The Blue Trail: A Hiking Guide to Cinque Terre, Italy

Tap to Read ➤ Ketki Dongare

The region of 'The Italian Riviera' holds a great deal of popularity when it comes to tourists. Cinque Terre and its five towns, nestled on top of the Italian Riviera are best explored by hiking!

Cinque Terre's iconic 'Blue Trail' offers scenic coastal views and passes through all five towns! Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video.

Complete this 11 km trail, along its adventurous routes and rewarding views in about 5 hours. Linger on in the towns at your own pace and enjoy the local heritage at its best. The Blue Trail Hike Distance

Cinque Terre's towns: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mar (south to north). Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Hiking Trail Towns

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Pastel buildings perched on rocky terrain, surrounded by blue waters, unify Cinque Terre's towns.

Experience Cinque Terre's romance: pastel buildings glowing in sunset, sea harbors afloat. Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Town: Riomaggiore

Famous for grapevines hugging the village and Sciacchetrà wine, this town is a picturesque gem! Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Town: Manarola

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Town: Corniglia Tranquil middle-town of Cinque Terre, atop a hill amidst serene vineyards.

Quaint Cinque Terre town, nestled by a small harbor, with a bell tower overlooking the sea. Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Town: Vernazza

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Largest Cinque Terre town, boasting lemon and olive trees, a proper beach, and water sports activities. Town: Monterosso al Mare

Begin your hike from Riomaggiore to Monterosso or vice versa for endless adventure. Note: Difficulty varies. Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Routes

Whilst hiking, if you wish to skip a trial or two, there is always an option of boarding a train. The views, however, remain unchanged. Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Alternative Options

Begin your trail with the ‘Lover’s Lane’. On the easiest 1.5 km of the trail, the mountain views and Riomaggiore coastline are your partners in this journey. Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Riomaggiore to Manarola:

Comparatively easy, but the steep sections may be a little adventurous for beginners. This 3 km stretch is full of gardens and sea views. Manarola to Corniglia:

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Rated as moderately difficult, check in for a break on the terraces serving drinks and snack along the route. 3 km are sure to go by, with the lush greenery and coastal views. Corniglia to Vernazza:

Down to the last 3.5 km stretch of trail, this is the most difficult one. But the panoramic view of the five Cinque Terre towns, once you reach Monterosso, is your reward! Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Vernazza to Monterosso:

Once in Monterosso al Mare, head straight down to the beach and catch your breath with a nice swim in the blue waters. Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video.