Cinque Terre may be known as “the affordable Amalfi Coast,” but it has its own unique beauty with a much lower price tag. It’s a haven for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts for its famous trails and steep sea cliffs. But with five towns to choose from, it’s hard to know where to base yourself. Not to worry! We’ll help you decide where to stay in Cinque Terre that’s right for you.
Pro Tip: Planning your trip to Cinque Terre? It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Bookmark this post along with our Italy Guide for more resources and our top Cinque Terre tours for a memorable trip. Check out where to stay in Lake Como too!
Where To Stay in the Five Cinque Terre Towns
If you love the beach, nature, and quiet villages full of character, don’t miss out on an overnight stay in Cinque Terre. Located on the coast halfway between Genoa and Florence, Cinque Terre literally translates to “five towns” in Italian.
The Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre (The National Park of the Five Towns) is a UNESCO World Heritage site of outstanding natural beauty on a strip of coastline known as the Italian Riviera.
Famous hiking trails connect the five towns and attract many nature lovers and visitors looking for a peaceful stay in a beautiful part of the world. You can join a day trip to Cinque Terre, but we highly recommend taking the opportunity to spend a few nights here.
In this guide, we’ll help you decide which Cinque Terre town to stay in and recommend the best hotels and apartment rentals for your vacation. These are the five coastal towns, plus a bonus town, that we’ll cover:
- Monterosso al Mare
- Vernazza
- Corniglia
- Manarola
- Riomaggiore
- Portovenere (unofficial 6th town)
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Monterosso al Mare
Monterosso is one of the most attractive towns of Cinque Terre for a lot of reasons. First, there are endless hotel and rental options, which makes life easier and prices better.
It’s also full of restaurants and bars, plus it has a massive beautiful beach. There is even a Lord-of-the-Rings-like sculpture carved into the rocks named Il Gigante (the Giant).
I’ve stayed in four of the five towns and I have to say Vernazza is my favorite. However, I’d have no qualms about staying in Monterosso al Mare. Especially with the kids.
Monterosso al Mare is really set up as two towns in one divided by a beautiful rock formation and convent that sticks out into the water. The west side feels more like a regular town with lots of roads and even cars. That’s where there are a ton of affordable hotels and a massive beach.
The east side feels more like a medieval Italian town built together. Both have their charms and you can easily walk back and forth between them so it really doesn’t matter which side you choose.
Why I love Monterosso al Mare:
- Best beaches
- Largest town
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Easy access to trails
- Great choice for families with kids
Restaurants and attractions in Monterosso al Mare:
- “Il Gigante” Statue
- Statue of San Francesco a Ripa
- Convent of the Capuchin Friars
- L’Ancora della Tortuga – Great restaurant with an epic seaside location
Best hotels and apartment rentals in Monterosso al Mare:
Hotel Porto Roca
€€€ | 4 Star | Pool | Seaside | Family Friendly
This is really the only “upscale” hotel in the entire area, which makes it a gem for many travelers. It has a great restaurant, a seaside pool, excellent amenities, and more. Perfect for families or travelers that are used to a little “more”.
Albergo Degli Amici
€€ | 3 Star | Rooftop Garden | Restaurant | Family Friendly
This hotel is located in the historic center and a 4-minute walk from the beach. The property boasts a rooftop garden, a restaurant serving traditional cuisine, and activities like table tennis set against the backdrop of terraced olive groves.
Hotel La Colonnina
€€ | 3 Star | Rooftop Terrace | Good Location | Family Friendly
This hotel is simple but it offers guests a comfortable base to enjoy Monterosso’s peaceful setting. Upgraded rooms each have a terrace and there’s a daily buffet-style breakfast, a cozy courtyard, and a rooftop terrace where you can take in beautiful sea views. The beach is also a short walk away.
Agriturismo Buranco
€ | Farmstay | Restaurant | Great for Couples and Families
These cottages set in a rural farm setting should definitely be on your radar. The picturesque property is a vineyard and offers guests a peaceful stay within walking distance of the beach. It has an onsite restaurant but if you’d prefer to cook the units have kitchens.
