You can start from either direction (Monterosso, heading south, or Riomaggiore, heading north). But here's a tip: Start from Riomaggiore, where the paths are easier and paved, and work your way up to the more challenging trails. That way, you can stop at any time… and head to the nearest train station if you have to!

To start the famous "Blue Trail" (Sentiero Azzurro) heading south from Monterosso al Mare toward Vernazza, you need to head to the Old Town (Centro Storico). Walk along the waterfront until you reach the pedestrian tunnel that connects the "new" Fegina area to the "old" town. Once in the old town, look for the signs pointing toward "Vernazza" or "Sentiero N. 2." The trailhead begins near the Hotel Porto Roca, ascending a set of steep stone stairs that lead you into the vineyards. In 2026, you are still required to have a Cinque Terre Card to access this specific segment of the trail. The climb starts steeply, but the panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea and the colorful houses of Monterosso from above are absolutely breathtaking and well worth the initial effort of the trek.