⚓ VERNAZZA

A little gem overlooking the Ligurian Sea

Vernazza is one of the most charming villages of the Cinque Terre, nestled around a small natural harbour and surrounded by the terraced hills typical of the Ligurian coast.

The village has preserved its distinctive character, with colourful houses, narrow alleyways and steep staircases leading down towards the sea. The area is part of the Cinque Terre National Park and the UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes Portovenere, the Cinque Terre and the islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto.

📍 What to see in Vernazza

🌊 The harbour and Piazza Marconi

The heart of Vernazza is its picturesque natural harbour, surrounded by the colourful houses of the village.

Here you will find Piazza Marconi, one of the most photographed spots in the Cinque Terre: the perfect place to stop for a while, watch the boats and enjoy the atmosphere of the village with the sea just a few steps away.

From here, small alleyways and staircases lead through the historic centre.

⛪ Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia

Standing directly by the sea is the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, dedicated to the patron saint of Vernazza.

Construction began in 1318, and the church features three naves and a distinctive octagonal bell tower topped by a pointed dome.

Its exceptional location, practically at the water’s edge, creates one of the most iconic views of the village.

🏰 Doria Castle

In the upper part of the village stands Doria Castle, an ancient fortification built in a strategic position to protect Vernazza and its harbour.

The earliest records of the castle date back to the 13th century, although its original structure may be even older. Its distinctive cylindrical tower is the oldest part of the fortification.

🛡️ Belforte Bastion

Just below Doria Castle stands the Belforte Bastion, a medieval defensive structure with a quadrangular shape located near the entrance to the harbour.

It was part of the system of fortifications built during Genoese rule to protect the village and its important harbour.

🌿 Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Reggio

For those who would like to escape the busier streets for a while, above Vernazza you will find the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Reggio, located approximately 325 metres above sea level.

The sanctuary can be reached along a paved path of about 2 kilometres, which climbs from the village to a peaceful square surrounded by centuries-old trees.

🍇 Vineyards and dry-stone walls

Like the other villages of the Cinque Terre, Vernazza is surrounded by characteristic terraced vineyards, supported by ancient dry-stone walls.

They are the result of centuries of work, during which local people shaped the steep hillsides to make cultivation possible, creating one of the most distinctive landscapes of Liguria.

🥾 Scenic hiking trails

Vernazza is also an ideal destination for those who enjoy walking and hiking.

The trails crossing the Cinque Terre connect the neighbouring villages through vineyards, Mediterranean vegetation and spectacular viewpoints overlooking the sea.

One of the best-known routes connects Vernazza with Monterosso, while in the opposite direction you can continue towards Corniglia.

🎬 A little curiosity

Vernazza’s charm has also captured the imagination of the world of animation.

The village was one of the sources of inspiration for the setting of the Disney-Pixar film Luca, directed by Enrico Casarosa. In particular, the main square of the fictional town of Portorosso was inspired by Vernazza’s own piazza. 🎬

🚆 How to reach Vernazza from La Spezia

The easiest and most convenient way to reach Vernazza is by train.

From La Spezia Centrale railway station, you can take the Cinque Terre railway line and get off directly at Vernazza station, located just a few steps from the centre of the village.

During the tourist season, Vernazza can also be reached by sea, thanks to boat services operating along the coast.

Travelling by car is less convenient when visiting the village. The best way to discover Vernazza is to arrive by train and then explore its characteristic alleyways on foot.

💙 Why visit Vernazza

Vernazza brings together everything that makes the Cinque Terre so special: colourful houses, a small harbour, ancient fortifications, narrow alleyways, vineyards and the sea.

Walk down to the main square, stroll along the harbour and then climb towards the panoramic viewpoints. Looking down at the colourful houses gathered around the small bay is one of the most beautiful sights on the Ligurian coast.

If you can, stay until sunset, when the warm light falls across the colourful façades and the sea slowly changes colour.

⚓ A small seaside village full of history and atmosphere, and an absolute must-see during your stay at Stella Marina.