My understanding is that Vernazza is the busiest. I think I prefer to be in a quieter town and walk to other towns to visit. Suggestions for places to stay? Vernazza accommodations are welcome too.
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
It really doesn't matter. The towns are so close together that you base yourself in one town and travel to the next town by train, foot or ferry (if they are running). The towns are minutes apart by train. I think that you will find Riomaggiore and Manarola more quiet than Vernazza and Monterosso. They're smaller also. Some travelers want small and quiet; others want the most popular no matter what. It's all about your preferences. Great stays in Riomaggiore or Manarola should you choose those towns.
Posted by
Anchorage, Alaska, USA
17 posts
My husband and I stayed in Vernazza and had a wonderful time. It all depends on when you go. We arrived on Easter Sunday and it was an absolute zoo, but the crowds thinned out that evening and the next day. We stayed in on of Egi's room in the heart of town (no view) and we couldn't hear any noise due to the location of our room. Don't let people scare you....unless you are going to visit on a holiday, it should be just fine.
My very best suggestion is to check out Il Pirate delle Cinque Terre in Vernazza at the top of town. They have fabulous food...and don't forget to try a cannoli- the BEST!!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32352 posts
Leslie,
Any of the towns will be good, although walking "to other towns to visit" will be a bit of an effort. One point to note is that you WILL require a Park Pass to hike the trails between the five villages. There will be people checking these! You can obtain the Pass at the train station when you arrive.
As far as Hotel choices, you might check the Italy 2009 Guidebook for listings, as there are lots of accommodations listed in various price ranges. Vernazza tends to be a bit "busier" than some of the other towns (including tour groups with a well known firm, but we won't mention any names), so perhaps not as quiet. Depending on your budget, you might want to have a look at www.torrettas.com or www.cadandrean.it/ for stays in Manarola or www.5terre-marmar.com/ for stays in Riomaggiore. Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the villages, and has the best selection of Hotels and Restaurants and of course the nicest beach of all.
I'd highly recommend packing along a copy of the Italy Guidebook, as it's a good source of reference when travelling.
Happy travels!