If you're looking for an immersive experience, where you can experience a more complete slice of Liguria, spending 3 days in Cinque Terre and Levanto is an ideal choice.
This itinerary is designed to go deeper than the standard one-day hop through the villages.
With three full days, you’ll explore all five towns, enjoy a few off-the-beaten-path corners, and round it out with time in Levanto – Cinque Terre’s quieter but equally charming neighbor.
So stick around and I’ll share how to spend three well-balanced days mixing hiking, sightseeing, sea views, culture, and exceptional local food.
While this itinerary is meant to inspire, if you want more guidance (step-by-step timings, transport tips, restaurants and aperitivo recommendations, cultural details, and more), then you might like our premade itineraries (easy-to-use downloadable resources)!
This 3-day itinerary covers all 5 Cinque Terre villages, plus a chance to explore beyond Cinque Terre to the quaint seaside town of Levanto.
Included are all the must-see and do things in the five towns, plus experience the calm and authenticity of a typical Italian beach town.
Day 1: Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and a Taste of the Trails
Your first day begins in Riomaggiore, the southernmost of the five Cinque Terre villages. This colorful town sets the tone with its steep lanes, centuries-old churches, and a castle offering sweeping views over the Ligurian Sea.
- Start with a walk up to the Castle of Riomaggiore and the Church of San Giovanni Battista
- Stroll Via Colombo toward the small harbor and enjoy a mid-morning break with coffee and sea views
Next, take the Cinque Terre train to zip over to Vernazza, I think it is the most picturesque of the villages. It can also be one of the busiest.
You are guaranteed a special afternoon doing one or all of the following:
- 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
For a more immersive experience, consider adding a vineyard hike and wine tasting in the Vernazza hills. It’s a relaxed and rewarding way to connect with the area’s deep agricultural traditions.
Day 2: Manarola, Corniglia, and Monterosso al Mare
Start your morning in Manarola, known for its romance, pastel-colored houses, and iconic coastal views.
- Walk through town toward the Church of San Lorenzo and the bell tower
- Walk the panoramic trail through the ancient vineyards
- Head down to the harbor, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere
For lunch, there is everything from elegant restaurants to quick and affordable sandwich shops, where you can enjoy local favorites.
From here, head to Corniglia, the only village not directly on the sea. You’ll climb the famous Lardarina staircase (or take the convenient shuttle) to reach the peaceful hilltop town.
- Explore the narrow medieval lanes (carrugi)
- Visit St. Catherine’s Oratory and the Terrace of Santa Maria
- Take a late afternoon break for an aperitivo with views of the little town and coastline.
Later, spend your evening in Monterosso al Mare, where you can stroll along the beach promenade and explore the bustling old town.
- Walk up to the Convent of the Capuchin Friars for tranquility and views
- End with a satisfying dinner at one of the local beachside restaurants
For a truly unforgettable experience, book a sunset boat tour departing from Monterosso. A perfect way to end your day
Day 3: Hike (or Train) to Levanto for a Slow Travel Finish
On your final day, choose your own pace. If you’re up for a challenge, hike the section from Monterosso to Levanto on the famous blue trail. This 7.8km trail rewards you with sweeping views of the sea, pine forests, and ancient lookout points. I've done this a few times, and I can tell you it is worth it!
Alternatively, take the train and enjoy more time in Levanto, a relaxed seaside town that often gets missed by visitors focused solely on the Cinque Terre.
- Visit the 13th-century Malaspina Castle and the Church of Sant’Andrea
- Stroll through the historic town center, stopping at artisan shops
- Lunch in Piazza del Popolo and enjoy the gentle hum of a traditional, relaxed Italian seaside resort
Levanto is also famous for its wide, sandy beach, which is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and decompressing after two busy days of sightseeing.
Or, for the more adventurous and energetic, hire a bike and enjoy the wind in your hair as you pedal along the dedicated bike path to the nearby towns of Framura and Bonassola.
If you're staying in Cinque Terre, then you can return to Riomaggiore to walk the Path of Love and finish in Manarola for a farewell dinner with a view.
Why Add Levanto to a Cinque Terre Itinerary?
Including Levanto in your 3-day Cinque Terre itinerary gives you space to relax and see a side of Liguria that’s less busy but equally rich in charm. It offers a local feel, fewer crowds, and a perfect place to reflect on your time in the five villages.
This 3-day itinerary covers all 5 Cinque Terre villages, plus a chance to explore beyond Cinque Terre to the quaint seaside town of Levanto.
Included are all the must-see and do things in the five towns, plus experience the calm and authenticity of a typical Italian beach town.
Where to Stay
For a three-day trip, you’ll want a comfortable base. Consider:
- Riomaggiore or Manarola for romantic views and easy train access
- Monterosso, if you prefer beach proximity and more accommodation options
- Levanto is a quieter, budget-friendly option in a relaxed beachside town
For accommodation ideas and advice on which town to stay at, take a look at our helpful content:
How To Do This 3 Day Itinerary with Ease
- Buy your Cinque Terre Train Card for unlimited travel between villages (can be bought online to avoid the queues)
- Book restaurants in advance to avoid disappointment (especially during summer)
- Plan your trip so that you see all the main attractions and highlights and make the most of your vacation.
This 3-day Cinque Terre itinerary is a loose plan that you can adapt as you need. If you don’t have time to do hours of research but would like more detailed guidance, recommendations for things to do, places to eat, and how to get around, then you may like our ready-to-go itineraries. They are easy to use, affordable (starting from only 7 euros), and they can be instantly downloaded to your device.
Final Thoughts: A Richer Way to Experience the Coast
Spending 3 days in Cinque Terre and Levanto offers a deeper connection to this remarkable stretch of Ligurian coastline. It’s enough time to experience all five villages and spend time in one of the region’s most underrated towns.
The 3 Days in Cinque Terre and Levanto combines the most iconic spots with hidden corners, coastal hiking, and enough downtime to enjoy long lunches and sunset views.
This corner of Italy rewards the curious and invites you to linger. And my guess is that three days will only leave you wanting more!
This 3-day itinerary covers all 5 Cinque Terre villages, plus a chance to explore beyond Cinque Terre to the quaint seaside town of Levanto.
Included are all the must-see and do things in the five towns, plus experience the calm and authenticity of a typical Italian beach town.