I Coralli Rooms & Apartments
€€ | Guest House | Great Location | Kitchenette
The decor in this hotel is bright and bold! There are rooms and apartments with kitchenettes and dining areas, making it a great choice for couples and families. You’ll be in the historic center and a short walk from the beach.
Other great hotels and apartment rentals:
- A Cà da Alba Rooms – Location, photos, and booking
- Pietre di Mare – Location, photos, and booking
- Appartamento in Via Vittorio – Location, photos, and booking
- Marvit Affittacamere – Location, photos, and booking
Check Out Our Best Cinque Terre Tours
Top Rated Tour
Cinque Terre Tour with Locally Produced Limoncino Tasting from La Spezia
With a fun and expert tour leader, discover the villages of the breathtaking Cinque Terre. You can also sunbathe on the beach and learn the differences between Limoncino and Limoncello. Decide for yourself which spirit reigns supreme!
(10)
Starting at €49
Top Rated Tour
Cinque Terre Hiking Tour from La Spezia
One of Italy’s most treasured gems and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cinque Terre is a Must See on your trip to Tuscany. On this excursion, travel in an air-conditioned private coach directly from central Florence for a truly memorable experience in a small group with an expert tour leader.
(9)
Starting at €55
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our Tuscany guide for more info.
Vernazza
In my humble opinion, Vernazza is the coolest town in all of Cinque Terre. It has this large downtown square on its harbor which is done really well. There are shops, restaurants, and lots to do which makes it great for a lunch stop or as your main destination. I definitely recommend having at least one meal here by the harbor.
Why I love Vernazza:
- Cool square on the harbor
- Lots of restaurants
- Great views
- Family-friendly
Restaurants and attractions in Vernazza:
- Piazza Guglielmo Marconi
- Porto di Vernazza
- Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church
- Friedhof Vernazza – Probably the nicest cemetery on Earth
- Vernazza Beach
- Doria Castle
Best hotels and apartment rentals in Vernazza
MADA Charm Apartments Terrace & Carugio
€€ | Modern Apartment | Great Views!
Really great location for this updated apartment in downtown Vernazza. AC units installed and comfortable decor. Amazing views of all the action in downtown Vernazza.
Hotel Gianni Franzi
€+ | 2 Star | Great Location | Restaurant | Terrace
The room decor may be a bit dated but guests love the location in the port square, the restaurant’s food is some of the best in town, and the terrace is a lovely place to enjoy breakfast or a peaceful evening. It may not be luxury but for the price the amenities are good.
La Malà
€€ | Guest House | Updated Rooms | Amazing Views
They describe themselves as “rooms of charm” which is a befitting description. This reasonably priced guest house would be likely my hotel of choice if visiting Cinque Terre with my wife and kids. Clean, beautiful, and relaxing makes for a good stay!
Chiostro
€€ | Spacious Room | Great Location | Perfect for Couples
Chiostro is a no-frills room right in the thick of Vernazza. It only has tea and coffee-making facilities, so you’ll have to eat out but it’s perfect for couples or solo travelers. Location-wise, you’ll be a quick walk from the train station and the beach.
Other great hotels and apartment rentals:
- La Polena Camere Vernazza: €€€ | Epic Apartment – Location, photos and booking
- Chez il Pino: € | Inexpensive and quaint, but out of the way – Location, photos, and booking
- Lassu Apartment with View: €€€ | Unbeatable location and views – Location, photos, and booking
- La Polena Camere Vernazza: €€ | 2 Bedroom Apartment | Downtown Vernazza – Location, photos, and booking
Corniglia
When you get to Corniglia, you’ll feel like you just arrived in a colorful town somewhere in the hills of Scotland but with much better weather. The town has a sleepy feel and is definitely focused on agriculture. It’s great for the contrarian traveler looking for peace and quiet. Appreciate it for its uniqueness and don’t rush through!
Why I love Corniglia:
- Sleepy rural town vibes
- Peaceful
- Fantastic hilltop views
- Hidden gems
Restaurants and attractions in Corniglia:
Being a sleepy town, the majority of what you’ll want to see and do is going to be edible.
