Corniglia: The Complete Guide

Corniglia Cinque Terre
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Cs.adri

Corniglia, known as Corniggia in Ligurian and locally referred to as Curnigia (citation needed), is a hamlet within the comune of Vernazza in the province of La Spezia, Liguria, northern Italy. It has a population of approximately 150 people as of 2016. Unlike the other localities of the Cinque Terre, Corniglia is not situated directly by the sea. Instead, it is perched atop a promontory that stands about 100 meters high. The village is surrounded on three sides by vineyards and terraces, while the fourth side descends steeply towards the sea. To reach Corniglia, visitors must ascend the Lardarina, a lengthy flight of 33 brick steps comprising a total of 383 steps. Alternatively, a vehicular road from the station leads to the village, and occasionally a small bus operates.

The village extends along the main road, Fieschi Road, and the houses are positioned with one side facing this road and the other side facing the sea. Corniglia is characterized by its narrow roads and a rocky terrace that offers panoramic views of the other four villages of the Cinque Terre, with two villages visible on each side. The town’s urban structure displays distinctive features compared to the other villages, with lower-set houses that have been constructed higher in more recent times, resembling the villages of the hinterland.

Corniglia is mentioned in Giovanni Boccaccio’s famous novella, Decameron, and in Jennifer Egan’s novel, The Invisible Circus.

History of Corniglia

The town’s origin can be traced back to the Roman Age, evident in its name derived from Gens Cornelia, the Roman family that owned the land. During the Middle Ages, it came under the possession of the counts of Lavagna, the lords of Carpena, and of Luni. In 1254, Pope Innocent IV granted it to Nicolò Fieschi, who retained control until 1276 when the Republic of Genoa acquired the village.

Visiting Corniglia for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Corniglia on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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7 Best places to See in Corniglia

This complete guide to Corniglia not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Corniglia and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Church of San Pietro

Corniglia Chiesa Di San Pietro
CC BY-SA 3.0 / sailko
Situated in the elevated section of Corniglia, the parish church of San Pietro holds its presence. Fronted by a churchyard adorned with vestiges of polychrome cobblestones, its establishment was commissioned by the Fieschi family. A plaque on the facade, inscribed with the year 1334, marks the initiation of the edifice's construction. This endeavor encompassed the assimilation of a pre-existing small…
Location: Chiesa Di San Pietro, Via Fieschi, Corniglia, SP, Italy | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Church of San Pietro

We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Oratory of the Disciplinati di Santa Caterina

Corniglia Oratorio Dei Disciplinati
CC BY-SA 3.0 / sailko
In the heart of the village, within the expanse of Largo Taragio square, resides the oratory of the Disciplinati di Santa Caterina. Originating in the eighteenth century, this petite edifice showcases a façade with a weathered gable. Here, a modest portal is crowned by a niche housing a statue of the saint and accompanied by a circular window. Within its…
Location: Oratorio dei Disciplinati di Santa Caterina, Via Stazione, Corniglia, SP, Italy | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Oratory of the Disciplinati di Santa Caterina

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Corniglia . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Manarola

Manarola
CC BY-SA 2.0 / chensiyuan
Manarola, known as Manaea in the local dialect, is a small town located in the province of La Spezia, Liguria, northern Italy. It is a frazione of the municipality of Riomaggiore and is renowned as one of the famous Cinque Terre towns frequented by tourists. Despite being the second-smallest town in the area, it has a population of 353. The…
Visiting Manarola

Explore Corniglia yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

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Santuario di Nostra Signora delle Grazie, Cinque Terre

Santuario Di Nostra Signora Delle Grazie Cinque Terre
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Davide Papalini
The sanctuary of Nostra Signora delle Grazie or San Bernardino is a Catholic place of worship situated in the locality of San Bernardino within the municipality of Vernazza, in the province of La Spezia. The sanctuary is part of the "Sanctuaries of the Cinque Terre," along with the sanctuary of Our Lady of Montenero in Riomaggiore, the sanctuary of Our…
Visiting Santuario di Nostra Signora delle Grazie, Cinque Terre

Click here to read our blog about Cinque Terre in One Day (With Maps!)

Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore Cinque Terre
CC BY-SA 2.0 / chensiyuan
The Via dell'Amore is a pathway that links Riomaggiore to its frazione, Manarola, which is also a part of the Cinque Terre. Riomaggiore, situated in a small valley within the Liguria region of Italy, serves as the southernmost village among the five Cinque Terre when traveling north from La Spezia. Dating back to the early thirteenth century, this village is…
Visiting Riomaggiore

Explore Corniglia yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

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Vernazza

Vernazza Cinque Terre
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Med Cruise Guide
Vernazza, known as Vernassa in Ligurian and Vernasa in the local dialect, and derived from the Latin name Vulnetia, is a town and comune situated in the province of La Spezia, in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy. It is one of the five towns that collectively form the renowned Cinque Terre region. As the fourth town when traveling north,…
Visiting Vernazza
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Monterosso al Mare

Monterosso Al Mare Cinque Terre
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Ilya Orehov
Monterosso al Mare, referred to as Munterussu in Ligurian, is a town and comune situated in the province of La Spezia, within the Liguria region of Northern Italy. It is one of the five villages comprising the Cinque Terre. Located at the centre of a small natural gulf, protected by a small artificial reef to the east of Punta Mesco…
Visiting Monterosso al Mare
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Best Day Trips from Corniglia

A day trip from Corniglia offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Corniglia provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

La Spezia

La Spezia
La Spezia, positioned in the far-eastern reaches of Liguria, stands as the region's largest and most densely populated city. However, its allure lies not only in its intrinsic attractions but also in its proximity to the splendid villages adorning the enchanting Gulf of Poets. Often, La Spezia merely brushes against the bustling tide of tourists drawn by the illustrious charms…
Visiting La Spezia
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Portovenere

Portovenere
Porto Venere, a hidden gem in the heart of Liguria, Italy, sits just a stone's throw away from the renowned Cinque Terre. Despite its prestigious UNESCO World Heritage site designation and its position as a scenic marvel on the Gulf of the Poets, this enchanting town remains somewhat undiscovered by the multitude of global travellers converging on the Cinque Terre.…
Visiting Portovenere
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Lerici

Lerici La Spezia
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Evelyscher
Lerici stands as a cherished and renowned tourist destination along the captivating Riviera di Levante, celebrated for its stunning beaches and picturesque vistas. For those seeking a seaside escape on the Riviera di Levante, where basking under the sun and the allure of the sea are paramount, Lerici emerges as the ideal destination. Each day beckons a new and distinct…
Visiting Lerici
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Portofino

Portofino Italy
Located to the south of the Italian city of Genoa, Portofino stands out as one of the most captivating destinations to explore in Northern Italy. Despite its relatively small size, it exudes an entirely picturesque and charming atmosphere. There are numerous excellent activities to engage in while in Portofino, all along the coastline. Our fondness for traveling in Italy is…
Visiting Portofino

Santa Margherita Ligure

Santa Margherita Ligure
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Michal Osmenda
Santa Margherita Ligure is situated on the Gulf of Tigullio, nestled between Rapallo and Portofino.  Santa Margherita Ligure stands as one of Liguria's most renowned and beloved tourist destinations, capturing the hearts of visitors from around the world. Nestled within a protective bay along the stunning coast, this coastal town is often referred to as the "Pearl of Tigullio." This…
Visiting Santa Margherita Ligure
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Camogli

Camogli
Camogli stands out as one of the most enchanting and romantic towns in the Golfo Paradiso, nestled along the Riviera di Levante. This seaside village's allure lies in its breath-taking panorama: a picturesque marina embraced by historic buildings adorned with vibrant hues that line the seafront, complemented by the evocative remains of a medieval castle. The stunning seaside promenade, reminiscent of…
Visiting Camogli
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Where to Stay in Corniglia

For a peaceful stay, Corniglia’s small guesthouses and B&Bs offer stunning views of the Ligurian coast. It is the quietest of the Cinque Terre villages, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.

