Itineraries for Your Trip to Cinque Terre
3 Days in Cinque Terre for Foodies
Liguria’s Cinque Terre coastline is the ideal spot to sample fresh fish and seafood from the Tyrrhenian Sea paired with crisp white wines, aromatic olive oils, and other specialties produced in the inland hills. The area’s most famous dish is pesto, made with heirloom basil and local pine nuts that produce a uniquely rich and creamy version unlike any other.
Cinque Terre’s pesto captivated me first, but over many subsequent visits, I’ve discovered equally memorable delicacies like fresh focaccia right from the oven, farinata flatbread made with chickpea flour, garlicky mussel stew, anchovies served in endless variations, and more. Feast your way from Monterosso al Mare to Riomaggiore in three days with this delicious itinerary.
The Cinque Terre’s weather can change on a dime. Check the forecast often and dress accordingly.
If you only have time for one thing, make sure you try fresh artisanal pesto tossed with local trofie pasta.
The scenic footpaths that were once the only way to travel between the fishing villages by land are among the highlights of the Cinque Terre, and many of the coastal routes cut through the area’s historic terraced vineyards. Begin your time in the Cinque Terre by setting off to hike along these storied trails, stopping for a tour and tasting at a local winery along the way.
After a day exploring the vineyard-covered hills and colorful fishing villages by land, set sail at sunset for an aperitivo cruise to admire the landscape by sea. Nibble on focaccia and other Ligurian snacks while taking in the view at dusk.
Today, learn more about the Cinque Terre’s distinctive pesto by rolling up your sleeves and making some yourself at a cooking class. Grind basil, pine nuts, and other local ingredients together with a mortar and pestle, then enjoy the fruit of your labors over lunch.
In the afternoon, head to the historic port city of Genoa (a little over an hour away by train) to delve into Ligurian cuisine at its heart. Join a local guide to discover the best market stalls, street food stands, and eateries in the old town while you nibble on savory pies, cones of deep-fried seafood, and other satisfying specialties.
Set sail south to Portovenere with a local skipper and fisherman this morning to combine a scenic day cruise with an on-board lunch featuring the grilled catch of the day. Alternatively, continue past the Portovenere peninsula to the bustling port city of La Spezia, known for its vibrant market and local food scene. Connect with a foodie expert for a gourmet stroll through the old town and sample specialties from deep-fried calamari and anchovies to artisanal gelato.
Either way, you’ll be back in the Cinque Terre in time for a final dinner overlooking the sea at one of the coast’s rustic family-run trattorias.