- Ristorante La Posada – Great outdoor seating overlooking the cliffs of Cinque Terre
- La Scuna Wine & Beer – Cool little bar with typical appetizers (fish!) & great views
- Cantina da Manana – Small indoor restaurant with great seafood
- La Chiesa di San Pietro – Church of St. Peter
Best hotels and apartment rentals in Corniglia:
Locanda il Carugio
€€ | Great Location | Views | Contemporary
This is my number one choice for this sleepy little town. It has great views and it’s updated, clean, and close enough to Vernazza for some action!
Affittacamere Arbasia De Ma
€ | Room Rentals | Super Affordable | Great Views | For Couples
Here, you’ll enjoy simple rooms with lovely decor, a cozy vibe, and great views. It’s perfect for couples. Located just 10 minutes from the train station in Corniglia, you’ll also be close to the restaurants and bars in the area.
B&B Da Beppe
€ | Recently Updated | Terrace | Great For Families
A nice and updated B&B at a great price in Corniglia. It’s an easy walk to the coastal area where there are some restaurants and bars.
Arbanella
€ | Guesthouse | Great Views | Perfect for Couples and Solo Travelers
This guesthouse offers rooms split across multiple levels, so there are some awesome views. They’re clean, easy, and inexpensive room rentals in Corniglia.
Manarola
Manarola is likely the most picturesque and beautiful town in all of Cinque Terre, which is why you’ve probably seen a photo of it before. Like Riomaggiore, it’s a bustling town during the day and a little less sleepy at night.
The bay of Manarola, which you can’t quite see, has some great rock formations to swim around and even jump off, which makes it a top attraction for active youths.
There are lots of restaurants and places to eat, but I recommend lunch in Vernazza (next) or Riomaggiore (previous) since they have a more expansive port square featuring many restaurant options with great views.
Why I love Manarola:
- Very picturesque
- Bustling town during the day
- Cliff jumping
Restaurants and attractions in Manarola:
- Cemetery of Manarola
- Scenic Viewpoint – The place where everyone takes the most famous photo of Cinque Terre!
- Nessun Dorma – best view for drinks!
- Catina Burasca – unassuming wine bar
- Trattoria dal Billy
Best hotels and apartment rentals in Manarola:
Affittacamere San Giorgio
€€ | Comfortable Room Rentals | Water Views
Great views and not too far from the action. Clean with A/C and WIFI.
Amanarola
€€ | Guesthouse | Terrace | Beautiful Decor | Easy Access to Trails
This guesthouse has double rooms perfect for couples looking for a comfortable stay in a lovely space. You can enjoy village views from the terrace or from room balconies. There’s also easy access to the trails, so you can explore the nature of this beautiful area.
A Stelìn
€€ | Two Bedroom Apartment | Great For Families
This tastefully decorated two-bedroom apartment is a great choice for families looking for a home-away-from-home vacation in this sleepy Cinque Terre town. There’s a kitchen, dining area, and washing machine.
Il Sogno di Manarola by The First
€€€ | Lux Apartments | Sea View | Great Terrace
Great rooms for someone who wants the Cinque Terre atmosphere with more of a luxury feel. It’s not in downtown Manarola which has positives and not many negatives. Cinque Terre is a big walking destination so this isn’t an issue since you are there to move around.
Giovanni Rooms Manarola
€€ | Room Rental | Updated Rooms | Nice Views
Here, the rooms are well-designed and comfortable with plenty of space. It’s set a little further back in the town, which is not necessarily a bad thing. The views are nice.
Check Out Our Best Day Trips from Florence
Top Rated Tour
Pisa and Lucca Day Trip from Florence
One of the world’s most recognizable sites, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a symbol of Italy. With luxury air-conditioned transportation from Florence, head to Pisa for the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, and the Piazza dei Miracoli. Then explore the picturesque town of Lucca for an amazing full day in Tuscany.
(10)
Starting at €65
Top Rated Tour
Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with Boat Ride
One of Italy’s most treasured gems and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cinque Terre is a Must See on your trip to Tuscany. On this excursion, travel in an air-conditioned private coach directly from central Florence for a truly memorable experience in a small group with an expert tour leader.
(9)
Starting at €96
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our best Florence tours to take and why.
Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore has a fun seaside port feel during the day and is a bit sleepier at night. It’s either the first or the last town of Cinque Terre depending on how you look at it, which means you’ll see a lot of action in the morning as well as later in the day.
