Great Hikes

Riomaggiore to Vernazza

Cliffside trails, vineyard paths, and panoramic Mediterranean views in Italy’s Cinque Terre.

Distance

6.6 mi / 10.6 km

Elevation Gain

1,900 ft / 580 m

Best time to hike

Spring / Fall

Difficulty

Level 3/4

Walk the storied footpaths of Italy’s Cinque Terre as you hike from Riomaggiore to Vernazza, linking colorful seaside villages through terraced vineyards and dramatic coastal cliffs. This is one of the most iconic hikes in Europe. A journey where medieval villages, sea breezes, and sweeping Mediterranean views unfold with every step.

Route Overview

This unforgettable stretch of the Cinque Terre National Park begins in Riomaggiore, where the iconic cliff‑carved seaside trail known as the Via dell’Amore (the Path of Love) guides visitors toward the picturesque village of Manarola.
 
After taking in Manarola’s pastel houses and lively harbor, the path climbs steadily above the village before ascending a series of steep stone steps toward Volastra. The effort is rewarded with sweeping views over the Ligurian Sea and the patchwork of vineyards and olive groves that define the region’s terraced landscape. The journey continues through narrow vineyard paths, occasionally opening onto exposed stretches with dramatic coastal vistas. Eventually, a long descent of ancient stone steps leads to Corniglia, a charming hilltop village perched high above the water and known for its maze of narrow alleys and tranquil atmosphere.
 
From Corniglia, the trail meanders along a well-maintained coastal path toward Vernazza, one of the most photographed villages in Italy, where a natural harbor framed by colorful homes forms the scenic heart of this UNESCO-listed fishing enclave.
This hike seamlessly blends physical challenge, natural beauty, and cultural immersion,  a true Cinque Terre experience

Interactive Map and Elevation Profile

Explore this trail on a Hiking & Walking Tour

If you’re inspired to experience this trail with expert support, curated hotels, and seamless logistics, explore the full Trek Travel itinerary.

View tour

Hike Highlights

  • Walk ancient stone paths carved into cliffside terraces.

  • Pass through working vineyards producing local Sciacchetrà wine.

  • Enjoy uninterrupted views of the Ligurian Sea.

  • Connect three of the five legendary Cinque Terre villages.

  • Experience the rhythm of coastal Italian life between towns.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Riomaggiore to Vernazza hike is rated a Level 3/4 due to sustained climbs and numerous stone steps. Hikers should be comfortable with elevation gain and uneven terrain. Learn more about hiking activity levels.

The best season to hike the Riomaggiore to Vernazza hike is in the Spring and Fall months. Summer is beautiful but warmer and busier. Winter access can vary due to trail maintenance. See Trek Travel’s departure dates for this guided tour. 

Yes, this hike requires permits depending on the trail section and season. Those permits can be purchased here.  Trek Travel guided Hiking & Walking Tours provide exactly what you need you need for a vacation in Cinque Terre. Learn more about Hiking & Walking Tours.

  • Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes

  • Sun hat and sunscreen

  • Daypack with water

  • Trekking poles recommended for descents

Local vendors sell freshly squeezed lemonade and small refreshments near village entries—simple pleasures that taste even better after a climb.

More Great Hikes

Private

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Don’t see exactly what you are looking for or looking for a custom date?
Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

Hotel Differences

Trek Travel offers three hotel levels to match your style. Luxury hotels provide elegant, thoughtful touches with exceptional hospitality. Explorer hotels blend modern amenities with local charm in unique settings. Comfort hotels are casual and conveniently located near Trek Travel activities.

Activity Levels

Learn about activity levels here

Level 1:

Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Level 2:

Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Level 3:

Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Level 4:

Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic Bike:

Explore beautiful destinations with a curated blend of guided activities, local cuisine, handpicked accommodations, and itineraries to suit every traveler, from laid-back adventures to luxurious escapes.

Gravel:

Venture off the beaten path to unforgettable places, with fully-supported routes that combine gravel and paved roads in classic Trek Travel style.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Pro Race:

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Hiking & Walking:

Step into adventure with carefully designed routes, unparalleled hospitality, and deep-routed local connections.

Ride Camp:

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

Self-Guided:

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

Accept