2. From Florence: Private Full-Day Tour of the Ligurian Coast
Admire the sight of the white marble quarries of the Apuan Alps as you drive through the "azure motorway" along a stretch of Tyrrhenian coast, before entering the Liguria territory. Soon you will reach Riomaggiore, a beautiful village of the Cinque Terre, characterized by medieval coloured tower-houses, steps, alleys and small squares, between two steep terraces. From here, you will take a train to Manarola, the small village of the Cinque Terre in the gorge of a high promontory among vines, olive trees and fragrant Mediterranean maquis.
The next small village in the Cinque Terre lies in the gorge of a high promontory among vines and olive trees. You continue onward and reach Vernazza, one of the most beautiful hamlets in Italy, a jewel perched on a rocky promontory which stretches out towards the sea with a small port against green hills. Admire the houses from the beach with the colours tarnished by salt and disappear among the lanes with dozens of shops. Indulge in the seafood cuisine served in a traditional Italian restaurant.
Next admire the beauty of the Cinque Terra from the sea in a boat along the stretch of water between Vernazza and Portovenere. The cruise will require one hour of navigation embracing the arch of the beautiful rugged coast featuring the picturesque villages you have just visited. Portovenere awaits you following the cruise and is a gemstone rich in history and art, nestled amongst a breathtaking and unique natural landscape.
Take a walk along the seaside and among the shops that sell authentic products and local handicrafts then visit the Gothic Church of San Pietro (1198), decorated with the typical white and black bands, perched on top of a high promontory and built on the remains of a Roman temple dedicated to the goddess Venus. Then, at the tour’s conclusion, admire the medieval sculptures of the Collegiate of San Lorenzo (1130) and the imposing Castello Doria overlooking the hamlet.
In case of adverse weather conditions, the transfer will take place by minivan instead of by boat.