Vernazza
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Vernazza is perhaps the most beautiful of all the Cinque Terre’s villages, even considering that in 2011 it has suffered the most from flood. The most beautiful pictures of the village can be taken from the glade on Path #2: Vernazza - Monterosso. A very picturesque landscape. Pixar Animation Studios was inspired by its beauty and created a film "Luca" in 2021.
In Vernazza there are two beaches, about which you can read in the section All about beaches (number 6).
Where to eat: in the village, there are a large number of restaurants, bars and other facilities on the square near the sea fitting everyone’s taste.
The best hotels (special offer: only September, 21-22)
Walking trails: see below for more details.
Photos of Vernazza.
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What to see in Vernazza (tagged on the map):
 1. Church of St. Margaret of Antioch
The church was built in the XI-XII centuries; the exact date is unknown. Architectural style: Roman (in 1750 it was changed to baroque, and in 1970, after one major renovation, the original style was restored).
Photos inside: Photo 1, Photo 2.
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 2. Church of San Francesco
Built in the XVII century, it includes a quadrangular tower of the XVI century and remains one of the most ancient walls.
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 3. Palace with porticoes
Opposite the Church of St. Margaret, there is an old building with narrow galleries. It is a traditional meeting place for the residents of Cinque Terre.
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 4. Belforte Tower and A. Doria Castle
This castle was built in the XI century for protection of the village and surveillance of the entire coast. You get a beautiful bird-eye’s view of the village and the coast that everyone can enjoy, as the terrace of castle and the tower are open to public. Entry fee: 1.50 EUR.
Its main Belforte Tower is the symbol of Vernazza, it can be easily seen on almost all the photos of the village.
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 5. Reggio Santuary and the Black Madonna
This temple was built in the XI century on the ruins of an ancient religious structure (proved by a preserved vault).
Within the temple walls, a revered image of the Black Madonna’s holy face is kept. Evergreen oaks and cypresses provide shade over the square decorated with fountains giving a magnificent view on Vernazza.
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 6. San Bernardino and Our Lady of the Graces (the Corniglia Sanctuary)
A very small hamlet not far from Vernazza, gives a very beautiful panoramic view on Vernazza, Corniglia and Guvano beach. Also, it has a sanctuary belonging to Corniglia.
You can reach this hamlet by taking a bus at Vernazza or walk along one of the walking trails.
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Walking trails near Vernazza:
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The Blue Path, 2c
Journey time: 70-100 minutes.
Difficulty: low.
Path length: 3.2 km / 2 miles.
Description: the path is laid through forest. You get a beautiful view over the Cinque Terre Riviera and Corniglia. This path leads to the famous beach of Guvano, and the path #7 starts from here as well.
The route consists of paths: #2c.
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The Blue Path, 2d
Journey time: 80-120 minutes.
Difficulty: low.
Path length: 3.3 km / 2 miles.
Description: of the whole Blue Path, this section is the most difficult, but even children can pass through it easily. Almost in the very beginning you come across a beautiful glade, where all tourists stop to take pictures on Vernazza background; it is a very comfortable and beautiful place.
The route consists of paths: #2d.
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Route to Reggio or San Bernardino
Difficulty: low.
Description: apart from other interesting paths, we can offer you 2 options: path #8, leading to the Sanctuary of Reggio, and then to path #1 towards Levanto; and path #7, connecting Vernazza with San Bernardino, where Our Lady of the Graces temple is located, and then it continues till path #1 towards Portovenere.
The route consists of paths: #7 or #8.
Hotel booking at best prices:
The sites we have chosen provide best offers for hotel booking in the Cinque Terre National Park. Promotional offers are updated on a regular basis. You will not find cheaper prices anywhere.
Important: 7 days before your arrival you can cancel your booking without any penalty. So book a hotel in advance, it will save you money if your plans do not change.
Photos of Vernazza:
The Blue Path:
