tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84672559930229042012024-03-05T21:50:42.189-05:00A Path To LunchOur Italian & European Experience. Exploring and Walking and Helping TravelersMike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comBlogger122125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-1052944657361905752024-02-05T11:26:00.003-05:002024-02-07T16:01:04.287-05:00Exploring Veneto: A Bassano del Grappa Day Trip - Charming Asolo<p></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"> Famous Before Rome, Asolo Is an Exquisitely Cute Mountain Borgo.</h2><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW0XiJxYGFNnGoDf_ViUn2twA5ZoGDD05tXRU8INYOF8jw2_xzCqnSytYWFVffkcnGBA2cUspwwzAApk2sFxRaK-qz4M28qDL539HeHJSG1XaMtBL2tv3Ud33A5BndIuemH-wXRByDwIhZjVPKE4LxV1yRncKWIsow6d6dDWcVguBUM5MrQcWvpv_MNLC0/s4000/Asolo%20DSCF4286.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW0XiJxYGFNnGoDf_ViUn2twA5ZoGDD05tXRU8INYOF8jw2_xzCqnSytYWFVffkcnGBA2cUspwwzAApk2sFxRaK-qz4M28qDL539HeHJSG1XaMtBL2tv3Ud33A5BndIuemH-wXRByDwIhZjVPKE4LxV1yRncKWIsow6d6dDWcVguBUM5MrQcWvpv_MNLC0/w640-h480/Asolo%20DSCF4286.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span>Arcaded Street in Asolo with shops and restaurants. </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Credit: A Path To Lunch</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>The little town of Asolo can only exist in Italy where a remote village can have a seemingly infinite history filled with famous names and unlikely events. Where the beautiful is so casually achieved that the visitor is both heartened that it exists and saddened that the visual feast is not moveable.</p><p>Nicknamed the 'City of a Hundred Horizons' for its mountain settings by no less than the poet Carducci, it's one of the 'Borghi più belli d'Italia'. Founded by pre-Roman tribes, it's mentioned by Pliny, and its citizens were joined to the Roman tribe Claudia. The history since then reads like a never-ending opera with a cast including Hungarians wrecking the town, a Synod, a Pope, the pitiless murder of local Jewish families, a hyperactive Impresario, a theater being moved to Florida, and more. So come here - any place good enough for Robert Browning, the actress Eleonora Duse, the explorer Freya Stark, and the violinist Wilma Neruda deserves your visit and ours.</p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOXdk__fcfhgw3t1NvB8qhSe4jsGcfNlBUN0Q4dgZpPHAjTmR0ieUCX6jraV5oCvXudoMZ7tbqJSy2JF8-ItWdrs5kPWnflGSMEmTnKKyaTpnk5NRZs4xQSc3ZV6yiGOBmSoKplkztPhH3uQxn6sQaqws2NwJXrAKrPV_FteNP7MEniuLRUs0ympvH2ZTc/s4000/Asolo%20DSCF4280.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOXdk__fcfhgw3t1NvB8qhSe4jsGcfNlBUN0Q4dgZpPHAjTmR0ieUCX6jraV5oCvXudoMZ7tbqJSy2JF8-ItWdrs5kPWnflGSMEmTnKKyaTpnk5NRZs4xQSc3ZV6yiGOBmSoKplkztPhH3uQxn6sQaqws2NwJXrAKrPV_FteNP7MEniuLRUs0ympvH2ZTc/w300-h400/Asolo%20DSCF4280.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span>Old houses with arcades, Asolo</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> A Path To Lunch</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>The main draw is visual - quintessential old streets, a classic piazza, cute homes beautifully and randomly arranged. </p><p>For attractions there are the ruins of an amphitheater (in the Villa Freya) and of an aqueduct, as well as a 12th century Rocca (a fortified castle on a hill).</p><p>There's also the Castle of Queen Caterina Cornaro, now home to the Eleonora Duse theatre, with its attractive inner court. The Palazzo della Ragione now houses the city's museum. The cathedral, built in 1747, has a notable altarpiece.</p><p>There are also several smaller churches to wander through, each with a treasure or two.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4LcRd2X63WHzXUVsbTegQfp5BrSjhZLeQwtpCKl7zJ2p-INDg9Esa4MzHGumt4bO3ARrjPca7LEvqZMzAudYg-3VLn0KObzu4A4dGxLSweFK4fqNQaX2YJE8Hro69mGetgt5vg1192xQ5goKSbfvJI9AidNTUH1t0madLv0HKXdRRNMQP62WLwSP3uw1_/s3835/Asolo%20DSCF4290.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2615" data-original-width="3835" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4LcRd2X63WHzXUVsbTegQfp5BrSjhZLeQwtpCKl7zJ2p-INDg9Esa4MzHGumt4bO3ARrjPca7LEvqZMzAudYg-3VLn0KObzu4A4dGxLSweFK4fqNQaX2YJE8Hro69mGetgt5vg1192xQ5goKSbfvJI9AidNTUH1t0madLv0HKXdRRNMQP62WLwSP3uw1_/w400-h272/Asolo%20DSCF4290.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Local Osteria, Asolo Credit: A Path To Lunch<br /><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><p> <b><a href="https://www.asolo.it/en/asolo-city-of-a-hundred-horizons/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Excellent Official Asolo Website</a><br /></b></p><p><b> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asolo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wikipedia Asolo Entry</a></b></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QH15_OwdqEilkJ2zuWhbrHfoCGUfaQVfC67y_c9uSiolODHbRey7MAh7b1KLzXEgdjr0uXlG4QkDZRSyTe9nNOmDMSGbsycoegi9InOXmNRYGJtx0iQDbrInZoOb08bXjzaRETvyEkqgV-I_1ATjo4slAqYr8L2ZwlhymO8I0qux0-SzjeI-O6F9-K00/s4000/Veneto%20Lion%20DSCF4294.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QH15_OwdqEilkJ2zuWhbrHfoCGUfaQVfC67y_c9uSiolODHbRey7MAh7b1KLzXEgdjr0uXlG4QkDZRSyTe9nNOmDMSGbsycoegi9InOXmNRYGJtx0iQDbrInZoOb08bXjzaRETvyEkqgV-I_1ATjo4slAqYr8L2ZwlhymO8I0qux0-SzjeI-O6F9-K00/w320-h240/Veneto%20Lion%20DSCF4294.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Asolo's Winged Lion of St. Mark. Credit: A Path To Lunch</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/al-castello-bassano-del-grappa.en.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bassano del Grappa Hotel al Castello</a> Our choice for both good walking access to the old center and easy parking.</p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/villa-stecchini.en.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bassano del Grappa - Villa Stecchino</a> Highly rated for a relaxing stay about 2 miles from the old town.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/relais-nel-castello.en.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bassano del Grappa - Relais nel Castello</a> We stayed in this nice apartment in the old town. Parking is in a free lot about 300 meters away.</p><p><a href="https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?city=-111320&aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bassano del Grappa Search All on Booking.com</a><br /></p><div>To find different lodging, we suggest and we use <a href="https://www.booking.com/index.html?aid=354603">Booking.com</a> in Italy because of verified reviews, good search filters with maps, and a large selection of hotels, apartments, B&B's, and agroturismo locations.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We must tell you the obvious - the commercial links provided might earn us a small commission on a purchase. That affiliation doesn't affect the prices offered.</div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.com31011 Asolo, Province of Treviso, Italy45.799258599999987 11.914110317.489024763821142 -23.2421397 74.10949243617884 47.070360300000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-41412407459387349482024-02-05T11:13:00.005-05:002024-02-09T09:43:54.987-05:00Exploring Veneto: A Bassano del Grappa Day Trip - A Palladio Villa<p> <b style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Visit a 1560 Renaissance Delight by Palladio & Veronese</span></b></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizJED6pnvo90b2itSHa5EeUqs-dgt10OSS2WvOVX88vlkCvQJZng-Z3Cz-ss_qZSBtjDHrWgeuwXQLKGAI9DSyIajecX1uKpKJJFG05EKdhhXpsnGpuHPbVz3KoG4B4Kdl-ez3BvcwY0c5_OxGql59vzRinZQqbPFBm0N_MMoQ0wAm7etG7x0wVtqpyRl/s3924/Bassano%20Villa%20May%202019%20DSCF4278.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Palladio's Villa Maser (Villa Barbaro) 1560" border="0" data-original-height="2943" data-original-width="3924" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizJED6pnvo90b2itSHa5EeUqs-dgt10OSS2WvOVX88vlkCvQJZng-Z3Cz-ss_qZSBtjDHrWgeuwXQLKGAI9DSyIajecX1uKpKJJFG05EKdhhXpsnGpuHPbVz3KoG4B4Kdl-ez3BvcwY0c5_OxGql59vzRinZQqbPFBm0N_MMoQ0wAm7etG7x0wVtqpyRl/w640-h480/Bassano%20Villa%20May%202019%20DSCF4278.JPG" title="Palladio's Villa Maser (Villa Barbaro) 1560" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palladio's Villa Maser (Villa Barbaro) from 1560. Veronese frescoes enhance the Piano Nobile.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>Palladio's Villa Maser - also known as Villa Barbaro - is an easy 30 minute drive from Bassano del Grappa. It was designed and built by the Italian Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio in 1560, with frescos by Paolo Veronese and sculptures by Alessandro Vittoria. The original owners were those name-droppers Daniele Barbaro, Patriarch of Aquileia and ambassador to Queen Elizabeth I of England and his brother Marcantonio, an ambassador to King Charles IX of France. The villa was added to the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1996.<div><br /></div><div>The visitor can tour inside, visit most of the grounds and see some support buildings. The interior is enchanting for the creation of atmosphere through the use of light, proportion, and art - expressed over and over again as you move through the building. Palladio seldom involved himself with planning gardens but outside, amidst other beauties, there's a classical garden feature, a nymphaeum, an arching architectural structure framing a natural spring. We also enjoyed a wooded walk behind the main building to see an interesting collection of evocative old carriages - all the better to imagine the courtly past.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX3tzU-NmCpHY9gP5DawSeg-kah6hPclScdydsjmWnaDhIFSMNSAhQVE48BAhIYDnIFjqbx2J1q_Q5Yg1UKnW-TjYd_cIE9SO8D6xPEamrZVs0r-oO3Ad7y3uGlVAVCxX2MQpsqCFkaG7zhhAyxfT79OreH8tnFlXcRzo7yJvtT-GWD6h1laVxrG4qsCoj/s5212/Bassano%20Villa%20May%202019%20IMG_2327.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Beautiful Italian villa with climbing vines." border="0" data-original-height="3306" data-original-width="5212" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX3tzU-NmCpHY9gP5DawSeg-kah6hPclScdydsjmWnaDhIFSMNSAhQVE48BAhIYDnIFjqbx2J1q_Q5Yg1UKnW-TjYd_cIE9SO8D6xPEamrZVs0r-oO3Ad7y3uGlVAVCxX2MQpsqCFkaG7zhhAyxfT79OreH8tnFlXcRzo7yJvtT-GWD6h1laVxrG4qsCoj/w640-h406/Bassano%20Villa%20May%202019%20IMG_2327.JPG" title="Beautiful Italian villa with climbing vines." width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Workers' quarters on the grounds. Taken in May at Palladio's Villa Maser.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div> </div><div><b style="font-size: large;"><u>Visit Info</u></b></div><div>Visitable from April-October, Tues.- Sun. and with additional special openings through the year.</div><div><br /></div><b><a href="https://www.villadimaser.it/?lang=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Villa Maser Official Site</a> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villa_Barbaro" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wikipedia: Villa Maser</a></b> <u>Address:</u> Villa di Maser, Via Cornuda 7, Maser TV <div><br /><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><u>Bassano del Grappa Accommodations</u></b></span></div><div><a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/al-castello-bassano-del-grappa.en.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bassano del Grappa Hotel al Castello</a> Our choice for both good walking access to the old center and easy parking.</div><div><p><a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/villa-stecchini.en.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bassano del Grappa - Villa Stecchino</a> Highly rated for a relaxing stay about 2 miles from the old town.<br /></p><p><a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/relais-nel-castello.en.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bassano del Grappa - Relais nel Castello</a> We stayed in this nice apartment in the old town. Parking is in a free lot about 300 meters away.</p><p><a href="https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?city=-111320&aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bassano del Grappa Search All on Booking.com</a><br /></p><div>To find different lodging, we suggest and we use <a href="https://www.booking.com/index.html?aid=354603">Booking.com</a> in Italy because of verified reviews, good search filters with maps, and a large selection of hotels, apartments, B&B's, and agriturismi locations.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We must tell you the obvious - the commercial links provided might earn us a small commission on a purchase. That affiliation doesn't affect the prices offered.</div></div>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.com31010 Maser, Province of Treviso, Italy45.809469 11.975224717.499235163821155 -23.1810253 74.119702836178845 47.1314747tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-57220151144056837262020-05-12T14:43:00.000-04:002020-06-13T07:22:53.923-04:00Get a Refund for a Cancelled Flight Ticket - Not Just a Voucher. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;">How to Win a Credit Card Chargeback Dispute. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Complete Details & Sample Letter for a Refund on a Non-Refundable Ticket, Seat & Baggage Charges. </span></h3>
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Should I Accept a Voucher for Future Flights? Is it Too Late for a Refund on a Flight Cancelled Due to Covid-19?</h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulYoK9bDDjNVnKxzcMaEimWyRUooTOdfuDzmJT5ocouG1sS3KS5dVnIePK7b047GLTkcc8sixaGdqdJDjbfl1S3WBYzqwS6pmx8Fdgc3A7lZrHCBWlSkOuX1xrkYTF26vmmPb9zAqHmvd/s1600/Flickr+Cory+Hatchel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Refund by credit card chargeback dispute for cancelled flight" border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulYoK9bDDjNVnKxzcMaEimWyRUooTOdfuDzmJT5ocouG1sS3KS5dVnIePK7b047GLTkcc8sixaGdqdJDjbfl1S3WBYzqwS6pmx8Fdgc3A7lZrHCBWlSkOuX1xrkYTF26vmmPb9zAqHmvd/s640/Flickr+Cory+Hatchel.jpg" title="Refund by credit card chargeback dispute for cancelled flight" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "droid sans" , sans-serif; text-indent: -40px;">Seinfeld: "You see, you know how to 'take' the reservation, you just don't know how to 'hold' the reservation. <br>And that's really the most important part of the reservation: the holding. Anybody can just take them."</span></span></td></tr>
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Fed up with an airline like Delta, Air Canada, Jet Blue, Southwest, Lufthansa or TAP Air Portugal for refusing to give you a refund? This article gives specific details on how you can get a refund on a non-refundable airline ticket after the flight was canceled - even those caused by the Covid-19 virus epidemic. It is done by using your legal right to <u>dispute the credit card charges</u> - also known as a chargeback of the credit card charges. It doesn't matter if it's Chase, Capital One, or Bank of America, they all <u>must</u> help you.<br>
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Do <u>not</u> accept a voucher for future flights. Some reasons why: ✦You are entitled to a refund, dammit. ✦The airline will make you agree that the voucher is a substitute for a refund, limiting your future rights. ✦The voucher will have a time limit and possibly fees and added conditions. ✦The airline may not be in business or offer the same destinations or class of service when you want to use it. ✦Why trust an entity that won't adhere to it's own Terms of Carriage? Fool me once....<br>
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Our case involved a Visa credit card from a US bank and began with a US to EU flight. However since the procedures and the governing rules are based on credit card 'Core Rules', this information will be very useful for <u>other jurisdictions</u>, for <u>Mastercard & American Express</u>, and for <u>other types of credit card disputes</u>.<br>
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Be aware - disputing a credit card charge is not an exact science - the card issuers have a lot of latitude in this process. Our approach might not be best for you and the rules may change, so do additional research to maximize your chances. Note: When we say <b>document</b> some action, we mean getting something factual to prove your point- like an email printout, a screenshot of a relevant web page, a letter, or even your detailed notes with specific dates and times and the names of the person you spoke with.<br>
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Below we give the important <u>key points</u> to make and to document in disputing a credit card charge, also known as a chargeback of a credit card purchase. At the end of the article, to get you started there's a notated <u>sample letter</u> adapted from a letter we used with success, though keep in mind there are no guarantees when used with a different credit card company or with different circumstances.<br>
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The chain of logic that we believe will lock in your right to a chargeback follows. Your claim will be strongest if you document each point. Then we give additional informational comments and the sample letter.<br>
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</div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2020/05/get-refund-for-cancelled-flight-ticket.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-32822985125077179512020-03-12T12:01:00.000-04:002020-03-15T09:29:49.060-04:00A New Plague Returns to A Hilltop Town in Italy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Extraordinary Measures in a Historic Ligurian Town. </b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">After 307 years the town's patron saint is asked - again - for help.</span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0cb4XyINv6-DZYDcYiiV9XoXhhiGEj7yTuQ-Xv49bcTp-ro7cxjSEWRg3okvKn_YM_33D-1r3c6Lq6lK5slxU3xB3BcLDd6k2fEOuTGCGDWyuShem7uKIPg6i5lzfPe7s4-WDeRrr0Pw/s1600/28+April+2013+Ameglia+Sarzana+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ameglia a Hill town in Liguria, Italy" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0cb4XyINv6-DZYDcYiiV9XoXhhiGEj7yTuQ-Xv49bcTp-ro7cxjSEWRg3okvKn_YM_33D-1r3c6Lq6lK5slxU3xB3BcLDd6k2fEOuTGCGDWyuShem7uKIPg6i5lzfPe7s4-WDeRrr0Pw/s640/28+April+2013+Ameglia+Sarzana+011.JPG" title="Ameglia a Hill town in Liguria, Italy" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Historic Ameglia - hill town of Liguria - ruled in turn by Ligurians, Romans, Byzantines, Franks, Lombards, Genovese & more. </td></tr>
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When Covid-19 hits your city, will you be 'warmly invited' to stay home? A daily life news item from the 1,000+ year old town of Ameglia (Liguria) now in lockdown from the threat of Coronavirus.<br />
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Municipality of Ameglia. Commercial entities, civil protection, and firefighters have collectively begun the start-up 'Vespa' Dotevè' to provide a grocery delivery service in the municipal area of Ameglia, a service aimed at the elderly and people in conditions of fragility. Below are the participating businesses with their phone numbers. "It will be possible to turn to the merchant and the Civil Protection will act as a carrier between the business and your home," explained Mayor Andrea De Ranieri, who warmly invited all the Amelese citizens to stay at home.<br />
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This morning the first civil complaints were also filed in the Ameglia municipality for those who left their abode without a valid reason: "Townspeople just can't complete a downloaded self-certification and go wherever they want - said the mayor on Facebook - You have to stay home! Citizens can move only for work, necessity, health. At the time of a police check they will make you declare and sign why you are moving. Once this is done, the patrol checks (for example by calling the company, calling your doctor, etc.). If they discover that your declared purpose is not true, you get two civil citations: one for the violation of the coronavirus public health ordinance (art. 650 CP) and the other for false declarations (art. 495 CP). I make this clarification because many think that there are no controls or that self authorization is enough, it is not so. Shop only in your own town and for essential items! Shop for need, not shopping for pleasure! One person per family. If you are 3 in the car and you are going shopping, you'll be cited. "<br />
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Meanwhile, the heraldic flag of the municipality was brought to the ancient parish church in the center of Ameglia. "I renewed the vows of the ancients and asked our patron San Pasquale to keep us from contagion (the plague) again as in 1713, for that is why we celebrate him every May 17." explained the mayor.<br />
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Articolo originale qui: <b><a href="http://www.cittadellaspezia.com/Sarzana-Val-di-Magra/Attualita/Ameglia-spesa-a-domicilio-con-Protezione-civile-Antincendio-e-Doteve-307415.aspx" target="_blank">Citta della Spezia: Spesa a Domicilio</a></b><br />
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<u>Go Fund Me</u> page to help the Red Cross volunteers: <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/croce-rossa-ameglia-aiutami-ad-aiutare?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link-tip&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet" target="_blank"><b>Croce Rosso Ameglia</b></a><br />
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Google translation, edited for clarity.<br />
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Photo copyright by Mike Mazzaschi / apathtolunch.com Non-commercial use allowed with attribution.<br />
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Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-66768739386848452862019-10-07T17:12:00.004-04:002021-10-30T08:38:12.583-04:00Cinque Terre's Path of Love is Reopening!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Italy's Famous Path - The Via Amore - Will Reopen in 2024.</h2>
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A Trail Especially Popular With Lovers, Families, Tourists with Mobility Issues. </h3>
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El Camino del Amor Promenade de l'Amour Weg der Liebe 爱的方式 愛の道 путь любви</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FH1I_QEXzSbLt9Cbyx2wEzRWjT-tegikP33qnoFvctXXtIIM3I9ixeW8zZZ5JM3T3oJQxWT1JogQBUCDDT7dxvtBC9K1LF0UsGlzOORE91es3OcBTByfmv3EmBHOLE26sNr4UDyzZVWr/s1600/Davide+Bozzo+Wikimedia.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Via dell'Amore and the Cinque Terre coast viewed toward Riomaggiore" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FH1I_QEXzSbLt9Cbyx2wEzRWjT-tegikP33qnoFvctXXtIIM3I9ixeW8zZZ5JM3T3oJQxWT1JogQBUCDDT7dxvtBC9K1LF0UsGlzOORE91es3OcBTByfmv3EmBHOLE26sNr4UDyzZVWr/s640/Davide+Bozzo+Wikimedia.jpg" title="Via dell'Amore and the Cinque Terre coast viewed toward Riomaggiore"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Via dell'Amore & the Cinque Terre coast viewed toward Riomaggiore. Reopening in 2023 or 2024. CC by Davide Bozzo.</span></td></tr>
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Is the Via Amore open? Is the Via dell'Amore closed? When will the Via Amore reopen? Although the Covid-19 pandemic has delayed it again, the new plan (10/2021) is to reopen in 2024. But why has it been closed so long? Read on, love.<br>
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The appeal is immediate to the Cinque Terre attraction called <b>Via dell'Amore</b> (or <b>Via Amore)</b> since it translates so romantically to <b>The Love Trail</b>, <b>The Lovers Walk</b> or <b>The Way of Love. </b> It's perhaps the most famous trail in Italy and known throughout the world - even though the distance is only one kilometer long and can easily be walked in 30 minutes. This great walkway is one of the reasons the Cinque Terre are a World Heritage Site.<br>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b> Essential Stories</b> for a good Cinque Terre visit:</span><br>
<b style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" target="_blank">Every Answer You Need for Your Cinque Terre Trip</a></span></b><br>
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/03/cinque-terre-16-tips-for-avoiding-crowds.html" style="text-decoration-line: underline;" target="_blank">Cinque Terre - 16 Tips for Avoiding the Crowds</a></span></b><br>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/06/complete-cinque-terre-portovenere-la.html" target="_blank">Complete Cinque Terre Ferry Schedules</a></b><b><br></b><b> See Also:</b> ❇<b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/p/area-infolinks.html" target="_blank">Our Cinque Terre Guide</a></b></span><br>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span title="">The Via dell'Amore is the pedestrian path connecting the Cinque Terre villages of Riomaggiore and Manarola. It winds across the rocky face of steep seaside hills </span>and provides panoramic views of the fabulous Cinque Terre coastline. It rises to an altitude of as much as 750 feet above the sea though it's not a steep or strenuous hike.<span title=""> Unfortunately, it has been closed since 2012 due to the risk of landslides.</span> </span><br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOu72I7f6ZUbcPs3qJQmzZ5anj_zbQQStZ8tA2-8eTcQEA28OAHGnX7U0GCEdTpuqait3pHlgcuyquUE-mfKTW-rgEW95bgGjxsDxyTUPxP6jkAnIovzPXTxVWLCNN7cgEXVytnSvXJGC/s1600/Flkr+Daniel+Stockman+8670689216_69429d470d_k.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The 'Lovers' statue Cinque Terre on The Lovers Walk" border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOu72I7f6ZUbcPs3qJQmzZ5anj_zbQQStZ8tA2-8eTcQEA28OAHGnX7U0GCEdTpuqait3pHlgcuyquUE-mfKTW-rgEW95bgGjxsDxyTUPxP6jkAnIovzPXTxVWLCNN7cgEXVytnSvXJGC/s320/Flkr+Daniel+Stockman+8670689216_69429d470d_k.jpg" title="The 'Lovers' statue Cinque Terre on The Lovers Walk" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'Lovers' symbol along The Lovers Walk with padlocks.<br>
Via dell'Amore was an early victim of the viral lock mania.<br>
CC by Daniel Stockman</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Origins and Closures. </b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The walkway began as part of the railway tunnel construction in 1926-1928. It provided access for workers and materials. The explosives used in its construction were also stored along the path - away from the villages in what is now the Bar dell'Amore. Subsequently, the walkway provided the perfect setting for young Italian couples who sought privacy from the prying eyes of a small village - often leaving memorializing graffiti as proof of their fidelity. In time a</span><span style="color: #2d2d2d; font-family: inherit;"> journalist who noticed all the amorous graffiti along the path coined the trail’s now-established name, Via dell’Amore.</span><br>
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</div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/10/the-via-dellamore-is-reopening.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-609156684563132662019-05-05T07:26:00.000-04:002020-01-25T17:44:41.089-05:00A Lunch Visit to Chiavari - Our Favorite Ligurian City<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Beautiful and Sophisticated - Visit Chiavari to Appreciate Liguria. </h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Try Ligurian Specialties at Osteria Luchin - a Chiavari Insitution Since 1907.</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLE28guvRfOFLf5uu0gQHIVEDD1NcT_QZ3a6MU0m20HG_vv6Oe8j7V1mxWYeMUb72MuidjLhEFu0uhClB-RmQG6cFh9reKW65zdi5m-nm0Qt7VjfhAE6t5ncIsm7rnaesH5R8-V5rN1t4M/s1600/IMG_2283c+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Streets with colorful buildings & arcades in Chiavari, Liguria" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLE28guvRfOFLf5uu0gQHIVEDD1NcT_QZ3a6MU0m20HG_vv6Oe8j7V1mxWYeMUb72MuidjLhEFu0uhClB-RmQG6cFh9reKW65zdi5m-nm0Qt7VjfhAE6t5ncIsm7rnaesH5R8-V5rN1t4M/s640/IMG_2283c+%25282%2529.jpg" title="Streets with colorful buildings & arcades in Chiavari, Liguria" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Behind Piazza Mazzini, the streets become smaller as do the juxtapositions. These card players filled the street with shouts.</td></tr>
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Chiavari couldn't be more peaceful. Although it was once a border city with mighty walls to protect against incursions by rivals such as Lavagna just across the Entella river, today it is unwalled and relaxed. This part of Liguria has many slate quarries so a dark stone predominates, creating a comforting urban gravitas to complement the traditional warm Ligurian colors. Most of the beautiful streets have arcades supported on the street side by squat columns of diverse designs, and in the shadows of the arcades are specialty shops with elaborate old woodwork, bright pastry stores with mouth-watering window displays, and busy cafes with movie-set perfect patrons. On a recent Saturday morning the streets were filled with family after family shopping and doing errands, trailed by socializing pre-teens.<br>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4cBvk3gKB4t5gVzPbL_2CxWbn0eusm55B8oHCaWjlt3FccwsREdCAbXk2TyGXs_63cGBJHlukNK1u0OHEdU2PsgxEDTmQAQ0RIKCc8de7smOK-8D9_YjDLfpWekH2r1-Keov4jkEs15V/s1600/IMG_2266c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mazzini speaks still on Piazza Mazzini in Chiavari, Liguria." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="924" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4cBvk3gKB4t5gVzPbL_2CxWbn0eusm55B8oHCaWjlt3FccwsREdCAbXk2TyGXs_63cGBJHlukNK1u0OHEdU2PsgxEDTmQAQ0RIKCc8de7smOK-8D9_YjDLfpWekH2r1-Keov4jkEs15V/s400/IMG_2266c.jpg" title="Mazzini speaks still on Piazza Mazzini in Chiavari, Liguria." width="230"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mazzini speaks still in Chiavari, Liguria.</td></tr>
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On the central Piazza Mazzini, the outdoor market was in full swing, as it is every morning. The huge assortment of colorful vegetables took up most of the space, but the cheese stands did their best to match the array, and the truck with roast meats added that great aroma to the market vibe.<br>
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The buildings around the piazza are a triumph of Ligurian variety. A bold gold building with dramatic window surrounds is next to a centuries old stained stucco building in need of attention, next to a vivid display of trompe l'oeil on a rose colored field..<br>
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On the west side is the white mass of the Palazzo di Giustizia. It's tempting to assume it's of ancient medieval origin, but it's from only 1886 in a style called Tuscan Gothic, which we presume is a disguised Italian slur.<br>
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A little further west towards the ocean is the Basilica cathedral of Nostra Signora dell'Orto. A very large church, it's not old by Italian measure but pretty interesting. It's origin is the 17th century, but it was refashioned in 1907. This influence provided an art nouveau feeling in the graceful golden embellishment inside. In one chapel near the alter, there are works by Anton Maria Maragliano of Genoa, one of Liguria's most famous and original sculptors who worked wood in a style all his own.<br>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYZKrEzygBUxOq1FbhNigJrTIF1unNjT53D2yBqVaOXiJJ2o0A9eP2jc4nqH8laLARNQUAVREx8UmVE2nsOShSKQJKaCVRDwBzBc0RSR6f08Q2sokgaLAICUudlsqEIJWh_X9_QamF7pF/s1600/IMG_2264c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Trompe l'oeil building facade on Piazza Mazzini in Chiavari, Liguria" border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYZKrEzygBUxOq1FbhNigJrTIF1unNjT53D2yBqVaOXiJJ2o0A9eP2jc4nqH8laLARNQUAVREx8UmVE2nsOShSKQJKaCVRDwBzBc0RSR6f08Q2sokgaLAICUudlsqEIJWh_X9_QamF7pF/s640/IMG_2264c.jpg" title="Trompe l'oeil building facade on Piazza Mazzini in Chiavari, Liguria" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trompe l'oeil building facade on Piazza Mazzini in Chiavari, where the building diversity magically creates a unified city.</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpCMKzRY80055gv9shi5lq0TOY5aqb51zWZNRzQ68xGpH4kdBaYAgzmRcUjZ7jweqsBcHycqiqnCZzyBIFdVpScvJ4fej_Dt4IHJx1Pog6apEIv_TpkFLA9vFxFDIaMjQ39XltoIy4n5w/s1600/IMG_2293c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Osteria Luchin in Chiavari, Liguria." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpCMKzRY80055gv9shi5lq0TOY5aqb51zWZNRzQ68xGpH4kdBaYAgzmRcUjZ7jweqsBcHycqiqnCZzyBIFdVpScvJ4fej_Dt4IHJx1Pog6apEIv_TpkFLA9vFxFDIaMjQ39XltoIy4n5w/s320/IMG_2293c.jpg" title="Osteria Luchin in Chiavari, Liguria." width="213"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Osteria Luchin in Chiavari, Liguria.</td></tr>
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When the streets mysteriously become less busy, it means Italy is calling you to lunch. We once again chose a Chiavari institution with good food and an irresistible panache. <b>Osteria Luchin</b> was founded in 1907 and it's still going strong. It's popular because there's something for everyone, a really good variety, all at an affordable rate. Passing through the doors will feel like passing back through time. It's busy and bustling with long tables used family style.<br>
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<u>Menu Notes</u>: many of the daily unique dishes are listed on chalk boards outside, and there's no information inside, so either have a look before you go in, or just wander back out and take your time. Also. while they have an English language menu, it's not quite the same as the Italian menu, so if you can muddle through in Italian you'll have more choice.<br>
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The farinata oven is one of the reasons that Luchin is famous - the
chickpea pancake is baked in very heavy pans so that the top gets
brown and crispy while the bottom stays creamy and smooth. We sat near the oven and could watch the whole thing - it's an art to
balance the pan, shift it, keep the fire just right. Lots of people got
the farinata as an appetizer, it looked wonderful.<br>
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</div></div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/05/a-lunch-visit-to-chiavari-our-favorite.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-46709505326284307012019-03-22T15:51:00.012-04:002024-02-02T12:59:28.012-05:00Italian City & Town Guidebooks Reviewed 2024 - Rome, Florence, Venice & More. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
What are the Best Travel Guidebooks for Italian Cities & Towns? </h2>
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Which Guidebook is Better? Rick Steves, Lonely Planet, DK Eyewitness or Frommer? </h3>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEnxKSbFtIC96GKkMPTykFCWe1mK1YBg3wx0MU61oxuHv4PYmOTBcnDJf6ki6lEBkVI5GMdOIBvK-ENgeTEajnn__JTCVIFbJqpsOhwPzKTWx9T-mzINkGHXmlQAseG4Z1WXaxUpQ_PdY9/s1600/IMG_2022.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Old Italy Guidebook, The Spell of Southern Shores Caroline Atwater Mason, 1914." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1168" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEnxKSbFtIC96GKkMPTykFCWe1mK1YBg3wx0MU61oxuHv4PYmOTBcnDJf6ki6lEBkVI5GMdOIBvK-ENgeTEajnn__JTCVIFbJqpsOhwPzKTWx9T-mzINkGHXmlQAseG4Z1WXaxUpQ_PdY9/s320/IMG_2022.JPG" title="Old Italy Guidebook, The Spell of Southern Shores Caroline Atwater Mason, 1914." width="233"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1914 Ms. Mason began in Liguria and visited<br>
<span style="text-align: right;">Portofino: 'the quaintest fishing village under</span><br>
<span style="text-align: right;">the sky'.Cinque Terre was not yet famous.</span></span></td></tr>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
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</span><div>
</div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Let's start off on the right foot: there are no best travel guidebooks. All have strengths and weaknesses, and all travelers have different approaches and needs. We have recently finished our independent review of almost all the popular Italy travel guidebooks. We give you our recommendation along with enough description help you decide if it fits your needs.</span></h4><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7f6000; text-align: center;"> ⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥</span></span></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">BEST FOR A PANDEMIC?</h4><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">We highly recommend the DK Eyewitness Travel Guides. The rich illustrations and deeper explanations provide the best possible distant enjoyment. </span></h4><div><span><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide <u>Italy</u></b></span></div><div><b> </b>++<a href="https://amzn.to/3pIGIlH" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a><b> +</b><b><a href="https://amzn.to/2LH1L3Y" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a></b></div><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide <u>Florence & Tuscany</u> </b></span></div><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b> </b><b>++</b><b style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3FPb9wc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a></b> +<b style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2PzVxDY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a></b></span></div><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br></span></div><div><span><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide</b><b style="font-weight: normal;"> </b><b><u>Rome</u></b><b style="font-weight: normal;"> </b></span></div><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"> ++<b style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://amzn.to/32B0c3g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a></b> +<span><a href="https://amzn.to/36fxwca" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a></span></span></div><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br></span></div><div><span><div style="font-weight: normal;"><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide <u>Venice and the Veneto</u></b></div><div><span><b style="font-weight: normal;"> ++</b><a href="https://amzn.to/2PE8xsu" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration-line: underline;" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a> </span>+<span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://amzn.to/344i696" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a> </span></div></span></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥</div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br>We cover most every guide you might want in three articles:</span><br>
