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 Introduction
The most exquisite fresh seafood and pasta can be found in this enchanting fishing village. And the sea is easily accessible for those in need of a cooling plunge. Surrounding the village, are lovely olive groves which are said to produce Italy's best olive oil.
Vernazza is the second northernmost town of the five villages. Visitors should pay a visit to each of the others, Monterossa al Mare, Manarola, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore, by hiking along the footpath which stretches for 4.5 km (9 miles). The five towns are also connected by the local train which runs along the Spezia-Genoa line.
Arrival Plane
The Cinque Terre is located between Pisa and Genoa, approximately 100 km from each city. Both Genoa's (GOA) “Aeroporto Di Genova”, and Pisa's “Pisa International Galileo Galilei Airport” are logical arrival point for international travelers. Both airports accommodate flights from around Italy, as well as many cities throughout Europe. Ryanair runs direct flights from London Stanstead to Genoa, and Lufthansa runs three daily flights out of Munich. To Pisa, Air France, Alitalia, and EasyJet operate daily flights from Paris. And several airlines fly direct from London.
Train
From Genoa, take the train to La Spezia, a one and a half hour ride. The journey from Pisa is slightly shorter. Trains from La Spezia to the Cinque Terre depart every hour. The journey takes 30 minutes. Local trains connect all five towns.
Car
Exit the A12/E80 motorway at Carrodano-Levanto, and follow the road to Riomaggiore, where you can park the car in an indoor garage. Another small parking lot is available just north of Vernazza.
Boat
In summer, ferry boats connect all five villages, as well as nearby coastal towns.
History and Culture
In 1874, the railway line was constructed, linking La Spezia to Genoa, thus offering a chance for visitors to easily enter the region, and ending the Cinque Terre's virtual isolation.
In 1997 the five villages of the Cinque Terre became a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Churches and Museums
Overlooking the harbor of Vernazza, this 1318 church includes a beautiful bell tower with an octagonal shape that rises to a height of 40-meters. Constructed in the gothic style, details of the local black rock can be found in the interior, as well as a tabernacle from the 15th century.
Sanctuary of the Madonna Reggio
A walk through the hills brings you to this 11th century church. A statue of the Black Madonna is housed inside.
Historical Buildings and Monuments
Constructed in the middle ages to defend the town against pirate raids, this ancient castle is worth a visit, for its historical importance as well as for the views.
Places of Interest
The beginning of the hike toward Corniglia is one of the most beautiful parts of the footpath that connects all five villages. Between the train station and the harbor, on the north side of the main street, is the beginning of the trail. The hike takes 90 minutes.
The Village Square
Relax at one of the restaurants that line the village square and enjoy the local pesto, olive oil, and wine, while watching daily life occur around you.
Events
In the middle ages, Vernazza was attacked by pirates. But the villagers successfully fought them off and defended their town. Each year the townsfolk come together to celebrate the victory.
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Vernazza Travel Guide
Single room - From 65€