It’s likely you’ll only visit Cinque Terre once in your life, so I’m sure you want to make it extra special. And finding where to stay in Cinque Terre is an excellent way to start planning your holiday!
In this Cinque Terre accommodation guide, I'll share my local expertise to help you choose where to stay in Cinque Terre. And that’s my goal; to help you plan your trip to make it as fantastic and memorable as possible.
Continue reading to find out:
- The pros and cons of staying in each town.
- Practicalities of staying in Cinque Terre.
- Cinque Terre accommodation costs.
- A curated list of places to stay in each town.
- An easy decision table with key considerations.
A Little About Us
Hi! We are Justin and Lu and we moved to Italy from Australia. Our new home in La Spezia near Cinque Terre, has woken us to this little corner of Italy.
La Spezia Guide is our way of embracing our new home and sharing the best it has to offer with visitors coming to the area.
Buon Viaggio!
The 5 Towns – Choosing Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
Even though the Cinque Terre towns are located within just a few minutes train ride of each other, there are advantages and disadvantages to staying in one over another.
The five towns of Cinque Terre are:
- Riomaggiore
- Manarola
- Corniglia
- Vernazza
- Monterosso al Mare
Practical Decisions
In this post, I’m going to focus on the practicalities of each town.
So, to start, you should know that finding places to stay in Cinque Terre during high season can be like finding a needle in a haystack. It’s no surprise then that accommodation in Cinque Terre is expensive.
You can find better value for your money by staying in the nearby towns of Levanto and La Spezia.
It’s also true that the different towns in Cinque Terre have different challenges that make them unsuitable for certain tourists.
For example, are you coming by car? Do you have mobility issues? Are you strong enough to carry your luggage up steep stairs? Are you on a budget? These kind of things.
That’s what you’ll find in this guide. Some key information to help you make a quick (and informed) decision and find the best town to stay in Cinque Terre for you!
Don’t have time to read this full post, then skip to my handy, quick decision table.
Heart-Over-Head
When deciding where to stay in Cinque Terre, you might want to base your decision entirely on the look and feel of each town. Not everyone cares about excessive stairs, limited parking, or whether a town is suitable for families.
If you’re happy to make a heart-over-head decision, you can read about the more interesting aspects of each Cinque Terre town in other parts of our blog.
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.
Cinque Terre Accommodation Costs
So, as I already said, Cinque Terre is generally expensive for accommodation, and it will likely be your biggest daily expense.
As the popularity has grown, so too have the prices. Even in the low season, you’ll struggle to get anything decent (clean, comfortable, and neat) for under 125 Euros per night.
Below you’ll find accommodation options for each town with guide pricing for a double room in shoulder season:
- $ is accommodation under 75 Euros per night
- $$ is accommodation between 100 and 175 Euros per night
- $$$ is accommodation between 175 and 300 Euros per night
- $$$$ is accommodation over 300 Euros per night
Riomaggiore Accommodation
Riomaggiore is amongst the most popular towns to visit. Even if you’ve never been here, you’ll likely already be familiar with the rugged little harbor and brightly colored tower houses. Tourists from around the globe come here to admire this view.
This is the town we stayed in for our first holiday to Cinque Terre. It was a good base for our 4 days of hiking and sightseeing.
We have many fond memories, and after a day of hiking, the afternoon aperitivos at Bar e Vini (near the Via dell’Amore Path of Love) were sublime!
However, Riomaggiore isn’t for everyone. Entry to the harbor (from the train station and town) requires good mobility, and you have to navigate a steep staircase.
Things To Consider about Riomaggiore Accommodation
Reasons to Stay in Riomaggiore
Beautiful and atmospheric at all times of the day with EXTRA special views.
Variety of restaurants (and some bars) of good quality both in the day and nighttime.
Easy 10 minutes train ride to La Spezia and 25 minutes by boat to Portovenere (a town well worth visiting)!
Direct access to the water for swimming and jumping off the rocks.
Several boat trips and water based experiences starting right from the harbor.
Reasons to Avoid Staying in Riomaggiore
Very hilly terrain with lot of stairs making it difficult for anyone with mobility issues.
Small, confined laneways can make it hard to move around with luggage.
Accommodation is limited and consequently expensive.
Restricted vehicle access in the village with limited parking.
Riomaggiore: Places to Stay with a View
Some of the best places to stay in Riomaggiore are away from the main street and in upper laneways.
