Belvedere Santa Maria Corniglia - a set of stairs leading up to a building
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Belvedere Santa Maria Corniglia

4.8
·14 reviews·Corniglia, Italy

Corniglia's Belvedere Santa Maria offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Ligurian coast, a truly breathtaking sight.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning views

CrowdMedium
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Belvedere Santa Maria Corniglia - a set of stairs leading up to a building

Belvedere Santa Maria Corniglia

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for stunning views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Corniglia's Belvedere Santa Maria offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Ligurian coast, a truly breathtaking sight.

4.8
(14 reviews)

"The view from the terrace is the thing we bring home with the most joy and is worth the holiday."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Conquer the Stairs!

Wear comfortable shoes for Corniglia's steep paths and the Lardarina staircase. The views are worth the climb!

🚌 Shuttle Bus Savvy

If stairs aren't your thing, the shuttle bus from the train station to the village center is a convenient option.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Belvedere Santa Maria

Belvedere Santa Maria

Corniglia

The iconic viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Ligurian Sea and the colorful coastline. A must-see for sunset!

Corniglia's Colorful Streets

Corniglia's Colorful Streets

Corniglia village

Wander through narrow, winding alleys adorned with vibrant flowers and charming architecture. Get lost in the authentic Italian village feel.

Lardarina Staircase

Lardarina Staircase

Corniglia train station to village

The challenging but rewarding 382-step climb offers stunning sea views with every ascent. A true Cinque Terre experience!

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace Corniglia's Charm

Corniglia is the only Cinque Terre village without direct sea access, perched high on a cliff. Be prepared for the Lardarina staircase (382 steps!) or the shuttle bus from the train station. This unique position offers breathtaking, less crowded views.

Book Ahead for Views

Accommodation, especially with sea views, books up fast, particularly in peak season. Consider booking your stay and any desired tours well in advance to secure the best spots and avoid disappointment.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for stunning views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Shoulder seasons (April-May, Sept-Oct)
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Los mejores consejos y ruta para tu viaje a Cinque Terre 🍕🍝🇮🇹 #viajestiktok #viaje #cinqueterre #riomaggiore #italy #italiansummer #manarola #vernaza #monterossoalmare #corniglia #traveltip #rute
@dimedondeynosperdemos
16.5K likes • 402K views

👟 Conquer the Stairs!

Wear comfortable shoes for Corniglia's steep paths and the Lardarina staircase. The views are worth the climb! TikTok

🚌 Shuttle Bus Savvy

If stairs aren't your thing, the shuttle bus from the train station to the village center is a convenient option. TikTok

Si quieres visitar Cinque Terre guárdate este vídeo🇮🇹🍕🍝❤️ Cinque Terre, como su nombre indica, son cinco pequeños pueblos costeros en la región de Liguria, al noroeste de Italia: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola y Riomaggiore. Para disfrutarlos bien, te recomiendo ir al menos tres días. Vuela a Pisa y desde allí coger un tren hasta La Spezia, ciudad que te recomiendo 100% que te a...
@annavazugc
10.9K likes • 196.6K views
reddit.com

Corniglia, Italy

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

The Belvedere Santa Maria is the prime spot for sunset. Arrive early to snag a good position. Reddit

💧 Hot Water Caution

Be mindful of quick showers; water heaters can run out of hot water. [^Review]

reddit.com

First time in Cinque Terre and there's nothing quite like it.

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Conquer the Stairs!

Wear comfortable shoes for Corniglia's steep paths and the Lardarina staircase. The views are worth the climb! TikTok

🚌 Shuttle Bus Savvy

If stairs aren't your thing, the shuttle bus from the train station to the village center is a convenient option. TikTok

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

The Belvedere Santa Maria is the prime spot for sunset. Arrive early to snag a good position. Reddit

💧 Hot Water Caution

Be mindful of quick showers; water heaters can run out of hot water. [^Review]

📱 Download Offline Maps

Cell service can be spotty. Download offline maps of Cinque Terre for easy navigation. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(14 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views from Belvedere Santa Maria and the charming, authentic atmosphere of Corniglia. Hosts are frequently highlighted for their exceptional hospitality and helpful recommendations. Some guests noted the limited hot water in showers and the physical effort required to reach the village from the train station.

"Our stay was absolutely incredible, thanks in large part to our wonderful host, Giulia! She went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and convenience.

From the moment we booked, Giulia was incredibly helpful. She patiently guided us through a late arrival, even staying on the phone to ensure we found the place without a hitch. She accommodated our need for a late checkout and allowed us to store our luggage, which was a lifesaver.

But what truly sets Giulia apart is her genuine desire to make your trip special. She provided fantastic recommendations for our onward journey to Cinque Terre and even helped us with the arrangements.

If you're looking for a place to stay with a host who truly cares, look no further. We wholeheartedly recommend this property – 100%!"

Fahad Mohammad

"Seamless check-in, recently renovated and clean rooms, excellent location, and a wonderful host. Overall, a very good experience.

Be sure to take quick showers, though, the water heaters are small and run out of hot water pretty quickly."

Rushikesh Kamalapurkar

"We stayed in the Blu room for 2 nights and loved it. You could see the sea right out of the window and a short flight of stairs will take you to a terrace overlooking the sea.

The host was great, friendly with good recommendations for local cuisine. The rooms were clean. Though small inside, since we were mostly outdoors and the view from the room was picturesque, we had no complaints at all.

If we are ever in Corniglia again, we would stay here."

