We arrive in La Spezia and meet our hiking guide, who introduces us to the journey ahead and shows us our accommodation for the week. The rest of the day is free to begin discovering this lively coastal town. We wander through narrow streets that open onto sea views, soak up the relaxed Ligurian atmosphere, or head to the water for a refreshing swim. It’s a gentle start that allows us to unwind and settle into the rhythm of the Italian Riviera before our first hike.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 4-star NH La Spezia

We begin our exploration of Cinque Terre along the newly reopened Via dell’Amore, an easy and scenic path linking Riomaggiore and Manarola. After visiting Manarola and walking to the Punta Bonfiglio viewpoint, we continue through vineyards and terraces along the Manarolino path to the Church of San Lorenzo. From here, we either hike or take a short bus ride to Volastra, where we dive into the region’s heroic viticulture. We then follow the Verde-Azzurro trail to Corniglia, exploring its panoramic terraces and descending the iconic Lardarina staircase before returning by train.

Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch
Hiking: 5.0 mi (8 km)
Elevation: +/-1,640 ft (+/-500 m)
Accommodation: 4-star NH La Spezia
Activity: Wine experience (guided visit to an open-air wine museum and local wine tasting in Volastra)

We start the day with a scenic boat journey to Portovenere, a vibrant harbor town dominated by a dramatic seaside fortress. From here, we hike high above the coast on spectacular trails with uninterrupted views of the Ligurian Sea. This route offers a true taste of Cinque Terre hiking, combining elevation, exposed coastal paths, and sweeping scenery as we make our way back toward Riomaggiore. This is the most demanding hike of the week, and depending on group ability and conditions, our guide may adjust the itinerary to include Portovenere and Palmaria Island instead.

Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch
Hiking: 8.4 mi (13.5 km)
Elevation: +2,200 ft / −1,970 ft (+670 m / −600 m)
Accommodation: 4-star NH La Spezia

We transfer by train to Vernazza and explore one of the most iconic villages of Cinque Terre, including the Church of Santa Margherita, the Belforte Bastion, and the marina. A scenic coastal path leads us toward Monterosso, where we pause for a hands-on cooking experience overlooking the sea. After enjoying what we prepare, we continue walking through Monterosso’s beach, marina, and historic old town, climbing gently toward the Buranco Valley and San Cristoforo hill before relaxing on Fegina Beach. We return by train in the afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch
Hiking: 2.5 mi (4 km)
Elevation: +/-655 ft (+/-200 m)
Accommodation: 4-star NH La Spezia
Activity: Cooking class (gnocchi or testaroli with pesto, wine, and local food tasting)

After a morning visit to La Spezia’s covered market, we travel to San Terenzo and walk along the seaside promenade to Lerici, dominated by its hilltop castle. From here, we hike into the Monte Marcello–Magra Regional Park, passing through La Serra and along ancient terraces of olive trees and vines. The walk ends in Tellaro, a postcard-perfect village near the Tuscan border. Weather permitting, there’s time to relax, swim, or kayak in the bays of Fiascherino before returning by bus.

Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch
Hiking: 5.3 mi (8.5 km)
Elevation: ±1,150 ft (±350 m)
Accommodation: 4-star NH La Spezia

We transfer by train to Framura and begin along the Via del Mare, visiting secluded beaches before climbing toward the charming villages of Anzo, Setta, and Costa. Coastal trails lead us to the Salto della Lepre viewpoint and onward to the Madonnina della Punta church above Bonassola. After lunch, we follow the former railway line, now a scenic coastal path, finishing with a walk through Levanto’s historic center and learning about the medieval Via dei Monti.

Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch
Hiking: 8.1 mi (13 km)
Elevation: +/-1,310 ft (+/-400 m)
Accommodation: 4-star NH La Spezia

After breakfast, we check out and say goodbye, bringing our Cinque Terre hiking adventure to a close.

Meals: Breakfast