Walks of the Cinque Terre and Portofino

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Base yourself on the Italian Riviera, between the ravine-side fishing villages of the Cinque Terre and dreamy Portofino, for an inspiring hiking adventure. Guided by an expert tour leader, we explore some of the most iconic trails in Europe, walking through hills, woodland and coastal villages. Bring your camera and an appetite, the food here is as exquisite as the scenery, plus we visit a celebrated taverna for an extra-special wine tasting. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Hike the most scenic trails of the Italian Riviera with a small group of like-minded adventurers

  • Explore the famously beautiful fishing villages that form the Cinque Terre

  • Hike to the picturesque harbour village of Portofino

  • Join an extra-special wine tasting at a celebrated taverna

  • Enjoy a warm Italian welcome at our hotel near the beach in Moneglia

Places You'll See

Village Of Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Italy

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Start Moneglia

Location: Moneglia

Accommodation: Hotel

We begin in the seaside town of Moneglia. In the heart of a bay on the Mediterranean Sea, this picture-perfect town is listed on the I Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (Most Beautiful Villages of Italy) and has won a European Blue Flag every year since 1990 for its clear waters and the quality of the services offered. There’ll be a welcome briefing at the hotel today – a good chance to get to know the group and your expert leader.



If you have extra days at hand and are willing to extend your adventure, consider booking additional nights in Pisa, Florence or Moneglia. Speak to your Sales Consultant for more information on our ‘Pre-Tour’, ‘Post-Tour’ and ‘City Extension’ packages.
...more ...less

Day 2 : Follow The Coastal Trail Between Deiva Marina And The Villages Of Framura And Bonassola

Location: Deiva Marina, Bonassola, Framura

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We take an eight-minute train to Deiva Marina in the morning and start our walk, first climbing around 400 steps. We then take a relatively steep path, climbing up to picturesque woods of pine and strawberry trees. Our efforts are rewarded at the top of the hill with stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the promontory of Portofino.We then take an undulating trail with beautiful views over the Ligurian Sea, which leads to the village of Framura, where we stop for lunch. After refreshments, we descend by steps, which can be tough going, particularly in the wet, almost to sea level then meander through woods until a final steep climb for magnificent sea views. We then head to the pretty village of Bonassola before taking the 15-minute train back to our hotel in Moneglia .

Day 3 : Take The Train To Cinque Terre National Park; Walk Stunning Paths To Some Of The Prettiest Villages In Liguria

Location: Cinque Terre, Liguria

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we set out to visit the spectacular Cinque Terre, declared a Unesco World Heritage site in 1997 and part of the Cinque Terre National Park. The best way to explore these charming villages is on foot, and today we will walk the Sentiero Azzurro Ligure (Ligurian Blue Path), which connects the five villages.Today we visit three of the five – Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso – and pass old mule tracks, walking through terraced vineyards and olive groves. After completing steep and rocky sections with continuous ups and downs, we are rewarded with wonderful views of the colourful villages built into the rocks facing the sea.At the end of the walk, we catch the train back to Moneglia (30 minutes) where there will be time to relax or go for a swim before dinner. Please note that some sections of the path may be closed, so we may need to take the train between villages or change the itinerary accordingly.

Day 4 : Walk On The Portofino Promontory And Explore The World-Renowned Fishing Village

Location: Santa Margherita Ligure

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Set out by train to Santa Margherita Ligure (50 minutes with a change in Sestri Levante), a charming coastal town, where we begin our hike to the fishing village of Portofino, which starts with a near 2.5mi (4km) continuous uphill stretch. Celebrated for its pastel-coloured houses and picturesque harbour, the town is now attracting celebrities from all over the world.

Day 5 : Free Day To Relax, Take Optional Walks Or Visiting Nearby Portovenere Or Genova

Location: Genoa

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a well-earned break and perhaps spend your day relaxing at the beach. Or you might like to use the opportunity for some sightseeing. Genoa, the capital city of the region, is the home of Christopher Columbus and the largest aquarium in Europe. Alternatively, you could spend time in the nearby town of Portovenere – on the Bay of Poets – or use the day to explore the beautiful town of Lucca.

