Cinque Terre is a dream destination for most travellers. A collection of cliff-top villages, Cinque Terre has scenic beaches, glistening azure waters, fresh seafood, and some of the most stunning views in Italy.
But there are five distinct villages and so many accommodations to choose from. Which is why we put together this guide for where to stay in Cinque Terre.
This article is designed with one thing in mind – to help YOU find the best village in Cinque Terre for YOUR travel needs.
So whether you’re planning a romantic destination, a family vacation, or are simply looking for a cheap place to rest your head, our guide will help you find the best village to fit your needs.
Let’s get right to it – here are our recommendations for where to stay in Cinque Terre, Italy.
Backpacking Italy? Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Cinque Terre.
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Best Apartment in Cinque Terre: Ca’ de Baran Apartments
This excellent apartment is located in Manarola. It has two rental accommodations with comfortable beds, private bathrooms and charming amenities. The property is located a short walk from the city centre where you can enjoy great restaurants, shops and views. It’s also very close to the sandy beach and seashore.
Best Hotel in Cinque Terre: Affittacamere Monterosso 5 Terre Monterosso al Mare
Hotels in Cinque Terre come in shapes and sizes. Affittacamere Monterosso makes a great base for exploring Cinque Terre. It is close to top tourist attractions, and there are a great variety of shopping, dining and nightlife options at its doorstep. This hotel provides comfortable and clean rooms, delicious food and a fantastic location.
Best Airbnb in Cinque Terre: Self contained spot overlooking the Med!
This authentic stone-clad and low timber beamed villa overlooking the Med is a great way to sample life in Cinque Terre. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the town center if you start to get bored with the atmosphere on your private balcony and fancy something a little more bombastic.
Self contained spot overlooking the Med! is one of our favourites in Cinque Terre but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Vernazza
Vernazza is one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. Perched atop a rugged coast, this colourful town pops against Cinque Terre’s harsh landscape. It’s a small village bursting with history and culture, and traditional Italian charm and appeal.
Manarola
They’re aren’t really cheap places to stay in Cinque Terre. Still, Manarola is the second smallest town in Cinque Terre. It sits high above the sea and is bordered by a lush terraced landscape covered in lemon and olive trees as well as snaking grapevines.
Riomaggiore
Located at the south end of Cinque Terre in Riomaggiore. The largest of the five cities, Riomaggiore is best-known for its colourful houses that sit nestled between rugged hills and alongside glorious beaches. Possibly the best town in Cinque Terre to stay in.
Corniglia
Corniglia is a tiny town that is often overlooked by travellers. It sits between Vernazza and Riomaggiore, and most tourists tend to flock to one of these largest centres.
Monterosso
Sitting at the northern end of Cinque Terre is Monterosso al Mare. A fantastic option for families with small children, Monterosso can be easily accessed on foot or by car.
Cinque Terre is a postcard. It’s a collection of enchanting villages that sit perched atop cliffs overlooking the Italian Riviera. Colourful buildings pop against the lush green landscapes and the blue waters giving this area a fantastical fairy-tale-come-to-life feel.
The region is comprised of five villages spread out over an area of 45 square kilometres, and each village has its own distinct character and charm.
This guide not only provides suggestions on where to stay, but how to spend your time in Cinque Terre as well.
Monterosso is the northernmost town of Cinque Terre. It’s incredibly popular with travellers thanks to its stunning sandy beach, delicious restaurants, and historic landmarks and attractions. It’s also one of the few towns that can be accessed by car.
Head south from here and you’ll arrive in Vernazza. The most picturesque town in the region, Vernazza is comprised of colourful homes that cling to the cliff side. It has a lovely small harbour, an ancient castle, and plenty of shops to browse.
Corniglia is a village that sits at the centre of Cinque Terre. It’s perch high above the sea on a peninsula and it’s one of the few places in Cinque Terre where you can escape the tourist crowd.
Manarola is a haven for hikers, trekkers and travellers on a budget. This colourful small village enjoys a wealth of outdoor activities as well as meandering streets and stunning views.
And finally, Riomaggiore is the southernmost town of Cinque Terre. A small but vibrant village, Riomaggiore is best known for its colourful architecture, rugged hills, and scenic beaches.
Still not sure where to stay in Cinque Terre? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Cinque Terre’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at Cinque Terre’s 5 villages to stay in organized by interest. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to pick the one that’s right for you.
1. Vernazza – Best Place to Stay in Cinque Terre the First Time
Vernazza is one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. Perched atop a rugged coast, this colourful town pops against Cinque Terre’s harsh landscape. It’s a small village bursting with history and culture, and traditional Italian charm and appeal. This is why Vernazza is our pick for where to stay in Cinque Terre if you’re visiting for the first time.
