Private Custom Italy Tours in Liguria and Cinque Terre

Liguria is a narrow crescent-shaped region wrapping itself around the Ligurian Sea in northwest Italy. Its coastline, extending from the French border to the Tuscan coast, is known as the Italian Riviera. The five picturesque fishing villages of the Cinque Terre are a favorite tourist mecca, as well as stylish Portofino, the capital city of Genoa, and seacoast towns such as Sestri Levante and Porto Venere. Here you will find lovely fresh seafood, fococcia bread, and the best pesto in Italy.

Unfortunately, the fragile Cinque Terre area is suffering from overtourism. The trail system is very vulnerable to erosion, and cannot support the current level of visitors that descend on this area between June through September. The lower trails are overcrowded, upper trails are very steep, so expect difficult ascents and descents. Trail closures are common, with any rain shutting down the trails, so local knowledge, flexibility and planning your day to avoid busy periods is key. Kathy and Vernon plan your tour to avoid the crowds and with many options to work around any trail closures. This is an area where having flexibility to deviate from the original script is important.

Best activities: Walking.

Best time of year: April though October, but we only recommend April, May and October

Visiting off-season: Walking tours are possible in the off-season, but many restaurants and hotels close during these periods.

Sample itineraries:

We customize each itinerary for each and every group - with whatever activities you prefer - but these examples will hopefully inspire your own adventure!

Liguria and Cinque Terre Walking Tour

Longer options: Combine with a few days in Piedmont, or head east and finish with a few days in Tuscany.

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