Italy

Hiking the Cinque Terre

Program No. 21050RJ
Immerse yourself in a commingling of earth and sea as you explore the coastal walkways and beautiful landscapes of five villages nestled between the mountains and the Mediterranean.

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

At a Glance

There are few places on Earth where the marriage of land and sea is more poetic than the Cinque Terre — the “Five Towns” along the Italian Riviera. Here, fishing villages cling to the hillsides above hidden coves, medieval fortresses still stand guard, vineyards and olive trees thrive in the Mediterranean sun and dramatic cliffs plunge to the sea below. Connecting each of the five towns are centuries-old foot paths that offer intimate views of the sea-swept landscape. Join us on glorious walks amid the beautiful ruins and rugged hillsides of the Cinque Terre. For people who love to hike and experience local culture up close, there is no place better.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Hiking up to six hours a day, steps and rugged paths. Sturdy walking/hiking shoes are required (ankle-high shoes are highly recommended). Due to the nature of the terrain, a good head for heights is necessary.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Enjoy expert-led walks on stunningly beautiful footpaths connecting the villages of the Cinque Terre.
  • Join the president of the Lunigiana Wine Route on his beautiful property and learn about the local wine, cheeses and focaccia bread.
  • Hike through a chestnut forest to the abandoned and beautifully maintained village of Vergheto.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Leonardo Mastropasqua
Leonardo Mastropasqua graduated from a private high school in Rome before enlisting for military service. After completing his service as an artillery lieutenant, he began leading safaris in East Africa. He climbed Mount Kilimanjaro several times with a variety of groups. While he makes his home in Italy, Leonardo also feels at home in Scandinavia thanks to his Swedish mother, and he leads groups there every summer. Leonardo is eager to share his knowledge and passion for Europe with Road Scholar participants.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Leonardo Mastropasqua
Leonardo Mastropasqua View biography
Leonardo Mastropasqua graduated from a private high school in Rome before enlisting for military service. After completing his service as an artillery lieutenant, he began leading safaris in East Africa. He climbed Mount Kilimanjaro several times with a variety of groups. While he makes his home in Italy, Leonardo also feels at home in Scandinavia thanks to his Swedish mother, and he leads groups there every summer. Leonardo is eager to share his knowledge and passion for Europe with Road Scholar participants.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.





Recommended For You

loading spinner