Cinque Terre

The largest and most popular of the five towns, Monterosso al Mare has a wide, sandy beach and a lively atmosphere. The town is split into two sections: the old town, with narrow streets and colourful houses, and the new town, which has more modern amenities. Monterosso al Mare is known for its seafood restaurants and its anchovies, which are a local specialty.

Considered by many to be the most picturesque of the five towns, Vernazza has a small harbour surrounded by colourful houses and a castle perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea. The town is home to several seafood restaurants and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. Vernazza is also known for its wine - the local grape, called Bosco, produces a sweet white wine that is unique to the region.

The only town that is not directly on the coast, Corniglia is perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. To reach the town, visitors must climb a long staircase from the train station. Once there, you'll find narrow streets, small shops, and a quiet, laid-back atmosphere. Corniglia is known for its views - from the town, you can see all the way down the coast to the other four towns of Cinque Terre.

With its brightly coloured houses perched on a rocky cliff above the sea, Manarola is one of the most recognizable towns in Cinque Terre. The town is known for its wine, especially its Sciacchetrà dessert wine, and its seafood dishes. Manarola is also home to the Lover's Walk, a path that winds along the cliffs overlooking the sea and offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

The easternmost town of Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is home to a small harbour, colourful houses, and a castle that offers panoramic views of the town and the sea. Riomaggiore is known for its wine and its seafood, and it's a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing. The town is also home to the Via dell'Amore, or "Lover's Lane," a short path that leads to Manarola and offers beautiful views of the sea.