Travel Info
Trains
Trains in Italy, like anywhere, can be a bit stressful. Build a buffer into your itinerary in case there is a delay. That being said, the last time we visited the trains were on time to the minute. Doors close one minute before departure and you have to press a small button on the door to get off. Pro tip, your bag will probably fit in the space behind your seat. The station signs can be hard to see, especially at night, and some of the regional trains do not announce which stop you are approaching. Plan your itinerary here or use one of the train companies websites. Italo trains are usually a little nicer.
Planes
While Pisa is closer to Cinque Terre we recommend flying in to Florence, mostly because it’s cheaper and there is more to see. If you are planning on traveling to other parts of Italy, Venice and Rome also make great starting points.
If possible, avoid a stressful situation and do not book an early morning flight back to the US. Italian mass transit is not 24hrs and generally starts operating later than it does in the States. Let us know if you have any questions, we are happy to help plan your route!
Automobiles
Cars are not allowed in most of Cinque Terre so be prepared to walk. There is a parking lot in Monterosso and a small lot above Manarola if you’d prefer to drive instead of train. We have never driven in Italy but it looks pretty straight forward. However, most credit card rental insurances do NOT cover Italy, although the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Preferred cards do. Speed cameras are also a thing.
Accommodations
Europeans think everything is big in America because everything in Europe is small, including the hotel rooms. If you are traveling with your family some hotels offer “family rooms” which is probably the way to go. Available accommodations change all the time but if you find one you like and want a second opinion, don’t hesitate to reach out.
If you are planning on traveling for more than a week we recommend booking a place with a washing machine mid-trip to cut down on your luggage. Dryers are uncommon but a clothes line and pins are usually provided.
Terrain
Expect a lot of stairs and hills and pack accordingly. Monterosso is the flattest of the five towns while Corniglia is the steepest. All of the towns are very small so you won’t be trekking up hill for long (Corniglia being the exception).
Language
Cinque Terre survives on fishing and tourism so most locals speak English. Train announcements (when they happen) are made in Italian and English. Learn the basics (thank you, “grazie” hello, “ciao”) and you will be fine.
Dining
Italians eat late and some restaurants don’t open until 7 at night. You will always be able to find food but it may be take away only or a less traditional dinner. Tipping is not expected in Italy but is appreciated. If you receive exceptional service feel free to tip, 5-10% is the norm.
Money
Cash is preferred but most establishments take Visa and Mastercard. We recommend bringing at least three to four hundred in Euro. If they don’t have Euros on hand most banks can order it in 5 business days. DO NOT use an exchange booth at the airport as their rates are terrible.
Things may not go as planned
This will come as surprise because they brought us the Fiat, but transportation can be unreliable in Italy. We have always had pretty good luck but don’t stress out if something isn’t going as planned, you’ll get to where you are going, it might just take longer than anticipated. Italians are laid back, so just go with the flow.
Weather
The weather is usually pretty nice in May and temps hover around the high 60’s, low 70’s during the day and dip to the high 50’s at night. There can be an occasional shower or thunderstorm so pack a light raincoat. The locals think it’s too cold to swim in May but we recommend bringing a bathing suit in case you want to take a dip in the Mediterranean!
Pick Pockets
That pretty Italian girl or dreamy Italian boy cozying up to you on the train isn’t interested in you (it hurts, I know). Although the number of pick pockets has declined, remain aware of your surroundings, especially on the short train rides between the towns of Cinque Terre.