I don't know how accurate Wiki is, but I read that you only need to buy the pass if you are hiking the blue trail and since 4/5 of it is closed you should consider not buying it. Or only buying a one day pass for the day you'll be hiking the 1/5 of the trail that is open. It said the train tickets were very inexpensive and it would be more cost effective to buy as needed. Link. Thoughts?
Posted by
Minnesota 🎒
15807 posts
Yes, train tickets are very inexpensive so buying them individually is fine: the one-day or two-day park/trail combos are conveniences more than than anything. Still, the one-day, € 12.00 trail/train pass isn't such a bad deal if you intend to hike AND use the trains 3-4 times or so on the same day.
The park's website isn't clear on the need for the pass only for the Sentiero Azzurro but as a hiker myself, I'd purchase at least the park-only (no transport) pass if planning to hike anywhere at all in the park. I figure I'd be adding to the general wear-and-tear, plus some of the funds will contribute to getting the Blue open again.
http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/cosa-sono-le-cinque-terre-cards_2.asp?id_lingue=2
If you don't intend to hike any of the segments of that trail which may be open - and really don't want to buy a pass - then ask at the train station park offices or any of the recreation equipment shops what is required for the upper trails. Do note that the pass covers trips to-and-from Corniglia on the little green bus from that village's train station, which is at the bottom of a steep climb.