Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre which also translates to “five towns” comprises five separate fishing villages namely Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore. Situated on the higher part of the Italian Riviera, these five villages were historically linked by mule tracks and can be accessed only by water or rail.
Cinque Terre is known for its stunning beauty, colorful sights and an amazing view of the harbors. In 1977, the Cinque Terre got recognition by the UNESCO Mankind’s World Heritage and remains a National Park and Protected Marine Area today.
Each village has its own unique and breathtaking features which we totally loved and we are sure that you would too. To journey between villages, you would need to hop on the train and there are over forty trains leaving each town everyday.
Since most of the Cinque Terre haute are not suited for using a car, parking your car in one of the bigger towns and taking a train is your best option. Train fees could be as low as €3.
Monterosso
Monterosso is by far one of our favorite villages because it has the best beaches – more sand and less pebbles. Even on the most cloudy day, you would find the water glistening. As a tip, ensure that you go along with a pair of sunglasses because it could be blinding. But you would definitely love the glistening like we did.
Monterosso is located on flat land and this of course means that you can walk around a lot easier. The ancient ruins located all around this village are some of the incredible sites that most tourists visit. A lot of exploring is usually done, so if this is your thing, Monterosso is one place that you shouldn’t pass up on. Similarly, this is the only town where using your car is advised.
Where to Stay in Monterosso
- Hotel Palme – a four-star hotel and one of the biggest hotels that you would find in Monterosso. This property which is only a short walk from the beach and train station got its name from the palm trees you would see in the garden. There are modern, air-conditioned rooms available here.
- Hotel Villa Adriana – one of the major perks of this hotel is the free car parking feature which is rare in Cinque Terre. Very close to the beach and train station, Hotel Villa Adriana also boasts of a swimming pool, buffet breakfast, and stylish, air-conditioned rooms.
- Hotel Porto Roca – this four-star hotel offers stunning views and a swimming pool. Some rooms have views of the sea and you get your luggage transferred for you, saving you the stress.
- II Giardino Incantato – this hotel is only a two-minute walk from the beach. The rooms all have their own private en-suite bathroom and other features like a flat-screen TV and tea/coffee making equipment.
Vernazza
Vernazza is well known for its cobblestone streets and for a fun fact, cars are not allowed. Vernazza boasts of two beaches, the only natural hair in Cinque Terre and quiet hiking trails located in the midst of the vineyards. It is great for travelers who are interested in doing some hiking and do not mind the night noise.
By far the busiest of the five towns, it has homely bars, restaurants and cafes where you can relax and enjoy Italian delicacies. These restaurants are a great place to hang out and meet new people or get familiar with the town’s culture.
Where to Stay in Vernazza
- Rollando Affittacamere – this hotel is budget-friendly but does not offer a view of the sea. It does have terraces that overlook the village of Vernazza and this is cute too. Rollando Affittacamere offers free WiFi and is only about a 3-minute walk from the beach.
- Hotel Gianni Franzi – for a mid-range one, Hotel Gianni Franzi does offer boast of a number of amazing features. Located less than a 5-minute walk away from the beach, it boasts of an AC, wifi, as well as a terrace view of Vernazza. Perched on a cliff, your view is a breathtaking one of the Mediterranean.
- Rooms Elisabetta Carro – is the hotel that you must have seen in those popular pictures of Vernazza. It is a part of the renowned groupings of buildings located on the little peninsula which juts into the Mediterranean. A rooftop terrace, ocean views and only a minute walk from the beach are some of the most attractive features of the upscale Rooms Elisabetta Carro.
- Hotel Gianni Franzi – has rooms that can accommodate up to 3 people and is very affordable too. Most rooms have their own private bathrooms. The only downside is that there are so many stairs which would be bad for you if you have issues with mobility.
Corniglia
Corniglia is the oldest of the five towns and is often regarded as Cinque Terre’s hidden gem. For travellers who want to avoid large crowds, this town is perfect. With the peace and quiet, you can explore Cinque Terre to your heart’s content and at your own pace. For a bit of a challenge during your exploration, the legendary 370 steps of Lardarina poses one. After your climb, the view from above can only be described as astounding.