There’s plenty of things to see and do in Vernazza, including meandering alongside thousand-year-old buildings, lounging at the beach and dining on fresh seafood. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture or a fearless foodie, you’ll love spending time exploring Vernazza. Let’s run over the best places to stay in Vernazza shall we…?
Things to See and Do in Vernazza
- Bask in the sun at one of Vernazza’s two beaches.
- Climb the hill to Castello Doria and enjoy panoramic vistas of Vernazza.
- Cool down with a refreshing gelato.
- Dine on fresh and delicious seafood at Trattoria Gianni Franzi.
- Drink Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine.
- Explore the Sanctuary of Our Lady Regio.
- Hike the Sentiero Vernazza a Corniglia trail and enjoy spectacular views of the landscape and sea.
- Indulge in pansotti, a ravioli stuffed with greens and soft cheese, and topped with a walnut sauce.
- Marvel at the Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia.
- Take a boat ride around Cinque Terre.
Best Apartment in Vernazza: Affittacamere Alessandro Carro
This charming apartment offers spacious rooms and a cosy atmosphere to call home. It has everything two people could possibly need for a comfortable stay, including a living room and bathroom. You’ll have access to a fridge, kettle and a hairdryer. It also boasts stunning views and enjoys relaxing sea breezes.
Best Bed and Breakfast in Vernazza: Agriturismo Costa di Campo
Bright, bold and conveniently located – it’s no wonder we love this B&B! It has three stylish rooms with great amenities. There’s also free wifi, a charming garden and a terrace perfect for enjoying the afternoon sun. There’s a vast array of shopping, dining and hiking options nearby.
Best Airbnb in Vernazza: Self contained spot overlooking the Med!
This authentic stone-clad and low timber beamed villa overlooking the Med is a great way to sample life in Cinque Terre. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the town center if you start to get bored with the atmosphere on your private balcony and fancy something a little more bombastic.
Self contained spot overlooking the Med! is one of our favourites in Cinque Terre but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Vernazza: Affittacamere Tonino Basso
This fantastic hotel is our pick for where to stay in Vernazza and is a gem amongst Cinque Terre hotels. Set a short distance from the village centre, this hotel is a great base for exploring the region and getting back to nature. You’ll enjoy clean rooms, free internet and essential amenities. There’s also an in-house restaurant that offers superb meals.
Affittacamere Tonino Basso is one of our favourites in Cinque Terre but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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Learn More Now!2. Manarola – Where to stay in Cinque Terre on a budget
Manarola is the second smallest town in Cinque Terre. It sits high above the sea and is bordered by a lush terraced landscape covered in lemon and olive trees as well as snaking grapevines.
Often overlooked by travellers, this charming village boasts some of the most incredible views of the region. so you won’t need to worry about anyone blocking your view as you snap a pic for the ‘gram. As it is often overlooked, this can be the best pick for visiting in high season.
Manarola is also a great place to stay if you’re travelling on a budget. Here you’l find some of the most affordable guesthouses and hostels in Cinque Terre.
Love to eat? Manarola is packed with charming cafes and rustic bistros that serve a variety of traditional local dishes that will make your mouth water.
Things to See and Do in Manarola
- Admire the Church of San Lorenz.
- Climb to the Borgo Storico di Manarola for breathtaking views.
- Eat at Trattoria Dal Billy where you’ll enjoy good wine and unparalleled views.
- Enjoy a vast array of local wines at Nessun Dorma Cinque Terre.
- Grab a savoury snack at K&Pris Pizzeria Pinseria.
- Lace up your boots and hike one of the many trails that pass through Manarola.
- Marvel at the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora della Salute.
- Sample delicious flavours at Gelatreia Soretteria 5 Terre.
- Tasty tradition Italian fare at Pizzeria & Focacceria La Cambusa.
- Visiting in December? Don’t miss the change to see the world’s biggest lighted Nativity.
Best Airbnb in Manarola: Awesome renovation at a bargain price
No one under any illusions that (most of) the Mediterranean is an IDEAL local for the budget backpacker, and Cinque Terre is no exception, but it has its moment. Get some friends together and snatch up this unique renovation at a bargain price, freeing up some much-needed cash for local wines and charcuterie!
Best Apartment in Manarola: Ca’ de Baran Apartments
This excellent apartment has two rental accommodations with comfortable beds, private bathrooms and charming amenities. The property is located a short walk from the city centre where you can enjoy great restaurants, shops and views. This is our pick for where to stay in Manarola.
Best Guesthouse in Manarola: Arpaiu – Odeyo Sas
Comprised of five rooms, this cosy and charming hotel makes for a fantastic home away from home in Cinque Terre. It is ideally located for hiking, relaxing, exploring and wandering. This property offers a variety of features, including free wifi and a sun-soaked deck.
