FAQ

How can I reach Manarola?
Manarola can be reached either by train or by car. The small train station, where mostly local and regional trains stop, is located in the downtown, while the car parking is on the upper side of Manarola, just outside the built-up area.

Car or train?
It's up to you and your needs but we suggest the train. Once you are in Manarola you'll never ever use the car, except maybe for mid distance destinations like Genova, Pisa, Lucca which can be reached by train as well! Once here, you'll get around the area by train, by boat, on foot... absolutly not by car!! Remember that trains run fairly regularly, especially during the high season, from early in the morning till midnight. Furthermore, to park during high season or holidays can be a serious trouble.
What's about taxis?
Don't think to arrive in Manarola and find taxis in front of the station or around the corner! Not at all!! Manarola is just a peaceful slice of heaven, mostly traffic free, made up of sloping walking paths and steps... No taxis, no cabs, no cars are allowed in the town, except only for delivery! The only permitted transportation is the green bus running along the main road.
What's about luggage?
When you get ready to pack your bags, please keep in mind the place you are going to visit! It can happen that Manarola with the Cinque Terre area is only one leg of your trip.... It can happen that at home you think everything in your wardrobe could be necessary.... But please don't forget that Manarola is a simple, unformal village. Bring comfortable and practical clothes and something romantic as well! There is no luggage service, no taxis, just walking paths and some steps.... and you must carry your case.... Think it over when you pack!
Is there a bank in Manarola?
No, there isn't. But don't worry!! The nearest bank is in Riomaggiore, just 15 minute walk from Manarola or 2 minutes by train. The other ones are in Vernazza and in Monterosso or in La Spezia.
Is there an ATM machine in Manarola?
Yes, there is. It is very easy to find, just in the heart of the town before the tunnel to the train station
Is there a beach?
There is no sandy beach in Manarola, just lovely rocky cliffs and a couple of rocky inlets where you can enjoy a wonderful clean blue water! Between Manarola and Corniglia you can find a romantic place called "I laghi" (the lakes) and if you walk a bit ahead along the Blue Path, you'll get the stone beach of Corniglia. The nearest sandy beach is in Monterosso.
Are there shops, restaurants, bars, groceries...?
Of course! Manarola is a seaside resort and it offers a good choice of 5 excellent restaurants, 4 bars, a lovely cantina, 2 groceries, a chemist's, some local shops to buy typical products, souvenirs, newspapers and postcards, the postoffice.
What's the weather like?
Liguria is blessed with a mild climate any time of the year. Winter temperatures are generally mild, hovering around the 10 °C; summers are generally warm without being too hot, with average temperatures peaking at 30 °C. The best time to visit the Cinque Terre? Always!! Every season offers you something special!!