Since it is within walking distance of Vernazza, you could easily hike to and fro, experiencing the feeling of more than one town. For some actual relaxation in relative quietness, Corniglia is your best bet. Also, Guvano beach is one of the less deserted beaches that you can visit – it is a nudist beach.
Where to Stay in Corniglia
- La Posada – offers simplicity and stylishness combined. It is very affordable and is located at the very center of the town. Each apartment complex with facilities like a great kitchen, free WiFi and a fitting balcony.
- Affittacamere Arbasia De Ma – one of the most highly rated self-catering places in Corniglia, each room comes with an amazing view of the sea. Although a bit upscale, you would definitely get value for your cash.
- Daa Maduneta – this guesthouse comes with all rooms air-conditioned, some with private gardens and others with amazing views of the sea. They have got breakfast covered since they give vouchers for restaurants close by. Daa Maduneta is one of the top-rated guest accommodations in Corniglia.
- Corte Del Gallo – is a well-known hotel in Corniglia. They Offer WiFi and air conditioning all through the hotel. There are terraces and sun-kissed gardens where you can relax as well as a sumptuous breakfast every morning.
Manarola
The second smallest of the five towns alongside a corresponding small population. This makes it very peaceful and quiet, and the trails are usually quiet and rarely busy. The range of routes that begin here makes it very much suited for avid walkers, hikers and ramblers. Of all the trails, the pathway which leads to Manarola’s northern edge provides the most impressive views of the coast.
Manarola is pretty famous for its beautiful harbor and offers the most scenic background for taking pictures. Sunbathing is mostly done on Rocky outcrops since there isn’t much in the way of a beach. Similarly, the swimming here is amazing thanks to all the beautiful sights.
Where to Stay in Manarola
- Posidonia Cinque Terre – can be found right in the city center and offers great facilities too. Air conditioning, WiFi, en-suite bathroom and tea and coffee makers guarantee that you get value for your money. Also, you could relax in the garden or private balcony.
- Olimpo Affittacamere – offers amazing village and sea views from nearly every room. It is close to the train station and the rooms boast of balcony views and modern fixtures. There’s always an attendant irrespective of time and it is pretty affordable too.
- The First Hotel – for some luxury hotel, this should be your choice. It composes only three private apartments and they all overlook Manarola. Each room has its own terrace, lounge chairs and the design is just exquisite. If you have enough cash, then this would be a great choice.
- Affittacamere San Giorgio – offers great services for its prices. While it is highly affordable, the rooms come with air conditioning and there is a rooftop terrace that overlooks the city streets. Although there are no city or sea views, you can be sure that you would get complete value for your money.
Riomaggiore
The best nightlife in the entire five villages can be found here. At night, the town takes a whole different turn and everybody comes out to have fun. The bars are usually filled with travellers looking to bond and make new friends. Restaurants are usually filled with young people all having a great time and families out on some delicacy hunt.
Exploring the town is more of a day activity and the town’s size guarantees a whole lot to check out. From hiking trails to go scuba diving, there is so much to do in Riomaggiore and it usually has the highest population of young adult travellers who love to interact.
Where to Stay in Riomaggiore
- Locanda Ca Da Iride – is a very affordable hotel especially if you are working with a tight budget. However, this doesn’t make it any less of an amazing place to stay. The hotel which is only about 0.3 miles from the heart of the city has amazing views of the sea, terraces as well as WiFi.
- Crêuza de mä – for the perfect luxury getaway in Riomaggiore, you can count on this hotel. The rooms are very much modern and literally affords you your own private world. Facilities include a rooftop terrace, a garden, and WiFi. The design of this hotel is outstanding and enchants you at every turn.
- Cinqueterre Residence – offers apartments and rooms for up to 3 people. The rooms are spacious and air-conditioned and some even come with terraces or balconies. They offer parking and an outdoor hot tub too. Definitely value for your money.
- Affittacamere Rio Centrale – one of the very affordable accommodation options in Riomaggiore. The rooms are very comfortable and you would definitely get good value for your money.
