Discovering Cinque Terre from Florence

Located 185 kilometers northwest of Florence, the enchanting coastal region of Cinque Terre is an ideal day trip destination, though reaching it can be a bit complex due to the mountainous terrain. While hiking is an option, visitors can also opt for trains or boats to navigate the area. Those planning a visit will likely seek a comfortable place to stay, local cuisine, and must-see attractions.

Cinque Terre comprises five quaint villages perched along a dramatic coastline of cliffs and hills, linked by a network of mountain roads. It's a hiker's paradise and a summer hotspot offering stunning coastal views.

For those visiting Cinque Terre, here are the best travel options from Florence to Cinque Terre and between the villages once you're there.

1. From Florence to Cinque Terre by Tour

Harbor and the colorful village of Vernazza, Cinque Terre

Consider a 13-hour tour from Florence, which includes a 5.5-kilometer hike through Cinque Terre's hills. Starting with a coach ride from Florence, a professional English-speaking guide will introduce you to the area. The hike, which is quite rugged and includes a steep climb, leads to the village of Corniglia. Alternatively, you can skip the hike and take a train between villages.

After exploring Corniglia, you'll take a train to Monterosso, known for its beaches and artisan shops. Weather permitting, a boat ride to Riomaggiore offers views of pastel-colored buildings. The tour concludes with a hike back to Manarola and a relaxing return trip to Florence.

For a less strenuous experience, a full-day tour with transport from Florence allows you to visit the villages by train, boat, and vehicle, with no hiking required.

2. From Florence to Cinque Terre by Train

Manarola train station on the Cinque Terre coast

Trains from Florence to Cinque Terre typically involve a change at La Spezia. The journey starts at Florence SMN Train Station, with direct trains to La Spezia taking about two hours. Once there, switch to the 5 Terre Express, which connects all five villages every 15 minutes. A Cinque Terre Train Card offers unlimited train travel and access to the national park's hiking trails.

3. From Florence to Cinque Terre by Train and Ferry

Ferry gliding by the village of Manarola, Cinque Terre

From La Spezia, you can also take a boat to Cinque Terre between April 1st and November 1st. Ferries connect La Spezia with four of the five villages, excluding Corniglia. The boat offers scenic views but is slower than the train, making it less ideal for those with limited time or wishing to visit all villages in one day.

4. From Florence to Cinque Terre by Car

The drive from Florence to Cinque Terre is approximately 190 kilometers and takes about 2.5 hours via the A11/E76 highway, passing through cities like Lucca and La Spezia. Be prepared for tolls and potential traffic during peak season. Cinque Terre's villages are not car-friendly, with limited access and challenging parking. It's advisable to park at La Spezia Central train station and use the train to visit the villages.