GemmaCinque Terre, Italy, is a paradise for anyone who loves the sea, colorful villages, and breathtaking landscapes. Nestled along the Ligurian coast, these five towns—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—offer some of the most scenic coastal walks in the world. Each path provides a unique view of the cliffs, turquoise waters, and terraced vineyards that make this region a photographer’s dream. From my own personal experience, walking these trails isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about immersing yourself in nature, discovering hidden corners, and capturing moments that feel timeless.
Here’s a detailed guide to the 10 scenic coastal walks in Cinque Terre that you truly need to explore, complete with photography tips, things to do, and must-see spots.
1. The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail)
The Blue Trail is the most famous hiking path in Cinque Terre, connecting all five towns along the coastline. This trail stretches about 12 kilometers in total, offering uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Highlights: Start in Monterosso and make your way to Riomaggiore. You’ll pass through charming villages, hidden beaches, and cliffside terraces.
- Photography tips: Early morning or late afternoon offers the softest light for capturing the vibrant houses and sea. Drone shots (where allowed) can show the winding trail and cliffside views.
- Things to do: Pause in Vernazza for a gelato and take photos of the famous harbor. In Manarola, look for the “Via dell’Amore” section, a romantic cliffside path perfect for sunsets.
The trail is moderate in difficulty, making it accessible for most visitors. Based on my overall experience, this hike gives a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
2. Monterosso to Vernazza – Classic Coastal Stretch
The walk from Monterosso to Vernazza is one of the most iconic stretches of the Blue Trail. It’s about 3.5 kilometers and offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
- Highlights: Vineyards, cliff edges, and the sparkling sea. Vernazza’s colorful harbor comes into view as you descend the final steps.
- Photography tips: Capture wide-angle shots from the hilltops to include both the sea and the town. The best time is late morning when the sun highlights the pastel houses.
- Things to do: Stop at small terraces to taste local wine or fresh focaccia. Don’t rush; the viewpoints along the way are worth every pause.
This path is moderately challenging but highly rewarding. From my own personal experience, this walk alone can fill an entire day of memorable photos.
3. Vernazza to Corniglia – Vineyards and Villages
The trail from Vernazza to Corniglia is quieter than the Monterosso-Vernazza path, offering more greenery and fewer tourists. It’s about 4 kilometers long and climbs higher, giving sweeping views of the coastline.
- Highlights: Terraced vineyards, small chapels, and peaceful natural scenery. Corniglia, perched above the sea, is a unique village with narrow streets to explore.
- Photography tips: Look for angles that include both the vineyards and the sea. Overcast days can add moodiness to your shots.
- Things to do: Try local pesto or seafood at Corniglia’s small trattorias. Pause on terraces to watch the sunset over the cliffs.
This walk is more strenuous than some others, but the reward is a combination of stunning coastal views and less crowded photo opportunities.
4. Corniglia to Manarola – Cliffside Views
The Corniglia to Manarola route is shorter, about 3 kilometers, but it’s packed with visual treasures. You’ll pass through olive groves and narrow paths carved into cliffs.
- Highlights: Dramatic cliff edges, terraced vineyards, and distant views of Riomaggiore.
- Photography tips: Focus on leading lines—paths, stone walls, and terraces—to guide the eye through your photos. Morning light brings out the textures of the stone houses.
- Things to do: Explore Manarola’s harbor and try the local Sciacchetrà wine. The colorful houses make excellent subjects for sunset photography.
From my own personal experience, this path feels intimate, as if you’re discovering hidden parts of Cinque Terre that many visitors miss.
5. Manarola to Riomaggiore – Via dell’Amore
One of the most famous and romantic trails, the Via dell’Amore connects Manarola and Riomaggiore. It’s a short, flat path of just under 1 kilometer, hugging the cliffs over the sea.
- Highlights: Stunning sea views, heart-shaped photo spots, and romantic ambiance.
