Exploring the Enchanting Trails of Cinque Terre with Friends

Manarola's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

Today, the fourth day of our Cinque Terre adventure, was dedicated to the captivating village of Manarola. With my friends, I was eager to lose myself in its colorful streets and soak in the breathtaking coastal views. From savoring a delightful breakfast to witnessing the sunset over the Ligurian Sea, Manarola promised a day of unforgettable experiences, and it certainly delivered.



The day began with a hearty breakfast at Bar Giò 5 Terre back in Monterosso al Mare. I opted for a cappuccino and a freshly baked brioche, the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. Maximilian would have loved the anchovy and mussel dishes they are known for, but he wasn't here today. He's probably enjoying a quiet morning coding back in Dresden. The cafe buzzed with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in this beautiful corner of the world. It reminded me of the cozy cafes back in Ísafjörður, where the aroma of coffee mingles with the salty sea air.


Experience the authentic flavors of the Italian Riviera with breakfast, sandwiches, and fine wines at Bar Giò 5 Terre in Monterosso al Mare.

After breakfast, we hopped on the train to Manarola. As the train pulled into the station, the sight of the village clinging to the cliffs was simply mesmerizing. The colorful houses seemed to cascade down towards the harbor, creating a picture-postcard scene. The air was filled with the sound of seagulls and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. It was as if we had stepped into a dream.



Our first stop was the famed Manarola Overlook Viewpoint. The short climb was well worth the effort, as we were rewarded with the most iconic view of Manarola. From this vantage point, the village unfolded before us in all its glory. The pastel-hued buildings, the sparkling aquamarine waters, and the rugged coastline created a scene that was almost too beautiful to be real. I snapped countless photos, trying to capture the magic of the moment. Even though the viewpoint was bustling with fellow travelers, the sheer beauty of the panorama made it easy to find a quiet corner to simply soak it all in.


Experience unparalleled views of Manarola and the stunning Ligurian coastline at the breathtaking Manarola Overlook Viewpoint in Italy's Cinque Terre.

The beauty of Manarola lies not just in its picturesque views, but in the way it captures the heart and imagination, leaving an indelible mark on the soul.

Next, we wandered through the narrow, winding streets of Manarola, each corner revealing a new delight. We passed by charming shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, and the tantalizing aroma of Ligurian cuisine wafted from the trattorias lining the streets. It was tempting to stop at every single one! I couldn't resist popping into a small bottega to pick up some local pesto, a taste of Liguria to bring back home to Clara and Maximilian. I imagined Clara's face lighting up as she helped me prepare a pesto pasta dish, a little taste of our Italian adventure in our Dresden kitchen.



For lunch, we had the pleasure of dining at Nessun Dorma. Securing a table at this popular spot requires a bit of patience, but the experience is well worth the wait. Using their handy app, we joined the virtual queue and explored the village while we waited for our turn. When our table was finally ready, we were seated at a prime location overlooking the harbor. The view was simply breathtaking, and the food was equally impressive. We savored delicious bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, accompanied by a crisp, local white wine. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, as fellow diners shared stories and laughter against the backdrop of the stunning coastal scenery. I made a mental note to try their pesto-making class next time; learning to create that delicious sauce with such a view would be an unforgettable experience.


Experience authentic Italian flavors with stunning coastal views at Nessun Dorma in Manarola.

After lunch, we decided to explore the artistic side of Manarola by visiting the Presepe di Manarola. Although the full nativity scene is typically displayed from December to early January, I was still intrigued to learn about its history and significance. Created by Mario Andreoli, a retired railway worker, the Presepe is the world's largest nativity scene, featuring over 300 illuminated figures that adorn the hillside overlooking the village. It's a testament to the creativity and passion of the local community, and I can only imagine how magical it must be to witness the entire display during the Christmas season. I'll have to convince Maximilian and Clara to come back with me during the winter months to experience it firsthand. Perhaps we could even spend Christmas here, surrounded by the twinkling lights of the Presepe and the festive atmosphere of the village.


Discover the magic of the Presepe di Manarola, a stunning nativity scene illuminating the charm of this picturesque Italian village along the stunning Cinque Terre coastline.

As the afternoon drew to a close, we sought out a spot to enjoy a pre-dinner drink. We made our way to Chiosco del Sole Volastra Cinque Terre, a charming bar located a bit outside of Manarola, in Volastra. The reviews promised vegan delights, and as I am trying to incorporate more plant-based options into my diet, I was curious to check it out. The location required a bit of a walk, but the stunning views along the way made it a worthwhile detour. Unfortunately, we arrived shortly before closing time, but I did manage to enjoy a glass of local wine while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. The views from Volastra were simply stunning, offering a different perspective of the Cinque Terre coastline. I could see why this spot is a favorite among hikers and nature lovers. I made a mental note to return for a longer visit, perhaps combining it with a hike along the scenic trails that connect the villages.


Discover Chiosco del Sole in Cinque Terre, a perfect bar for coffee, light bites, and breathtaking views of the stunning coastal scenery.

For our final meal of the day, we chose Trattoria Via dell'Amore in Riomaggiore. We took the train to the neighboring village and found the trattoria near the train station. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and friendly service. We savored delicious seafood ravioli and swordfish, accompanied by local wine. The tiramisu was the perfect end to the meal. Trattoria Via dell'Amore provided a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the authentic flavors of the region. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Mediterranean dining with stunning sea views at Trattoria Via dell'Amore in Riomaggiore.

As the sun began to set, we found ourselves back in Manarola, drawn by the promise of one last breathtaking view. We joined the crowds gathered along the harbor, all eagerly awaiting the spectacle. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky exploded in a riot of colors – oranges, pinks, and purples painting the sky. The colorful houses of Manarola were bathed in a warm, golden light, creating a scene that was simply unforgettable. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such beauty, and a longing to share it with my loved ones back home.



Tomorrow, we plan to explore Corniglia, the only Cinque Terre village not directly on the sea. I'm particularly excited about the Scalinata Lardarina, a long staircase leading up to the village. I've heard the views from the top are incredible, and I'm always up for a good challenge. I am looking forward to more delicious food, as we plan to have breakfast at Il Pirata delle 5 Terre and lunch at A Cantina da Mananan. I also plan to visit Manarola Boutique. I will be on the lookout for a special souvenir to bring back to Clara, something that will remind her of our incredible adventure in Cinque Terre.



Manarola had certainly captured my heart. Its beauty, charm, and delicious cuisine had left an indelible mark on my soul. As I drifted off to sleep that night, I dreamt of colorful houses, sparkling waters, and the warm, inviting spirit of the Cinque Terre. I am so glad I decided to come here with my friends. This is an experience I will treasure forever. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings in Corniglia!