Manarola Travel Guide: What to See, Eat, and Do in Cinque Terre’s Most Romantic Village

Introduction to Manarola – Manarola is a postcard-perfect seaside village in the heart of Italy’s Cinque Terre. Perched on a rocky cliff 70 meters above the Ligurian Sea, it charms visitors with its multicolored houses, tiny harbor, and steep vineyard terraces (The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre) (Poi). As the oldest of the five Cinque Terre towns (dating back to the 1200s), Manarola has a rich history – its very name may come from an ancient “magna roea” (large mill wheel) once in the village (Poi). Stroll the narrow carrugi (lanes) and you’ll find a laid-back fishing village vibe blended with romantic scenery. From the historic Church of San Lorenzo (built in 1338) and its standalone bell tower (Poi), to the bustling little piazza by the harbor filled with fishing boats and sunbathers, Manarola offers an authentic slice of Ligurian life. It’s a place where you can sip local white wine on a terrace at sunset, watch daring locals dive into deep azure waters, and feel time slow down. No wonder so many travelers fall in love with Manarola’s timeless charm and spectacular coastal views – it’s a must-visit when exploring the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre (Home – Cantina 5 Terre English).

One Day in Manarola: Top Sights & Activities

If you only have one day in Manarola, don’t worry – you can still experience the highlights of this enchanting village. Here’s how to make the most of a single day:

• Morning Stroll & Village Sights: Start your day wandering down Via Renato Birolli, Manarola’s main street, which is lined with gelato shops, cafes, and local boutiques. Notice the small wooden boats pulled up along the road – locals haul them into town when seas are rough (The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre), a reminder that fishing is still part of daily life here. Walk uphill to visit the Church of San Lorenzo (also called the Chiesa di San Lorenzo), a beautiful Gothic-style church with a rose window and simple interior dating to the 14th century (Poi). Out front, the stone piazza offers a nice view of the terraced houses below. Just behind the church is an old watchtower (the church’s bell tower), built apart from the church – it once served as a lookout for pirates in the 16th century! (Poi). From here, meander through the tiny alleys – you’ll find hidden corners, pastel facades, and maybe a local nonna hanging laundry from a window.
• Harbor & Swimming: By late morning, make your way down to Manarola’s harbor. It’s a small slip of a port with a boat ramp and a concrete pier, but it’s the social hub of the village (The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre). You’ll often see colorful rowboats bobbing in the water or parked on the ramp, and sunbathers stretched out on the surrounding rocks. There’s no sandy beach, but the harbor’s deep-water swimming is among the best in Cinque Terre (The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre). If the weather’s warm, join the locals and travelers for a dip in the clear blue sea – the water here is usually calm and irresistibly refreshing. Adventurous souls even jump off the rocks (with care)! Dry off in the sun or relax at the tiny piazza by the harbor with a cold drink.