If you’re traveling light and can tackle the hills and stairs then you’ll find accommodation with seductive views out over the sea. Here are some ideas of where to stay in Riomaggiore:
Sollevante Guest House: $$ Bright and modern with incredible sea views in a quiet part of town. Close to the train station and accessible via the public lift**
The Sunset Line: $$$$ For a touch of extra luxury, this guest house is a comfortable escape from the crowds and has on-site parking! Close to the train station and accessible via the public lift**
Stellio Affittacamere – Guest House: $$$ Elegantly restored and modernized guest rooms set in the iconic harbor of Riomaggiore. Extremely attentive and helpful host.
Insider Tip: Request a meet and greet at the station and help with your luggage.
**NOTE: The public lift is opposite the train station. But be advised it isn’t always working and in summer there is a small charge (1-2 Euros).
Is Riomaggiore Good Value for Money
When compared to the other towns, Riomaggiore has very good quality accommodation. Many places are modernized, well appointed and some have eye-popping views.
So even though you need a mid to high-range budget, you can find stays that feel like a fair price.
There is also a variety of accommodation experiences (including hotels, hostels, B&Bs, and apartments) to suit different budgets.
Search and Book Accommodation in Riomaggiore
Who Should Stay in Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is a great place to stay for couples, singles, and anyone with good knees!
I really do not recommend it for families with young children or anyone with mobility challenges.
Manarola Accommodation
Manarola is another extremely popular town to visit, especially at sunset when hundreds of people jostle at the lookout to capture the pastel-colored buildings in the glow of the setting sun.
Manarola has a youthful vibe, many excellent eateries, and its home to the extremely popular Nessun Dorma bar where you can indulge in lavish aperitivo with one of the best views of Manarola (and possibly Cinque Terre)!
Things To Consider about Manarola Accommodation
Reasons to Stay in Manarola
Excellent views from various parts of town.
Variety of restaurants of good quality.
Easier access to the water for swimming and jumping off the rocks!
Variety of experiences including cooking classes, pesto making, and wine tasting.
Reasons to Avoid Staying in Manarola
Hilly terrain with stairs in some sections and in certain parts of town.
Accommodation is limited and consequently expensive.
Restricted vehicle access in the village with limited parking.
Manarola: Places to Stay with Views
Typically, the best Manarola accommodations are the places with views. And unlike Riomaggiore, you can feasibly walk from the train station or harbor through the town without tackling too many awkward or windy stairs!
Here are some options of places to stay in Manarola with a view and with good access:
La Torretta Lodge: $$$$ This contemporary designer lodge offers a unique stay with incredible sea views away from the crowds, but just a 10-minute stroll from the train station. A courtesy luggage transfer from the public parking lot is also available to start your stay in style.
Salty Dreams: $$ Location, views, and convenience wrapped up in a comfortable guest house. Step outside the front door for your morning coffee, afternoon swim, or evening dinner. Easily accessible by train (no stairs) or by boat (few stairs at the harbor).
Hotel Marina Piccola: $$ Elegantly restored hotel with comfortable guest rooms set in the heart of Manarola old town. Within 5 minutes of the train station, this is one of the best stays in Manarola for easy access.
Insider Tip: Make it extra special and book a room with a view.
Is Manarola Good Value for Money
Like Riomaggiore, Manarola has some very good quality accommodation with a variety of styles to suit mid to high range budgets.
For Cinque Terre, I would say that it is fair value for money.
Who Should Stay in Manarola
Unlike Riomaggiore, you can still enjoy staying here, even if you have mobility issues.
Whilst some parts of Manarola do have steep stairs and narrow laneways, the main part of town between the harbor, train station, and car park is accessible with a wheelie bag.
So, Manarola is suitable for most people, including couples and families. However, if you have young children, you should also consider Monterosso al Mare.
Search and Book Accommodation in Manarola
Corniglia Accommodation
Corniglia is the smallest and least touristy of the Cinque Terre towns. The town sits on top of a hill amongst vineyard terraces and looks out over the sea. Corniglia doesn’t have a dock for the ferries, but it can be reached by car or train.
People come to Corniglia to escape the crowds and enjoy a different side of Cinque Terre.
Things To Consider about Corniglia Accommodation
Reasons to Stay in Corniglia
Excellent views from various parts of town.
Quieter and relaxed atmosphere.
Friendly local village with an authentic Italian feel.
Some good restaurants and eateries including the famous Alberto Gelateria!
Reasons to Avoid Staying in Corniglia
Hilly terrain with lots of stairs (almost 400 stairs (Scalinata Ladarina) from the train station to town)!
Accommodation is very limited, but you can find more affordable stays than the other towns.