Day 6 : Transfer To Rapallo By Train, Take The Cable Car Up Montallegro For Fantastic Views And Walk Down To Chiavari, Afternoon Wine Tasting

Location: Rapallo, Chiavari

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, we take a short train ride to Rapallo (50 minutes with a change in Sestri Levante) and the cable car up to the sanctuary of Montallegro (1,969ft/600m). From here, we walk through quiet woodland, catching glimpses of the Ligurian Sea en route to the seaside town of Chiavari. In the early evening, we enjoy an extra-special wine tasting at Assirto, an internationally heralded taverna in Moneglia. The experience starts with a sparkling rosé, before we enjoy a sensory journey through a trio of wines. To cap the evening, we'll try passito, a traditional Italian sweet wine made from dried grapes.

Day 7 : Return To The Cinque Terre Area For An Alternative Walk Through Glorious Coastline And Colourful Villages

Location: Cinque Terre

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we head back to the Cinque Terre to walk some of the quieter, alternative trails. The exact route depends on local track conditions, but they are generally on higher ground than the classic Sentiero Azzurro, so offer even more spectacular views of the coastline and villages. The second part of the walk today will likely involve scrambling between Manarola and Rio Maggiore; if you’d prefer to skip this section, you can opt to take a boat (extra cost) instead.

Day 8 : End Moneglia

Location: Moneglia

Meals Included: Breakfast

You’ve taken some of the most beautiful coastal walks in the world this holiday, but now’s the time for one final breakfast before starting your return journey home. Of course, if you’d like to continue the adventure, you can speak to your sales consultant about extending your stay at the hotel.

What's Included

  • All breakfasts, two packed lunches, one dinner and one wine tasting

  • All accommodation (see accommodation section)

  • All transport and listed activities

  • Tour leader throughout

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

  • Single accommodation (available on request – limited availability)

  • Visas or vaccinations

  • Local taxes (approximately €5 per person, see Trip Notes)

Accommodation

Fifty years in the making, the Piccolo Hotel is the dream come true of the Zanetti family. Elsa and Luigi were the founders, before their son Alberto joined, followed by the next generation – Elsa and Luigi’s grandchildren.  



The 38-room hotel is in the centre of Moneglia, just a few minutes’ walk from the train station and a Blue Flag-rated sandy beach. When it’s time to relax, there’s the free-to-use Atlantis Wellness centre, which has a heated swimming pool with a waterfall and water jets, plus two underwater loungers.  



Elsewhere, there’s a solarium terrace with a hydromassage tub plus a sea-view restaurant serving Ligurian cuisine.  



Worth knowing 



A limited number of double rooms for sole use are available for a supplement, please enquire for details. 
...more ...less

Food

All breakfasts, two packed lunches, one dinner and one wine tasting are included.



Liguria is well-known for its delicious cuisine and classic regional dishes include pasta with pesto or walnut sauce, focaccia bread and, of course, plenty of seafood.



With an abundance of fresh local produce and plenty of restaurants to try in Moneglia, food is a highlight of the trip. Vegetarians are well-catered for in Italy, but please inform us when booking.



Please note, neither the hotel nor the restaurants in Moneglia are able to cater for people with severe celiac disease.
...more ...less

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    If you would like to be paired with a tour member of the same gender, there is no additional charge. A single supplement can be requested if you would like your own room.

  • Who is Exodus Travels?

    At Exodus Travels, we've been exploring the world for nearly 50 years. From Walking and Trekking, Cultural and Cycling, Responsible Wildlife, to Polar and our new Premium Adventures, we are proud to offer award-winning small group and self-guided tours to 100+ countries worldwide. ...more ...less

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    We are happy to assist with pre and post tour accommodation. Please enquire for detailed information.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights are not included with this tour.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, our local guides are English speaking.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 16 years old.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Calves of steel

A fabulous week in the Cinque Terre - not to be missed! The uphill sections can be a slog but the views are so rewarding that it really is worth it. Walking between the villages of the Cinque Terre is the best way to see the beauty of the area and, on the less used paths, see fewer tourists! The group was great fun, we all got on really well. Hotel Piccolo offers great breakfasts and the rooms are clean and adequate - it's easy to find walking from the station. ...more ...less