Restaurants will fill up for lunch and dinner and then it will calm down significantly throughout the evening. It’s an amazing town for families who don’t want to be kept up at night by noise but want spaces where their kids can run around a bit. As always, no vehicle traffic here.
Why I love Riomaggiore:
- Quaint
- Lots of restaurants with outdoor seating
- Pretty port
- Great family choice
Restaurants and attractions in Riomaggiore:
Best hotels and apartment rentals in Riomaggiore:
Your sleeping options in Riomaggiore, and most of Cinque Terre, are basically limited to apartment rentals and B&Bs, which isn’t a bad thing since you’ll save a buck or two. We’ll focus on comfortable accommodation with great views and close to the action!
The Sunset Line
€€€ | Guesthouse | Contemporary | Hot Tub | Terrace | Family Friendly
The Sunset Line is a lovely guesthouse with a contemporary design and options for couples and families. There are plenty of ways to relax here. Enjoy a spa bath in your room or the hot tub on the terrace. With great views and a peaceful setting, it’s a great place to soak up Cinque Terre.
Hotel Due Gemelli
€€ | Hotel | Water Views | Outside the Center | Family Friendly
This hotel is not in the center of things by any means. It’s definitely for travelers who want to be more in touch with nature and don’t mind walking a bit to get to the action. You’ll be happy about the views though!
Crêuza de Mä
€€ | Hotel | Waterfront | Hot Tub | Terrace | Great For Couples
This is a cool hotel right on the water in Riomaggiore. The property is modern with lovely gardens and finishings. You’ll definitely be comfortable here as you take in the beautiful Cinque Terre views, maybe even from the hot tub!
Agave Room Rental
€€+ | Guesthouse | Great Views | Hot Tub | Perfect for Hikers
Expect fantastic sea views at this property but travel light as it won’t be easy bringing a lot of baggage. Once you arrive, you’ll have comfortable rooms, great views, and even a hot tub to relax in. This is perfect for anyone planning on doing some hiking.
Alla Marina Affittacamere
€ | Room Rentals | Water Views | Family Friendly
This basic accommodation comes with incredible views! It’s a sweet little guesthouse, so don’t expect a reception desk like a hotel. But you’ll get a cozier stay here.
Portovenere (Unofficial Sixth Town)
Portovenere is an unofficial part of Cinque Terre. It’s an excellent place for travelers who want to experience the area but be in a bustling town. It’s full of shops, restaurants, hotels, and activities.
If you are not big on hiking or have mobility issues, this may be a great choice for you. While I recommend everyone who’s able to do the hike, you can also easily take the ferry from here to all the Cinque Terre towns.
Why I love Portovenere:
- Lots to do
- Great vibe
- Lots of accommodation choices
- Family-friendly
Attractions in Portovenere:
- Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere
- Forte del Muzzerone
- Torre Corazzata Umberto I
- Forte Santa Maria
- Chiesa di San Pietro
Best hotels and apartment rentals in Portovenere:
Grand Hotel Portovenere
€€€€ | 5 Star | Contemporary Hotel | Restaurant | Spa
This is a beautiful luxury hotel with tons of amenities, a great restaurant, and an amazing view! If that’s what you like, this is definitely the spot in Portovenere.
Affittacamere La Tortuga
€ | Guest House | Great Terrace | Close To Beach
La Tortuga is a great little guesthouse with a rooftop terrace, stunning views, and a great location. If you want to be close to the beach, this is the spot.
Location, photos, and bookings
L’Ancora
€€ | Great Views | Well Located | Adult Only
L’Ancora is perfect for couples. You can expect reasonable prices for a contemporary B&B with excellent views. Located on the seafront, the town is right on your doorstep.
Location, photos, and bookings
Relais Santa Caterina Portovenere
€ | B&B | Excellent Views | Rustic Charms
This B&B is very well done and has a super Mediterranean backyard. It’s a great option for couples who want to be slightly out of the thick of things without being far away. The views are pretty good too!
Location, photos, and bookings
Other great hotels and apartment rentals:
- Hotel Belvedere – Location, photos, and booking
- La Casa del Pescatore B&B – Location, photos, and booking
- Albergo Ristorante Paradiso – Location, photos, and booking
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