Best Guesthouse in Manarola: La Linea D’Acqua
La Linea D’Acqua is a delightful guesthouse located in Manarola. It has three well-equipped rooms with a variety of great amenities. With Cinque Terre just steps away, this property is an ideal base for travellers looking to explore the region, get back to nature, or simply enjoy the iconic views.
3. Riomaggiore – Best area to stay in Cinque Terre for nightlife
Located at the south end of Cinque Terre in Riomaggiore. The largest of the five cities, Riomaggiore is best-known for its colourful houses that sit nestled between rugged hills and alongside glorious beaches. Here you can enjoy a rainbow of architectural appeal as you explore this charming and delightful, postcard-perfect town
Riomaggiore is also where you’ll find the best nightlife in Cinque Terre. Although it’s more on the relaxed side thank other Italian cities, here you can enjoy a glass of local wine or an Aperol spritz as you watch an unforgettable sunset over the Italian Riviera.
Also, a great place to stay if you love to hike, Riomaggiore offers easy access to some of Cinque Terre’s most famous and beautiful paths. Let’s introduce some fine places to stay in Riomaggiore.
Things to See and Do in Riomaggiore
- Admire the hand-carved marble at the Church of San Giovanni Battista.
- Eat excellent seafood at Rio Bistrot.
- Enjoy a wine tasting at Terra di Bargon.
- Explore the Castello di Riomaggiore.
- Grab a cone of seafood on the go from Il Pescato Cucinato.
- Hike the Via dell’Amore.
- Sip drinks and enjoy snacks at Bar il Giardino.
- Spend a chill night at Vertical Bar Riomaggiore.
- Stand at the centre of bustling Piazza Vignaiolo.
- Taste local wins at Cantina 5 Terre.
- Visit the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero.
- Watch the sunset with a glass of wine at Fuori Rotta.
Best Airbnb in Riomaggiore: Private cheteau in a killer spot
Soak up the Med vibes and indulge yourself with this self-contained villa. With stunning views and plenty of space it’s ideal for groups who are planning on spending their time away making the most of each others company. It’s relatively isolated from neighbours for that much-needed privacy, and there’s a good selection of awesome bistros and wine bars close by.
Best Apartment in Riomaggiore: Gigi
This bright and modern room is located right at the heart of historic Riomaggiore. It has a private bathroom, air conditioning, satellite TV and a small kitchen. The property is close to the beach, the Via dell’Amore, and is a short walk to the train station. You won’t find a better budget base in this village.
Best Guesthouse in Riomaggiore: Affittacamere Le Giare
Affittacamere le Giare gets our vote for where to stay in Riomaggiore thanks to its wonderful views and great location. This guesthouse is ideally set in the city and is a short distance to trails, restaurants, shops and beaches. It is comprised of four modern rooms with traditional décor and essential amenities.
Best Hotel in Riomaggiore: Hotel Villa Argentina Riomaggiore
This stylish hotel provides a scenic retreat in Riomaggiore. It has free wifi and a relaxing terrace that offers stunning views. Rooms are comfortable and cosy, and each is outfitted with a flat-screen TV and a minibar. You’ll also enjoy private facilities, a small business area, and wonderful staff.
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Buy an eSIM!4. Corniglia – Coolest place to stay in Cinque Terre
Corniglia is a tiny town that is often overlooked by travellers. It sits between Vernazza and Riomaggiore, and most tourists tend to flock to one of these largest centres. Because of this, Corniglia is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful atmosphere free from the throngs of tourists, which is why it gets our vote as the coolest town in Cinque Terre.
Set on a small peninsula, Corniglia is the only one of Cinque Terre’s five towns not adjacent to the sea. Thanks to its unique location, visitors to Corniglia can enjoy sweeping views of the area, as well as incredible vistas of Cinque Terre’s main towns. For photographers and shutterbugs, a stay in Corniglia is a must.
Things to See and Do in Corniglia
- Climb the 381 steps up Scalinata Lardarina
- Dine on tapas and more at Terra Rossa.
- Eat fresh and delicious bruschetta at Pan e Vin Bar.
- Enjoy stunning views and freshly squeeze juices at Bar Terza Terra.
- Hike the trail to Volastra, enjoying the panoramic vistas as you go.
- Lounge at low tide at Siaggione beach.
- Marvel at Chiesa di San Pietro, an elegant gothic church dating back to the 14th-century.
- Reward yourself after a hike at Alberto Gelateria.
- Snap iconic and unforgettable photos from the Corniglia viewpoint.
- Sneak away to secret Guvano beach.
- Visit peaceful Oratorio dei Disciplinati di Santa Caterina.
