Welcome to Manarola, Italy.
Where is Manarola?
Manarola sits on the southern coastline in northern Italy between Genoa and Lovorno, right next to the port city of La Spezia.
The charming fishing village is one of five along the coast that comprise one of my newest favorite areas in the world called Cinque Terre.
What is Manarola?
Manarola is a captivating and scenic fishing town that is built on the cliffsides that Italy is so well known for. Imagine a scene right out of a travel magazine, and that is what you have here. Brightly colored shops and dwellings liter the coastline in the most splendid way. It was fun to get lost in the maze-like corridors throughout the village.
Why Manarola?
The secret is out about Manarola judging by the number of people we were with. If you are interested in charming shops, restaurants and the exploration of endless details, then this is the place for you. I enjoyed taking pictures of every square inch of this place while others enjoyed visiting the local shops and taking in the breathtaking views. It's quite remarkable how this place was built on cliffs that are so steep.
How to get to Manarola?
Aside from a tour company, the best way to get here is by train or ferry. I would not recommend driving yourself since the area is quite challenging to drive and the parking is limited. In fact, there is no parking for non-residents inside the town, but there is parking on top which is often at capacity. Also be aware that this place, just like many others in Italy, require lots of stairs and some steep walking.
When to visit Manarola?
Peak visiting time is the summer months of June, July, and August, and even into September. To avoid some of the crowds, I've learned that October and November may be the best time to visit.
I would explore every nook I could find and never be disappointed.
A beautiful large terrace was certainly a surprise on top of the village.
I was captivated by all of the details and textures throughout Manarola.
I found it hard to move ten feet at times since it seemed every square inch was so charming.
I felt like I was walking through a movie set and the gull was the director.
Few scenes I encounter seem like a painting I am walking into, and this was definitely one of them.
The village was comprised of so many intricate textures and details.
I finally trekked around the cliff to capture the most picturesque viewpoint of this splendid fishing town of Manarola.
Next Time I go Back to Manarola
I hope to make it back so I can take even more time to explore more corridors, do some shopping, and eat some gelato. In the short time I ran around, there wasn’t time to relax. I think to really get the fully experience, you need at least four or five hours, maybe more.