• Lunch with a View: For a quick yet delicious lunch, consider grabbing a bite at Cappun Magru Bistrot, near the church. This casual spot (with a few outdoor seats) is named after cappun magro, a traditional Ligurian layered seafood-and-veggie salad. In fact, they serve an excellent version of the namesake dish (reservation recommended to try it) (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International). They also offer tasty “marine” sandwiches stuffed with fresh fish, perfect for a light meal (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International). If you prefer a sit-down lunch by the water, Il Porticciolo on the main street is a beloved option – they cook up fantastic seafood pasta (their black squid ink spaghetti loaded with mussels, clams and prawns is legendary) (Where to Eat in Manarola, Cinque Terre). Whatever you choose, pair your meal with a local white wine. The Cinque Terre region produces its own crisp white wines and the sweet Sciacchetrà dessert wine – a taste of the terroir you won’t want to miss.
• Afternoon: Scenic Walks & Views: After lunch, take an easy walk to soak in Manarola’s iconic views. One popular short walk is up to the Punta Bonfiglio viewpoint. From the harbor, follow the path that climbs toward the headland (you’ll pass a small playground and Nessun Dorma café). In just 5–10 minutes, you’ll reach a panoramic spot overlooking Manarola’s stacked houses tumbling toward the sea – this is the postcard view you’ve likely seen on Instagram and guidebooks. It’s especially gorgeous in the afternoon light. For an even higher viewpoint, continue up the trail towards the cemetery (yes, Manarola’s hilltop cemetery boasts one of the best views around!). From up there, you can see the entire village and coastline in one sweeping glance, with vineyards cascading down the hillsides. Keep your camera handy – every angle is breathtaking.
• The Famous Via dell’Amore (Lovers’ Lane): If time permits, consider walking a portion of the Via dell’Amore, the legendary cliffside path connecting Manarola to Riomaggiore. Good news: after years of closure, the Via dell’Amore fully reopened to visitors in mid-2024 (The Via dell’Amore was reopened on August 9, 2024). Entrance is now regulated to preserve the trail – during high season it’s open 8:30am–9:30pm, and in winter until 5pm (The Via dell’Amore was reopened on August 9, 2024). You can currently only walk it in one direction, from Riomaggiore to Manarola (The Via dell’Amore was reopened on August 9, 2024). This means to experience it, you’d start by taking a 2-minute train ride to Riomaggiore, then walking back toward Manarola along the approximately 1 km (0.6 mi) paved path. The walk takes about 30 minutes at leisure pace. It’s an easy, mostly flat stroll with spectacular sea views – sheer cliffs to your right and the sparkling Ligurian Sea to your left. Along the way you’ll see lovers’ graffiti and padlocks (a tradition on this “Lovers’ Lane”). Note that visitor numbers are limited (100 people per timed slot) and you should reserve a time slot online (via viadellamore.info) or at the park office (The Via dell’Amore was reopened on August 9, 2024). If you can snag a reservation, this romantic walk is a highlight of any Cinque Terre trip. Tip: If reservations are full or you prefer a free alternative, you can hike the steep old trail over the hill (Trail #531, also called Via Beccara) that connects Manarola and Riomaggiore – it’s a much tougher 60-minute climb, but it’s always open for those up for a workout.
• Sunset Aperitivo: After an active afternoon, reward yourself with a classic Italian aperitivo. Nessun Dorma, the clifftop bar you passed earlier, is the place to be at sunset. This open-air spot is perched on Punta Bonfiglio overlooking Manarola, giving you a front-row seat to the sunset colors on the village. Nessun Dorma doesn’t serve full meals – instead, you can order excellent bruschette, cheese and charcuterie boards, salads, and of course wine and cocktails (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International). It’s famous for its pesto experience too – you can even book a fun pesto-making class here, complete with wine tasting. The atmosphere is casual and joyful, with music playing and everyone snapping photos of that perfect view. It does get busy; in peak season there’s often a line (they even have an app to queue virtually) (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International). Come a bit before golden hour to snag a table, sip a local vino or an Aperol Spritz, and enjoy the magical sight of Manarola lighting up.
• Evening Dinner: Wrap up your day with a relaxing dinner featuring Ligurian specialties. For a romantic yet unpretentious dinner, Trattoria dal Billy is a top pick. Tucked high in the village (you’ll walk uphill or take a lot of stairs to get there), Dal Billy rewards you with panoramic terrace seating and delicious seafood. It’s frequently cited as one of the best eateries in town (Rick Steves and other travel gurus love it) (Where to Eat in Manarola, Cinque Terre), so reserve ahead if possible. Their menu highlights the catch of the day – think grilled fish, stuffed mussels, octopus salad – and homemade pastas. The mixed seafood antipasto is a renowned starter here, offering a little taste of many ocean delicacies. Their pasta al nero di seppia (squid ink pasta) is another favorite, loaded with seafood goodness (Where to Eat in Manarola, Cinque Terre). The staff often cap off your meal by bringing complimentary local limoncello or grappa, inviting you to linger and savor the experience (Where to Eat in Manarola, Cinque Terre). Alternatively, if you’re craving pizza or something different, La Regina di Manarola is a newer restaurant/pizzeria with a scenic terrace and creative twists on Ligurian cuisine (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International). Wherever you dine, end the night with a slice of tiramisù or a scoop of creamy gelato as you toast to a fantastic day in Manarola.

Two Days in Manarola: Deeper Exploration

With two days in Manarola, you can slow down and enjoy the village more fully, as well as venture further into the surrounding hills and sea. Here’s an idea of how to spend that extra time:

Day 1 – Discover Manarola: Follow the one-day plan above for your first day: explore the village sights, enjoy a swim, catch the viewpoints, and soak up the sunset. Perhaps on your first evening, have a casual dinner (say, pizza or fresh calamari at a harborfront café) to keep things easy. Get a good night’s rest, because Day 2 involves a bit of adventure!

