Taking the train from Florence to Cinque Terre
From Florence, a train trip to Cinque Terre will take you to one of the “Five Lands” the region is named for. A string of fishing villages perched high along the Riviera's coast make up Cinque Terre, with each village having its own train station. Although there are no direct trains to Cinque Terre from Florence, the choice of transfer location opens up a host of sightseeing opportunities. The rugged natural beauty of the region makes this train journey from Florence all the more exciting.
Nearest train station: Firenze Santa Maria Novella
Cinque Terre via Pisa
If you want to know another option with how to get to Cinque Terre from Florence, a day trip to Pisa can easily be added to your travel plans. Starting out early in the morning, it's possible to first take a regional train to Pisa, about 70 km away. With Trenitalia trains running frequently, you can complete the journey to Cinque Terre at your leisure later in the evening. Along with the Square of Miracles, which is home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, this famous Italian city is filled with museums, beautiful cathedrals, and striking architecture. Luckily for you, one day in Pisa is enough to take it all in.
Fastest journey time: 49m
How to get to Cinque Terre from La Spezia
Before arriving in Cinque Terre, there is one final transfer at La Spezia, less than an hour along the coast from Pisa by train. Time will pass quickly on this stage of the journey, as you take in the breathtaking sights of the Riviera. Take your time in La Spezia and enjoy the blooming public gardens, waterfront harbour, and beautiful basilicas. History lovers will find great pleasure in the 13th-century San Giorgio Castle and archaeological museum. If you're wondering how to get to Cinque Terre from La Spezia, Cinque Terre Express trains run almost 24 hours a day for the final leg of the journey, which takes less than 10 minutes.
Fastest journey time: 42m
Florence to Cinque Terre – day trip
If your time is limited and you wish to go on a day trip from Florence to Cinque Terre without any excursions along the way, this is also possible. Beginning before dawn and continuing throughout the day, trains leave frequently from Florence to Cinque Terre. As it only takes about three hours, including transfers, to Riomaggiore, the first of the five coastal villages, this gives you a full day to explore. You're going to need it if you want to experience everything that Cinque Terre has to offer.
Fastest journey time: 2h 44m
Cinque Terre National Park
The smallest national park in Italy, the Cinque Terre National Park is designed as a pedestrian space and surrounds the five villages that make up Cinque Terre. This stunning and unique UNESCO World Heritage Site features cultivated sloping land offering a wealth of local produce and wonderful views. The whole region is packed with walking trails and tracks. As it's also one of the most populated national parks, you won’t have to look far to find a good meal made from the freshest ingredients.
Nearest train station: Any of the Cinque Terre village train stops
Footpath Monterosso
If you're short on time, the easiest way to travel between the Cinque Terre villages is by train, which takes only a few minutes from station to station. For the physically fit, we highly recommend making the walk from Vernazza to Monterosso. The scenic Footpath Monterosso is a narrow path along the cliffs that connects the two villages, and takes about 2 hours to follow.
Nearest train station: Monterosso or Vernazza
Guvano Beach
The secluded Guvano Beach requires a little effort to find. Unlike the other Cinque Terre villages, Corniglia is not next to the sea but overlooking it. Surrounded on three sides by steep terraces and vineyards, this village is not easily accessible except by train. Visitors arriving at Corniglia train station must climb about 380 steps, known as the Lardarina, to reach this tiny village. Access to Guvano Beach is via an abandoned railway tunnel, where you will discover that clothing is optional here.
Nearest train station: Corniglia
Whether you seek the vibrant crowds of Pisa or the slow pace of life in the Italian Riviera's remote fishing villages, you now know some ways on how to get to Cinque Terre from Florence. A trip by train from Florence to Cinque Terre can take you there with ease.