Cinque Terre is a place unlike any other in Italy. Its colorful villages cling to cliffs, the sea laps at their bases, and the scents of fresh basil and sea breeze fill the air. What makes this stretch of coast truly special isn’t just the scenery but the variety of experiences available. We especially love the small group pasta and tiramisu class in Riomaggiore because it offers a hands-on taste of local life, cooked in a cozy home—perfect for food lovers wanting authentic flavors. For those craving a broader adventure, the private trekking tour combines scenic walks with insider insights, making it ideal for first-time visitors eager to explore beyond the crowds.
In this guide, you’ll find a variety of tours including culinary classes, boat trips, scenic hikes, cultural experiences, and private photography sessions. Whether you’re into savoring Ligurian pesto, cruising along the coast, or capturing stunning photos, there’s something here to fit your style. Keep reading as we break down each top experience along with what makes it special.
1. Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Riomaggiore
This half-day culinary workshop is a perfect way to dive into authentic Italian cooking. Limited to only 12 people, it’s a very personal experience hosted in a local home. You’ll learn how to make two types of homemade pasta, plus a classic tiramisu. The instructor, Barbara, shares family secrets in a relaxed setting, and you get to taste your creations with complimentary prosecco and soft drinks. Many reviews praise this experience for its warmth and delicious results, with one guest happily noting it was “the highlight of our trip.”
Bottom Line: This class is ideal for foodies eager to bring home genuine recipes, and the small group size ensures plenty of individual attention.
2. Private Cinque Terre Trek & Tour
For roughly eight hours, this private guide takes you through the ancient villages of Riomaggiore, Groppo, Manarola, and Vernazza. You’ll explore terraced vineyards, walk along the Via dell’Amore, and visit the 14th-century church of Our Lady of Health in Volastra. This experience offers personalized attention and insider tips you won’t get in large groups. The guide’s local knowledge shines when sharing stories of the villages’ history and winegrowing heritage. Reviews highlight how flexible and informative guide Pall was, often saying it felt like exploring with a longtime friend.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time visitors and history buffs, this tour balances scenic views with cultural insights.
3. Manarola: Authentic Pesto Making Class at Cinque Terre
This one-hour class introduces you to the art of making traditional Ligurian pesto in Manarola. Led by a local foodie and chef, you’ll grind fresh basil, pine nuts, and garlic using a mortar and pestle. Afterward, taste your pesto with handmade focaccia and a glass of local wine in a lively, convivial atmosphere. It’s a quick, immersive experience perfect for those who want to learn a signature regional dish. Many guests comment on how easy it is to recreate this recipe at home, making it a practical souvenir.
Bottom Line: An excellent, brief culinary introduction tailored for travelers seeking authentic Ligurian flavors.
4. Cinque Terre Wonders Boat Tour
This eight-hour journey with Kalòs 5Terre gives you a comprehensive view of Liguria’s coast from the water. You’ll cruise past the colorful villages, visit Portovenere, and explore the Gulf of Poets with stops at three islands, including Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, where you can explore caves. The boat itself is modern and comfortable, and the itinerary includes swimming stops at secluded coves. Reviewers rave about how the boat allows you to see the coastline’s breathtaking cliffs and colorful towns from a unique perspective.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a full day of scenic beauty and sea adventure in style.
5. Pasta, Pesto and Tiramisu class Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre
In just over two hours, this intimate class in Riomaggiore walks you through making pasta, pesto, and tiramisu. Host Luca makes the experience fun and accessible, sharing historical tidbits and cooking tips. Many students leave confident enough to recreate these dishes, praising the warm, friendly atmosphere and delicious results. It’s an affordable, engaging way to spend an afternoon immersed in local flavors.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic cooking experience that’s both fun and educational without taking up a whole day.
6. BarCa Winery Cinqueterre Trekking & Wine Tasting & Pesto Class
This 1.5-hour experience combines a vineyard tour in Volastra with a tasting of three distinctive wines, including the legendary BarCa Cinqueterre DOC. You’ll also learn about heroic viticulture and enjoy a trek through the vineyards. The highlight is sampling the wines alongside a pesto-making lesson, all with stunning ocean views. Reviewers recommend it for its deep dive into local wine and the authentic, friendly host Andrea.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers and those interested in local winemaking traditions, with a tasty pesto bonus.
7. Cinque Terre by the sea with local wine
This 2.5-hour boat tour offers a peaceful way to see all five villages from the water, away from busy land paths. A friendly guide takes you past Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso, with plenty of opportunities for photos and swimming. Guests love the relaxed pace, with one calling it “the best way to see Cinque Terre from a different perspective.” It’s especially great for travelers who want a laid-back experience with stunning coastlines.
