TravelNana saw things this way:
Overall
4
Charming villages set on hilltops overlooking the Mediterranean., September 14, 2010
Reviewer: TravelNana
Pros: The uniqueness of the villages, walking from one to the other
Cons: Very crowded with tourists and school children, made walking difficult.
Our cruise ship docked in Livorno. Having previously visited Florence, we opted for an all-day tour to the Cinque Terre, offered by the cruise line. An expensive tour, approximately $189 per person, but was worth it. These popular hilltop medieval villages are chockful of colorful houses. They are perched on cliffs high above the Mediterranean, originally built as defense against marauders. The steep cliffs above the villages, almost vertical, are terraced with vineyards. Walk from one village to another; take a boat to others. A beautiful day, interesting villages, gorgeous photo ops. Be prepared to do a lot of walking, some strenuous, lots of antiquated, irregular steps. Visited four of the five villages. Lunch was on our own, in Vernazza, outdoors, near beach and Mediterranean. A train takes you back to the bus in La Spezia, and on to Livorno. CT is about 1 to 1-1/2 hours from Livorno by tour bus. It would be difficult to visit this area on one's own from this cruise port. Might be easier if your ship is docked in La Spezia or if on a land tour. Some travelers hike this region.
