Cinque Terre is a landscape made for moving between viewpoints: five villages tucked into the Ligurian coast, steep vineyard terraces above them and the sea always close. Walking reveals how much work has shaped these hillsides, while the local train makes it easy to mix a trail with time in a village. One important change for current visits: the coastal route from Corniglia through Vernazza to Monterosso is closed pending geological checks.
Choose a trail that’s open
The park’s closure notice lists the Corniglia–Vernazza–Monterosso section as closed while geological checks are pending. Check the live trail network before choosing a route, since access can change.
The coastal paths climb through steep terraces above the sea, with stone steps and narrow sections that bring you close to the slope. Higher trails trade some of the shoreline for broad views over the villages and more climbing. When open, the path toward Volastra threads through vineyards and makes a rewarding way to see the working landscape behind the postcard views.
Pick the right Cinque Terre Card
The Trekking Card and Treno Card include different services. Compare the current card details with the trails and train journeys you want to take, and check whether your ticket includes trail access.
View in GoExploringMake a day of it
Choose an open trail between villages, then let the train shape the rest of your day. Walk a section while the air is cool, pause in the village where you finish, and take the train onward when you’re ready. That mix of effort and unhurried discovery is the pleasure of Cinque Terre on foot; you do not need to cross the entire coast to feel part of it.
Explore the trails on the map and see more routes in our Italy hiking guide.