Day 2 – Hike, Sip Wine & Relax: After breakfast (maybe a cappuccino and focaccia from a local bakery), set out for a longer hike into Manarola’s terraced vineyards. The most popular trail from Manarola leads up to the hamlet of Volastra and onward to Corniglia. This hike offers jaw-dropping views and a closer look at the famous terraced wine country of Cinque Terre.

• Hiking to Corniglia via Volastra: Start by locating trail #506 (also marked as #6p) which begins near Manarola’s parking area. The first section is a steep climb – about 1,200 stone steps zigzagging up through terraced vineyards to Volastra (The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre). It’s a hearty workout, but you can cheat a bit: there is a local shuttle bus that runs from Manarola up to Volastra (about every hour, €2) if you want to skip the big ascent (The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre). Once in Volastra (a quiet hilltop village with an ancient sanctuary), pick up trail #586/#587 leading toward Corniglia. This path is relatively flat as it meanders through vineyard terraces with stone walls (The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre). The Mediterranean sparkles below you, and you can see Corniglia and even Vernazza in the distance on a clear day. It’s truly one of the most scenic hikes in Cinque Terre – and unlike the coastal trails, this route is free (no park pass required) (The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre). Take your time and have water with you (there are some shaded spots and often a breeze up here). You might encounter a farmer tending vines or a small shrine among the grapes. After roughly 1.5–2 hours of hiking from Volastra, you’ll descend into Corniglia, the next Cinque Terre village, perched atop a cliff. Corniglia is tiny and charming – reward yourself with a good gelato or a light lunch in Corniglia’s piazza. Don’t miss the view from Santa Maria Terrace in Corniglia, which surveys the coast you just hiked.
• Afternoon Wine Tasting: Return to Manarola in the afternoon by train (a 5-minute ride from Corniglia) or, if you still have energy, hike back via the same route. After a rest, delve into Manarola’s wine culture. This village (and its neighbors) are famous for producing white Cinque Terre DOC wines and the prized Sciacchetrà dessert wine from their steep vineyards. A great way to experience this is by visiting the Cantina 5 Terre, the local cooperative winery in the nearby hamlet of Groppo. Groppo is just a couple kilometers uphill from Manarola – you can walk (~30 minutes) or take a short bus ride. At the Cantina Sociale (Cooperativa Agricoltura Cinque Terre) in Groppo, you can join a winery tour and tasting. They offer tours year-round (often by appointment) that last about an hour, where you learn about the heroic wine-growing on these terraces and see the winemaking process (Groppo, a small hillside hamlet halfway between Manarola and Volastra). After exploring the cellar, you’ll taste three wines – typically two crisp whites and the amber-colored Sciacchetrà – often paired with a bit of local focaccia or cheese (Wine tasting in Cinque Terre – CinqueTerre-travel.com). It’s a wonderful opportunity to chat with experts and appreciate the hard work that goes into each bottle. If a tour isn’t in your plan, you can still sample wines at the cooperative’s tasting room or even at some village enotecas. Cinque Terre wines are unique – dry, with mineral notes and a sea breeze finish – and tasting them in Manarola is a must for wine lovers.

(File:Manarola CinqueTerre.jpg – Wikimedia Commons) Hiking the vineyards: The slopes around Manarola are lined with grapevines on narrow terraces. Consider joining a guided vineyard walk – some local guides (and even Nessun Dorma’s team) offer tours through the vineyards, explaining the history and techniques of local winemaking (Wine Experiences | Cinque Terre | Nessun Dorma | Manarola) (Groppo, a small hillside hamlet halfway between Manarola and Volastra). One such experience is hosted by a local winemaker, Maria, from Cantina di Marinella, who leads visitors through her family’s vines above Manarola, followed by a tasting in her cantina. Walking amidst the lemon trees and vine rows with the sea glimmering below is an unforgettable experience for any active traveler. By late afternoon, you’ll have a new appreciation for the landscape (and a pleasant wine-fueled glow!).

