Lardarina Staircase
A nearly 400-step red brick staircase connecting Corniglia's train station to its cliffside village, offering stunning sea and vineyard panoramas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler climb
Lardarina Staircase
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler climb
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A nearly 400-step red brick staircase connecting Corniglia's train station to its cliffside village, offering stunning sea and vineyard panoramas.
"The climb can be tiring, but it’s well worth it for the views of vineyards, the sea, and the colorful houses."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Nearly 400 steps await! Good footwear is essential for a comfortable climb up the Lardarina Staircase.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months. There are rest spots, but no facilities directly on the stairs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Lardarina Staircase
Connecting Corniglia train station to the village
A breathtaking ascent of nearly 400 red brick steps, offering evolving vistas of vineyards and the Ligurian Sea.
Panoramic Terrace Views
Along the Lardarina Staircase
Catch your breath at scenic rest stops, each revealing a new, stunning perspective of the colorful village and sparkling sea.
Arrival in Corniglia
Top of the Lardarina Staircase
The rewarding culmination of your climb, stepping into the charming, car-free heart of Corniglia.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Climb
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Nearly 400 steps await! Good footwear is essential for a comfortable climb up the Lardarina Staircase.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months. There are rest spots, but no facilities directly on the stairs.
One of my favorite shots from my trip to Cinque Terre: Stairs in Monterosso, Italy
🚌 Shuttle Bus Option
If climbing isn't for you, a shuttle bus runs from the train station to the village.
📸 Turn Around for Views
Don't forget to look back as you climb! The views of the vineyards and sea are spectacular.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Nearly 400 steps await! Good footwear is essential for a comfortable climb up the Lardarina Staircase.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months. There are rest spots, but no facilities directly on the stairs.
🚌 Shuttle Bus Option
If climbing isn't for you, a shuttle bus runs from the train station to the village.
📸 Turn Around for Views
Don't forget to look back as you climb! The views of the vineyards and sea are spectacular.
🧳 Luggage Strategy
Climbing with luggage is tough. Use the shuttle bus or consider a porter service if available.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Lardarina Staircase a rewarding, albeit challenging, ascent to Corniglia, offering spectacular panoramic views. While some find the climb tiring, especially with luggage, the well-maintained steps and scenic rest stops make it manageable. The shuttle bus provides a convenient alternative for those seeking an easier arrival.
"Scalinata Lardarina is a striking red-brick staircase with nearly 400 steps winding up the cliffside. It’s a rewarding climb, offering panoramic views of vineyards, rooftops, and the Mediterranean. The staircase is well-maintained, with rest spots along the way that make the ascent manageable even in warmer weather.
The climb itself becomes part of the experience—quiet, scenic, and reflective. At the top, you’re greeted by a terrace that opens into the heart of Corniglia, making the effort feel worthwhile. It’s a memorable way to arrive, especially for those who enjoy blending movement with landscape."
Jonathan Phan
"Okay so this is why this village is my LEAST favorite in the Cinque Terre. It was an incredible staircase to climb from the train station up to town of Corniglia.
It took us around 20 minutes, then we wandered a bit in the village. There was not so much to see to be honest.
Happy I did it though !
No toilet so needed to go in the station."
Paul Vivas
"📍 Scalinata Lardarina – Corniglia, Cinque Terre, Italy 🇮🇹
A long brick staircase of 377 steps ⬆️ connecting Corniglia’s train station 🚆 to the hilltop village. The climb can be tiring 😅, especially with luggage, but it’s well worth it for the views of vineyards 🍇, the sea 🌊, and the colorful houses 🏡 as you go up. Along the way there are small resting spots to catch your breath 🪑. If you prefer, there’s also a shuttle bus 🚌, but walking the Lardarina gives a rewarding sense of arrival. 🙌"
Quing_刘妈妈
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lardarina Staircase connects the Corniglia train station to the main village. You'll see the start of the steps right outside the station.
Yes, a shuttle bus service operates between the train station and the village, offering a convenient alternative for those who prefer not to climb.
The climb typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to admire the views.
While possible, climbing with luggage is challenging due to the nearly 400 steps. It's recommended to use the shuttle bus or arrange for luggage assistance if available.
The Lardarina Staircase has a rather low slope, making it manageable for most people, though it is a long climb.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no ticket required to climb the Lardarina Staircase. It is a public pathway connecting the train station to the village.
The staircase itself is free to use. The only potential cost would be for the shuttle bus if you choose to take it instead of walking.
The Lardarina Staircase is accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor public pathway. However, it's best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and views.
A Cinque Terre Card is not required for accessing the Lardarina Staircase. The card is primarily for hiking trails and local trains.
There are no toilets directly on the Lardarina Staircase. You'll need to use the facilities at the train station before you begin your climb or in the village at the top.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The views are spectacular! As you ascend, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of colorful vineyards, the sparkling Ligurian Sea, and the charming rooftops of Corniglia.
Yes, the staircase is well-maintained and includes several small resting spots along the way, allowing you to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery.
The staircase can be climbed by children, but it requires supervision due to the steps. The shuttle bus is a good option for families with very young children or those with strollers.
At the top of the Lardarina Staircase, you'll find yourself in the heart of Corniglia, a picturesque village with shops, restaurants, and stunning viewpoints.
Absolutely! The unique red brick steps winding up the cliff, combined with the sea and village views, make for incredibly photogenic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once you reach Corniglia, the car-free village offers a safer environment for kids to explore. Look for gelato shops and small piazzas where they can run around a bit. The overall experience of arriving via the Lardarina, whether by foot or bus, is a memorable part of a Cinque Terre family trip.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While the shuttle bus has a small fee, it's significantly cheaper than other transport options. However, for the ultimate budget experience, walking the nearly 400 steps is the way to go. It’s a true immersion into the local environment and a memorable part of your Cinque Terre adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lardarina Staircase: A Corniglia Icon
As you ascend, the panoramic views unfold with each step. You'll pass through terraced vineyards, offering glimpses of local agriculture, and catch increasingly breathtaking perspectives of the azure Ligurian Sea. The well-maintained steps and strategically placed rest areas make the climb manageable, allowing you to pause and soak in the scenery. Reaching the top provides a profound sense of accomplishment and a unique, memorable way to arrive in Corniglia, setting the tone for your visit to this charming village.
While the climb is a highlight for many, it's worth noting that it can be strenuous, especially with luggage or during the heat of the day. Fortunately, a shuttle bus service is available from the train station, providing a convenient alternative for those who prefer to conserve their energy for exploring the village itself. Whether you choose to walk or ride, the Lardarina Staircase is an unforgettable part of the Corniglia experience.
Photography Tips for the Lardarina Staircase
Timing is crucial for the best light and fewer crowds. Early mornings offer soft, golden light and a more serene atmosphere, ideal for capturing the staircase without many people. Late afternoons can provide dramatic shadows and warm hues as the sun begins to set. Remember to also turn around as you climb; the views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding vineyards are equally stunning and offer a different photographic perspective.
Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the full sweep of the staircase and its surroundings. If you're looking to add a human element, try to capture people ascending or descending the stairs to give a sense of scale and activity. Don't forget to look for details: the texture of the bricks, the small resting spots, and the vibrant colors of the village peeking through the greenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit