Cinque Terre, a stunning slice of the Italian Riviera, is full of colorful charm and authenticity, enticing travelers to visit its rugged shores and cliff-perched villages.
The towns, however, are not just a feast for the eyes but the perfect setting for adventures!
From sipping Limoncello to hiking from town to town and sailing past the coastline, the activities to enjoy in Cinque Terre are many. And excursions that make them happen even more!
So we’ve done the job for you and rounded up the absolute best tours in Cinque Terre. This way, you know that whichever excursion you go for is gonna be top-notch.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a culture enthusiast, prepare to be whisked away by the magic of these colorful villages. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and let’s dive into the heart of Cinque Terre!
Why should you trust me? I have been curating tours all over the world for a decade now, and have a knack for identifying the most valuable, promising excursions.
On top of that, I’m Italian, and I’ve had the privilege of traveling to the Italian Riviera quite a few times. I’m familiar with the area, and know exactly what the best tours should offer to help you enjoy Cinque Terre to the fullest.
I usually use Viator and Get Your Guide to book activities around the world. I especially recommend them for their fantastic cancellation policy. If your travel plans change, you can cancel most tours up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Limited time? These are the top tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | Pesto Making Class, Boat Tour and Lunch |
| SUNSET BOAT TOUR | Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour |
| PRIVATE TOUR | The Best of Cinque Terre Tour |
| COOKING CLASS | Pasta and Tiramisu class in Riomaggiore |
| KAYAK TOUR | Kayak experience + Snorkeling |
OUR PICK: The BEST Tour of Cinque Terre for First Timers
Dive into the vibrant hues of the coastline with a Cinque Terre Pesto Making Class, Boat Tour and Lunch. This 4-hour excursion starts in Manarola with a delicious pesto demonstration. You’ll learn all the secrets behind the authentic Genovese sauce!
Then, enjoy a scenic boat cruise past the cliff-perched towns, and stop in one of them to relish a traditional lunch with glorious views. A vegetarian menu is available upon request.
Explore the beautiful Corniglia, and conclude the trip with a train ride to Vernazza, the fourth town coming from the south.
Your adventures don’t necessarily have to end there, though! You’ll be granted a Cinque Terre trail pass to keep exploring.
Why is this the best tour? Ideal for families, this tour lets you admire the coastal sights from the water – which in my opinion is the best way to do it – and land.
On top of that, it introduces you to its local cuisine with a hands-on class, and provides a rail pass so you can keep traveling long after the tour is over!
Read what the reviews say
“This tour was excellent. The pesto class covered all the tricks to make tasty pesto. Very instructive was the comparison with pesto made in the blender. Also loved the boat tour. It was great to be on a small private boat. The driver was excellent at pointing out the beaches and towns. Highly recommend!!!’’
Kristine_P – Read more reviews
This tour includes: A guide, a pesto class, lunch, a boat tour, train rides, and a Cinque Terre rail pass. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Boat Tours in Cinque Terre
▶️ Join this Relaxing Boat Tour with Aperitif in Cinque Terre and cruise along the stunning coastline in style. Make the most of the swimming stops to dive into the refreshing Ligurian Sea, and soak up the views from Punta Montenero to Punta Mesco.
Enjoy the traditional Aperitivo of local wine and snacks as you sail past the enchanting villages and learn about them from your skipper.
Keep your camera handy, because the sea is the best viewpoint of the iconic Cinque Terre, and you’ll pass by many photogenic locations!
This tour includes: A boat tour, and aperitivo. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Hop aboard a traditional Ligurian gozzo for a Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour. You’ll set sail from Monterosso, and cruise past all five picturesque villages that make up the National Park.
Your skipper will tell you all about each town, and you’ll have beautiful photo-ops in front of their colorful, cliff-perched houses.
The stylish boat is equipped with an ample sundeck, from which the views are unrestricted. You’ll also get to explore hidden coves and dive into the refreshing turquoise waters with snorkel gear.
Onboard, sample local delights including pesto and focaccia, and sip on local wine and beer.
This tour includes: A boat tour, beverages, snacks, and snorkel gear. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Set sail from Monterosso on this Cinque Terre Lunch Boat Tour and ditch the tourist throngs. With a small group, relax on the boat as you glide past the vineyard-clad hills of Vernazza, Corniglia, and Manarola.
You’ll have a chance to snap the perfect photo of Guvano Beach’s untouched beauty and dive into the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea for a swim.
Back onboard, savor local delicacies paired with the famed wines of the region. The cruise wraps up with breathtaking views from Riomaggiore.
This tour includes: A boat tour, snorkeling gear, wine, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Comprehensive, Private Tour of Cinque Terre
Gather up your friends and join The Best of Cinque Terre Tour for a memorable full day. Your group of 8 will be whisked away from the ports of Livorno or La Spezia to the enchanting land of Cinque Terre.
