The 10 things to do in Manarola

Visit Manarola: what are the best things to do and see in this jewel of Liguria?

Manarola is a hamlet of the commune of Riomaggiore in the Italian region of Liguria. The town is about 100 kilometres south-east of Genoa and is part of the five villages that make up the Cinque Terre National Park .

Built on the cliff side, it is renowned for its panorama, picturesque streets, summer festivities and so many others. Today we offer you to learn about the best activities to do to visit Manarola. This small fishing village, treasure of the Italian heritage, has decidedly not finished to marvel at you!

1. Discover the Cinque Terre National Park

The Cinque Terre National Park is a must for tourists not to be missed when visiting Manarola. With less than 3,900 hectares, it is one of the smallest Italian national parks. This did not prevent him from being registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It includes a marine protected area and spread over five communes: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia , Vernazza and Monterosso . Space completely without a car, it prefers to visit between April and October . Its 120 kilometers of coastal paths will delight you. Some are paying in high season. The price to be paid to preserve this wonderful natural site...

2. Explore the heart of the village of Manarola

The village of Manarola was built in the heart of Volastra Creek. It seems to immerse in crystal clear waters licking its steep cliffs. With its pastel-coloured houses typical of Liguria, it is one of the most picturesque places in the country.

The town follows the route of the Groppo, a stream surrounded by narrow paved streets. The exploration of these, between fountains and colourful gardens, is one of the most important activities to visit Manarola. Don’t hesitate to go to the small fishing port, it’s a real wonder!

3. Getting to Belvedere

Via Belvedere is a panoramic site overlooking the village of Manarola. It offers a breathtaking view of a spectacular natural environment. If you are looking to enjoy this exceptional place to visit Manarola, go to the lower part of the village and head to Piazza Eugenio Montale.

You will follow a pretty colorful street punctuated with traditional boutiques and famous restaurants. Via Belvedere is an accessible route ending in apotheosis: you will overlook the entire Manarola creek and admire a blue horizon where the sky seems to be confused with the ocean.

4. Apenter the Way of Love

The Way of Love (La Via dell’Amore in the language of Dante) is a rocky path to visit Manarola. With a length of just one kilometer, it is very easy and runs in just 20 minutes. His particularity? It is stained in the rock just above the surface of the water. Its primary purpose was purely practical since it allowed to connect Manarola and Riomaggiore.

Today it is the visitors who enjoy it both day and night: this panoramic path is lit when the sun goes down. You will have the opportunity to admire surprising geological formations and a unique flora while humanizing the marine air. We will especially advise the lovers who have come to visit the region: a great opportunity to please your half!

5. Go to the crib of Manarola

Did you know? The largest nursery in the world is carried out every year in the village of Manarola. Since 1961, it has been inaugurated on December 8 and has been on Tre Croci Hill until the end of January. We come from all of Italy to admire its sumptuous characters and decors!

It is to an old road named Maria Andreoli that we owe this spectacular initiative, so colossal that it is reflected in the water once the night falls. A real enchanted parenthesis to share with family for example.

6. Visit the church of San Lorenzo

The church of San Lorenzo was built in the 14th century. Today it is the most famous monument of Manarola. This Gothic church originally had a double function, religious and defensive. Its bell tower was used as an observation post to parry to the landings of possible invaders...

If you want to admire it, take the direction of Discovolo Street, the main artery of the village. You will be subjugated by its windows in Carrare pink marble and its magnificent baroque-style interior. Visiting this cultural place of national importance is one of the must-see activities to visit Manarola. This is all the more pleasant in the summer when the outside temperatures exceed 30 °C!

7. Hiking around the vineyards of Manarola

Yes! The surrounding cliffs are a high quality terroir for viticulture. The local peasants have not deceived and cultivated the vineyard in terraces for centuries. They produce the famous sciacchetrà , a liquorous wine typical of the region.

Made from a clever blend of bosco, albarola and vermentino, it can be enjoyed in the summer. The vineyards are covered by numerous rocky trails perfect for a walk in the open air. If you come to visit Manarola in autumn, don’t miss a tour, it’s really worth it (to drink)!

