5 Best Cinque Terre Hiking Trails and Alternative Routes

A Cinque Terre classic, this world-famous trail connects all five villages in one demanding yet incredibly scenic walk. The path runs from Monterosso all the way to Riomaggiore (or vice versa), bringing you the best of this coastal region in one spectacular stint. For fit, energetic hikers yearning to trek the entire area in one day, there’s no better option than the “Sentiero Azzurro.”

Starting the trail in Monterosso sees you summit the steepest sections first. Novice trekkers could begin in Riomaggiore (or Corniglia) and then return via train should the walk become too tough. No need to pack a picnic lunch; you’ll pass plenty of traditional trattorias as you hike.

• Trail distance: 12 km one-way
• Trail difficulty: Moderate
• Hiking time: 6 to 8 hours
• Trail type: Narrow footpaths with lots of stairs
• Ticket info: Cinque Terre Hiking Card, 1 Day Adults USD 8.06, 1 Day Children USD 4.84
• Trail status: Partly closed until July 2024
• Start/end-point: Riomaggiore to Corniglia

The Riomaggiore Ring Trail sees you ramble away from the coastline and summit a lofty hilltop for breathtaking Cinque Terre vistas. While you won’t trek along the water’s edge, this quick hike is worthwhile for its elevated views. On top of the hill sits the Sanctuary of Montenero, a charming 11th-century monastery with a traditional whitewashed façade.

• Trail distance: 3.5 km
• Trail difficulty: Easy
• Hiking time: 60-90 minutes
• Trail type: Stairs and formed trails
• Ticket info: No ticket required
• Trail status: Open
• Start/end-point: Riomaggiore to Riomaggiore

Meaning ‘Lover’s Way’ in Italian, this enamouring 20-minute stroll is awash with romantic seaside views. A kaleidoscope of color pulsates from the interlocked hearts at the entrance gates while amorous statues line the rock-cut route. A cute little tunnel has been covered with love-inspired murals to complete the romantic theme.

• Trail distance: 1 km
• Trail difficulty: Easy
• Hiking time: 20 minutes
• Trail type: Flat footpath
• Ticket info: Requires a USD 5.37 reservation per hiker
• Trail status: Only the first 160 meters from Riomaggiore are open, with the rest planned to re-open in July 2024
• Start/end-point: Riomaggiore to Manarola (currently Riomaggiore to Riomaggiore only)

Also known as Trail 7a, the Corniglia to Manarola route has you ascend steep steps towards the sleepy hilltop village of Volastra. The sweaty climb will be worth it for the lofty views of Corniglia and the coastline, which you can admire from numerous lookouts en route. Take a breather with a visit to the Sanctuary of Volastra, a small stone brick parish surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Further along the path lies the tiny village of Groppo, where you can enjoy epic views of Manarola below.

This challenging trail has long tempted great swathes of energetic trekkers. But these days, it’s become even more popular as a detour for the Blue Trail’s washed-out Corniglia-to-Manarola coastal section. Even in the quieter shoulder seasons, don’t expect much solitude on the hike.

• Trail distance: 5.8 km
• Trail difficulty: Difficult
• Hiking time: 3-4 hours
• Trail type: Steep stairs and paths
• Ticket info: Not required
• Trail status: Open
• Start/end-point: Corniglia to Manarola (or vice versa)

As the northernmost part of the Cinque Terre Blue Trail, the Vernazza to Monterosso route is among its most challenging. Also known as SVA2 or 592-4, the two-hour course sees you ascend steep steps and meander along a gravel path with lofty coastal views.

Look for “monorails,” which local wine-makers use to transport grapes through the steep terrain. Wildlife-rich wetlands, atmospheric canals, and cascading waterfalls also line the route.

• Trail distance: 3.7 km
• Trail difficulty: Difficult
• Hiking time: 2 hours
• Trail type: Steps, gravel path
• Ticket info: Cinque Terre Hiking Card per day: adults USD 8.06, children USD 4.84
• Trail status: Open
• Start/end-point: Vernazza to Monterosso

Not content with hiking the most popular routes? Check out these three spectacular alternative hikes for epic vistas without the crowds.

