A Guide to the 10 Most Picturesque Views of Cinque Terre
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Coastal destinations aren’t really high on my travel list. I’m from an island in the Pacific, where I can visit over a dozen beaches just a few hours away. Because of that, I’ve gotten used to the sea, and coastal places don’t excite me the way they used to. But Cinque Terre is different. It’s one of the most beautiful coastal places I know, and the views from the viewpoints I’ll share with you today will prove it.
Cinque Terre is a beautiful coastal area in Northern Italy, home to five unique villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. These villages are known for their colorful houses that seem to cling to the cliffs, as well as the vineyards and olive groves that cover the terraced hillsides. The scenery is breathtaking, with blue waters stretching to the horizon and green hills surrounding the towns.
Visiting Cinque Terre is a great experience for anyone who enjoys history, culture, and nature. You can explore the walking paths that connect the villages, take a train or boat between them, or even rent a bike. To make your trip even better, try the local food and wine, which are fresh and full of flavor. If you’re interested, you can also learn about the region’s traditions and festivals, which bring the community together throughout the year.
Map of Cinque Terre’s Viewpoints
Here’s a map to give you an idea of where these scenic spots are located in Cinque Terre. Feel free to move around or zoom in on the map for a better view.
Views from Cinque Terre’s Scenic Spots
There are a couple of dozens of viewpoints in Cinque Terre, but these are the ones I think are worth the hike or effort. Just so you know, I’ve linked the coordinates so you can find the exact spots where these photos were taken. You’ll find the link inside the drop-down descriptions under each photo, along with what to expect and directions on how to get there. Let’s go!
Map Coordinates: 44.138794, 9.635143
Accessible from Monterosso, the northernmost village of Cinque Terre, Punta Mesco and its surrounding hiking trails offer a unique vantage point. From here, you can take in the breathtaking panorama of the entire Cinque Terre national park coastline.
On a clear day, Punta Mesco provides a spectacular view where all five villages of Cinque Terre come into sight. The vista stretches even further, reaching as far as the Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto Islands, nestled in the southernmost part of the national park.
Perched at an elevation of 280 meters (918 feet) above sea level, Punta Mesco offers views that are simply unparalleled from any vantage point on a boat. While the vistas may not rival the grandeur of Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher, they possess a unique drama of their own, particularly during the ethereal glow of sunset or the mysterious veil of a misty morning.
If you’re planning to take in the sights of Punta Mesco from Monterosso, be sure to set aside a good 2 to 3 hours of your day. This should provide ample time for a round-trip hike, plenty of sightseeing, and a few restful moments to simply soak in the scenery.
In an ideal scenario, you could find yourself at Punta Mesco from Monterosso within an hour. However, be warned that the hiking trail might pose a challenge for beginners. Over half of the trail features a steep incline of more than 20%. To make your journey more comfortable, consider bringing along a trekking pole or knee support. Be prepared for a workout, as the majority of your ascent to the cape’s highest point will involve climbing stairs.
The trek to Punta Mesco can be quite hot during the summer months, given the lack of tree cover along the path. However, once you reach the top of the cape, you’ll find an old military observatory where you can take a breather in the shade while soaking in the stunning views of Cinque Terre.
Adding a touch of historical intrigue to the location are the ruins of Sant’Antonio del Mesco, situated near the viewpoint. This unique feature sets Punta Mesco apart from other destinations on this list, in my opinion.
The journey to Punta Mesco is refreshingly uncomplicated. There are no confusing forks in the path leading to other destinations. Moreover, the hiking trail is clearly marked, making it virtually impossible to lose your way. To reach the viewpoint from Monterosso, simply head west towards the cape and you should find yourself there within an hour.
While Monterosso boasts the most stunning beach in Cinque Terre, Punta Mesco stands as its sole scenic spot in my experience. Now, let’s turn our attention to Vernazza, the charming town nestled to the south of Monterosso.
Map Coordinates: 44.136523, 9.681431
While Vernazza may have a smaller beach compared to Monterosso, the town itself is a sight to behold, eliminating the need for an hour-long hike to appreciate its beauty. The pastel-colored houses dotting the shoreline and the absence of car traffic lend a charming air to this fishing village, making it an unmissable spot in Cinque Terre.
