Discover one of the most beautiful and popular places in Italy with this shore excursion and explore 3 villages of Cinque Terre - Vernazza, Monterosso, and Riomaggiore.
Once you arrive at the port of La Spezia, you will hop on the free port shuttle that will take you to the cruise terminal area. The tour guide will be waiting for you as you exit the shuttle. From there, it's a 20-minute walk to the train station where you will begin your adventure. On the walk, you will discover the beautiful city center of La Spezia as your guide leads the way.
The first stop on your train ride will be Vernazza, a small fishing village that is probably the most characteristic of the Cinque Terre and is classified as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. The village is enclosed by very steeply-terraced olive orchards which are said to produce among the finest olive oil in the country. Here you will enjoy some free time to discover the village. This little village is surrounded by subtle colorful pastels and the charming piazza is lined with good restaurants and bars.
Up next is Monterosso, also known as Monterosso al Mare. This town anchors the Cinque Terre on the northern end. Here you will find different attractions besides restaurants and shops. The village, known for its lemon trees and anchovies, is delightful. Split in two, its new and old halves are linked by an underground tunnel burrowed beneath the San Cristoforo cliff. One of the activities you will be able to enjoy is a Limoncino tasting. This a traditional lemon liqueur from this region which you will have the opportunity to taste in one of the most traditional shops. While In Monterosso, you will have free time to discover the village and have lunch. Among the attractions is a panoramic terrace, where you can see the statue of St. Francis of Assisi.
The last stop will be Riomaggiore. Cinque Terre's easternmost village, Riomaggiore is also the largest. The town climbs up along the ridges overlooking the sea and it is characterized by the typical stone houses with colored facades and slate roofs. Discover and walk through the narrow streets of this town, where you can take in beautiful landscapes. Visit the fishing port and a panoramic terrace from where you will appreciate the particular construction of Riomaggiore and the Gulf of Cinque Terre.
At the end of your time in Riomaggiore, you will hop back on the train for the return trip back to La Spezia. The excursion will end at the train station where you can explore on your own or take a short taxi ride back to the cruise terminal where you can catch the shuttle back to the ship. Don't forget your camera as this beautiful landscape will leave you speechless!
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