• Relax and Unwind: After the hike and wine tasting, take some downtime. You might relax back at your hotel or find a scenic spot to read or nap – perhaps on a bench by Manarola’s boat dock, lulled by the sound of waves. If you’re up for more water time, you could even rent a kayak for an hour (in peak season there are sometimes kayak rentals by the harbor) and paddle along the coast beneath the village. With two days, you’re not as rushed, so enjoy the dolce far niente (sweet doing nothing) for a bit.
• Dinner & Evening Day 2: On your second night, try a different dining experience. Maybe you splurged on seafood last night, so tonight opt for something like La Regina di Manarola where you can have a mix of Ligurian and creative dishes plus wood-fired pizza. The atmosphere is lively and the terrace under a pergola has a splendid view (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International). For an after-dinner treat, sip a small glass of chilled Sciacchetrà – this golden raisin wine is a local specialty (often served with biscotti) and is the perfect sweet ending to your stay. If you’re visiting during December, note that Manarola is famous for its huge hillside Nativity scene made of lights – if it’s lit up, an evening stroll to see it is a must (Poi). Otherwise, simply enjoy the peaceful vibe of Manarola at night. With most day-trippers gone, the village returns to its quiet self. The illuminated pastel buildings and the sound of the sea create a magical ambiance as you bid arrivederci to this little slice of paradise.

Where to Eat: Recommended Restaurants & Cafés

Manarola may be small, but it boasts several fantastic eateries. Here are a few recommended mid-range restaurants and cafés and their specialties:

• Il Porticciolo – A friendly, popular restaurant on the main street, known for its fresh seafood pasta. Try their spaghetti allo scoglio or the famous squid ink seafood spaghetti, which comes packed with prawns, clams, mussels and a rich briny flavor (Where to Eat in Manarola, Cinque Terre). Locals also rave about the trofie al pesto here (a classic Ligurian pasta with basil pesto). Save room for their house-made tiramisu – it’s fluffy, creamy bliss (Where to Eat in Manarola, Cinque Terre). Il Porticciolo has a warm atmosphere and moderate prices, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner.
• Trattoria Dal Billy – A legendary spot perched high up in Manarola (via a steep climb or many stairs). Dal Billy rewards you with sea-view tables and excellent seafood. It’s renowned for its multi-course seafood antipasto sampler and ultra-fresh catches of the day. The menu changes with the sea’s bounty, but you might find dishes like anchovy appetizers, grilled octopus, or homemade tagliolini pasta with shrimp and cherry tomatoes. Their black tagliolini “Billy’s style” (tagliolini al nero di seppia) is a hit for seafood lovers (Where to Eat in Manarola, Cinque Terre). Portions are generous; the friendly staff often treats guests to complimentary liqueur (limoncello or grappa) after meal (Where to Eat in Manarola, Cinque Terre). Due to its popularity, a reservation is recommended. Expect a lively, family-run vibe.
• Nessun Dorma – Not a full-service restaurant but rather the iconic café/wine bar of Manarola – and a must-visit. Nessun Dorma serves bruschette topped with local pesto, tomatoes, and mozzarella, hearty salads, and curated platters of regional cheese and cured meats (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International). It’s all simple, fresh, and perfect for a light meal or snack. What truly sets it apart is the unbeatable panorama; this is where you sip a glass of Cinque Terre wine with Manarola’s colorful houses as your backdrop. Prices are reasonable, especially given the view. Come for a relaxed lunch or sunset aperitivo. (Insider tip: they offer pesto-making classes and occasional wine tastings at their affiliated wine shop in town (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International), if you’re interested in a fun foodie activity!).
• Cappun Magru – A charming little bistrot near the church, ideal for lunch or an early dinner. It’s named after Cappon Magro, the elaborate Ligurian seafood salad. Here you can actually order this namesake dish – layered with fresh fish, vegetables, and a parsley-garlic sauce – but call ahead to reserve it, as they prepare it fresh in limited quantity (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International)! The regular menu features a few daily specials based on market catch and seasonal veggies, plus delicious fish-based sandwiches and local wines. It’s a casual spot with a few tables (and a small outdoor area) that’s perfect for a quick, authentic bite of Liguria’s seafaring cuisine (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International).

