Corniglia is the smallest of the towns, and will have more limited options for accommodations and restaurants. Vernazza is probably the most popular of the towns (I won't speculate on the reason for that), so it's often very crowded during the daytimes, and busy in the evenings.

Choosing between Corniglia and Vernazza in the Cinque Terre depends on your preference for atmosphere versus accessibility. Vernazza is often considered the "most beautiful" and is the most popular; it features a stunning natural harbor, a small beach, and a lively piazza filled with restaurants. However, it can be extremely crowded with day-trippers. Corniglia, on the other hand, is the only village not directly on the water; it sits high on a cliff and requires climbing 382 steps (the Lardarina) from the train station. Because of this "barrier," it is much quieter, feels more like a traditional hilltop village, and offers the best panoramic views of the entire coastline. If you want a romantic, bustling harbor vibe and don't mind crowds, choose Vernazza. If you prefer an "off-the-beaten-path" feel, value tranquility, and are physically fit enough for the stairs (or the shuttle bus), Corniglia is generally the better, more authentic choice.