You’ll explore the coastal fishing villages in an air-conditioned minivan. Enjoy free time to sightsee in Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Corniglia before catching the scenic train to Monterosso al Mare.
You’ll also enjoy strategic stops at vantage points, and make the most of the flexibility of a private tour.
This tour includes: Pick-up and drop-off, all transfers, and a private tour. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Sunset Tours from Manarola and Monterosso
▶️ Hop on board for a Cinque Terre Sunset Tour by Boat, joined by a small group of travelers and a captain. You’ll sail along the famed fishing villages as the sun sets on the horizon, taking in the stunning sights bathed in golden hues.
Your captain will provide insights into the local culture and history, and if you’re lucky, you may spot playful dolphins jumping around you! Snacks and a drink will be served onboard, enhancing the experience.
This tour includes: A sunset boat tour, snacks, and a welcome drink. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Enjoy a Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour from Monterosso al Mare to Riomaggiore, sailing along the picturesque coastline.
This romantic voyage offers stunning scenery, a chance to spot dolphins, and a swim in secluded coves. You’ll also enjoy a delicious Italian aperitivo with front-row seats to nature’s spectacle. It’s a relaxing way to end a hectic day of adventures!
This tour includes: A sunset boat tour, snorkel gear, and aperitivo. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Cooking Classes in Cinque Terre
▶️ Start your Italian culinary adventure with a Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Riomaggiore. What better way to immerse yourself in Ligurian culture than through its cuisine?
Spend a few hours learning to whip up two iconic pasta dishes and a sweet tiramisu in the cozy home of a local cook. You’ll be introduced to the regional flavors, and all the secrets behind each dish, ensuring you can recreate them at home.
End the experience with a glass of sparkling Prosecco, and a taste of your homemade meal. With a group capped at 12, the workshop is intimate and personalized.
This tour includes: A cooking class, all ingredients, recipes, a meal, and Prosecco. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Dive into the fragrant world of Ligurian cuisine with a hands-on Levanto: Pesto-Making Class. At the Laboratory of Pesto, which has been operating since 1976, you’ll be walked through the process of crafting the famous sauce.
Using a traditional mortar and pestle, and fresh ingredients, make your own Pesto from scratch. Be ready to taste the stark difference from its store-bought cousin!
Luckily, you won’t have to go back to it, as you’ll learn all the secrets behind making an authentic Italian Pesto sauce.
Limited to eight participants, this intimate experience includes local bites and a glass of white wine to enjoy with the sauce.
This tour includes: A Pesto-making class, snacks, and wine. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Kayak in Cinque Terre
▶️ Paddle away when joining this Kayak experience with Carnassa Tour in Cinque Terre + Snorkeling. It’s the ultimate adventure for water lovers!
Leaving from Stella Marina Beach, you’ll follow a local guide as you paddle into secret coves and past the coastline. Listen to tales about the region and its natural wonders, and enjoy a refreshing swimming stop to splash around and snorkel.
All the essentials are provided, so you just need to enjoy the experience, and have fun!
This tour includes: Kayak rental, snorkel gear, a guided tour, a waterproof bag, and access to showers and changing rooms. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Set off for a Cinque Terre Half Day Kayak Trip from Monterosso. Kayak across the vibrant Italian Riviera for three hours, eyeing the colorful villages and rugged cliffs.
Choose your own pace and kayak companion, as both solo and duo kayaks are available. As you paddle your way along the coastline, keep your eyes out for dolphin sightings, and stop at secluded beaches for a swim.
The tour departure time is customizable, as you can opt for a morning kayaking session, or head out in the evening to catch sunset from the sea. The latter option includes wine and snacks.
This tour includes: Kayak rental, life jackets, and a guide. The evening tour includes wine and snacks as well. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Trekking in Cinque Terre
If you fancy a picturesque escape, walk along the Italian Riviera on a Private Cinque Terre Trek & Tour. You’ll check out the region’s historical hideaways as you meander through ancient vineyards and paths that connect the towns.
You’ll visit Riomaggiore, Manarola, and Vernazza on foot, listening to stories about the area from your dedicated guide. Take in the stunning coastal views and snap photos of Via dell’Amore and Volastra’s 14th-century church.
The tour is ideal for groups eager to experience Italy at a leisurely pace and get their steps in during the 4 hours of hiking. To cap off the experience, you’ll enjoy a scenic ferry ride along the coastline, and disembark back in Riomaggiore.
