Best Things to Do in Vernazza: Uncover the Best

Dreaming of pastel houses stacked on cliffs, salty sea air, fresh focaccia, and a chilled glass of Cinque Terre DOC? That’s Vernazza, the postcard-perfect gem of Cinque Terre. For wine lovers, foodies, and laid-back travelers, this village checks every box. It’s one of the top spots to explore Liguria wine tours, sip local white wines by the sea, and dive into authentic Italian Riviera life.Tucked between Monterosso and Corniglia, Vernazza delivers big on coastal charm, scenic views, and food you’ll think about long after your trip ends.

What are the best things to do in Vernazza?

Wander through the heart of Vernazza

Kick off your time in Vernazza on Via Roma, the village’s main street and heartbeat. This lively stretch links the train station to the harbor and is lined with colorful buildings, gelaterias, tiny cafés, and local artisan shops. You’ll pass everything from hand-painted ceramics to freshly baked focaccia as you make your way toward the sea. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to stop often, for a photo, a snack, or just to soak up the rhythm of village life. And when the harbor finally opens up in front of you, you’ll know exactly why you came.

Climb to Doria Castle for a stunning view

You can’t visit Vernazza without noticing Doria Castle, the medieval fortress keeping watch from the cliffs above the village. Built in the 15th century to defend against pirate attacks, it now offers one of the most epic viewpoints in all of Cinque Terre. Climb the narrow steps to the tower and you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic sweep of the harbor, colorful rooftops, and the endless Ligurian Sea. Head up around golden hour, the light hits just right, and trust us, your camera roll will thank you.

Visit the Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia

Set right along the waterfront, the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia is one of Vernazza’s most iconic sights. Built in the 13th century in a Romanesque-Gothic style, it’s dedicated to the village’s patron saint and adds a striking silhouette to the harbor with its elegant bell tower. Step inside for a moment of quiet, the cool, simple interior offers a peaceful break from the sun and the crowds.

Relax at Vernazza’s sandy beach

Unlike most Cinque Terre villages, Vernazza actually has a small sandy beach, and it’s right by the harbor. Tucked between historic sea walls and backed by pastel buildings, it’s a favorite spot to stretch out in the sun or take a swim in the clear, calm water. Just a few steps away, you’ll find a hidden second beach, accessible through a narrow cave near the marina. It’s smaller and quieter, ideal if you’re looking to escape the crowds for a bit and enjoy the sound of the sea in peace.

Wine, sunsets and traditions above Cinque Terre

Nestled high above Manarola in Volastra, Cantina Capellini offers an unforgettable blend of wine, views, and local tradition. This experience invites you into their UNESCO‑protected vineyards, terraced over the cliffs, where you’ll sip Cinque Terre DOC and Sciacchetrà, learn family‑run winemaking methods, and watch the sun dip into the Mediterranean. With four guided tastings and wine paired with local bites, it’s a perfect way to connect with Liguria’s soul, no travel skills required.

Take a scenic hike on the Blue Trail

One of the most iconic things to do in Vernazza is hitting the Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro), and the section to Monterosso al Mare is a must. Expect steep climbs, epic coastal views, and plenty of photo stops along the way. Looking for a quieter route? The trail to Corniglia winds through vineyard-covered hillsides and feels a bit more off the radar. Both hikes give you a front-row seat to the dramatic beauty of the Cinque Terre landscape. Just make sure to carry your Cinque Terre Card, it’s required for access and helps support the maintenance of these legendary trails.

Explore the Marina

The Vernazza harbor is where the village truly comes to life, and somehow slows down at the same time. Kids splash in the shallow water, fishermen unload the day’s catch, and locals linger over espresso or prosecco at tiny waterfront bars. It’s not just a place to pass through; it’s one to stay awhile, take it all in, and feel the rhythm of daily life. This is Vernazza at its most authentic, simple, slow, and impossibly beautiful.

What are the best things to do around Vernazza?

Wander in Monterosso

Just a quick 10-minute train ride from Vernazza, Monterosso al Mare offers a totally different vibe. It’s the largest of the Cinque Terre villages and home to the region’s only true sandy beach, making it a top spot for swimming and sunbathing. Beyond the shoreline, you’ll find terraced hillsides dotted with micro-vineyards that produce Cinque Terre DOC white wines, perfect for those looking to explore the local wine scene. Grab a seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant, wander the seaside promenade, or take a peaceful walk through the Old Town.

Visit Corniglia

Perched high above the sea, Corniglia is the only Cinque Terre village not directly on the water, and that’s exactly what makes its views so special. Just 5 minutes by train from Vernazza, it’s followed by a climb up the scenic Lardarina staircase (377 steps) or a quick shuttle ride from the station. Once at the top, you’ll find peaceful lanes, fewer crowds, and sweeping views of vineyards rolling down toward the coast. Grab a gelato, stop at a local café, and soak up the calm. It’s also a great starting point for hiking the Blue Trail, especially the stretch toward Vernazza, one of the most scenic in the park.

Explore the colorful Marina of Manarola

Just 10 minutes from Vernazza by train, Manarola is often called the most romantic of the Cinque Terre villages, and once you see those cliffside houses glowing at golden hour, you’ll get why. It’s a favorite for photographers and anyone chasing dreamy views. Stroll down to the small harbor to hop on a boat tour or sunset cruise, or simply relax in a seaside piazza with a plate of fresh pesto pasta and a local apéritif.

Ready to see what makes Manarola so unforgettable? Dive into our guide to the best things to do in Manarola for food, views, and can’t-miss experiences just a short ride from Vernazza.

Head to Riomaggiore

15 minutes by train from Vernazza, Riomaggiore feels like a different world, quieter, steeper, and packed with personality. This cliffside village is all about color, from the stacked houses above the rocky inlet to the boats bobbing in the tiny harbor. Walk down Via Colombo, the lively main street lined with trattorias and cozy wine bars pouring crisp Ligurian whites. For a change of pace, hike up to the Church of San Giovanni Battista for sweeping views, or explore the quieter trails that branch out from the village.

Want to discover this laid-back gem? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Riomaggiore, perfect for planning an easy add-on to your Vernazza adventure.

Discover the historic city of La Spezia

If you’re looking to mix things up beyond Vernazza, head to La Spezia, just a 20-minute train ride away. This coastal city has a totally different feel, wide streets, grand architecture, and a more local, lived-in vibe. Walk the Passeggiata Morin along the sea, check out art and naval museums, or hop on a boat tour straight from the port. It’s also a great place to try Ligurian wines in a more relaxed setting before heading back to the villages.

Want to discover more of what La Spezia has to offer? Don’t miss our guide to the top things to do in La Spezia.

Good to know before visiting Vernazza