Vernazza stands out as one of the most charming villages in the Cinque Terre, thanks to its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and lively harbor. But what makes Vernazza truly special for travelers are the variety of tours available, offering everything from relaxing boat rides to authentic culinary experiences. One highlight we love is the Vernazza: Cinque Terre Cruise with Sunset Aperetif Option, which combines stunning sea views with the chance to swim in protected waters. Imagine sipping a aperitif as the sky turns shades of pink over the Ligurian coast—an unforgettable way to see Cinque Terre from a different perspective.
Vernazza’s unique position on the coastline makes it a perfect starting point for a variety of guided tours. Whether you’re interested in tasting local wines, learning to make pesto, exploring olive groves, or spending a full day on the water, there’s something for every traveler. With options suited for different budgets, activity levels, and interests, Vernazza’s tours are a fantastic way to deepen your experience in this picturesque corner of Italy.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best tours in Vernazza, each offering a unique way to explore, taste, and enjoy the area. From boat cruises to vineyard treks, these experiences put a personal stamp on your visit.
1. Vernazza: Cinque Terre Cruise with Sunset Aperetif Option
At number 1 on our list, this boat tour provides an exceptional way to see the Cinque Terre from the water. The 2 to 2.5-hour cruise includes a swimming stop in the natural park—perfect for cooling off and enjoying the clear Ligurian waters. What sets this tour apart is the upgrade option to include a sunset aperitif, which offers a relaxed way to end your day as the coastline glows with sunset hues.
Led by a knowledgeable skipper, the tour departs from Vernazza and circles around some of the most iconic villages of the Cinque Terre. The boat’s small size, limited to just 10 participants, ensures an intimate experience. The cruise is suitable for most ages, though children under 5 and those over 95 are not recommended. Guests often comment on the calm, clear waters and the chance to snorkel with masks—making it a great choice for both relaxation and adventure.
Along With the natural beauty, the sunset option offers a special ambiance that many travelers find unforgettable, especially with a glass of local wine or aperitif in hand. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, this tour delivers a serene, scenic experience from the sea.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxing, scenic, and personalized sea adventure, this boat cruise with sunset is a top pick, especially when paired with the sunset aperitif.
2. Vernazza: Panoramic Vineyard Trekking Tour w/ Wine Tasting
At number 2, this guided hike offers a distinctive way to experience the vineyard culture of the Cinque Terre. The 3-hour tour begins in Vernazza at the Cinque Sensi bar, where the guide—wearing a blue t-shirt and hat—meets you for an intimate exploration of one of the region’s most beautiful vineyards. From there, you’ll hike to panoramic viewpoints and visit the vineyard itself, gaining insight into traditional wine growing practices.
The highlight is the wine tasting session, which includes three local wines paired with regional snacks. The hike involves about 30 minutes of uphill walking, mostly on a trail with stunning vistas over the coast. This tour is ideal if you’re interested in authentic agricultural experiences and want to learn about the region’s wine heritage.
Guests praise the quality of the wines and the scenic views, with some noting that the tour’s small group size makes for a relaxed, personalized experience. It’s a good fit for active travelers who enjoy nature and want to deepen their appreciation for Ligurian wine and landscape.
Bottom Line: For those interested in combining a scenic walk with a tasting experience, this vineyard trek offers authentic insights and beautiful vistas, perfect for a half-day outing.
3. Cinque Terre: Pesto Making Class with Wine and Food Tasting
In third place, this hands-on pesto making class immerses you in a true Ligurian tradition. Starting with instructions on how to grind fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and cheese with a mortar and pestle, you’ll learn the art of making authentic pesto from scratch. Afterward, you’ll enjoy your homemade pesto paired with gnocchi (at 12:30 or 5:30) or focaccia—plus a selection of local cheeses, EVO oils, and a wine tasting.
This experience offers a delicious, practical skill that you can take home, along with a deeper appreciation for Ligurian cuisine. The class lasts about 1.5 hours and takes place in a cozy local cellar, giving you a taste of regional food culture in an intimate setting. Guests often love the opportunity to make pesto by hand and savor it with regional wines and cheeses.
Pricing is good value considering the quality of the interaction and the delicious meal that follows. The tour is particularly suited for foodies and those interested in cooking, with a focus on authentic, locally made dishes.