<br>
<u>⬥Guidebooks for Italian Cities & Towns</u><span style="font-weight: normal;"> (This Article)</span><br>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">⬩Rome ⬩Florence ⬩Venice ⬩Cinque Terre ⬩Naples</span><br>
<br>
<u><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/best-italy-guidebooks-2019-reviewed.html" target="_blank">⬥Guidebooks for Italy</a></u><span style="font-weight: normal;"> (click)</span><br>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> ⬩All of Italy ⬩Best of Italy ⬩Southern Italy</span><br>
+<span style="font-weight: normal;"> Italy Guidebook Series - The Publishers Reviewed</span><br>
<span style="font-weight: 400;"> ⬩Rick Steves ⬩Lonely Planet ⬩Rough Guides</span><br style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> ⬩DK Eyewitness ⬩Fodor's ⬩Frommer</span><br>
<span style="font-weight: 400;"><br></span>
<u><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/guidebooks-for-italys-regions-reviewed.html" target="_blank">⬥Guidebooks for Italian Regions</a></u><span style="font-weight: normal;"> (click)</span><br>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> ⬩Amalfi Coast ⬩Cinque Terre ⬩Italian Lakes ⬩Liguria, ⬩Puglia ⬩Sardinia ⬩Sicily ⬩Tuscany</span></h4>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"></span><br>
</div></div></div></div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/italian-city-town-guidebooks-reviewed.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-70116714504395064662019-03-22T15:50:00.011-04:002024-02-02T12:59:49.352-05:00 Guidebooks for Italy's Regions Reviewed 2024 - Cinque Terre, Tuscany, Sicily & More. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on">
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
What are the Best Travel Guidebooks for Italian Regions?</h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Which Guidebook is Better for Driving Through Tuscany or the Italian Lakes? </h3>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2QWwtA2rnL4O79QFBxlw9SGbJa47Mclbi_AFAy3X3jWcFjSVyWXNfzDOIaUkl8uj58QrMyCXJuQKRiqc9_FGRnDTjIcF5DDjZliZ6QfjoeZIsadUrF1jhaWxfDcyVjfnI0AWFAbEz7Dvj/s1600/IMG_2022.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Early Italy Guidebook 'The Spell of Southern Shores' 1914" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1168" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2QWwtA2rnL4O79QFBxlw9SGbJa47Mclbi_AFAy3X3jWcFjSVyWXNfzDOIaUkl8uj58QrMyCXJuQKRiqc9_FGRnDTjIcF5DDjZliZ6QfjoeZIsadUrF1jhaWxfDcyVjfnI0AWFAbEz7Dvj/s320/IMG_2022.JPG" title="Early Italy Guidebook 'The Spell of Southern Shores' 1914" width="233"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1914 Ms. Mason began in Liguria and visited<br>
Portofino: 'the quaintest fishing village under<br>
the sky'.Cinque Terre was not yet famous.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
Let's start off on the right foot: there are no best travel guidebooks. All have strengths and weaknesses, and all travelers have different approaches and needs. We have recently finished our independent review of almost all the popular Italy travel guidebooks. We give you our recommendation along with enough description help you decide if it fits your needs.</div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><div><span><span style="color: #7f6000; text-align: center;"> ⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥</span></span></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">BEST FOR A PANDEMIC?</h4><h4><span style="font-weight: normal;">We highly recommend the DK Eyewitness Travel Guides. The rich illustrations and deeper explanations provide the best possible vicarious enjoyment.</span></h4><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><div><span><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide <u>Italy</u></b></span></div><div><b> </b>++<a href="https://amzn.to/3pIGIlH" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a><b> +</b><b><a href="https://amzn.to/2LH1L3Y" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a></b></div><div><span><br></span></div><div><span><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide <u>Florence & Tuscany</u> </b></span></div><div><span><b> </b><b>++</b><b style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3FPb9wc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a></b> +<b style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2PzVxDY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a></b></span></div><div><span><br></span></div><div><span><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide</b><span> </span><b><u>Rome</u></b><span> </span></span></div><div><span> ++<b style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://amzn.to/32B0c3g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a></b> +<span><a href="https://amzn.to/36fxwca" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a></span></span></div><div><span><br></span></div><div><span><div><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide <u>Venice and the Veneto</u></b></div></span></div><div><span><span> ++</span><a href="https://amzn.to/2PE8xsu" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a> </span>+<span><a href="https://amzn.to/344i696" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a> </span> </div></span></div><h4><div style="text-align: center;">⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥</div></h4>
<br>
We cover everything you need in three articles:<br>
<br>
<b>⬥Guidebooks for Italian Regions</b> (This Article)<br>
⬩Amalfi Coast ⬩Cinque Terre ⬩Italian Lakes ⬩Liguria, ⬩Puglia ⬩Sardinia ⬩Sicily ⬩Tuscany<br>
<br>
<b><u><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/italian-city-town-guidebooks-reviewed.html" target="_blank">⬥Guidebooks for Italian Cities & Towns</a></u></b> (click)<br>
⬩Rome ⬩Florence ⬩Venice ⬩Cinque Terre ⬩Naples<br>
<br>
<a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/best-italy-guidebooks-2019-reviewed.html"><b>⬥Guidebooks for Italy</b></a> (click)<br>
⬩All of Italy ⬩Best of Italy ⬩Southern Italy</div>
<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on">
+Publishers of Italy Guidebook Series Reviewed<br>
⬩Rick Steves ⬩Lonely Planet ⬩Rough Guides</div>
<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on">
⬩DK Eyewitness ⬩Fodor's ⬩Frommer's<br>
<br>
</div></div></div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/guidebooks-for-italys-regions-reviewed.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-62212398129135676032019-03-14T12:00:00.010-04:002024-02-02T13:00:08.960-05:00Best Italy Guidebooks 2024 Reviewed - Advice on Choosing & Planning. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
What's the Top Italy Travel Guidebook for<span style="font-size: large;"> Rome, Florence & Venice? </span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Which Is Recommended? Rick Steves Italy guidebook or Lonely Planet Italy guidebook? </h3>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2QWwtA2rnL4O79QFBxlw9SGbJa47Mclbi_AFAy3X3jWcFjSVyWXNfzDOIaUkl8uj58QrMyCXJuQKRiqc9_FGRnDTjIcF5DDjZliZ6QfjoeZIsadUrF1jhaWxfDcyVjfnI0AWFAbEz7Dvj/s1600/IMG_2022.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Early Italy Guidebook 'The Spell of Southern Shores' 1914" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1168" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2QWwtA2rnL4O79QFBxlw9SGbJa47Mclbi_AFAy3X3jWcFjSVyWXNfzDOIaUkl8uj58QrMyCXJuQKRiqc9_FGRnDTjIcF5DDjZliZ6QfjoeZIsadUrF1jhaWxfDcyVjfnI0AWFAbEz7Dvj/s320/IMG_2022.JPG" title="Early Italy Guidebook 'The Spell of Southern Shores' 1914" width="233"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1914 Ms. Mason began in Liguria and visited<br>
Portofino: 'the quaintest fishing village under<br>
the sky'.Cinque Terre was not yet famous.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on">
Let's start off on the right foot: there are no best travel guidebooks. All have strengths and weaknesses, and all travelers have different approaches and needs. We have recently completed our independent review of almost all the popular Italy travel guidebooks. We give you our recommendation along with enough description help you decide if it fits your needs.</div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><div><span><span style="color: #7f6000; text-align: center;"> ⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥</span></span></div><h4 style="text-align: center;">BEST FOR A PANDEMIC?</h4><h4><span style="font-weight: normal;">We highly recommend the DK Eyewitness Travel Guides. The rich illustrations and deeper explanations provide the best possible vicarious enjoyment.</span></h4><div><span style="font-weight: normal;"><div><span><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide <u>Italy</u></b></span></div><div><b> </b>++<a href="https://amzn.to/3pIGIlH" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a><b> +</b><b><a href="https://amzn.to/2LH1L3Y" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a></b></div><div><span><br></span></div><div><span><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide <u>Florence & Tuscany</u> </b></span></div><div><span><b> </b><b>++</b><b style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3FPb9wc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a></b> +<b style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2PzVxDY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a></b></span></div><div><span><br></span></div><div><span><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide</b><span> </span><b><u>Rome</u></b><span> </span></span></div><div><span> ++<b style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://amzn.to/32B0c3g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a></b> +<span><a href="https://amzn.to/36fxwca" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a></span></span></div><div><span><br></span></div><div><span><div><b>DK Eyewitness Travel Guide <u>Venice and the Veneto</u></b></div><div><span><span> ++</span><a href="https://amzn.to/2PE8xsu" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a> </span>+<span><a href="https://amzn.to/344i696" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a> </span></div></span></div></span></div><h4><div style="text-align: center;">⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥</div></h4>
We cover everything you need in three articles:<br>
<br>
<a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/best-italy-guidebooks-2019-reviewed.html"><b>⬥Guidebooks for Italy</b></a> (This Article)<br>
⬩All of Italy ⬩Best of Italy ⬩Southern Italy</div>
<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on">
+Publishers of Italy Guidebook Series Reviewed<br>
⬩Rick Steves ⬩Lonely Planet ⬩Rough Guides</div>
<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on">
⬩DK Eyewitness ⬩Fodor's ⬩Frommer's<br>
<br>
<b><u><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/italian-city-town-guidebooks-reviewed.html" target="_blank">⬥Guidebooks for Italian Cities & Towns</a></u></b> (Click)<br>
⬩Rome ⬩Florence ⬩Venice ⬩Cinque Terre ⬩Naples<br>
<br>
<b><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/guidebooks-for-italys-regions-reviewed.html" target="_blank">⬥Guidebooks for Italian Regions</a></b> (Click)<br>
⬩Amalfi Coast ⬩Cinque Terre ⬩Italian Lakes ⬩Liguria, ⬩Puglia ⬩Sardinia ⬩Sicily ⬩Tuscany<br>
<br>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #7f6000;">⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥</span></div>
▸Guidebooks in each category are <u>in order of preference</u>.▸All books have Paperback and Kindle editions.<br>
▸ On Amazon UK the Kindle editions may be in the Kindle store.<br>
▸See <b>Who Are The Reviewers</b> below to read about the criteria of the reviewers.<br>
<br></div>
<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on">
<u>About our Links</u>. We are retired and we don't write for money, however, links to products and services we recommend often are Affiliate links where we receive a small commission from a purchase. Clicking on them doesn't affect the price offered. As Amazon Associates we may earn such a commission on qualifying purchases via Amazon links. <span style="font-weight: normal;">See also </span><span style="font-weight: 700;">About Us & Disclosures</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> below and in the sidebar.</span><br>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #7f6000;">⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥⬥</span><br>
<span style="color: #7f6000;"><br></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
</h4>
<h4>
<span style="font-size: large;">⬥Italy - Entire Country - The Best Guidebooks</span></h4>
</div>
</div>
No guidebook fully covers all of Italy. If you are traveling away from the major tourist centers, use the Amazon 'Look Inside' feature to see the Table of Contents or Index to make sure your areas is covered.<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAVMzf02D6XckfrIRXwYvWJ5eKQq7jSvgSp0G60AxnoNUG5C9ZdILb1o9_Rs2RS7hZU8-QAJNb1CWHs37PRc_XVO3WELGCXqBGSR2yZYQEMrO-VUc4GTKnMUsubbX8e2RzqhtJAgQkabXr/s1600/IMG_2016.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Early Italy Guidebook 'The Spell of Sicily' 1922" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1144" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAVMzf02D6XckfrIRXwYvWJ5eKQq7jSvgSp0G60AxnoNUG5C9ZdILb1o9_Rs2RS7hZU8-QAJNb1CWHs37PRc_XVO3WELGCXqBGSR2yZYQEMrO-VUc4GTKnMUsubbX8e2RzqhtJAgQkabXr/s320/IMG_2016.JPG" title="Early Italy Guidebook 'The Spell of Sicily' 1922" width="227"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1922 Monroe had a special perspective on<br>
Sicily. A Stanford-educated Professor of<br>
Psychology, he wrote 5 books on Europe.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<b>Italy Lonely Planet 2021</b> ++<a href="https://amzn.to/3JBLtWb" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration-line: underline;" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a> <a href="https://amzn.to/2NoQmqd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">+<b>(Amazon UK)</b></a> +<a href="https://amzn.to/2NpNqtA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>(Amazon UK Kindle)</b></a><br>Color 1024 pages 27 oz. Oct. 2021 15th Edition<br>
Approachable and fairly thorough with straight ahead writing. The comprehensive coverage of Italy's 20 regions has good clear maps interspersed in the articles and it includes more out of the way sights. The 2021 edition also comes with a map of Rome accommodations organized by neighborhood. The guide's index can be somewhat spotty.<br>
<br>
<b>Italy Rick Steves </b><b>2021</b><b> ++<a href="https://amzn.to/3FSN1co" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line: underline;" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a> +<a href="https://amzn.to/356jDwx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a></b><br>
Mostly B/W 1253 pages 21 oz. <u>Next Edition Fall 2022 </u><br>
Complete info on the frequently visited sites in Italy presented in an effective format. The writing imparts a feeling because the places are actually selected by RS himself. Includes excellent maps, suggested itineraries, good info on opening hours, fees, etc. They don't include many of the less traveled places. No coverage on Sicily, Sardinia, or Puglia (Apulia).<br>
<br>
</div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/best-italy-guidebooks-2019-reviewed.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-58806975399246196882018-11-30T10:30:00.000-05:002020-01-31T18:41:52.738-05:00Dining with Artusi - Where Italian Cookbooks Began. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy The Original Artusi Recipes from 'The Art of Eating Well'. </h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">
Visit the Restaurant or Fabulous Festival Dedicated to Artusi in his Emilia-Romagna Hometown. </span></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
The Founder of Italian Cooking with '<i>L'arte di Mangiar Bene</i>' Becomes Real for Food Lovers.</h3>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">In a
country of epic heroes, grand empires, and daring military conquests one of my very favorite famous people is a mild mannered retired silk
merchant who enjoyed eating the local dishes when he traveled around
Italy in the 1800's.</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisEKgmDLy8PS1eyQ60vlK921ck5SNdA8DEdaY8RLC6Xe1UWH-2Wf_Nf9YhavMxQfsXOBz761h0HyfpfkE5LYW5oRUy5owgucTl6RTEOvTsQpAVHy4IwJbBii9QjPS5LBTCdOebgc3zYIVZ/s1600/Artusi+Denoise+Retouched+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="861" data-original-width="609" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisEKgmDLy8PS1eyQ60vlK921ck5SNdA8DEdaY8RLC6Xe1UWH-2Wf_Nf9YhavMxQfsXOBz761h0HyfpfkE5LYW5oRUy5owgucTl6RTEOvTsQpAVHy4IwJbBii9QjPS5LBTCdOebgc3zYIVZ/s320/Artusi+Denoise+Retouched+.jpg" width="226"></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></span><br>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Why
is he of any note? Because he is Pellegrino Artusi -</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> the author of <span style="color: #333333;"><i> </i></span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">'</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Science
in the Kitchen and the Art of Eating Well'<i> </i></b><i>(</i></span><span style="color: #333333;"><i>La Scienza in cucina e l'Arte di mangiar bene).<b> </b></i></span> Today anyone with a word processor and access to the internet can be
a culinary author - I'm guilty myself. But in Artusi's day it was a
new concept, and although to the modern reader the recipes sometimes
appear a bit vague (a pinch of salt, cook until done) they were
marvels of precision in their day.<br>
<br>
Not only that, he was so committed to his endeavor that when publishers rejected his book, he self-published the work. One of the best-selling non-fiction books in Italian history - in 1891.<br>
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And today in his hometown, there's a <u>restaurant</u> that offers dishes made from his original recipes, as well as a large <u>festival</u> dedicated to Pellegrino Artusi.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrU8PnDRUXkuBV6WBEykTtP9w7GIGqslxhLN4I0nr1QQtXABf7scbsqQN1oKzM_ZySupnDoC1iJdbjG1ADGFXPt_O7oJE7VaUvShM8_2kQ0h1tIS_ZmtJf-VEpn0OEqDoMWJubsLs5bIdj/s1600/IMG_1538+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pellegrino Artusi's 1846 Papal State passport from Pope Pius IX" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1301" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrU8PnDRUXkuBV6WBEykTtP9w7GIGqslxhLN4I0nr1QQtXABf7scbsqQN1oKzM_ZySupnDoC1iJdbjG1ADGFXPt_O7oJE7VaUvShM8_2kQ0h1tIS_ZmtJf-VEpn0OEqDoMWJubsLs5bIdj/s320/IMG_1538+%25282%2529.JPG" title="Pellegrino Artusi's 1846 Papal State passport from Pope Pius IX" width="260"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artusi's 1846 passport from Pope Pius IX was<br>
required to travel the Italian peninsula even<br>
from the Papal State to the Duchy of Tuscany!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></span><br>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Artusi oversaw the recipes, while his cook and
butler, </span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Marietta
Sabatini and Francesco Ruffili, </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">measured,
recorded, tested, tasted, tweaked, and refined. Not only was the
approach new, the timing for a national cuisine was perfect: Italy had been fully unified only in
1871, and 20 years later his book was on sale to the first truly Italian generation. Making Italy into a unified nation was a long process that continues to this day. To form a modern republic from the
individualistic dominions that had occupied the Italian peninsula for centuries presented some serious assimilation issues.</span></span><br>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></span><br>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Recognizing dishes from any region other than Tuscany as Italian was radically
inclusive. Recipes from Piemonte, Liguria, Calabria, even Sardinia
and Sicily were included in a book about </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">Italian
</span></i></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">food!
Artusi is widely recognized as one of the important cultural
unifying forces in changing Italy from an area of fiefdoms and
regions into a national entity. He wrote engagingly and fluently in
the new “Italian” language, was elegant and polished and
comprehensible, and he interspersed his recipes with anecdotes and
reflections to make the book enjoyable reading.</span></span><br>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlKxPKcNN6nWzWNIcVrxjIbuHu9hSY8hIMM7cQsxXjDUsi8wurWptheW_Hh8GcQeRwyTqLm4xTI29ueIi-01tNoQnw_5pjZn8RkZd3h2v5SBl255nJNwg5j24LwDLNctSkLfLUbDB9zIgK/s1600/IMG_1548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rocca Albornoziana fortress of Forlimpopoli, Emilia-Romagna." border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlKxPKcNN6nWzWNIcVrxjIbuHu9hSY8hIMM7cQsxXjDUsi8wurWptheW_Hh8GcQeRwyTqLm4xTI29ueIi-01tNoQnw_5pjZn8RkZd3h2v5SBl255nJNwg5j24LwDLNctSkLfLUbDB9zIgK/s400/IMG_1548.JPG" title="Rocca Albornoziana fortress of Forlimpopoli, Emilia-Romagna." width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Rocca Albornoziana in the center of Forlimpopoli, Emilia-Romagna.<br>
The 14th Century fortress is surrounded by the Artusi Festa each June.</td></tr>
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Artusi
was born in 1820, when the world was very different. His hometown,
Forlimpopoli, was close to Bologna, and after a prosperous and
comfortable childhood he spent a lot of time in Bologna, socializing
with the students at the University and enjoying life. So far, so
good, but in 1851 there was a famous bandit called “ Il Passatore”,
The Smuggler, who terrorized the wealthy. The Smuggler came to
Forlimpopoli with his band of thugs and raided the local theatre on
the night of a popular play. He held the audience hostage until they
paid up, then released them slowly, and his men attacked and raped
some of the young women. Artusi's sister Gertrude was among the
victims of the vicious attack, and never recovered; she was
institutionalized for life. The times were violent, disorderly,
dangerous, and it was no coincidence that the next year the family
moved to Firenze.</div>
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</div></div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/11/dining-with-artusi-where-italian.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-71491350365105895892018-10-29T04:59:00.000-04:002019-10-10T15:03:03.233-04:00A Classic Italian Hike for Families, Couples, Trekkers. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">A Guide to One of Italy's Best Easy Hike Destinations. </span></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
A Great Thing To Do with Children & Teens. A Stunning Picnic Spot. </h2>
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An Excellent Attraction near Reggio Emilia (1 hr.) Parma & Modena (1¼) Liguria & Lunigiana (1½). </h4>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpVEoFOMHKEnUj_NJmDUoRmpawAZ8El70UU9kmp65glzmK7fJkCPiA9LKQMGyA6wKIZ-9bAH731AkuBeK8xW-7GyxLxDhPJcSUUVzVQ1vlUcrJyV9vD9dquZ76RpWRwEbknDLRmYF0EiB5/s1600/DSCF4056+wide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Pietra of Bismantova provides spectacular views & an easy hike." border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpVEoFOMHKEnUj_NJmDUoRmpawAZ8El70UU9kmp65glzmK7fJkCPiA9LKQMGyA6wKIZ-9bAH731AkuBeK8xW-7GyxLxDhPJcSUUVzVQ1vlUcrJyV9vD9dquZ76RpWRwEbknDLRmYF0EiB5/s640/DSCF4056+wide.jpg" title="The Pietra of Bismantova provides spectacular views & an easy hike." width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pietra of Bismantova provides spectacular views, but the easiest trail only takes 20 minutes and it's family friendly.</td></tr>
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Treat yourself and your family to one of the great natural attractions of Italy. This spectacular geologic feature will remain in your memory and your photos for much longer than a postcard or the next spaghetti bolognese.<br>
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The oddly named Stone of Bismantova will surprise you with a majesty that speaks to the nature in your soul. It stands above its surroundings as a sentinel, as a symbol, as an aspiration. Primitive man climbed it, ascetics were drawn to it, local culture incorporated it, Italian youth are introduced to nature by it, and you can easily experience it for yourself.<br>
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<b><u>PIETRA BISMANTOVA</u></b><br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib4f4hHvs9FUgxL4efDV_-3eo2yndeOaaztJ5V120SNRJWeS57aOtNtPLgDXikg19BTMC_wFy9FqEqiaFj6CROT1-sXS4AuWwpTlSYEv1Oiu2Qy6VhABYgL2-SdNTxFqjnllAJmBY7Dsbn/s1600/Bismantova_Paolo+Picciati_Wikimedia+4x3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Pietra of Bismantova dominates the surrounding area" border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="722" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib4f4hHvs9FUgxL4efDV_-3eo2yndeOaaztJ5V120SNRJWeS57aOtNtPLgDXikg19BTMC_wFy9FqEqiaFj6CROT1-sXS4AuWwpTlSYEv1Oiu2Qy6VhABYgL2-SdNTxFqjnllAJmBY7Dsbn/s320/Bismantova_Paolo+Picciati_Wikimedia+4x3.jpg" title="The Pietra of Bismantova dominates the surrounding area" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dante alluded to the mountain as Purgatory and the top as the<br>
Garden of Eden. So says every hiker. CC by Paolo da Reggio</td></tr>
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You will see its unmistakable form rising isolated from the landscape from miles away. The <i>Pietra</i> dominates the surrounding area - overlooking it from a height of about 300 meters (1,000 feet) and many sections of the cliffs are 100 meters high! It is roughly one kilometer long by 240 meters wide.<br>
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The unique shape is due to the type of limestone which forms the mountain. Simply put, it resisted erosion better than the surrounding area over the last 20 million years. The rock was formed from sediments in an ancient sea and there are fossils in some areas as well as visible patterns from undersea currents during deposition. The rocks are partly sandstone but mostly calcarenite which is the limestone equivalent of sandstone. This is formed from deposits of carbonate bits that were pressed together into rock from diverse sources such as sand-sized limestone fragments, shells, corals, shark teeth, oodles of ooids (precipitated calcite), etc.<br>
<b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br></span></b>
<b><u>HISTORY</u></b><br>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Of course, it was inhabited by prehistoric people - there's a Copper & Bronze Age archeological site and a necropolis near the Pietra's base at Campo Pianelli. Subsequently, there's evidence that site was used by Etruscans and Celtic-Ligurian tribes. Naturally, the Pietra was fortified, probably until the 15th C. - first by the Romans, then the Byzantines, the Longobards, then Charlemagne, and finally by Matilda of Canossa. There little evidence left of the fortifications today.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br></span>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRRf-smMsAg-ppUoItnF7xSWq2X3SKgbq9zauL1Ot9xE_1Gjy5fmARmdBGhlYJrCSegNT23PMoyWvde97B4pnTP6oAO8962DVMsTst461IvcYxocE-qxJ_nclCK0aOzNQbJGsdQfMWT4q/s1600/DSCF4050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="The views from the cliffs of Italy's Bismantova are endless." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1402" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRRf-smMsAg-ppUoItnF7xSWq2X3SKgbq9zauL1Ot9xE_1Gjy5fmARmdBGhlYJrCSegNT23PMoyWvde97B4pnTP6oAO8962DVMsTst461IvcYxocE-qxJ_nclCK0aOzNQbJGsdQfMWT4q/s400/DSCF4050.JPG" title="The views from the cliffs of Italy's Bismantova are endless." width="350"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The views from the top of Bismantova are endless.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For the surrounding towns. the history concerning the Pietra is religious - involving devotion and pilgrimage to the Madonna della Pietra. The Eremo di Bismantova (Hermitage) at the base was established </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">by B</span>enedictines <span style="font-family: inherit;">in the 1400's and rebuilt in the 1600's. There are frescos inside from the 1400's</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">, including a depiction of the Madonna. Today, the <i>Eremo</i> is part of the Marian order.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Dante Alighieri visited Pietra di Bismantova in 1307. The Mountain of Purgatorio, </span>mentioned in Canto IV of Purgatorio <span style="font-family: inherit;">in the "Divine Comedy", was seemingly i</span>nspired by Pietra's unique formation. As if to inspire hikers, the Garden of Eden was located on top.<br>
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In the last few centuries, the summit was only used for grazing which explains the nice pastures and the easy views we enjoy. Slowly, the trees are regaining control, but it's slow going due to the altitude and the nearby Alps. Today the Pietra di Bismantova is protected as part of the National Park of the Apennines. <b><a href="http://www.parcoappennino.it/Eindex.php" target="_blank">Parco Nazional Apennino Tosco-Emiliano (EN)</a>. </b><br>
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<b><u>HOW TO HIKE THE PIETRA</u></b><br>
The starting point of Pietra di Bismantova activity is Piazzale Dante at the end of Via Bismantova in Castelnovo ne' Monte (RE). See <b>GETTING THERE</b> below. There is free parking as well as the <i>Eremo </i>(Hermitage) nearby, the <i>Rifugio di Bismantova</i> bar-restaurant and the Albergo Forestiera.<br>
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<b>★</b><b>Before you go:</b> Download this <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RvNRxITfWqKwxKLWE4ZxQMcSXBz9Itdj/view?usp=sharing" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Pietra Bismantova Hiking Map</a> to a portable device. Why? It is clearer than the posted map on site, and there are no trail signs or maps on the actual summit. There are also no services on the summit, so at least take sufficient water with you.<br>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFrufX9Fmn0RyAPvtMm0uzJEk2HaIjzvzBsR-hx2kpRb_PnbpWO33bwu9PjEKF0fqq4zc06YYvqFLrd5tH5l0RBmx6EUv_tCkIa8MlC4jjKJDe3pK7_Fc6hsJPUG4THnmqUDy0efP-ODR-/s1600/IMG_1729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The easy hiking trail on Italy's Pietra di Bismantova in October." border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFrufX9Fmn0RyAPvtMm0uzJEk2HaIjzvzBsR-hx2kpRb_PnbpWO33bwu9PjEKF0fqq4zc06YYvqFLrd5tH5l0RBmx6EUv_tCkIa8MlC4jjKJDe3pK7_Fc6hsJPUG4THnmqUDy0efP-ODR-/s400/IMG_1729.JPG" title="The easy hiking trail on Italy's Pietra di Bismantova in October." width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The easy hiking trail on Italy's Pietra di Bismantova in October.</td></tr>
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This is an active recreational attraction, so there are several choices. The most popular climb is a section of Trail 697 which angles directly to the top. It's the shortest, it's not particularly hard, and takes about 20 minutes. The second most popular is the 6 km. '<i>L'anello della Pietra</i>' (Ring around the Stone) using Trail 697 which combines a very scenic nature walk around the Pietra with a visit to the summit. It takes about 2 hours. Both routes leave from Piazzale Dante and below we describe both ascents, as well as the most popular part of the summit and the descent they share. We think school-aged children who like hiking will have no problems with these two hikes.<br>
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Other recreational options include:<br>
-Several other trails, such as Trail 699, which are steeper, rockier, and reach the top from different directions.<br>
-Two<i> via ferrata </i>routes are in place for an alpine experience (i.e. straight up).<br>
-There are also many sport rock climbing opportunities on the cliffs with numerous bolts apparent.<br>
-Climbing (bouldering) is also an attraction on the gigantic fallen rocks around the base of the <i>Pietra</i>.<br>
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</div></div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/10/a-classic-italian-hike-for-families.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-25418585129628222552018-10-17T11:19:00.000-04:002019-10-10T15:05:03.384-04:00A Beautiful Seaside Walk from Rapallo to Santa Margherita. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
The Red Carpet Walk from Rapallo to Santa Margherita & Portofino. </span></h2>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A Great Thing to Do - Explore Between Rapallo & Santa Margherita.</span></h3>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br></span></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Enjoy the Attraction of Villas, Free Beaches, Grand Hotels and a Baroque Church.</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCN7cMwKgOoYmEbpe336QYB0i8JGeSs8UiNETSLCEKfW5urNF3U3kduVkEUo9PmKF3hk_lE_Kp4FIQFY25sN0OPp7N7osFBbM3itBLgsr26eu34cR9slPpVxJy_yLk0sgS6l1AiNNLfqkw/s1600/inside+SMP2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Aerial of San Michele di Pagana with Pomaro, Trelo (Travello), & Prelo Bays. Beyond is Santa Margherita & Parco Naturale di Portofino." border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="744" height="524" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCN7cMwKgOoYmEbpe336QYB0i8JGeSs8UiNETSLCEKfW5urNF3U3kduVkEUo9PmKF3hk_lE_Kp4FIQFY25sN0OPp7N7osFBbM3itBLgsr26eu34cR9slPpVxJy_yLk0sgS6l1AiNNLfqkw/s640/inside+SMP2.jpg" title="Aerial of San Michele di Pagana with Pomaro, Trelo (Travello), & Prelo Bays. Beyond is Santa Margherita & Parco Naturale di Portofino." width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautiful coastal walk through San Michele di Pagana with its three bays: R. to L. Pomaro, Trelo (Travello), & Prelo.<br>
Santa Margherita is beyond with<i> Parco Naturale di Portofino</i> as a backdrop. Photo: Archivio Storico della Regione Liguria.</td></tr>
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It's now a pleasure to walk from
Rapallo to Santa Margherita Ligure (SML) along the coast between
these pretty Ligurian towns - thanks to recent sidewalk improvements. The walk was inaugurated with the World's Longest Red Carpet - 8 km. from Rapallo to SML to Portofino. The carpet is gone now, of course, but the beauty remains. This article covers the first half of the coastal walk, the second half is our popular article <a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/05/getting-to-portofino-walking-hiking-and.html" target="_blank"><b>Walk or Hike from Santa Margherita to Portofino</b></a> which also describes an easy hill hike with beautiful overviews.<br>
<br>
The route is full of sea scenes and garden glimpses and villa views so you can really get a feel for this beautiful area. We recently explored it and we discovered four free
beaches (<i>spiaggia libera</i>); a WWI Memorial forest; a Baroque
church; and all the while we were surrounded by grand mansions and hotels,
gardens and the sea. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6rsgRpPJnOql0L0wGrVvCPDWtiskThsZ3OpgUxBckq098lynFocUu4WBfefB697-GYd0GraJZ0dUI9Z1YMJ6_4EBnPKwbIG3weipXrh1s0UQP9C22K3sRoEiHNTVXIrGwtJLZ5pwg38A/s1600/DSCF4002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Villa Lagomaggiore in Rapallo on Capo Pomaro (Punta Logon)." border="0" data-original-height="1193" data-original-width="1600" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6rsgRpPJnOql0L0wGrVvCPDWtiskThsZ3OpgUxBckq098lynFocUu4WBfefB697-GYd0GraJZ0dUI9Z1YMJ6_4EBnPKwbIG3weipXrh1s0UQP9C22K3sRoEiHNTVXIrGwtJLZ5pwg38A/s400/DSCF4002.JPG" title="Villa Lagomaggiore in Rapallo on Capo Pomaro (Punta Logon)." width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our walk passes inland behind Villa Lagomaggiore on Capo Pomaro.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The walk is great for both kids and
adults and the hills are gentle. This route is about 3 km. (2 miles) and it can be done in 45 minutes, but don't you dare hurry.
