Choosing where to stay in Cinque Terre isn’t easy!
Each village is as beautiful as the next. And with five villages full of accommodation options, it’s hard to know where’s best.
Using the time I spent exploring this beautiful part of Italy as a reference point, the aim of this post is to help you find what’s right for you.
Read on for an overview of Cinque Terre’s villages and a list of accommodation options to suit different budgets in each one. I hope it helps!
Where to Stay in Monterosso al Mare
Monterosso is Cinque Terre’s gorgeous westernmost town. It’s accessible by road and rail, but train is probably the more straightforward (and safer) option.
They run from Levanto to the west and La Spezia to the east – the former being the quicker route.
While Monterosso lacks some of the charm you find in other parts of Cinque Terre, it makes up for it in amenities. It’s the largest of the five towns, so expect shops, bars, restaurants galore, plus a vast sandy beach with sun loungers and water sports.
Summary of Reasons to Stay in Monterosso
- Largest town in Cinque Terre with lots to do
- Easiest town to get to by car, with affordable parking
- Plenty of accommodation options, many near the beach
- More amenities here than in other towns
- Big, beautiful sandy beach
- Flatter landscape and easier to move around
Luxury Accommodation in Monterosso
If you’re looking for unparalleled luxury in Monterosso, consider La Casa del Gigante, with its unusual yet breathtaking architecture.
Sitting alongside Fegina Beach, this air-conditioned apartment offers scenic sea views, oodles of comfort, and all the amenities you could want.
Accessed via a private entrance, the apartment comes with one spacious living room, two large bedrooms, a fitted kitchen, two separate bathrooms, and a walk-in shower.
Facilities at the property include free WiFi, an ATM, and concierge service.
- Situated on Fegina Beach
- Only 1 km from Monterosso Old Town Beach
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Private entrance
- Concierge service is available at the property
- Unique architecture
- Scenic sea views
- Spacious living facilities
Mid-Range Accommodation in Monterosso
Appartamento Principe is a charming one-bedroom apartment found approximately 20 yards away from Monterosso Old Town Beach.
This deluxe apartment boasts a spacious terrace and patio with lush garden views and plenty of space to relax.
Inside, you’ll find one bedroom with an extra large double bed, a bathroom with a walk-in shower, a kitchen and dining area, and a decent-sized living area.
Other amenities in this beautifully decorated apartment include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, free WiFi, and a coffee machine.
- Close proximity to Monterosso Old Town Beach
- Access to terrace and patio area
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Close to major Monterosso attractions
- Beautifully decorated
Budget-Friendly Accommodation in Monterosso
As far as budget-friendly accommodation in Monterosso al Mare goes, it doesn’t get much better than La Rosa Dei Venti. This traditional hotel offers stylish and spacious bedrooms at an affordable price and a fantastic location to explore the town.
This hotel is a five-minute walk from Monterosso Old Town Beach and just a 10-minute walk from the train station. Each bedroom has a large double bed, air conditioning, a private bathroom, a TV, and coffee facilities. What’s not to like?
- Affordable rooms
- A short walk from the train station
- Great location to explore the town
- Private bathrooms
- Walking distance to Monterosso’s best bars and restaurants
Where to Stay in Vernazza
Vernazza is quintessential Cinque Terre – colourful, quaint, and full of old-world charm.
With its hillside location, mini port, and medieval castle, this little fishing village oozes natural beauty and historical appeal. There’s even a tiny sandy beach tucked away in the harbour.
Vernazza’s only downside is how busy it gets. Crowds flock here for understandable reasons, so expect to rub shoulders with countless other tourists. But don’t let that put you off.
Vernazza was probably my favourite Cinque Terre town. Its views, history (it dates back around 1000 years), local hikes, and vibrant atmosphere are incredible.
Summary of Reasons to Stay in Vernazza
- Quintessential Cinque Terre beauty and charm
- Full of history – a striking castle overlooks the town
- Great hike to and from neighbouring towns
- Stunning – sandy beach, turquoise waters, olive groves line the hills, viewpoints in the surrounding area let you take everything in
Luxury Accommodation in Vernazza
1. Muin a Ventu Historical Tower
This luxury accommodation option allows you to stay in a historic tower. Perched on a hill, the old stone tower offers impressive sea views and offers guests a truly one-of-a-kind stay.
The tower has been converted into a stunning three-bed apartment with two large double rooms and a single room.
The fixtures and fittings inside the property are spectacular, but you’ll likely spend most of your time enjoying the garden and terrace.
Other amenities at the property include a living room, kitchen, free WiFi, and concierge service.
- Terrace with sea views
- Unique-style
- 400 m from Vernazza Beach
- Just 2.4 km from Guvano Beach
- 200 yards from Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre
Mid-Range Accommodation in Vernazza
2. 3 Terrazzi Apartment on Sea
Surrounded by views of the vibrant Vernazza streets, 3 Terrazzi Apartment on Sea is a sustainable accommodation option just 100 yards away from Vernazza Beach.
