How crowed is Vernazza these recent years in May??

Vernazza is not Venice like crowded and certainly not on weekdays in May. It is still worth a visit. I would go anytime.

It can vary greatly. We have not been in a number of years now, but even then it could get very bad. What I noticed were mainly tour groups, including school groups of Italian children. May have just hit a bad day, but the train platform was packed shoulder to shoulder.

That said, the other towns at the same time (except Monterosso) were only moderately busy, and by late afternoon, the crowds had left.

I guess I would not avoid the CT based on the potential for crowds, if you show up and it's hectic, head to a lesser town or hike until late afternoon and return.

Linda,

I don't know about May, but last time I was in Vernazza in September it was extremely crowded, mostly due to the cruise ship groups. I travelled down from Monterosso by train, which was truly "SRO". Upon arrival in Vernazza, I had to disembark in the tunnel and I'm not exaggerating in saying that it took me 10-15 minutes just to get off the railway platform and down the stairs to the main street.

I'm sure it will be "busy" in May, but whether it's "crowded" will depend on circumstances at the time. Of course, if you're there in the evenings it will be much more pleasant with no crowds.

Spending the night gives you a different view than making it a day trip. By late afternoon most of the crowds have cleared out for other locations and the towns have a completely different feel. We loved it. It does seem that May is " field trip month" in Europe - fun to see all the excited kids.

Thanks you guys! I really appreciate the feedback!!!

I just saw the latest RS show which included Cinque Terre. Even he said you should hike the trails early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.