Restricted vehicle access in the village with limited parking.
Difficult access to the beach / water.
Corniglia Places to Stay
Typically, the best Corniglia accommodations are the places with true local hospitality. There are several Corniglia bed and breakfast-style lodgings that will feel like your home away from home!
Here are some options of places to stay in Corniglia offering a warm welcome:
AMARE IL MARE Affittacamere: $$ Staying here will feel like being hosted by old friends. Your hosts take great pride in getting you settled, and the rooms are comfortable. Car access and parking are also available.
Insider Tip: Arriving by train with luggage? Request a transfer.
Affittacamere Arbasia De Ma, Terre Marine: $$ For traditionally styled coastal apartments with views and welcoming attentive service you’ll find it all here.
Insider Tip: Arriving by train with luggage? Request a transfer.
Locanda Il Carugio: $$ These modern, sleek tidy rooms are well-appointed and comfortable. Your hosts go above and beyond and include a delicious breakfast.
Insider Tip: The shuttle bus is a convenient alternative to walking up the hill or tackling the stairs!
Is Corniglia Good Value for Money
Corniglia accommodation is better value for money than the other Cinque Terre towns.
If you’re planning a budget-friendly Cinque Terre vacation, then Corniglia usually offers affordability and comfort. For Cinque Terre, I would say that it is fair value for money.
Search and Book Accommodation in Corniglia
Who Should Stay in Corniglia
Corniglia is ideal for hikers and people who want to soak up the local culture and escape the crowds.
Like Riomaggiore, you need to be mobile and be prepared to climb some stairs. For that reason, I don’t recommend Corniglia to families with children needing a stroller.
Detailed info: There is a SMALL shuttle bus from the train station to the town, but during summer the bus gets full. So, you may have to wait for the bus to loop back around (every 10 minutes or so).
The shuttle bus is included in the Cinque Terre Card. Or you can buy a ticket on board the bus.
Vernazza Accommodation
Of all the towns, I think Vernazza offers a little bit of everything. Views, a beach, an interesting old town, a striking harbor, cute shops, and a large open piazza with restaurants and a couple of bars.
It’s a good option as a base if you enjoy alfresco dining and a lively atmosphere.
Things To Consider about Vernazza Accommodation
Reasons to Stay in Vernazza
Excellent views from various parts of town.
Variety of restaurants of good quality.
Easier access to the water for swimming right from the beach in town.
Several shops for purchasing gifts and tourist nicknacks.
Variety of experiences including water based activities leaving from the harbor.
Reasons to Avoid Staying in Vernazza
Hilly terrain with stairs in some sections and certain parts of town. But the main street is stair-free!
Accommodation is amongst the most expensive in Cinque Terre.
Restricted vehicle access in the village with VERY few parking options.
Places to Stay in Vernazza
There is a reasonable quantity of Vernazza accommodation and a variety of accommodation styles. However, be cautious when booking, because off the main street, there are several steep staircases!
Here are some options of places to stay in Vernazza close to the old town, harbor and main piazza:
Il Ciasso' Romantic Seafront Escape: $$$$ Nestled up in the hills with captivating views, this bright apartment has all the home comforts within minutes’ walk of Vernazza old town.
Insider Tip: Good mobility is required to reach this apartment.
Santa Marta Rooms – Vernazza: $$ These cute rooms off the main street are beautifully presented and very centrally located. The accommodation is up a steep staircase, but still within minutes of the train station.
Pippo a Vernazza Rooms: $ Simple but well-presented rooms within easy walk of the train station and with lift access to rooms (a unique feature in Vernazza)!!
Is Vernazza Good Value for Money
I want to be honest and give you the best advice. Even though there is a good quantity of accommodation in Vernazza, unfortunately (in my opinion) the quality doesn’t compare well to the other towns.
So, if you want bang for your buck, then you may have better luck in Corniglia, Riomaggiore, or Manarola.
Insider Tip: The good Vernazza accommodation gets booked up early. Book in advance to get the best value for money!
Who Should Stay in Vernazza
Firstly, be warned that most of the better accommodation options involve stairs! Better mobility is required (unless you choose accommodation directly on the main street or piazza).
Vernazza is also great for young people, couples, families with older children, and anyone wanting to enjoy the youthful and vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Marconi.
It’s also great for people who enjoy the water and water-based activities.
Search and Book Accommodation in Vernazza
Monterosso al Mare
Monterosso is the easiest of the towns to navigate and the one with the most accommodation options.
There is an old and new part of town and the main thoroughfare connecting the two parts of town is reasonably flat (no stairs)!