1. THE MONTEROSSO NATURE LOOP

Spanning 11km, this gentle, easy-going trail sees you meander inland towards the Sanctuary of Soviore. The descent back to Monterosso is only somewhat steep.

• Trail distance: 11km
• Trail difficulty: Moderate
• Hiking time: 4 hours
• Trail type: Steps, paths
• Ticket info: Not required
• Trail status: Open
• Start/End point: Monterosso to Monterosso

2. THE BECCARA TRAIL

As a less-traveled alternative to the crowded Via Dell’amore Trail, this elevated path offers similar stunning coastal views plus secluded orchards, vineyards and streams. However, expect high foot traffic until the Via Dell’amore Trail reopens.

• Trail distance: 1.4 km
• Trail difficulty: Moderate
• Hiking time: 1 hour
• Trail type: Steps, paths
• Ticket info: Not required
• Trail status: Open
• Start/End point: Riomaggiore to Manarola (or vice versa)

3. CORNIGLIA TO CIGOLETTA

Ascending from the coastal village of Corniglia to the dense Ligurian woodlands of Cigoletta, this seldom-explored route is a great place to escape the crowds. Scenic vineyards, orchards, and olive groves make the arduous climb worthwhile.

• Trail distance: 2.4 km
• Trail difficulty: Challenging
• Hiking time: 5 hours
• Trail type: Stone steps, paths
• Ticket info: Not required
• Trail status: Open
• Start/End point: Corniglia to Corniglia

• Crowds: Cinque Terre is not an off-the-beaten-track destination. Expect shoulder-to-shoulder crowds in all its towns during the high season (June to August) and plenty of trekkers on the trails.
• Best time to visit: For a more secluded experience, aim to hike Cinque Terre in the spring months of April and May, when you can also expect mild weather and minimal rain. The autumn months of September and October also entail a pleasant climate and thinner tourist throngs. All Cinque Terre trails remain open year-round, and fees are waived from November 6 until March 17. While winter temperatures are relatively mild, rainfall is much more common.
• Fees: A one-day Cinque Terre Hiking Card (adults USD 8.06/children USD 5.37) is required for hiking any part of the Blue Trail. You’ll need to pay a USD 5.37 reservation fee to walk the open section of the Via Dell’amore Trail. Purchase your pass online or at any applicable trailhead. For USD 19.34, a one-day Cinque Terre Treno MS Card gives you access to all local trails and unlimited train travel on the Levanto - Cinque Terre - La Spezia line. All Cinque Terre passes offer discounts for consecutive days and concession card holders.
• Distance: Wondering how long is the Cinque Terre hiking trail? The total Cinque Terre hike distance of the Blue Trail (which passes all Cinque Terre cities) is only 12 km one-way. However, it’s pretty steep in places, so allow six to eight hours of walking time.
• Accommodation: A wide range of accommodations resides throughout Cinque Terre, with options for every budget and taste. Local restaurants serve sit-down meals and takeaway bites for a mid-hike picnic lunch.
• Days required: One full day is sufficient to trek between all five villages on the Blue Trail. Aim for two or three days to experience walking in Italy’s Cinque Terre at a leisurely pace. Only hike solo if you’ve got adequate experience and preparation.

Boasting some of the dreamiest coastal scenery in Europe, Cinque Terre is a sublime place to hike. Whether tackling a full-day adventure on the iconic Blue Trail or plodding along a shorter route, this magnificent seaside region is guaranteed to delight.

Make sure to look into our Italy travel guides to know the top places to visit in Italy. If you are planning a trip to Italy and wondering what else to do here, read our guide on things to do in Italy. Or get in touch with our team of Italian travel experts for help organizing an unforgettable trip. We offer fully customizable Italy tours to Cinque Terre and beyond.