trip between the two towns at the extreme (Monterosso and Riomaggiore) takes only 15 minutes.

You can also mix walks and train trips, of course. There are many trails connecting the towns, some of them follow the coast, others more inland.

You would need to pay for a day ticket to enter the walks in the National Park.

If you stay a few days in the area, then you may check the Cinque Terre Card for unlimited access to the trails and/or train. It is a great option that will help the National Park in the maintenance of this unique corner of Italy.

You can buy this card online or simply at any Information Centre or Train station, easy.