I LOVED this trip

I LOVED this trip...my 10th with Exodus but my first walking holiday, and there was so much to enjoy. The walks were tough and I was nervous; I'm used to walking much further but not used to such steep hills and the many, many steps. But though my legs were often screaming, it was well worth it and I'd highly recommend the trip and the area. The hotel was nice, rooms simple but had everything I needed, the town we stayed quiet but lovely, the restaurants are all fantastic in the town, and the beach is lovely - and it's a rare thing for a beach to not be dominated by the Italian 'beach clubs' that usually take up most of the best spots. The wine tasting is a very special evening. ...more ...less

Cinque Terre

Wonderful location, wonderful people, wonderful walks, wonderful leader, wonderful weather - what more could you want!

Cinque Terra

Fantastic views. Great guide

Great week of walking, great guide.

A wonderful week of great walking, fabulous scenery, lovely hotel, great food in the local restaurants, including a wine tasting - all coordinated by a fabulous guide.

Walks of the Cinque Terra and Portofino

We have done many Exodus walking holidays, usually Grade 3. This had the usual country paths and ups and downs but included the chance to see and swim in the sea every day and to travel on local trains. The base town was not too touristy so we could get a sense of real Italian life. A single centre in a family-run hotel made for a relaxed and comfortable time ...more ...less

The Beautiful walks of the Cinque Terre and Portofino

We have only very recently returned from the Exodus Adventure Holiday 'Walks of the Cinque Terre and Portofino' We had the most wonderful time exploring the stunning coast line and beautiful villages in this UNESCO World Heritage region. Using the excellent and efficient Italian train service we were able to access the start of each days walk. We climbed, and we descended through the steep hills and promontories that are the feature of this coast line, and go someway to preserving its unspoilt beauty. It was a hot week, but all of the walks were perfectly paced to meet all of the group needs, and expertly led by our wonderful guide. The History and geography of the area was explained to us as we went. The Cinque Terre villages revealed themselves through tantalising glimpses from upon high before we finally descended into their charming hearts. For anyone wanting to experience this stunning area of Italy, then this holiday is the perfect presentation. Exodus continue to deliver experiences to cherish for a lifetime. ...more ...less

Cinque Terre

My walking review is slightly truncated because of an Achilles injury ( this was our third week of walking). Our guide Michelle was wonderful. He did a great job of shifting the schedule due to rainy weather. He provided lots of historical and cultural information along the way. He did a great job of handling the folks that were not experienced hikers. Please pay attention to the hike ratings on this trip. A 3 rating is not easy! If you are not comfortable on rocky terrain or slight exposure this is not your trip. Moneglia is a delightful base village. Very low key and not overrun with tour groups. However, even in October the 5 villages got packed, but fortunately we spent one day there. Even though I spent a couple days with my foot on ice it was an enjoyable trip. ...more ...less

Walks of Portofino and Cinque Terre

Relaxed unhurried walking in stunning coastal scenery

Nice trip, but more challenging than most Lv 3

Overall, this is a good trip with a good guide. It is well organized and has plenty of opportunities for people who are less fit to skip a section or entire day. That said, it became very apparently some people did have to skip a day. While the trip notes mentioned steep and loose descents, I would say about 6 out of 15 people on my trip were not prepared for what was ahead of them. More emphasis should be put on the difficulty of the terrain on the main tour page to make it a little more obvious. Maybe also a picture or two of the steps in the trip notes. Having completed several Exodus trips, this felt more like a level 4 trip, not level 3. I think this may be why the wrong audience was attracted, which took away from my personal experience. An example of this was seeing a 70+ year old member of the group refusing to use two hiking poles and ending up falling down a cliff. Luckily this person was okay, but this is a situation we should not have been in. ...more ...less

Read all 51 reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Saturday

May 10, 2025 - May 17, 2025
$2325 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

May 17, 2025 - May 24, 2025
$2475 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025
$2325 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

Walks of the Cinque Terre and Portofino

8 Days Starting and ending in Moneglia

Visiting: Moneglia, Deiva Marina, Bonassola, Framura, Cinque Terre, Liguria, Santa Margherita Ligure, Genoa, Rapallo, Chiavari ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

TEH

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 15

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Please inform Exodus of specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Wine Tasting

From: $2325 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 28-Feb-2025 but subject to change.