How to transport yourself to the beautiful world of Disney’s Luca-Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is one of the most picturesque places in the world! No wonder it’s been the inspiration for the Disney movie Luca! Located in northwest Italy, just off the coast, lies a series of colourful houses on hillsides making picturesque villages. It’s truly a postcard place. The stunning sights and breathtaking views which continue across the five “Terre”! It’s certainly an inspiration for many who visit the place and for those who live there too.

The Enchanting Villages of Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre’s UNESCO protected villages are: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, which all belong to Cinque Terre National Park and are sheltered by the Mediterranean Sea to the west. You have to see it to believe it. That’s how beautiful the towns of Cinque Terre are! And all those Instagram / Pinterest photos cannot do Cinque Terre any justice. It is a marvellous hidden gem!

If you are still asking yourself why you should visit Cinque Terre, then it’s the illustration of Bella Italia! Each of the towns is so special in a unique way and all together make for the picture-perfect destination!

Before You Go: Tips for Visiting Cinque Terre

Here are some useful tips to know before visiting the Cinque Terre. The closest airports: Pisa or Genoa. It’s advised to take a train instead of driving there. There is limited access if arriving by car and most of the parkings are overcrowded and, in fact, reserved for locals. Get the Cinque Terre train card, which is the best option for village hopping, and this allows access to the coastal hiking trail too. Remember to validate the card before entering a train.

A Village-by-Village Guide

Riomaggiore

My personal favourite. The town itself is one of the hilliest to walk. The little harbour is super charming. Take a stroll and admire coast views from the Castle. After taking hundreds of photos and a gelato break, make sure to grab a slice of pizza and a drink and enjoy watching the sunset sitting on the rock clusters at the harbour.

Vernazza

It’s one of the most famous Cinque Terre towns and undoubtedly one of the most photogenic. It is the place with the best view of the pastel-coloured harbour in the town. To admire the beauty, you have to take the steep and narrow stairs hidden behind the church, as if you were heading to Monterosso! The views get more and more rewarding as you climb! Make sure to try pesto pasta here (a local delicacy). It tastes like heaven!

Monterosso al Mare

It’s the biggest out of the 5 towns. With beach access and the long promenade, you can feel the atmosphere of an Italian Riviera here. In the centre of the town, you’ll find a small market run by locals, stores both touristy and more traditional, as well as a number of restaurants.

Manarola

It’s a real eye pleaser and a charming village. Softly coloured façades protected by the turquoise-coloured water from one side. If you follow a small footpath, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the village just perfect for all those perfect pictures!

Corniglia

The quietest out of all the towns, which is suspended 100 meters above the sea. To get there, you have two options: either climb about 400 steps or take a free minibus from the Railway Station, which takes you into the town centre. It’s the smallest out of all villages but very pleasant and relaxing.

Discovering the Cinque Terre is a magical experience under the sun, feeling La Dolce Vita and indulging in the exquisite Italian cuisine. One not to be missed!