Cinque Terre authorities tighten safety measures on popular trails

Cinque Terre National Park in Italy is famous for its picturesque cliffside villages linked by mountain trails. Due to the high popularity of the hiking routes, especially in spring and summer, park authorities are having to introduce additional safety measures.

Ahead of the Easter holidays, when a large influx of tourists is expected, the rules are being tightened.

One-way traffic on the Cinque Terre trails

During peak season, one-way traffic is often introduced on the busiest sections of the trails. The Sentiero Verde Azzurro route runs from Monterosso al Mare to Riomaggiore, passing through the villages of Vernazza, Corniglia, and Manarola.

On the busiest days of April, May, and June this year, the Monterosso–Vernazza stretch will only allow traffic in one direction — from Monterosso to Vernazza, the direction chosen by around 70% of tourists. Restrictions will apply from 9am to 2pm on the following dates: 19–21 and 25–27 April, 1, 29, and 31 May, and 1–2 June.

"This measure, already successfully tested in 2023 and 2024, is designed to improve conditions along the route and ensure tourist safety, preventing crowding and dangerous situations on narrow, steep sections," park representatives note.

In addition, the restrictions will help preserve the ancient stone walls lining the trail.

To visit the park, visitors must purchase a Cinque Terre Trekking Card, priced from €7.50 on regular days and from €15 during peak periods.

Footwear checks for hikers

In 2019, park authorities introduced a ban on open footwear and smooth-soled shoes, such as flip-flops. Fines for inappropriate footwear range from €50 to €2,500.

According to the park's latest guidance, hikers' footwear will be checked directly on the trails.

Visitor cap on the "Path of Love"

In 2024, the famous Via dell'Amore ("Path of Love"), linking Riomaggiore and Manarola, reopened after a long closure due to a landslide.

To prevent excessive crowding, a booking system has been introduced. The maximum number of visitors is 400 per hour, and tickets must be purchased in advance online or at park ticket offices.

The ticket costs €12.50 and includes the Cinque Terre Trekking Card and admission to Riomaggiore Castle.

Other trails — less crowded and just as scenic

Park authorities remind visitors that, besides the popular sections, there are other scenic trails, totalling more than 130 kilometres, running between the coastline and the mountain ridges.

"The park's trail network is diverse and scenic, offering plenty of less crowded alternatives with equally beautiful views," representatives of Cinque Terre National Park stress.