Bottom Line: A scenic, calming tour perfect for nature lovers and those short on time.
8. 3 Hour shared Cinque Terre tour + Swim Stops at Secluded Beaches!
This three-hour boat tour with a small group (max 12) combines sightseeing with swimming in quiet, hidden beaches. The local skipper will take you past all five villages, stopping at peaceful coves for refreshing swims. Passengers love the chance to escape the crowds, with many noting how the boat’s pace and personalized service make it special. You might even spot dolphins during your journey.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active travelers who want quick, scenic, and relaxing time on the water.
9. Home Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Riomaggiore
For three hours, you’ll join a local host in her Riomaggiore kitchen to prepare three traditional dishes from scratch. The experience is personalized, focusing on seasonal ingredients, and ends with a communal meal paired with local wines. Reviewers mention how welcoming and knowledgeable the hosts are, making this not just a cooking class but a warm immersion into local life. It’s perfect for travelers wanting hands-on culinary skills and a genuine cultural connection.
Bottom Line: Great for foodies who want a relaxed, authentic experience in a private setting.
10. Swim&Enjoy 5 terre on the PINK Hyena with Captain Jenny!
This three-hour private boat ride on Jenny’s pink Ligurian gozzo offers breathtaking views of Cinque Terre from the sea. You’ll cruise past Riomaggiore, Manarola, and other villages, with swim stops in crystal-clear waters and the chance to relax on deck. Guests praise Jenny’s high-energy and personable style, often describing it as “the best boat ride ever.” The customized route and swim options make this a memorable, fun outing.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers looking for a lively, personalized boat experience with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities.
11. Classic Cinque Terre
This small-group tour covers four villages—Manarola, Vernazza, Monterosso, and one more—by foot, train, and boat. It usually lasts six to seven hours and offers an excellent overview for first timers. The guide helps you navigate the best viewpoints and secret spots. Many rave about Veronica’s personable approach and knowledge, making complex logistics like train tickets seem effortless.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet manageable introduction to Cinque Terre’s main sights.
12. Cinque Terre: Gnocchi & Pesto Class with Seaview in Riomaggiore
This three-hour class combines making Gnocchi and Genovese Pesto in a home with stunning sea views. The hosts are passionate and engaging, creating a lively atmosphere. Guests enjoy learning new skills while overlooking the Ligurian coast, then savor the meal with local wine. Many note how the experience feels like a dinner with friends, making it a heartfelt way to connect with local culture.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a cozy, scenic cooking experience with local hosts.
13. Pesto Class and Wine Tasting in Vernazza, Cinque Terre
This 1.5-hour session is perfect for food and wine lovers. You’ll learn how to make pesto by hand in a historic cellar, then enjoy tastings of local wines paired with cheeses and focaccia. The instructor is knowledgeable, and the intimate setting makes for a relaxed, educational experience. Reviewers mention the fun of grinding pesto in a mortar and the delicious wine pairings.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a quick but authentic Ligurian culinary experience.
14. Cinque Terre Pesto Making Class, Boat Tour and Lunch
This four-hour tour combines a pesto-making class, a boat trip, and a seaside lunch. You’ll start with a pesto demonstration, cruise along the coast, and then enjoy a meal featuring your freshly made pesto. It’s family friendly, with vegetarian options available, and offers a wonderful mix of hands-on cooking and scenic cruising. Many reviewers find it a perfect way to experience Cinque Terre’s flavors and scenery in one go.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a full, multisensory experience combining food, scenery, and relaxation.
15. Portraits with a Cinque Terre photographer
Capture your memories with a professional photoshoot in one of Cinque Terre’s stunning villages like Vernazza or Manarola. The 30-minute session is tailored to your preferred backdrop, whether you want family photos, couples, or solo shots. Reviewers praise David’s skill at guiding families and couples, and many cherish the beautifully composed images they receive afterward. It’s a perfect way to preserve your trip with high-quality photos.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting professional photos to remember Cinque Terre’s beauty.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding between these experiences, consider your budget, interests, and physical fitness. Food lovers should look at the cooking classes and pesto workshops, while those seeking scenic views might prefer the boat tours or portraits. For a deeper dive into local wines and vineyards, the wine and pesto combo offers both.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular experiences like the small group cooking classes and boat tours. Think about your comfort level—hiking tours require some mobility, and boat trips involve seasickness risk for sensitive travelers.
In summary, Cinque Terre offers a wide array of memorable tours, from culinary adventures and scenic boat rides to cultural walks and photo shoots. For a relaxed, personal experience, the home cooking classes and private treks shine. For pure sightseeing and fun, the boat excursions and swim stops are unbeatable. With so many options, planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on the experiences that will turn your trip into a treasure trove of memories.
