Discover the stunning Cinque Terre region on a small-group tour from Florence. Led by an English-speaking professional, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed coastline, hiking through scenic vineyards and taking in picturesque seaside villages like Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare. Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Riviera, weather permitting, and indulge in a delectable 3-course seafood lunch featuring fresh local ingredients and regional wines. This immersive experience provides a chance to truly savor the natural beauty and culinary delights that make Cinque Terre a must-visit destination. There’s plenty more to uncover, so dive right in and get ready for an unforgettable day.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Lunch Experiences In Florence.
Key Points
- Full-day tour from Florence to the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre region, showcasing its picturesque coastline and charming villages.
- Guided walking tour and light hiking through scenic seaside vineyards and olive groves.
- Scenic boat ride along the Riviera, weather and sea conditions permitting.
- 3-course seafood lunch featuring fresh local ingredients and regional wines.
- Exploration of the unique cultural heritage and natural beauty of the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre.
Tour Overview
This full-day trip from Florence takes visitors to the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre region, showcasing its picturesque coastline and five charming villages.
Travelers will embark on a guided tour led by an English-speaking professional, exploring the area through light hiking in seaside vineyards. The tour includes a scenic boat ride along the Riviera, weather and sea conditions permitting, as well as a 3-course seafood lunch and wine tasting.
Tickets for the Cinque Terre National Park are provided, and transportation is by air-conditioned minivan. In case of unfavorable boat conditions, a train ticket is included.
With stunning scenery and local cuisine, this small-group tour offers an immersive Cinque Terre experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Florence.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with pickup from the meeting point in central Florence and transportation by air-conditioned minivan to the Cinque Terre region.
Travelers embark on a guided walking tour of the UNESCO-listed coastline, exploring the charming seaside villages on foot. Depending on weather and sea conditions, the tour may include a scenic boat ride along the Riviera, offering unique perspectives of the dramatic cliffs and pastel-colored houses.
Along the way, guests enjoy a light hike through seaside vineyards and sample local wines. The highlight of the day is a 3-course seafood lunch, showcasing the region’s fresh and flavorful cuisine.
Throughout the tour, travelers are accompanied by an English-speaking professional guide who provides insights into the history and culture of the Cinque Terre.
Cinque Terre Exploration
In a small group, travelers embark on a guided walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre coastline, exploring the charming seaside villages on foot.
Hiking through scenic seaside vineyards and olive groves, taking in the region’s famous terraced landscapes.
Visiting picturesque towns like Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare, wandering their colorful streets and sampling local delicacies.
Enjoying a boat ride along the dramatic Riviera, weather and sea conditions permitting, for a unique perspective of the rugged coastline.
Indulging in a delicious 3-course seafood lunch paired with regional wines, seeing the local culinary traditions.
This immersive Cinque Terre exploration offers travelers an authentic taste of this enchanting corner of Italy.
Boat Ride and Hiking
After meeting at the designated location, travelers embark on a scenic boat ride along the Riviera, weather and sea conditions permitting, offering a unique perspective of the rugged Cinque Terre coastline.
This relaxing cruise provides a chance to admire the colorful, centuries-old villages perched atop the cliffs.
Once on land, the group sets out on a light hike through the area’s renowned seaside vineyards. Traversing this picturesque terrain, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the glistening Mediterranean and the charming towns below.
This combination of boat ride and hiking allows travelers to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this UNESCO-listed region.
Seafood Lunch and Wine Tasting
Following the boat ride and hiking, travelers sit down to savor a delectable 3-course seafood lunch, accompanied by a tasting of local wines. This culinary experience allows them to further enjoy the flavors and traditions of the Cinque Terre region.
The lunch typically features:
- A starter of fresh seafood salad or local appetizers
- A main course of grilled or baked fish, often served with seasonal vegetables
- A dessert showcasing regional specialties, such as a limoncino (lemon liqueur) sorbet
Complementary local white and red wines are provided to pair with the dishes.
This indulgent meal and wine tasting provide a perfect conclusion to the day’s exploration of the stunning Cinque Terre coastline.
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Meeting Point and End Point
The tour begins at Florencetown in Piazza Mentana 2/r, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy, with the same location serving as the end point for the day’s activities.
This centrally-located meeting spot makes it easy for travelers to find and return to at the tour’s conclusion. The meeting point is just a short walk from major landmarks and attractions in Florence, allowing participants to arrive with plenty of time before the tour departs.
At the end of the day, guests can seamlessly make their way back to their starting location, avoiding the hassle of navigating an unfamiliar area. The convenient meeting and end point ensures a smooth and stress-free experience throughout the Cinque Terre discovery.
Inclusions and Exclusions
In this full-day Cinque Terre tour from Florence, visitors can expect a guided tour, light hiking, a boat or train ride, a 3-course seafood lunch with wine tasting, and all necessary tickets and gratuities.
The tour includes:
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Guided tour by an English-speaking professional
- Boat ride along the Riviera (weather permitting)
- 3-course seafood lunch with wine tasting
However, it doesn’t include alcoholic beverages for minors under 18.
Additional Information
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking for this Cinque Terre tour. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility needs should advise at the time of booking.
Dietary requirements must also be communicated when booking. Portions of the Via Dell’Amore hiking path remain temporarily closed.
Boat tours are subject to weather and sea conditions, and the itinerary may vary accordingly. Infant car seats are available, making the tour suitable for most travelers.
However, alcoholic beverages aren’t served to minors under 18 years of age. This Small-Group Cinque Terre Discovery With Seafood Lunch provides a comprehensive and enjoyable experience, with flexibility to accommodate various traveler needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Transportation Is Provided for the Tour?
The tour includes transport by air-conditioned minivan. Travelers are picked up and dropped off at the meeting point in Florence.
Is Photography Allowed During the Hiking Portion of the Tour?
Yes, photography is typically allowed during the hiking portions of the tour. Travelers are encouraged to capture the scenic landscapes and picturesque villages along the way, as long as they stay on the designated trails.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food or drinks on the tour. The tour includes a seafood lunch and wine tasting, so bringing outside items is discouraged. Any dietary requirements should be communicated to the tour operator in advance.
Is There an Option to Skip the Hike and Just Do the Boat Ride?
Yes, there’s an option to skip the hike and just do the boat ride. If sea conditions don’t allow the boat tour, travelers will take the train instead to explore the villages.
How Much Free Time Is Allocated During the Cinque Terre Visit?
The tour provides limited free time during the Cinque Terre visit, as the itinerary includes a guided tour, light hiking, boat ride, and seafood lunch. The schedule is designed to maximize the sightseeing experience within the allotted day trip.
Recap
This Cinque Terre discovery tour offers a comprehensive way to explore the picturesque coastal villages.
Highlights include guided walks, a scenic boat ride, and a delectable seafood lunch with regional wines.
It’s an ideal option for travelers seeking an immersive experience in this UNESCO-listed Italian gem.
With an English-speaking guide and transportation included, it’s a hassle-free way to make the most of the Cinque Terre’s natural beauty and local flavors.
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