Where does the hiking trail start in Monterosso?

Hiking trail Levanto - Monterosso The trail starts on the east end of the beach promenade in Levanto by stairs up to the castle (castello). This path is an old donkey trail and goes through pine forests and Mediterranean vegetation. Nice views over Levanto as you climb the hill.



The famous Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro) hiking path in Monterosso al Mare starts at the eastern end of the town's "Old Town" section, specifically near the Porto di Monterosso. To find the trailhead, you must walk past the beach area of Fegina (the new town), head through the pedestrian tunnel near the Aurora Tower, and enter the historic village. Look for the green and white signs marked "S.N. 2 - Vernazza." The path begins with a steep ascent of several hundred stone steps that climb past lemon groves and vineyards. In 2026, it is vital to remember that you must have a Cinque Terre Card to access this section of the trail, which can be purchased at the small wooden booth located right at the start of the stairs. This trailhead is the gateway to the most rugged and scenic portion of the UNESCO World Heritage site, offering spectacular views back over the Monterosso bay as you climb toward the cliffs that lead to Vernazza.

People Also Ask

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!

MORE DETAILS

The most popular of these paths is the Sentiero Azzurro (blue trail) and it shows up as blue on most maps. Although it can be rigorous at times, it is the easiest, most direct route between Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso.

MORE DETAILS

Vernazza: Located to the north of the Cinque Terre, Vernazza is probably the most beautiful and picturesque fishing village of Cinque Terre, where its colourful houses hang above the sea level on rugged cliffs. It has a charming natural port and an old castle, built to protect the area from pirates.

MORE DETAILS

If you want a much easier hike, definitely hike from Vernazza to Monterosso (and not vice versa). The trail is much easier and Monterosso has the best beach of all five villages — so you can relax on the beach after your hike! Be sure to bring water and snacks on your hike!

MORE DETAILS

You have to skip Corniglia situated on top of a cliff 100 metres above sea level. If you are limited on time, take the train between the villages.

MORE DETAILS

The towns can be visited by bus, boat, train, or by hiking trail. We chose the hiking option. There is a 11 km trail (called the Blue Trail) connecting Riomaggiore to Monterosso al Mare.

MORE DETAILS

Monterosso Al Mare to Vernazza The trail portion between Monterroso Al Mare and Vernazza is the most difficult and challenging of all Cinque Terre trails. There are lots of narrow steps and stairs to hike up and down. You have to climb lots of hills up and down. Remember that you can hike in either direction.

MORE DETAILS

Experience this 5.0-mile point-to-point trail near Levanto, Liguria. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 44 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking, birding, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.

MORE DETAILS

Monterosso al Mare is the best place to stay in Cinque Terr for the first time. It is the largest of the villages in Cinque Terre. You'll find many hospitality venues, a medieval old town, and the sandy Monterosso al Mare Beach.

MORE DETAILS

The biggest part of the beach is private and of course you have to pay for the services, but there are some free public beaches as well: in front of the railway station, under the statue of the Giant and at the end of the beach towards Vernazza, near the historical center.

MORE DETAILS

Getting around: by foot, train or boat There are basically three ways to move from one village to another; you either walk, take the train or the boat. The walking trail is 12 kilometers and runs along the coast through all five villages from Riomaggiore in the south to Monterosso in the north.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

Corniglia is the smallest and quietest of the Cinque Terre villages. It is located 100 meters above sea level, on top of a small promontory. Houses are a bit different here, smaller and wider, similar to the houses of the villages inland.

MORE DETAILS