Allow 90 minutes to be leisurely, and it's easy to spend a couple of hours if
you are experienced in smelling the roses. It is quite doable with a stroller except harder in the Punta Pagana section where there are two short sandy beaches
and two staircases. There are some services at the first beach at
Pomaro about 1/3 of the way, but bring some water anyway.<br>
<br>
You can
create a personalized round trip using the bus that runs along the
seaside road or by boarding the ferry at SML or Rapallo or Portofino.
See the links at <b><u>MORE INFO</u></b> below.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><u>OUR DIRECTIONS: WALK THIS
WAY.</u></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
We begin on the western side of
Rapallo - across the canal-like Boate river - where we follow Corso Cristoforo Colombo as it heads toward the sea from the intersection with Via Aurelia Occidental. This is near the Hotel Stella and there are blue traffic signs pointing the way to SML and Portofino. As you start, there are good views of Rapallo's extensive harbor which is a major port for private boats of every description and tax bracket. Soon the road curves away uphill past the Hotel Excelsior
Palace. Corso Colombo changes names, but it's always the largest choice. It's known later as Via San Michele di Pagana
then as Via Bridiga Morello a/k/a Strada Provinciale 227 (SP227).<br>
<br>
We walk all the way from Rapallo to SML on the
sidewalk along this road and we just take one detour at Travello. We describe
several sights you will miss without that detour around Punta Pagana (a small peninsula), and we add
details on some places you'll see along the way.<br>
<br>
</div></div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/10/a-beautiful-seaside-walk-along.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-53264398409465821022018-09-24T07:08:00.000-04:002018-10-21T14:41:01.472-04:00Pisa Attractions - Whale Watching with Dinosaurs. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
The World's
Oldest Natural History Museum is a Hidden Gem.</h2>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
The Answer to: What to Do in Tuscany with Children or on a Rainy Day in Pisa.</h3>
<div>
<br></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
A Top Attraction for a Visit Around Pisa - Surrounded by Tuscan Countryside.</h3>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
Civilization made a giant leap one day
in 1591 when a light bulb glowed in the head of Grand Duke Ferdinado
I de' Medici of Tuscany. Like a parent teaching a child, this Medici
ruler had the noble idea to help ordinary citizens learn about the
world while fostering the advance of knowledge. So bright was his
light bulb, that it shines still as the <i><b>Museo Storia Naturale</b></i> (Museum of Natural History) just 10 km. outside Pisa in Calci.</div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHS3tYli72cRPN1u1eoM5l0N2Me7og5EtSb_iVJV7SWbYhlyGjCgNt7Gt8TUQIYFxiZuqENHwuaRoAIfHFI1TB8bhbYMos2o5_hoCSuBi9_22g_9zKBhvE2TabEs64vraYM5kOUOrE3-3B/s1600/2016-05-24+Antona+Museo+Calci+%252866%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Pisa Museum of Natural History Mammalian Department diorama of Early Man" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHS3tYli72cRPN1u1eoM5l0N2Me7og5EtSb_iVJV7SWbYhlyGjCgNt7Gt8TUQIYFxiZuqENHwuaRoAIfHFI1TB8bhbYMos2o5_hoCSuBi9_22g_9zKBhvE2TabEs64vraYM5kOUOrE3-3B/s640/2016-05-24+Antona+Museo+Calci+%252866%2529.JPG" title="Pisa Museum of Natural History Mammalian Department diorama of Early Man" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mammalian Department diorama at the Pisa Museum of Natural History. Strutting your stuff never gets old. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
This excellent museum primarily uses
the good old tried-and-true, get-up-close-to-the-glass-case method,
and it still works wonderfully. There are a some dioramas for
the nostalgic, and a few interactive displays
for the moderns, but most of the collections wait patiently for your
curiosity. The museum is divided into twelve departments so there
are too many attractions for our humble article – we'll just try to
motivate you to see for yourself.<br>
<br>
<b><u>ABOUT THE MUSEUM</u></b><br>
This Museum is one of the hidden places of Pisa. You won't be crowded and it offers a nice change of pace and subject if your feet are protesting and Renaissance paintings are all starting to look alike. FYI, it's so unknown that only 5% of TripAdvisor reviews are in English yet all the reviews are Good or Excellent. The surrounding countryside is beautiful, the town of Calci is pleasant and has a knockout Romanesque church (<u>see below</u>).<br>
<br></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJcq5FxuBWB8oI6Gnh_Qojw8DejJGHUf0nF2bGApfT1RcWLLZ2pPgaKmDnc8KtDfM0IHzXoephNiNJn_XXSWWnfFxkpekxx_g9bvSwSHd4QKqU5_LsbPBOIF7sQFFEiKpvQ7oRmjHbcPi/s1600/Certosa+Marco+Botta+Chinnici.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJcq5FxuBWB8oI6Gnh_Qojw8DejJGHUf0nF2bGApfT1RcWLLZ2pPgaKmDnc8KtDfM0IHzXoephNiNJn_XXSWWnfFxkpekxx_g9bvSwSHd4QKqU5_LsbPBOIF7sQFFEiKpvQ7oRmjHbcPi/s320/Certosa+Marco+Botta+Chinnici.jpg" width="213"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charterhouse (Certosa) of Calci.<br>
<div style="text-align: right;">
CC by Marco Botta Chinnici</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The <a href="https://www.msn.unipi.it/en/" target="_blank"><b>Museum of Natural History</b></a> was
organized by 1595 from diverse existing Medici collections, making it one of the world's oldest museums. It was created as part of the University of Pisa and located at the even older Pisa
Botanical Garden – which also still exists near the Leaning Tower. In 1981, the Museum was
moved to a wing of the gigantic Carthusian monastery building in Calci, 10 km away.<br>
<br>
The Museum has two separately ticketed sections – 1.) The Core Natural History Exhibits and 2.) The Aquarium & Special Exhibits. Our story describes our visit to some departments in both sections. We saved some sections for our next visit.<br>
<br>
The Museum's displays are generally English friendly, and the building is quite well adapted for visitors with mobility issues. Below are sections on <u><b style="text-decoration-line: underline;">TICKETS</b></u> and <b><u>GETTING THERE</u></b> .<br>
<br>
The <a href="http://artesalva.isti.cnr.it/en/charterhouse-calci" target="_blank"><b>Carthusian Monastery</b></a> (a Charterhouse in English, <i>Certosa</i> in Italian) is a separate and interesting Museum well worth a visit. Website: <b><a href="http://polomusealetoscana.beniculturali.it/index.php?it/180/calci-pi-museo-nazionale-della-certosa-monumentale-di-calci" target="_blank">Museo Nazionale della Certosa Calci (IT)</a> </b> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/certosadicalci/#" target="_blank"><b>@certosadicalci</b></a> on Facebook. You can download an app named<b> <a href="https://musarapp.com/" target="_blank">MusAR (IT)</a> </b>to guide you. Even though the app is in Italian, there are a lot of graphics which makes it helpful if you don't <i>parla bene</i>.<br>
<br>
<br>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<u><b>WHALE WATCHING</b></u></h3>
<u><b><br></b></u></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09ky0xg2h6nyS5qcVBsaLW0RiT-A5lGfSLMcY0fxC0HjHkwSuqyKTe2CMtMr_-1ZwtdSG2e5ZN3ppkIAmTHmkZCivUa-dKisp0pez1bw27OTEQfvkXH6ZCYV_X4p9oNx9z4q0MPaE_OkC/s1600/2016-05-24+Antona+Museo+Calci+%252860%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Whale Gallery at the historic Pisa Natural History Museum" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09ky0xg2h6nyS5qcVBsaLW0RiT-A5lGfSLMcY0fxC0HjHkwSuqyKTe2CMtMr_-1ZwtdSG2e5ZN3ppkIAmTHmkZCivUa-dKisp0pez1bw27OTEQfvkXH6ZCYV_X4p9oNx9z4q0MPaE_OkC/s640/2016-05-24+Antona+Museo+Calci+%252860%2529.JPG" title="The Whale Gallery at the historic Pisa Natural History Museum" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Whale Gallery at the historic Pisa Natural History Museum. One of Europe's largest collection of whale skeletons.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
This is Italy's largest collection of
whale skeletons. Many are displayed full-sized in a long purpose-built hall,
and they are really impressive. You can walk right up to some of
them, under some others, and actually inside one. There are collateral displays to help advance your understanding of our blubbery brothers. You will never take whales for granted again.<br>
<br>
</div></div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/09/pisa-museum-natural-history.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-47148604140423273822018-08-17T07:00:00.000-04:002018-10-21T14:42:59.088-04:00The Best Tour of Rome's Colosseum Reviewed. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmW74Gsb65ChdFcanQc7VG3cnT2Gffq5TP4CtrtXCo8g4f-xLlV_M4GVY6WC13RSUH_24VdjC3bWHvmjwRr43WGj0mXkgoFbisXNL-ZFdGaxm0xuFaNDaYtZjO_eR1140f7xJEUQTaqyT1/s1600/IMG_0590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Classic facade of the Roman Colosseum" border="0" data-original-height="1053" data-original-width="1600" height="419" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmW74Gsb65ChdFcanQc7VG3cnT2Gffq5TP4CtrtXCo8g4f-xLlV_M4GVY6WC13RSUH_24VdjC3bWHvmjwRr43WGj0mXkgoFbisXNL-ZFdGaxm0xuFaNDaYtZjO_eR1140f7xJEUQTaqyT1/s640/IMG_0590.JPG" title="Classic facade of the Roman Colosseum" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Today's iconic facade of the Roman Colosseum is actually the original interior facade. The original outer wall was 100,000<br>
cubic meters of travertine stone. That stone was later used to build many Roman churches and several palaces of Popes. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Is a Colosseum Guided Tour Worth it?</span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Read our Third Ring Colosseum Tour Review with
Tips and Advice. </span></h3>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<h4 style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
Where to Get the Best Photos. Can We Skip the Line? Colosseum Guided Tours in English.</h4>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<u><b>Should You Book a Guided Tour or Tour on Your
Own?</b></u><br>
We have done both, and we believe that a
Colosseum tour / Roman Forum tour is the best choice. We visited the
Colosseum and the Roman Forum by ourselves on our first trip to Italy
in 1984. We enjoyed it a lot, and it was easier then – inexpensive
and no security. However, we now know that we missed a lot of the
best stuff, and our little guide book skipped over many features that
would have really interested us. Both of the sites are just too
packed with layers of history and ancient buildings to be enjoyed
fully without help.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMmEKGsooDHdVBCp_MjcMvmxOkmflXWRleZ5YUgM-UpEhf1y1hHna190nTBk3YlNSVRkLBQ_5Fq9HcKW-k2AKYzPLjYKjKXFtcZpMm1I8rCdmWzkKHOP66xH3Z67rD7iBAHs6daO-kZC9W/s1600/IMG_0598.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMmEKGsooDHdVBCp_MjcMvmxOkmflXWRleZ5YUgM-UpEhf1y1hHna190nTBk3YlNSVRkLBQ_5Fq9HcKW-k2AKYzPLjYKjKXFtcZpMm1I8rCdmWzkKHOP66xH3Z67rD7iBAHs6daO-kZC9W/s640/IMG_0598.JPG"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The arena floor was wood covered with sand, 270 by 160 feet. Underneath were these walls of the hypogeum, a two-story underground of tunnels connecting training rooms for gladiators, cages for wild animals, and storage rooms <span style="font-size: x-small;">hidden under the arena floor. Elaborate machines lifted scenery and animals into the arena. Photo from 2nd level with lens at 55mm.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<u><br></u>
<u>Switch to a new millennium.</u> In May,
2018, we went on a guided tour* of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum
and we were blown away by the wonderful experience. Not only were the
lines at entry and the security check made easy, but the sites
themselves came alive. Our guide presented fascinating history,
facts, and anecdotes at every stop, and answered every question we
had. It was very much like we had never been there before.
Self-guiding is a fun way to see many places, but not the Colosseum
and the Forum.<br>
<br>
<b><u>Which Tour - Top Level, Underground or At Night?</u></b><br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHJDxk4AofX7x2aEcUMgQ_aYTjRoYq2_U6G7cnKXp_HfPRVyeLPdjjm6tNcog162GnKDPAkm9_2D_15NYxr0w7YC9JLVSyAba2_lh5cFmNqFeUlhj_0v8daiskYh83n2wVS8TCWd6fQI4J/s1600/IMG_0629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rome Colosseum has good views from Level 1, but it's crowded sometimes." border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHJDxk4AofX7x2aEcUMgQ_aYTjRoYq2_U6G7cnKXp_HfPRVyeLPdjjm6tNcog162GnKDPAkm9_2D_15NYxr0w7YC9JLVSyAba2_lh5cFmNqFeUlhj_0v8daiskYh83n2wVS8TCWd6fQI4J/s320/IMG_0629.JPG" title="Rome Colosseum has good views from Level 1, but it's crowded sometimes." width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Access to Level 1 is included with general admission. The<br>
views are good but sometimes you'll have to wait for a spot.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We booked our tour with the <a href="https://theromanguy.com/" target="_blank"><b>The Roman Guy</b></a>. Founded by a young American - Sean Finelli - just 10 years ago, we selected them because they have a strong customer-oriented attitude and consistently good reputation. For the Colosseum we chose the 3 hour <a href="https://theromanguy.com/tours/Rome/top-levels-colosseum-tour" target="_blank"><b>Restricted Areas Belvedere Top Levels Colosseum Tour</b></a> which also includes a Roman Forum
tour. We especially wanted the special viewpoints for better photos
and this tour includes the restricted access third level - a/k/a the Belvedere. Our second, back-up choice was the best-selling <a href="https://theromanguy.com/tours/Rome/colosseum-dungeons-tour-with-roman-forum-palantine-hill" target="_blank"><b>Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill</b></a>. The group was manageably small – about 15 people, and we each had
an earpiece receiver for easy listening. Our guide was Giulia and she
was hands down the best guide we’ve ever had in decades of travel.
This smart Roman has several advanced degrees in history and was so
knowledgeable she never needed to use a script. She is also friendly,
unflappable, and dedicated to seeing that we had a good experience.
Which we certainly did.<br>
<br>
<b><u>TIP:</u></b> If you book a tour with The Roman Guy, use the <b>DISCOUNT PROMO CODE</b> shown below.</div>
<br>
<u><b>Our Top Levels Colosseum Tour Described.</b></u><br>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsyTbY2YzFKzFWroY1SZdHnjeWKbpXV6fRnR9dfO5invJZpyTIQnX5pbj9ofAwtYDH7gKkeQjAMEmer4Mc11iKm0m8YnqVCr81Z2-TMINCPxNkGhLYq1MjOZAHldJ7LFixDNUjqQNp49gX/s1600/IMG_0624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rome tour guide with Colosseum in background." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1051" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsyTbY2YzFKzFWroY1SZdHnjeWKbpXV6fRnR9dfO5invJZpyTIQnX5pbj9ofAwtYDH7gKkeQjAMEmer4Mc11iKm0m8YnqVCr81Z2-TMINCPxNkGhLYq1MjOZAHldJ7LFixDNUjqQNp49gX/s320/IMG_0624.JPG" title="Rome tour guide with Colosseum in background." width="210"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Top Level guide Giulia making<br>
sense of the Colosseum's history.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Colosseum. After we met outside
the Colosseum, Giulia guided us through the entrance lines and
security with just a small wait. FYI, there's no way to truly
Skip-the-Line at the Colosseum. The best you can do is take a guided
tour where the wait time to enter and get through security is
minimized. Our tour was a morning affair, which we strongly recommend
because the longest waits occur when the 3,000 person maximum
capacity is reached and new entries are paced – often around late
morning.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Once inside, our Roman Guy guide, Giulia, gave us a brief but fascinating architectural and historical overview
of the Colosseum so we'd know what we're seeing. Things like where it
got it's name (it's not the building size), why there are holes in
the walls, why was it preserved at all, how the seats were allocated,
what is the connection between the Colosseum and the word
'fornication'. Did you know that the present exterior is actually an
interior wall – the original exterior wall is gone – 100,000
cubic meters of stone! Did you know there's no evidence any
Christians were martyred here? Freshly and smugly knowledgeable, we
then headed up the steep entrance ramp ( a <i>vomitorium </i>in Latin ) to the first
ring. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br>
</div></div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/08/the-best-tour-of-romes-colosseum.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-8159906718025234422018-06-07T03:57:00.003-04:002022-02-12T12:51:04.546-05:00Italian Food Specialties - The Tramezzino Sandwich<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
One of the World's Great Sandwiches is Celebrated in Cremona.</h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
The English Tea Sandwich inspired This Edible Palette for Gourmets and Food Artists.</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5ZfU1w3sGAtNIFQEhGdRzZhhNL6AzcdD8_UEE6xh0oseBG0vRhhOLKeo4jRKUkZOClwd5pUcjtY4OYHNfBykZWxwFBLkTOCZFVGg2Q4ATuecNRiIDPPclr79YKYjyWvpXxg5P79ceqLF/s1600/ugo+marcolino+bresaola+caprino+rucola.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tramezzino sandwich at Ugo Grill, Cremona with bresaola, caprino, rucola." border="0" data-original-height="944" data-original-width="1242" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5ZfU1w3sGAtNIFQEhGdRzZhhNL6AzcdD8_UEE6xh0oseBG0vRhhOLKeo4jRKUkZOClwd5pUcjtY4OYHNfBykZWxwFBLkTOCZFVGg2Q4ATuecNRiIDPPclr79YKYjyWvpXxg5P79ceqLF/s400/ugo+marcolino+bresaola+caprino+rucola.jpg" title="Tramezzino sandwich at Ugo Grill, Cremona with bresaola, caprino, rucola." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Marcolino Tramezzino at Ugo's in Cremona. Bresaola, caprino, rucola.<br />
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Photo Courtesy of Ugo Grill.</div>
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Who doesn’t want a delicate and delicious English tea sandwich? I do, you do, pretty much everyone in northern Italy does. The Italian offspring born of this tea sandwich desire is the famous tramezzino. In 1925, Gabriele D’Annuzio invented these sandwiches as an inspired variation on the English version. He worked at Caffè Mulassano in Torino (still there) and he really knew the hungry inclinations of the Torinesi.<br />
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So why should a traveler care about a sandwich? Long lunches in Italy are a pleasure, and reason enough to travel
to Italy. But after a few days of long lunches and dinners it can be a relief to have a meal that
isn't such a big deal. But a plain ham sandwich isn't an experience you'll remember
dreamily in the depths of winter. This is the time for tramezzini - simple, quick, authentically Italian, delicious and the food of dreams. Can you even imagine prosciutto, shrimp, and cream of asparagus. How about a gorgonzola and salami tramezzini with mayo?<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiWpbrk1bO2kjYFEQVaDRhMHh0As9JCxLCvdMZZ0tYKc0EzLXMkvmUqocKU-rfQgWCWfI097xCUyiIZ8OK4F6Mnn1I68I9Ua2kBr_OeMYvK6mXDjCGk6vO52iQVEk6GvooNGVyuy2O7yOg/s1600/IMG_0316.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cremona Duomo (Cathedral) and the Torazzo Bell Tower." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiWpbrk1bO2kjYFEQVaDRhMHh0As9JCxLCvdMZZ0tYKc0EzLXMkvmUqocKU-rfQgWCWfI097xCUyiIZ8OK4F6Mnn1I68I9Ua2kBr_OeMYvK6mXDjCGk6vO52iQVEk6GvooNGVyuy2O7yOg/s320/IMG_0316.JPG" title="Cremona Duomo (Cathedral) and the Torazzo Bell Tower." width="208" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cremona Duomo and the Torazzo Bell Tower.<br />
Duomo begun 1107 AD, the Tower finished 1309.</td></tr>
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The classic tramezzino is a small delicate sandwich made with two slices of soft white bread, crustless, spread with mayonnaise and filled with any combination of ingredients that satisfies, challenges, or amuses a needy epicure. Of course the concept has evolved and in some places now you might see the name tramezzino applied and/or misapplied to rolled-up sandwiches or toasted creations, and they might be the size of a matchbox or a multilayered affair half the size of a cigar box. Let others do what they may, here we are speaking of the classic version as celebrated in Cremona. They are hand-sized and the filling-to-bread ratio optimizes the taste, not the appearance.<br />
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Tramezzino is a diminutive of the word tramezzo, and it’s originally an architectural term meaning the division between spaces. So if you have an empty space involving your stomach between breakfast and lunch, here’s your snack. Today, it’s also used as an inexpensive, infinitely variable, and delicious lunch, an anytime bar snack, or a consolation for Hungarian train passengers (true).<br />
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First a word about the bread. Many people think that pane carre, the square loaf found in every Italian supermarket, is the proper bread to use. Well, it looks the same, but no no no. The proper bread is a particular type, made with milk in the batter to add softness and richness. The bread is soft - not in the way of Wonder Bread - but more in the way of the interior of a Parker House roll that’s freshly made. The whorls in the bread are distinct and supply strength without toughness - a marvel of sandwich physics. It has an almost meltingly fluffy texture, it’s irreplaceable and it's contribution is not to be underestimated.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7djBN8g1-1-AH8kiFor6r-kwiIzXeAxNlTZToNRhDT_-ch2SB2UMahX3wn_yVpuqMD0fR0ALb_t7oVgiaCn2aBbGYiHZXaGIFoLumccmaf5CxqiQinYDXumOPvaHLZWDOfzn0AoUWzUSG/s1600/IMG_0253.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Making a tramezzino sandwich at Tramezzeria XXV Aprile, Cremona" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7djBN8g1-1-AH8kiFor6r-kwiIzXeAxNlTZToNRhDT_-ch2SB2UMahX3wn_yVpuqMD0fR0ALb_t7oVgiaCn2aBbGYiHZXaGIFoLumccmaf5CxqiQinYDXumOPvaHLZWDOfzn0AoUWzUSG/s320/IMG_0253.JPG" title="Making a tramezzino sandwich at Tramezzeria XXV Aprile, Cremona" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Each tramezzino is made to order.<br />
Tramezzeria XXV Aprile, Cremona</td></tr>
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The other key ingredient is mayonnaise. This recipe is more closely guarded than the bread formula, and apparently everybody has a “secret” ingredient. A particular olive oil? Lemon? White pepper? It doesn’t really matter to your mouth, all you need to know is the stuff is smooth and unctuous and amazing and essential to this specialty.<br />
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The selections for the filling begin with the classics, lots of combinations of ham, sliced egg, tomato, artichoke, tuna...and now it's possible to make spectacular forays into new territory - turkey, brie, and even nutella. Tramezzini are available to a degree all over Italy, but especially popular from Turin to Venice, so wherever you find yourself in the north, you can seek them out. <b>However</b> if you strive - as we do - to know the best of Italy, you really want to go to the very epicenter of the modern tramezzini world: <b>Cremona</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGY50-8SiuA_pPZzaC_aef6cUvTTPOUJxOADU2a7NdpiHsFh-6-_pJZRX0R3OP4fS7irfom5WZO5FEXr2_CWhVLmGqPX92qzfri4T4YbtFRCLokqVEEIej-6fnU33DnvnzSmh79trSHKj/s1600/IMG_0245.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1145" data-original-width="1600" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGY50-8SiuA_pPZzaC_aef6cUvTTPOUJxOADU2a7NdpiHsFh-6-_pJZRX0R3OP4fS7irfom5WZO5FEXr2_CWhVLmGqPX92qzfri4T4YbtFRCLokqVEEIej-6fnU33DnvnzSmh79trSHKj/s320/IMG_0245.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The most famous place to get one of these creations is at <u>Ugo Grill</u>. The founder, Ugo Berti, was a restaurateur who was inspired to perfect this proto-street food almost 50 years ago, and now he's recognized as <i>Il Re dei Tramezzini</i> - the King! Ugo went to his eternal rest in 2015 at age 87, but his spirit lives on in a tiny, standing-room-only shop filled with happy customers and friendly sandwich makers. Popular with office workers and tourists and laborers alike, the service is quick and the sandwiches are very affordable - about 2.50€ to 3€ (2018). The hard part is choosing from the extensive menu. Hint - it eases the stress to get two or three.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdXaCeBHpFG7FgY6x_ouxZMQ6sTOI0m2mZ33N5_ym2dZha2pt4Adf-RoPhEcKKcGKpDSubMbuzObrxV0Rz-IyH0yXWxEfzUiwjeNdVmbSnUY3uqXy_WZ_h60KJC4wBIWKvh84ODB4iLcBf/s1600/IMG_0248sq.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1599" data-original-width="1600" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdXaCeBHpFG7FgY6x_ouxZMQ6sTOI0m2mZ33N5_ym2dZha2pt4Adf-RoPhEcKKcGKpDSubMbuzObrxV0Rz-IyH0yXWxEfzUiwjeNdVmbSnUY3uqXy_WZ_h60KJC4wBIWKvh84ODB4iLcBf/s200/IMG_0248sq.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Professional food critic at work.</td></tr>
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So now you’ve got the special bread, the special mayonnaise, the classic fillings... at Ugo Grill these are not cut in delicate little triangles, they’re just handed to you freshly made and whole in a napkin with a smile and out you go. Don't expect a dine-in experience, but if the few tables outside Ugo's are full, head for the Public Gardens nearby, and you have a memorable picnic. After all, that’s why they call it street food, right? We got one with tuna and artichoke, and one carbonara, which is pancetta and egg, both were fantastic. You may also encounter tramezzini makers in other cities favoring a different approach - offering the sandwiches in small triangles or thick slabs. Either way, they're great.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfW9bPf5ztAtALY2AvIIHj3ETDfudrxMHuLkNR2d5seVJMvUVpNvyBCVMxfYi-jirVRvN7uSbAG5TSFYqUEBSNIi6eI7t0SHTB_8bha2pBRbF4KtGT-T68RCNPSDWfPFVc4dBRcgUi_lR/s1600/IMG_0264.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cremona's Tramezzeria XXV Aprile sandwich shop at lunchtime." border="0" data-original-height="1236" data-original-width="1600" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfW9bPf5ztAtALY2AvIIHj3ETDfudrxMHuLkNR2d5seVJMvUVpNvyBCVMxfYi-jirVRvN7uSbAG5TSFYqUEBSNIi6eI7t0SHTB_8bha2pBRbF4KtGT-T68RCNPSDWfPFVc4dBRcgUi_lR/s320/IMG_0264.JPG" title="Cremona's Tramezzeria XXV Aprile sandwich shop at lunchtime." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cremona's Tramezzeria XXV Aprile at lunchtime.</td></tr>
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What kind of food reviewers would we be to try only one place? Idiots is the word you're looking for. So, a few doors down, we went to another Cremona hotspot - <u>Tramezzeria XXV Aprile</u>, with a bit more expansive menu. It caters to a broader market - offering hot dogs, hamburgers, piadini, as well as a large, adventurous and different selection of tramezzini. So, branching out - we tried two more: smoked salmon with asparagus, and shrimp with tomato. Here there's some seating inside and also seating outside in the arcade. The crowd of students and workers was pleasant,and the tramezzini were very good. Yet, as romantics having been steeped in tramezzini history, we couldn’t help but feel disloyal to the King. Long live Ugo!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhYo8tcVngOGj3yS_LZOpYXXFizzkvgTqDZvV5Ff0zC_qQ6p5y1qazkg3Jkg-6Oj-a1fdijIttLlcqG2YLCG3xaQTAkN9QCHeh6Z54iXWSZHv6VAfO3dqR4OwektvVU2BAoJuTaTRMoVMl/s1600/IMG_0268.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ugo Grill Menu, 2018" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="830" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhYo8tcVngOGj3yS_LZOpYXXFizzkvgTqDZvV5Ff0zC_qQ6p5y1qazkg3Jkg-6Oj-a1fdijIttLlcqG2YLCG3xaQTAkN9QCHeh6Z54iXWSZHv6VAfO3dqR4OwektvVU2BAoJuTaTRMoVMl/s400/IMG_0268.JPG" title="Ugo Grill Menu, 2018" width="206" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ugo Grill Menu, pre-covid.<br />
Start deciding now. Click to enlarge.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Ugo Grill</u></b></span><br />
Via Antonio Gramsci, 13 Cremona <br />
Phone 0372 20354
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<b><a href="https://ugogrill.it/" target="_blank">Ugo Grill Website</a> </b>For info, online ordering, and even delivery.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/ugo.grill/about/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank"><b>Ugo Grill on Facebook with Menu link</b></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Tramezzeria XXV Aprile </u></b></span><br />
Piazza Roma, 25 Cremona<br />
Phone 0372 750242<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/tramezzeria25aprile/" target="_blank"><b>Tramezzeria XXV Aprile on Facebook with Menu link</b></a><br />
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<b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Link:</span> <a href="http://www.turismocremona.it/index.php/" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">Tourism Cremona (Provincial Site)</a></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><b style="font-size: x-large;">Link: <a href="https://www.in-lombardia.it/en/tourism-in-lombardy/tourism-cremona" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">Tourism Cremona (Regional Site)</a></b><br />
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Written by Martha
<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/1/118395876460565607548?rel=author"></a>