Unique among the Cinque Terre villages, Vernazza features a natural port. The sight of its lagoon, nestled amidst a kaleidoscope of colorful houses, is, in my view, a must-see in Cinque Terre. Adding to the enchanting vista are the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia and Doria Castle, which lend an almost fairytale-like quality to the bay of Vernazza.
Wondering where the most picturesque view of Vernazza’s port can be found? Look no further than the hiking trail that winds its way through the vineyards opposite the tiny peninsula adorned with Vernazza’s colorful houses. This spot is tucked away behind the tower of the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, easily accessible from the beach or Piazza Guglielmo Marconi.
For the exact location, simply click on the coordinates provided at the beginning of this section.
The picturesque spot in Vernazza is conveniently accessible from the village center or beach via the path that runs alongside the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia. Comprised mostly of stairs, the route is not overly long.
At a moderate pace, you can reach the viewpoint within a mere 10 minutes. However, be aware that this path can become crowded with tourists during peak season, as it forms part of the Monterosso – Vernazza hiking trail. It’s best to manage your expectations and be prepared for the possibility that you may not have the view all to yourself.
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect spot to capture the vibrant houses and port of Vernazza in a photograph, this viewpoint is just the place. However, Vernazza has another scenic spot up its sleeve that you might want to check out. Perched above the beach and offering a panoramic view of the entire village, this next location is certainly worth a visit (see the next scenic spot for details).
Map coordinates: 44.134240, 9.684691
The next picturesque location in Cinque Terre is perched on a small cliff overlooking Vernazza’s beach. Just as easily accessible as the previous viewpoint, this spot is nestled along the trailhead of the Vernazza Sentiero Azzurro trail to the south of the town, right next to the old watchtower.
In my opinion, the view from the Vernazza Sentiero Azzurro trail offers a more scenic panorama than the one from Vernazza’s vineyard viewpoint, given its higher elevation. From this vantage point, you can take in even more of Cinque Terre’s stunning seascape. It’s an absolutely breathtaking sight, especially when bathed in the warm glow of sunset!
From the vantage point of the Vernazza Sentiero Azzurro trail, your gaze will sweep from the sun-kissed beach to the expansive Ligurian Sea. It encompasses the headland, upon which a third of the village is perched, extending all the way to the cape where Punta Mesco stands majestically.
The view is a breathtaking panorama of cliffs layered one behind the other, their outlines gradually fading into the mist, stretching all the way to the sandy shores of Monterosso.
The tower of Castello Doria stands as a prominent feature from this viewpoint. Perched atop the promontory of Vernazza, it serves as a stark reminder of the town’s fortified past, with roots tracing back to the late 11th century. This historical landmark is a tangible connection to bygone days, sparking images of epic naval battles between pirates and the Italian royal navy in the surrounding waters.
Reaching the scenic spot on the Vernazza Sentiero Azzurro trail from the beach is a quick 5-minute journey. Start by heading towards the train station from the beach.
Keep an eye out for a small alley on your right, marked with a sign indicating the path to Corniglia. Proceed down this narrow alley, following the small signposts that guide you towards Corniglia. This path also leads to the scenic spot on the Vernazza Sentiero Azzurro trail. Once you catch sight of the old watchtower, you’ll know you’re almost there – just a few more steps to go!
Just to clarify, Sentiero Azzurro is the picturesque hiking trail that links the towns of Corniglia and Vernazza. It’s renowned as one of the most scenic trails in Cinque Terre, offering breathtaking views of Corniglia, majestically perched atop a towering cliff that overlooks the sea.
Map coordinates: 44.129411, 9.699229
The Sentiero Azzurro trail, stretching between Corniglia and Vernazza, is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque hiking routes in Cinque Terre. Spanning a distance of 3.5 kilometers (or 2.2 miles), you could technically complete the hike in an hour. However, with the captivating beauty that surrounds you, I suspect you might take a bit longer to drink it all in.