This beachfront property has a terrace with sea views, a living area, two double bedrooms, two bathrooms with walk-in showers, and a fully equipped kitchen.
If you decide to stay in the apartment, you’ll also be close to Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre, Guvano Beach, and a wide selection of bars and restaurants.
- Town, sea, and mountain views from the terrace
- Sofa bed included
- Free WiFi
- Close proximity to main attractions
- Spacious living area
Budget-Friendly Accommodation in Vernazza
Located in the heart of the town, this budget-friendly property features two terraces that offer breathtaking views across the town and the Ligurian Sea.
Every room also features a sea-view balcony, so you’ll never be too far away from epic views.
A double room in Affittacamere Elisabetta also has a comfy double bed, private bathroom, free WiFi, and air conditioning.
When it comes to local attractions, this option is 150 yards away from Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre and Vernazza Beach. Vernazza train station is also only 100 yards away.
- Balcony and terrace included
- Budget-friendly prices
- Central location
- All essential amenities included
Where to Stay in Corniglia
Perched on top of a green, leafy cape roughly 100m above sea level, Corniglia boasts a unique location and atmosphere – plus views to die for.
In the past, its hilltop location would have thwarted attacks from marauding pirates. Nowadays, it helps keep tourist numbers in check.
With 382 steps leading up to it from the station, Corniglia is the least accessible place to stay in Cinque Terre. A shuttle bus offers an alternative route, but you’ll still enjoy much smaller crowds.
The result is a more authentic look at life on this famous stretch of coast. Expect charming streets leading to rustic piazzas, shops selling local produce, and bars and trattorias filled with tourists and locals alike.
With stunning views around every corner, Corniglia’s hard to beat.
Summary of Reasons to Stay in Corniglia
- Unique location with unbeatable hilltop views
- Fewer tourists/smaller crowds
- More authentic look at local Cinque Terre life
- Great place to watch the sunset
- Lots of great walks in the area – including to nearby beaches
Luxury Accommodation in Corniglia
If you want to rent an entire villa in Corniglia, look no further than Villa Lardarina.
This luxury villa offers all the rustic Italian charm and fantastic sea views you need for an unforgettable stay in Cinque Terre.
800m away from Corniglia Beach, the highlight of the property has to be the large terrace, patio, and garden area, which comes with a large dining table and lounging area.
Inside, you’ll be spoiled with a comfy living room, a huge kitchen, a large double bed, and a big bathroom.
- Large terrace, patio, and garden area
- Close proximity to bars and restaurants
- Huge kitchen
- Sleeps four
Mid-Range Accommodation in Corniglia
Affittacamere II Timone is a sustainable guest house surrounded by views of Corniglia, the sea, and the nearby mountains.
It’s a great place to stay if you want comfort and luxury that doesn’t break the bank.
Inside a traditional stone house, you can expect a terrace with sea views, a large double bedroom, a private bathroom, and amenities like air conditioning and free WiFi.
Regarding attractions, the guest house is 250 yards from Corniglia Beach, 50 yards from Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre, and 30 yards from the nearest seafood restaurant.
- Spacious double bedroom
- Ensuite bathroom
- Rooftop terrace
- Sea, town, and mountain views
- Traditional-style house
Budget-Friendly Accommodation in Corniglia
Cecio 5 Terre Rooms offers arguably the best views in Corniglia, despite being one of the most affordable properties in the town. From the outdoor seating area, guests can enjoy undisturbed views of the town.
To top things off, the rooms in Cecio 5 are excellent value for money.
The deluxe double bedroom features a large double bed, a desk, an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, free WiFi, and a balcony with sea and landmark views.
Thanks to this hotel’s location, you won’t be too far away from the beach, bars, restaurants, and local attractions either.
- One of the best views in Corniglia
- Rooftop terrace with sea views
- Budget rooms with balconies
- Close to restaurants and attractions
- Ensuite bathroom
Where to Stay in Manarola
Manarola feels like a cross between Vernazza and Corniglia. It’s the best of both worlds – amazing history, colourful buildings, clifftop views, and a cute little harbour great for swimming.
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, then Manarola’s arguably the best place to stay in Cinque Terre.
Narrow streets alive with character and history weave up, down, and around town. A hot sun coats cliffs, vineyards, and multi-coloured buildings in a warm golden glow. Tiny squares with traditional trattorias overlook the ocean. It’s dreamy.
Summary of Reasons to Stay in Manarola
- Historic, charming, and beautiful
- You can cliff-jump, swim, and sunbathe
- Lots of great bars, gelaterias, and restaurants
- Easily accessible location, including by boat
Luxury Accommodation in Manarola
It could be argued that La Torretta Lodge is the most luxurious place to stay in Cinque Terre.
The lodge takes luxury seriously, from complimentary aperitifs every evening to outdoor hot tubs with sea views.
Once a medieval tower, this beautiful lodge provides rooms that feature contemporary artwork, fancy coffee machines, gorgeous bathrooms, and incredibly comfy beds.
La Torretta Lodge offers guests free baggage services, air conditioning, and a delicious breakfast.
