Corniglia is the only one of the five Cinque Terre towns that isn't a fishing town and you need to walk up around 365 steps to get there. That puts most people off and means that Corniglia is the Cinque Terre town with the fewest tourists.

In the context of the five famous Italian coastal villages, Corniglia is consistently ranked as the "least popular" or, more accurately, the least visited. This is primarily due to its unique geography: unlike the other four towns (Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore), Corniglia is perched high on a cliff and does not have direct sea access or a harbor. To reach the town center from the train station, visitors must either wait for a small shuttle bus or climb the Lardarina, a brick staircase of 382 steps. Because it is harder to reach and lacks a "beach" or "waterfront" vibe, many "day-trippers" skip it entirely. However, for the 2026 traveler looking for a more authentic, quiet experience, Corniglia is often the favorite. It feels the most "Italian," with narrow alleys and a tranquil atmosphere that isn't overwhelmed by the same "Instagram crowds" found in Vernazza. It is the best place in Cinque Terre to enjoy a peaceful gelato and panoramic views of the entire coastline without feeling like you are in a human traffic jam.