Nestled at the trail’s highest point is the Hamlet of Prevo, a quaint settlement perched 208 meters (or 682 feet) above sea level. This charming hamlet is home to a handful of houses, sprawling vineyards, cozy hostels, and offers a breathtaking panorama of Cinque Terre’s rugged southern coastline.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider renting a room in one of Prevo’s hostels for an even more spectacular view. But rest assured, the vistas along the Sentiero Azzurro trail are sure to leave you in awe.
So, what sights await you in the Hamlet of Prevo? The main attraction is the dramatic view of the village of Corniglia, perched atop a cliff in Cinque Terre. It may seem simple, but the sheer majesty of the scene, particularly when a thin veil of mist shrouds the cliffs, is truly awe-inspiring. As the cliffs recede into the distance, they gradually fade from view.
On a clear, sunny day, the vista from Prevo stretches from Guvano Beach below to Maranola and Riomaggiore, and even further. But that’s not all! You can also catch sight of the islands of Capraia, Gorgona, Isola d’Elba, and even France’s Capo Corso island from this vantage point.
The Sentiero Azzurro trail in Cinque Terre boasts not one, but three scenic spots! Aside from Vernazza and Prevo, there’s a third viewpoint that you’ll come across shortly after leaving Prevo, assuming you’re traveling from Vernazza. This spot is located near Corniglia, and we’ll delve into its details next.
Map coordinates: 44.125773, 9.705484
Corniglia, the third and central village of Cinque Terre, stands out for its unique location. Perched 100 meters (328 feet) above sea level, it’s the only village not directly adjacent to the sea.
Corniglia is adorned with colorful houses, but in my opinion, its beauty is best appreciated from a distance. This allows you to take in the breathtaking headland upon which it’s built, along with the surrounding cliffs, rather than just the close-up view of vineyards and terraces.
While you can catch a glimpse of Corniglia from Prevo, the viewpoint on the Sentiero Azzurro trail near Corniglia offers a closer yet equally stunning perspective. From this vantage point, the vibrant colors of Corniglia’s houses are even more vivid compared to the view from Prevo.
So, where can you find this breathtaking viewpoint on the Sentiero Azzurro trail? It’s nestled midway between Prevo and Corniglia, perched above the southern end of Guvano beach. The viewpoint is right on the cliff’s edge, offering an unobstructed panorama with no trees in the way.
This scenic spot in Corniglia on the Sentiero Azzurro trail is just a kilometer (or 0.6 miles) away from both Prevo and Corniglia. A leisurely 15 to 20-minute hike from either village will bring you to this stunning location. If you’re planning to catch a sunset in Corniglia, this is undoubtedly the place to be.
If heights make you a bit nervous, don’t worry! While the viewpoint is located at the edge of a cliff, Sentiero Azzurro has taken safety measures. The trail is equipped with wooden railings and a safety net to ensure you can enjoy the view without any fear. Just remember not to lean too heavily on the railings.
Map Coordinates: 44.107448, 9.725579
Venturing further south, we encounter Manarola, the fourth village in Cinque Terre. Many visitors consider it the most enchanting village in the national park. However, if you were to ask me which village is the most scenic, I’d have to say it’s a toss-up between Vernazza and Riomaggiore.
Like Vernazza, Manarola is adorned with beautifully multicolored houses and boasts a harbor that’s simply irresistible to photographers. The bay’s blue waters, which sometimes take on a turquoise hue, provide a stunning contrast to the warm, bright colors of the houses perched on the village’s promontory. All in all, Manarola is a delightful coastal village that seems straight out of a fairytale.
Nestled in a valley, Manarola is surrounded by terraced hillsides and vineyards. For a truly breathtaking view, you can ascend to certain parts of the vineyards that overlook the village. The ridge atop the vineyards, located north of Manarola’s village center (known as Trail 6P), offers a hiking trail. From here, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Cinque Terre’s stunning coastline.
If you’re seeking a view of Manarola that rivals the panorama of Corniglia from the Sentiero Azzurro above Guvano beach, I recommend a visit to Volastra. This quaint village, another gem in Cinque Terre located north of Manarola, offers a stunning overlook of Manarola’s headland – a truly scenic spot in Cinque Terre!
