We are planning a 7 day trip starting in Rome, going to Florence, and then would like to spend a day in Cinque Terre. What is the best way to get from Florence to Cinque Terre?
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
By train. It's 2.5hrs to get there and the same coming back. Trains leave early and can return late. Expect to change trains at Pisa and La Spezia.
I've attached a SAMPLE SCHEDULE from Florence to Vernazza for your review.
Trains run more frequently to Riomaggiore and Monterosso. Less frequent to Vernazza, Corniglia and Manarola.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32350 posts
DeeDee, if you're planning to hike the trails, you might want to start in either Monterosso al Mare or Riomaggiore. Note that you need to buy a Permit for hiking, which can be obtained at the local train station. This must be "validated" similar to a rail ticket.
If you decide to start in Riomaggiore, it's only about an eight minute trip from La Spezia. Be ready to disembark quickly, as the train only stops for a minute. At Riomaggiore the train sometimes stops in a tunnel (depending on which car you're in). If eight minutes has elapsed, time to get off!
Good luck and happy travels!