FIVE GOOD REASONS TO CHOOSE CINQUE TERRE FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT
Over the years, we’ve captured engagement photos for couples from all over the world here in Cinque Terre. As local Cinque Terre photographers, we wanted to create this guide to share useful tips with anyone dreaming of celebrating their engagement in this stunning part of Italy.
Here are five great reasons to have your engagement shoot in Cinque Terre:
1 | BREATHTAKING LANDSCAPES AND EXCLUSIVE ACCESS
What makes Cinque Terre so unique is its five colorful villages perched on cliffs overlooking the sea.
If you love the sea and nature, you’ll feel right at home! Here are our top spots to enjoy sunsets:
Vernazza : take in the views from the lookout point at the start of the trail to Corniglia, just before reaching the restaurant La Torre.
Manarola : from the promontory near Nessun Dorma, you’ll find an amazing spot overlooking both the sea and village. Or, if you prefer staying closer to the sea, follow the trail along the cliffside to find a perfect sunset spot.
Riomaggiore : the breakwater and rocks near the harbor are popular sunset spots, drawing crowds for a reason. Enjoy views of the sun setting over the horizon and the colorful fishermen’s houses lit up in orange hues. For a more private spot, walk the coastal path toward the station, bring along a pizza, and share this magical moment with your partner.
Cinque Terre is car-free, so forget about city stress. With no need to hunt for parking, you’ll enjoy fresh air and get around by walking or hopping on the quick, convenient trains that link all five villages in minutes.
2 | DIVERSE SCENERY
Each village has its own unique charm. If you love the beach, Monterosso is perfect, offering both private beach clubs and free beach areas. Its crystal-clear waters shift from deep blue to vibrant turquoise. While in Monterosso, check out the famous rock sculpture, “Il Gigante.”
Just a three-minute train ride away, Vernazza stands out for its variety of landscapes. It has a tiny beach inside the harbor, surrounded by colorful boats and houses. You can also get breathtaking views from the start of the trails to both Monterosso and Corniglia.
To reach Corniglia, you’ll climb 377 steps, but it’s worth it for a 180-degree view of the coast.
For easy access to scenic views, Manarola is your spot. Stroll along the promontory trail for those iconic shots of the colorful houses against the sea. And if you’re visiting during the holiday season, don’t miss the famous Nativity scene lit up on the hillside from December 8 onward.
The first stop on the train from La Spezia is Riomaggiore, another village built right by the sea. Some of its charming houses are just meters from the water, and if you stay in one of them, you’ll wake up to beautiful views. The famous Via dell’Amore (Lovers’ Lane) connects Riomaggiore to Manarola, making it a perfect spot for a romantic moment.
Each village has something different to offer, so you can find the ideal setting that matches your style and preferences. For couples looking for a quieter place close to Cinque Terre, we highly recommend Moneglia. It’s less crowded and offers a similar vibe, with easy train access to Cinque Terre.
3 | AMAZING FOOD
Every Italian region has its own specialties, and Liguria is no exception. If you didn’t know, pesto originated here! Traditionally paired with gnocchi, trofie, or testaroli, it’s just the start of Liguria’s delicious offerings.
Don’t miss farinata, a savory chickpea flour pancake, or focaccia, perfect with a morning cappuccino. Try pansoti with walnut sauce, ravioli with borage, and panissa, fried chickpea fritters. For seafood lovers, the anchovies here are a must, served fried, stuffed, or salted. And, of course, pair everything with a glass of Cinque Terre’s local white wine. Sciacchetrà, a unique dessert wine, is ideal with sweets, aged cheese, or fresh fruit.
Where to eat? Here are some recommendations for each village:
Monterosso : Buranco Agriturismo | Gastronomia San Martino | L’ancora della tortuga
Vernazza : Belforte | La torre | Il pirata delle Cinque Terre
Corniglia : Terra Rossa | La Posada | Osteria A cantina de Mananan
Manarola : Trattoria dal Billy | Nessun Dorma | Cappung Magro
Riomaggiore : La Torpedine | Rio Bistrot | Il pescato cucinato
4 | UNIQUE ACTIVITIES
What better way to celebrate your engagement than by sharing unforgettable experiences in this beautiful place? Here are some of the top activities in Cinque Terre:
Nessun Dorma – Pesto Experience in Manarola : combine delicious food, music, and fun at Nessun Dorma, a restaurant with a view over Manarola. During the pesto experience, you’ll not only learn the secrets of making pesto but also get to dance, laugh, and share a memorable time together.
Boat Tour : see Cinque Terre from the sea for a more intimate celebration. Forget the crowds; it’ll be just you, your partner, and the open water. Swim in the deep blue, enjoy a sunset aperitivo, and if you’re lucky, spot some dolphins! Check out HelloCinqueTerre’s Instagram page.
Kayak : paddle along the coastline, reaching spots inaccessible by larger boats. You can even book group experiences through this link.
Wine Tasting : toast to your engagement! In Manarola, book a vineyard tour with Cantina Marinella. Monterosso also offers a fantastic experience at Buranco.
Hiking : known for its cliffside trails with amazing views, hiking is a must here. In summer, start early to beat the heat. Check the official Cinque Terre website to find the route that suits you best!
Snorkeling : explore the rich underwater world of the Cinque Terre Marine Park. Just keep an eye out for jellyfish!
5 | RELAXATION
After traveling all this way, remember to relax and take it all in. Cinque Terre is perfect for recharging before your next adventure.
We tried to keep this guide as brief and useful as possible. If you’ve already been to Cinque Terre or are planning a visit, we’d love for you to share your experience with us!
Is Cinque Terre the perfect place to take your engagement photos?
Booking and information : lovviamemories@gmail.com
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