Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Reggio, Cinque Terre

Church in Vernazza

Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Reggio Cinque Terre
Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Reggio Cinque Terre
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Francesco Adami

The Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio sits above Vernazza in a small, shaded church square reached by a paved, uphill path through terraced landscapes. It's a peaceful contrast to the busy harbour below, and the approach is part of the experience: chapels along the way mark the Via Crucis, and the views open up as you climb.

If you want one of the things to do in Vernazza that feels genuinely local and slow-paced, this is an excellent choice, especially as part of a walking tour of Vernazza that links viewpoints, vineyards, and the quieter religious sites of the Cinque Terre. The square itself is memorable for its canopy of ancient trees, including a cypress often described as the oldest in Liguria.

History and Significance of the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio

The sanctuary is documented from at least the 13th century, and it forms part of the wider network of Cinque Terre sanctuaries that sit above the coastal villages. Its position matters: historically, these hill sanctuaries were places of devotion but also landmarks on the routes that connected scattered settlements across ridgelines and terraces.

Inside, one of the focal works is the revered image of the Virgin, linked by tradition to St Luke but generally attributed by modern scholarship to a 14th-century school (sources differ on whether the attribution is Genoese or Tuscan). The church retains a Romanesque façade, while much of the interior character reflects later reworking, including Baroque decorative elements and a 19th-century restructuring into a three-nave, Latin-cross plan.

Things to See and Do in the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio

Walk up via the paved route from Vernazza and treat the chapels as natural pause-points rather than something to rush past; they give the climb a rhythm and make the sanctuary feel like a true destination, not just a viewpoint. Near the top, the atmosphere changes as the path levels out into the church square, where shade and silence replace the bustle of the coast.

Spend time in the forecourt under the monumental trees and look back for wide views over the terraces and the sea. If the church is open, step inside to appreciate the contrast between the plain exterior and the richer interior details, then linger in the square before heading down the same way (or continuing onward if you’re linking this walk into a longer ridge-and-hamlet route).

How to Get to the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio

From Vernazza, the classic approach is on foot via the paved trail that climbs from near the railway station through terraces and vineyards; it's about 2 km and typically takes around an hour uphill at an unhurried pace. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy..

The nearest practical airports for reaching Vernazza are Pisa (PSA) and Genoa (GOA), with onward travel by train via La Spezia and regional connections into the Cinque Terre line. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Vernazza on Booking.com.

If you're driving, you generally won't want to take a car into Vernazza itself; it's far easier to park outside the village area (or base in La Spezia/Levanto and come in by rail) and do the sanctuary as a walk from town. 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.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Open during daytime hours.
  • Best time to visit: Go in the morning for cooler temperatures on the climb, or later afternoon for softer light over the terraces and sea.
  • How long to spend: Allow 2-3 hours return from Vernazza, plus extra time if you want to sit in the square or wait for the church to be open.
  • Accessibility: Expect a sustained uphill walk on a paved path with some steeper sections; it’s not ideal for limited mobility, and strollers are impractical.
  • Facilities: The sanctuary area is simple and quiet; bring water, and plan café stops back in Vernazza before or after the walk.

Where to Stay Close to the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio

For a culture-heavy Cinque Terre itinerary, base inside Vernazza so you can start early and enjoy the village after the day-trippers thin out; if your priority is easier logistics and more transport options, base in La Spezia or Levanto and day-trip into Vernazza.

For a central Vernazza stay that keeps you close to the station and the start of the uphill path, Il Sorriso di Vernazza (Pensione Sorriso) is a convenient, village-core option. If you want a classic long-running place in the heart of town, Hotel Gianni Franzi puts you right in the old lanes and within easy walking distance of the trail start. For a more boutique feel close to the harbour-side atmosphere, La Malà is well positioned for sunrise and evening strolls.

Is the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio Worth Visiting?

Yes, if you want Vernazza to feel bigger than its waterfront postcard view. The sanctuary walk adds a second “layer” to the village experience: terraced landscapes, devotional waypoints, and a calm, shaded destination with real local significance.

If you're short on time or avoiding uphill walking, it may be better to focus on the harbour, viewpoints, and a short section of coastal trail instead. But for travellers who enjoy scenic climbs and quieter corners, it's one of the must-see places in Vernazza.

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

For families who enjoy short hikes, this works well as a goal-based walk: chapels as milestones, then a shaded square at the top for a breather before heading down. It’s best with older children who can manage sustained uphill sections without getting frustrated.

If you’re travelling with very young kids or a stroller, consider skipping it unless everyone is comfortable with carrying gear. The path is paved but the climb is the main challenge, and the day is more enjoyable when you’re not fighting the gradient.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

This is a strong couples’ stop because it feels like a shared “mini-pilgrimage” away from the crowds, with natural pauses and panoramic moments built into the route. The shaded forecourt is ideal for slowing down and lingering without needing a plan.

Time it for late afternoon if you want gentler light and a more atmospheric return walk into Vernazza as evening begins. It pairs naturally with a relaxed dinner back in the village after you've earned it.