A 2-day stay allows time to explore the village, hike to nearby Manarola and Vernazza, and enjoy the breathtaking coastline. A 3 to 4-day stay is great for visiting all five Cinque Terre villages and enjoying boat trips along the coast.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Corniglia. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Corniglia Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Corniglia

Throughout the year, Corniglia and Cinque Terre offer a range of unique experiences, making it a destination suitable for year-round visits. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to plan your visit:

Spring (March to May): During spring, the area enjoys mild and pleasant temperatures, with nature coming to life as flowers bloom. Hiking trails become accessible, and the sea offers a calm environment for swimming. This season allows you to explore the charming villages before the summer crowds descend.

Summer (June to August): The summer months bring extended sunny days, providing the perfect backdrop for swimming and beach relaxation. However, this is also the peak tourist season, characterized by substantial crowds, particularly in July and August. To escape the heat and the masses, consider scheduling your visits for early mornings or late afternoons.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is a splendid time to discover Corniglia. It offers mild temperatures, reduced rainfall, and a vibrant local vineyard scene with full harvests. This is an opportunity to savour new wines and take part in local festivals. Hiking trails of Cinque Terre remain open, although daylight hours gradually decrease.

Winter (December to February): The winter season is the most tranquil period in Corniglia. The villages exude a peaceful ambiance, and accommodation prices are at their lowest. However, temperatures can be quite chilly. This season is ideal for those seeking a serene experience, even though some hiking trails may be closed for maintenance.

Corniglia caters to various preferences and activities throughout the year, whether you’re looking for warm beach days, serene hiking adventures, or cultural festivals.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 10°C
  • February 11°C
  • March 13°C
  • April 16°C
  • May 19°C
  • June 24°C
  • July 28°C
  • August 27°C
  • September 23°C
  • October 19°C
  • November 14°C
  • December 11°C

How to get to Corniglia

Flying to Corniglia: For air travel, the closest airports are in Pisa (about 110 km) and Genoa (practically the same distance). Travelers can take the train or rent a car from these airports. Another option is Milan Malpensa, approximately 300 km away, accessible by car through the Malpensa SS336 highway, A4, west ring road, A1, and A15 to La Spezia. Train travellers can use bus services or the Malpensa Express train to reach the central station.

Driving to Corniglia: Corniglia is centrally situated in the Cinque Terre, nestled between Manarola and Vernazza. Unlike Riomaggiore and Manarola, the road to Corniglia narrows in its final stretch, making the car less optimal for transportation. The town features only a small car park known as the Corniglia car park.  For travellers coming from central, eastern, and southern Italy, take the La Spezia-Santo Stefano Magra exit on the A12-A15. Keep left and follow the SS370 to La Spezia, approximately 10 km away. Proceed through Via Carducci, then turn left onto Viale Italia, which turns sharply right in front of the arsenal, becoming Viale Amendola. At the traffic light, turn left, following signs for the Cinque Terre. Now on Via Fieschi, pass the La Spezia football stadium, and at the traffic lights, continue uphill along the Via delle Cinque Terre, a 25 km route leading to Corniglia.

For those arriving from western and northern Italy, exit in Carrodano-Levanto on the A12, approximately 35 km from Corniglia, reachable in about an hour. From the toll booth, turn left towards Levanto and the Cinque Terre at the intersection with the SP566dir. Ascend initially, then descend through Montale and Casella, reaching a roundabout before Levanto. Follow signs for Monterosso, climbing tortuously through Legnaro and Chiesa Nuova. Before descending to Monterosso, turn left uphill towards Vernazza, passing Soviore sanctuary and taking the SP38 until the SP51 where the Corniglia sign appears at 12.5 km. Pass through Drignana, Case Fornacchi, San Bernardino, and finally, Corniglia.

Taking to Train to Corniglia: Corniglia is also accessible by train, with the station located just over a kilometer from the town. A shuttle connects the station to the village, or visitors can take the paved road or the renowned Lardarina staircase. The Genoa-La Spezia line serves the station, with ticket prices at 5 euros in 2023 and 2.5 euros for children.

 

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