Sentiero Azzurro (Cinque Terre)
The famous blue trail linking the five colourful cliffside villages of the Cinque Terre along Italy's Ligurian coast.
Route overview
The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path) is the best-known walking route of the Cinque Terre National Park, connecting the five villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore along the steep Ligurian coastline. It is part of a much larger network of paths maintained by the national park across the surrounding terraced hillsides. Sections of the trail run directly along cliff edges above the Mediterranean, while others climb through terraced vineyards characteristic of the region. Some segments, notably the Via dell'Amore between Riomaggiore and Manarola, require a paid park entry ticket and are occasionally closed for maintenance due to landslide risk. Most visitors walk the trail over one to two days, often combining walking with the regional train that connects all five villages for flexible itineraries.
Trail facts
- Country
- Italy
- Region
- Liguria
- Distance
- c. 12 km
- Typical duration
- 1–2 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- c. 800 m cumulative
- Best season
- April–June, September–October
- Trail type
- Point-to-point coastal path
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- Cinque Terre park card required for certain trail sections.
Safety context
Some cliff sections are narrow and exposed; parts of the trail are occasionally closed after landslides and should be checked with the park authority before setting out.
Trail closures due to landslide risk are common and should be checked on the official park website before the visit, as sections can be shut for extended periods.
Highlights
Via dell'Amore cliffside walkway Terraced vineyards above the Mediterranean Five colourful cliffside villages Monterosso beach and Riomaggiore harbour
Why find a buddy
Coastal cliff walking between busy villages is a popular route to share, and companions make photo stops and pacing more enjoyable on a short, scenic trail.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.