Where to Stay: Mid-Range Accommodation in Manarola

Manarola has mostly small guesthouses and family-run B&Bs. Here are a few mid-range accommodations ideal for travelers (comfortable, well-located, and not ultra pricey):

• Hotel Marina Piccola – A highly-rated 3-star hotel right by the seafront. It occupies a converted old house by the harbor, just a 5-minute walk from the train station and boat dock (Home – Hotel Marina Piccola 5 Terre). Marina Piccola offers 12 rooms that are modern, quiet and recently refurbished, decorated in a clean contemporary style (Home – Hotel Marina Piccola 5 Terre). Some rooms have balconies with fantastic sea views where you can hear the waves. Despite the central location, it’s peaceful at night. The staff are known for their hospitality, and you’ll find amenities like air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. This hotel lets you wake up steps from the water – a real treat in Manarola.
• Affittacamere San Giorgio – A guesthouse (affittacamere) in the heart of Manarola, great for travelers looking for convenience and value. San Giorgio is located on Via Discovolo (the main street) near the train station, so you’re close to everything – the harbor, restaurants, and even a gelateria next door (The Best Manarola Hotels 2025: A Manarola Accommodation Guide for Every Budget!). The rooms are updated and clean, featuring AC, mini-fridges, and even terraces with sea views in some units (The Best Manarola Hotels 2025: A Manarola Accommodation Guide for Every Budget!). It’s run by a local family; reviewers constantly praise the friendly owner, Francesca, for her warm welcome and helpful tips (The Best Manarola Hotels 2025: A Manarola Accommodation Guide for Every Budget!). With a short walk to all attractions and a reputation for comfort, this guesthouse is a solid mid-range choice. (Keep in mind reception might have limited hours – common in small B&Bs.)
• Hotel Ca’ D’Andrean – A boutique hotel tucked along one of Manarola’s narrow lanes (Via Discovolo) about halfway up the village. Ca’ D’Andrean features spacious, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, some opening onto terraces or balconies (Hotel Ca’ d’Andrean – Cinque Terre – Manarola). The decor is simple and bright. A highlight is the lovely garden and patio where guests can enjoy breakfast or an evening drink under lemon trees. It’s a family-run place with a laid-back vibe. You’re only a 5-minute walk from the scenic viewpoint and not far from restaurants, but being a bit uphill, it stays quieter at night. Mid-range travelers like Ca’ D’Andrean for its peaceful atmosphere and the personal touch from the hosts.

(Note: Manarola’s accommodations fill up quickly, especially in summer, due to limited supply. It’s wise to book well in advance. Also, be prepared to walk and carry luggage up some steep paths or stairs – many lodgings are set on the hill and there’s no taxi service in the tiny village. The upside is that just about every place has charm and views galore!)

Best Hiking Trails Around Manarola

For active travelers, Manarola is a fantastic base to hit some of Cinque Terre’s best hiking trails. Here are the top walking/hiking trails accessible from Manarola:

