Several years ago I saw pictures of Cinque Terra, Italy and since arriving in Germany it's been near the top of my European travels bucket list.
One of my friend's and co-workers is getting ready to move and she was planning out a few last trips before heading back to the states.
Cinque Terra is 5 little villages along the coastline, about an hour north of Pisa.
In order, from south to north: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterossa.
After a ton of research, I decided Monterossa was the best town to stay in. It's the only town with direct beach access and it's less hilly to have to roll suit cases through : ) For less than 2 euro, you can train to any of the other villages in less than 15 minutes.
In 2011 heavy rainfall caused flash floods that resulted in landslides across the coast. The trails from Riomaggiore to Corniglia are still closed because of the damage. You can hike from Corniglia to Monterossa (although, Vernazza to Monterossa is the only "officially open" trail). If you ever go, start south and work your way north. We hiked Monterossa from Vernazza the first day, and it's nearly all uphill. Hiking from Vernazza to Monterossa would've been a little more enjoyable. The second day we hiked from Cornigila to Vernazza, and it was a great hike. Each trail took us about 2 hours.
Cool things about each town:
Riomaggiore had the best fish and chips I've ever tasted.
Manarola has the most picturesque harbor.
Corniglia is the only town not on the water. It's 300 steps up from the train station. Thankfully, there are several gelatto stands to rest at once you finish the hike up from the station.
Vernazza has a great little cafe called the "Pirate Cafe" and they have great icy cappuccinos.
Monterossa has nice beaches. It's also the largest of the towns, and is spread out between the "old town" and new area.
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