We are planning our first trip to CT in mid-May 2011. In deciding where to stay, we'd like to know from those of you who have been in Vernazza in May if it is crowded. A lot of the posts I read here talk about the packed crowds in the summer through September. If it's that crowded in May also, we will probably opt for one of the other quieter villages. Any input would be appreciated - grazie !
Posted by
Poulsbo, WA, US
223 posts
I have been there in May and didn't feel it was overwhelmingly crowded... Busy maybe but not like it is in the summer. (It seemed to be a regular vacation spot for Germans as I seemed to hear as much German as Italian or English.)
Posted by
Northern California
118 posts
Hi Susan,
We stayed in Vernazza in late May 2008 and had trouble getting a room on a weekend, and when we stepped off the train, the sea of people walking down the main drag was a shock.
That said, the town calmed way, way down at night. After the school groups left and the hikers put away their walking sticks, it was very relaxed and peaceful. And in the mornings, before the day-trippers come, the only folks out are locals. If you really want a quiet Cinque Terre experience, Manarola might be better, but I think Vernazza is lovely even when sharing it with other tourists.
Enjoy Italy!
Posted by
Mansfield, GA
850 posts
We were in Vernazza the 2nd week in May, '07, and it was not too bad at all. Certainly busy but not like I have heard it to be in the summer months. We met one young couple without room reservations and they found one after arriving in the afternoon hours.
Posted by
Shoreview, MN, usa
187 posts
Everyone we talked to said that that is when Rick is in town. That it's a nice time of year.
We were there in March. Still funny to watch the trains belch out people that walk to the sea, take a picture and leave.
Have fun! I never wanted to leave Vernazza.
Posted by
Omaha, NE, USA
33 posts
My husband and I stayed three nights in Vernazza last May(14-16th,2009). Stepping off the train it seemed pretty busy and we overheard a couple of young women (Americans) having trouble finding a room after arriving. I would recommend booking ahead. The mornings and evenings are magical. I didn't want to leave and can't wait to return. The only time it felt a little too crowded was on the trails. Have a great trip. And you've got lots of time for planning!
Posted by
Palm Beach, Florida, United States
536 posts
Susan - Crowded - Yes - And worth every bit of it to see it. Extremely fabulous places are often busy and that's the way it should be. Enjoy Cinque Terre and don't worry about the number of tourists!!
Ciao, Greg
Walk the trail from Manarola to Riamaggiore called the Via dell'amore(lovers path) It's only about a mile long with a Cafe halfway for a cold drink - pic included!
http://photo.net/photodb/photo?photo_id=7210936
Posted by
WPB, FL & Firenze
3112 posts
I've stayed in Vernazza a couple of times in mid to late May, and would say it's been busy but not overly crowded. Weekends will be busier than weekdays. Mornings and evenings are very relaxing, as only the people living and staying in town are out and about. I would recommend reserving your room early to ensure getting one you want.