This tour includes: A guide, and a ferry ride. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Wine Tours & Wine Tasting
▶️ Lace up for a scenic Vernazza: Panoramic Vineyard Trekking Tour w/ Wine Tasting. You’ll hile from Vernazza to the stunning Eroico Vineyard, a UNESCO heritage spot. The breathtaking views of the sea will more than make up for the effort!
At the vineyard, dive into the art of winemaking as you learn about its process and sip on three different types of wines, paired with local snacks. For added exclusivity, you can upgrade to a private tour.
This tour includes: A guide, a vineyard visit, wine tastings, and snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Experience the area’s scenic splendor with this Riomaggiore: Vineyard & Wine Cellar Tour with Wine Tasting. This intimate tour offers an up-close look at winemaking, steeped in local tradition and innovation.
After learning all about it, savor five exceptional organic wines that include the Triple A and the unique Sciacchetrà. This 2-hour experience promises a memorable blend of mesmerizing views and distinctive flavors.
This tour includes: Vineyard and cellar visit, and wine tasting. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Horseback Riding in Cinque Terre
Looking for a fresh way to see the Cinque Terre? Saddle up for a Horse ride on the coast of Monterosso al Mare Cinque Terre.
This intimate experience, perfect for groups of up to four, offers a unique vantage point of the Ligurian coast’s vibrant scents and colors.
You’ll bond with a horse and hop on it for a 2-hour ride in nature, riding along wood trails and soaking in the scenery. No previous experience is necessary to join.
So, are you ready for an adventure that combines the thrill of horseback riding with the beauty of one of Italy’s most picturesque areas?
This tour includes: A horseback riding experience. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
E-Bike Tour in Cinque Terre
Hop on a Monterosso al Mare: Cinque Terre National Park E-Bike Tour for an exhilarating journey.
You’ll start the trip in the quaint Monterosso al Mare, where you’ll hop on an e-bike and ride it through the town’s cultural gems and past spectacular vistas. Visit the ancient Soviore sanctuary, nestled in lush landscapes, and learn about the area from your guide.
Revel in the local flavors with tasty focaccia and a glass of wine at a panoramic spot. It will be an earned reward after covering 12 miles on two wheels!
This tour includes: An e-bike and helmet rental, a guide, bottled water, focaccia, and wine. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Cinque Terre Tours from La Spezia
▶️ Set sail on this Cinque Terre Boat Tour from La Spezia, a trip that whisks you away from the land for 5.5 hours of sea adventure.
You’ll cruise the Ligurian Sea toward Cinque Terre, and take in the fairytale-looking villages from the best vantage point there is: the water!
Glide past the colorful houses and dramatic rocky landscapes, with occasional stops for swimming. Get close to Portovenere’s majestic Romanesque church of San Pietro, and step foot in Monterosso al Mare.
You’ll have time to try local cuisine and soak up the lively atmosphere before returning to La Spezia.
This tour includes: A boat tour. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Spend a jam-packed day on the coast with this Cinque Terre Tour by Train with Limoncino from La Spezia.
Discover the treasures of Cinque Terre after catching a train to Vernazza, home to pastel-colored houses and a pristine beach. You’ll have free time to soak up its wonders, and then head to Monterosso al Mare, the largest town.
Relax at the beach, wander around its streets, and savor delicious Limoncino in a traditional shop.
Finally, take the train to Riomaggiore, where you’ll enjoy staggering views of the coast and peek into the daily lives of local fishermen. You’ll return to La Spezia at the end of the day.
This tour includes: All transfers, a tour guide, free time in each town, and limoncino tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tours To Cinque Terre from Florence & Milan
▶️ Set off from the city of Reinassance with this Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with Optional Hiking. Prepare to explore the fishing villages with a professional guide and hassle-free transfers.
You can choose between a vigorous hike along sun-drenched trails or a train journey to travel between the cliffside towns.
Revel in the spectacular coastal vistas and soak up the local culture and slow pace of life of the picturesque villages. Wander through vibrant markets, relax in cozy cafés, and enjoy dips in the azure waters during your free time!
The tour wraps up with a scenic boat ride from Monterosso to Riomaggiore, showcasing this UNESCO site’s rugged beauty.
This tour includes: All transfers, a guide, a boat ride, free time, and optional hiking. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Zip from the capital of fashion on this Milan: Cinque Terre Full-Day Guided Trip With Cruise. Spend an entire day exploring the rustic fishing villages, traveling around them by van, boat, and train.
Accompanied by a savvy guide, you’ll get to fully soak in every angle of this UNESCO-listed site, learning about its history and culture. Spend time in Monterosso al Mare, and from there take a scenic boat ride along the coastline.
Snap pictures of the colorful towns and the awe-inspiring Portovenere as you sail to La Spezia. There, you’ll catch the coach back to Milan.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, a guide, train rides, and a boat cruise. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
