Vernazza

Transportation

Cinque Terre is an unmissable destination for those who come to Italy, a land between the sea and high rocks, and one of the most romantic and striking spots in the world. Be driven to Riomaggiore from Florence, the village, dating back to the early 13th-century, is famous for its historic character and local wine. Admire the houses leaning one against the other and stroll along the narrow cobbled alleyways and sheltered paths. You can guide your way through this picturesque landscape, which has inspired many poets, painters, and writers, and see through the 5 villages that make up Cinque Terre. Afterward, take the train back to La Spezia, where you'll be picked up at the La Spezia Centrale Train Station to be transferred back to Florence after a memorable day in Cinque Terre.

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.

Travel by train and minivan on this day trip to the Cinque Terre from the city of Florence. Explore the beauty of a coastline of dramatic cliffs and admire how the colorful buildings in each town contrasts with the blue of the sea. Meet your guide in the morning at Piazza Antinori in Florence. Sit back and relax and enjoy the natural scenery in the Cinque Terre National Park as you travel to Manarola. Have some free time to soak up the vibe in this town with only 353 permanent residents. Continue to Vernazza, which is known as the ‘pearl of Cinque Terre’. Let this ancient fishing village with lovely beaches enchant you as you explore its lively cafes, fashionable boutiques, and local crafts, or take some time to see the Church of Santa Margarita de Antioquia. Stop at Monterosso al Mare which is situated in a natural gulf. See the town at your own pace with some free time to lose yourself in its charming alleyways and narrow streets, or make use of the most extensive sandy beach in the Cinque Terre. Transfer to a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan for the drive back to Florence.

Take a private bus or private car from Florence and enjoy a convenient transfer to Cinque Terre. Visit the coastal area's five centuries-old seaside villages and discover the old charm Italy's known for.  Start with a stop in Manarola, followed by Vernazza and Riomaggiore, where you'll have some free time before heading to Monterosso. While in Monterosso take the opportunity for a quick dip in the sea or savor a delicious local lunch. Move on to Manarola at your own leisure to take in the breathtaking landscapes. Head to La Spezia for a little sightseeing and where your return transfer will be waiting for you. Round out your trip with a relaxing ride back to Florence with a 7:30 PM arrival time.