5 Outdoor Activities to explore Cinque Terre
Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore, better known by the infamous name of Cinque Terre welcome you to incredible sceneries, transparent waters, stunning cliffs and a lush National Park. Get ready to explore Cinque Terre from a whole new perspective with thrilling outdoor activities!
Cinque Terre is a group of five villages in Northwestern Italy, on Liguria's coastline. Thanks to its unique landscape of crystal-clear waters, cliffs and colourful architecture, Cinque Terre has been listed as a UNESCO site since 1997. Looking at a map, you'll notice how all five villages complement each other: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore offer charming views that will leave you breathless.
If you are seeking fun-filled experiences, far from the crowds, these 5 outdoor activities in Cinque Terre will make your trip memorable. There are plenty of things to do in Cinque Terre and its fascinating National Park, allowing you to explore the area from land to sea. Kayaking tours, scuba diving experiences or e-biking excursions are only some things you can do. Whether you're counting on visiting Cinque Terre alone, with your family or with your special someone, this article will help find the adventure that suits you best!
1. Guided E-Bike Tour from Monterosso
One of the most exciting things to do in Cinque Terre is undoubtedly a bike tour. Thanks to a cycling route that runs through all five villages along the coast, you can cycle and get unparalleled views. With a guided e-bike tour from Monterosso, you'll ride around 18 km and reach a panoramic spot. This tour includes a professional guide and top-notch e-bikes, so don't worry if you didn't bring one with you! As you admire the sea, your guide will tell you some fun facts, giving you insights about Cinque Terre's history. They'll even offer you a piece of freshly made focaccia and a glass of wine. Impossible to say no!
2. Kayak Tour from Monterosso to Vernazza
If you are a sea lover, you cannot miss a kayak tour from Monterosso to Vernazza! A local guide will hand you the kayak, a paddle and a life jacket and show you the way. This tour welcomes explorers of all levels, even beginners. All you have to do is follow your instructor and enjoy an exclusive tour from Monterosso to Vernazza, the two northernmost villages. With a small group of 8 participants, you'll have an intimate and fast-paced excursion, allowing you to make the most of this unique tour! From the sea, you'll admire the cliffs and the unmistakable architecture, making this 10 km kayak tour one of the best activities in Cinque Terre.
3. Dolphin Boat Tour from Manarola
Not many people know that Cinque Terre is home to a distinctive marine life, making it one of the most fascinating coastlines of the Mediterranean. Cinque Terre is part of a large protected marine area, that welcomes groups of dolphins every summer. Thanks to this dolphin boat tour from Manarola you can sail through the crystal-clear waters of the protected marine area and watch these beautiful creatures! What better way to spend a family day than admiring dolphins? Feel free to ask your guide all the questions you might have about these animals, they'll be happy to answer! This tour also allows you to jump into the water and enjoy a refreshing swim before returning to Manarola.
4. Scuba Diving in Riomaggiore
Being part of one of the most valuable protected marine areas in the Mediterranean, scuba diving is one of the best activities in Cinque Terre. If you are seeking an unforgettable water adventure, you cannot miss this first scuba diving experience in Riomaggiore. Accompanied by a professional scuba diving instructor, you'll dive into Cinque Terre's protected marine area and get a glimpse of its rich underwater world. Perfectly designed for beginners, this first scuba diving experience welcomes first-timers - no previous experience is required! Dive from the shores of Riomaggiore, the southernmost village and reach down to 12 metres in depth!
5. Night Hike from Corniglia
If you are a nature lover, you'll be happy to know that hiking is one of the best things to do in Cinque Terre. You can explore the Cinque Terre National Park by following many different paths, going from easy and enjoyable for families to sporty for seasoned explorers. With or without a guide, you can easily follow a map and explore all the villages, from Monterosso to Riomaggiore. If you'd like to make your hiking experience special, join a guided night hiking tour from Corniglia! Thanks to a local guide, you'll discover the beauty of Cinque Terre by night. Far from the crowds and with the moon lighting your way, this adventure in Cinque Terre National Park will be memorable!
Bonus: River Trekking near Cinque Terre
If you are spending an extra day in Cinque Terre and have the chance to drive, this river trekking adventure in Stretti di Giaredo will highlight your stay! Get a good dose of adrenaline by exploring the river that flows through the Stretti di Giaredo gorge, only a 1-hour drive from Cinque Terre. All geared up and accompanied by a guide, you'll experience one of the most exciting activities in Cinque Terre!
As you can see, Cinque Terre offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from kayaking tours to scuba diving experiences. Whether you're travelling alone, with your family or partner, your Cinque Terre getaway will be full of special memories you'll cherish forever. Reaching Cinque Terre is easy, you can drive or get on a regional train from Genova or La Spezia. You can visit Cinque Terre all year round, but the best time to go is May, June and September when the weather is nice and warm. Pack a light backpack and bring a refillable water bottle with you, all five villages offer fresh water fountains - and don't forget to try some focaccia!
Check out all outdoor activities in Cinque Terre and discover the area from a whole new perspective!