Embarking on a train journey can provide a unique and leisurely way to admire the world’s beauty from the comfort of your seat. While such experiences are often pricey, there is a stunning train route that can be enjoyed for just £13 per day.
Traveling along this route grants you the opportunity to explore five charming coastal destinations filled with historical landmarks, scenic hiking trails, and more.
Cinque Terre, meaning ‘Five Lands’ in Italian, is a cluster of picturesque fishing villages nestled along the enchanting Ligurian Riviera in northwest Italy. This coastal stretch, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, features colorful houses, cobblestone streets, lush vineyards, and pristine beaches leading to turquoise waters.
The Cinque Terre Express operates along this rugged coastline, offering a half-hour scenic ride between Levanto and La Spezia. The journey showcases breathtaking views of secluded coves and charming Italian hamlets.
The train makes stops at the five villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, allowing passengers to alight and explore each location at their own pace. With trains running every 20 minutes from early morning until late at night, there is ample flexibility for travelers to craft their own adventure.
Vernazza, often lauded as the most picturesque village among the five, exudes quintessential Italian allure with its narrow lanes devoid of cars, vibrant houses, and quaint local shops adorned with wooden shutters.
At the Porto di Vernazza harbor area, visitors can savor seafood pasta dishes while admiring the breathtaking vistas or opt for a boat excursion along the expansive coastline.
Monterosso al Mare, the largest village, is a favorite destination for beach enthusiasts due to its vast sandy beaches. The village’s flat terrain provides a welcome break after meandering through steep cobblestone streets.
Many tourists flock to Monterosso’s crystal-clear waters for a day of relaxation, with options to rent beach chairs or enjoy the public sands. Exploring the old town reveals the medieval Aurora Tower and remnants of Fieschi Castle, once a prominent local family’s stronghold.
The coastal region boasts 48 hiking trails, attracting hikers who use the train to access various routes. While some trails are challenging, beginners can opt for the Riomaggiore to Manarola trail, a 30-minute trek offering stunning ocean views.
Individual tickets for the Cinque Terre Express can be acquired at station counters. However, travelers planning to extensively explore the area may find the Cinque Terre MS Card advantageous. This pass offers unlimited travel on the route, with an off-peak day pass priced at €14.80 (roughly £13), available for purchase at stations or online via Trenitalia.
For extended visits, two and three-day tickets are available at discounted rates of €26.50 and €31.50 (approximately £23 and £27) respectively, valid until 13 March.
During peak hours, an adult day pass may cost up to €32.50, slightly exceeding £28, yet still offering excellent value. In summer, some hiking trails may have entry fees. However, the Cinque Terre Express day pass includes access to paid hiking areas between Monterosso and Corniglia.
Peak tickets also grant access to bus services within the Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre, facilitating travel to secluded hiking trails.