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Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.com26100 Cremona, Province of Cremona, Italy45.133249 10.022651116.823015163821154 -25.133598900000003 73.443482836178845 45.1789011tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-58660162696422700812018-04-30T06:35:00.000-04:002018-05-13T11:40:41.496-04:00Below Mighty Massa Castle, a Perfect Tordelli Waits. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Tordelli are Tortelli are Tortelloni. Enjoy this Many Named Pasta at a Tordellaria. </span></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Eat Massa's Unique Piatto Tipico in an Authentic Local Restaurant.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4gIt0Ro5od8MWyBdllHTeAnORqw2yBAB8wxyiV8HDbCf3ZZn_yOoaD_b79QF6m4DctpD5KrOCo8dkMNjPjexQ_cSIIZdFhhd1Bc4Db7SSBIKwbDdtLglsMdkWX01TF0AcMN_4Wk7c6BkU/s1600/Malaspina+Castle+Richard+Avery+BW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Malaspina Castle, Massa, Tuscany." border="0" data-original-height="1370" data-original-width="1600" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4gIt0Ro5od8MWyBdllHTeAnORqw2yBAB8wxyiV8HDbCf3ZZn_yOoaD_b79QF6m4DctpD5KrOCo8dkMNjPjexQ_cSIIZdFhhd1Bc4Db7SSBIKwbDdtLglsMdkWX01TF0AcMN_4Wk7c6BkU/s400/Malaspina+Castle+Richard+Avery+BW.jpg" title="Malaspina Castle, Massa, Tuscany." width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malaspina Castle still watches over Massa, Tuscany. CC by Richard Avery.</td></tr>
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At the
northern end of Tuscany, hard by the sea and the Apuan Alps, is an interesting provincial capital with a crazy name - Massa. It is full of history
and busy people and stone industry enterprise, and has its own lovely beach community. Although some of Massa's historic areas were damaged
in WWII bombing, much of the historic center, and one of the largest and
fiercest castles in Italy survived. The Castle of the Malaspina, established before 1,000 AD, and first
mentioned in documents in 1164, is still powerful looking and fearsome. The Malaspina ruled the area known as Lunigiana for centuries and competed fist-to-fist with all who challenged. It's fascinating to visit the castle, and you can tour it on weekend and
holiday afternoons. Generally the tours are in Italian, but we've experienced very
helpful guides who recognize perplexity in an instant. For hours and fees, see:<b>
<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.comune.massa.ms.it/castelloommerce&source=gmail&ust=1524932685485000&usg=AFQjCNFqQ3FpdbCJFpGPAz9ADmy-mWrKOA" href="http://www.comune.massa.ms.it/castello" target="_blank">Castello Malaspina Massa</a></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAU9GnLXA9tMwDa7uQ_pAEhazzGhD5LLtqnMKbAEy-5ZNOsxBQBV4XpszkrhdlYg7T5C9lxdOMLs33yfCa-_lNfBe6PJ-0ZexfMXW7imWIL0qy0mT3brzlrrt36f2uQ_HcBDKDUfS3_R3r/s1600/IMG_0212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dining room at Abacab Ristorante & Tordelleria, Massa, Tuscany, Italy." border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAU9GnLXA9tMwDa7uQ_pAEhazzGhD5LLtqnMKbAEy-5ZNOsxBQBV4XpszkrhdlYg7T5C9lxdOMLs33yfCa-_lNfBe6PJ-0ZexfMXW7imWIL0qy0mT3brzlrrt36f2uQ_HcBDKDUfS3_R3r/s400/IMG_0212.JPG" title="Dining room at Abacab Ristorante & Tordelleria, Massa, Tuscany, Italy." width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dining room at Abacab Ristorante & Tordelleria, Massa, Tuscany, Italy.</td></tr>
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If you'll be visiting the castle or are shopping in Massa, of course you'd like to know and try some of the food
specialties. Well, there's a standout. <i>Tordelli alla massese</i> is
rightly famous and it's delicious. It's made with a sturdy egg pasta, a rich and
satisfying filling with a 'Massese' taste, and a sauce that's like the country cousin of <i>bolognese</i>: more robust, more sincere, more down to earth. The dish is so much a part of Massa that there are variations on the basic tradition, and
there are both shops and restaurants devoted to <u>tordelli</u>.</div>
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</div></div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/04/below-mighty-massa-castle-perfect.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-60473489551696776702018-03-14T17:11:00.000-04:002019-04-22T00:56:55.888-04:00Italian Time Travel from Tuscan to Etruscan <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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A Weekend Trip in Tuscany - Piombino and Populonia.</h2>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Midway from Rome to Florence - Visit & Discover the Largest Etruscan City on the Sea.</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjDERv-P_03Ckd5XqXskoe1skWHCZZiM31VZu5GEL4_Qii2TuDi9ovemm8uv_EUyDAe9nQruBica0qWjlKYmr6yJ_uvSJCi6NcTAetNf8V5dSm7BNLijXAcK3jjY0eLeySHzVSFdcRwon/s1600/IMG_0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img alt="Silver amphora of Baratti in the Museum of Populonia in Piombino" border="0" data-original-height="1395" data-original-width="1600" height="557" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjDERv-P_03Ckd5XqXskoe1skWHCZZiM31VZu5GEL4_Qii2TuDi9ovemm8uv_EUyDAe9nQruBica0qWjlKYmr6yJ_uvSJCi6NcTAetNf8V5dSm7BNLijXAcK3jjY0eLeySHzVSFdcRwon/s640/IMG_0030.JPG" title="Silver amphora of Baratti in the Museum of Populonia in Piombino" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "pt sans" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Detail of the pure silver amphora of Baratti in the Museum of Populonia in Piombino. One of the finest relics<br />of Etruscan civilization ever found, it weighs 16 pounds. It was recovered by a Livorno fisherman in 1968. </span></span></td></tr>
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<br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">We
think of the Roman Empire as one of the wellsprings of civilization,
as an ancient and powerful state that enabled the rise of western
culture. But before Roman times, when the Etruscans were in charge,
Rome was a farming village, low on the scale of desirable property.
The Etruscan civilization flourished for over half a millennium, from about 900 BC to 300 BC,
and left intriguing traces of industry and wealth in many of their
ancient centers. Populonia, now a part of Piombino, was once a
busy center for Etruscan trade, and was renowned as a smelting
facility, since deposits of iron, copper and tin were plentiful in the region. They minted coins, worked metal, grew wine, and traded extensively with
Sardinia. Funeral customs were important to the Etruscans, and they buried their dead with painstaking care in special buildings with many personal effects.</span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQvwJOAzQUr8UjHBDv314RLjZg3aVgrmgJdQ0PYlPsKGA6pc_uD1BdJ6rJZiKMrfAFRzXndW04oUL2L2s5jtqW0en3-3j_GWBcaUgLwY1g9isWmlkUuoSjzWZ6wDrKYvxbmqaj6uwghTxR/s1600/IMG_0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Old lights on the way to the sea. Piombino." border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="823" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQvwJOAzQUr8UjHBDv314RLjZg3aVgrmgJdQ0PYlPsKGA6pc_uD1BdJ6rJZiKMrfAFRzXndW04oUL2L2s5jtqW0en3-3j_GWBcaUgLwY1g9isWmlkUuoSjzWZ6wDrKYvxbmqaj6uwghTxR/s320/IMG_0015.JPG" title="Old lights on the way to the sea. Piombino." width="164" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Down to the sea. Piombino.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">You
can have a wonderful introduction to this civilization by visiting
Piombino, a rather small (35,000) city in Tuscany just south of
Livorno. Most visitors hurry through Piombino on their way the the island of Elba on the ferry from Piombino. That would be a shame - the town is well worth a stop. It makes a great weekend jaunt, and also an excellent stopover when traveling between Rome and Florence. It is packed with
interest for history buffs and perfect for kids who are intrigued by
hikes, tombs, rocks, or metals. The complete trip really needs a car, although rail connections are possible to Piombino.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK2w4pEs1FYDiB9W4ey34vkvdtIx1rix6ewQ6msABL8ZY-g9KFtQRNiFHsTkl31QiCODnWYmk8dlkRKkVnSLklYG-eWgUubEYO4Mn8TJ7BbZfN93epkW6doipESBE2QujEGXcry71waYWS/s1600/IMG_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Old town Piombino. Corso Emanuele." border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="1600" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK2w4pEs1FYDiB9W4ey34vkvdtIx1rix6ewQ6msABL8ZY-g9KFtQRNiFHsTkl31QiCODnWYmk8dlkRKkVnSLklYG-eWgUubEYO4Mn8TJ7BbZfN93epkW6doipESBE2QujEGXcry71waYWS/s320/IMG_0016.JPG" title="Old town Piombino. Corso Emanuele." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old town Piombino. Corso Emanuele.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The historic center of Piombino is small and full of one way streets, but parking is
relatively easy on the perimeter, and after you settle in, most of the parts of town
you'll want to see are in pedestrian zones. The small cobbled main street winds through the old town to the sea, where there is a walk along the
water and a fabulous view of the surrounding islands that make up the
Tuscan archipelago, including Elba. The street is
lined with restaurants featuring – what else? – fresh seafood.
We had lunch at <u>Osteria Mamma Carla</u>, where the staff are friendly,
the octopus salad is wonderful and the spaghetti <i>allo scoglio</i>
delicious.</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-WEsTMlNQb__d8VjcRz1rweQa5yo-T-H0aFGshGrwgfalDp6M2FoJ6Aj5ladKfLd2qXp48J7kyqxAONAzxgWH_QJd6quEETHy3XaDYhSEq7__I-70qigPUwIhiI-HMtw9W1rJOYfxYBP/s1600/IMG_0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Roman mosiac with squid in sunglasses. Museum of Populonia, Piombino." border="0" data-original-height="1047" data-original-width="1600" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-WEsTMlNQb__d8VjcRz1rweQa5yo-T-H0aFGshGrwgfalDp6M2FoJ6Aj5ladKfLd2qXp48J7kyqxAONAzxgWH_QJd6quEETHy3XaDYhSEq7__I-70qigPUwIhiI-HMtw9W1rJOYfxYBP/s400/IMG_0021.JPG" title="Roman mosiac with squid in sunglasses. Museum of Populonia, Piombino." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roman mosiac with a squid in sunglasses. Museum of Populonia, Piombino.. </td></tr>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">When you're tired of walking around town, it's time for the famous museum, the <i>Museo Archeologico del
Territorio di Populonia</i>.</span></span></span><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">
We visited in late October, in fact on the last weekend that the site was
open to the public, and hours were somewhat restricted – it's best
to check before you plan your trip
</span></span></span></span></em><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.parchivaldicornia.it/en/the-museum.html" target="_blank"><b>Archaeological Museum of Populonia</b></a>.
It's an easy walk out to the museum from the center of town. The
museum itself is beautifully designed, and moves you along through
the history of the area. It starts before history began and moves through the bronze age to Etruscans and Romans. The variety of exhibits insures something for everyone. There are early Etruscan arrowheads and
spears, which look a lot like rocks to the uninitiated, explanations of early mining, dioramas with hairy people and gorgeous mosaics and an exquisite silver amphora that is as
sophisticated as it is lovely. It takes a few hours to wend your way
through the exhibits, it's quiet and subtly lit, you'll have a great
time.</span></span></span></span></em><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9dUPs9gIraJ6XMlcwqVVm_67AHJrQnIZbN1Zyo4l_jrqxZCZEX-uO9-KbTToz4SXIHGj-F_GG1vIOKvDYMJVpg0DvpNjCSjKZZzsGhwP6VDnKp0PlJLti9ebTZja_hWh-20psfm8aDmC/s1600/IMG_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sunset over Elba Island and the Piombino Lungomare." border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="1600" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9dUPs9gIraJ6XMlcwqVVm_67AHJrQnIZbN1Zyo4l_jrqxZCZEX-uO9-KbTToz4SXIHGj-F_GG1vIOKvDYMJVpg0DvpNjCSjKZZzsGhwP6VDnKp0PlJLti9ebTZja_hWh-20psfm8aDmC/s400/IMG_0046.JPG" title="Sunset over Elba Island and the Piombino Lungomare." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset over Elba Island and the Piombino <i>Lungomare</i>.</td></tr>
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<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">There
are remarkable sunsets on the coast, so save a little energy for an
evening stroll. The walkways along the sea will be filled with locals for the evening passeggiata to watch as the twilight colors the sky over the island of Elba. There are some nice places to get drinks and
buffet style snacks in the evening. We went to <u>Il Baccanale</u> for
dinner, and had excellent dishes, one of which was ravioli
filled with </span>burrata<span style="font-style: normal;"> and topped with local raw shrimp.</span></span></span></span></em></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8LzbCE-2JbRwVnfslpErccM6_iOkY0EXybGl5w0VEUaNmBySaa4MjPOXqmFXhg3OLJAD2rrsNn9gyp9qbiVUb3pRV4BTRy8pEZKueeQ7Py7Gru1pniYCdSRMbfkl8f76wPLntNnMy9IT/s1600/IMG_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Etruscan Tomb of the Bronze Fans Populonia Tuscany Italy" border="0" data-original-height="1039" data-original-width="1600" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8LzbCE-2JbRwVnfslpErccM6_iOkY0EXybGl5w0VEUaNmBySaa4MjPOXqmFXhg3OLJAD2rrsNn9gyp9qbiVUb3pRV4BTRy8pEZKueeQ7Py7Gru1pniYCdSRMbfkl8f76wPLntNnMy9IT/s400/IMG_0056.JPG" title="Etruscan Tomb of the Bronze Fans Populonia Tuscany Italy" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomb of the Bronze Fans (<i>Tombe dei Flabelli di Bronzo</i>) from about 630 BC.<br />
The tomb was found intact with jewelry, weapons, and kitchen utensils.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">The
ruins just up the coast were our focus for the next day. We drove up
to Populonia Alta, an old residential section of Piombino (which actually
has 17 residents) and, more usefully, a welcome center to </span></span></span></span></em><em><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">the
Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia. </span></span></span></span></em><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">There
is a tour of the ruins at the top of the hill, but a helpful guide at
the counter advised us that it probably wasn't a good choice for us
– she said, it's steep, it's long, it's only in Italian, and it's
very detailed. We've learned to listen to well meant advice, so we
thanked her and after a look at the stupendous view, went back down to the Welcome Center near the sea,
where parking is plentiful and the facilities good. We bought
tickets to see the tombs and access the hill areas. An unexpected
side benefit: buying a ticket to the museum the day before (6E, with
price reductions for over 65 and families) gave us a 50% discount
from the ticket to the necropolis site (9E or 16E, according to how
many sites you choose, with price reductions also available) What a
deal! </span></span></span></span></em>
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<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">The site has two main sections. The first is the lower area, a gently sloping hill in front of the Welcome Center, filled with
ancient above-ground tombs. The second is on a nearby wooded hillside. A pretty, winding trail connects the sites.</span></span></span></span></em><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWOAaXpdm66cmSklednsWvNnkvcLdejWhgagIsKpLJWgu_qjlrbjs-jVAv2Zvp2t-ZkMtAiIgCW1qKw_8qprHlN6RY2Ez6JVMboTqW9nQWpU6f0ygl7G3VGrrSMKMyv_GcoFCtwSE_wryA/s1600/IMG_20171029_104437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Etruscan Tomb of the Chariots (Tomba dei Carri) Populonia, Italy" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWOAaXpdm66cmSklednsWvNnkvcLdejWhgagIsKpLJWgu_qjlrbjs-jVAv2Zvp2t-ZkMtAiIgCW1qKw_8qprHlN6RY2Ez6JVMboTqW9nQWpU6f0ygl7G3VGrrSMKMyv_GcoFCtwSE_wryA/s320/IMG_20171029_104437.jpg" title="Etruscan Tomb of the Chariots (Tomba dei Carri) Populonia, Italy" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dome of the burial chamber of the Tomb<br />
of the Chariots (<i>Tomba dei Carri</i>) which.<br />
held parts of war and processional chariots.</td></tr>
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<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">In the lower area the most prominent and enormous site is the Tomb of the Chariot from around 850 BC. This restored tomb was for an aristocratic family and has been fully
restored. It features a domed roof and the structure is 28 meters (over 90 feet) in
diameter. It's normally kept locked, but there are frequent visits
facilitated by park guides, and we were lucky enough to be just in
time for one. The </span></span></span></span></em><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">door to the tomb is, unfortunately for the one of
us over 6 feet tall, rather short. In fact, you have to pretty much
bend over double and duckwalk through the corridor to the center
area. Inside are three rooms, two for precious and symbolic objects, and one for the dead with four individual resting places, funerary beds - like earthen camp beds. The remains would rest here, but perhaps not for eternity - in some eras it was just until later family members needed to begin their final journey.</span></span></span></span></em></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb51YLID4Ticp8JrAmy73xHAFlTvLNYoU3dfvJhPp-IoeKdXfAAGjIFDkT6SM-AeuTnAPfkWKfp8M-KVrWDyJMLp8RjZJ9ASSDeTwsnR1sLu9GZUt1JLQHLhZKu8wGtVOMd_waxLBai0Xk/s1600/DSCF3913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shrine Tomb Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia" border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb51YLID4Ticp8JrAmy73xHAFlTvLNYoU3dfvJhPp-IoeKdXfAAGjIFDkT6SM-AeuTnAPfkWKfp8M-KVrWDyJMLp8RjZJ9ASSDeTwsnR1sLu9GZUt1JLQHLhZKu8wGtVOMd_waxLBai0Xk/s320/DSCF3913.JPG" title="Shrine Tomb Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Shrine Tomb. Tomb architecture evolved over time.<br />
Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">Once
you come out (watch your head on those eaves!) you can wander freely
through the field of tombs, imagining the ceremonies and rituals, and
watching the sailboats glide by on the bay. The tombs are from several different Etruscan eras and the signage helps you understand the evolution of tomb building and their importance to Etruscan culture and religion. The signs are in both Italian and English. The overall effect is enchanting as you realize your human bonds to these ancient mortals.</span></span></span></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMR_bnqdgrHOwMlaa4M10FWl57f5P4qdHxhZkGsZct01Bq-5kzmfK9ha1S-dyd_hJbkW933pVJVdTkoUFpykRwKUH2lBEamEd2uK3l527gYeBRHNLFXurHFnQln0zist8VKKoB2NQ0j9w-/s1600/IMG_0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Populonia Underground Tomb carved from limestone" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMR_bnqdgrHOwMlaa4M10FWl57f5P4qdHxhZkGsZct01Bq-5kzmfK9ha1S-dyd_hJbkW933pVJVdTkoUFpykRwKUH2lBEamEd2uK3l527gYeBRHNLFXurHFnQln0zist8VKKoB2NQ0j9w-/s320/IMG_0071.JPG" title="Populonia Underground Tomb carved from limestone" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Populonia Underground Tomb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">Since
we wanted to see more, we bought some sandwiches at the park bar,
filled our water bottles, and headed off on the signed path through a field of
wildflowers to explore. When you reach the cool shade of the trees,
the land starts to rise. There are interesting botanical signs along
the way explaining different plant species. The trail is well trod, but gets a bit rougher as you climb.</span></span></span></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">Near
the top, the Vie Cave trail veers right, and the tombs start to reveal
themselves. These tombs are dug down into the hillside, accessed by
steep stone steps carved into the underlying limestone. They are impressively
deep, 20 feet or so, and at the shadowy bottom of the staircase is
the burial room where traces of the indents for sarcophagi still
survive. A few of the tombs are cordoned off, but you can climb down
into many of the sites.</span></span></span></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">There are beautiful views over the
countryside and to the sea from the trail which winds through the forest. You walk past several Etruscan quarry sites which now look like little overgrown cliffs. The Etruscan were good at quarrying stone blocks from this limestone for trading and for building. Soon the trail opens onto an overview of the largest quarry site which - in the manner of real estate developers of every age - was then re-purposed to build the <i>Necropoli delle Grotte</i>, a sort of tenement tomb. (Engineers should not miss the partially excavated limestone block on the side of the building.)</span></span></span><br />
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc09DPhnpBg5MrBmbpEBw8yX1YSUfryrAHzfHFvJF0ZrK5kNHKbPpWjuYodiXhlIR7CyU0KFTQcs55sHW9MI6yTHGVraJX-rtVE6kwgMYcVOKUyyF2Bdf_pXg2gta1G7s2gLJGacdLKopN/s1600/DSCF3921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Necropolis of the Grottos Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc09DPhnpBg5MrBmbpEBw8yX1YSUfryrAHzfHFvJF0ZrK5kNHKbPpWjuYodiXhlIR7CyU0KFTQcs55sHW9MI6yTHGVraJX-rtVE6kwgMYcVOKUyyF2Bdf_pXg2gta1G7s2gLJGacdLKopN/s400/DSCF3921.JPG" title="Necropolis of the Grottos Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Necropoli delle Grotte Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia</td></tr>
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<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">Naturally,
the shady walk down is always a pleasure. We visited in October, during a
warm pleasant spell, but the leaves were still green. Although summer will be warmer, Populonia is
right on the sea and it's very popular with beach goers and diving enthusiasts. The coast here is lined with sandy beaches, a few docks and businesses, but there is little development. As so often on the west coast of Italy, mornings
are fresher and more pleasant for hiking.</span></span></span></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></span></span></em>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></span></span></em>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><u>More Info</u></b></span></span></span></span></em><br />
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<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><a href="https://www.ancient.eu/Populonia/" target="_blank">Ancient History Encyclopedia on Populonia</a> </b></span></span></span></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></em>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><a href="https://www.marthasitaly.com/articles/31/populonia-etruscan-tombs" target="_blank">Martha's Italy in Populonia</a> </b> </span></span></span></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><a href="https://www.wanderingitaly.com/places/piombino-elba.html" target="_blank">Wandering Italy Piombino & Elba Island</a></b></span></span></span></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><a href="http://www.turismopiombino.it/home1187.html" target="_blank">Piombino Tourism Website</a></b></span></span></span></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><a href="http://www.parchivaldicornia.it/en/the-archaeological-park-of-baratti-and-populonia.html" target="_blank">Park of Baratti & Populonia Website</a></b></span></span></span></span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em>
<em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></span></em><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">Written by Martha, P</span></span></span></span></em><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">hotos by Mike. </span></span></span></span></em></div>
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Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-72377095292211691562018-02-13T08:00:00.005-05:002023-12-11T13:55:26.968-05:00 Every Answer You Need for Your Cinque Terre Trip.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Your Visit Made Easy with Our <u>Travel Guide to Cinque Terre</u>.</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Local Experts Answer 103 FAQ's.</h2>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b>Your fellow Italian travelers give clear answers on every Cinque Terre subject.</b></h3>
Get detailed info from experienced travelers on every aspect of the Cinque Terre. When to Go, How Long to Stay, What to See, Best Villages, Avoiding Crowds, Best Guidebook, Parking for the Cinque Terre, etc. We are Mike and Martha from Boston & Italy and we explain more about ourselves at the bottom of the article.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinBtMBb_kCGqNbURupK9-wsUTIqwemWyfpKR8XP_0CXWCMzrfKOubw4sn016q6c9P_TeX1R1uD73RvF85KgCrsaDkaR3J-cY90FSc_cyXCmMkS9J49aZCNvMqROVGg9aoM2GUu4c8DSWEd/s1600/Lorraine_Tan_Manarola.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Cinque Terre Village of Manarola in Twilight" border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinBtMBb_kCGqNbURupK9-wsUTIqwemWyfpKR8XP_0CXWCMzrfKOubw4sn016q6c9P_TeX1R1uD73RvF85KgCrsaDkaR3J-cY90FSc_cyXCmMkS9J49aZCNvMqROVGg9aoM2GUu4c8DSWEd/s400/Lorraine_Tan_Manarola.jpg" title="The Cinque Terre Village of Manarola in Twilight" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cinque Terre Village of Manarola in Twilight CC by Lorraine Tan</td></tr>
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You will have a great visit to Italy's Cinque Terre region. We will also help you decide if you should get a Cinque Terre Card; which food specialties to eat; find your favorite activity; allay mobility concerns; what to do with children; and even decide what to do if it rains.<br />
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You should know that, despite erroneous past news reports, there are <b style="text-decoration-line: underline;">no restrictions or quotas</b> or limits or required reservations for travelers to the Cinque Terre.<br />
<br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><b><u>Started in 2019</u></b></span> - appropriate hiking footwear is required - that means closed shoes with non-skid soles. No flop-flops or sandals. See the <b><u>What to See & Do</u></b> section below.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Category Index</span></b><br />
<b><u>Click</u> the Section Title to Jump Down</b><br />
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<b><u><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#What%20are%20the%20Cinque%20Terre" rel="nofollow">What are the Cinque Terre</a></u></b> Questions about the villages, the land, the fame, the trails.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#When%20to%20Go"><b><u>When to Go</u></b></a> . Weather, the temperatures, the crowds, off season, winter.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#How%20Long%20to%20Stay"><b><u>How Long to Stay</u></b></a> One day, Four Days,Ten Days.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#Cinque%20Terre%20Card%20&%20App"><b><u>Cinque Terre Card & App</u></b></a> Get the CT Card & the new Official Cinque Terre Park Hiking App.</div>
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#What%20to%20See%20&%20Do"><b><u>What to See & Do</u></b></a> Sights by Town, Activities, for you, for kids, for teens, in the rain.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#What%20&%20Where%20to%20Eat"><b><u>What & Where to Eat</u></b></a> Food specialties, Wine, Restaurant Suggestions,Veggie, Gluten-free.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#Information%20Questions"><b><u>Information Questions</u></b></a> Guidebooks, Maps, Language, Tour Guides, Websites.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#Metaphysical%20Questions"><b><u>Metaphysical Questions</u></b></a> The good, the bad, the missing, expense, crime, safety, gay-friendly.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#Cell%20phone,%20wifi,%20internet"><b><u>Cell phone, wifi, internet</u></b></a> Signal availability, apps, wifi & getting advice.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#Cars,%20Parking,%20Car%20Hire"><b><u>Cars, Parking, Car Hire</u></b></a> Driving advice, ZTL, dropping off & getting a rental car, parking advice.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#Limited%20Mobility%20Issues"><b><u>Limited Mobility Issues</u></b></a> Stairs, Access, Other lovely level Ligurian Towns.<br />
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Click <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kCVa0eEqcXlU&usp=sharing" target="_blank"><b>Liguria / Cinque Terre / Portofino Map</b></a> to see the Cinque Terre towns & nearby Base towns.<br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" name="What are the Cinque Terre"></a>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What are the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxhZ8z6Iw4OvPMc1x03sgYOJrQ4Gk441XefAKR2mFQoxzxwzrG3_aksSPiaOOP3djYMWOtvQ2hfhdHV5e7yT5pvhfyRZL4C91aJt3T3aImXR7FBkpmba4GCdds7OLnOZRejB3c1995LieU/s1600/2016-05-27+Lucca+CT+%252833%2529.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre hiking in May. Corniglia from trail 6D" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1214" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxhZ8z6Iw4OvPMc1x03sgYOJrQ4Gk441XefAKR2mFQoxzxwzrG3_aksSPiaOOP3djYMWOtvQ2hfhdHV5e7yT5pvhfyRZL4C91aJt3T3aImXR7FBkpmba4GCdds7OLnOZRejB3c1995LieU/s400/2016-05-27+Lucca+CT+%252833%2529.JPG" title="Cinque Terre hiking in May. Corniglia from trail 6D" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corniglia from trail 6d near Volastra in mid May</td></tr>
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The Cinque Terre are five small villages and the surrounding coastline in the region of Liguria, Italy. Because land access was (and is) difficult, there has been little modern development. As a result the dramatic, rugged coastline and the five little towns have a timeless romantic aspect. The Cinque Terre along with Portovenere is an Italian National Park and a United Nations' UNESCO World Heritage Site. The five villages have become extremely popular with tourists of every nation, and the Cinque Terre Park is a famous hiking destination thanks to its trails over the stunning seaside hills and through vineyards.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What are the five villages of the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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<li>Monterosso The largest village with the most services</li>
<li>Vernazza The most charming village but often crowded</li>
<li>Manarola Very photogenic with a tiny harbor</li>
<li> Corniglia High above the sea with the best views</li>
<li>Riomaggiore Characteristic and closest to La Spezia.</li>
</ul>
The historic neighboring town of Portovenere and nearby offshore islands including<br />
Palmaria are also included in the Cinque Terre UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.
