A Backpackers Guide to Cinque Terre

“The Five Lands” as it is also called, is composed of five unique villages, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Once you’ve hiked through the terra firma, relax in Cinque Terre hostels with reasonably priced yet modern facilities.

Monterrosso al Mare has the sandiest beaches of the five villages. It is lined with Lemon trees and its fertile soil produces olives, and grapes for wine. One of the most important sites in the village is the historical Parish Church of St. John The Baptist. Some of the prominent Cinque Terre hostels located in this village include, Hotel Pasquale, Hotel Villa Steno, and La Colonina Hotel.

Vernazza showcases several historic sites, and the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, the Doria Castle, and the Shrine of Santuario Di Nostra Signora Di Reggio should be on the top of your to-do list. Vernazza has absolutely no car traffic, and is regarded as one of the few remaining ‘authentic’ fishing villages in Italy. It is home to well-known hostels like La Marina, Albergo Barbara, trattoria Gianni Franzi, and Camere Nicolina.

Corniglia is a picturesque model of a small Italian village, elegantly placed in a promontory 100 metres high, surrounded by flourishing vineyards. In order to reach it you must conquer 377 steps of brick, but you will be rewarded by an untouched Italian paradise. The best hostels here are La Torre, Caza Vacance Il Gato, and Da Cecio.

Manarola is probably the oldest among the five villages. This is the site of the Church of San Lorenzo. For excellent lodging, famous Cinque Terre hostels in this village are Mediterraneo, Ostello Cinque Terre, A Casa Cinque Terre Manarola and Il Patio. For wine aficionados, the world-renowned Sciacchetra is produced here. It is also known for the enchanting walking trail called the via dell’Amore or Love’s Trail.

Last but not the least; Riomaggiore is a modern yet thoroughly traditional town. In the heart of a Valley, there are numerous zoos, aquariums, wharfs, and bars to discover here. The accommodation in Riomaggiore manages to maintain an old-world charm, with bargain rooms in Due Gemelli, Il Borgo di Campi, and Locanda Dalla Compagnia.