【World Heritage Site】What are Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands?｜Like something out of a picture book

Along the Ligurian coast between Portovenere and Cinque Terre in northwestern Italy, towns with colorful houses dot the rugged landscape, creating a unique and beautiful scenery.

The view of towns clinging to steep seaside cliffs, lush green mountains, and the sparkling blue sea creates a landscape that feels like stepping into a painting. It is considered one of Italy's top tourist destinations. The area from Portovenere to Cinque Terre was recognized for its breathtaking views and cultural value and was designated a World Heritage Site in 1997.

What are Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands?

Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the islands in Italy are located in the Province of La Spezia, Liguria Region, at the base of the Italian peninsula in northwestern Italy. The entire coastal area stretching from Portovenere—known as the “Town of Spectacular Views”—to Cinque Terre—also called the “Pearl of the Riviera”—including the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, was designated a World Heritage Site in 1997.

Colorful houses are tightly packed in small coves and appear to cling to the cliffs. The contrast of the blue sea and green mountains creates a stunning landscape. These picturesque towns actually originated as fortress cities around the 11th century and were accessible only by boat for a long time. Due to the lack of flat land, the locals devised ingenious ways to live and developed a unique culture.

Access to Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands

- About 1.5 hours by train from Genoa with a transfer at Levanto or La Spezia.
- About 2.5 hours by train from Florence with a transfer at Pisa or La Spezia.

From La Spezia, during the summer season (scheduled from mid-April to early November, but subject to change yearly), the Cinque Terre Express tourist train operates and stops at all five villages of Cinque Terre. Outside the summer season, you can visit by regular trains, but note that some trains may not stop at every village depending on the time.

Additionally, during the summer, regular boats run between Portovenere and Monterosso, allowing access by sea.

Top 3 highlights of Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands

① The five villages of Cinque Terre and Their Precious Wine!

Cinque Terre means “Five Lands” in Italian and refers to the five villages along the Ligurian coast: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. These villages originated as fortress cities from the 11th to 12th centuries.

For nearly 1,000 years, there was no land route, and the area could only be accessed by boat, serving well as a fortress. However, due to the limited and poor quality of land, villagers spent hundreds of years creating terraced vineyards. The wine produced from these grapes, which soak up the Mediterranean sea breeze, is scarce and exquisite! When visiting Cinque Terre, you’ll definitely want to toast with the local wine.

② Enjoy trekking while admiring the spectacular views!

Cinque Terre offers many trekking courses. With options ranging from easy to challenging, anyone can give it a try! The fairy tale-like views will have you reaching for your camera again and again. Walk while looking down over the blue sea and feeling the sea breeze of Cinque Terre! Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes.

③ Portovenere, loved by British Poets

Portovenere is a port town also known as the “Port of Venus.” Colorful buildings line the small harbor, and simply walking through its narrow alleyways makes you feel as if you’re in a painting.

At the edge of the town stands the small Church of San Pietro, perched on a cliff jutting into the sea. Viewed from the sea, it looks like a fortress—truly impressive! Because many British poets favored the views near this church, the area is also called the “Bay of Poets.” You can even climb part of the church’s roof for a panoramic view of the bay—an absolutely breathtaking sight of the beautiful Riviera coast.

◎ Summary

This time we introduced the World Heritage Site of Portovenere and Cinque Terre. The blue sea and colorful houses leave a strong impression, making you feel as though you’ve stepped into a picture book. Be sure to experience the scenery and culture built throughout history with your own eyes!

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【World Heritage Site】What are Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands?｜Like something out of a picture book