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<b><u>Which Cinque Terre village is the best?</u></b></h4>
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<li>Vernazza is the prettiest and the cutest and the most evocative. </li>
<li>Manarola is the next prettiest and at its best at sunset. </li>
<li>Monterosso has the best accommodations and the best beach.</li>
<li> Corniglia has the best views. </li>
<li>Riomaggiore has characteristic towering buildings .</li>
</ul>
We think the result of a visitor popularity contest for Best Village results would be:<br />
1.) Vernazza 2.) Manarola 3.) Corniglia 4.) Monterosso 5.) Riomaggiore<br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b><u>Plan to Enjoy.</u></b></span><br />
You can have a great trip to the Cinque Terre, but you really must learn and plan. The numbers tell you why. There are <u>six million visitors each year</u> to these five small towns which have a total of 4,000 residents - more visitors per resident than Venice.* We have <u>specific advice below</u> to help you minimize the crowds you encounter. We are not travel writers, we are fellow travelers, so the answers here are intentionally frank. Bear in mind that some of our answers will reflect our orientation toward visitors coming to Italy from abroad on a trip of one to four weeks. We are recently retired photo editors Mike and Martha from Boston and we explain more about ourselves below.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">What are the Cinque Terre villages like?</span></u></b></h4>
<b><b style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b><u><span style="font-size: small;">Monterosso</span></u></b><b style="font-size: large;"> </b><span style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">The
largest little town with a resort feel & the most restaurants and
hotels. The only real beach in CT, some parking & the best train
connections. There's an old town and a new section and it's fairly
level. Monterosso has the most service and most activity in the Cinque Terre. </span></b></span></b></b></span></b></b><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/25818755@N08/galleries/72157678512828674/" target="_blank">What's It Like? - Our Monterosso Photo Gallery Link</a></b></b></span></b></b></span></b></span></b></b></span></b></span></b><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit;"><u><span style="font-size: small;">Vernazza</span></u><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></b><b style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">The p</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">rettiest,
most celebrated town with the most visitors. You really should see it.
Photographers love this town, especially at sunset, since the nearby hills
provide stunning views. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">While many consider Vernazza the best village in Cinque Terre, it's also the most crowded.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/25818755@N08/galleries/72157680109776550/" target="_blank">What's It Like? - Our Vernazza Photo Gallery Link</a></b></b></span></b></b></span></b></span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVakw-0kaOorilzVkBbKuI8s8xlRMebARpqnRfF8q3KROtHv7tHIV0r8rMBSnX6uu0JmuJmTw72I1WwAwEJUjThJUMfwef8jhtB9ScQB6gknSu1WtkUPfwrDbGc4EpqJo1154Eycl_NvbD/s1600/byscuits_Vernazza.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre village of Vernazza in early evening." border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVakw-0kaOorilzVkBbKuI8s8xlRMebARpqnRfF8q3KROtHv7tHIV0r8rMBSnX6uu0JmuJmTw72I1WwAwEJUjThJUMfwef8jhtB9ScQB6gknSu1WtkUPfwrDbGc4EpqJo1154Eycl_NvbD/s400/byscuits_Vernazza.jpg" title="Cinque Terre village of Vernazza in early evening." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vernazza in early evening. CC by Byscuit</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><u>Corniglia</u></b></span> The village sits prettily on a promontory high above the sea. </span>Corniglia has <span style="font-family: inherit;">an historic
church and is the least crowded, the quietest, and the smallest village in Cinque Terre. It's a climb from the train and the boat
doesn't stop here, but it's very romantic and the views are the
best.</span><br />
<b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/25818755@N08/galleries/72157678602050104/" target="_blank">What's It Like? - Our Corniglia Photo Gallery Link</a></b></span></b></b></span></b></b></span></b></b></span></b></div>
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<b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"></span></span></b></div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><u>Manarola</u></b></span>
The second most popular to explore, it's very photogenic &
colorful. Approached from the sea, the town seems to hang on a cliff.
Below there's a tiny harbor with quaint fishing boats and the famous
terraces loom nearby. Manarola has the best balance of beauty and services for visitors in the Cinque Terre.<b> </b></span><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/25818755@N08/galleries/72157680340835700/" target="_blank">What's It Like? - Our Manarola Photo Gallery</a></span></b></b></span></b><br />
<b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"></b></b></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u><span style="font-size: small;">Riomaggiore</span></u></b>
Closest to La Spezia & Portovenere, it's very characteristic.
Colorful stacked homes line the opening in the cliff and there's another wee harbor. Kayak rentals and small boat tours available here.</span><b style="font-family: inherit;"> </b>Riomaggiore has a good combination of access, beauty, and services.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/25818755@N08/galleries/72157679389382002/" target="_blank">What's It Like? - Our Riomaggiore Photo Gallery Link</a></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Many More FAQ's Below.</b></span><br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: medium;"><u style="font-weight: bold;">Where to Stay in Cinque Terre</u></span></h4>
<span style="color: #990000;">We use Booking.com because - Clear Cancellation Policy -Verified Reviews -Good Search Filters.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><b>Book Now!</b> Cinque Terre lodging fills early. Book early - cancel (within cutoff) if you find better</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b>Evaluate Base Towns</b> outside the Cinque Terre. We describe 14 possible cities & towns.</span><br />
<b><a href="http://part%201%20liguria%20hotel%20guide%20%26%20city%20selector/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">Link to: Part 1 (of 3) Liguria Hotel Guide & City Selector</span></a></b><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1IW-yp3CiE4C4MfoA8pi2PkPSk1QXqgG5Txmp6dR3nmMpwqHVbPRCaq4J3zp6Y_ZkqoFo8JqKv1BjdarfBrxmFFiEz1eQ3QUBqkN8oBLBX-8w3_dleglb6fCb92wR0yJg_64YdeTMk9bp/s1600/Nick_Grosoli_Riomaggiore.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre village of Riomaggiore in evening" border="0" data-original-height="795" data-original-width="1024" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1IW-yp3CiE4C4MfoA8pi2PkPSk1QXqgG5Txmp6dR3nmMpwqHVbPRCaq4J3zp6Y_ZkqoFo8JqKv1BjdarfBrxmFFiEz1eQ3QUBqkN8oBLBX-8w3_dleglb6fCb92wR0yJg_64YdeTMk9bp/s320/Nick_Grosoli_Riomaggiore.jpg" title="Cinque Terre village of Riomaggiore in evening." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riomaggio CC by Nick Grosoli</td></tr>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>How many people live in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
The total legal resident population is about 4,150 people. The population is much higher in summer, of course, as there are many second homes. Counts available from the Italian census are grouped by <i>comune</i> rather than village.<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li> Monterosso (the largest) 1,500</li>
<li> Vernazza (with Corniglia) 950</li>
<li> Riomaggiore (with Manarola) 1,700.</li>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">How do you pronounce Cinque Terre?</u><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What does Cinque Terre mean?</u></b></h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Cinque Terre is pronounced Chink-way Ter-ray. Cinque means 'five' and Terre is the plural of<i> terra</i> meaning 'earth' or 'land'. Thus Cinque Terre means 'five lands' in the sense of five territories. The term is plural when used in Italian, but in English it takes a singular verb when you mean the region and a plural verb when referring to the villages. It is sometimes written informally as '5Terre'.</div>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">Will I need a ticket or reservation to visit the Cinque Terre?</u><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;"><b>Are there limits or quotas on the number of visitors to the Cinque Terre?</b></u><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></h4>
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There are no general restrictions of any kind on visitors to the Cinque Terre villages or Park. No reservations are required and no admission is charged except for a few popular trails. The news stories of limitations on visitors were based on misinterpreted information and has been firmly refuted at every level.<br />
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Purchase of a Cinque Terre Card is required to hike several of the most popular trails, but the majority of trails are without fee. To insure an enjoyable experience, there are limits on the total number of hikers on a <u>few</u> sections of most popular Blue trail. See our information about the Cinque Terre Card below.<br />
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</h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<u>
Why visit the Cinque Terre?</u><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<u>What are the Cinque Terre famous for?</u></h4>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Cinque Terre is famous for five romantic villages and a stunning coastline. Three of the villages (Vernazza, Manarola, Riomaggiore) consist of hillside ranks of colorful old buildings around miniscule harbors and along a stream between large hills. One old village is on a hilltop (Corniglia) with views over hill and sea. The overall effect is a feeling that you've stepped back in time and the world is right again. The sight of the sea and of the looming green hills are always nearby as nature was always meant to be. In the early morning and in the evening, the golden light, the hills, the sea, and the villages provide images that are timeless and often magical. </span>The landscape surrounding the villages is an extraordinarily beautiful area of rugged hills meeting the sea and is often covered with terraced vineyards. The Park is a well known hiking destination with an extensive network of steep hilly trails with constantly stunning views.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What is the Cinque Terre Trail walk like?</u></b></h4>
The 'Cinque Terre Trail' is a misnomer, and there's no such trail. There is a network of dozens of trails crossing the breath-taking landscape of the Cinque Terre National Park. A few require the Cinque Terre Card - Trekking (see below), but most trails are free. The most popular trail is the Blue Trail (Trail #2), and the most popular section is from Vernazza to Monterosso. Note that some Blue Trail sections may be closed for repair, and that popular very often means crowded. To insure an enjoyable experience, there are limits on the total number of hikers on a <u>few</u> sections of most popular Blue trail.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvFzacF5oRGHfCUmgS-tvPiVIzf40aLMEkQDrP92fqq4m8FqWc50o-JjujLQh9joLGMWpGaViAQZqerzD3YMWjkjTKtVy6X-JZVFMk-AZpSbGSXJDOI4_FPpU5S1gyciKiZzyQirY3IZS/s1600/Vern+Dave+Nixen.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre village of Vernazza from above." border="0" data-original-height="490" data-original-width="734" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvFzacF5oRGHfCUmgS-tvPiVIzf40aLMEkQDrP92fqq4m8FqWc50o-JjujLQh9joLGMWpGaViAQZqerzD3YMWjkjTKtVy6X-JZVFMk-AZpSbGSXJDOI4_FPpU5S1gyciKiZzyQirY3IZS/s400/Vern+Dave+Nixen.jpg" title="Cinque Terre village of Vernazza from above." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vernazza from the trail to Monterosso CC by Dave Nixen</td></tr>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">Are the Cinque Terre hiking trails closed?</u></h4>
Emphatically no. There are dozens of Cinque Terre trails and only a few are closed at any given moment. Closure may be for temporary conditions or for repair work. Hikers should check trail closures before starting at: <b><a href="http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Esentieri-outdoor.php" target="_blank">Trail Status Update Cinque Terre National Park</a> </b>(hint - the big red circle means closed).<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Will the Via Amore (The Lover's Path) be open when we visit Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
No, the latest estimate (March 2023) for the opening of the Via dell'Amore is spring, 2024! The Via dell'Amore is part of the Blue Trail #2 and it was closed after a rockfall in 2012. However, there are other trails open to visitors that provide many equally beautiful views. The Welcome Center personnel in any Cinque Terre village can point you to the trail best for you. Read more: <b><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/10/the-via-dellamore-is-reopening.html" target="_blank">Cinque Terre's Path of Love Is Reopening</a> </b><br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" name="When to Go"></a>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-size: x-large;">When To Visit</b></h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>When should we visit the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
The Cinque Terre has a moderate climate so visits between late March and late October are most enjoyable. That period is when the ferries are running, the restaurants and hotels are all open. The landscape is green and pretty and the sea is on its best behavior.<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>When is the best weather for visiting the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLrPYmsMVInTA80m83ESp43pD-NFBRxLynUGeCQbs8TM0xyBORjPeoBcCUzs5VMkcnVi_mzKj7f3u26CeHEuiBrnOo_gKBcVt-13DSLf_xV16tMARAqoYtY49UQgQ6nCFxJTdRu5fA9n71/s1600/24+April+2013+Fucecchio+017.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lerici on the Gulf of La Spezia in spring" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLrPYmsMVInTA80m83ESp43pD-NFBRxLynUGeCQbs8TM0xyBORjPeoBcCUzs5VMkcnVi_mzKj7f3u26CeHEuiBrnOo_gKBcVt-13DSLf_xV16tMARAqoYtY49UQgQ6nCFxJTdRu5fA9n71/s400/24+April+2013+Fucecchio+017.JPG" title="Lerici on the Gulf of La Spezia in spring" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring in Liguria. Taken April 24 in Lerici, 8 miles from Cinque Terre.</td></tr>
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Spring has the best weather for visiting the Cinque Terre. The period from April 20 to June 10 is ideal. Spring has arrived, and it's glorious. Before that time, rain is somewhat more likely, and after that heat is more likely. Second best is Sept. 10 to October 10 as the heat has passed and stormy weather is not too likely. We have given more details in our story:<b> <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2013/04/spring-weather-in-liguria.html" target="_blank">Spring Weather in Liguria</a>. </b><br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<u>Is it too hot to visit Cinque Terre in the summer? </u></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Is Cinque Terre too hot in June, July and August?</u></b></h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You can have a very enjoyable summer visit to the Cinque Terre. From June through August, the normal temperatures are not excessive. Since it's near the sea and surrounded by hills, it is typically more pleasant than inland areas such as Florence. However, the Cinque Terre sometimes can get uncomfortable for physical exercise and sleeping without air conditioning, so be ready to adapt your activities to suit if needed. Hikers should remember that Cinque Terre has a western exposure, so afternoons will be warmer than mornings.<br />
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In July & August of 2017 - a record hot year in Italy - the weekday high temperature at La Spezia hit 32C (90F) only seven times and 33C (92F) just once. The low temperature on many of those days was 22C (72F). Cinque Terre would usually be a tad cooler and breezier than La Spezia. <b><a href="https://www.ilmeteo.it/portale/archivio-meteo/La+Spezia/2017/Agosto" target="_blank">La Spezia Weather Stat Archive</a>.</b></div>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What will the temperature be for our visit to Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
It is a temperate climate with moderately warm summers and cool winters. Summers are dry, and winters are characterized by rainy periods sometimes lasting several days. Freezing temperature are unusual, and snow is very rare. Useful weather statistics are here <b><a href="http://www.holiday-weather.com/cinque_terre/averages/" target="_blank">Cinque Terre Weather Averages</a>.</b><br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>How can we avoid the crowds in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
Realistically, you are likely to encounter some crowding at times, but you can still have a very enjoyable trip. Informed travelers can manage the inconvenience by avoiding the most crowded dates, by arranging the day's schedule, by avoiding the main streets in midday, and by choosing activities away from the major attractions. See the next question - and we've written a special article to help: <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/03/cinque-terre-16-tips-for-avoiding-crowds.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Cinque Terre-16 Tips for Avoiding the Crowds</a>.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Which days are holidays in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>When are the most crowded holidays in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Some holidays are predictably crowded in the Cinque Terre and most visitors prefer to avoid those dates. When they occur in good weather the result can be total gridlock on some of the main streets and train stations. In 2017, 95,000 people visited these five small towns over the 3 day Easter weekend.** If possible, try not to schedule your trip around the following holidays and associated weekends: Holy Saturday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday; Liberation Day (April 25); May Day (May 1); Festa della Repubblica (June 2); Ferragosto/Assumption (August 15).<br />
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In <u>2020</u>, we'd try to avoid April 11, 12, 13, 25, 26; May 1, 2, 3; June 2; August 15, 16<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Is it too crowded to visit Cinque Terre in summer?.</u></b></h4>
The Cinque Terre are not universally crowded in summer, and you can have an enjoyable visit. There are some extra considerations. Try to avoid the main streets and train stations in mid-day. Because hotels and 2nd homes will all be occupied, the restaurants, cafes, and bars will be busier in the evenings and reservations or good timing are wise. The beaches will be busy almost every day, so arriving before mid-morning is a useful tactic.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Which Day is Most Crowded in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
Tuesday and Wednesday are often crowded midday due to large cruise ships landing in La Spezia on those morning each week beginning in early May. Sundays in good weather are often quite busy as well.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What time of day is the most crowded in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYiJoBoPEqb-_Y0Sjm_JZ9FrtDyANCkPpmCQKFObJEoJHT62vmRW9aM5FUurELrqZCyK1TiKYJj1tYJXXOOxcWlfKwA604YJLhtDc79HdbRkZvEsgyKHUNqb9Gh8DJZ6cSa_1jf1sqYnN/s1600/Man+Francine+Bidal.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Painting of Manarola in the Cinque Terre at sunset." border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYiJoBoPEqb-_Y0Sjm_JZ9FrtDyANCkPpmCQKFObJEoJHT62vmRW9aM5FUurELrqZCyK1TiKYJj1tYJXXOOxcWlfKwA604YJLhtDc79HdbRkZvEsgyKHUNqb9Gh8DJZ6cSa_1jf1sqYnN/s400/Man+Francine+Bidal.jpg" title="Painting of Manarola in the Cinque Terre at sunset." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manarola sunset - painters' & photographers' delight. CC by Francine Bidal</td></tr>
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The most congestion in the Cinque Terre occurs from 10 am to 4 pm and is concentrated on the trains stations and the main street. It is during those mid-day hours that most tours and daytrips occur. In compensation, many visitors mention how mornings are especially enjoyable in the Cinque Terre. The coastline faces west and there are mountains to the east, so the morning light is lovely and it is coolest then.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>When is off-season in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
With only slight exaggeration, there is no off-season in Cinque Terre. The Cinque Terre are always busy when it's worth going, and that's from April through October. Yes, March and November can have beautiful enjoyable weather, but they can also be wipeouts. We think those months are for visitors who can change their schedule according to weather forecasts. If you are planning a whole trip to Italy from abroad, it makes no sense to lock yourself in when the weather might be bad.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Should we visit Cinque Terre in December, January, February?</u></b></h4>
No, it's winter in the northern hemisphere (44 degrees latitude), and the place is practically deserted. Most hotels and restaurants are closed - for example, in the largest small town of Monterosso, only two restaurants and two bars stay open in January. The hotel rooms are often poorly heated, the streets are empty like a disaster movie, the landscape is dormant, windy rainstorms can make trails and streets a torment, there's no ferry service. The days are short (less than 9 hours in December) and there are no museums or events. The biggest draw is the lighted hillside <i>presepe</i> (nativity scene) in Manarola, and that happens in the dark. Visit when it's nice – that's why the place is famous.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>How Long To Visit.</b></span></h3>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>How many nights should we stay in Cinque Terre?</u></b><br />
<b><u>How much time do you need to see Cinque Terre?</u></b><br />
For most international visitors, we'd suggest between two nights and four nights for a visit to the Cinque Terre. That said, it really depends on the kind of trip you want (see the next questions). For a typical travel schedule, two nights means you'll have one whole day - plus an evening and a morning. You'll have time to take a morning hike, see several villages at your leisure, see two sunsets, and experience some of the land- and sea-scapes. With four days, you can linger in all the villages, take several hikes, visit Portovenere and perhaps La Spezia, rent a kayak or sunbathe, and revisit your favorite village at night.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Can I see the Cinque Terre in one day?</u></b></h4>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifZo9lAJYE5QF9EuKmdWH2Am1pqoAYPECC7-PHbP5jga0kdobkNOlCVrE9d-A_wIOFy3se07V84-nEE5uG4n6u5zzPoKz86Y_X8R-kJHKWEqR3Z6z2l0C-eACHnHe1NxIXCmX4yaTUeCie/s1600/2016-05-27+Lucca+CT+%252827%2529.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre Ferry heading toward Portovenere" border="0" data-original-height="1118" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifZo9lAJYE5QF9EuKmdWH2Am1pqoAYPECC7-PHbP5jga0kdobkNOlCVrE9d-A_wIOFy3se07V84-nEE5uG4n6u5zzPoKz86Y_X8R-kJHKWEqR3Z6z2l0C-eACHnHe1NxIXCmX4yaTUeCie/s320/2016-05-27+Lucca+CT+%252827%2529.JPG" title="Cinque Terre Ferry heading toward Portovenere" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinque Terre Ferry underway. Sun above, shade below.</td></tr>
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Yes, it's not optimum, but you can have a great one day visit to the Cinque Terre. You'll need to plan well, and try hard to arrive early. There's no need to see all five villages since they are similar in many respects. Arrive and leave by train and try to use the ferry between Cinque Terre villages to experience the sea and the landscape. Try some hiking to experience the Cinque Terre hills, even if you just walk up to a Sanctuary and down. We'd rank the villages thus for a short visit from best to good: Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia, Riomaggiore, Monterosso. Note that Corniglia is not a ferry stop, and is well uphill from the train station.<br />
If coming from Firenze, in 2023 the best train options to optimize time are the 7.54
Frecciargenta from Firenze Campo di Marte station arriving at La Spezia Centrale
at 09.37 and return on the 19.48 from La Spezia Centrale arriving at
Campo Di Marte at 21.29. These are not the only options but they are direct and discounted fares may be available
if booked on line in advance. Verify this info before acting.<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #000a12;"><br /></span></span>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
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<b><u>Is there enough to do for a week in Cinque Terre?</u></b><br />
Yes, more than a few people visit the Cinque Terre for a week or more, and not just hikers. Some people just want to decompress on Monterosso's beach, and some want to hike extensively. Others want to explore the Cinque Terre villages in detail and use them as a base for activity such as visiting historic Portovenere, hiking the island of Palmaria, enjoying the pretty little city of Lerici, eating lunch at Santa Margherita and walking to Portofino, visiting La Spezia's museums and waterfront, and more. Active travellers should also consider a home base outside the Cinque Terre such as Levanto or La Spezia because you may find better transport options, less crowding, more restaurants, and less expensive lodging. See our three <u>home base articles</u> starting here - <b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/02/hotel-recommendations-portovenere.html" target="_blank">Part 1: Liguria City Selector & Hotel Guide</a></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" name="Cinque Terre Card & App"></a>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Cinque Terre Card and Official Cinque Terre Park App</b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<b><u>What is the Cinque Terre Card (Trekking)?</u></b><br />
<h4>
<b><u>What is the Cinque Terre Card (Treno)?</u></b></h4>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbMTOKWEutBSrPYNC-Dv_3UZZuqJq7ruIQBPH8gJjjJT1RH1czESrUhmKt90VqNNI5QijG457h_tAapBpby2JFF1ZuX7YMke0RNztdRHuKXBomAPx4Sn2nOvxV1nyIRXoAfWqlG8ozLVdg/s1600/CT+Card.png" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Cinque Terre Card has two versions: Trekking & Train." border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbMTOKWEutBSrPYNC-Dv_3UZZuqJq7ruIQBPH8gJjjJT1RH1czESrUhmKt90VqNNI5QijG457h_tAapBpby2JFF1ZuX7YMke0RNztdRHuKXBomAPx4Sn2nOvxV1nyIRXoAfWqlG8ozLVdg/s320/CT+Card.png" title="The Cinque Terre Card has two versions: Trekking & Train." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cinque Terre Card has two versions: Trekking & Train.</td></tr>
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The Cinque Terre Card provides admission to the restricted popular trails, the Park's buses, wifi access near the trains, some Park events such as guided hikes and tours, and discounts in La Spezia's Museums. The Cinque Terre Pass comes in two forms, <b>Trekking</b> and <b>Treno</b> (Train)<b>. </b>The<b> </b>Treno Card adds unlimited train travel on the Levanto - Cinque Terre - La Spezia line to the Trekking Card's benefits. The cards are offered in different variations: 1 or 2 or 3 day; adult or child (4-12) or family or over 70. Not all possible combinations are offered.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>How much does the Cinque Terre Card cost?</u></b></h4>
Prices for the Cinque Terre Card from March 2022 for Adult were: <u>Trekking</u> 1 day €7.50, 2 day €14.50 <u>Treno</u> 1 day €18.20, 2 day €33.00, 3 day €47.00. There are lower prices for children and over 70 years old. There's also a special Family price. If you're an active visitor using the trains to get around, the Treno card is usually a value and it's really convenient. You <u>must</u> validate the Treno card on your first trip! For the latest: <a href="https://card.parconazionale5terre.it/en" target="_blank"><b>Cinque Terre Card Online</b></a>.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Where can I buy the Cinque Terre Card?</u></b></h4>
The Cinque Terre Cards are available online at the<b> </b><a href="http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Eindex.php" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">National Park Website</a> and at the <a href="http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Ecentri-visita.php" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Park Welcome Centers</a> in each of the five Cinque Terre villages as well as La Spezia and Levanto train stations. If you start hiking a restricted trail, you can also buy a Cinque Terre Trekking Card from the handsome employee at the checkpoint. Many Cinque Terre accommodations can provide guests with a discount voucher for use at a Park Welcome Center.<br />
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If you buy the Cinque Terre Treno card online, you must specify the applicable date(s) and then you do not need to validate the card upon first use. <b> </b>One advantage to buying the card online is avoiding waiting in line at the La Spezia or Levanto train station Welcome Center as many new arrivals need the Cinque Terre Treno card in order to take the train, especially in the morning.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What Does the new Cinque Terre Park App Do?</u></b></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7grskKUs-2zJUd2FdETNZflq7oAoud-1XF9HylB-FORLe6w1q7ZstnPq6MwylVFuzdMvlqFm_rTbjqjutb1P87Dm1-R6ZQRpFMkJDpj-PG6fiiZcVbLn0yexI3-GJdAHFH3fuTSRECWJ2/s1600/CT_mrseeber.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The tall colorful buildings of Riomaggiore" border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7grskKUs-2zJUd2FdETNZflq7oAoud-1XF9HylB-FORLe6w1q7ZstnPq6MwylVFuzdMvlqFm_rTbjqjutb1P87Dm1-R6ZQRpFMkJDpj-PG6fiiZcVbLn0yexI3-GJdAHFH3fuTSRECWJ2/s400/CT_mrseeber.jpg" title="The tall colorful buildings of Riomaggiore" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riomaggiore CC by Mrseeber</td></tr>
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The app is called<b> "Cinque Terre Hiking Guide"</b> and also<b> 'Pn5t Plus' </b>and <u>you want it</u> if you are doing ANY hiking in the Cinque Terre and you have a Smartphone or other suitable device with a GPS. It's available free for both Apple and Android devices in their respective stores and it carries the name and logo of '<i>Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre</i>'. The App allows you to see an overall trail map as well as individual trail maps and to <u>see your position on that trail</u>. The trails also have word descriptions (in English) illustrated with photos at key points, and other goodies including distances, elevations, where to get water, and dialing for assistance.<br />
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This app was previously known as 'Cinque Terre Hiking Guide VITOUR' and was developed by Charta srl. You may see the App referenced as such in Rick Steves' Guides.<br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" name="What to See & Do"></a>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">What to See and Do</span></b></h3>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>What sights are there to see in Cinque Terre?</u></b><br />
Besides Cinque Terre's fabulous seascapes and vine-covered hills and the villages themselves, visitors can enjoy some very old churches, sanctuaries, and fortifications. While the monuments of Cinque Terre are not famous or richly decorated, the wonder is that they were constructed by the efforts of villages even smaller those of today. Many were built over 600 years ago, almost 30 generations - before the discovery of America.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What is there to see in Monterosso?</u></b></h4>
<u>Church of San Giovanni Battista</u> constructed in the 1200s, in Gothic-Genovese style.<br />
Concrete statue of the Giant,<u> Il Gigante</u>, representing Neptune, the god of the sea.<br />
Statue of <u>San Benedetto d' Assisi</u>, located on a hill above old town.<br />
<u>San Francesco Church</u> with a painting of the Crucifixion by Van Dyck (early 1600's). Located on a hill between Fegina and old town, it makes a lovely climb as there are excellent views and one can see the iconic 400 year old <u>Capuchin Monastery</u> and the interesting <u>Monterosso cemetary</u>.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What is there to see in </u></b><b><u>Vernazza?</u></b></h4>
<u>Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia</u> in town, overlooking the sea.<br />
<u>Tower of the Doria Castle</u> is all that remains from a 13th C. castle that covered the whole hilltop. The origins of the tower are from the 11th C. It's located on a hill above the town and the small port.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What is there to see i</u>n</b><b> Corniglia?</b></h4>
<u>Oratory Santa Caterina</u> An oratory is a church sponsored by parishioners or a lay organization.<br />
<u>Parish of San Pietro</u> An important building in gothic Ligurian style from 1334. In the interior a baptismal basin from the XII century, the statues of the evangelists and a polyptych of the Masters of the Church.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What is there to see in</u></b><b><u> Manarola?</u></b></h4>
