My wife and I are doing the Village Italy tour in April. The tour itinerary has a free day in Cinque Terre. We’ve found a fabulous bike tour there that leaves from Levanto. My question is does the tour guide usually plan some sort of optional event in Cinque Terre for the free day, and if so, what does it usually involve? I’d hate to plan something on the side and find out that the group option was even more interesting.
Posted by
585 posts
When I did the tour some years ago we were left to our own devices. Rick does call this day a holiday from your holiday! Some of our group hiked from Levento to all the villages and back, some of us took the train to the furtherest village and walked back and some of us did part of the walk and returned to Levento..I enjoyed some time on the beach there. Probably a day for the Guide to be free from us too!
Posted by
Raleigh, NC
73 posts
I was on this tour in June and our (fabulous) guide had a few suggestions for us but no plans. A tour friend and I took an early train to Manarola and walked the terraced vineyard trail, which was lovely in the morning before the crowds descended. From there, we went by train to tiny Corniglia — take the shuttle up into the town and walk down the gazillion steps — and it was very very crowded. At that point, we surrendered and returned by train to the tour hotel. The bike tour sounds like fun, and I hope you’ll have a grand time.
Posted by
WA State
3961 posts
I can’t comment on the Village Italy tour but can give input on the town of Levanto. A number of years ago we were on a culinary tour. We spent a couple nights in CT. Our tour guides aunt lived in Levanto. She recommended a wonderful restaurant. It ended up being the best dinner and Tiramisu we had on our tour. The view was also beautiful. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwj73uCxqKT8AhXcAjQIHezTAeEQFnoECBEQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.zitalevanto.com%2Findex_eng.htm&usg=AOvVaw0Lwlgq1cOXEIQuo0XdtT5N
Posted by
Sapulpa, OK, USA
6528 posts
Same here; no activities were planned, but our guide made suggestions. A few of us walked to a village further north, i.e., away from the "Five Towns." The walkway follows the beach much of the way, and is scenic and relaxing.
Some folks hit the beach, others hiked or took the train to Cinque Terre proper. And everyone was glad of the down time, I suspect. This is a great tour, but very active.
Posted by
Seattle area
49 posts
My comments are similar to Jane's. Our guide in fall 2022 made suggestions, and everyone scattered or just took it easy in Levanto. The level walk to Bonassola along the sea, partially through abandoned railroad tunnels, was my choice - followed by more good food. Enjoy!
Posted by
10 posts
We are also taking the tour in April, I am interested in the bike tour. Where did you find the information on the bike tour? This is our 7th Rick Steves tour, free time/day is yours to plan. Guide offers suggestions.
Posted by
OP
16 posts
The Bike Tour is on Airbnb adventures. "The best of the Cinque Terre in Ebike, from Levanto to Vernazza"
Posted by
San Francisco area
1888 posts
Village Italy is a great tour. If you have the time it’s worth getting to Padua a day or two early to explore and get over jet lag. Have fun!
Posted by
Seattle area
49 posts
I definitely agree with Rocket's advice about this tour. Arrive early in Padua if you have the time. In addition to the benefits of getting over jet lag, it's a lovely city for walking, eating, and some spectacular architecture and art.
Posted by
Port Angeles
159 posts
I'm doing the the Village Italy tour in June and am also considering the Airbnb "The best of the Cinque Terre in Ebike, from Levanto to Vernazza." I would love to hear feedback if you and your wife decide to do it.