Cinque Terre may be one of Italy’s most stunning destinations, but it doesn’t have to be expensive! With some planning, you can soak in the beauty of this UNESCO-listed coastline while keeping costs low. Here are some of the best ways to experience Cinque Terre on a budget.
1. Go for Takeaway vs. Restaurants for lunch 🍕
Eating out in Cinque Terre can add up quickly, but you don’t have to sacrifice delicious food for a lower price. Many restaurants offer takeaway options that are just as tasty as their sit-down meals but cost significantly less.
Grab a fresh panino, focaccia, or seafood cone from a local takeaway spot and enjoy it with a view of any of the Cinque Terre village harbors. The money you save by doing a picnic lunch you can put towards dinner with a view!
2. Have a Picnic with Local Wine, Cheese, and Salami 🍷🧀
One of the best ways to enjoy Cinque Terre’s stunning landscapes is with a picnic. Head to a local market or grocery store and pick up some local Ligurian wine, fresh cheese, and salami for a simple yet authentic meal.
Find a scenic spot— a park bench with a view, on the public beaches, or my personal favorite: one of the hiking trails—and enjoy a meal with unbeatable scenery for a fraction of the cost of dining out.
3. Use the Free Water Fountains 💧
Buying bottled water every day adds up quickly, but Cinque Terre has free public water fountains in every village where you can refill your reusable bottle. The water is fresh, clean, and perfect for staying hydrated while exploring.
4. Opt for a Daytime Boat Tour (and Bring Your Own Food & Drinks!) 🚤
Boat tours are a must-do in Cinque Terre, but sunset cruises tend to be pricier. Instead, consider a daytime boat tour, which costs a little less but still offers breathtaking coastline views.
💡 Pro tip: Choose a tour that allows you to bring your own food and drinks, so you won’t have to spend extra on snacks and beverages onboard. Our group two-and-a-half-hour tour from Riomaggiore to Monterosso and back is available daily and costs 80 Euros per person. Mention the discount code BLOG and get an additional 10 Euros off per person, which is my gift for visiting our site.
5. Visit the Free Beaches—Like Monterosso’s Gigante Beach 🏖️
While some beaches in Cinque Terre charge for entry or chair rentals, there are several free beaches where you can swim and sunbathe without spending a dime.
My personal favorite is Gigante Beach, located at the very end of Monterosso in the direction of Levanto. This beach has soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and no entrance fee—just bring a towel and enjoy!
Riomaggiore has a free beach with no sand, just large pebbles, and rocks, but it’s known as the cleanest beach to swim at.
Insider Tip: Follow the trail to Levanto via Monterosso. Once in Levanto, go through the tunnel to Bonasola. Along the way, you can enjoy secret little beaches for free!
6. Rent a Kayak in Riomaggiore on a Calm Day 🛶
Instead of booking an expensive boat excursion, rent a kayak in Riomaggiore for a budget-friendly way to explore the coastline. Kayaking lets you get close to Cinque Terre’s dramatic cliffs and hidden coves while spending less than a private boat trip. Check out Cinque Terre Adventures in Riomaggiore to rent from local and knowledgeable staff.
💡 Best tip: Only go on a calm day. The Ligurian Sea can be unpredictable, but it’s much safer and more enjoyable when the water is smooth.
7. Hike the Free Trails ⛰️
Many of Cinque Terre’s most famous hiking trails require a paid pass, but several incredible trails are completely free!
Here are some top free hikes to check out:
✅ Riomaggiore to Santuario di Montenero – A peaceful, uphill hike leading to a stunning panoramic view.
✅ Monterosso to Levanto– A longer hike through the rugged coastline with breathtaking views.
✅ Manarola to Corniglia via Volastra – One of the most scenic hikes in the region, winding through vineyards and offering unbeatable views of the sea.
8. Drink Local House Wine Instead of Buying Bottles 🍷
If you’re dining out, one of the best ways to save money is ordering the house wine instead of purchasing bottled wines from wine lists. In Italy, house wine is often delicious, locally sourced, and much more affordable than bottled wines.
Many restaurants serve ½ liter (mezzo litro) or full liter (litro) options, perfect for sharing without overspending.
9. Avoid Taxis—Take the Train Instead 🚆
Taxis in Cinque Terre are costly, and since the villages are well connected by train, it’s best to avoid them entirely.
Get a Cinque Terre Train & Hiking Pass for the day, which gives you unlimited train rides between the villages and access to paid hiking trails for a single price. It’s much cheaper than paying for individual train tickets throughout the day.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Cinque Terre Without Overspending
You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy Cinque Terre! By making smart choices—like opting for takeaway meals, enjoying picnics, using the train, and exploring the many free activities—you can experience the magic of this coastal paradise while staying on a budget.
With these tips in mind, you’re all set for an unforgettable, affordable trip to one of Italy’s most stunning destinations! 🌅🇮🇹✨
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