From an accommodation perspective, Monterosso (being the largest town) is hard to beat for accommodation options. But if you want a truly iconic Cinque Terre experience then you may find yourself disappointed with Monterosso. For the famous colorful tower houses tumbling into the sea and rugged hillsides, you may prefer to be based in Manarola, Vernazza, or Riomaggiore.
Things To Consider about Monterosso Accommodation
Reasons to Stay in Monterosso
Coastal beach town feel with a flat promenade connecting the old and new towns.
Variety of restaurants with outdoor seating and sea views.
Easier access to the water for swimming right from the beach in town.
Boats connecting Cinque Terre with other parts of the coast towards Portofino.
Reasons to Avoid Staying in Monterosso
Not iconically Cinque Terre.
Parking is limited, but possible if you arrive early in the day or arrange in advance with your host.
Furthest town from Porto Venere and La Spezia.
Places to Stay in Monterosso al Mare
There is a good selection of Monterosso accommodation and a variety of accommodation styles and most of the accommodation is easy to access without having to lug heavy suitcases up narrow laneways and stairs.
Here are some options for places to stay in Monterosso with a coastal vibe:
La Casa sul Mare: $$ With views out to sea, this location is across from the famous Monterosso beach. Rooms are simple and there’s a roof terrace where you can enjoy a well-earned aperitivo with a sunset view.
Roca Du Ma Pasu: $$$ Beautiful and elegant rooms with a delicious breakfast and welcoming hospitality. Book a room with a sea view to make it extra special.
La Casa del Gigante Luxury: $$$$ This luxury apartment is set into the rock statue of The Giant at the end of Monterosso beach. It’s a unique stay that is positioned for views stretching out over the beach and sea.
Il Gigante (The Giant Statue at Monterosso) is a depiction of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea. A curious and controversial sculpture that sits at the western end of Monterosso Beach.
Is Monterosso Good Value for Money
Like Vernazza, the quality of the accommodation doesn’t compare well to the other towns. Most of the options I’ve looked at are a little dated. In my opinion, there is better value in Corniglia, Riomaggiore, or Manarola.
But if you book a few months ahead, you’ll have the pick of the best places!
Search and Book Accommodation in Monterosso
Who Should Stay in Monterosso
There are other beaches in Cinque Terre, but the beach at Monterosso is the largest and most easily accessed, so it’s great for families with young children as well as anyone else who enjoys the beach and water activities.
Together with the beach, local shops, restaurants, and bars, there is a lot happening in this little town.
So, Monterosso has a little of something for everyone and is suitable for most Cinque Terre tourists.
Decision Table of Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
Still confused?
For convenience I have summarized each Cinque Tere town below and scored them for the key factors when choosing where to stay.
Table Code:
- = Best option
- = OK option
- = Possible but not recommended
Wrap Up
In this post I’ve teased out the practical factors and reasons to stay in the different Cinque Terre villages.
Not all towns are the same, and no one town is better than another.
Everyone needs something a little different and my goal was to help you see which town is the right fit for you. I hope you can now decide (with confidence) where to stay in Cinque Terre.
We’d love to hear your thoughts and if you have the time please rate this content.
Other articles you may find useful:
FAQ
Where to stay in Cinque Terre on a budget?
All of Cinque Terre is expensive (especially in high season). In fact, even in low season, it’s hard to find (a double room) under 125 Euros per night.
For truly budget accommodation (hostel or backpacker style), you can find dorm rooms in Cinque Terre. And at certain times of the year, these dorms are less than 50 Euros per night.
Close by in Levanto or La Spezia, you can also find a bigger choice of budget accommodation.
Where to stay in Cinque Terre with family?
The best town for families (old and young) is Monterosso. The mostly flat town with a wide variety of accommodation is an easy option for families. There are also more hotels and larger apartments to accommodate bigger groups. Monterosso also has a big beach, dozens of restaurants, and lots of things to do.
Where to stay in Cinque Terre with a car?
In my post above I’ve given you several options for accommodation options that offer private parking. But in reality, driving and parking in Cinque Terre is problematic.
The best town to stay in with a car is Monterosso. There is a large public parking lot right next to the beach and close to lots of hotels and apartments.
Where to stay around Cinque Terre?
There are lots of options for convenient places to stay around Cinque Terre. Places such as Levanto, La Spezia, and Portovenere are all good local towns with easy access to Cinque Terre. I have a full article explaining your options in detail, the pros and cons, and how to get to Cinque Terre from these towns.
