Cinque Terre is enchanting in September as well!
In case you didn’t go on summer vacation or just looking for places to spend some days out of town in September, Italy is a lovely destination as the weather is good and the temperature still high. Wanna a bigger advantage? Flight tickets are cheaper in autumn! This time we at Gals and the City brings you closer to one of the most romantic places in Italy – not to say in the whole world – waiting to be explored, Cinque Terre; a string of five centuries-old seaside villages nestled on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, in the province of Spezia, including Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso Al Mare. Seemingly unchanged by the passing of time these fishermen villages consist of colorful houses, caves, bays, steep cliffs, narrow alleys, Medieval Walls, towers, and bell towers that reach down to the crystal clear sea. There are so many things to see and taste … like the unforgettable focaccia (haha), so let’s schedule your trip there!
TRANSPORTATION:
As Pisa’s airport is the closest one in Cinque Terre, with approx. an hour’s drive from La Spezia, we suggest you take the train from La Spezia and head north, meeting the villages in the following order: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. Otherwise, take the train from Genova as it is also very close to Cinque Terre. By and large, trains are the best means to transport easy and comfortable to explore this natural beauty gem. But first, you should know that cars are banned inside the villages – there is free parking in the suburbs – so be ready to walk on picturesque tiny paths. But how to get from one village to another? Take the regional train and discover them just in a few minutes! Ps: Opt for sneakers or flat sandals because the key-secret is to feel comfortable to enjoy the journey … and don’t forget to put a swimsuit in your handbag! Alternatively, in case you are a lucky one to get the experience of a royal boat tour, you will be amazed by the fairytale scenery.
WHICH VILLAGES TO VISIT:
If your time is limited enough don’t miss visiting Manarola, the most famous and much-photographed village by far, which boasts of an impressive marina with tower-houses perched at staggering heights and multiple levels completing a magical view. Try sunbathing and diving from the edge of the rocks, walk down the main street which is full of ancient workshops and restaurants that face the colorful fishermen’s boats which are placed there when they are not in use. Isn’t it romantic?
The second must-see village is Vernazza for sure! It is undoubtedly the most colorful fishermen’s village of the Italian Riviera with a postcard look in pastel, yellow, turquoise, and pink shades. You can find many cafes, restaurants, gelaterias, and touristic shops as well in cute Piazza Marconi and down the main street, Via Roma, where you can enjoy the super delicious and famous focaccia. Narrow alleys, a magical beach, the natural harbor, the church of Santa Margherita d’ Antiochia, and the small Castle Doria make up a breath-taking view!
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Of course, last but not least, Monterosso al Mare is the biggest and most touristic village of Cinque Terre that definitely worths a visit. In the heart of the village, you will find Borgo Antico, which is the “ancient” side of the city, the castle, and the Aurora Tower that separates the old from the new city, called Fegina. The colorful houses dressed with beautiful bougainvilleas, the olive and grapevines groves, the alleys full of flowers, souvenir shops, and the famous beach with the iconic yellow umbrellas and crystal clear waters are what make this village so unique … just let the pictures travel you there!
Is it already on your travel list, isn’t it?
[Cover Photo © Mika Korhonen]