• Via dell’Amore (Manarola–Riomaggiore Coastal Trail): Recently reopened and more beautiful than ever, the Via dell’Amore (Path of Love) is the most famous walk in Cinque Terre. This easy, paved trail hugs the cliffs above the sea for about 1 km, linking Manarola to Riomaggiore. It’s legendary for its romantic views – picture blue ocean expanses, waves crashing below, and the silhouette of the next village ahead. The trail had been closed for over a decade due to landslides, but as of August 2024 it’s fully accessible again (Cinque Terre’s Via dell’Amore Reopening Fully.) (The Via dell’Amore was reopened on August 9, 2024 – Cinque Terre). To hike it, you must start on the Riomaggiore side (as current regulations allow one-way foot traffic) (The Via dell’Amore was reopened on August 9, 2024). The path is mostly flat and takes only 20–30 minutes, making it more of a scenic stroll than a hike. However, entrance is controlled: you need a paid ticket or reservation for a specific time slot (The Via dell’Amore was reopened on August 9, 2024). Rangers often accompany groups to share the trail’s history and ensure preservation. If you’re staying in Manarola, simply hop on a 2-minute train to Riomaggiore, walk the Via dell’Amore back, and you’ll end up right above Manarola’s marina. Trail tips: Go early in the morning for softer light and fewer people, or at sunset when the golden glow is truly dreamy. Don’t forget to snap a photo at the iconic midpoint tunnel covered in love graffiti! This trail is part of the Cinque Terre National Park, so check the park’s official website for reservation info and fees.
• Manarola–Volastra–Corniglia (High Trail through Vineyards): This is the hike described earlier in the two-day itinerary, and it’s arguably the most scenic trail segment near Manarola. Unlike the closed lower coastal trail to Corniglia, the upper route via Volastra is open and free (The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre) (Conditions of trails and map – Best of Cinque Terre). Starting in Manarola, you climb up (or bus up) to Volastra, then follow a relatively level footpath through endless vineyards, olive groves, and stone walls, before descending into Corniglia. The full hike takes 2.5–3 hours, not counting breaks. It’s moderately challenging (mainly because of the initial uphill), but the payoff is huge: sweeping views of the sea and all five villages from on high. This route is part of trail #586/587/506 (the exact numbers can be confusing, but locals can point the way). Along the path, you’ll encounter informational signs about the wine terraces. In spring, wildflowers bloom along the trail; in autumn, the grape harvest adds activity. Wear proper shoes as some sections are narrow or uneven. Pack water and perhaps a snack – though if you timed it right, you can have lunch in Corniglia at trail’s end. For many, this vineyard hike is a Cinque Terre highlight and a photographer’s dream.
• Manarola–Riomaggiore via Beccara (Alternate Hill Trail): For a short but vigorous hike, consider the La Beccara trail (route 531) between Manarola and Riomaggiore. This is essentially the old trail that villagers used before Via dell’Amore existed. It’s steep and involves a lot of stone steps as it goes up and over the ridge separating the two villages. You’ll hike through Mediterranean scrub and have a few viewpoints overlooking Manarola’s roofs from above. The trail is about 1.2 km (0.75 mi) but quite vertical – allow about 60 minutes and be ready for a workout. It starts near Manarola’s cemetery and ends by Riomaggiore’s upper town (or vice versa). Unlike Via dell’Amore, this path is free and wild – a good option if you prefer a quiet hike or if the coastal path is closed/full (Hiking town to town in Cinque Terre given the segment closures). Just note it’s not recommended in extreme heat or for those with bad knees (all those stairs down can be tough). Ensure you have decent footwear. The reward is experiencing a more rugged side of Cinque Terre. Many hikers use this as a loop: one way via Beccara, return via train or vice versa.
• Manarola to Montenero (via Riomaggiore): If you’ve done the main trails and want more, there’s a path from Manarola connecting through Riomaggiore up to the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero, a beautiful sanctuary perched high above the sea east of Riomaggiore. You would follow trails up from Riomaggiore (trail 3a/501). This is a more strenuous ascent (about 1.5 hours from Manarola to the sanctuary), but at the top, you get an incredible panorama of all five Cinque Terre villages along the coast. The sanctuary is peaceful and often empty, a nice spot to catch your breath and perhaps enjoy a picnic with a view. You can return via the same route or take a different trail down to Riomaggiore. This is for avid hikers with an extra half-day to spare.

Always check the trail status before heading out, as paths can sometimes close due to weather or maintenance. The Cinque Terre National Park maintains a useful website with updated trail conditions (Conditions of trails and map – Best of Cinque Terre). In general, always carry water, wear comfortable shoes, and avoid hiking in flip-flops or sandals (you’d be surprised, some tourists try!). Also note that to access the coastal hiking trails (like Corniglia–Vernazza–Monterosso), you’ll need the Cinque Terre Trekking Card during peak season, which you can buy at any park info point or train station. The trails listed above (except Via dell’Amore) are free because they are alternate routes.

Local Wine & Winery Experiences

Manarola is at the center of Cinque Terre’s wine country, so wine enthusiasts or the wine-curious will find unique tasting experiences here:

