How to Visit Cinque Terre for the First Time – 2 Easy Ways to Do It

“Some places are meant to be seen slowly. Cinque Terre is one of them — five little villages, one unforgettable coast.“

I still remember my first time seeing the colors of Cinque Terre from the sea — those pastel houses stacked like brushstrokes on the cliffs. I may have been born here, but no matter how many times I come back, it always takes my breath away.

Cinque Terre isn’t just one place; it’s five — five little fishing villages, each with its own rhythm, connected by winding roads, hiking paths, and a train line that hugs the sea. If you’re visiting from Tuscany or beyond, here are two easy and unforgettable ways to explore these villages for the first time.

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By Train – The Classic Way to Discover Cinque Terre

If you’re coming from Tuscany, your driver can take you straight to La Spezia, the gateway to Cinque Terre. It’s the biggest nearby town — and from here, you can catch the local train that connects all five villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare.

Trains run frequently, and a Cinque Terre Train Card can be purchased online or right at the station. The ride itself is short but stunning — tunnels open up to sudden sea views and glimpses of colorful harbors. You can hop on and off as you please, wander through each village, and maybe grab a seafood cone or gelato by the water.

When you’re done exploring, you can either return to La Spezia or have your driver meet you at the final village. It’s a flexible, stress-free way to see everything at your own pace.

Charming view of colorful Vernazza, a picturesque village in Cinque Terre, Italy with train station.

By Boat – The Most Scenic Way to See Cinque Terre

If you ask me, the most magical view of Cinque Terre is from the sea. Our boat partners in La Spezia offer connections between the villages, letting you glide along the coast and see the pastel towns rise from the cliffs.

It’s slower than the train, but that’s the beauty of it — the fresh breeze, the sound of waves, and that golden light that seems to make everything glow. You can hop off at different stops, take photos, swim, or simply enjoy the view with a glass of prosecco in hand.

A picturesque aerial view of Vernazza's colorful buildings and harbor along the Italian coastline.

My Tip for First-Time Visitors

Both options are beautiful — it just depends on what kind of traveler you are.
If you love the flexibility of exploring at your own pace, take the train.
If you’re here for the views and a touch of adventure, the boat is the way to go.
Either way, don’t rush it. Take your time between villages, stop for lunch with a view, and remember that Cinque Terre is best enjoyed slowly — one sip, one step, one sea breeze at a time.

Planning Your Trip from Tuscany or La Spezia?

We’ve designed some of our best-selling Cinque Terre tours around these routes — perfect for travelers visiting from Tuscany or nearby towns. Whether you prefer a private driver, a boat day along the coast, or a custom route through all five villages, you’ll find the perfect fit for your travel style.

View Our Cinque Terre Tours Here and start planning your 2026 escape to Italy’s most colorful coast.

At My Exclusive Italy, we’ve curated the best tours and local experiences so you can simply show up and enjoy.

Find your next adventure here: My Exclusive Italy