Corniglia

Travel Guide

Corniglia showing a coastal town and general coastal views
Corniglia
Corniglia showing a coastal town, a bay or harbour and rocky coastline
Corniglia showing markets
Corniglia showing a coastal town and general coastal views

The central Cinque Terre village high up on the cliffs offers heavenly views and an authentic old-time village spirit.

Approach Corniglia by rail. Upon exiting the train, you’ll face a zigzagging climb up about 380 steps to the village's charming centre. The Scalinata Lardarina staircase is long, but from its starting point at the Trenitalia station to its summit, it offers clear, breathtaking views out to the azure Ligurian Sea. Stop frequently to photograph the incredible vistas, including the next village of Manarola.

Corniglia is the middle village along the adored Cinque Terre trail and the only one of the five that’s not located directly on the seashore. Without a port, Corniglia seems to belong more to the bushy hinterland than to the ocean. Note its blocky pastel houses looking out over the shimmering blue sea from high on their cliffs.

It’s also possible to hike or take a shuttle bus to the village. Wander through its pedestrian-only narrow main street. The town is surrounded by terraced vineyards used for local winemaking. Sip this wine with anchovies in Corniglia’s cafés or sample gelato near the iconic and eerie statue to the village’s war dead in the town square.

Along the old village streets you’ll discover tiny beloved churches including the 14th-century San Pietro, adorned with panels of paintings. Another religious site worth visiting is l’Oratorio dei Disciplinati di Santa Caterina (oratory of the flagellants of Saint Catherine). You’ll get a stunning view from its panoramic terrace.

Corniglia and the Cinque Terre are popular year-round with visitors from across the world. Cars are not allowed into the centres of most of the Cinque Terre villages but the hills are crisscrossed with hiking trails. However, note that the direct walking trails between the five villages may close for extended periods for seasonal weather hazards and landslide risks. Be sure to check the official website for updated information on permitted trail access.

Visit Corniglia by train, shuttle bus or walking trail. For additional great views of the village, travel along the shoreline by ferry and gaze up at this pretty city atop the cliff.

Madüneta 5 Terre Guesthouse

Madüneta 5 Terre Guesthouse

Via Fieschi 5/9, Corniglia, Vernazza, SP
Stay at this guesthouse in Vernazza. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and in-room massages. Popular attractions Vernazza Beach and Monterosso Beach are ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (51 reviews)
"Pre-arrival communication with the host was great, and Massimiliano was available for questions whenever needed. The views from the rooms and the private garden are amazing. The room decor is old world but with modern conveniences. All in all, a charming place. Corniglia is a great central location ..."

Reviewed on 9 Aug 2025

Madüneta 5 Terre Guesthouse
Il Magàn - Cinque Terre

Il Magàn - Cinque Terre

Via Fieschi 204, Corniglia, Vernazza, SP
Stay at this guesthouse in Vernazza. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and room service. Popular attractions Vernazza Beach and Monterosso Beach are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (85 reviews)
"Beautiful view, lovely staff"

Reviewed on 24 Jun 2025

Il Magàn - Cinque Terre
Hotel Firenze E Continentale

Hotel Firenze E Continentale

4 out of 5
Via Paleocapa 7, La Spezia, SP
The price is €137 per night from 27 Aug to 28 Aug
€137
27 Aug - 28 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in La Spezia. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (997 reviews)
"Great spot to stay! Super super close to train station which was very convient especially if you are looking to go to Cinque Terre towns! Breakfast was good too and we loved the lobby bar to hang out in"

Reviewed on 11 Aug 2025

Hotel Firenze E Continentale
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
ELEGANT APARTMENT WITH EXTRAORDINARY SEA VIEW IN THE HEART OF THE FIVE LANDS

ELEGANT APARTMENT WITH EXTRAORDINARY SEA VIEW IN THE HEART OF THE FIVE LANDS

corniglia
Stay at this apartment in Vernazza. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Vernazza Beach and Monterosso Beach are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (147 reviews)
"The apartment is well equipped with everything we needed for our stay and amazing views! I have never stayed in a place with such beautiful scenery. The check in process was so smoothe. The host responds super fast and we changed our arrival time twice and the host was still super accommodating. ..."

Reviewed on 25 Jul 2025

ELEGANT APARTMENT WITH EXTRAORDINARY SEA VIEW IN THE HEART OF THE FIVE LANDS
Il Borgo di Campi

Il Borgo di Campi

2 out of 5
Strada Litoranea delle 5 Terre, Riomaggiore, SP
Stay at this aparthotel in Riomaggiore. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a garden, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions La Spezia Cruise Terminal ...
7.8/10 Good! (281 reviews)
"The view is amazing."

Reviewed on 25 May 2025

Il Borgo di Campi
Elegant Apartments 5 Terre La Spezia

Elegant Apartments 5 Terre La Spezia

Via Del Prione 144, La Spezia, SP
Stay at this aparthotel in La Spezia. Enjoy parking (surcharge), premium bedding, and hydromassage showerheads. Popular attractions La Spezia Cruise Terminal ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (43 reviews)
"Great place. The property owner was amazing and helped answer our questions about transportation and ideas."

Reviewed on 26 Jul 2025

Elegant Apartments 5 Terre La Spezia
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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