Cinque Terre Photography Guide: The Villages and Viewpoints
The best viewpoints of the Cinque Terre, from Manarola to Vernazza, with tips on trains, trails and light timings to avoid the crowds.
The Cinque Terre are five candy-coloured villages clinging to the Ligurian cliffs. They are stunning but small and crowded: photographing them well takes method. Here is our guide.
Manarola, the classic postcard
The most famous viewpoint is the path towards Manarola's cemetery, which takes in the village above the sea. The best light is at blue hour, just after sunset, when the houses light up. Arrive an hour early to find a spot.
Vernazza and its little harbour
Vernazza offers a seafront square and a small harbour with colourful boats, perfect for portraits. Climb to the terrace of the Doria castle for a view from above. Early morning the alleys are empty and the light is soft.
Trains, trails and permits
The villages connect in minutes by regional train: the Cinque Terre Card costs around €18.50 a day. The trails offer spectacular views but need hiking shoes. Handheld shots need no permit; drones and professional tripods do.