• Cantina 5 Terre (Cooperative Winery in Groppo): Just above Manarola lies Groppo, a tiny hamlet that’s home to the Cinque Terre wine cooperative. Visiting the Cantina Sociale Cinque Terre is one of the best ways to learn about the region’s wines. The cooperative unites over 200 local growers and produces the majority of Cinque Terre’s DOC wines (Home – Cantina 5 Terre English) – including the famed Sciacchetrà, a golden sweet wine made from dried grapes. They offer guided tours and tastings where you can see their production facilities and cellar. A standard tour (often ~1 hour) will walk you through how grapes from those steep terraces are turned into wine, and usually ends with a tasting of three wines: two dry whites (with notes of citrus, herbs, and sea salt) and one Sciacchetrà (Cantina 5 Terre (2025) – All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go …) (Wine tasting in Cinque Terre – CinqueTerre-travel.com). You might sample their Costa de Campu or Costa da Posa labels – each label corresponds to grapes from a specific set of terraces. The staff are passionate and will explain the challenges of hillside viticulture. It’s an educational and tasty afternoon. You can buy bottles here often a bit cheaper than in tourist shops – a great souvenir. To visit, you can book in advance via their website or sometimes through the Cinque Terre park info. The cantina is reachable by a short bus ride or a healthy walk; if walking, just follow the road or path uphill toward Groppo (around 30 minutes). The route itself is pleasant, with vineyard views and maybe a chance to spot lizards sunning on the stone walls.
• Nessun Dorma Wine Experience: As mentioned, Nessun Dorma doesn’t just do pesto classes – they’ve also organized wine tasting walks in recent seasons (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International). One such experience involves meeting in Manarola and hiking up to a panoramic vineyard where you’ll taste wines right among the vines. These are led by a local sommelier (for example, Maria from Cantina di Marinella) in partnership with Nessun Dorma (Wine Experiences | Cinque Terre | Nessun Dorma | Manarola). You get to sample several local vintages while overlooking the sea and learn about the grapes (Bosco, Vermentino, Albarola are the native white grapes here) and the history of Cinque Terre winemaking. After the vineyard, the tour often continues to a quaint wine cellar in the village for more tasting. Keep an eye on Nessun Dorma’s website or inquire on site for schedules. It’s a fun way to combine light hiking with indulgence – you’ll earn those pours with a bit of uphill walking!
• Local Enotecas and Wine Bars: If you prefer a more low-key tasting, drop by Manarola’s small wine shops or bars. Places like Cantina di Manarola (a tiny wine bar/shop on the main street) let you sample local labels by the glass. You can also find Sciacchetrà in almost any restaurant – typically served in a small dessert wine glass. It can be pricey by bottle (due to the labor-intensive production), but trying a glass is highly recommended. The flavor is honeyed, with notes of apricot and rosemary, and it pairs wonderfully with biscotti or a sharp cheese. Some shops sell tasting kits or ship internationally, in case you fall in love with the wine.

Remember, Cinque Terre’s wine production is limited, so most wines are consumed locally. Take the opportunity to enjoy them at the source – whether on a sunny terrace overlooking the vines, in a cool cantina, or at your dinner table in Manarola with the catch of the day. Cin cin! (Cheers!)

Helpful Links

To plan your visit and get the most out of Manarola, here are some useful links:

• Cinque Terre Official Park Website – Trail Status & Cards: Before hiking, check the national park’s site for trail conditions and info on the Cinque Terre Card (Conditions of trails and map – Best of Cinque Terre). They also have details on how to book the Via dell’Amore reopening slots. (Parco Nazionale Cinque Terre)
• Manarola Village Info: A comprehensive guide to Manarola, including what to do, where to stay, and how to get there (The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre) (The town of Manarola, Cinque Terre). Great for practical tips and maps. (CinqueTerre.eu – Manarola)
• Trattoria Dal Billy – Official Site: Menu, reservations, and contacts for this famous restaurant up the hill (Contatti : Trattoria dal Billy Manarola). Handy if you want to book that special sunset dinner in advance.
• Nessun Dorma Manarola – Experiences: Find info on the popular pesto class and vineyard wine experience hosted by Nessun Dorma (Where to eat in Cinque Terre. The best addresses chosen by Gambero Rosso – Gambero Rosso International). You can usually book these activities through their site (or app).
• Cantina 5 Terre (Wine Cooperative): Learn about the cooperative winery and even arrange a tour/tasting. Their site (available in English) highlights their wines (white DOC and Sciacchetrà) and mission (Home – Cantina 5 Terre English) (Home – Cantina 5 Terre English). (Cantina5Terre.com)
• Accommodation – Manarola Hotels: Browse a curated list of accommodation in Manarola (THE 16 BEST Hotels in Manarola, , Italy | hotelsitalianriviera.com) (Home – Hotel Marina Piccola 5 Terre), from hotels to apartments. It can help you compare locations and amenities when choosing where to stay. (Booking or local accommodation portal)

Manarola offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re sipping wine on a terrace, hiking ancient footpaths, or dining on the catch of the day, this little village will leave you with lifelong memories. Buon viaggio – enjoy your time in Manarola and Cinque Terre! (Poi)