<u>Church of San Lorenzo</u> built in 1338 in Gothic Ligurian style incorporates an ancient watchtower.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDKQIw6q4rU_39zyt2oxM-laV9hG11k9Je817GQu4rg4jv4VRWtXE-N1YQL6edPmAFOBrFotb56e4_V6nOyqBvAS6hy9vbQEBbqAH-dK2dnP8acIiu_9S1kPOGxAiJOLzADK0QRgLUp5G/s1600/Riom+Rose+AmaSPeu.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Rose window 14th C.San Lorenzo Church, Riomaggiore Cinque Terre" border="0" data-original-height="745" data-original-width="1125" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcDKQIw6q4rU_39zyt2oxM-laV9hG11k9Je817GQu4rg4jv4VRWtXE-N1YQL6edPmAFOBrFotb56e4_V6nOyqBvAS6hy9vbQEBbqAH-dK2dnP8acIiu_9S1kPOGxAiJOLzADK0QRgLUp5G/s400/Riom+Rose+AmaSPeu.jpg" title="Rose window 14th C.San Lorenzo Church, Riomaggiore Cinque Terre" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose window from the 14th C. San Lorenzo, Riomaggiore<br />
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Photo by amalaspezia.eu</div>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What is there to see in</u> </b><b>Riomaggiore?</b></h4>
<u>Church of San Giovanni Battista</u>, built in the gothic manner in 1340.<br />
<u>Church of San Lorenzo</u> from 1338 with a beautiful rose window dating to the same period.<br />
<u>Castle of Riomaggiore</u> Substantial ruins of a castle built in 1260 (with excellent views).<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b style="text-decoration-line: underline;">What is The Way of the Sanctuaries (<i>La Via dei Santuari</i>)</b><u> in the Cinque Terre<b>?</b></u></h4>
The Way of the Sanctuaries is the name given to the fairly arduous trails connecting the five sanctuaries above each Cinque Terre village. It takes about 7 hours to walk The Way, which explains why it's more popular as a mountain bike excursion.<br />
However, it's very popular to walk to the Sanctuary above your favorite village as a hike with views.<br />
Above Monterosso, <u>Soviore Sanctuary</u> dating from 1244 AD, 400 m. above town, 90 min. or bus.<br />
Above Vernazza, <u>Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Reggio</u>, 1248 AD, 45 min. with a 225 ft. tall cypress tree.<br />
Above Corniglia, <u>Sanctuary of Nostra Signora delle Grazie</u>, 17th C. about 1 hour.<br />
Above Manarola, <u>Sanctuary of Nostra Signora della Salute</u>, 12th C.Romanesque, about 1 hour.<br />
Above Riomaggiore, <u>Sanctuary of Madonna di Montenero,</u> 9th C & 18th C. about 1 hr., panoramic views.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What is there to do in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What activities are available in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
Beside exploring the five Cinque Terre villages, viewing historic buildings, admiring the landscape, and eating great Italian food, major activities include hiking, biking, boating & kayaking, boat tours, diving, fishing, swimming, sunbathing, cooking classes. We give you specific ideas for inspiration below.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Is there Biking (Mountain Biking) in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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Bikes are available for rent at several locations in the Cinque Terre. You will need to inquire at one of the <a href="http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Ecentri-visita.php" target="_blank"><b>Park Welcome Centers</b></a><i> (Centri di accoglienza)</i> for current accurate information. We believe there are rentals at the train stations of Riomaggiore and Manarola as well as the uphill locations of Telegrafo, San Bernadino, and Volastra.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbnhfupUtIVIXKqSFlzXfoFwR9oQpZI9_9lxcs_CSM4mNrynfAkYUWo3ZmRfrCnmTwxLmgNW3UonkfguQC5KphmpmE5-RqSbMYFHxLeMLyZxTNNFrvNtpRAeQ1G7ypqjgm8n-xLcMa8t53/s1600/CT+Bill+Rand.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Enjoying a kayak rental in Cinque Terre" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbnhfupUtIVIXKqSFlzXfoFwR9oQpZI9_9lxcs_CSM4mNrynfAkYUWo3ZmRfrCnmTwxLmgNW3UonkfguQC5KphmpmE5-RqSbMYFHxLeMLyZxTNNFrvNtpRAeQ1G7ypqjgm8n-xLcMa8t53/s320/CT+Bill+Rand.jpg" title="Enjoying a kayak rental in Cinque Terre" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinque Terre Kayak Rental 1st & 2nd Mates.CC by Bill Rand</td></tr>
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Mountain biking is popular in Italy (often abbreviated as MTB) and numerous Cinque Terre hiking trails are adapted to it. The most active center for excursions is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montenero )<i>(Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero</i>) above Riomaggiore & Manarola. One popular route is called the the Way of the Sanctuaries (<i>La via dei Santuari</i>) which visits all five of Cinque Terre's sanctuaries (see Sights above) - though the real draw is the constant & staggering views. Again, inquire at one of the <a href="http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Ecentri-visita.php" target="_blank"><b>Park Welcome Centers</b></a><i> (Centri di accoglienza)</i> for current accurate trail information.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Are there Boat & Ferry Tours in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
The ferry is a great way to see the Cinque Terre coast. The ferry boat company operates between the Cinque Terre villages, and Portovenere, Lerici, and Levanto. There's no better or easier way to tour the famous coastline than with an on/off ticket (adults 39€, 2023). The ferry company also offers a Portofino / San Fruttuoso tour from Cinque Terre in July & August, as well as a short tour of Palmaria, Tino, & Tinetto Islands from Portovenere. For a limited budget, you'd see a good portion of the coast by taking the ferry between Manarola and beautiful Portovenere (18€, 2023) and then busing back to La Spezia. See all the times and fare possibilities here <b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/06/complete-cinque-terre-portovenere-la.html" target="_blank">Complete Cinque Terre Ferry Schedules</a>.</b><br />
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There are also numerous <b>private boat tours</b> available in Cinque Terre with varying agendas - sunset, lunch, remote swimming, tapas, at night, etc. The tours leave from all four seaside villages - from Monterosso (7 companies), Manarola (2), Vernazza (2), and Riomaggiore (1). While it's not necessary to book far in advance, availability is finite. Some companies with websites: <b> <a href="http://www.angelosboattours.com/home" target="_blank">Angelo's Boat Tours - Monterosso</a> <a href="https://www.enjoycinqueterre.com/" target="_blank">Enjoy Cinque Terre - Manarola</a> <a href="http://www.nordest-vernazza.it/" target="_blank">Nordest Vernazza</a> <a href="http://www.cinqueterredalmare.com/home.html" target="_blank">Cinque Terre dal Mare - Riomaggiore</a>.</b><br />
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<u><b>Are there Boat and Kayak Rentals </b><b>in the Cinque Terre?</b></u><br />
<b></b>There are many boat and kayak rental options in the Cinque Terre. They are great fun and very popular in good calm weather, it's only 5 miles (straight line) from Monterosso to Riomaggiore, another 6 mi. to Portovenere. See and read a description:<b> <a href="http://www.wildtrips.net/kayak-cinque-terre-portovenere.htm" target="_blank">Cinque Terre by Kayak</a></b>.<br />
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<u>Kayak</u> rentals are available from a number of companies in the four seaside villages (kayak & canoa/canoe can mean the same in Italy). Some examples: In Riomaggiore <b><a href="http://www.5terrediving.it/?o=home" target="_blank">5 Terre Dive Center</a> </b>does rentals as well as group kayak tours. In Manarola, <b> </b><a href="https://www.enjoycinqueterre.com/" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Enjoy Cinque Terre - Manarola</a> rents single and double kayaks. In Vernazza, there's<b> </b><a href="http://www.nordest-vernazza.it/" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Nordest Vernazza</a>, and in Monterosso there's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sambakayak/" target="_blank"><b>Samba Kayak</b></a> which also does paddle boats and snorkel equipment.<br />
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<u>Aluminum and Rubber Boats</u> with motors are available from <a href="http://www.cinqueterredalmare.com/home.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Cinque Terre dal Mare</a> in Riomaggiore. No license needed. The boats hold 3/4 people and cost 65 Euro plus fuel for 3 1/2 hours.<br />
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<u>A Ligurian Traditional Boat</u> called a <i>gozzo</i> can be rented if you are comfortable operating a 4.5m. boat with a 10 hp motor that holds 5 people. No license needed, about 90 Euro for 4 hours. See photos and rates at <a href="http://www.nordest-vernazza.it/" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Nordest Vernazza</a> in Manarola or <a href="http://www.cinqueterredalmare.com/home.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Cinque Terre dal Mare</a> in Riomaggiore.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9IDKKo9Fi8AcrNbCXRAyqe1FvKTGcLy8jO5LY6hw8Ovnsr7h7QK84hK0B0nGhAx-tUgEGmIDeXzwyyEH10W49nhaM9IyV51RPwv8PnIDklqIyMrQ6j0LJXA5Rey2EDInmbBvtRBnT5maJ/s1600/DIVE+Andrea+Actis+Oreglia+%25282%2529.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Enjoying a diving in Cinque Terre" border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="581" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9IDKKo9Fi8AcrNbCXRAyqe1FvKTGcLy8jO5LY6hw8Ovnsr7h7QK84hK0B0nGhAx-tUgEGmIDeXzwyyEH10W49nhaM9IyV51RPwv8PnIDklqIyMrQ6j0LJXA5Rey2EDInmbBvtRBnT5maJ/s320/DIVE+Andrea+Actis+Oreglia+%25282%2529.jpg" title="Enjoying a diving in Cinque Terre" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinque Terre waters are a Marine Protected Area<br />
CC by Andrea Actis Oreglia </td></tr>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<u><b>Is there diving</b><b> in the Cinque Terre?</b></u></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<u><b>Is there a Dive Center </b><b> in the Cinque Terre?</b></u></h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The Cinque Terre is an excellent dive location and popular with Italian and visiting divers because it's a Marine Protected Area. The most active dive center is <b><a href="http://www.5terrediving.it/?o=home" target="_blank">5 Terre Dive Center</a> </b>in Riomaggiore within the Protected Area. They have excursions available and also rent dive and snorkle equipment as well as giving dive lessons.</div>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<u><b>Is there fishing</b><b> in the Cinque Terre?</b></u></h4>
In Riomaggiore, a traditional Ligurian boat called a <i>gozzo</i> with captain suitable for up to 6 people can be chartered for sport fishing, equipment included. Information at <a href="http://www.cinqueterredalmare.com/home.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Cinque Terre dal Mare</a>.<br />
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Fishing on your own requires a license. While they are not expensive or difficult to obtain, it requires too much time for a temporary visitor.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<u><b>What Hiking</b><b> is available in the Cinque Terre?</b></u></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What do I need to know about hiking </u></b><b><u> in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Hiking in scenic Cinque Terre is a walking dream and there is an extensive network of trails. The hills are steeper than many visitors expect, so keep your expectations realistic. You also need proper footwear - see the next question.<br />
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See the <u>Information</u> section below for a good Cinque Terre <u>hiking map</u> link and above is <u>Cinque Terre Card</u> info. See the <u>Cell Phone, Wifi, Internet</u> section below for a description of the Park's <u>Cinque Terre Hiking App</u>. And before you set out, check the <b><a href="http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Esentieri-outdoor.php" target="_blank">Trail Status Update Cinque Terre National Park</a> </b>(hint - the big red circle means closed).<br />
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<b><u>What footwear is required or not allowed for hiking?</u></b><br />
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To reduce accidents, the Park now requires closed shoes with non-skid soles on the trails. This means a trekking shoe, sneaker (trainer) or other closed shoe with a non-smooth soles. Not allowed are flip-flops, sandals including Birkenstocks, open-toed shoes, leather shoes with smooth soles. The Park has threatened fines, but that is highly unlikely. However, we have read that non-conforming hikers <u>have been turned back</u> at some trail checkpoints.</div>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Where is the best camping in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
There are no campgrounds or camp sites in the Cinque Terre and it's against Park regulations to go wild camping or rough camping. There are campgrounds in Levanto and other towns just up the coast from Cinque Terre. One in Levanto is called Camping Acqua Dolce. There are campground listings are here - <b><a href="https://www.camping.it/en/liguria/" target="_blank">Camping.it Liguria</a>.</b><br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Can you swim in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Can we sunbathe in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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Yes, Cinque Terre has a good beach in Monterosso and a bit of beach in Vernazza and you'll also see people sunbathing on random seaside rocks. The water is quite clean and the Cinque Terre is usually awarded the <i>Banda Blu</i> (blue flag) given to Italy’s cleanest beaches. Italy has also designated the waters around Cinque Terre as a Marine Protected Area. The water is warm enough for immersion swimming usually from May through most of October, and for sunbathing the weather is often warm enough also in March, April, and November. <b><a href="https://www.seatemperature.org/europe/italy/la-spezia.htm" target="_blank">La Spezia Sea Temperatures</a></b></div>
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<h4>
<b><u>What's there to do for children in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
<h4>
<b><u>Is the Cinque Terre kid friendly?</u></b></h4>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXuXCiG7l8ziv2p9eXcxDyhCN8JWdfiZt-mzFS3Bfphh44U-x1hCyiFot_UfiOpPuxQXceAwXiRhi7nryxtun_7NkWzmH3g-iq4qzjTF81sqmRgyCvJM7XQTTtDH2VvogeG0Hg-yJVM0f/s1600/CT+Lauren+Rauk.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Visiting Cinque Terre with children" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXuXCiG7l8ziv2p9eXcxDyhCN8JWdfiZt-mzFS3Bfphh44U-x1hCyiFot_UfiOpPuxQXceAwXiRhi7nryxtun_7NkWzmH3g-iq4qzjTF81sqmRgyCvJM7XQTTtDH2VvogeG0Hg-yJVM0f/s320/CT+Lauren+Rauk.jpg" title="Visiting Cinque Terre with children" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riomaggiore Children's Rock Art CC by Lauren Rauk</td></tr>
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For children, there are not very many amusements in Cinque Terre we can list. There's the beach in Monterosso and a patch of beach in Vernazza. There's hiking, of course, but the trails are generally steep and it can be hot, so age appropriate prudence is needed. Both the Castle of Riomaggiore and the ancient tower of the Castle Doria tower in Vernazza offer great views and you can indulge all those castle fantasies. Fortunately, the streets in all the villages are almost all car free, so you can give children some space. Taking the ferry should also be a kid-calming adventure. Here's the only actionable article we found about kids in the Cinque Terre: <a href="https://cinqueterreinsider.com/2015/05/12/traveling-with-kids-how-best-to-enjoy-the-cinque-terre/" target="_blank"><b>Traveling with Kids? How Best to Enjoy the Cinque Terre</b></a><br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Are there playgrounds</u></b><u><b> in the Cinque Terre?</b></u></h4>
There are playgrounds in each of the Cinque Terre towns. In Manarola, the playground is uphill from the center and includes a view. In Vernazza, the playground is uphill from the train station, There are two playgrounds in Monterosso, one in Fegina (new part) and one in the old part near the main piazza. In Corniglia and Riomaggiore you may have to ask, and the phrase <i>parco giochi</i> may work better than playground. Levanto has a playground in center of town near the beach.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Is there biking for children in the Cinque Terre? </u></b></h4>
<b></b>It's generally too steep for kids' biking in the Cinque Terre except perhaps for some upslope trails which run parallel to the coast. Inquire at the Welcome Centers.<br />
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However for school age kids, just north by train in Levanto, you can rent bikes to explore the unique <i>pista ciclabile</i> (bikeable path). This is a flat, paved bike trail along the sea and largely through old (1874) rail tunnels from Levanto to Bonassola to Framura. It's 5.5 km long, and your energetic 10 year old can easily do it in 30 minutes each way. It's also enjoyable as a walk - the tunnels are cool and shady on a hot day and at some points provide different viewpoints on the town and the sea.<br />
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The four rental bike shops in Levanto are:<b> <a href="http://www.cicliraso.com/" target="_blank">Cicli Raso</a></b>, Via Garibaldi 63, near Piazza Cavour; <u>Onda Sport</u>, Via Mazzini; <u>Sensa Freni</u> Bike Shop, Piazza del Popolo 1;<u> Tina e Mario Shop</u>, Corso Roma 3. Rental prices are from 10-15 E per bike per whole day.<br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What's there to do for teens in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
Besides the beach and hiking, there are boat rentals and mountain bike rentals described above in several of the villages for older teens. In Riomaggiore there are guided group kayak tours available at <b><a href="http://www.5terrediving.it/?o=home" target="_blank">5 Terre Dive Center</a></b>. The Cinque Terre are very safe places in terms of crime, so you can feel (relatively) comfortable letting them go off on their own.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What can we do on a rainy day in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMjt7RGR02k9dhMJ99o-AQY0RA-QBQ93RXk3qSEGdWHl0jCMF58HAq_GQtapawZDilW1GsbIcYBmfMvDpuUfsI6SALgV2ciJaOHCHP4HnT9yX1LdE5kLorIA4SWpV88X3uhuVePzhcLld/s1600/2014-June-04+Forte+Lia+059a.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Visiting Cinque Terre when it rains" border="0" data-original-height="1568" data-original-width="1600" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMjt7RGR02k9dhMJ99o-AQY0RA-QBQ93RXk3qSEGdWHl0jCMF58HAq_GQtapawZDilW1GsbIcYBmfMvDpuUfsI6SALgV2ciJaOHCHP4HnT9yX1LdE5kLorIA4SWpV88X3uhuVePzhcLld/s320/2014-June-04+Forte+Lia+059a.jpg" title="Visiting Cinque Terre when it rains" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Renaissance Collection Lia Museum La Spezia</td></tr>
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If it's just a passing shower or a light drizzle, take the ferry or train to explore another Cinque Terre village. The ferry also allows you to reach historic <u>Portovenere</u> on the Gulf of La Spezia where there's a castle and quite a different atmosphere <b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/09/portovenere-travel-guide-top-ten.html" target="_blank">Portovenere Travel Guide</a></b>. If it's a steady rain, take the train to La Spezia, Chiavari, or Genoa. <u>La Spezia</u> has shopping and several interesting museums such as the Lia Museum with excellent Renaissance paintings and the Naval Museum. Your Cinque Terre card includes a discount for many of La Spezia's museums. See this article: <b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/06/la-spezia-travel-guide-top-ten.html" target="_blank">La Spezia Travel Guide</a>. </b> <u>Chiavari</u> has sidewalk arcades protected from the weather with nice specialty shops, cafes, and restaurants. <u>Genoa</u> has an amazing old town of tiny streets. There's also a world-class Museum row, Europe's largest Aquarium (by Renzo Piano), a Museum of the Sea with a WWII submarine, an indoor food market (mostly in the morning), as well as shopping and cafes. <b style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="http://www.visitgenoa.it/en/luoghi%20da%20scoprire" target="_blank">Visit Genoa Official Website</a>.</b><br />
<u><b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#top">BACK TO INDEX</a></b>
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" name="What & Where to Eat"></a>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>What and Where To Eat</u></b></span></h3>
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<b>What can I eat in Cinque Terre?</b></u><br />
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<b><u>What are the local Cinque Terre food specialties?</u></b></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xwvAuP7pUmLB0Vdq8nhhzHh71Jt5c43jFD3R3_wGzBLtBshvP4Ij_s4CQUX2C2rX0jxvVXGBa2pUnQctGbf2GURUQyoA9jnOVqKKNsh63q2HUkbV3chAhw6fWxkAu-mtIq5DHP97wNxp/s1600/CT+Bryan+Sereny.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre wine to try" border="0" data-original-height="1062" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xwvAuP7pUmLB0Vdq8nhhzHh71Jt5c43jFD3R3_wGzBLtBshvP4Ij_s4CQUX2C2rX0jxvVXGBa2pUnQctGbf2GURUQyoA9jnOVqKKNsh63q2HUkbV3chAhw6fWxkAu-mtIq5DHP97wNxp/s320/CT+Bryan+Sereny.jpg" title="Cinque Terre wine to try" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Don't leave the castle without drinking our little wine<br />
It's called sciacchetrà and it brings such happiness.'<br />
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<span style="text-align: right;">Cinque Terre street sign CC by Bryan Sereny</span></div>
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The unique Cinque Terre specialties are Sciacchetrà wine and Monterosso Anchovies (<i>Acciughe di Monterosso</i>), and you really should try both, just not together please. Liguria is the original home of both pesto and <i>focaccia</i> and they are sublimely different here. Look for the authentic version of pesto which includes green beans and potatoes. However, there are also other fabulous Ligurian dishes you'll want to try - such as <i>farinata </i>(chickpea flatbread) and <i>mesciua </i>(a mixed legume soup) and<i> torta di vedura</i> (vegetable pie). We have an article to help you digest all this: <b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/06/a-guide-to-local-food-of-la-spezia.html" target="_blank">A Guide to the Local Food Specialties of La Spezia</a>.</b><br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What wines are made in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
Two wines from the Cinque Terre vineyards have been awarded DOC status. Sciacchetrà DOC wine is made from grapes left on the vine until dried and is often enjoyed with cheese or dessert. Cinque Terre DOC is a gentle blended white wine from the green terraced hills you admire while drinking it. You may wish to also try a local Vermentino. This white wine variety is thought to be native to Liguria and Sardinia, and it's tasteful and perfectly balanced - lovely as an aperitif and with many lighter local dishes. You find it as an optional grape in a blended Cinque Terre DOC and unblended in local Cinque Terre wines or from the nearby Colli di Luni Vermentino DOC. <b><a href="http://www.wanderingliguria.com/articles/13/cinque-terre-the-wines-of-the-cinque-terre-including-vernazza-sciacchetra" target="_blank">Wandering Liguria on Cinque Terre Wine</a></b><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwsFLEWYfWfBsryzCjI9EOatWauzyG9Hi1eY_rWcd1QIFCCZfpY5shL47aMWjSTdB8PRYoaTu69ZZmntbmQ0pa-0ctrNoIs0Uwizg1GUSkxEbryj75NvqED0R4OQ1pl3Ii4mKd-2zJvbGK/s1600/Carrara+Cozze+9+June+2012+140.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Special foods of Cinque Terre" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwsFLEWYfWfBsryzCjI9EOatWauzyG9Hi1eY_rWcd1QIFCCZfpY5shL47aMWjSTdB8PRYoaTu69ZZmntbmQ0pa-0ctrNoIs0Uwizg1GUSkxEbryj75NvqED0R4OQ1pl3Ii4mKd-2zJvbGK/s320/Carrara+Cozze+9+June+2012+140.JPG" title="Cinque Terre food specialties" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">La Spezia mussels <i>(cozze or muscoli</i>) are famous in Italy.</td></tr>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Which Restaurant in Cinque Terre to celebrate our anniversary or a birthday?</u></b></h4>
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The two most mentioned restaurants for celebrating anniversaries and special events in the Cinque Terre are '<a href="http://www.ristorantemiky.it/index.html" target="_blank"><b>Ristorante Miky</b></a>' and <a href="https://www.ristorantetortuga.it/" target="_blank"><b>Ristorante L'Ancora della Tortuga</b></a> both in Monterosso.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>What's the Best Restaurant in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
Best depends on the diner. Cinque Terre restaurants with full menus of different types we've seen referenced multiple times are <a href="http://www.ristorante-belvedere.it/" target="_blank"><b>Ristorante Belvedere</b></a> and <b>L'Osteria</b> in Monterosso, <b><a href="http://ilpiratarooms.com/eng_home.html" target="_blank">Il Pirata</a> </b>and<b> <a href="http://www.ristorantebelforte.it/it/ristorante-vernazza-cinqueterre-liguria.php" target="_blank">Belforte</a></b> in Vernazza, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cantinademananan/" target="_blank"><b>Osteria a Cantina de Mananan</b></a> in Corniglia, <b><a href="https://www.nessundormacinqueterre.com/" target="_blank">Nessun Dorma</a> </b>and<b> <a href="http://www.trattoriabilly.com/" target="_blank">Trattoria dal Billy</a></b> in Manarola, and <b></b><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Rio-Bistrot-1678975415668952/" target="_blank">Rio Bistrot</a></b> in Riomaggiore.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><u>What can a vegetarian eat in Cinque Terre?</u></span></h4>
In Cinque Terre, there will be vegetarian choices at every restaurant with a full menu, even though there is no exclusively vegetarian restaurant. Traditional Ligurian dishes are often vegetarian. Some examples are pesto with pasta<i> </i>(often with <i>trofie</i> - a local pasta), <i>pansotti </i>(a type of cheese filled ravioli) usually with nut sauce, pasta with <i>funghi</i> (mushrooms) and ravioli filled with <i>boragine</i> (a tasty green). Frequently, pasta shapes are offered with a choice of sauce including <i>marinara</i> (simple tomato) or butter-and-sage. There will be salad and vegetable sides, possibly vegetable pie, and there are often soups such as minestrone and the local specialty <i>mesciua</i>. Focaccia with different toppings may be offered, however it is sometimes made with lard, so you should ask. As a street snack, if you're lucky enough to find <i>farinata</i> you will be enchanted by this chickpea magic.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfdVz2S3i0Scaaj3rzooMvSqddFKjgypWx0eHvybuWTKafMOfSkxVmTaei5cnPtGkwJCnKzrd9Ct99CCG46AI0i5xkUegX74Z5D_p26ivqnLVyu2xVRuTaCplb7d-xDUF5ZYBz7KEnFlD/s1600/IMG_0003+%25282%2529.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Gluten-free pizza & gluten-free beer for celiacs in Italy" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1475" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfdVz2S3i0Scaaj3rzooMvSqddFKjgypWx0eHvybuWTKafMOfSkxVmTaei5cnPtGkwJCnKzrd9Ct99CCG46AI0i5xkUegX74Z5D_p26ivqnLVyu2xVRuTaCplb7d-xDUF5ZYBz7KEnFlD/s320/IMG_0003+%25282%2529.JPG" style="cursor: move;" title="Gluten-free pizza & gluten-free beer for celiacs in Italy" width="294" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><u>Gluten-free beer and pizza notice in shop window.</u></td></tr>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Do restaurants offer gluten-free dishes for diners with celiac disease in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
Yes, gluten-free offerings are widespread in Italy and the Cinque Terre. Many full menu restaurants will have a couple of special gluten-free options, and others will offer to adapt menu items on request. Specialty food outlets such as pizzerias very often have special dishes for '<i>celiaci</i>'. The BEST NEWS: the Ligurian specialty street food<i> farinata</i> made from chickpeas is gluten-free. Available for sure in Monterosso on Via Gioberti and in Manarola at Pizzeria La Cambusa.<br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" name="Information Questions"></a>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Information Questions</u></span></b></div>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
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<b><u>What's the best guidebook for Cinque Terre?</u></b></div>
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<b style="font-weight: 400;"><u><br /></u></b><span style="font-weight: 400;">First, buy your Cinque Terre guidebook before you arrive as you won't easily find them in Italy. For a guidebook dedicated to Cinque Terre, we think the best by far is </span><b>Rick Steves Pocket Cinque Terre</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> which also covers Portofino. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Pocket Cinque Terre info is also included in </span><b>Italy Rick Steves </b><b>2020</b><b> </b><b> </b><span style="font-weight: normal;">which is</span><b> </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">Amazon’s best selling Italy guidebook.</span><br />
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For <b>Complete Italy Guidebook Reviews</b>, see our helpful article: <b><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/best-italy-guidebooks-2019-reviewed.html" target="_blank">Best Italy Guidebooks 2020 Reviewed.</a></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMBNGHCwRlSbHJn5KGItjf5xBmfRRFkM2AEYD8oYRNmOh9duXVOGFQ7ZKeFTGDyDft_UyRYC_266Y74nN8hbt6BDyIHQS7UU3s0RJsX6hEuCLBc3vMd_6i07xvtGbZhs-uQjYpOvieL2Z/s1600/CT+Joseph+Hunkins.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre boat on village street" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="778" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMBNGHCwRlSbHJn5KGItjf5xBmfRRFkM2AEYD8oYRNmOh9duXVOGFQ7ZKeFTGDyDft_UyRYC_266Y74nN8hbt6BDyIHQS7UU3s0RJsX6hEuCLBc3vMd_6i07xvtGbZhs-uQjYpOvieL2Z/s400/CT+Joseph+Hunkins.jpg" title="Cinque Terre boat on village street" width="303" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><u>Fishing boats hauled ashore. CC by Joseph Hunkins </u></td></tr>
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<h4 style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;">
<b><u>Will they speak English in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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Virtually everyone you encounter in stores and services in Cinque Terre will speak passable to excellent English.</div>
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<h4 style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;">
<b><u>Do we need an Italian phrasebook?</u></b></h4>
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<span style="font-weight: 400;">You don't need a phrasebook just for the Cinque Terre, but if your Italy trip is longer we recommend </span>Rick Steves Italy Phrase Book & Dictionary<span style="font-weight: 400;"> . However, the more Italian you know, the more enjoyable your trip: interacting with Italians is great fun. We recommend you at least learn correct Italian pronunciation - it's quite easy - and then you and the waiter can relax. For learning more, look for an online course or </span>Pimsleur Conversational Italian<span style="font-weight: 400;"> .</span></div>
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<h4 style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;">
<b><u>Where is there a Tourist Information Center in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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There is a tourist information center in each of the five Cinque Terre villages as well as at the train stations in La Spezia and Levanto. All the offices are listed here: <a href="http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Ecentri-visita.php" target="_blank"><b>Park Welcome Centers</b></a><i> (Centri di accoglienza). </i></div>
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<h4 style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;">
<b><u>What are the best websites for Cinque Terre information?</u></b></h4>
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<u>General.</u> The most direct source is the official Park website <a href="http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Eindex.php" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Cinque Terre National Park</a>. It has the most current info and it's good for trail updates, welcome office listings, and more. Unfortunately it's not comprehensive, but it can be useful. See our <b><u>Cell Phone, Wifi, Internet</u></b> section regarding the Park's free App, <u>'Cinque Terre Hiking Guide'</u>.</div>
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<h4 style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;">
<b><u>Where can I get questions about Cinque Terre answered?</u></b></h4>
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<u>Transportation Questions.</u> If you can't solve your Cinque Terre transport problem, the TripAdvisor <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowForum-g2625472-i25439-Liguria.html" target="_blank"><b>Liguria Forum</b></a> or<b> <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowForum-g187768-i20-Italy.html" target="_blank">Italy Forum</a></b> has some very knowledgeable followers.</div>
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<u>Itinerary Questions.</u> If you have an itinerary quandary, the fellow travelers on the <a href="https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/italy" target="_blank"><b>Rick Steves Italy Forum</b></a> have sensible ideas if you can't find the answer via the search function. The TripAdvisor Forums mentioned above are also useful. More specific questions usually receive more responses. Try the challenge - 'Improve my itinerary, please.'</div>
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<h4 style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;">
