Visit some of the villages Choose to visit two or three of the villages, for example Vernazza, Manarola and Riomaggiore. 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.

In 2026, travel experts and frequent visitors often suggest skipping Corniglia if you are on a tight schedule or have mobility issues. While beautiful, Corniglia is the only village not located directly on the water; it sits atop a high promontory, requiring guests to climb the Lardarina—a brick stairway with 382 steps—after exiting the train station. If you aren't interested in the strenuous hike or the shuttle bus, it offers the least "traditional" coastal experience. Alternatively, some suggest skipping Monterosso if you are looking for quaint charm, as it is the most "modernized" and resort-like of the five, featuring a large sandy beach and conventional hotels. However, in peak 2026 season, the best advice is often to "skip" whichever village is currently being flooded by cruise ship excursions; checking the La Spezia port schedule can help you avoid the mid-day "crush" in the smaller villages like Vernazza and Manarola.