Riomaggiore is often the first stop for visitors to the region, thanks to its location in the southernmost part, nearest to La Spezia. This charming village is also the beginning of the famous Via dell'Amore (Way of Love), a coastal path that connects Riomaggiore to Manarola and beyond, offering breathtaking views and a romantic atmosphere. Nestled between the sea and vineyards, this picturesque village has a lively local ambiance and a host of highlights waiting to be discovered. The town spills down to the harbor, with its colorful houses perched precariously on the cliffs. Take a stroll from the harbor and you'll see the town's setting over the steep hillside. There are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the surroundings or refresh with a coffee. Riomaggiore is divided into three areas: the train station, the bustling fisherman's district, and the town center, all connected by a series of underground tunnels. These tunnels are the easiest and most convenient way to get around and explore this charming village.

Manarola, the most ancient of the five Cinque Terre towns, is a popular destination for many travelers. This charming town sits perched on the cliffs, 70 meters above the small harbor. The town's cheerfully painted houses are clustered closely together, creating a picturesque view. Although Manarola lacks a real beach, it offers a unique opportunity to swim in the deep waters of the harbor. During peak times, the streets may get busy, but the lively ambiance in Piazza Papa Innocenzo IV is worth it. The piazza is lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Manarola is renowned for its vineyards, which produce the most notable product of the town, a local wine called Sciacchetra. Wine lovers should undoubtedly sample this sweet and delicious wine that dates back to Roman times. Take a stroll past the vineyards' terraces and enjoy a glass of wine while overlooking the place where the grapes were grown – a truly wonderful experience.

Often overlooked due to its location and lack of beach access, Corniglia is the 'quiet achiever' of the five Cinque Terre towns. Perched 100m above the sea on a promontory, this town is inaccessible by sea, but you can reach the ocean by steps from the town center. Because of its geography, Corniglia is less visited and has an extremely authentic and local feel, surrounded by lush terraces of vineyards and the magnificent ocean backdrop. The town center is characterized by its tiny, narrow alleyways and pastel-colored houses, jostling for space. The town may have fewer restaurants, cafes, and shops than the other towns, but there is certainly no shortage of places to eat, drink (the local vino of course), and do some people-watching. Corniglia offers a more laidback and unassuming environment that is worth discovering.

If you want to experience the true charm of Cinque Terre, you must visit this small, authentic fishing village. It is known for being the epitome of beauty and character, and it's hard to argue with that conclusion once you've walked through its quaint streets, admired the stunning views, and delved into its compact history. The ocean can be seen from almost every angle, providing a magnificent contrast to the multi-colored houses, olive groves, and lush mountainous backdrop that defines this stretch of coastline. The village was built around a natural harbor, and many visitors arrive or leave by boat, which offers a unique way to view the scenery.

Of all the towns, Monterosso is the largest and most vibrant. It's a lively destination that warrants ample time to explore, particularly if you're in the market for souvenirs. The town is perched on a picturesque hillside, surrounded by terraced vineyards, and olive and lemon groves. It's divided into the "old" and "new" sections by a tunnel and marked by a medieval tower. Monterosso boasts the region's finest beach, Fegina. You'll find the Neptune sculpture at the end of this lovely sandy stretch. The beach has excellent facilities but can get quite crowded. If you're seeking solitude, there's a smaller pebble beach in the harbor. Though more developed and touristy than the other towns, Monterosso's modern edge only adds to its traditional charm.