7‑Day Independent Program
This tour is ideal for the traveler that likes to stay on the seaside and experience the Italian Riviera by boat or by foot. The Cinque Terre are 5 mountainous fishing villages connected only by walking paths above the sea or its own independent train. Portofino is a picturesque marina with unique structures that have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Itinerary
DAY 1 – USA / MILAN
Departure from USA to Milan by scheduled air service (airfare is not included in quote).
DAY 2 – MILAN / SANTA MARGHERITA LIGURE
Upon arrival at the Milan airport you will be transferred by private car to the central railway station in downtown Milan. Board your train for Santa Margherita Liguria your gateway to the Cinque Terre (5 Towns) National Park. This chic, palm-lined resort town is right on the water and offers a wide variety of good food and nightly entertainment, especially in the summer months. Check into your hotel and the remainder of the day and evening are at your leisure to explore on your own.
DAY 3 – PORTOFINO
Breakfast will be served at your hotel. You are situated perfectly on the Ligurian coast for day trips exploring this unique part of Italy. Spend a day in picturesque Portofino for lunch, shopping and perhaps a hike up the small hill to see the panoramic view from the Church of San Giorgio. Return to Santa Margherita Ligure for an evening at your leisure.
DAY 4 – MONTEROSSO AL MARE
Following breakfast at your hotel, you can begin exploring the Cinque Terre. This national park is a protected area and transportation is deliberately restricted. A three-day pass can be purchased locally for unlimited travel on the local train and shuttles. Another way to see the area is by way of the lovely hiking trails. For today enjoy a full day in Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five towns, and the only one with a long sandy beach, before returning to Santa Margherita Liguria for the evening.
DAY 5 – VERNAZZA/CORNIGLIA
Breakfast will be served at the hotel. Today you might take a local train to discover the beautiful village of Vernazza and the 12th century church that towers over the city’s center. If you have free time this afternoon you can also explore the adjacent village of Corniglia before returning to your hotel.
DAY 6 – MANAROLA/RIOMAGGIORE
Following breakfast you’ll have a day at to explore the last two villages of the area. Begin with “Via dell Amore”, or “street of love,” a short walk along the coast which connects Manarola with Riomaggiore. Be sure to visit the 12th century Church of San Giovanni Battista. Return to Santa Margherita Ligure for the evening.
DAY 7 – GENOA/USA
This morning your private car will take you to the Genoa Airport in time to catch your return flight home.
Pricing
01/01/2025 – 03/31/2025
4 Star First Class Hotels starting at- $989.00
04/01/2025 – 10/31/2025
4 Star First Class Hotels starting at — $2,599.00
Prices are per person based on double occupancy
Inclusions:
- Private car transfer from Milan Airport to Milan train station
- First-class train ticket from Milan to Santa Margherita Ligure
- 5 nights accommodation at the four-star, first class Hotel Continental in Santa Margherita Ligure
- Continental or buffet breakfast daily (hotel’s choice)
- Private car transfer from your hotel to Genoa Airport