<b><u>Should we take a tour of Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggSyrvQVXFqZ6d9BjU75PFVivkPD-46tB4Ym3rmFm6enLn7FNoR03TSBx8sjgjMrkdJK2uaqWrP4I84aDPImbQ_Qj_d30RXq-LtfKOxGAzuBZ5z1J77lVcX5bkkMjA1C_ujAD0b1hHBEp4/s1600/VERN+Raffaele+Sergi.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vernazza in Cinque Terre and the Mediterranean from the trail." border="0" data-original-height="1378" data-original-width="919" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggSyrvQVXFqZ6d9BjU75PFVivkPD-46tB4Ym3rmFm6enLn7FNoR03TSBx8sjgjMrkdJK2uaqWrP4I84aDPImbQ_Qj_d30RXq-LtfKOxGAzuBZ5z1J77lVcX5bkkMjA1C_ujAD0b1hHBEp4/s400/VERN+Raffaele+Sergi.jpg" title="Vernazza in Cinque Terre and the Mediterranean from the trail." width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vernazza CC by Raffaele Sergei </td></tr>
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The Cinque Terre itself is quite easy to do without a tour - there are no places that you cannot access yourself. Read about the villages and the area you'll be visiting, get a good guide book and go. The area is well marked and English is understood. The chief reason to use a tour would be for arranging hotels and meals and transportation to and from the Cinque Terre area. That said, tens of thousands of travelers make those Cinque Terre arrangements themselves each season.</div>
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<b><u>Do we need a Private Guide for Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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No, there are few secrets in the Cinque Terre, and most folks can learn enough from guidebooks and internet reading to have a complete experience. You also will not have any trouble finding your way around as the signage is good. If you prefer a guide to explore, have a group or an unusual agenda, here are some qualified, licensed guides for Cinque Terre:</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.cinqueterretour.it/en/information/about-cttours.html" target="_blank">Umberto Cattani CT Tours</a> <a href="http://www.turismoinlunigiana.it/ing/1/1/home.htm" target="_blank">Francesco Bola Turismo</a> </b></div>
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<b><u>What's the best map for Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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The Cinque Terre Park (<i>Parco Nazional delle Cinque Terre</i>) has an excellent map of the hiking trails available at info points. You can see or download a 5 MB pdf here: <u><b><a href="http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/pdf/Cartina_Sentieri.pdf" target="_blank">Official Cinque Terre National Park Hiking Map</a></b></u> There are also commercial maps enhanced in different ways available at every store in Cinque Terre. Map boards have also been erected at key points around the park. No need to buy before you arrive, however check the Park's <b><a href="http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Esentieri-outdoor.php" target="_blank">Trail Status Update Cinque Terre National Park</a> </b>before your visit to see if any trails are closed.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#top">BACK TO INDEX</a></b>
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" name="Metaphysical Questions"></a>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Metaphysical Questions</b></span></h3>
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<h4 style="font-weight: 400;">
<br /><b><u>What's the best part of visiting the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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<b><u>Are the Cinque Terre worth visiting?</u></b></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmfXxHjpq5mznId4gPIqWQV3_EyHUBn3ylcRPaIMKx7MGL7WVsvjQQM-MCk0sCt3pmIgOaiLoE8Yi0L0Y5mh2u_zw2LrEYFeuBel-7pJI41LH6Qf1h6n0FLrJR6_7yjeZiAmyfFrK5Dqy/s1600/CT+VnY+Sergio+Boscaino.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre terraces with vines" border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmfXxHjpq5mznId4gPIqWQV3_EyHUBn3ylcRPaIMKx7MGL7WVsvjQQM-MCk0sCt3pmIgOaiLoE8Yi0L0Y5mh2u_zw2LrEYFeuBel-7pJI41LH6Qf1h6n0FLrJR6_7yjeZiAmyfFrK5Dqy/s400/CT+VnY+Sergio+Boscaino.jpg" title="Cinque Terre terraces with vines" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Centuries old terraces patterned with grape vines. CC by Sergio Boscaino</td></tr>
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We think the best part of a Cinque Terre visit is the constant visual beauty – it's everywhere: the buildings and their colors, the nestled villages, the color of the sea, the hills and their lines of vine-filled terraces, the innumerable greens of nature, the famous Cinque Terre sunsets, flowers you’ve never seen before, brilliant yellow <i>ginestra</i> trailside, the gentle morning light, the villages at night. The landscapes and seascapes will also amaze you with their grandeur, and they are more easily and compactly seen than some other famous places (sorry Big Sur and Amalfi Coast). You'll enjoy the food and wine to be sure, and while these specialties are available all over Liguria, somehow the surrounding beauty makes the food and wine more intense.</div>
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<b><u>What's the worst part of visiting the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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The worst part of a Cinque Terre visit is our fellow humans. It can get crowded and very crowded; people in tour groups can be oblivious of others; unaware individuals can be boors or act disrespectfully. The restaurants can be crowded, and some of the dishes served are not up to Italian standards. The service workers can become decidedly lackadaisical after a day dealing with a zillion tourists. A few businesses have prices which take extreme advantage of their location. The popular trails can resemble a conga line without the wedding. The heat and sun can really sap your energy especially late in the day. The steepness of the hills can make you seriously question your trip planning judgement. Perhaps worst of all, your gelato will disappear too quickly.</div>
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<b><u>What is not available in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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The Cinque Terre have no museums, relatively few landmark buildings, no large stores, limited shopping opportunities, no movie theaters, no nightclubs, no large music venues, not a lot of nightlife. There are insufficient restaurants and cafes at times compared to the demand. There are no large piazzas, some parts of the towns have few public places to sit, and public restrooms are hard to come by. Only Monterosso has a significant beach. Some of the towns, including the most famous – Vernazza - have no hotel, just BnBs and room rentals. None of the villages have easy access by car, and some have car access that is absolutely terrifying. Only Monterosso has any significant parking possibilities for visitors and the spaces are expensive. There are no car rental offices. There is very limited access for those with impaired mobility (see the FAQ on this below) and there are few easy hikes near the sea.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikMT5fnV5pxYbsdYGMJA1TTvHEqV0JMOStfpqOV7MTCj-oDc_HpvAax_KN0p53DfITvL7dxK8o0F7K2rmX8Aek5wQVpUeL36jExlfIMkQfM7ndT0xX2fcsg5ROHD7tlqUM5sQVSFI8xYJP/s1600/18+April+2013+Ameglia+Spring+051.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre gelato" border="0" data-original-height="1176" data-original-width="1600" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikMT5fnV5pxYbsdYGMJA1TTvHEqV0JMOStfpqOV7MTCj-oDc_HpvAax_KN0p53DfITvL7dxK8o0F7K2rmX8Aek5wQVpUeL36jExlfIMkQfM7ndT0xX2fcsg5ROHD7tlqUM5sQVSFI8xYJP/s320/18+April+2013+Ameglia+Spring+051.JPG" title="Cinque Terre gelato" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Gelato artigianale</i> means handmade gelato. It's rarely shared.</td></tr>
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<h4 style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;">
<b><u>Is the Cinque Terre overrated?</u></b></h4>
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The Cinque Terre is deservedly famous because the landscape, the seaside cliffs, the small romantic villages, and the centuries old terraces are incredibly beautiful and unique in the world. Some visitors may think it's overrated due to unrealistic expectations. Large numbers of informed travellers, photographers, and writers can't wait to visit Cinque Terre again. Too popular it may be, overrated it's not.</div>
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<b><u>Is it expensive in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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No, the Cinque Terre is less expensive compared to other resort districts in Italy and it's inexpensive when compared to resorts in other parts of Europe. The Cinque Terre is diverse, with options generally available at all economic levels. For comparisons (with suspicious methodology), look at the website <a href="http://www.budgetyourtrip.com/" target="_blank"><b>Budget Your Trip</b></a> which lists the Cinque Terre total daily expense at €105 per day and Como in the Lake District at €170 per day. The largest travel expense is accommodation, of course. The website Statista surveyed <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/736048/hotel-room-prices-in-top-20-most-popular-towns-in-italy/" target="_blank"><b>HotelRoom Prices</b></a> for beach communities in Italy in 2016 and found Vernazza to be just above the median in price at €96 for the <u>average</u> hotel room per night.</div>
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<b><u>Which is better Cinque Terre or Portofino for a vacation?</u></b></h4>
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The choice depends on the experience you seek, our opinion: <u>Portofino</u> is a small and beautiful old port town that became famous as a resort for the rich and famous in the 1950's. Today it makes for a pleasant short excursion to look at the movie-set pretty town, the tiny harbor with giant boats, the surrounding landscape, and to have an expensive drink. Choose Portofino for a half day's amusement. <b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/05/portofino-from-fishing-village-to-icon.html" target="_blank">How Portofino Became Famous</a>.</b></div>
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<u>Cinque Terre</u> is a more diverse area with five villages in a large coastal National Park. It's suitable for hiking and other outdoor activities and exploring villages in an affordable milieu. Choose Cinque Terre for a visit of one to five days.</div>
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<h4 style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;">
<b><u>Are the Cinque Terre villages rundown?</u></b></h4>
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Absolutely not. The color of most of the Cinque Terre buildings' exteriors is incorporated in the final layer of applied stucco. This gives a somewhat faded appearance over the decades that enchants most visitors and may fool the naive. Adding color is a relatively modern addition, see the photo nearby of Riomaggiore from the late 1800's.</div>
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<b><u>Is the Cinque Terre gay friendly?</u></b></h4>
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Italians and Ligurians have been hosting tourists for centuries and they are open and welcoming. Italians pride themselves on treating others personally and with respect. We have been following Cinque Terre and Ligurian news for decades and have never heard of discrimination of any type toward gays. It is true that Italy has not been progressive politically on gay rights, but that is not an indication of attitudes toward individuals. You probably won't find any gay scene in Cinque Terre, but you will certainly find respect.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqbkhZ_wSHS3EVjc9kr1ZGxe9RGfffADL-Bx24x8VuLfnYJdpma8etqWJWHJJ1y4wrcIzMDJn4OuST5og4uuWWbAxNimJ0bXS50NRRpIClssP7kZYpkKrauk3R5PtQO2OfNkyiAuag6ihP/s1600/Riomaggiore_Noack+%2528copy%2529.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre 1890 August Alfred Noack" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqbkhZ_wSHS3EVjc9kr1ZGxe9RGfffADL-Bx24x8VuLfnYJdpma8etqWJWHJJ1y4wrcIzMDJn4OuST5og4uuWWbAxNimJ0bXS50NRRpIClssP7kZYpkKrauk3R5PtQO2OfNkyiAuag6ihP/s320/Riomaggiore_Noack+%2528copy%2529.jpg" title="Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre 1890 August Alfred Noack" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre 1890 August Alfred Noack<br />
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<h4 style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;">
<b><u>Is it safe in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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<b><u>Is a woman travelling alone safe in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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The Cinque Terre is even <u>safer</u> than the rest of Italy and women alone should have no special concerns. Crimes against tourists are virtually unheard of with two exceptions: <u>pickpockets and bag theft</u>. Pickpockets around trains, train stations, and in crowds are a real problem in Europe as well as on and around the Cinque Terre trains. Local Italian police have a special unit for pickpockets and still the problem persists. You need to guard against it with a neck safe or money belt, and by guarding against your bags being opened or grabbed, especially getting on or off trains or sitting in an outside cafe or restaurant. For an extensive discussion of products: <b><a href="https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/packing/travel-purse-suggestions-and-question-about-passport-holding" target="_blank">RS Forum: Bags & Money Belts</a> . </b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#top">BACK TO INDEX</a></b>
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" name="Cell phone, wifi, internet"></a>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Cell Phone, Wifi, Internet </b></span></h3>
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<b><u>Can I get cellular phone service in the Cinque Terre?</u></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3NoXtCQLgfAxw5rNIHUp5fREY_0KDjhqI5CfSE6afihBpojZc9Bxqr-EAwVy515UV2CsXc2lM0Qlna7mehRMFH4D5cZtrHPzjmHXSih-DxADdvDlAWc55hyuMmeuIvpZpZwaMNfB5QGO/s1600/16+Nov+2012+Portovenere+096.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre coast from the loggia of San Pietro, Portovenere" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3NoXtCQLgfAxw5rNIHUp5fREY_0KDjhqI5CfSE6afihBpojZc9Bxqr-EAwVy515UV2CsXc2lM0Qlna7mehRMFH4D5cZtrHPzjmHXSih-DxADdvDlAWc55hyuMmeuIvpZpZwaMNfB5QGO/s320/16+Nov+2012+Portovenere+096.JPG" title="Cinque Terre coast from the loggia of San Pietro, Portovenere" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinque Terre coast from the loggia of San Pietro, Portovenere.</td></tr>
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Yes, there is good cell phone service in the Cinque Terre. As with any hilly area, it can be patchy but the area has good coverage overall. The three major carriers are TIM, Vodafone, and Wind. They all have stores in La Spezia, and TIM has an affiliate in Levanto. To find stores in Italy, Google '<i>trova negozio</i>' plus a company name.</div>
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If you are coming from the USA, we've seen favorable reviews for <a href="https://www.ivideo.com.tw/english/" target="_blank"><b>iVideo</b></a> which rents a cell phone that connects to Vodaphone.</div>
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<u><b>Is there public wifi / free internet access in the Cinque Terre?</b></u></h4>
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Yes, it’s easier to find free wifi internet in Cinque Terre than in most rural places. It’s offered by many commercial establishments in the villages. Access to the Park's wifi hotspots near the train stations is included with The Cinque Terre card. More useful is<b> Liguria Free Wifi</b> available all over Liguria and in four of the Cinque Terre villages (not Monterosso) and on some of the trails. Liguria Free wifi is a brilliant initiative by the Region of Liguria which we wrote about here<b> <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/06/an-entire-region-of-italy-with-free-wifi.html" target="_blank">Liguria Free Wifi</a>.</b></div>
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<b><u>Is there a good app for the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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The free app that carries the logo of the Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre called <b>"Cinque Terre Hiking Guide"</b> and also called<b> 'Pn5t Plus'</b> available free for both Apple and Android devices. We recommend it to all hikers. It has several excellent features and the Park intends to add more features over time. One can enter their Cinque Terre Card number to facilitate additional features. It allows you to see an overall trail map as well as individual trail maps and to <u>see your position on that trail</u>. The trails also have word descriptions (in English) illustrated with photos at key points, and other goodies including distances, elevations, where to get water, and dialing for assistance.</div>
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The Proloco of Monterosso has an app with itineraries featuring different themes and areas within the comune's territory. <a href="http://www.monterossowalking.it/?lang=en" target="_blank"><b>Monterosso Walking</b></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#top">BACK TO INDEX</a></b>
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" name="Cars, Parking, Car Hire"></a>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;">Car, Car Hire, Parking Questions</b></h3>
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<b><u>Can we drive to the Cinque Terre villages?</u></b></h4>
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Practically speaking you should try hard to avoid driving to the Cinque Terre villages. The roads down to the villages are narrow, the turns sharp. and the parking difficult. OK, it's possible, but you don't gain anything - you can't use the car to get around and you'll take the train or ferry between villages anyway. Bonus info: driving to Corniglia and Vernazza is extra horrifying and your kids/spouse might not forgive you. Parking in Monterosso is possible, but limited and expensive.</div>
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<b><u>Are there ZTLs in the Cinque Terre villages?</u></b></h4>
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Yes. The centers of all of the Cinque Terre villages are either ZTLs (Zones of Limited Traffic) or no traffic is allowed at all. In Monterosso, one can drive to parts of the new town (Fegina).</div>
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<h4 style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;">
<b><u>Can we drive around the Cinque Terre Park?</u></b></h4>
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Yes, and the driving along the hills of the Cinque Terre Park is beautiful. The high state road (SP370) coming from La Spezia runs parallel to the coast and gives excellent views and you can park at some of the turnoffs for a scene, a picnic, or a hike. The road narrows near Volastra and turns into SP51, going north, and the turns are sharper, but it's manageable. The roads descending to the Cinque Terre villages however are more difficult and they are the reason that we warn folks not to drive.</div>
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<b><u>Where to park to see the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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<b><u>Where can we park our rental car when we stay in Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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The three most realistic choices for parking during a Cinque Terre visit are:<br />
1.) Park in La Spezia whether you stay there or not (see the next question).<b><u></u></b><br />
2.) Stay in Levanto at a hotel with parking.<br />
3.) Stay in Monterosso at a hotel that offering parking.<br />
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For one night or two nights while staying in a Cinque Terre village, we'd choose number 1. For more nights, we'd choose number 2 - people really like Levanto and you're taking the train between villages anyway. Number 3 is a long curvy drive on narrow roads, parking costs more, and you're taking the train between villages anyway. No matter the choice, don't leave anything in the car overnight that's essential to your trip and don't ever leave any belongings visible from outside the vehicle.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgm6SvBYPRUU8gExmTc6-bQHyu7FFp5TbAXnLDoeZ10xfDf37GoEiTAd-Kb_ys2saVstCIlRL2VlpAdhC4v0_BqfNouNurNsp-yyUc7_g_96jWVHD6DBhlJclGa99o53T_f2OcHrthvI2r/s1600/Filetto+Lerici+LaSpezia+08+May+2012+045.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Centro Park entrance. La Spezia Train Station" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgm6SvBYPRUU8gExmTc6-bQHyu7FFp5TbAXnLDoeZ10xfDf37GoEiTAd-Kb_ys2saVstCIlRL2VlpAdhC4v0_BqfNouNurNsp-yyUc7_g_96jWVHD6DBhlJclGa99o53T_f2OcHrthvI2r/s320/Filetto+Lerici+LaSpezia+08+May+2012+045.JPG" title="Centro Park entrance. La Spezia Train Station" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Centro Park entrance. La Spezia Train Station.</td></tr>
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<b><u>Where to park in La Spezia when visiting the Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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In La Spezia there's a modern secure <a href="http://www.mobpark.eu/it/park-centro-stazione-6/info.html" target="_blank"><b>Centro Park</b></a> facility under the La Spezia Centrale train station (23€ or 18€ with reservation per day 1/2018), and 200 m. away from Centrale there's also a <a href="http://privateparking.weebly.com/" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Private Parking</a> facility (12€ per day 1/2018). There's a modern secure outdoor lot at <u>Porto Mirabella</u> quite near the dock for the Cinque Terre ferry. There's a new modern secure underground parking facility under <a href="http://www.europaparksrl.it/" target="_blank"><b>Piazza Europa</b></a> close to the waterfront (15€ per day 1/2018). There's free outdoor parking at <u>Piazza d'Armi</u> and <u>PalaSport</u> at differing distances from downtown. The moderately priced <b>Hotel Corallo</b> has their own parking garage and the location's fairly central. The <b>CDH Hotel</b> has a few free places outside and additional secured paid
parking and the <b>Hotel Genova</b> also has a paid parking garage - both are in
the centre of town . The <b>Albergo Venezia</b> & <b>Hotel Firenze-Continental</b> are near the train station and its parking. Secure means with video surveillance – but still don't leave anything in the car overnight that's essential to your trip and don't ever leave any belongings visible from outside the vehicle.</div>
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<b><u>Where to drop off a rental car to see Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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We'd say if you will be driving less than two hours or so, drop it off at La Spezia unless you're arriving on the weekend. If you're coming from afar, drop it off where ever you are and take the train to La Spezia since you'll use the train to reach Cinque Terre anyway. Click for our article with map for info about the <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/11/where-to-rent-car-from-cinque-terre-la.html" target="_blank"><b>La Spezia rental car offices</b></a>.</div>
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<b><u>Where to rent a car when we leave Cinque Terre?</u></b></h4>
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There are no car rental offices in the Cinque Terre. For travelers headed to most Italian destinations, the answer is rent a car in La Spezia or, on the weekend, at Pisa airport. If you are headed northwest to the Piedmont, Liguria, or Val d'Aosta, rent the car at Rapallo, Genoa or La Spezia. If you are continuing your trip in France, take a train and rent a car there, as international drop-off fees are enormous. We've written a special article on this, complete with a map showing the car rental offices in La Spezia: <b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/11/where-to-rent-car-from-cinque-terre-la.html" target="_blank">Where To Rent a Car from Cinque Terre</a></b></div>
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<b style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Car Rental </b><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>Tip</b></span><span style="text-align: center;">_____________________________________________________________</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b>Hiring A Car in Italy. </b>If you drive in urban areas at home, you can drive in Italy. Stick to well known rental companies. Rental prices are tricky - low prices can lead to add-ons . We have two articles to help:</span><span style="color: #990000;"> </span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"> </span><b style="color: #990000;">Link:</b><span style="color: #990000;"> </span><b style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/12/car-rental-company-reviews-for-italy.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Independent Car Rental Reviews for Italy</a></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000;"> Link: <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/12/car-rental-in-italy-pick-it-up-right.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Car Rental Tips for Italy - Pick It Up Right</a> </span></b></div>
<span style="color: #990000;">We also recommend the reputable car hire brokers Auto Europe or its subsidiary, Kemwel Discount Rentals. They allow you to compare companies, get zero deductible insurance if needed. If you will be renting a car, please consider our Links below (which do not affect the prices offered).</span><br />
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<b style="text-align: center;"><u style="font-size: medium;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://clkuk.tradedoubler.com/click?p=283617&a=2984421&g=24031682" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Avis UK Home Page (English)</a></span></b></u> </b><b style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><b><a href="https://clk.tradedoubler.com/click?p=283780&a=2984421&g=24037324" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Budget UK Home Page</a> </b><b> <a href="http://www.budget.nl/budgetonline/nl-gb/budget.nsf/?open&CID=afbeuen0003856365-6386226" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Budget Rental (Europe in English)</a> </b> </b></b><span style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=apathtolunch" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">AutoEurope(USA)</a><b> </b> <b><a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/?aff=apathtolunch" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Auto Europe(UK)</a> </b></span><b><a href="http://www.kemwel.com/aff/A2B3C4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kemwel Discount Rentals</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html#top">BACK TO INDEX</a></b>
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" name="Limited Mobility Issues"></a>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;">Limited Mobility Questions</b></div>
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<b><u>Is the Cinque Terre handicapped accessible in a wheelchair or walker?</u></b></h4>
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In our view, the Cinque Terre are not generally accessible to someone in a wheelchair or walker. We think there are better choices for pretty Ligurian visits - see the question below. Perhaps the biggest obstacle is getting there. While all of the Cinque Terre train stations have elevators now, they are less than reliable. Further, the train stations still involve stairs. See this discussion: <b><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187817-i997-k8337360-Cinque_Terre_and_disabled_facilities-Cinque_Terre_Italian_Riviera_Liguria.html" target="_blank">TripAdvisor Forum on CT Access</a>.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaaXtYZJsaCQIeffacdAgd8Cuzd54HOafSjpnUQB75-aBq6cp3uX4JtJPLcOQTJ3cQ5LWMB_xjnYnPBrBokKjYwHltQkoXpz984E4h5HB3lwgWnrvwT3eZjUXp30-FsbDNRGMrzJASCUO/s1600/Vern+Lee+%2526+Chantelle+McArthur.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre stairs disabled access" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaaXtYZJsaCQIeffacdAgd8Cuzd54HOafSjpnUQB75-aBq6cp3uX4JtJPLcOQTJ3cQ5LWMB_xjnYnPBrBokKjYwHltQkoXpz984E4h5HB3lwgWnrvwT3eZjUXp30-FsbDNRGMrzJASCUO/s320/Vern+Lee+%2526+Chantelle+McArthur.jpg" title="Cinque Terre stairs disabled access" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CC by Vern Lee & Chantelle McDonald</td></tr>
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Once there, accessibility does vary by town with a large part of Monterosso being accessible, but the other villages much less so. There have been some improvements – – but overall there are many obstacles. The Cinque Terre ferry company does not recommend wheelchairs or walkers as access to the boats is via a gangplank at several of the ports.</div>
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<b><u>Are there many stairs in the Cinque Terre villages?</u></b></h4>
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Yes, the commercial establishments and lodgings of Cinque Terre are almost all in narrow old buildings with some stairs to enter and staircases to the upper floors. Very, very few of the old buildings have elevators.</div>
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The train stations in Riomaggiore, Manarola and Vernazza are toward the high end of the village, and the stone-paved street then descends toward the sea, sometimes with sections of stairs. In Corniglia the station is below the town and there are 365 stairs to climb or one can use a shuttle. In these towns, getting one's baggage from the train station to lodging can require considerable effort or a pre-arranged porter.</div>
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<b><u>What is the most accessible town in Cinque Terre for a traveler with a disability?</u></b></h4>
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The most level and accessible village in Cinque Terre is Monterosso. It has an old part and a modern section (called Fegina). The train station is between them and is about 20 steps above the seaside boardwalk which is level, and there is some limited taxi service. There are at least eight hotels with ground level entrances and elevators in Fegina.</div>
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<b><u>What nearby Ligurian towns are suitable for someone with impaired mobility?</u></b></div>
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Up the coast, <u>Sestri Levante</u> is a popular resort with a small but pretty old town. It has a long, level promenade along the beach leading to the old town which is also level. There are numerous modern hotels nearby. It has train service and a Cinque Terre boat tour available.</div>
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<u>Levanto</u> is a small city just north of the Cinque Terre and is mostly level with an old town, an extensive beach, and parks. There is a level, paved bike/pedestrian path through old rail tunnels that provides some unique views of town and sea which extends several miles up the coast. Levanto has numerous hotels and restaurants and gets enthusiastic reviews from many Cinque Terre visitors. It has both train service and Cinque Terre ferry service.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; font-weight: 400; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyH-oNE-mDt_h_24JdQdqNE9CpbA_icZy7egWiDyBkjIxue8aBWe2eXoLXZA5bM287o1yF234Sj8JnILqueCNifzgn4T6PFBNCVxCrKsIL0CI-PJzd6kEQfQfOnRAxZ7zvfsXzl322r4r/s1600/IMG_0782.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lerici Castle and harbour at night" border="0" data-original-height="1058" data-original-width="1600" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyH-oNE-mDt_h_24JdQdqNE9CpbA_icZy7egWiDyBkjIxue8aBWe2eXoLXZA5bM287o1yF234Sj8JnILqueCNifzgn4T6PFBNCVxCrKsIL0CI-PJzd6kEQfQfOnRAxZ7zvfsXzl322r4r/s400/IMG_0782.JPG" title="Lerici Castle and harbour at night" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lerici with its Castle and part of the harbour side <i>lungomare</i>.</td></tr>
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The town of <u>Lerici</u> is wrapped around a series of little bays on the Gulf of La Spezia. There are many stores, cafes, parks, beaches, and restaurants along the level road facing the sea <i>(lungomare</i>). Some of the older part of the city, including the castle, are on the adjacent hillsides. There are at least five hotels along the <i>lungomare, </i>such as the<b> </b><b>Hotel Florida</b> across from lovely Venere beach. Lerici has good bus service from La Spezia or it costs about 30 Euro via taxi. There is Cinque Terre ferry service but no train service. Of course we have an article that will make you fall in love: <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2011/06/castle-to-castle-along-gulf-of-poets.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Castle to Castle Along the Gulf of the Poets</a>.</div>
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The central business district of <u>La Spezia</u> is entirely flat, including the waterfront, the Cinque Terre ferry dock, and many of the hotels. The train station is a bit elevated but there's a road leading up to it that's not steep (though there are stairs to some rail platforms). Several of the area's streets are car-free for easier access. We have not surveyed the availability of curb cuts, ramps or lack thereof. The <b>CDH Hotel</b> is fairly modern and has direct access to the Via Prione, a popular pedestrian way, with elevator access to the lobby and it's fairly close to the train station.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzv6ITqk90vua_I9vmsIAW2nYLEm0IIUMzEz_-1UZv5swMu2cZ0IIfVJPO60oT4BcwiK000r2b802eZ-QtfCT41QjmROHXr4tX5kGtyOJ2RkeqXwftEQrLb057b0vTzsNxuwWglXLy5aP/s1600/IMG_20171028_174403.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Really good Italy travel website writers" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzv6ITqk90vua_I9vmsIAW2nYLEm0IIUMzEz_-1UZv5swMu2cZ0IIfVJPO60oT4BcwiK000r2b802eZ-QtfCT41QjmROHXr4tX5kGtyOJ2RkeqXwftEQrLb057b0vTzsNxuwWglXLy5aP/s200/IMG_20171028_174403.jpg" title="Really good Italy travel website writers" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fall 2017: our 56th Italy trip.</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">About Us</span></u></b></h4>
