How to Get to Cinque Terre: The Best Travel Options Explained with Maps
We are convinced that in the end the important thing is always to discover this fantastic territory, even if, indeed, it happens very often to wonder in the Cinque Terre how to get there!?
In fact, we are talking about one of the most fascinating gems in the whole of Italy. Therefore, it is not surprising that so many people are fascinated and wish to visit them. The desire to get there is also frequently accompanied by a sense of adventure and wonder, but also by a good dose of planning. And this is what we want to talk to you about today, to find out together with the Cinque Terre how to get there!
What is the best road to the Cinque Terre? Everyone is asking for it!
A wonderful territory, but sometimes it may not rhyme with ‘comfort’. After all, these locations are not always easy to reach. Winding streets and limited parking sometimes make the car option less tempting, while the idea of jumping on a train to immerse yourself in these enchanted lands can seem more fascinating and romantic. But even after arriving, there is still a lot to discover. The scenic paths that intertwine between the villages, the small artisan shops, restaurants that offer local culinary delights … All this is part of the unique charm of the Cinque Terre. So when people wonder how to get there, it’s not just about finding the most practical way, but also about seizing the opportunity to experience an unforgettable adventure in a special corner of the world.
How to get to the Cinque Terre by car and where to park
Generally, the vast majority of tourists wonder just how to get to the Cinque Terre by car. At the end of the day, it is the means that has always been considered most comfortable to better manage your comfort. Yet, from this point of view, the Cinque Terre represents a unique experience, since here the car is often discouraged. The steep hills by the sea and the narrow, winding streets make the driving experience not only challenging but also less convenient than other transport options, such as the train or ferry.
However, if you still want to explore these wonders by car, here are some useful directions to reach each village in the Cinque Terre:
Getting to the Cinque Terre By Car + Where to Park with GPS
Riomaggiore
Recommended exit: A12 Genova–Livorno or A15 Parma–La Spezia → La Spezia–Santo Stefano Magra tollbooth Directions: Follow signs for city center, then Cinque Terre–Portovenere Take Right at diversion Portovenere / Cinque Terre Follow the Scenic Road until you reach Riomaggiore Distance from La Spezia: ~12 km Parking: limited → arrive early
📍 Covered parking GPS: 44.0998819, 9.7429439
Manarola
Recommended exit: A12 Genova–Livorno or A15 Parma–La Spezia → La Spezia–Santo Stefano Magra tollbooth Directions: Follow signs for city center, then Cinque Terre–Portovenere Take Right at diversion Portovenere / Cinque Terre Follow the Scenic Road until you reach Manarola Parking is limited and far from the center—you’ll walk downhill with bags
📍 GPS: 44.108936, 9.733465
Corniglia
Recommended exit: A12 Genova–Livorno or A15 Parma–La Spezia → La Spezia–Santo Stefano Magra tollbooth Directions: Follow signs for city center, then Cinque Terre–Portovenere Take Right at diversion Portovenere / Cinque Terre Follow the Scenic Road until you reach Corniglia Breathtaking views, but few roadside parking spots
📍 GPS: 44.123542, 9.710406
Vernazza
Recommended exit: A12 Genova–Livorno or A15 Parma–La Spezia → La Spezia–Santo Stefano Magra tollbooth Directions: Follow signs for city center, then Cinque Terre–Portovenere Take Right at diversion Portovenere / Cinque Terre Follow the Scenic Road until you reach Vernazza Book in advance at Vernassoa Car Parking, ~1.5 km from the village Two parking areas by the same company
📍 GPS: 44.138247, 9.697627
📍 GPS: 44.138661, 9.694870
Monterosso
If you drive from Genoa Exit: A12 Genova–Livorno → Carrodano–Levanto If you drive from Pisa Exit: La Spezia, pass through the city Center then follow the road via Riccò del Golfo / Pignone Parking options:
📍 Fegina (near train station): GPS 44.144998, 9.646713
📍 Loreto (above the old town): GPS 44.149969, 9.655508
La Spezia
I🅿️ Parking in La Spezia If you’d rather avoid coastal roads, park in La Spezia.
You’ll find several options near the train station (ideal for unloading bags) or in other areas served by free shuttle buses.
Cinque Terre trains: planning and destinations
When planning a visit here, the train proves to be the most convenient and economical means of transport to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of these picturesque coastal resorts. In fact, the Genoa-La Spezia railway line offers a direct connection to each town in the Cinque Terre, making access to this beautiful region simple and accessible.
Every village in the Cinque Terre has a train station, and the most convenient way to explore them all is to take the train that connects the stations along the coast. However, it is important to keep in mind that especially during the summer months, when the tourist flow is higher, the vehicles can be crowded and subject to delays. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your trips a little in advance to avoid inconveniences.
Also pay attention to the purchase of tickets. It is possible to buy them directly at the station ticket offices, but to avoid long queues it is advisable to use the automatic cash machines in the stations or buy tickets online.
Cinque Terre how to get there by boat?
A spectacular option: arrive by sea! 🛥️ From late March to early November, ferry services connect: Monterosso – Vernazza – Manarola – Riomaggiore
🎟️ Tickets available at offices near boarding points
👉 Check schedules and pricing here.
🌟 In Summary: What’s the Best Way to Get There?
It depends on what you’re looking for:
✔ Comfort and flexibility? → Car (but prepare for parking challenges)
✔ Speed and convenience? → Train (ideal for hopping between villages)
✔ Romance and views? → Ferry (a panoramic, memorable trip)
📍 Book one of our Cinque Terre apartments here and start planning your perfect arrival!