However, the most picturesque point in Manarola is conveniently close to the village itself. There’s no need for lengthy hikes or drives. This coveted viewpoint in Cinque Terre is nestled in the small cape where Manarola’s cemetery is located. It’s arguably the most famous and frequently photographed view in the area!
The small headland of Manarola isn’t entirely a cemetery. In fact, the cemetery only occupies about a third of it. The remaining two-thirds of the cape function as a park, specifically designed for admiring the most photogenic part of the village.
Looking north, you can see all the way to Corniglia and even as far as Punta Mesco, near Monterosso. The sight of colorful houses perched on a towering rock overlooking the azure harbor is truly picturesque, especially in the late afternoon. At this time, the sunlight enhances the warm hues of the houses, transforming them into a spectacular visual feast!
Map Coordinates: 44.102906, 9.732156
Visitors and locals alike can stroll between Manarola and Riomaggiore, the fifth and final main village of Cinque Terre, along a charming pedestrian path known as Via dell’Amore, or the Way of Love.
This scenic 1-kilometer (0.6 miles) walkway, part of the Sentiero Azzurro, winds its way along the Cinque Terre coastline. The path earned its romantic name as a popular rendezvous spot for lovers from both villages.
After a rockslide in 2012, authorities closed Via dell’Amore for repairs. It was expected to reopen in 2023, and as of now (2025), it’s open again. Check out the Street View below to get a glimpse of the amazing scenery waiting for you on Via dell’Amore.
The rugged coastline and the cliffs diving into the sea present an undeniably picturesque scene, especially when viewed at the same time of day as the Streetview image above. Near both ends of the tunnel, the breathtaking vista of Cinque Terre’s rugged coastline unfolds at the tip of a bay.
I must also highlight the fascinating rock formations near the entrance of Via dell’Amore on the Riomaggiore side. The tidal-eroded rocks, with their unique line patterns, are proof to nature’s creativity and are truly a sight to behold!
Map Coordinates: 44.098126, 9.737553
Riomaggiore, the fifth main village in Cinque Terre, holds the distinction of being the southernmost town and the closest to the city of La Spezia. Much like Manarola, Riomaggiore is nestled within a valley and features a quaint bay that serves as the heart of its charm.
While visiting the area where the boats are moored offers a lovely view, it’s not necessarily the best vantage point to fully appreciate Riomaggiore. For a truly breathtaking perspective of Cinque Terre’s cliffs and coastline, I recommend venturing to the breakwater. Just be mindful of your footing on the large rocks!
Close to the tip of Riomaggiore’s seawall, there’s a viewpoint that offers a unique perspective of the village center from the sea. This spot is particularly popular for photography.
However, if the waves are high and the rocks are wet, it’s best to avoid venturing out there for safety reasons. Despite this, the view remains stunning, especially from afternoon into evening when the village lights illuminate the scene.
In my opinion, the most picturesque spot in Riomaggiore, and arguably the most Instagram-worthy, can be found at the open space corner overlooking the harbor on Via San Giacomo. From this vantage point, your gaze will sweep across the vibrant houses of Riomaggiore, the unique rock formations along the coast, and the rugged cliffs of Cinque Terre, before finally coming to rest on the vast expanse of the sea.
This scenic spot is easily identifiable from the port, as it’s often bustling with people capturing their own snapshots of this stunning view.
Riomaggiore, like all the other villages in Cinque Terre, is best experienced during the golden hour, right up until sunset. From the viewpoint on Via San Giacomo, the sight is truly breathtaking. One particular house, painted a vibrant red, stands out and catches your eye.
Getting to this viewpoint is a breeze. If you’re arriving from the train station, a mere five-minute walk will bring you to this spectacular spot.
Map Coordinates: 44.096064, 9.745169
Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre is home to another picturesque spot. However, unlike the easily accessible viewpoint on Via San Giacomo, this one requires a bit more effort to reach. It’s nestled near the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero church, perched high on a ridge that stands 335 meters (or 1099 feet) tall, located to the south of the Riomaggiore village.
The Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero, also known as the Shrine of Our Lady of Montenero, holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Riomaggiore. This cherished place of worship has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century.
A hiking trail, known as 593V (formerly 3a), connects this shrine to the village of Riomaggiore. The trail spans approximately 3.5 kilometers or 2.2 miles.
Among all the scenic spots in Cinque Terre, the Shrine of Our Lady of Montenero stands out as it is the highest point, offering truly breathtaking views. On a clear, sunny day, you can see beyond the cape where Punta Mesco lies to the north. Looking southward, you’ll be able to spot the Palmira, Tino, and Tinetto Islands.
From the Shrine of Our Lady of Montenero, you can enjoy a panoramic view of various Cinque Terre villages. Specifically, this scenic spot provides a stunning overlook of Riomaggiore. In the distance, you can also catch sight of the charming villages of Volastra, Corniglia, and Monterosso al Mare.
To reach the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero, begin your journey at Piazza Vignaioli, the village square. If you’re facing the sea, you’ll find a set of stairs on your right, known as Via Antonio Gramsci. Continue your ascent, climbing these stairs until you arrive at the Riomaggiore cemetery.
Along the way, you’ll come across a road called Via di Loca, but don’t be tempted to turn. Instead, keep climbing upwards. As you progress, you’ll pass by beautiful terraces and vineyards. Beyond the cemetery, another stairway awaits. Proceed along this path. From this point onwards, the views are already quite scenic!
The climb might seem endless, but the breathtaking views will keep you motivated. Once you reach the end of the stairway at the Bivio Riomaggiore bus stop, continue straight under the bridge. You’ll soon spot a bar named “Bar Il Sole a 180 Gradi.” Head towards it and keep walking until you notice a small stairway on your left. Ascend these stairs, and within a few minutes, you’ll find yourself at the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero.
The majority of the hiking trail is uphill, so it might be a bit of a workout. But remember, the most stunning views often come after the toughest climbs! Be sure to pack water, wear appropriate footwear, and bring trekking poles if you think you’ll need extra support for your legs and knees.
If you’re looking for a shortcut, consider taking the bus from Riomaggiore village to the cemetery and start your hike from there. Some buses even stop at the top of the stairway from Riomaggiore’s cemetery, at the Bivio Riomaggiore bus stop. This could be the quickest shortcut to your destination.
Map Coordinates: 44.048228, 9.832417
The final scenic spot on our list isn’t actually located in Cinque Terre. However, it’s an exceptional place to visit if you want to take in the stunning coastline of Cinque Terre from the south. This picturesque location is known as Chiesa di San Pietro, or the Church of Saint Peter.
This Roman Catholic church, nestled in Porte Venere, is perched on a narrow headland that offers panoramic views of the entire Cinque Terre coast. The church, with its distinctive striped design, has a rich history dating back to the 5th century when it was built on the site of a former pagan temple.
From the vantage point of the Church of Saint Peter, you’re treated to a panoramic view of the vast Ligurian Sea. Your gaze can sweep from the Palmira Island in the south to the picturesque Cinque Terre in the north. The awe-inspiring sight of mainland Italy’s towering cliffs in Porto Venere and Cinque Terre’s rolling headlands are a sight to behold!
On a clear day, you might even spot the tiny islet of Scoglio Ferale. For an even better view, you can ascend to the church’s roof deck. But if you’re looking for that perfect, social media-worthy shot, head down from the roof deck to the covered area where the arcades are. These arcades can serve as a beautiful frame for the breathtaking views outside.
If you find yourself in Riomaggiore and wish to visit the Church of Saint Peter in Porto Venere, you can easily do so by taking a ferry. However, if ferry travel isn’t your preference, there’s an alternative. You can take a train back to La Spezia and then catch a bus to Porto Venere.
Beyond Cinque Terre
For more amazing places to visit nearby, check out WanderInEurope’s travel bucket list for Northern Italy. There’s so much to see, and skipping them would mean missing out on incredible experiences. From the breathtaking alpine views of the Dolomites to the rich history of Italy’s famous cities, there’s still so much beauty waiting to be explored.
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