Corniglia is a small village located right in the heart of the Cinque Terre. Its main distinguishing feature is that it is the only village in the Cinque Terre that does not overlook the sea. In fact, as you walk through Corniglia, you can see that it sits right at the top of a rocky promontory surrounded by vineyards, creating a breathtaking landscape.
The village can only be reached via a long staircase. If you want to experience the Cinque Terre and Corniglia on foot, you will find some fantastic ideas for trekking experiences throughout Liguria.
The village has very ancient origins, and it is even thought that the first inhabitants of this area were Roman slaves who, once they gained their freedom, took the name Corneli.
The first settlers certainly decided to take advantage of the characteristics of the land by dedicating themselves to wine production, as demonstrated by some amphorae found in Pompeii bearing the name "Cornelia". Vernaccia di Corniglia is a highly prized white wine with a unique flavour, also mentioned in one of Boccaccio's tales in the Decameron.
What to see in Corniglia
As you walk through Corniglia, you can admire numerous remains of medieval buildings, as, like all the villages in the area, it experienced numerous different rulers before becoming part of the newly established Kingdom of Italy.
Why not spend a relaxing day discovering the beauty of this fascinating village in the heart of the Cinque Terre?
If you want to spend a day in Corniglia, we have prepared a list of things to see and visit at your leisure:
- Parish Church of San Pietro
- Santa Maria Terrace
- Sanctuary of Nostra Signora delle Grazie
And now, let’s set off together to discover some of the most distinctive places in Corniglia!
Parish Church of San Pietro
The Parish Church of San Pietro, located in the upper part of the village, is one of the most characteristic examples of the Genoese Gothic style widely found throughout the Cinque Terre. In addition to its distinctive architecture, the church features a 12th-century marble baptismal font and an altarpiece. It is also possible to admire numerous paintings inside the church.
Santa Maria Terrace
Walking through Corniglia and climbing a steep staircase, you reach a characteristic little square known as Fosso, from where you can admire the majestic tower. This is the only surviving remnant of the medieval Genoese rule. Climbing to the top, you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the entire gulf towards Manarola.
Continuing your visit to Corniglia on foot, you can reach Largo Taragio, a particularly distinctive street leading to the Santa Maria Terrace. This wonderful terrace offers a beautiful view of the gulf
Sanctuary of Nostra Signora delle Grazie
This is one of the sanctuaries of the Cinque Terre and is particularly interesting because it is believed to have been built on the remains of an ancient medieval monastery. Inside, you can admire the wonderful triptych of the Madonna and Child, together with two valuable depictions of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux and Saint Bernardino of Siena.
What to do in Corniglia - the Slow Active Tours proposal
Once you have discovered the hidden wonders tucked away among the narrow streets of Corniglia, it is time to immerse yourself in the sounds and aromas of this ancient village.
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Walking through the characteristic caruggi
One of the most recommended activities in this village is to walk around Corniglia and lose yourself among its caruggi. Caruggi are the small streets and alleyways that wind through the beautiful villages of Liguria and often host traditional workshops and old shops.
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Marina di Corniglia
If you feel like taking a break on the beach and relaxing after some trekking around Corniglia, you absolutely cannot miss the "marina di Corniglia". This is a small sandy bay, one of the very few in the area. It is not easy to reach, as you have to descend a very long and steep staircase, but once you get there, the view is wonderful.
Another must-see stop is Gùvano Beach, a high rocky cliff overlooking the sea that offers breathtaking views. From here, you can reach the small beach below via a short, steep path. -
Walking holiday in Liguria
Slow Active Tours offers an incredible walking holiday to discover the fascinating stretch of land between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the mountains of north-western Italy. The itinerary connecting Sestri Levante with some of the most beautiful destinations in Liguria passes through Corniglia.
Are you reading the article and already looking forward to visiting Corniglia and Liguria?
Discover our travel proposals and set off on your next adventure!
Walking holiday in Liguria
Independent walking holiday
Exploring Liguria
Cinque Terre and Portofino trekking
Festivals and Popular Events in Corniglia
Corniglia is one of the stops on the famous "Cinque Terre Organ Festival". This is a renowned festival that brings wonderful classical music concerts to the streets and squares of the Cinque Terre villages every summer. An unmissable experience.
From a religious perspective, the main patron saint celebration is the Feast of Saint Peter, held on 29 June. On this occasion, a large procession leaves the Church of San Pietro and winds through Corniglia and its streets before reaching the Santa Maria Terrace.
Typical Dishes of Corniglia
The cuisine of Corniglia mainly reflects the culinary traditions of Liguria and the La Spezia area, but some dishes originated right here in Corniglia. These include torta di riso, made with rice, cheese and eggs and baked in the oven, and the torta dei Fieschi.
Eating and Drinking in Corniglia
Here are some local suggestions:
Bar Pan e Vin at Via Fieschi, 123. This distinctive bar is located along Corniglia’s main street and has just three small outdoor tables, but inside it hides a little treasure. Here you can sample several types of highly distinctive bruschetta to suit a wide range of tastes.
Terra Rossa at Via Fieschi, 58. Right in the heart of Corniglia, this charming venue has a terrace overlooking the sea. Its generous aperitivi made with high-quality ingredients, accompanied by excellent cocktails, are particularly popular.
Osteria A Cantina De Mananan at Via Fieschi, 117. This traditional osteria is located along the narrow main street of Corniglia’s historic centre. Its strengths are undoubtedly the friendly staff and the authenticity and tradition of its recipes and local dishes.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your backpack and set off!
