1 day itinerary for Cinque Terre

Itinerary

Cinque Terre is such a beautiful place, and even with just one day, you can have an amazing family-friendly adventure. Here’s a fun itinerary that will let you soak in the stunning views, enjoy delicious food, and explore the charming villages. Let’s dive in!

Morning: Start in Monterosso al Mare

8:00 AM - Breakfast at a Local Café Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some fresh focaccia or pastries, paired with a cappuccino or a refreshing fruit juice. Monterosso has some lovely spots along the beach where you can enjoy your meal with a view!

9:00 AM - Beach Time After breakfast, let the kids splash around at the beach! Monterosso has the largest sandy beach in Cinque Terre, making it perfect for families. You can rent umbrellas and sunbeds if you want to relax while the kids play in the sand.

Late Morning: Explore Monterosso

10:30 AM - Stroll Through the Village Take a leisurely stroll through Monterosso’s charming streets. Don’t miss the beautiful Church of San Giovanni Battista and the statue of Neptune. The colorful buildings and quaint shops are perfect for some family photos!

11:30 AM - Train to Vernazza Hop on the train (it’s just a short ride) to Vernazza, one of the most picturesque villages in Cinque Terre. The train is a fun experience for kids, and it’s a great way to see the stunning coastline.

Afternoon: Discover Vernazza

12:00 PM - Lunch in Vernazza Once you arrive in Vernazza, grab lunch at a family-friendly trattoria. Try some local seafood pasta or a classic pizza. There are plenty of options with outdoor seating where you can enjoy the view of the harbor.

1:00 PM - Explore Vernazza After lunch, take some time to explore Vernazza. The colorful houses, narrow streets, and the beautiful harbor are perfect for wandering. You can also visit the Doria Castle for a little history and some fantastic views!

Mid-Afternoon: Hike to Corniglia

2:30 PM - Hike to Corniglia If your family is up for a little adventure, take the scenic hiking trail from Vernazza to Corniglia. It’s about a 1.5-hour hike, and the views are absolutely breathtaking! Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring some water. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can take the train instead.

Late Afternoon: Explore Corniglia

4:00 PM - Explore Corniglia Once you reach Corniglia, take some time to explore this charming village. It’s perched on a cliff, so the views are stunning! You can also visit the Church of San Pietro and enjoy some gelato from a local shop.

Evening: Return to Monterosso

5:30 PM - Train Back to Monterosso After exploring Corniglia, take the train back to Monterosso. The kids will love the train ride, and you can relax a bit before dinner.

6:30 PM - Dinner in Monterosso For dinner, find a family-friendly restaurant where you can enjoy some more local cuisine. Try the trofie al pesto, a local specialty, and don’t forget to order some gelato for dessert!

Night: Sunset at the Beach

8:00 PM - Sunset at the Beach After dinner, head back to the beach to catch the sunset. It’s a magical way to end your day in Cinque Terre, with the sun setting over the colorful buildings and the sea.

9:00 PM - Head Back to Your Accommodation After a fun-filled day, it’s time to head back to your accommodation. You’ll have plenty of memories and beautiful photos to cherish!

Tips:

• Make sure to check the train schedules in advance, as they can vary.
• Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and sunscreen for the day.
• If you have younger kids, consider bringing a stroller or baby carrier for the hiking portions.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic day in Cinque Terre with your family! Enjoy every moment! 🌊🏖️🌅