Cinque Terre from Florence with Guided Hike, Train Tickets, and Boat Ride
Follow cliffside trails with a local guide, experience scenic drives, plus enjoy free time to swim
Cinque Terre is a strip of Ligurian coastline where villages cling to rock and the sea crashes to the shore. This guided day trip from Florence seamlessly includes coach travel, train rides, and National Park access. Begin in Manarola, ride up to Corniglia, and follow a roughly 2-mile (3.2 km) trail into Vernazza. From there, Monterosso and Riomaggiore complete the tour, with a boat ride along the cliffs, weather permitting. Leave Florence for the day and return refreshed from salty air and fun.
What You Get With This Tour
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Get up close and personal with Cinque Terre
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Expert English-speaking guide
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Round-trip transport between Florence and Cinque Terre by coach
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Cinque Terre National Park entry tickets
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Train tickets for the day (Cinque Terre segments)
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Scenic boat ride along the coast (weather permitting)
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Time to explore Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, Monterosso, and Riomaggiore
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Guide tips
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Food and drink
Tour Itinerary
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1
Your tour begins at Santa Maria Novella station
Gather in Piazza Stazione outside Santa Maria Novella and spot your guide by the meeting point. Step onto the coach and let the city fade behind you as you head toward the cliffs and sea air of Cinque Terre. -
2
Slip out of Florence and settle into the coast bound drive
Stretch out on the coach ride while your guide paints a vivid picture of Liguria’s rugged shoreline and terrace-cut hillsides. As the landscape shifts, trade cypress-dotted countryside for salt spray and seaside villages. -
3
Soak in Manarola’s first, cinematic coastal views
Arrive in Manarola and wander into postcard scenery where candy-colored homes cling to dark rock. Follow a panoramic walk above the water and feel the coast open up beneath you in a sweep of vineyards, waves, and bright harbor boats. -
4
Climb into Corniglia by train
Hop on the train and ride toward Corniglia, the only Cinque Terre village set high above the sea. Tackle roughly 380 steps to the clifftop, then slow down in the narrow lanes and viewpoints that make this village feel like a hidden ledge above the Ligurian blue. -
5
See Vernazza by foot
After lunch, lace up and follow your guide along medieval mule trails on a roughly 2-mile (3.2 km) hike through olive groves and vineyard walls. When Vernazza finally comes into view, drop into the harbor scene for time to swim, sip wine, or simply watch the boats glide in. -
6
Unwind in Monterosso with beach time
Then board the train for Monterosso. Once you arrive, stretch out on the sand, browse artisan shops, or linger over a glass of crisp Ligurian white before the day continues. -
7
Glide to Riomaggiore, then drift back to Florence
Lastly, If weather allows, cruise by boat to Riomaggiore and watch the coastline unfold from the water in sweeping cliffs and coves. Explore its steep lanes and tiny marina, then regroup for the return journey. -
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Your tour ends at Santa Maria Novella station
Arrive back at Santa Maria Novella station in the evening with sun-warmed memories and a camera roll full of color. Stay nearby for dinner or step straight onto your next train, with thoughts of the coast already replaying in your head.
Additional Information
Discover what to expect, what's included, and everything you need to know before booking.
Good to know:
Boat ride: The coastal boat ride is included when conditions allow. On rare days with rough seas or strong winds, you’ll switch to the train instead.
Accessibility: Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. It includes uneven paths, steep steps in the villages, and a guided hike on coastal trails.
Fitness level: You should have moderate physical fitness and be able to keep pace with the group during the hike.
Age and mobility limits: This tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties, below-average fitness, or young children. Minimum age is eight.
Trail changes: If hiking paths close unexpectedly (weather, safety, maintenance), your guide will use alternative routes.
Weather advisory: This experience runs in a coastal region and operates in all weather conditions, so dress for wind, sun, and sudden changes.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can depart on time.
Your tour includes:
Expert English-speaking guide
Round-trip transport between Florence and Cinque Terre by coach
Cinque Terre National Park entry tickets
Train tickets for the day (Cinque Terre segments)
Scenic boat ride along the coast (weather permitting)
Time to explore Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, Monterosso, and Riomaggiore
What to bring:
Comfortable walking shoes (closed-toe with good grip)
Water bottle
Sunscreen (in warmer months)
Light jacket or wind layer
Swimwear and towel (if you plan to swim)
Hat and sunglasses
Small day bag
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour family friendly?
This tour is best for active travelers, and the minimum age is eight. The day includes steep steps, uneven paths, and a guided hike, so it’s not a great fit for very young kids.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible and isn’t suitable for guests with walking difficulties. It includes steep stair climbs in the villages and a hike on coastal trails.
How much walking is involved?
Expect a full day on your feet, including a guided hike of about 2 miles (3.2 km) plus village exploration on uneven streets and stairways. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip are essential.
Does the boat ride always run?
The coastal boat ride is included when conditions allow. If seas are rough or winds are strong, you’ll switch to the train instead.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included. You’ll have free time in the villages to choose what and where you eat.