Budget Travelers

It's an excellent budget-friendly add-on because it's free and fills half a day with a memorable, self-guided experience. Bring water and a simple snack, enjoy the square, then save your spending for one good meal back in Vernazza.

If you're watching costs closely, base in La Spezia or Levanto for a wider range of accommodation prices, then do Vernazza and the sanctuary as a day trip by rail.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (355)

Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero sits above the sea near Riomaggiore and is reached by a popular, sometimes steep network of hiking trails; visitors praise the rewarding panoramic views over Portovenere, Cinque Terre and Riomaggiore, describe the walk as a good active outing or pilgrimage, and note the peaceful church and monastery at the top that can feel tucked away and unexpectedly serene.

Jesus Martin Fernandez
5 months ago
"Nice hike to arrive, great views!!👌"
Leandro Jose Tesorero
a year ago
"A beautiful shrine to Our Lady worth visiting and doing the hike / pilgrimage so you can really get an awesome view of the whole Portovenere / CinqueTerre especially Riomaggiore..."
Steen _
6 years ago
"What a view when you make it to the top. The hike was really good for people looking for some activity during their stay in Cinque Terra. The churchis beautiful and was certainly a nice surprise for us once we reached the top. I would definitely recommend if your up for a bit of a challenge...."

FAQs for Visiting Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio

Getting There

It’s above Vernazza in the hamlet area of Reggio, set in a shaded square reached by an uphill path from the village. Think of it as Vernazza’s “upper sanctuary” on the terraced slopes.
Start near the railway station area and follow the paved uphill route that climbs through terraces toward Reggio. It’s well known locally, and the chapels on the Via Crucis help confirm you’re on the right line.
From the station, pick up the paved trail that climbs inland and up toward Reggio, then keep following it as it threads through cultivated terraces. Plan for a steady uphill walk rather than a quick hop.
Parking in and around Vernazza is limited and can add stress to a simple walk. For most visitors, it’s far easier to arrive by train and do the sanctuary as a straightforward out-and-back hike.

Tickets & Entry

The sanctuary is free to visit, and the value comes from the walk and the setting rather than a ticketed interior. Any costs you encounter are more likely to be transport-related (trains/cards) than entry.
No advance booking is typically needed for a self-guided visit. The only planning factor is choosing a time of day that suits the uphill walk and the weather.

Visiting Experience

If you move efficiently, you can do a quick up-and-down in about 2 hours, but it will feel rushed. A more enjoyable pace is closer to 2.5-3 hours return, including time in the square.
In heavy rain, the climb is less pleasant and views may disappear, so it’s often better saved for a clearer window. In light cloud or cooler conditions, it can still be worthwhile because the walk is shaded and the atmosphere can feel especially calm.
It can be closed outside of services, so don’t treat interior access as guaranteed. If seeing the inside matters to you, aim to align with known service times rather than relying on chance.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it’s a common add-on for people who want a quieter, higher route above the village rather than only the harbour-level sights. It also works well as part of a broader “sanctuaries” theme across the Cinque Terre.
The simplest “loop-like” experience is an out-and-back: climb to the sanctuary, pause in the square, then descend the same way for changing views. If you want a true loop, you’ll need to connect onward to higher hamlets and return via a different trail.

Photography

Yes-terraces, changing angles on Vernazza, and the shaded square all photograph well. The best shots usually come from stopping briefly as the village view opens up behind you.
Morning is best for a cooler climb and clearer air, while late afternoon often gives softer light over the terraces. Choose based on whether you prioritise comfort or mood.

Accessibility & Facilities

The sustained uphill approach makes it challenging for limited mobility, even though the path is paved. If mobility is a concern, focus on the harbour-level sights and shorter viewpoint walks.
Seating is easier once you reach the sanctuary square, where you can rest under the trees. For full facilities, plan to use cafés and restrooms in Vernazza before you start the climb.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Treat Vernazza as your café base: grab water or coffee before you go, and plan your main break for when you return. The sanctuary experience is strongest when you’re self-sufficient on the climb.
Combine it with a slow wander through Vernazza’s lanes and viewpoints, then finish with a relaxed meal by the harbour. This creates a satisfying “village + terraces” itinerary without overpacking the day.

Nearby Attractions to the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio

  • Vernazza Harbour and Main Square: The village's postcard heart, ideal for a slow stroll and an easy pre-hike coffee stop.
  • Chiesa di Santa Margherita d’Antiochia: Vernazza’s iconic seaside church with a dramatic setting right by the water.
  • Castello Doria: A hilltop fortification above the village with strong viewpoints over the coastline.
  • Sentiero Vernazza - Monterosso: A classic Cinque Terre path for coastal scenery and a longer, more energetic hike.
  • San Bernardino (Vernazza): A quiet hillside hamlet above Vernazza that works well as an additional viewpoint-and-vineyard extension.

The Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Reggio, Cinque Terre appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Vernazza!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Open during daytime hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio, Vernazza, SP, Italy
Vernazza: 1 km

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