- Outdoor hot tubs
- Luxury duplex suites
- Free baggage services
- Terrace with sea views
- Free-standing baths
Mid-Range Accommodation in Manarola
2. Arpaiu
Arpaiu offers rooms overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Every double room has a sea view, double bed, ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, and free WiFi.
Guests also have access to a sun terrace with a quiet lounging area and incredible views. Breakfast is also included for those who want it.
Another great thing about Arpaiu is its proximity to various attractions. There are several popular restaurants nearby, Riomaggiore Beach is less than a mile away, and Saint George’s Castle is only 4.7 miles away.
- The rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea
- Ensuite bathrooms provided
- Breakfast can be included
- Close to Saint George’s Castle
- Hotspot for bars and restaurants
Budget-Friendly Accommodation in Manarola
3. Posidonia Cinque Terre Guesthouse
Posidonia Cinque Terre Guesthouse might not offer the epic sea views other accommodation options in Manarola do, but it more than makes up for it by providing beautiful rooms at an excellent price.
Besides, Posidonia does offer a gorgeous garden and sun terrace with mountain and river views instead.
Inside Posidonia, you can expect to find large king-size rooms with ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning, free WiFi, and flat-screen TVs.
In terms of attractions, Riomaggiore Beach is 0.8 miles away, and Amedeo Lia Museum is 4.4 miles away.
- King-sized rooms available
- The garden and sun terrace offer mountain views
- Lots of restaurants and bars nearby
- Walking distance to the beach
Where to Stay in Riomaggiore
A two-minute train ride from Manarola is Cinque Terre’s southernmost village, Riomaggiore.
People flock here to see the patchwork of pastel-coloured buildings that seem to rise one on top of the next up steep meandering streets.
Heading steadily down through them leads to Riomaggiore’s prominent harbour, which slopes gently to clear waters below.
While you’re not allowed to swim here, the rocky harbour is a popular place to sunbathe and watch the sunset.
Higher up the village, the 13th Century Castello di Riomaggiore has a terrace with equally impressive views.
Cafes, restaurants, and bars are open to the early hours, meaning there’s also plenty of opportunity here to let your hair down.
Summary of Reasons to Stay in Riomaggiore
- Classic Cinque Terre aesthetic
- Easily accessible
- The harbour, complete with colourful fishing boats, is full of life
- Centuries-old churches to explore
- Beautiful hikes lead to neighbouring villages
Luxury Accommodation in Riomaggiore
1. La Vista di Marina by The First
La Vista di Marina is the place to stay if you seek dreamy Cinque Terre views, unparalleled comfort, and easy access to Riomaggiore’s main attractions, with the main beach being just 100 m away.
The main highlight of La Vista di Marina is the luxury honeymoon suite, which features a mind-blowing sea-view terrace complete with exceptional views of the town’s vibrant streets.
The honeymoon suite also consists of a large bedroom, a private kitchen, a beautiful bathroom, and all the basic amenities you need to enjoy your stay (i.e. air conditioning).
- Continental breakfast available
- The terrace offers one-of-a-kind views of Riomaggiore.
- Spa bath available in some rooms
- Perfect for a honeymoon
- Close to several bars and restaurants
Mid-Range Accommodation in Riomaggiore
Alla Marina Affittacamere is a charming hotel in a recently renovated mid-13th-century building next to Riomaggiore harbour. It offers terrific views of the town and the Ligurian Sea, and guests can expect a great deal in terms of price.
The double rooms are decorated with white contemporary furniture and parquet floors, and every room comes with air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom, an LCD TV, free WiFi, and a large bed.
Alla Marina is a convenient place to stay, too, as it is only a four-minute walk from Riomaggiore Train Station.
- Excellent location for exploring Riomaggiore
- Mid-13th-century architecture
- Onsite bar/shop
- Sea views from the terrace and balcony
- Close to Riomaggiore Train Station
Budget-Friendly Accommodation in Riomaggiore
3. Ca’ di Sotto
With luxury-esque bedrooms, large bathrooms, beautiful stone architecture, and a central location, it’s hard to believe Ca’ di Sotto is a budget-friendly accommodation option in Riomaggiore, but that’s precisely what it is.
12 km from the Technical Naval Museum, 14 km from Saint George’s Castle, and a short 500 m walk from Riommagiore Beach, Ca’ di Sotto offers everything you need.
Bedrooms have storage space for luggage and clothes, large double beds, and air conditioning, while the outdoor courtyard offers a relaxing place to unwind and eat.
You’ll also be close to various bars and restaurants.
- Excellent value for money
- Luxury bedrooms
- Central location
- Stunning stone architecture
- Private inner courtyard
Choose Where to Stay in Cinque Terre, Italy
The five historic fishing villages comprising Cinque Terre share many similarities but also possess their own unique appeal.
The good news is you’re guaranteed beautiful sea views and rustic Italian charm wherever you go! But, with any luck, the details above will help you choose exactly where to stay in Cinque Terre to get the experience you’re looking for.