- Photography tips: Late afternoon light creates beautiful reflections on the water. Wide-angle shots capture both the cliffside path and the turquoise waves below.
- Things to do: Enjoy a picnic or a gelato while watching the sunset over the harbor.
Although it’s short, the Via dell’Amore is one of the most photographed parts of Cinque Terre and perfect for a relaxed, scenic stroll.
6. Monterosso to Punta Mesco – Wild Coastline
For those who want a more natural and less touristy walk, Monterosso to Punta Mesco offers rugged coastal scenery. The path is about 4 kilometers one way and features untouched cliffs, wildflowers, and breathtaking sea views.
- Highlights: Lighthouse at Punta Mesco, hidden coves, and panoramic vistas.
- Photography tips: Capture the jagged cliffs and waves from high points. Sunrise can be magical here.
- Things to do: Bring water and snacks; this path has fewer facilities but rewards with solitude and raw natural beauty.
This trail is moderate to difficult, so proper footwear is essential. From my own personal experience, this is the perfect spot to capture dramatic, wild coastal images.
7. Riomaggiore to Portovenere – Long Coastal Adventure
While technically outside Cinque Terre, the hike from Riomaggiore to Portovenere is incredible for photography lovers. It’s a longer trail of about 12 kilometers with uninterrupted sea views and medieval ruins.
- Highlights: Views of Palmaria Island, Castello Doria, and cliffside paths.
- Photography tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture sweeping landscapes. Overcast days can enhance the dramatic cliffs.
- Things to do: Visit Portovenere’s colorful harbor and the San Pietro Church. The journey feels like a reward in itself.
This walk requires a full day, but the combination of cliffs, historical architecture, and turquoise water is unmatched.
8. Monterosso to Levanto – Hidden Beaches
For a more secluded experience, the trail from Monterosso to Levanto takes you along cliffs and hidden beaches. It’s less crowded than the main Blue Trail.
- Highlights: Small coves, pine forests, and expansive sea views.
- Photography tips: Focus on contrasts between green forests and blue waters. Drone shots reveal hidden beaches.
- Things to do: Stop at beaches to relax or swim in clear waters. Collect small shells and take close-up shots of nature details.
From my own personal experience, this path offers the feeling of exploration, as if discovering secret corners of the Italian Riviera.
9. The Higher Trail: Monterosso to Riomaggiore
For adventurous hikers, the High Trail (Sentiero Rosso) offers an alternative route connecting Monterosso to Riomaggiore through hills and forests. It’s challenging but less crowded than the Blue Trail.
- Highlights: Panoramic views of all five villages, terraced vineyards, and forested sections.
- Photography tips: Capture wide landscapes from high viewpoints. Sunset shots from the hills are spectacular.
- Things to do: Bring a packed lunch to enjoy with a view. This trail is ideal for those who want solitude and a different perspective of Cinque Terre.
This hike is for those seeking adventure, with steep ascents and rough terrain.
10. Sunset Walks along Riomaggiore Harbor
For a shorter, easy stroll with incredible photographic opportunities, explore the paths along Riomaggiore’s harbor.
- Highlights: Colorful houses, fishing boats, and reflections in the water.
- Photography tips: Sunset is ideal for capturing golden light on the pastel buildings. Long exposures work beautifully for water reflections.
- Things to do: Enjoy local seafood at waterfront restaurants. Evening walks here are magical and intimate.
From my own personal experience, even short walks like this can create memorable photos and lasting impressions of Cinque Terre.
Cinque Terre offers a unique blend of natural beauty, colorful architecture, and dramatic coastlines. Each trail has its own charm, whether you’re seeking quiet solitude, romantic paths, or iconic views. For photography lovers, these 10 coastal walks are not just hikes—they are an invitation to explore, capture, and fall in love with one of Italy’s most picturesque regions.
The best advice is to take your time, enjoy the local flavors, and look for perspectives that others might miss. From my overall experience, you’ll find that every turn along these trails offers something special to photograph and a memory to cherish.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.