TRAIN

The best way to get around the Five Villages is by train. In just a few minutes, you can reach your destination without the hassle of driving or finding parking. Be sure to get the Cinque Terre Treno MS Card, which lets you travel between the villages as much as you want along the Levanto – Cinque Terre – La Spezia Centrale line. You can hop on and off trains without needing a new ticket each time. This card also gives you access to the scenic trails along the coast that connect the villages.
AIRPORT
The closest airport to Cinque Terre is Pisa Galileo Galilei, about 80 km away. Once you arrive, take the Pisa Mover, a shuttle train that connects the airport to Pisa Centrale Station in about 5 minutes. It runs daily from 6:00 a.m. to midnight, every 5-8 minutes, and costs about 5 euros.
From Pisa Centrale, hop on a regional train to La Spezia Centrale — it takes about an hour, with frequent trains throughout the day. Tickets can be purchased at counters, vending machines, or online through Trenitalia. From La Spezia Centrale, take the Cinque Terre Express, which connects the five villages (Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso) with trains every 15-20 minutes. Remember to validate any paper tickets at the green machines in the station before boarding. Tickets bought online don’t need validation.
FERRY OR PRIVATE BOAT?
Getting around Cinque Terre by ferry or private boat depends on your budget and travel style. The ferry is a fun alternative to the train, while a private boat is ideal if you want some exclusive time with your partner. Here’s some help to decide:
Public Ferry
• Affordable and Scenic: Ferries let you enjoy views of the villages from the sea without breaking the bank, and the scenery is incredible.
• Fixed Schedule: Great for an organized day out, but you’ll need to stick to the set times, which can change.
• Shared with Tourists: Ferries can get crowded in high season, so it’s not super private. If sharing the experience doesn’t bother you, it’s a fun way to meet other travelers.
• Multiple Stops: With a day ticket, you can hop on and off at various villages (except Corniglia, which doesn’t have a port) — perfect for a full day tour!
Private Boat
• Complete Freedom: With a private boat, you set the schedule, decide how long to stay in each spot, and can even snorkel or swim along the coast.
• Exclusive Experience: Perfect if you want something special, like a honeymoon or romantic getaway.
• Hidden Coves: You can reach spots that are inaccessible by public ferry, ideal if you’re looking for a bit of adventure.
• More Expensive: Private boats cost more, but they offer a unique and comfortable experience.
CAR
Traveling by car in Cinque Terre is discouraged for several reasons:
1. Narrow, Winding Roads: The villages are connected by steep, narrow roads, which are challenging, especially for those unaccustomed to mountain driving. Sharp curves and steep inclines make it tough.
2. Limited Parking: Each village has very few parking spots, and in peak season, they fill up quickly. Many parking areas are far from the village centers, so you’ll likely still need to walk or take a bus.
3. Heavy Traffic: During the tourist season, the roads can get very congested, slowing travel and making driving stressful.
4. Restricted Village Centers: Many of the village centers are pedestrian-only or have traffic restrictions to preserve the natural beauty and charm of the area. This means you can’t drive into most of the main areas.
Parking outside the villages and using public transportation is the easiest and most relaxing way to visit Cinque Terre.
WHERE TO PARK IN CINQUE TERRE
For couples planning a honeymoon road trip through Italy and arriving by car, here are some parking options:
1. Park in La Spezia: La Spezia is well-connected to Cinque Terre by frequent trains. Parking here lets you avoid narrow village roads. Just keep in mind that spaces may be limited during peak season.
• Free Parking: Piazza d’Armi offers free parking about 700 meters from La Spezia Centrale train station, accessible via a convenient pedestrian tunnel.
• Paid Parking: The “Park Centro Stazione” is the most convenient option, located directly under the train station for easy access to trains to Cinque Terre and beyond.
2. Park in Levanto: Levanto is another well-connected town near Cinque Terre.
• Near the train station and beach: Most parking here is paid, with rates between €0.60 and €2 per hour. 8-, 24-, and 36-hour passes are available.
3. Parking in Individual Villages: If you want to park closer to the villages, here are some options:
MONTEROSSO
• Fegina Parking: About 300 spaces along Fegina Beach. Rate: €2.50/hour, max €25/day.
• Loreto Parking (Historic Center): About 100 spaces above the old town. Rate: €2.50/hour, max €25/day.
VERNAZZA
• Vernassoa Parking: About 90 spaces, 1 km from the village. Rate: €2/hour, max €15/day, includes shuttle service.
CORNIGLIA
• Corniglia Parking: About 60 spaces, 500 meters from the village. Rate: €2.50/hour.
MANAROLA:
• Village Entrance Parking: About 80 spaces, 700 meters from the sea. Rate: €2.50/hour, max €20/day.
RIOMAGGIORE
• Rio Park: About 60 spaces, at the village entrance. Rate: €3.50/hour, max €35/day.
Useful Tips:
• Reservations: Where possible, reserve parking in advance, especially in high season.
• Public Transportation: After parking, use trains or ferries to explore the villages. The Cinque Terre Express provides frequent connections between La Spezia and Levanto, stopping in all villages.
TAXI
Getting around by taxi in Cinque Terre is possible but limited, and often requires advance booking. Unlike in other places, you won’t find taxis waiting at train stations or on the streets.
Available Taxi Services:
MONTEROSSO
• Speedy Taxi: Tel. +39 335 6165842
• Taxi Driver Danilo: Tel. +39 335 6165845
• Amico Taxi: Tel. +39 335 6280933
VERNAZZA
• Cinque Terre Travel NCC: Tel. +39 339 335 6833
MANAROLA AND RIOMAGGIORE:
• Cinque Terre Transfer: Tel. +39 340 356 5268
Useful Tips:
• Book in Advance: Due to limited availability, it’s best to book taxis ahead of time, especially for transfers from airports, distant train stations, or for guided tours.
• Rates: Always ask about fares before confirming your booking, as costs vary by distance and service type.
Would you like to capture beautiful memories of your honeymoon in Cinque Terre?
Booking and info : lovviamemories@gmail.com
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