Cinque Terre's Blue Trail: Hiking Between Five Coastal Villages Suspended Above the Sea
The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) connects five breathtakingly beautiful communities clinging to cliffsides along the Italian Riviera: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. This 12-kilometer coastal trail provides one of Europe's most stunning treks, with terraced vineyards cascading into azure Mediterranean waves and mediaeval villages appearing unexpectedly around each turn like colourful apparitions.
Practical Guide
The entire walk takes 5-7 hours, but most visitors do it in chunks taking trains between settlements. Purchase the Cinque Terre Card (a €7.50 day pass that includes trail access and unlimited train travel). The Vernazza-Monterosso portion (2 hours) has the most magnificent coastal vistas while remaining moderately tough. Corniglia-Manarola allows for simpler strolling among vineyards. The famed Manarola-Riomaggiore stretch (Via dell'Amore) is still blocked owing to landslip damage, however it may reopen partially in 2026.
Best strategies
Begin early (7:00–8:00) to avoid crowds and hot heat. Hike north-south (Monterosso to Riomaggiore) to gain a downhill edge and better vistas. Bring water—trail fountains are unreliable—and wear appropriate hiking shoes; flip-flops result in countless rescue calls each year. Stay overnight in a lesser village (Corniglia or Manarola) rather than the renowned Monterosso to experience an authentic vibe after day-trippers have left.
Insider Tips
Manarola's family-run cantinas serve sciacchetrà, a native sweet wine made from cliff-side vineyards. Visit during the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October), when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are low. Swimming is available in Monterosso's beach and Riomaggiore's rocky harbour; carry water shoes for comfort.
