Our full guide on the Common Mistakes To Avoid in Cinque Terre for your next visit to Italy.
Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Italian Riviera, is known for its stunning coastal views, charming villages, and vibrant culture.
However, there are common mistakes that travelers often make when visiting this picturesque destination. Here’s a guide to help you avoid these pitfalls and make the most of your trip to Cinque Terre.
Read here best Italian food, best Italian breakfast and the best Italia travel tips
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Common Mistakes To Avoid In Cinque Terre
1. Visiting Only One Village
Mistake: Staying in just one village and missing out on the unique charm of the other four.
Tip: Plan to visit all five villages (Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore). Each has its own distinct character and attractions.
2. Underestimating the Hiking Trails
Mistake: Not preparing adequately for the hiking trails, which can be challenging.
Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, carry water, and be prepared for steep climbs and rugged terrain. The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) is the most popular, but there are also other less crowded trails worth exploring.
3. Not Booking Accommodations in Advance
Mistake: Assuming you can find accommodations upon arrival, especially during peak season.
Tip: Book your accommodations well in advance. Cinque Terre is a popular destination, and places fill up quickly, particularly in summer.
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4. Ignoring Weather Condition
Mistake: Not checking the weather forecast and getting caught in unexpected conditions.
Tip: Check the weather forecast regularly, especially if you plan to hike. Trails can become slippery and dangerous in the rain.
5. Traveling by Car
Mistake: Trying to explore Cinque Terre by car, which is inconvenient and impractical.
Tip: Use the Cinque Terre Card for unlimited train travel between the villages. The villages are best explored on foot and by train.
6. Not Buying the Cinque Terre Card
Mistake: Missing out on the benefits of the Cinque Terre Card, such as unlimited train travel and access to hiking trails.
Tip: Purchase the Cinque Terre Card, which offers unlimited train rides between the villages, access to the hiking trails, and free Wi-Fi in the park.
7. Skipping Corniglia
Mistake: Overlooking Corniglia because it’s the only village not directly on the coast and requires a climb.
Tip: Visit Corniglia for its unique charm and quieter atmosphere. The climb up the Lardarina staircase (377 steps) is worth the effort.
8. Overpacking for Day Trips
Mistake: Carrying too much while exploring, which can be cumbersome on the trails and trains.
Tip: Pack light for day trips. Bring only essentials like water, a camera, sunscreen, and a light jacket.
9. Eating Only in Tourist Areas
Mistake: Dining only at the most obvious tourist spots and missing out on local culinary gems.
Tip: Venture away from the main tourist areas to find authentic, local restaurants. Try regional specialties like pesto, focaccia, and fresh seafood.
10. Not Respecting Local Etiquette
Mistake: Ignoring local customs and etiquette, such as dress codes in churches or being loud in residential areas.
Tip: Respect local customs. Dress modestly when visiting churches and keep noise levels down, especially in the evening.
11. Overlooking the Beaches
Mistake: Not taking advantage of the beautiful beaches in Monterosso al Mare, the only village with extensive sandy beaches.
Tip: Spend some time relaxing on Monterosso’s beaches. They’re perfect for a refreshing swim and sunbathing.
12. Ignoring Trail Conditions and Closures
Mistake: Assuming all trails are open without checking for closures or conditions.
Tip: Check for trail conditions and closures at the visitor centers or online. Some trails may be closed for maintenance or due to weather conditions.
13. Traveling Only During Peak Season
Mistake: Visiting only during peak season (June to August), which can be crowded and expensive.
Tip: Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are thinner.
14. Not Bringing Cash
Mistake: Assuming everywhere accepts credit cards and not carrying enough cash.
Tip: Bring sufficient cash as some small shops, cafes, and restaurants may only accept cash.
15. Overlooking the Sunset Views
Mistake: Not planning to watch the sunset, which offers stunning views in each village.
Tip: Take time to watch the sunset. Some of the best spots include the harbor in Vernazza and the promenade in Manarola.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.
Pierpaolo Paradisi
Sunday 9th of March 2025
Finally, a post that addresses the topic from a different perspective: instead of discussing what should be done, it suggests what should not be done.
However, I note an inaccuracy: in Italy, accepting electronic payments is mandatory even for minimal amounts, such as a coffee.
It is important to highlight that a notable oversight is the failure to recognize the extraordinary beauty of Vernazza's hamlets such as Prevo or San Bernardino.
Prevo is a small hamlet situated in the heart of Cinque Terre National Park, along the renowned Blue Path (Sentiero Azzurro), positioned 1.5 kilometers from Corniglia and 1.3 kilometers from Vernazza.
Perched at an impressive altitude of 208 meters above sea level, it provides an exceptional perspective from which to appreciate the breathtaking landscapes of Corniglia and Manarola.
Established in the early sixteenth century, Prevo was originally inhabited by shepherd families who migrated from the inland mountains to winter with their livestock.
On particularly clear days, Prevo's elevated location allows for visibility of distant islands, including Isola d'Elba, Gorgona, Capraia, and Cap Corse (located in France).
The unique panorama offered by Prevo is unmatched by other villages. Its elevation of 208 meters grants visitors and residents alike the opportunity to enjoy expansive views that stretch far beyond the immediate landscape, revealing intricate details of the terrain below.
In contrast, other villages, with the exception of Corniglia, which is situated at 90 meters, are located directly along the coastline. While these coastal areas possess their own allure, their proximity to the sea limits their vistas to the shoreline and ocean, lacking the expansive depth afforded by higher elevations.
The altitude of Prevo not only enhances its visual appeal but also cultivates a sense of peace and a deeper connection to nature, which is often absent in the more crowded coastal regions.
I reside in Prevo, which may appear to present a conflict of interest; however, I assure you that this is not the case. Prevo is truly the hidden gem of the Cinque Terre, and only those fortunate enough to have stayed there can attest to its charm.
A simple search for "Prevo, The heart of Cinque Terre" on Google will reveal that it is indeed possible to experience the utmost relaxation in the Cinque Terre, away from the crowds of overtourism.