8. Enjoy a swim

Manarola has a beautiful dyke of rocks that is just below the city. Two adjoining ports including Palaedo are easily accessible after a few minutes' walk on the cliffside. Here, crystalline water is guaranteed in all seasons! The area also includes numerous coves and beaches, very clean, free of access and free of charge. Abritated, they do not pose any particular danger but can quickly be assaulted during the summer season.

Our team therefore advises you to go there in the morning or late afternoon. It is also recommended that you take advantage of the limpidity of the water to filter mask and tuba. An exceptional underwater fauna and flora are unveiled for your greatest happiness: so we sting a head?

9. Enjoy a meal with a view to Nessun Dorma

Nessun Dorma is located along the road leading to the cemetery (especially aesthetic, by the way). This legendary establishment is the perfect place to admire the sunset on the village. A true gourmet stop to be done in Manarola, there is a typical cuisine composed of charcuterie, cheese, salads and bruschettas.

No pasta or pizza here, only local dishes, we are in Liguria! You are advised to taste everything while enjoying various boards. These fresh and delicious snacks will best match with local white wine... good appetite!

10. Visit the Shrine of Nostra Signora della Salute

The sanctuary of Notre-Dame de la Santé is located in the hamlet of Volastra, which is joined along a peaceful stream. This church built almost a thousand years ago between vineyards and olive fields is an example of the purest Roman architectural style. We note the gothic stylistic additions that made it easier over the centuries.

The building is surrounded by a mysterious aura and lends itself to many legends. To discover them, opt for a guided tour organized by the local tourist office located at Manarola Station. We will probably tell you the episode of the disappearance of the church bells which, it seems, still ring the nights of storm...

How to get to Manarola?

By plane

If you opt for the air route, you should know that Genoa International Airport or Pisa Airport are the closest. Florence and Milan flights are also served by flights from all over Europe. Moreover, we advise you to use Skyscanner , a flight comparison that will allow you to come visit Manarola by finding a flight at the best price.

By train

The train is the easiest way to reach the Cinque Terre. From Genoa, go up the train towards La Spezia then into the train « Cinque Terre Express » . The five communes in the Cinque Terre National Park have a train station.

The train is also the ideal means of transport to travel in the latter since departures are organized every twenty minutes between March 15 and November 1 . The map « Cinque Terre Train » will allow you to travel unlimitedly on the line, take the green buses and enjoy free access to all walking trails. A real good plan!

By car

Let’s be clear: to visit Manarola, it is not recommended to use the car. It will be just possible for you to approach the villages of Cinque Terre by car but their center is forbidden to motor traffic. However, minibuses will allow you to connect the cities of the national park without difficulty.

If you come by car from La Spezia, Route 370 will take you to your destination. From Genoa, take advantage of the A12 motorway to the exit of Carrodano – Levanto and continue to Monterosso. The directions are very well indicated!

By boat

1 April to 1 November , tour boats from La Spezia and Levanto can help you to visit Manarola. This is an original way to admire the region and get out of the beaten paths!

Where to stay in Manarola?

If you are looking to stay easily, good news: many hotels in Manarola. Most of the hotels in the Cinque Terre are small settlements classified between 3 and 4 stars. Depending on your needs, simply visit this hotel comparison to search for the most suitable for your stay.

You can also choose an apartment to be selected from the interpersonal linking platforms like Airbnb . B & Bs are not yet: economical and friendly, they promise an authentic experience. This solution, a guarantee of quality services, is also widespread in Italy.

Even more original, opt for agritourism, that is, a stay in farms. You can taste typical peasant productions: olive oil, red and white wines, honey, cheese...

Youth hostels are destined for rustic backpackers ready to share basic accommodation: in good mood, of course! Finally, know that there is no campsite in the Cinque Terre National Park. However, Levanto and Deiva Marina have some. Don’t hesitate to book them well in advance, they are very busy from June to September!