If I had to sum up my weekend in Cinque Terre, Italy, in just one word, it would be magical. The dreamiest beach town you must experience for yourself! But getting there? That was a tad bit of a roller coaster.
Our journey, 4 girls conquering our first train strike, began Friday afternoon. 11 hours filled with delays, confusion, and occasional “Are we sure we’re going to get there moments.” Little did we know, 1 bus later, 3 trains, and a 1-hour taxi would drop us off at the most breathtaking village, even TikTok underestimated the beauty.
The moment we stepped out of the taxi into the streets of Monterosso, the northernmost village of Cinque Terre and our home base for the weekend, the chaos had completely melted away. The beach air, colorful buildings, the mountains, and the coastal town vibe was unmatchable. Despite our long day, taking a deep breath and soaking in the beauty made every second worth it.
Saturday was straight out of a postcard. It was a dream. We woke up to the sounds of waves against the shore as we indulged in a delicious oceanfront breakfast of fresh fruit, gourmet pancakes, and delicious Italian coffees. Looking around and taking in the beauty was breathtaking. I cannot imagine a more perfect breakfast. Thank you, Instagram reels, for the perfect recommendation for Gelateria La Scogliera. The perfect start to the day.
With full tummies, we headed straight to the beach. Monterosso is the only village in Cinque Terre with a large, stretched beach. The white pebbles with the teal waters were perfect for a quick photo session. Always capture the picture-perfect moments!
The morning until mid-afternoon was spent lounging in the sun, laughing, snacking on their most known food, Focaccia, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Just the relaxation we were looking for.
Following the beach day, we boarded a boat tour to see all five villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Seeing the towns from the boat perspective was magical. The cliffs filled with rainbow-colored buildings while being served hors d’oeuvres and popping Champagne to celebrate my sweet friend’s birthday made the evening feel unreal.
The tour concluded as the sun began to set. Our perfect day ended with a Monterosso dinner. The pesto melted away in your mouth. As we walked back to the Air B and B, I reminisced on the day I will remember forever. The beauty, the friendships, and the memories made everything worth it.
Sunday brought our touristy day. Of course, we had to explore the gift shops and hike on the famous Blue Trail. Be prepared for an adventurous, yet beautiful journey. Following the hike, I picked up a postcard because I plan to make a collage of all the places I am lucky enough to visit before the end of my study abroad.
Traveling while studying abroad may be far from glamorous, but the destinations make every second worth it. Cinque Terre isn’t just a beautiful location, it is a breathtaking step away from reality where you experience joy, nature's beauty, and relief.
As I packed my bag to venture back to Cimba, I felt like I was leaving a piece of beauty behind. The colorful buildings, delicious focaccia, and breathtaking views live rent-free in my head. Cinque Terre taught me that yes, the journey may be hard, but the destination is always worth it. Take it in.
If I could relive this weekend every day, I would in a heartbeat. Cinque Terre, you are my picture-perfect postcard.