Manarola Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!

Perched on the rugged cliffs of the Ligurian Sea, Manarola is one of the most enchanting villages in Cinque Terre, Italy. With its vibrant, colorful houses appearing to cascade towards the sea, the village offers breathtaking views at every turn. If you dream of beautiful coastlines, charming streets, and the taste of authentic Italian cuisine, then Manarola is the perfect destination for you. Whether you’re exploring charming trails or savoring local wines in a piazza cafe, this picturesque village is truly a feast for the senses.

The Italian Riviera setting provides the ideal backdrop for hiking enthusiasts and lovers of the outdoors. The village is part of the Cinque Terre National Park, offering a network of trails connecting the five villages atop coastal landscapes. As the second-smallest Cinque Terre town, Manarola promises a more intimate exploration of Italian culture and beauty.

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Wander the narrow alleys that twist through the town, leading to hidden gems like the small harbor and scenic vistas. Don’t miss the opportunity to swim in the clear waters or embark on a scenic boat tour for a unique perspective of this vibrant coastal haven. Whether for adventure or relaxation, Manarola is a captivating destination.

How To Get To Manarola

To reach Manarola, you have several options. Train travel is popular and convenient. The Cinque Terre Express links Manarola with neighboring villages like Monterosso, Vernazza, and Corniglia. Trains run frequently, especially from La Spezia, which is a major transport hub in the area. Near the train station, you can also explore the nearby town of Levanto.

Ferry services offer a scenic way to arrive. Boats operate among the Cinque Terre villages, providing breathtaking views of the coastline. Check schedules as services adjust according to the season and weather.

Driving is possible, but parking in Manarola is limited and can be costly. Expect to pay around 2 euros per hour, increasing to about 20 euros for a full day. We recommend booking a rental car in advance to ensure you have a car waiting for you.

To make your arrival hassle-free, we recommend booking a private taxi.

For those who enjoy hiking, set off on a trail from Volastra. This gives you a chance to explore the beautiful landscape on foot. Public transportation or a rental car can get you to Volastra first.

With these transport options, getting to Manarola seamlessly connects you to the rest of the enchanting Cinque Terre region.

What To See In Manarola

Manarola, a gem in the Cinque Terre, offers breathtaking views with its colorful houses cascading down to the Ligurian Sea. The Manarola Marina is a perfect spot where you can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

Explore the terraced vineyards and try local wines like the sweet sciacchetrà. Enjoy a vineyard walk or a wine tasting at Cantina.

Take a stroll on the famous Via dell’Amore, also known as the Way of Love. This path presents panoramic views of the mesmerizing sea and cliffs.

Visit the Church of San Lorenzo with its charming bell tower. The Chiesa di San Lorenzo is a must-see with its ancient architecture and history.

Don’t miss the Manarola Nativity Scene during the holiday season. Situated on Punta Bonfiglio, this display is the largest in the world and lights up the village beautifully.

For hiking enthusiasts, the Sentiero Azzurro offers trails with scenic vistas. The hike to nearby Corniglia is particularly rewarding.

When it comes to food, indulge in fresh seafood and pesto at places like Trattoria de Billy and Nessun Dorma. Try the focaccia and pizza from local eateries. Enjoy a sweet treat at Gelateria 5 Terre.

Wherever you stay in Manarola, the options are plentiful, from luxury apartments to cozy spots like L’Emporio Rooms.

Best Tours in Manarola

Looking for something memorable to do in Manarola? Try one of these tours:

Check out our articles on the best things to do in Manarola, Italy and best restaurants in Manarola, Italy for even more ideas!

Where to Stay in Manarola

Read our article on hotels near Manarola, Italy for the best options for your stay. Here’s a short list of some options:

If you’re looking to stay in a vacation home, apartment, BnB, or VRBO in Manarola, Italy, we recommend you search on VRBO, Hotels.com, and Booking.com for up-to-date options.

History Of Manarola

Manarola, a charming village in Italy’s Cinque Terre, dates back to Roman times. It’s a place where history blends with stunning landscapes. In the 12th century, it began as a fishing and agricultural settlement. Over the centuries, it became part of the Republic of Genoa, a powerful maritime state.

By the 1300s, Manarola developed into a thriving community. It was fortified with a castle and watchtower to guard against pirate attacks. These structures stood near the village’s heart, demonstrating its historical significance.

The Church of San Lorenzo, built in 1338, is a key historical site. This Gothic-style church is notable for its beautiful rose window. Nearby, the Oratory of the Disciplinati served as a meeting place for religious gatherings, reflecting the village’s spiritual heritage.

Antonio Discovolo, an influential painter, captured Manarola’s beauty in his artworks. His paintings showcased the essence of the village and contributed to its recognition beyond Italy. Today, Manarola is not only known for its history but also for the production of Sciacchetrà, a cherished dessert wine.

Visitors are drawn to Manarola for its rich history and captivating views, making it a must-visit destination in Italy.

Nearby Towns to Manarola

Manarola, one of the picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre on the Ligurian coast, is surrounded by several larger towns that offer a variety of attractions and experiences. Here are five of the closest big towns to Manarola:

La Spezia: La Spezia is a bustling port city known for its naval history and proximity to the Cinque Terre. The city features the impressive Naval Technical Museum, beautiful waterfront promenades, and easy access to the picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre.
Levanto: Levanto is a gateway to the Cinque Terre and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and excellent hiking trails. The town offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to its famous neighbors, making it a great base for exploring the region.
Genoa: Genoa, the capital of Liguria, is known for its rich maritime history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Key attractions include the historic port, the Aquarium of Genoa, and the UNESCO-listed Palazzi dei Rolli.
Rapallo: Rapallo is a popular resort town known for its scenic waterfront, historic castles, and vibrant marina. The town offers a blend of cultural attractions, including the ancient Castello sul Mare and the nearby sanctuary of Montallegro.
Chiavari: Chiavari is a charming town with a well-preserved historic center, featuring arcaded streets and elegant palaces. The town is known for its vibrant markets, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.