Best Time of the Year to Plan Cinque Terre, Umbria, and Sardinia Vacations

Italy is a beautiful country that offers a plethora of experiences for visitors. It is home to scenic beaches and picturesque mountain ranges, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Not to mention, visitors have 20 regions to choose from, each offering a unique experience, cuisine, and scenery. A Cinque Terre vacation, for example, is the ideal getaway for those who love the sun and the sea.

1.    The best time to go on a Cinque Terre vacation

Cinque Terre, which means "five lands" in Italian, is a group of five towns located on the Ligurian Coast in northwest Italy. Its location makes it a prime destination for summer travelers, attracting visitors from the country and all over the world.

It’s really no surprise that most people choose to visit Cinque Terre during the summer. But because of the influx of tourists, summer isn’t considered the “best” time to go to the Ligurian coastline. If you want to avoid packed crowds and the sweltering heat, consider waiting until everyone has returned home. This would be around September and October when the temperatures start to get a little colder and hotels are less expensive.Spring and fall are also great options if you don’t mind the rain.

What if you’re really itching for a summer vacation? Then, consider visiting Sardinia instead. The island offers just the right amount of warmth in May, perfect for spending your days at the beach or cycling around town.

Meanwhile, for travelers looking for something to do during the spring or fall, Umbria is a must-see destination. This Italian region is slightly off the beaten path, making it best for tourists who have already visited Italy’s famous spots but want to experience more of the country.

2.    Planning an unforgettable Cinque Terre vacation

Are you set on visiting Cinque Terre? A wise choice—Cinque Terre is a gorgeous area known for its charming villages and sun-kissed beaches. But before you book tickets to the nearest airport, make sure you think of the following:

·         Essential trip details

There are three things you must always prepare before any trip: your travel dates, your budget, and your accommodation and transportation.

You can plan your trip around your work schedule or a long weekend. However, make sure to think about the previous suggestion—the best time to visit Cinque Terre would be around September to October.

Your budget will depend on several factors, such as the number of travelers in your party, your preferred accommodation, and the travel season. For example, in Cinque Terre, summer is considered the peak season. Thus, don’t be surprised if the flights and hotels are more expensive than usual.

Finally, what type of accommodation do you need, and how many rooms are you planning to book? These days, tourists are no longer limited to hotels. Solo travelers can opt for a hostel to save money, while families and groups can search for a vacation rental home that can fit everyone in one place.

Still, nothing compares to the luxury and convenience of staying in a traditional hotel. If you prefer this type of accommodation, consider booking an all-inclusive package trip that can give you access to four- and five-star hotels for reasonable rates.

·         Destinations and activities

Luckily for you, finding things to do in Cinque Terre is a breeze. As the name suggests, Cinque Terre has five different lands or towns, each offering one-of-a-kind experiences for every type of tourist.

You can start your tour in Monterosso, the first of five villages. It is also Cinque Terre’s largest town and home to the only sandy beach on the coastline. This makes it an ideal destination for summertime visitors, boasting crystal-clear waters and biologically diverse reefs.

Don’t think about hailing a cab to the next town after you’ve had your fill of the sun and sand. There’s one activity every visitor must try at least once: hiking. A trail runs from Monterosso to the neighboring town of Vernazza, taking about two hours to complete. But don’t worry—those two hours will go by quickly as you take in the sight and smell of olive groves along the path.

Once you reach Vernazza, you can take a break and replenish your energy at one of the local restaurants. This tranquil fishing village encourages you to relax and enjoy the Ligurian coastline.

Are you ready for another hike? Thankfully, the trail from Vernazza to Corniglia isn’t as challenging as the previous one, and it will only take you about an hour and a half to reach the next village. Plus, if you need a break, you can always stop by Prevo.This small settlement is located in the heart of Cinque Terre National Park, halfway between the two towns.

Unlike the previous villages, Corniglia doesn’t have direct access to the sea. Rather, it sits on a cliff, taking you 100 meters (328 feet) above sea level. You can choose to end your day here, enjoying a glass of wine as you admire the Italian sunset.

The last two villages of Cinque Terre are Manarola and Riomaggiore, both reachable by foot. Manarola sits a little lower than Corniglia, but it’s still quite high above sea level. On the other hand, Riomaggiore, the southernmost town, is particularly famous for its charming port and an assortment of lively bars.

·         Food and drinks

Of course, you can’t forget about treating yourself to delicious food, especially in a country known for its timeless cuisine. Cinque Terre’s bars and restaurants certainly won’t disappoint, offering a broad selection of Italian classics and coastal specialties.

For instance, seafood lovers can enjoy anchovies served in various ways, including fried, marinated, cured, or mixed with pasta. If fish isn’t your thing, you can satisfy your pasta cravings with a heaping plate of pesto.

Finally, have your fill of Cinque Terre’s lemons. The area is covered in lemon trees, and the locals have found creative ways to make the most of them. Some of the most popular lemon-infused desserts and drinks include limoncello, lemon tarts, and lemon granita.

 

Does a Cinque Terre vacation sound like the perfect opportunity for you to unwind? Don’t forget to book a trip with a certified tour operator for a more convenient, personalized travel experience.