Reservations required?

At that time of year, I would not feel comfortable without reservations, especially since you are traveling by train.
Do you really want to wander around town (with luggage) looking for a place to stay?

You're going during high season. I wouldn't take the chance of waiting until you get there and winging it.

Donna

With a little sense of adventure and flexibility you will be OK. You don't have to wonder around carrying luggage looking for a place. The local TI will have room finder service that will find rooms for you. I think it is a good idea to id four or five places for each location that would be suitable and call ahead a day or two when you know your schedule. Also if the hotel is full ask for a reference. Often the hotel has an overflow hotel that they will recommend. You may not get the best room in the best location at the best price but it will be clean and dry.

Hi george!
My wife and I - we're pretty adventurous and will be backpacking - no suitcases...

David: My husband would LOVE to travel like that! He'll probably have to wait and do that with his next wife! Have fun!
Peg

What is wrong with current wife? Too high maintenance??

david,

Mid-June is going to be towards the end of the spring shoulder season and close to the peak travel times that start in July. At that time of year, I would absolutely want to have rooms pre-booked as there's no way I want to be wandering around an unfamiliar city hauling my Backpack and trying to find a place to sleep. That would be a waste of my valuable travel time, so I prefer to get to my hotel straight away, drop my gear and start touring ASAP.

I've found that not having reserved accommodations often means paying more than desired, having to accept dodgy rooms or having to accept rooms that are a long way from the central locations that I normally prefer to stay. In mid-June the lodging situations may be especially "limited" in the Cinque Terre. I've observed travellers arriving there with no reservations, and having to spend two or three hours searching all the towns to try and find somewhere to stay. That's not my idea of a "fun" holiday!

You may be able to find spots on the fly, but at that time of year it could be a problem. If you have a "generous" travel budget and can afford high-end places, it may be easier to find rooms on short notice.

Good luck!

Frank: you say that like its a BAD thing!!!!

I just like my daily shower, what can I say?!!

Peg