Best Airbnb in Corniglia: Adorable apartment surrounded by history
Basque in the Cinque Terre’s unique atmosphere and captivating aura as you sit in your bay balcony, drinking local wine and listening to the waves crashing on the cliffs. Do all of that from your living room with this charming flat tucked away down ancient cobbled lanes.
Best Hotel in Corniglia: Il Timone Vernazza
Il Timone Vernazza is our top choice for where to stay in Corniglia. This guesthouse is well-positioned in Cinque Terre with trails, shops, eateries and bars just a short distance away. It boasts two comfortable and clean rooms with fantastic features. You’ll feel right at home at this charming guesthouse – one of the friendliest Cinque Terre hotels.
Best Guesthouse in Corniglia: Daa Maduneta
This charming guesthouse is a great base for hikers, trekkers and travellers looking to get back to nature. It is ideally located for exploring Cinque Terre on foot and provides easy access to the national park. It has six cosy rooms with a vast array of features.
Best Budget Option in Corniglia: Corniglia Dreams
This property is centrally located in Corniglia. It just steps away from Cinque Terre and is well positioned for exploring the region. This guesthouse provides two comfortable rooms with a range of amenities. They also have complimentary wifi, a terrace and luggage storage.
5. Monterosso – Best neighbourhood in Cinque Terre for families
If you are wondering what town to stay in Cinque Terre with your DNA tribe, here is the answer! Now for the last of the Cinque Terre Villages. Monterosso al Mare. A fantastic option for families with small children, Monterosso can be easily accessed on foot or by car.
The gateway to the Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre, Monterosso is a playground for outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts. From your base in the village, you can head out onto the trails and enjoy the stunning surroundings of this postcard-perfect region.
Looking to relax while in Italy? Grab a towel and head to one of Monterosso’s scenic beaches. Here you can bask in the sunshine, lounge on the sand, or play in the shimmer blue waters of the Italian Riviera.
Things to See and Do in Monterosso
- Enjoy a moment of calm at the Church of San Francesco.
- Explore the historic centre of Monterosso.
- Find Il Gigante, a statue of Neptune carved into the rocks.
- Grab a slice hot and fresh focaccia at Il Massimo della Focaccia.
- Hike the trails that connect all five villages in the Parco Nazionale Cinque Terra.
- Run, jump, splash and play at Spiaggia di Fegina.
- Sample incredible calamari at Il Bocconcino.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Wonderland Bakery.
- See the black and white striped Church of San Giovanni Battista.
- Visit the medieval Aurora Tower.
Best Guest House in Monterosso: Affittacamere Monterosso 5 Terre Monterosso al Mare
Affittacamere Monterosso makes a great base for exploring Cinque Terre. It is within close proximity to top tourist attractions, and there are a great variety of shopping, dining and nightlife options at its doorstep. This hotel is our number one choice for where to stay in Monterosso.
Best Guest House in Monterosso: Albergo Al Carugio
This guesthouse has nine rooms with free wifi. The property is just a few minutes from the village and the beach. Guests can enjoy a variety of features, including a delicious in-house restaurant as well as plenty of eateries and cafes nearby. This is our pick for where to stay in Monterosso.
Best Airbnb in Monterosso: Family apartment with beach access
If you’re looking to treat the entire family to some sun, sea, and waves, you could do a lot worse than this. It’s in an ideal location for both the beach and the bars. The kitchens decked out with everything you need to whip some excellent home cooking if you’re looking to save on restaurant costs.
Family apartment with beach access is one of our favourites in Cinque Terre but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Bed and Breakfast in Monterosso: La Sirene
La Sirene is located in charming Monterosso. It offers clean and reasonably priced rooms just steps from the beach. It is well-situated for exploring the village and comes complete with a variety of features and amenities. You’ll also enjoy breathtaking views and incredible sunsets. La Sirene is amongst the best places to stay Cinque Terre if you want to be near the beach.
La Sirene is one of our favourites in Cinque Terre but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Cinque Terre
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Cinque Terre and where to stay.
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Final Thoughts on Staying in Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and iconic places in Italy. It’s lush landscapes and rugged hillsides are punctuated with colourful village bursting with charm. From hiking trails and scenic views to delicious restaurants and historic landmarks, Cinque Terre is packed with interesting, exciting and exquisite things to see and do.
In this guide, we’ve broken down the five best villages in Cinque Terre by interest and budget. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here is a quick recap of our favourite accommodations.
Ca’ de Baran Apartments in Manarola is our favourite budget option with comfortable beds, private bathrooms and a fantastic central location.
Another option is the Affittacamere Monterosso 5 Terre Monterosso al Mare. Close to tourist attractions and fantastic hiking trails, this guesthouse is a convenient base and one of the best value Cinque Terre hotels.
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