We are getting to Monterosso mid afternoon and then spending 3 before going to Siena. Is 3 nights too much for the towns? What are somethings we could do besides hike? Thanks!
What's the rest of the timeline? If you have lots of time, the CT is a nice break in the middle of a long trip. If time is tight, 2 days is plenty. We go for the hiking so we don't spend time in the villages other than eating & sleeping.
Just Siena for 3 days as a home base for Tuscany.
sumayya, I don't think 3 nights is too much at all. I spent four nights in Monterosso last fall and will be back for five nights this fall. I find there's lots to do there besides hiking. For example: > It's a great place to relax and just enjoy the ambience and great food. > Especially in Monterosso, having some "beach time" is a great way to spend some time. > It's a great "home base" for exploring other parts of the region, such as Levanto, Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino, Portovenere and of course the other four C.T. towns. It took the better part of one LONG day to tour Santa Margherita and Portofino. > In addition to the Sentiero Azzuro trails, there's also a trail from Monterosso to Levanto, and an extensive network going up to various locations in the hills. When I arrived in Monterosso last year and had a look from the balcony of my Hotel room towards the ocean, I was wishing I had booked more time! Happy travels!
When are you going to be there?
May 1st
sumayya, If you're planning to visit the Cinque Terre on May 1st, it would be a REALLY good idea to get some accommodations booked NOW! I'm trying to book a room for late September and it's proving to be a bit of a challenge.
Not too long. I wish I could have stayed a week! Take the ferry to visit the other towns, be sure to walk the Via del Amore between Riomaggiore and Manarola. Each town has its own personality and historic sights. Love the list above. Jan
I don't think 4 nights is too many. In July 2009 we spent 4 nights in Vernazza and loved every minute of it. Had been to the C.T. 2x before, in 2002 and 2006. First time we just did a daytrip which was not long enough and 2nd time we spent 3 nights in Vernazza. In 2009 we took the boat to Portovenere which we really enjoyed. The weather was stunning the entire time. Was particularly memorable as we were there when Vernazza was celebrating its patron saint day. Games for the kids on the harbor, stage set up in square with evening entertainment one night and fireworks another night. Our room had a view of the square which we loved! Buon Viaggio!