Florence to Cinque Terre Itinerary: Discover Italy’s Coastal Gems

Planning the perfect Florence to Cinque Terre itinerary? You’re in for one of Italy’s most iconic travel experiences. In just two to three hours by train or car, you can swap the Renaissance grandeur of Florence for the pastel cliffside villages and salty sea breeze of the Ligurian coast. This journey takes you from Tuscany’s artistic heart to the sun-drenched trails and harbors of Cinque Terre, a string of five charming villages that feel like they were designed for long lunches, scenic hikes, and impromptu wine tastings. Along the way, you can also explore underrated gems like La Spezia or Portovenere, and for wine lovers, Liguria wine tours offer the chance to sip crisp whites right where the grapes grow, often with sea views.

Florence to Cinque Terre itinerary: things to do

1- Set off early from Florence

Your Cinque Terre day trip from Florence starts early, but it’s worth it. Catch a train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella around 6:00 AM to reach La Spezia by 8:30. Tickets cost between €15 and €25, and the journey takes about 2.5 hours. From there, it’s easy to explore all five Cinque Terre villages in one day using the Cinque Terre Express. Before or after your coastal escape, consider discovering Tuscany’s wine culture with one of the best Florence wine tours. At FirstGlass, you can taste a curated selection of regional wines, including Chianti and Brunello, while learning the essentials of wine tasting and food pairing from a certified expert. It’s a great way to balance seaside views with a deeper dive into local flavors.

2- Take the train to the 5 villages

Once you’ve arrived in Cinque Terre, the easiest way to get around is by train. The Cinque Terre Express connects all five villages between La Spezia and Levanto, with departures every 10 to 15 minutes throughout the day. To save time and money, grab a Cinque Terre Card, it gives you unlimited access to regional trains on this route, plus entry to the hiking trails. If you’re doing a day trip from Florence, this is the most efficient way to explore multiple villages without wasting time on logistics.

3- Catch a panoramic view from the trails

If you’re planning a Cinque Terre day trip from Florence, set aside time for a hike. Some of the most scenic trails run between Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Manarola, all part of the Cinque Terre National Park. These cliffside paths give you open views of the Ligurian Sea, terraced vineyards, and quiet stretches of forest. To access them, you’ll need the Cinque Terre Card, which also covers local train rides. The trails can be steep in places, so wear good shoes and check for any closures before you go.

4- Marvel at the coast in La Spezia

La Spezia is more than just a transfer point, it’s your key connection when traveling from Florence to Cinque Terre. Take a direct train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella (around 2–2.5 hours), then switch to the Cinque Terre Express toward Levanto. From there, it’s easy to reach all five villages in minutes. The La Spezia Centrale station is the main gateway to the coast and makes your itinerary run smoothly.

Got some time before your next train? Check out our guide to the best things to do in La Spezia, for local tips, food stops, and hidden spots worth seeing.

5- Take a quick detour and taste the region

If you’re looking to experience Cinque Terre’s wine culture beyond the views, plan a visit to Cantina Capellini in Volastra, just above Manarola. This family-run winery has been producing wine on these steep terraces for generations. Their signature white, made from the native Bosco, Albarola, and Vermentino grapes, reflects the region’s salty air and sun-soaked cliffs. You can join a guided tasting with a vineyard tour and learn how heroic viticulture shapes every bottle. It’s a perfect stop to add depth to your day trip from Florence, and sip something truly local.

6- Walk to Riomaggiore along the Via dell’Amore

Riomaggiore, the southernmost village in Cinque Terre, makes a perfect core moment during your itinerary from Florence. Its cliffs and pastel-colored houses create one of the region’s most striking views. If the Via dell’Amore trail is open, don’t miss it, it’s one of the most scenic coastal walks in Italy. Cap off your visit with a glass of Cinque Terre DOC wine by the harbor as fishing boats drift in and out.

Want to make the most of your stop here? Check out our full guide to the best things to do in Riomaggiore for local tips and hidden highlights.

7- Visit Manarola for iconic views

Manarola blends postcard views with deep wine tradition, a must for anyone visiting Cinque Terre from Florence. The village’s colorful buildings spill down the cliffs toward the sea, and its scenic viewpoint is one of the most photographed in the region. After walking the cliffside trail, reward yourself with a glass of Sciacchetrà, the local sweet wine made from sun-dried grapes. It’s one of the most unique tasting experiences in the area.

Looking for the best views, bites, and wine spots? Don’t miss our guide to the top things to do in Manarola.

8- Stroll the Marina in Vernazza

If you’re coming from Florence and exploring Cinque Terre by train, Vernazza should be high on your list. Just a short ride from La Spezia, this village is known for its small harbor, colorful facades, and the medieval Castello Doria watching over the coast. Climb up for sweeping views or grab a gelato by the marina before continuing your route. For hikers, the trail from Vernazza to Corniglia is one of the most scenic stretches in the park and easily doable in a day.

Want more ideas for your stop here? Dive into our guide to the best things to do in Vernazza for tips on where to eat, walk, and unwind.

9- Explore Monterosso al Mare’s Beaches and town

Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five villages, and the perfect way to end your Cinque Terre itinerary from Florence. After a full day of exploring, swimming, or hiking, this beachside village offers space to unwind. From La Spezia, it’s the easiest to reach by train, and once you arrive, the sandy beach lined with umbrellas is just a short walk away. Don’t miss the Old Town or the Church of San Giovanni Battista, with its striking striped facade. If you’re hungry, grab a table at one of the seaside restaurants and try the local anchovies, a regional specialty with PAT status.

10- Take a boat trip along the Ligurian Coast

Before heading back to Florence, take a step back, literally, and see Cinque Terre from the water. Hop on a ferry or book a private boat tour from Monterosso or La Spezia to admire the villages from a new perspective. Watching the pastel buildings cling to the cliffs as you glide along the coast is the kind of moment that stays with you. It’s especially stunning in the late afternoon light and makes a perfect final memory before the return trip. If you’re visiting in warmer months, it’s a peaceful and scenic alternative to the train or hiking paths.

Good to know before your Florence to Cinque Terre itinerary