Home to a string of colourful, centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, the Cinque Terre makes for a magical excursion from Florence.
(Photo: GetYourGuide / Courtesy Keys of Italy)
One of Europe’s most striking visual landmarks, tens of thousands of visitors come to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cinque Terre each year to explore the area and marvel at the colourful houses and vineyards, harbours filled with fishing boats and trattorias serving up delicious local cuisine. A couple of hours’ drive inland is the iconic city of Florence, where a number of companies offer tours to the Cinque Terre. We’ve picked out three of the best.
Day Trip to the Cinque Terre
Visit the magical Cinque Terre on this minivan and train day trip from Florence. During the adventure you’ll get to explore the area’s picturesque seaside towns with free time to wander around charming Manarola, the ancient fishing village of Vernazza, and the quaint alleyways and narrow streets of Monterosso. There’ll also be a chance to kick back and relax on a sandy beach, and take in the stunning natural scenery of the Cinque Terre National Park. Included in the tour price are your minivan transfer, train tickets, and professional guide. From €399 per person.
Full-Day Private Tour to Cinque Terre
(Photo: Viator / Courtesy Let’s Andiamo)
Discover the Cinque Terre in a more intimate and exclusive way on this private day trip from Florence. After a pick up from your hotel, you and your small group will be transported by air-conditioned minivan or car to this magnificent coastal region. Once arrived, you’ll spend time in the cliffside villages of Manarola, Vernazza, and Corniglia, with plenty of stop-offs to admire the spectacular scenery made up of terraced hills and endless sea views. When booking, you’ll also have the option to upgrade to include an additional stop in the Tuscan city of Pisa. From €706 per group (max 3 people).
Cinque Terre hiking tour
(Photo: Viator / Courtesy Ciaoflorence Tours & Travels Srl)
Combine visits to the enchanting villages of the Cinque Terre with a challenging 3-hour hike on this extended full day tour. Leaving Florence soon after dawn, you’ll travel by bus before reaching this mesmerising part of Italy. Here you’ll explore Manarola, Vernazza, Riomaggiore and Corniglia before following your tour leader on a hike tour high above the Cinque Terre National Park. With the sea on one side and vineyards on the other, the trekking route will allow you to fully soak up the natural beauty that characterises the region. At the end of the hike, you’ll board a train for further exploration of the villages, before returning to Florence in the evening. From €91 per person.