We love the Cinque Terre—even in the winter!The Cinque Terre, or “Five Lands”, are 5 picturesque villages built on the rugged and hilly landscape of the Liguria coastline and one of Italy‘s most popular sites,
The main advantage is how quiet things are in the low season. There are still people visiting but only a fraction of the normal numbers.This makes it easier to visit at a relaxed pace and to enjoy the views. And the villages sill look beautiful! The trains run less frequently, but, not busy at all.Riomaggiore is the busiest of the 5 villages and the one closest to La Spezia, at the southern end of the Cinque Terre. Riomaggiore rises steeply up a narrow valley.Manarola is the oldest and one of the most beautiful. It may look small, but the tiny streets are very steep and full of stairs, with a surprise at every corner.Vernazza was probably our favorite. The small square and calm bay right at the heart of the town are a great and inviting place to hang about.

Monterosso is split into two parts – old and new, which are connected by a tunnel. The train stops at modern Monterosso, where you can find a long sandy beach and more modern amenities, including accommodation and restaurants.