2 Days in Cinque Terre Itinerary
Cinque Terre is a place that deserves time. With its cliffside trails, pastel harbors, and historic character, it rewards those who stay long enough to go beyond the postcard. If you’re planning 2 days in Cinque Terre, you’re in for a rich and rewarding experience.
This sample itinerary outlines a well-paced flow through all five villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare, without rushing. It balances movement with relaxation, and popular spots with quieter moments. Even at this calm pace, it’s possible to experience all 5 villages in 2 days if you’re organized.
While this overview offers highlights and inspiration, if you want more guidance (where to eat and drink, step-by-step timings, transport advice, hidden highlights, cultural details, and more), then you might like our premade itineraries (ready-to-go downloadable resources)!
Enjoy two thoughtfully planned days and see all 5 villages.
This complete Cinque Terre itinerary covers all the must-see and do things to create unforgettable memories.
Day 1: Riomaggiore, Vernazza and Monterosso in a Day
Your 2-day Cinque Terre journey begins in Riomaggiore, the southernmost and perhaps most photogenic village. Narrow alleys lead up to a 13th-century castle with sweeping sea views, while the pastel harbor invites you to linger and take in the views.
- Stop at the Church of San Giovanni Battista for history and panoramic views
- Stroll Via Colombo and explore the artisan shops
- Walk the scenic “Terzo Binario” coastal path, connecting the harbor to the train station
Next, take a quick train north to Vernazza, arguably the most iconic of the five villages. Its harbor, framed by candy-colored houses and overlooked by a medieval watchtower, is a natural lunch stop.
- Eat at a traditional trattoria in the heart of the old town
- Climb up to Vernazza Castle for postcard views
- Enjoy a local aperitivo with a view and gelato by the harbor
If you're open to enriching your afternoon, a vineyard hike and wine tasting in the Vernazza hills is an excellent add-on. It combines history, local wine, and regional produce, all within a short walk from the station.
Finish the day in Monterosso al Mare, the largest and flattest village. Known for its beaches and elegant promenade.
- Visit the Convent of the Capuchin Friars for art and tranquility
- Explore the beachside promenade and the Il Gigante statue
- Dine at a seaside restaurant and enjoy the setting sun
Monterosso is also a great place to join a sunset boat tour with an aperitivo, snacks, and (in warm weather) a chance to swim.
Day 2: Manarola and Corniglia
Begin your second day in Manarola, a village that feels lifted from a storybook. Known for its terraced vineyards and timeless charm.
- Walk uphill past the old water wheel to the Church of San Lorenzo
- Meander through historic vineyards for breathtaking views
- Pause at the harbor to watch as excited tourists dive into the clear waters
From Manarola, you can hike the scenic trails to Corniglia. A steep and rugged hike through the vertical landscape that has been cultivated by local farmers for generations. (Or you can take a quick train to your next destination).
Unlike its siblings, Corniglia sits above the sea on a rocky hilltop and has a timeless charm and relaxed ease.
- Stroll the medieval laneways (carrugi)
- Visit the Oratory of St. Catherine with its 18th-century frescoes
- Enjoy panoramic views from the lookouts
- Sample basil gelato or enjoy an aperitivo at a cliffside café
Round off your day by returning to Monterosso for an optional evening boat tour. This is a unique way to experience Cinque Terre from the sea.
Add Cultural Depth With Local Experiences
Cinque Terre offers more than scenic views. Consider weaving in a couple of these experiences across your 2-day Cinque Terre itinerary:
- Wine tasting with a local family vineyard in the Riomaggiore hills
- Pesto-making class paired with regional wine and Ligurian specialties
- Sunset cruise with swim stops and onboard snacks
- Operatic recital at the Oratory of Vernazza (seasonal)
With some flexibility in timing, these add-ons can turn a good itinerary into a memorable one.
Where to Stay for Two Days in Cinque Terre
To comfortably follow this 2-day Cinque Terre itinerary, you’ll need a base in the area. Staying overnight allows you to experience the quieter, more atmospheric side of the villages, when the day-trippers leave and the streets take on a slower, local rhythm.
Accommodation options vary by village:
- Riomaggiore and Manarola: Great for romantic stays with dramatic coastal views.
- Vernazza: Perfect if you want to be at the heart of it all, with a lively harbor and charming dining options.
- Monterosso al Mare: Offers the most variety with beachside hotels, family-run B&Bs, and easier access for those with luggage.
- Corniglia: Quieter and more secluded, ideal for those who prefer peaceful evenings.
You can find guidance and recommendations in our Accommodation – Practical Guide.
We also have a blog post dedicated to the best accommodation in Monterosso al Mare.
Tips for a Smooth 2-Day Cinque Terre Itinerary
- Buy the Cinque Terre Train Card (online to avoid the queues) for unlimited travel between villages
- Avoid midday train crowds by moving early or late, where possible
- Choose and make restaurant reservations to avoid the tourist traps (especially during summer)
- Make time for gelato and an aperitivo. The 5 towns are small, but there’s a lot of walking (often uphill)
- Plan your trip! Don’t just trail along with the flow of the crowds. You’ll leave feeling disappointed. If you’re short on time, you can make use of our done-for-you Cinque Terre itineraries (with route guidance, cultural highlights, a map, and more)!
Enjoy two thoughtfully planned days and see all 5 villages.
This complete Cinque Terre itinerary covers all the must-see and do things to create unforgettable memories.
Make the Most of Every Moment
With two days in Cinque Terre, it’s entirely possible to experience all five villages in a meaningful, unhurried way.
Each town offers something different. Manarola’s romance, Corniglia’s tranquility, Monterosso’s bustle, Riomaggiore’s iconic harbor, and Vernazza’s happy vibe. Together, they combine into a bucket-list destination.
In this 2-day Cinque Terre itinerary, I have shared the highlights. However, our ready-to-go itineraries (PDF downloads) are more in-depth and can help you navigate to towns with greater ease.
For travelers who appreciate structure but want freedom, our easy and affordable itineraries can be the difference between a good day and an unforgettable one!
