If you’re planning a trip to the Italian Riviera – and let’s be honest, who isn’t at least dreaming about it? – chances are you’ve come across two places again and again: Cinque Terre and Portofino.
Both are stunning, small towns, sitting on Italy’s picturesque Ligurian coast, and both promise unforgettable views, delicious food, and plenty of la dolce vita vibes. But they offer very different experiences, so which one should you choose for your trip? Let’s break it down and see whether you should visit Cinque Terre or Portofino.
Cinque Terre: Colourful Villages and Coastal Adventures
Cinque Terre is all about the five colourful villages that hug the cliffside, the cliffside trails, and the authentic Italian charm. It’s rustic, lively, and wonderfully unpolished in the best way. Imagine pastel houses stacked against dramatic cliffs, fishing boats bobbing in tiny harbours, and laundry lines fluttering in the sea breeze.
Why Visit Cinque Terre?
Cinque Terre isn’t just one place, it’s actually five charming villages, each with its own character: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. They’re connected by train, ferries, and walking paths, making it easy to hop between them.
Best Things to Do in Cinque Terre
- Village hop: You’ve heard of city hopping, but this puts a very picturesque twist on it. The best thing to do in Cinque Terre is, quite honestly, hop between the villages and see the different characters of each
- Hike the Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro): This iconic coastal path takes you from village to village with jaw-dropping views at every turn. The whole trail is about 12km but you can do sections of it if you don’t want to walk to whole way. For serious hikers, the longer Sentiero Rosso is a rewarding challenge.
- Taste the local pesto: Liguria (the Italian region) is the birthplace of pesto, and Cinque Terre is one of the best places to sample it. Try it with trofie pasta, paired with a crisp local white wine, yum!
- Swim and sunbathe: Monterosso boasts the region’s only sandy beach, but every village offers a chance to cool off in the sea, whether by diving from rocks or lounging by the harbour.
- Catch the sunset in Manarola: It’s one of the most photographed spots in Italy, and when the light hits the colourful buildings just right, you’ll see why. It’s also a great spot to visit during the day for that Instagram photo, and you can then catch sunset in Riomaggiore as it dip behind the cliffs.
Who Is Cinque Terre For?
Adventurers, foodies, hikers, anyone who dreams of that ‘postcard Italy’ view…basically anyone! If you have mobility issues you may not enjoy Cinque Terre as there are a fair number of hills and steps to get around.
How long do you need to visit Cinque Terre?
2-3 days is the perfect amount of time to visit the five villages of Cinque Terre. If you are tight on time you can visit all five in one day but it’s a long day and doesn’t let you fully enjoy the different villages.
Portofino: Glamour and La Dolce Vita Vibes
Portofino is the glamorous star of the Italian Riviera. Once a simple Italian fishing village, it’s now synonymous with luxury. Think grand yachts, designer boutiques, and cocktails in the chic waterfront piazza. But don’t be fooled though, behind the glamour Portofino remains stunningly picturesque, with its semicircle of colourful buildings lining the quaint little harbour.
Why Visit Portofino?
Portofino is the perfect spot for an elegant, and effortlessly stylish day trip. It has the picture perfect views with a fraction of the Cinque Terre crowds. Portofino also offers a slower pace than Cinque Terre, but with a more polished and exclusive feel.
Best Things to Do in Portofino
- Explore the Piazzetta: The charming town square is the heart of Portofino, and a perfect spot for people watching with an espresso or aperitivo in hand. Be warned, the stunning surroundings do come with a slight price tag.
- Climb to Castello Brown: A short uphill walk leads to this historic ‘fortress’, where you’ll find panoramic views of the harbour and further coastline.
- Walk to the lighthouse, Faro di Portofino: The scenic path to the tip of the peninsula is worth it for the coastal and sea views.
- Indulge in luxury experiences: Portofino caters well to those who enjoy the finer things in life so it’s the perfect spot to enjoy some shopping or fine dining. Or wander the harbour and marvel at the impressive yachts that are moored, looking out for which one you’ll buy when that lottery win comes in!
Who Is Portofino For?
Luxury seekers, day trippers, yacht enthusiasts, and travellers who want a slice of Riviera glamour without lacing up hiking boots. It’s a bit of effort to get to from the larger cities, but it sure is worth it!
How long do you need to visit Portofino?
Portofino is the perfect day trip, with just enough to fill your day without feeling like you’re rushing from sight to sight to be able to see anything. It’s part of the Portofino charm that you can have a leisurely day exploring, but it’s also a great spot for a quiet, relaxed holiday break.
Cinque Terre vs. Portofino: Key Differences
Still torn? Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
- Time needed: Cinque Terre is best for a multi-day stay – about 2-3 days – visiting all 5 villages in one day is quite a lot. Portofino works beautifully as a day trip or a quick overnight stop.
- Travel Style: Cinque Terre is great for hikers and foodies looking for authenticity, or if you want to see the iconic villages on the cliff. Portofino is for those who want a taste of elegance and relaxation, with much quieter vibes. Cinque Terre is a place to see and do things, Portofino is more of a spot to enjoy at leisure.
- Budget: Cinque Terre has options ranging from guesthouses to boutique hotels. Portofino, on the other hand, is famously pricey.
- Crowds: Both get busy in summer, and while Cinque Terre’s five villages spread out the crowds, getting the train between the villages can be cramped. Portofino is compact, so it can feel packed more easily.
- Ease of Access: Cinque Terre is easily accessible by train, with each village having their own station and a handy ferry running during the summer between the villages and nearby coastal towns. Portofino is a bit more involved with a train and then either a bus or ferry.
So…Cinque Terre or Portofino?
Well the truth of it is, you can’t really go wrong whichever you choose. If you have the time, I’d absolutely recommend that you do both. Spend a few days hiking, swimming, and feasting your way through Cinque Terre, then treat yourself to a day trip in Portofino for a taste of Riviera glamour.
But if you have to choose? Well then:
- For rustic, adventurous Italy → Go for Cinque Terre.
- For chic, relaxing Italy → Portofino’s calling your name.
Either way, you’ll be living your Italian Riviera dream and will have the most stunning views!
Travel tip: For maximum flexibility, base yourself in Santa Margherita Ligure.
It’s perfectly located to explore Portofino and even hop down to Cinque Terre by train.
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