The Family Guide to Cinque Terre

Alexandria

International Travel | Travel

September 11, 2025

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Our family trip to Cinque Terre was one for the books filled with breathtaking views, unforgettable meals, and memories that will last a lifetime. From the moment we stepped off the train in Monterosso we soaked up every bit of this incredible Italian coastal gem. Discover the magic of Cinque Terre with this family travel guide! From a romantic sunset boat tour and hands-on pesto-making class to hidden swimming spots and authentic Italian eats, here’s how we spent 2 unforgettable days exploring Italy’s stunning coastal villages.

Getting There & Settling In

We kicked off our journey with a scenic train ride from Milan to Monterosso, the northernmost village of the five that make up Cinque Terre. Our home base for the next few days was the B&B Bellambra, a charming little spot run by the sweetest family. Lorenzo, the owner, instantly made us feel like part of the family. He welcomed us with warmth and gave us fantastic recommendations for exploring the area, especially where to find the best local dinners. He got us dinner reservations for a place we couldn’t get into ourselves!

Monterosso itself felt like a dream. Narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and that intoxicating sea breeze. It was the perfect place to unwind and settle into the slow rhythm of Italian coastal life.

Getting There & Settling In | The Family Guide to Cinque Terre

A Birthday Sunset to Remember

Our first night happened to be extra special. It was July 4th, and my husband’s birthday. To celebrate, we booked a sunset boat tour with a local fishing boat owned by a local restaurant, Aquamarina, and it turned out to be one of the most magical experiences!

As we cruised along the rugged coastline, we passed each of the five picturesque villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The views were stunning, with colorful houses clinging to the cliffs and the sun slowly sinking into the horizon.

The kids jumped in to snorkel in the clear Ligurian Sea, laughing and splashing while we sipped wine on deck. Then came a traditional Italian dinner right on the boat. Fresh bruschetta, crisp salads, perfectly grilled seafood, and, to top it all off, tiramisu complete with birthday candles.

Watching my husband blow out his candles while surrounded by the sea and our family was magic. It was the kind of moment you never forget.

Manarola

Pesto, Music, and Cliffside Swimming

The next morning, we woke up to the smell of fresh croissants and strong Italian coffee from the cozy café just below our B&B. After fueling up, we hopped on the train to Manarola for a pesto-making class at Nessun Dorma, an experience I’d recommend to anyone visiting Cinque Terre.

Pesto Making | The Family Guide to Cinque Terre

The class was lively and fun, with music playing, drinks flowing, and the most entertaining instructor who made sure everyone was laughing as much as they were learning. We ground fresh basil, pine nuts, and parmesan by hand, creating delicious pesto! Of course, we enjoyed it with plenty of bread, wine, and good company!

After class, we lingered in Manarola to swim off the rocks, a popular pastime in this cliffside village. The turquoise water was perfect and refreshing and Manarola quickly became one of our favorite villages.

Manarola | The Family Guide to Cinque Terre

Vernazza: A Touch of Disney Magic

From there, we hopped back on the train to Vernazza, the inspiration behind the animated film Luca. The village was undeniably beautiful, with its iconic harbor and pastel buildings, but it was noticeably more crowded than the others.

After a quick wander and some photos, we decided to escape the crowds and return to the quieter charm of Monterosso for a relaxed evening by the sea.

Vernazza: A Touch of Disney Magic | The Family Guide to Cinque Terre

A Rainy Farewell

On our final day, the weather turned a bit rainy, which sadly meant we had to cancel our planned hike between the villages. To hike the trails you’ll need to purchase The Cinque Terre Card. This card allows you to access local transportation and hike the trails inside the Cinque Terre National Park. It’s super easy to hop on the trains too, so you can always hike and train back if the kids start getting cranky.

Why Cinque Terre Stole Our Hearts

Cinque Terre isn’t just a place you visit, it’s a place you feel. From the warm hospitality of Lorenzo and his family at B&B Bellambra, to unforgettable experiences like our sunset boat tour and pesto class, every moment felt so special here. Whether you’re there to hike the trails, swim in the sea, or simply sip wine while gazing at the views, Cinque Terre has a way of slowing down time and filling your heart.

Top 5 Things to Do in Cinque Terre

If you’re planning a visit, here are five must-do activities to make your trip unforgettable:

1. Sunset Boat Tour

Cruise past the five villages, snorkel in the sea, and enjoy an Italian dinner on the water. (We loved Aquamarina!)

2. Pesto-Making Class at Nessun Dorma

Learn to make authentic Ligurian pesto while sipping wine with one of the best views in Cinque Terre.

Top 5 Things to Do in Cinque Terre | The Family Guide to Cinque Terre

3. Swim in Manarola or Riomaggiore

Jump off the rocks and cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian Sea.

4. Explore Vernazza’s Harbor

Wander through the picturesque streets of the village that inspired Luca.

5. Hike the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail)

Trek between the villages for jaw-dropping views (weather permitting!).

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