Cinque Terre: Sea Views, Squid Ink, and Sweet Serenity
Consisting of five enchanting villages along the rugged Ligurian coastline, Cinque Terre is a slice of paradise that seems plucked from a dream. Cinque Terre is one of those rare places that looks exactly like the postcards—but feels even better in person. With pastel-colored villages tucked into cliffs and sparkling blue waters calling your name at every turn, it’s no wonder this slice of the Ligurian coast captured my heart.
4/1/20252 min read
Place: Cinque Terre, Italy
🛥️ Boat Tour Bliss & Stunning Shores
Instead of hiking between the villages, I took a boat tour—and honestly, viewing Cinque Terre from the water was nothing short of magical. The colorful towns rising from the cliffs looked like sugar-frosted fairy tale villages. There's something so peaceful about bobbing on the sea as you drift past Vernazza, Manarola, and beyond, soaking it all in without breaking a sweat.
🏖️ Swimming in Monterosso
I couldn’t resist the pull of Monterosso’s beach—it’s the only village with a long, sandy stretch perfect for sunbathing and swimming. I dove straight into the clear turquoise water and instantly felt like a local enjoying a lazy afternoon. Salt in my hair, sun on my skin, and not a care in the world.
🍝 Culinary Adventure: Black Squid Pasta
Italy is a playground for foodies, but trying black squid ink pasta was a next-level experience. It was rich, bold, and surprisingly delicious—something I’d always wanted to try, and I’m so glad I did it here, steps away from the sea. It felt daring and decadent in the best way.
🌄 Rocche di Sant'Anna Hike
I did squeeze in one scenic hike and it was worth every uphill moment: Rocche di Sant'Anna offered gorgeous panoramic photo ops that left me speechless. The vista of La Spezia and the rolling coastline was the kind of view that reminds you why you travel.
🏡 Staying in La Spezia
While not one of the five Cinque Terre villages, La Spezia was the perfect home base. It’s a charming port town with more space, affordable options, and direct access to the train line that zips you from village to village. Plus, it gave me the chance to experience another layer of Ligurian life.
🌟 Highlights by Village
Vernazza's Harbor: Watching the boats float in Vernazza’s picturesque harbor was as dreamy as it sounds. If you climb to the Doria Castle, you’re rewarded with a panoramic view of the sea that might just make your camera weep.
Manarola at Sunset: This village swept me off my feet. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the buildings glowed like a painting. It’s romantic, peaceful, and photogenic from every angle.
Riomaggiore’s Marina: I loved strolling through the narrow streets, gelato in hand, as sea breezes danced through the colorful alleys.
🍷 Where to Eat
Ristorante Miky (Monterosso): A must for seafood lovers—elegant but cozy.
Trattoria La Scogliera (Vernazza): Their pesto pasta paired with a chilled white wine? Heaven.
Nessun Dorma (Manarola): This is the place for bruschetta with a view that’ll have your followers asking, “Where is that?!”
🛍️ Where to Shop
Enoteca Internazionale (Monterosso): For local wines that capture the spirit of the coast.
Ceramiche Artistiche (Corniglia): I couldn’t resist a hand-painted dish to bring home a slice of Italian artistry.
Limoncello Shops: Bright, citrusy, and made right here—it’s sunshine in a bottle.
🛏️ Where to Stay
La Torretta Lodge (Manarola): Romantic with jaw-dropping views.
Hotel Pasquale (Monterosso): Steps from the beach with the warmest hospitality.
Novecento Boutique Hotel (La Spezia): My base—full of charm, history, and easy train access.
💌 Final Thoughts
Cinque Terre is more than its postcard looks—it’s about feeling the sea breeze in your hair, savoring new flavors, and discovering joy in the quiet and colorful corners of each village. Whether you hike every trail or take to the waves like I did, this coast is pure magic from every angle.