Get to know the five villages
From south to north, the villages are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare. Riomaggiore and Manarola offer the close meeting of houses and sea that many visitors picture first. Vernazza is known for its harbor, while Monterosso is a choice for beach time. Corniglia sits above the coast, so allow for the climb when planning a visit ashore.
Look beyond the waterfront
The terraces above the villages are part of what makes this coast distinctive. Dry-stone walls and cultivated hillsides help explain why the landscape matters as much as the views of the sea. If walking is part of your plans, check current routes and access with the National Park before setting out.
Choose time ashore or a view from the sea
Walking through a village gives you time for its lanes and small squares. A boat gives you a wider view of the coastline and the relationship between the settlements and the hills. For a first visit, choose one or two priorities and leave time to enjoy each place.
Plan your boarding point
If you would like a private boat experience, begin with where you are staying. AMG offers a seven-hour Cinque Terre and Gulf of Poets tour, with different boarding options by boat. Selected village pick-ups are available with Flyer 9, Soleil 23 La Spezia and Sunsix; our team confirms the exact arrangements.
Consider a sunset experience
For an evening on the water, our two-and-a-half-hour private sunset experience explores the Gulf of Poets and reaches no farther than Riomaggiore and Manarola. Choose it for the evening atmosphere and aperitivo; choose the daytime tour if you want a longer experience along the coast.