Explore the Enigmatic Ruins of Doria Tower
Uncover the beauty of Vernazza at the historic Ruins of Doria Tower with stunning views and rich medieval history.
A brief summary to Ruins of Doria Tower
- Vernazza, Province of La Spezia, IT
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
- Thursday 10 am-7 pm
- Friday 10 am-7 pm
- Saturday 10 am-7 pm
- Sunday 10 am-7 pm
The Ruins of Doria Tower, a striking remnant of medieval architecture, are situated in the charming village of Vernazza, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cinque Terre region. As you ascend the winding paths leading to the tower, you will be captivated by the vibrant colors of the surrounding buildings and the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The tower itself, though in ruins, stands as a testament to the strategic importance of this location during the medieval period, offering stunning views of both the coastline and the village below. Visitors can explore the remnants of the tower, learning about its storied past and the role it played in the defense against pirates and invaders. The atmosphere is imbued with history, and you can almost hear the echoes of the past as you wander through the ruins. As you reach the top, the panoramic views are simply breathtaking, offering a perfect photo opportunity to capture the beauty of Vernazza and the surrounding landscapes. The best time to visit is during the late afternoon when the golden hour casts a magical glow over the tower and the village. Be sure to bring your camera and wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be steep. The Doria Tower serves not only as a historical monument but also as a scenic lookout, making it an essential stop for any traveler seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of this picturesque region.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
- Wear sturdy shoes as the paths can be steep and uneven.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
- Consider combining your visit with a hike on the nearby trails for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you're in Vernazza, start at the main square (Piazza Marconi). From the square, head towards the church (Chiesa di Santa Margherita d'Antiochia) and go past it. Follow the signs for 'Castello Doria' that will guide you to the trail. The path is well marked, and you will be walking uphill along a narrow trail. It should take about 15-20 minutes to reach the Ruins of Doria Tower.
-
Train + Walking
If you're in Monterosso al Mare, take the train towards Vernazza (the ride takes about 3-5 minutes). Once you arrive at Vernazza station, exit and head towards the main square (Piazza Marconi). From there, follow the same walking directions as provided above to reach the Ruins of Doria Tower.
-
Train + Walking
From Corniglia, take the train to Vernazza. The journey takes about 4 minutes. After exiting the train station in Vernazza, follow the signs to Piazza Marconi, then proceed to the church and follow the trail uphill towards the Ruins of Doria Tower.
-
Train + Walking
If you're in Riomaggiore, take the train to Vernazza (this will take about 20-30 minutes with a transfer at Manarola). Once in Vernazza, navigate to Piazza Marconi, then follow the path towards the church and up to the Ruins of Doria Tower.
Attractions Nearby to Ruins of Doria Tower
- Port of Vernazza
- Church of St. Margaret of Antioch
- Vernazza Beach
- Cantina Cheo
- Sentiero Monterosso - Vernazza
- Guvano Beach
- Sentiero Azzurro
- Bel Mar Boat Tours - Cinque Terre Boat Tours
- Sea Breeze Boat Tours - Monterosso
- Fish and Chill Boat Tour
- Aquamarina Boat Tour
- Giardino pubblico
- Statua di San Francesco d'Assisi
- Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre
- Cinque Terre National Park
Landmarks nearby to Ruins of Doria Tower
- La Malà
- Route Cinqueterre Boat Tours Vernazza
- Around CinqueTerre
- La Polena - Camere Vernazza 5 Terre
- Il Conventino delle 5 Terre
- Cinque de Terre
- Villa Cinque Terre
- Tiburon Boat Services di Andrea Berio
- Calipso Boat Tours
- Torre Aurora
- Ristorante L'Ancora della Tortuga
- L’Agave Cinque Terre
- Il Giardino Incantato B&B
- Fabbrica D'Arte Monterosso
- Enoteca Internazionale