Vernazza

Just north of Montrerosso al Mare is the idyllic fishing town of Vernazza. This quiet respite tucked into the Italian hillside has absolutely no cars and is best known for its maritime roots, as well as for producing the indigenous wine. It is the only official harbor in all of Cinque Terre.
The town’s main square is home to the well-known Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, which was built in the early 1300s. Nearby Doria Castle, which was erected to protect the village from pirates, proves another popular architectural stop on a tour of this quiet, picturesque fishing town. 
Visitors looking for a steep (but scenic!) trek can follow a path dotted with Stations of the Cross that leads to the Sanctuary of Madonna di Reggio and epic views of the surrounding countryside. Vernazza’s beach, near Piazza Marconi, offers travelers the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day spent wandering this quiet community. 

Practical Info

Seasoned travelers say the milk trains (aptly named, as they used to deliver milk) that depart from Genova and La Spezia are a true experience, thanks to beautiful scenery that includes sheer cliffs, crystal clear waters and olive orchards, too. The train station in Vernazza is a short walk from the harbor and visitors say the town is easy to navigate on foot.