Sushruta Das

What People Like

Spectacular sea views
Charming village atmosphere
Exceptional host hospitality

What People Dislike

Limited hot water
Steep climb from station

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Belvedere Santa Maria is located in the heart of Corniglia. To reach Corniglia, you'll typically take a train to La Spezia or Levanto and then a regional train to Corniglia station. From the station, you can either climb the Lardarina staircase (382 steps) or take the local shuttle bus up to the village center. The Belvedere is a short walk from there. TikTok+1

Yes, the Cinque Terre train is the most efficient way to travel between the five villages. A Cinque Terre Card often includes unlimited train travel. TikTok

No, private vehicles are not allowed in the Cinque Terre villages, including Corniglia. Parking is available outside the villages, and you'll need to use the train or shuttle. TikTok

Many visitors find a combination of trains and walking trails to be the best way to explore. For Corniglia specifically, be prepared for its elevated position. TikTok

Taxis are very limited and expensive in Cinque Terre. The train and shuttle bus are the primary modes of transport. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Belvedere Santa Maria itself is a public viewpoint and does not require a specific ticket to access. However, if you plan to use the Cinque Terre train or hiking trails between villages, a Cinque Terre Card is recommended. Reddit

As an outdoor viewpoint, Belvedere Santa Maria is accessible at all times. However, for the best experience and safety, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours or shortly after sunset. Reddit

There is no direct entrance fee to enter Corniglia village. However, access to certain amenities or services within the village might incur charges. TikTok

Cinque Terre Cards can be purchased at train stations in La Spezia, Levanto, and within each of the five villages, as well as online. TikTok

Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or families. It's best to check the official Cinque Terre National Park website for current pricing and offers. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers the most magical light for photography at Belvedere Santa Maria, casting a warm glow over the sea and coastline. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea views and village panoramas. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for sunset shots. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in Cinque Terre National Park to protect the environment and ensure visitor safety. Always check local regulations before flying. TikTok

Besides the Belvedere, the narrow, colorful streets, the Lardarina staircase, and any spot with a sea view from a balcony or window are highly photogenic. [^Review]

Try capturing the village from different angles, perhaps from a higher vantage point or by focusing on architectural details and local life. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Don't miss out on Ligurian specialties like pesto (trofie al pesto is classic), focaccia, fresh seafood, and local wines like Sciacchetrà. Reddit

Yes, Corniglia has several bars and restaurants, particularly near the Belvedere, offering stunning sea views along with delicious food and drinks. [^Review]

Many visitors praise the local cuisine and friendly hosts. Look for trattorias serving fresh pasta and seafood. [^Review]

Prices can vary, but you can find both casual and more upscale dining options. Eating at local trattorias often offers good value. Reddit

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer pasta dishes and vegetable-based options. It's always a good idea to ask about vegetarian or vegan choices. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Corniglia offers a unique Cinque Terre experience, but families should be prepared for its elevated position. The shuttle bus from the train station is a lifesaver with young children and strollers, avoiding the strenuous Lardarina staircase. TikTok Once in the village, the narrow streets are fun to explore, but always keep a close eye on little ones as there are many drops and steep inclines. The Belvedere Santa Maria offers stunning views, but ensure children are supervised closely. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options can be limited away from the main village center. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Active Travelers

For hikers, Corniglia is a fantastic base or stopover. It's connected to other villages via scenic trails, though some may be closed seasonally. The Lardarina staircase itself is a mini-hike and a great warm-up! TikTok Consider purchasing a Cinque Terre Card that includes trail access. Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The views from the trails surrounding Corniglia are unparalleled. TikTok

📸 Photographers

Corniglia is a photographer's dream, especially the Belvedere Santa Maria for sunset shots. Reddit Capture the colorful houses cascading down the cliffside and the dramatic sea vistas. Experiment with different angles in the narrow alleys and don't forget to photograph the unique architecture. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the expansive scenery. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Corniglia: The Unique Cinque Terre Village

Corniglia stands apart from the other four Cinque Terre villages as it's the only one not directly on the sea. Instead, it's perched dramatically atop a steep cliff, offering a unique perspective and a bit more of a climb for visitors. This elevated position means that arriving by train requires either tackling the Lardarina staircase, a challenging but rewarding climb of 382 steps, or opting for the convenient shuttle bus that runs regularly between the train station and the village center. TikTok This initial ascent is part of what makes Corniglia feel so special and less crowded than its seaside counterparts. TikTok

Once you've reached the village, you'll find a charming labyrinth of narrow, winding alleys, colorful houses adorned with flower boxes, and breathtaking viewpoints. The Belvedere Santa Maria is the star attraction, offering panoramic vistas of the Ligurian Sea and the rugged coastline. It's a popular spot for sunset, so arriving a bit early is recommended to soak in the atmosphere and find a good vantage point. Reddit The village itself is a delight to explore on foot, with hidden piazzas and local shops adding to its authentic charm. [^Review]

The Lardarina Staircase and Shuttle Bus

The Lardarina staircase is an iconic feature of Corniglia, connecting the train station below to the village perched high above. This brick pathway, lined with over 380 steps, is a significant physical challenge but offers increasingly spectacular views of the coastline as you ascend. For many visitors, conquering the Lardarina is a quintessential Cinque Terre experience, a testament to the ingenuity of past generations who built these pathways. TikTok

However, for those who prefer to conserve their energy or have mobility concerns, the shuttle bus is an excellent alternative. This bus service operates frequently between the train station and the village center, providing a comfortable and efficient way to reach Corniglia. TikTok The decision between the stairs and the bus often depends on personal preference, fitness levels, and how much luggage you're carrying. Regardless of your choice, the journey up is an integral part of the Corniglia experience, setting the stage for the unique beauty that awaits.

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