Manarola, built on a high rock 70 metres above sea level, is one of the most charming and romantic of the Cinque Terre villages.The tiny harbor features a boat ramp, picturesque multicoloured houses facing the sea, a tiny piazza with seafood restaurants.
Along the main road the boats are pulled onto dry land every time the sea is rough. Although there is no real beach here, it has some of the best deep-water swimming around.
The village is all ups and downs, with steep narrow alleys carrugi, leading to the sea. If you want to venture up to the top of Manarola, make sure you check out the church. Today it serves as a religious and community meeting place, but in more ancient times, the bell tower was used as a post to watch for potential pirate raids.
Where to stay in Manarola
There are some really nice high quality guesthouses and apartments in Manarola, providing a relaxing atmosphere and spectacular ocean views. We've listed the best alternatives for you: Guesthouses and apartments in Manarola.
searching for a hotel in the Cinque Terre area: Hotels in Cinque Terre.
What to see in Manarola
• Manarola is connected to Riomaggiore by the famous Via dell’Amore (Lovers’ Lane); a footpath carved into the rocks above the sea.
• The Church of San Lorenzo built in 1338 in Gothic Ligurian style and the defence tower.
Events
August 10, the San Lorenzo Feast
From December 8th till the end January the hills are illuminated with more than 200 figures and 12.000 lamps for the biggest lighted nativity in the world.