Bottom Line: If you want a fun, culinary experience with a lasting takeaway—plus a chance to taste some of the best local wines—this pesto class is a must.
4. Lemon tour with limoncino and wine tasting in Vernazza
Ranking fourth, this lemon-themed tour combines a scenic walk with tasting limoncino and local wines. It starts at Via Roma, where you’ll visit a recently restored lemon grove with spectacular views. The 2-hour trek offers a closer look at one of the Cinque Terre’s characteristic agricultural products.
Throughout the walk, you’ll learn about lemon cultivation and enjoy tastings of limoncino—an aromatic lemon liqueur—along with local wines and liqueurs. The path is about 30 minutes of uphill walking, but the views and the fragrant lemon trees make it worthwhile. Tour attendees mention the breathtaking vistas and the opportunity to sample regional products in a peaceful setting.
This tour offers a short but sweet experience for lovers of fresh fruit, spirits, and scenic landscapes. It’s suitable for anyone wanting a relaxed, informative outing with a focus on local flavors.
Bottom Line: For a quick, scenic, and flavorful excursion, this lemon-themed walk offers a refreshing taste of Cinque Terre’s citrus heritage.
5. Vernazza (5 Terre): Olive Grove Tour and Oil and Wine Tasting
At number 5, this olive grove tour offers an immersive experience into the lesser-known side of Cinque Terre. Starting at Via Roma, the 3.5-hour walk takes you through a beautifully restored olive grove, where two adorable ponies graze. The guide leads you through the landscape, explaining traditional olive oil production while sampling some of the region’s best olive oils and wines.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local, artisanal products and the chance to explore a trail that’s not overwhelmed by travelers. Guests rave about the delicious tasting and the peaceful scenery, making it ideal for those interested in regional agriculture and authentic food experiences.
The walk involves about an hour through scenic countryside, making it suitable for active travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and cultural insights. The visit to the olive grove and the tasting is a highlight, especially for foodies who want to go beyond the standard sightseeing.
Bottom Line: For a quieter, more personal experience centered around local olive oil and wine, this tour offers a rewarding, authentic taste of Cinque Terre.
6. From Vernazza: Cinque Terre Full-Day Boat Tour w/ snorkeling
Last but certainly not least, this full-day boat tour is the ultimate way to explore the coast at a relaxed pace. Covering Cinque Terre and Portovenere, it includes snorkeling in hidden caves, swimming in clear waters, and visiting the historic village of Portovenere. The tour lasts about 8 hours, offering plenty of time to soak in the scenery and enjoy local treats on board.
Ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy water activities, it also provides opportunities to visit the famous islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto. The itinerary includes stops for lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of the region’s cuisine.
While the reviews are not yet available, the comprehensive nature of this full-day tour makes it a top option for those looking to combine sightseeing, water sports, and cultural exploration in one trip.
Bottom Line: For a full immersion into Cinque Terre’s coastal beauty, this boat tour offers the most comprehensive experience, perfect for active explorers.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Vernazza
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If relaxing on the water appeals most, the Cinque Terre cruise with sunset is perfect. For a taste of local wine and scenery, the vineyard trek is ideal. Food lovers should consider the pesto-making class, while those wanting a shorter, scenic experience will enjoy the lemon tour.
For a deeper dive into regional agriculture, the olive grove tour offers an authentic connection to local producers. Adventurers seeking a full day of activity will find the full-day boat tour a compelling choice. Remember to book early, especially in peak season, and check the availability of small group sizes and private options for a more personalized experience.
Final Thoughts
Vernazza offers an impressive variety of tours that cater to different tastes—whether you prefer relaxing boat rides, active vineyard hikes, or hands-on cooking classes. The boat cruise with sunset aperitif and the vineyard trekking experience stand out for their stunning scenery and authentic touches. Meanwhile, the pesto-making class provides a delicious culture, and the lemon walk offers a quick, scenic flavor of Cinque Terre.
With such a rich selection, you can tailor your visit to match your interests and energy level. If you’re eager to explore underwater caves or sample regional wines, don’t wait—book your preferred tour early. These experiences promise to make your time in Vernazza truly memorable.
