The Blue Trail, also known as "Sentiero Azzuro", is the most famous path in the region and has historically linked all five Cinque Terre villages. However, due to landslides, the sections between Corniglia and Manarola is currently closed. This means you can only access the 7.2km stretch that connects Monterosso, Vernazza and Corniglia and the 1km section between Manarola and Riomaggiore called Via dell'Amore.

Monterosso --> ✔️ --> Vernazza --> ✔️ --> Corniglia --> ❌ --> Manarola --> ✔️ --> Riomaggiore

1) Monterosso - Vernazza section

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.7km
Completion time: 1.5h - 2h
Route Type: Point-to-point

Details

• Starting Point: The trail starts at the eastern end of Monterosso's beach. Follow Via Corone and look for the trailhead marked by signs for Vernazza near the old town section.
• Along the Way: The path climbs steeply out of Monterosso, with numerous steps and narrow passages but the trail then levels out and descends toward Vernazza. As you approach Vernazza, you'll be treated to one of the most iconic views of the trail—a panoramic overlook of Vernazza's harbor, castle, and colorful buildings. The trail is well-maintained but can be rocky and uneven.
• End Point: The trail ends in the village of Vernazza, where you can explore its narrow lanes, harbor, and historic sites like the Doria Castle. From Vernazza, you can choose to hike back to Monterosso, continue hiking to the next village (Corniglia), or take the train back.

2) Vernazza - Corniglia section

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.5km
Completion time: 1.5h
Route Type: Point-to-point

Details

• Starting Point: The trail starts in Vernazza, from the central square near the harbor. Follow Via Carattino and look for signs directing towards Corniglia, which will guide you to the trailhead.
• Along the Way: This segment of the Blue Trail offers a mix of coastal views, terraced vineyards, and lush vegetation. The path includes both ascents and descents, but generally, it is less steep compared to the Monterosso to Vernazza section. A little oasis about half way through is the Bar Il Gabbiano, which offers an open patio with fantastic view of Corniglia atop its cliff as well as fresh orange juice.
• End Point: The trail ends in Corniglia, the only Cinque Terre village not directly on the sea, situated atop a steep cliff. From Corniglia, you can choose to hike back to Vernazza or take the train back.

Practical Tips

• Entry cost: Between March and October, you will be required to purchase the Cinque Terre Trekking Card to access both trails (7.50€ for 1 day or 14.50€ for 2 days). The card can be purchased at the checkpoint cabins at the start of each trail (cash only), at the different train stations or in advance online.
• Start early or late: To avoid the worst of the crowds and the midday heat, start your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This is especially important during the tourist season.
• Wear sturdy shoes: Proper footwear is required, otherwise you could be turned away at the trail starting points.
• Water and snacks: There are limited opportunities to refill water bottles on the trail, so bring enough to stay hydrated.
• Sun protection: Most parts of the trails are exposed, so sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended.

3) Manarola - Riomaggiore section (Via dell'Amore)

Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1km
Completion time: 30min
Route Type: Point-to-point

Details

• After an almost 12-year closure due to lanslide damage, the path reopened to the public in August 2024. The paved path linking Manarola and Riomaggiore is only about 900m long, but provides breathtaking views of the rugged coast.
• The path is only accessible by booking a time slot and paying a €10 supplement on top of the standard €7.50, which gives access to all footpaths (there is no ticket for Via dell'Amore only). You can buy your ticket online here.
• The entrance is from Riomaggiore and the route is one-way only with an exit at Manarola
• The path is open from 9.30AM to 5PM during low season (1st November to 31st March) and from 8.30AM to 9.30PM during high season