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We are Mike and Martha from Boston and we have visited Italy over 50 times in the past 30 years. We are retired photo editors and we've had an apartment eleven miles by crow or drone from Cinque Terre for over 25 years. We know the Cinque Terre well and we keep current by reading the local news and travelers' forums and keeping up with travel websites. We also maintain the web's only archive of Cinque Terre ferry schedules to help people off-season. We hope our information will help you have a great trip. When planning, remember there are no right choices, just different pleasures. Buon Viaggio.</div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Disclosure</span></u></b></div>
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We receive no money or free stuff for writing our articles or opinions. </div>
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Photos captioned 'CC By' or 'CC' are used through a Creative Commons license and can be found on Flickr. Uncredited photos are copyright by us.</div>
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Written by Martha and Mike. All this stuff is Copyright 2019 & 2023 by Amendola Media LLC except as otherwise noted.</div>
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<b><u>Ligurian Proverb</u></b>: <i>Ogni promessa e un debito</i>. (Every promise is a debt.)</div>
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<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/1/118395876460565607548?rel=author"></a>
*Source: Citta della Spezia (a news website) 2 May 2017 Photos of CT crowds at end of the story.</div>
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<a href="http://www.cittadellaspezia.com/Cinque-Terre-Val-di-Vara/Attualita/Ponte-da-pazzi-alle-Cinque-Terre-36-per-232882.aspx">http://www.cittadellaspezia.com/Cinque-Terre-Val-di-Vara/Attualita/Ponte-da-pazzi-alle-Cinque-Terre-36-per-232882.aspx</a></div>
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**Source: La Repubblica (a newspaper website) 2 June 2017 <a href="http://genova.repubblica.it/cronaca/2017/06/02/news/_il_numero_dev_essere_giusto_non_chiuso_-166991341/">http://genova.repubblica.it/cronaca/2017/06/02/news/_il_numero_dev_essere_giusto_non_chiuso_-166991341/</a></div>
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Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comParco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore SP, Italy44.128108999999988 9.712390700000014544.12669249999999 9.7098692000000142 44.129525499999986 9.7149122000000148tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-78228855827728831082016-12-20T14:05:00.006-05:002024-02-02T13:00:34.979-05:00Great Italian Hill Towns Near Cinque Terre for 2024 <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Seven Pretty Liguria and Tuscany Hill Towns near Cinque Terre. </h2>
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Explore Evocative Old Italian Hill Villages with Castles & Medieval Streets.</h3>
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Stay In a Castle Hotel / A Hotel In an Ex-Convent / or A Room with a 10 Mile View.</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7GRKdVamU_jYx6t0Jt7TAuAbOy74RUiV0jdkQnu12rCXgMYrMmE6YJidLQfswc7MmEqjI3tKwIdjL2jf90jH_yJaZ6nuIOYdTI5zzjPK__nJ7HO-Nzk2Ay0XToqV26auMEJo-FEO37Pg/s1600/fosdinovo++giorgio+freschi+turismo_intoscana_it.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Malaspina Castle & Fosdinovo Tuscany near Cinque Terre" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7GRKdVamU_jYx6t0Jt7TAuAbOy74RUiV0jdkQnu12rCXgMYrMmE6YJidLQfswc7MmEqjI3tKwIdjL2jf90jH_yJaZ6nuIOYdTI5zzjPK__nJ7HO-Nzk2Ay0XToqV26auMEJo-FEO37Pg/s640/fosdinovo++giorgio+freschi+turismo_intoscana_it.jpg" title="Malaspina Castle & Fosdinovo Tuscany near Cinque Terre" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fosdinovo & the Malaspina Castle/Hotel with Portovenere & the Gulf of La Spezia . Giorgio Freschi /Turismo In Toscana</td></tr>
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Good news, fellow travelers. If you thought you didn't have time to see the Cinque Terre fishing villages <u>and</u> an Italian hill town, you're in luck. You can easily see some wonderful hill towns as you drive to or from Cinque Terre, Lucca or Pisa. We guarantee they are authentic, evocative, pretty, historic, and five other adjectives of your choice.<br />
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These seven diverse hill towns are in the border area of Tuscany and Liguria - the part of Italy referred to as Lunigiana. They sit on hills around the lower valley of the Magra River adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea and the dramatic Apuan Alps. They are much older than the Cinque Terre villages and you can enjoy them without a crowd. We recommend them all, and we've visited each many times. See our<a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1dCDh7Pb92yjljd8mYtsyf1fbVjg&usp=sharing" target="_blank"> <b><u>Liguria & Tuscany Hill Town Map</u></b></a> for orientation and the <b><u>Getting There</u></b> section below.<br />
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Italian hill towns are a fascinating example of human adaptation, so don't miss the opportunity to explore one or two to imagine and appreciate this unique way of life. They developed first and foremost for defense from attack, but continued to develop for other factors - access to pastures, escape from malaria, to control trade routes, as a visible symbol of power, and more. Modern life and modern economies have passed them by, but they are still available for you. Take the time to visit - you'll be rewarded with timeless sights and memories.<br />
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Scroll down or <b><u>Click</u></b> the hill town name to jump to the description. <u>Note:</u> We use these names to refer to the <u>Historic Center</u> (<i>Centro Storico</i>). You may also see the name used on maps to refer to the larger <i>comune</i>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html#fosdinovo"><b><u>Fosdinovo</u></b></a> Great views, good churches, and the region's best castle (and a unique hotel).<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html#Castelnuovo"><b><u>Castelnuovo Magra</u></b></a> Panoramic views and the ruin of an historic castle with a maze of lanes.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html#Ortonovo"><b><u>Ortonovo</u></b></a> In the foothills of the Apuan Alps, it also has a prominent sanctuary and forest paths.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html#Nicola"><b><u>Nicola</u></b></a> Occupying its own knobby hill, it's the most medieval town and has a good restaurant.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html#Vezzano"><b><u>Vezzano Ligure</u></b></a> Two towns - the older perched above the valley; the newer, at age 400, is higher still.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html#Ameglia"><b><u>Ameglia</u></b></a> Ex-home to the Counts of Luni, its castle is surrounded by medieval lanes and houses.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html#Montemarcello"><b><u>Montemarcello</u></b></a> A Roman army outpost became a movie-set-pretty Ligurian village.<br />
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We have recommended accommodations in the sections on Fosdinovo, Castelnuovo, Vezzano Ligure, and Montemarcello. <u> Book as early as you can</u> - this area is very popular. In 2020, the long Easter weekend is April 11-13. Book <b>RIGHT NOW</b> for those weekends.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">See </span><u style="font-size: small;"><b>About Us</b></u><span style="font-size: x-small;"> and </span><u style="font-size: small;"><b>Disclosures</b></u><span style="font-size: x-small;"> below. Some of these links may be affiliate links: they do not affect the prices offered.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html" name="fosdinovo"></a>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Fosdinovo</u></b></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpzN0ZbagwApFDWTGVQaStkl0fhPtGrIuV8VpspONo3one3kJ-2r6hg71jrXzgM33Sz_t7dTAKxEbAuHMazqYfr-9MjOmprgXgPaF_qGaIcjr38k-x5NMhpMoihvohV6z4L3K_07d9WBac/s1600/Carrara+Cozze+9+June+2012+160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Malaspina Castle in Fosdinovo Tuscany." border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpzN0ZbagwApFDWTGVQaStkl0fhPtGrIuV8VpspONo3one3kJ-2r6hg71jrXzgM33Sz_t7dTAKxEbAuHMazqYfr-9MjOmprgXgPaF_qGaIcjr38k-x5NMhpMoihvohV6z4L3K_07d9WBac/s320/Carrara+Cozze+9+June+2012+160.JPG" title="Malaspina Castle in Fosdinovo Tuscany." width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malaspina Castle in Fosdinovo Tuscany.</td></tr>
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Located on a twisty road high above Sarzana, historic Fosdinovo is visible for miles around. It's the best undiscovered hill town in Tuscany, in our opinion. The town dominates its own hill with its tiny main street running up the ridge line to a large Malaspina castle at the height of the town. You'll enjoy wandering the narrow streets, admiring the immense views, and exploring the castle and three churches. If the weather's hot, there's always a cooling breeze here.<br />
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The Malaspina castle, with origins from the 11th century, is one of the area's best preserved and you will definitely enjoy it (and it's great for kids). In season it's open every day except Tuesday by scheduled guided tours, for details the url is: <i>Castellodifosdinovo.it </i>The tour covers the whole castle and includes a dungeon and a dining hall with fabulous murals.<br />
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You'll also learn that Dante stayed at the Castle and you can too since the castle incorporates a unique hotel:<b> <a href="http://www.booking.com/hotel/it/castello-di-fosdinovo.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Booking.com Castello di Fosdinovo</a>. </b>Also nearby in walking distance from town: <b><a href="http://www.booking.com/hotel/it/b-amp-b-il-girasole-fosdinovo.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Booking.com Il Girasole B&B</a>.</b><br />
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There are three ornate churches filled with paintings and precious marble and they're all on the main street Via Roma / Via Papiriana. The parish church of San Rimigio is in 15th C. style and has an ornate Malaspina funerary monument; just behind it is the 15th C. Oratory of the Red Fraternity (<i>Confraternita dei Rossi</i>) with baroque decor; downhill is the 1468 Oratory of the White Fraternity (<i>Compagnia dei Bianchi</i>) with a blinding facade of white Carrara marble (an oratory is a church sponsored by a lay group or individuals). What a marvel that this little town could attain the splendor of these buildings.<br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html" name="Castelnuovo"></a>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<u>Castelnuovo Magra</u></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglMQkV2sd8t6cTSWaWLrIoFgm8f9MipeZQ3OovbBuQmzyLqiZ6DEDicYJqaSR85JYHPSqG8h4YhQ92J6zw2qERPxUuBOTTplZUC0lasq6I_ofEd8i64wtUAu6vT97rw_yGCBVzkm3XPO9d/s1600/Castelnuovo_Davide+Papalini.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Italian Hill Town of Castelnuovo Magra near Cinque Terre" border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglMQkV2sd8t6cTSWaWLrIoFgm8f9MipeZQ3OovbBuQmzyLqiZ6DEDicYJqaSR85JYHPSqG8h4YhQ92J6zw2qERPxUuBOTTplZUC0lasq6I_ofEd8i64wtUAu6vT97rw_yGCBVzkm3XPO9d/s640/Castelnuovo_Davide+Papalini.JPG" title="Italian Hill Town of Castelnuovo Magra near Cinque Terre" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Castelnuovo Magra with Fosdinovo in the distance. Dante enjoyed the views in 1306. CC By Davide Papalini</td></tr>
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Late on any sunny day, from miles away, you can admire Castelnuovo shining in golden light on the foothills of the Apuan Alps. It can seem like an apparition, beckoning you to follow the winding road up and up through olive groves and vineyards (Vermentino grapes for the white D.O.C. Colli di Luni). We are in Liguria now, even though it's nearer to Tuscany proper than Fosdinovo (it's a long story).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7AvpgNYN2VRyGFlCtZLWeeIV0yehZGgAAc5QSHE7RjNYDW7OBwvsuHXw98ChUXfP0guX5STJy5Qdm1QybcHAZvTlSdPUhWnKrzYBMGy0tf4ypkrKRTIiStSb3m8wn0dFwnGwoF7z3VTq/s1600/2015-OCT+Castelnuovo+%252855%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Castelnuovo Magra Castle" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7AvpgNYN2VRyGFlCtZLWeeIV0yehZGgAAc5QSHE7RjNYDW7OBwvsuHXw98ChUXfP0guX5STJy5Qdm1QybcHAZvTlSdPUhWnKrzYBMGy0tf4ypkrKRTIiStSb3m8wn0dFwnGwoF7z3VTq/s320/2015-OCT+Castelnuovo+%252855%2529.JPG" title="Castelnuovo Magra Castle" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Castelnuovo Magra Castle</td></tr>
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The town itself is surprisingly flat for a town on a hill, a maze of narrow streets and well-tended houses. You'll enjoy the wander, but don't let the modest exterior of these buildings fool you. Some are the palaces of the wealthy from the 17th and 18th century who had no need to advertise their money.<br />
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The 12th castle, at the upper end of town, is the town's icon and notable for its tower and for hosting Dante, but not as a tourist. In 1306, Dante, who was a lawyer at the time, brokered a peace here between the Count/Bishop of Luni and the upstart Malaspina family. The castle is no longer whole, but enough remains to imagine more. The views from here are wonderful.<br />
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Stay in Castelnuovo with a 10 mile view: <a href="http://www.booking.com/hotel/it/dimora-garibaldi.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Booking.com Dimora Garibaldi</b></a> or rent an independent house in walking distance from town: <a href="http://www.booking.com/hotel/it/villino-la-casetta.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Villino La Casetta</b></a><br />
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The excellent late Renaissance parish church of St. Mary Magdalene is at the lower end of town. There are three naves, divided by twelve columns of white Carrara marble. In the first chapel on the left, there's a scene of Calvary attributed to Peter Bruegel the Younger. In the second altar on the left is an 18th century painting dedicated to the patron saint of Castelnuovo Magra , San Fedele - the background of which shows a view of eighteenth-century Castelnuovo Magra. Look for a Madonna by Domenico (1589-1669) and a Crucifixion attributed to Van Dyck.<br />
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Castelnuovo has been accepted as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of Italy” so we've written more in our <a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/02/the-most-beautiful-villages-in-liguria_25.html" target="_blank"><b>Most Beautiful Villages of Liguria Part 7</b></a> story. <br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html" name="Ortonovo"></a>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<u>Ortonovo</u></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpQ5qthzAK5VK_Z6pcH7eH27d6IRdEXdx2jngT271RQsGV_M-fV7PZ5fdv0IRB0BEysXh83xRbIS22xJucFjMqhIsi-ApsLMi1_zuglXUQAOX-sUy5eOzNf0nQMfYxlx4LrnMUxqwdeHC/s1600/2014-May-28+LidoC+Boscaccio+034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Italian Hill Town of Ortonovo in Liguria near the Tuscan border" border="0" height="451" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpQ5qthzAK5VK_Z6pcH7eH27d6IRdEXdx2jngT271RQsGV_M-fV7PZ5fdv0IRB0BEysXh83xRbIS22xJucFjMqhIsi-ApsLMi1_zuglXUQAOX-sUy5eOzNf0nQMfYxlx4LrnMUxqwdeHC/s640/2014-May-28+LidoC+Boscaccio+034.JPG" title="Italian Hill Town of Ortonovo in Liguria near the Tuscan border" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Italian Hill Town of Ortonovo in Liguria near the Tuscan border.</td></tr>
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Although important to the Romans as a sentry post above Luni, the historic center of Ortonovo dates from the 11th C. After a steep and curvy climb, you'll find the town perched precariously on a curve on Mount Boscaccia. There are enjoyable little streets with idiosyncratic houses, an enormous 15th C. Guinigi family watchtower, and one of the narrower road passages you'll ever see. The large pink parish church of San Lorenzo is from 1645 and has a country feel despite the baroque. The poor building hasn't had much attention lately, but there's art and statuary to enjoy in the cool, quiet interior. <br />
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More extravagant is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mirteto (<i>Nostra Signora di Mirteto</i>). This large white church is located a bit downhill from the center of Ortonovo, and it commands views of much of the valley. This is a place of pilgrimage for believers commemorating a 1537 miracle when a painting of the Madonna at the Crucifixion began to shed tears of blood. Inside there's a <i>tempietto</i> (a little temple) from 1796, lots of precious marble, and many votives - one of our favorite forms of folk art.<br />
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Another unique feature of this hill town is that it's surrounded by forest. We've described a beautiful, peaceful hike around the slopes of Mount Boscaccia so you can enjoy the woods, old olive groves, views of the coastal plain and the Carrara quarries, the cute town of Fontia, and a country road. It takes about 90 minutes and it's an easy shady hike with only a couple of moderate short climbs: <b><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/06/hiking-ortonovo-fontia-ring.html" target="_blank">Hiking the Ortonovo Fontia Ring</a>.</b> We also describe a slightly more energetic nearby hike: <b><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/04/walking-tuscan-forest-ortonovo-to.html" target="_blank">Walking a Tuscan Forest - Ortonovo to Castelpoggio</a>.</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html" name="Nicola"></a>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<u>Nicola</u></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFOML7rmOF2Qk2ettDsarswPaBx-OWDnvs-rDn2R_xtrol6x0tJRllJvAFw2gNG0IDjuUbIEAo2ynGhx-Q1fWnARlI8qp0M39TuqfKzL9yKqHyMf8QN40WZSwVy0YQ1AZJps6-cRgcR9LI/s1600/2014-May-28+LidoC+Boscaccio+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Italian Hill Town of Nicola in Liguria near the Tuscan border & Cinque Terre." border="0" height="459" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFOML7rmOF2Qk2ettDsarswPaBx-OWDnvs-rDn2R_xtrol6x0tJRllJvAFw2gNG0IDjuUbIEAo2ynGhx-Q1fWnARlI8qp0M39TuqfKzL9yKqHyMf8QN40WZSwVy0YQ1AZJps6-cRgcR9LI/s640/2014-May-28+LidoC+Boscaccio+027.JPG" title="Italian Hill Town of Nicola in Liguria near the Tuscan border & Cinque Terre." width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Italian Hill Town of Nicola in Liguria near the Tuscan border.</td></tr>
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Bring your imagination and your camera
to this little town, it's a gem. The streets are tiny, paved unevenly
with rocks and lined with houses that are convincingly medieval.
Located in the foothills above the coastal plain near Ortonovo,
Nicola occupies a perfect little hill surrounded by green. The town
origins are by legend in the 6<sup>th</sup> C. and by first mention
in the 11<sup>th</sup> C. There are some remains of a castle and a
tower, but the real attractions are the atmosphere, the good views, a
cute little church and a good restaurant.</div>
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The parish church of Saints Filippo &
Giacomo is made special by its very humility. Small and painted
bright yellow, it sits on a suitably humble piazza with statues of
Saints Philip & James on its facade. It was constructed from
the 15th-17<sup>th</sup> C. The inside has Baroque décor and
paintings and statuary from the 1500's.</div>
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Nicola's only restaurant is so good we wrote it up: <a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/05/eating-well-above-plain-in-nicola.html" target="_blank"><b>Da Fiorella in Nicola</b></a>. For those interested in an authentic regional
restaurant that locals seek out, you don't want to miss this. <br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html" name="Vezzano"></a>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<u>Vezzano Ligure</u></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvRK7VV_OoZhtacg0SoMkPNDqOz7rur7-UfCMdyEUn1pnb1X8eBC-EmU9Ckf0-rbg2gMFNKkHnQXFWIqg_2APTePzfT_EoHTLtcD3Nz4LHKe0W0gr0ss_gxRV9F1IYiwOKeX-elR15JDZ0/s1600/DSCF3491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Italian Hill Town of Vezzano Ligure Inferiore in Liguria near Cinque Terre." border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvRK7VV_OoZhtacg0SoMkPNDqOz7rur7-UfCMdyEUn1pnb1X8eBC-EmU9Ckf0-rbg2gMFNKkHnQXFWIqg_2APTePzfT_EoHTLtcD3Nz4LHKe0W0gr0ss_gxRV9F1IYiwOKeX-elR15JDZ0/s640/DSCF3491.JPG" title="Italian Hill Town of Vezzano Ligure Inferiore in Liguria near Cinque Terre." width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Italian Hill Town of Vezzano Ligure Inferiore in Liguria near Cinque Terre.</td></tr>
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If you want undiscovered, this is it. Vezzano is where we take guests because it's so genuine, so charming, and its history is so palpable. As a bonus, there are two towns: really old Vezzano Inferiore (<i>basso</i> or lower) and the pretty old Vezzano Superiore (<i>alto</i> or upper). As you drive up, you'll encounter the lower town first.<br />
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<b>Vezzano Inferiore.</b> This town occupies a fabulous location above the confluence of the Magra and Vara rivers with a stunning 360 degree view over the valleys. The town has been occupied since before written records, and the Ligurian tribe had a stonghold here. In the 11th C. the Lords of Vezzano, by virtue of fealty to the Bishop/Counts of Luni, controlled many of the valley towns and beyond as far as Portovenere. By the 13th C., as the Lords and feudalism itself slowly weakened, Vezzano Ligure and the surrounding areas were incorporated into the Republic of Genoa.<br />
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On the piazza at the entrance to the old town is the Church of Saints Sebastian & Maria Assunta from 1602. The interior has a peaceful Baroque decor in warm golden colors. While there, note the early 18th C. Pietà of the Madonna in wood by the Genovese artist Anton Maragliona. This is an interesting example of a popular folk Baroque style that never went viral and is now mainly seen in the exaggerated figures in <i>presepi</i> (creches).<br />
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Not far from the church you can stay in a well-rated hotel in an evocative ex-convent: <b><a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/albergo-al-convento.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Booking.com Albergo Al Convento</a>.</b> Driving to La Spezia Centrale train station parking for the Cinque Terre train takes 30 minutes from the hotel.<br />
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The biggest attraction in the old town are the streets - narrow, twisty or straight; good decor and bad; dead ends or unexpected views. You can wander, photograph, or ponder as long as you like and the cats won't care. The large arches with a rooftop garden you may come across constitute the <i>Porta San Giorgio</i>, the old entrance to the town from the valley. There was a large central castle on the top of the hill, but it's greatly reduced now except for some walls incorporated into houses, a large privately owned manor house - <i>Palazzo Giustiniani</i>, and the very tall watch tower. The tower was built in the 12th C. with five sides for easier defense, and was connected to the castle with a 5 meter drawbridge.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64s1QPOUPdJSLjbIVWqN6-kZyJPyRxPU9BUF8KTgg8YPG9OJEr6yB8lWMZauWZ5mlrNw00I2qwSNGBrdJPcCZrMdXiuIOxfWWZxXjuBYgMIvc-RW_3z6NXaRHL7ybI30aUlSJeTWZ_U2K/s1600/2013+June+10Lerici+Chiavari+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nostra Signora del Soccorso Vezzano Ligure Superiore" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64s1QPOUPdJSLjbIVWqN6-kZyJPyRxPU9BUF8KTgg8YPG9OJEr6yB8lWMZauWZ5mlrNw00I2qwSNGBrdJPcCZrMdXiuIOxfWWZxXjuBYgMIvc-RW_3z6NXaRHL7ybI30aUlSJeTWZ_U2K/s320/2013+June+10Lerici+Chiavari+024.JPG" title="Nostra Signora del Soccorso Vezzano Ligure Superiore" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nostra Signora del Soccorso Vezzano Ligure Superiore</td></tr>
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<b>Vezzano Superiore. </b>This is the loveliest suburban development you will ever see. As Vezzano Inferiore became too crowded in the 16th C. and pilgrims began to crowd into the town, the church fathers decided it was time to expand. The result is this cute <i>borgo</i> that you will enjoy visiting. The upper town is a steady 20 minute climb from the lower town, but you can also drive most of the way up. The first sight to welcome you is ...<br />
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The Church of Our Lady of Soccorso (Rescue) in characteristic Ligurian colors decorates the approach to the upper town. The church was built to honor the Virgin who spoke to a woman from a painting in 1524 and promised protection from an outbreak of plague. Inside it's simply decorated and contains said painting showing the Madonna & Baby. The Piazza in front of the church is beautifully paved entirely with designs created with white and dark gray round cobblestones. This distinct Ligurian art form called <i>'risseu</i>' is used to enhance public places.<br />
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Enter the upper town through an archway off the piazza and enjoy. The village is an ellipse around a wide center main street / piazza. The homes are fairly uniform and an old style water well is in the middle of the piazza. There are various walkways leading out of the ellipse leading to views and backyards and narrow access roads. Words are poor descriptors for a really good multi-sensory travel experience so you just get this: it's really really adorable.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDhuh20mHsfRLPup_KhdNuLR_TH62hbeqpLPQsgRKeH3Y8GG48NrGJaLKEpH0G0SqBCSpGdV20LPs0EQwn0qSpyxXPr9igkBtG0kAQgx8n6QEEvoJBGCNaUyc-cQoDjlVUZwva4W6eg8-/s1600/2016_05_14_Vezzano+%252824%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Panorama from Vezzano Ligure Alto" border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDhuh20mHsfRLPup_KhdNuLR_TH62hbeqpLPQsgRKeH3Y8GG48NrGJaLKEpH0G0SqBCSpGdV20LPs0EQwn0qSpyxXPr9igkBtG0kAQgx8n6QEEvoJBGCNaUyc-cQoDjlVUZwva4W6eg8-/s200/2016_05_14_Vezzano+%252824%2529.JPG" title="Panorama from Vezzano Ligure Alto" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Vezzano Ligure Alto</td></tr>
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Absolutely not to be missed is the little park around what used to be the upper castle. The views are staggering - the valley and the mountains and the town of Vezzano Inferiore are laid out before you. To get there from the well in the center of town, just walk east - away from the sea - and bear left uphill.<br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html" name="Ameglia"></a>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<u>Ameglia</u></h2>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBG6k09nE45zqHRsDIR7nVJ1xBCUDhffjcTZUndOcwX281kiEQB_RBK9QplgN7jZL_nX0I5DapV4DmNIKoQfehcMEdxrW6dbOOHUp7OLYb_xUyLoTmhvk_Bo2M35VU-XXdq904DR9zUTsi/s1600/Ascoli+Piceno+11November+2011+041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Italian Hill Town of Ameglia with its Castle & the Apuan Alps in Liguria." border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBG6k09nE45zqHRsDIR7nVJ1xBCUDhffjcTZUndOcwX281kiEQB_RBK9QplgN7jZL_nX0I5DapV4DmNIKoQfehcMEdxrW6dbOOHUp7OLYb_xUyLoTmhvk_Bo2M35VU-XXdq904DR9zUTsi/s640/Ascoli+Piceno+11November+2011+041.JPG" title="Italian Hill Town of Ameglia with its Castle & the Apuan Alps in Liguria." width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Italian Hill Town of Ameglia with its Castle & the Apuan Alps in Liguria.</td></tr>
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On a special town-sized hill in its own small valley, Ameglia has a proud look about it. And rightly so, since its castle was home to the Bishop Counts of Luni after the Roman city fell into ruin and the whole Lunigiana region was ruled from here. The castle is in the center of town and is reached by going through a grotto-style arch at the end of the old town's main square – <i>Piazza Liberta</i>. There are concentric rings of medieval looking streets around the castle and its companion watchtower - the oldest structure in town. The tower has only one door about 20 feet up. When trouble appeared – usually in the form of Saracen pirates – all the town folk would pile into the tower and the ladder would be pulled up.<br />
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This town's layout gives evidence of the its pre-Christian origins since the church is on the periphery, and as further proof, there's a necropolis of the Ligurian tribe below the center. Walk the rings of little streets and you can peek at the residents' rooftop retreats and gardens, see old Ligurian store fronts and slate door frames, and - especially near the church and on the outer ring - enjoy the views of the little valley and the Apuan Alps. The green hills around you are part of the <i>Montemarcello Magra Park</i> and there are numerous hiking trails throughout.<br />
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The Church of San Vicenzo is not too fancy, even though it dates from the 15th C. but there are some worthwhile artworks, including a three part marble sculpture by Domenico Gar from 1527. When you exit back through the arch, tip your hat at the plaque honoring the 15 brave American soldiers who were executed by the German army in Ameglia in WWII. We wrote about this awful, precedent-setting war crime here: <a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2012/04/liberation-day-ameglia-executions.html" target="_blank"><b>Liberation Day: The Ameglia Executions</b></a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/12/great-italian-hill-towns-near-cinque.html" name="Montemarcello"></a>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<u>Montemarcello</u></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vqBB0dCT7QDSXL0LwuFmK4sr-Wq4IKLEVSYI3fvs7S0QpmluH0DeD57E2EMj8-QyPGEFK-onlbl8b6rjL9zbhVuRiC9JJtKJ7EIVw4qmMaR3FisMflsyWaO15BajVH3KNwDBlLBCOu6z/s1600/montemarcello_pierpeter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Italian Hill Town of Montemarcello in Liguria at sunsel" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vqBB0dCT7QDSXL0LwuFmK4sr-Wq4IKLEVSYI3fvs7S0QpmluH0DeD57E2EMj8-QyPGEFK-onlbl8b6rjL9zbhVuRiC9JJtKJ7EIVw4qmMaR3FisMflsyWaO15BajVH3KNwDBlLBCOu6z/s400/montemarcello_pierpeter.jpg" title="Italian Hill Town of Montemarcello in Liguria at sunset" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Montemarcello sunset. CC by Pierpeter</td></tr>
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Il Paese del Vento - The Village of the Wind - rests on a less precipitous hill and has different origins than many other hill towns. It was a Roman army outpost established about 177 B.C. to protect the city of Luni on the plain to the east. The Roman commander was M. Claudius Marcellus, hence the town name. The original layout conformed to Roman army regulations with long parallel streets leading up to headquarters (near today's central piazza), few cross streets, and Roman defensive palisades which eventually became the former town walls (now streets or building walls).<br />
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Today, Montemarcello's a well-kept prize of a village that celebrates the colors and architecture of Liguria. Most of the residents are seasonal now, but also mostly Italian. The attractions are the village itself - so cool and quiet and pretty; the parish church of San Pietro; a dramatic panoramic outlook on the Gulf of La Spezia; access to the trails and Botanical Gardens of the <i>Montemarcello Magra Park</i>; and access to a hidden beach famous throughout Italy - Punta Corvo.<br />
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The parish Church of San Pietro dates from around 1474. It's large for a town this small, and the pleasant Ligurian pink exterior has been recently renewed. Inside the art works of note are (another) 1529 marble alterpiece by Domenico Gar, and in the first chapel on the left, a enigmatic three panel 14th century painting of the Virgin between Peter and John the Baptist.<br />
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To reach the panoramic outlook, walk south and seaward from the central piazza. You'll reach the paved road near a garden cafe and across the road is the path. Follow it and fork left (the right fork leads to Punta Corvo). You can see the beach of Punta Corvo below you, and the islands of Tino & Palmaria and the town of Portovenere across the gulf. On clear days, the island of Gorgona is visible.<br />
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Close to the panorama is a B&B with exceptionally high ratings: <a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/it/b-amp-b-le-palme-ameglia.html?aid=354603&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Booking.com B&B Le Palme</b></a><br />
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The famed beach of Punta Corvo. Known for its dark sand, pure water, and the dramatic looming cliffs can be reached by a seriously steep path down (and up!) from Montemarcello. Many handsome young Italians do it. We did once as well, so now we tell ordinary folks to go to Fiumaretta (across from Bocca di Magra) and take the boat that runs to the beach.<br />
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Montemarcello is one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of Italy” so we've written more in our <a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/02/the-most-beautiful-villages-in-liguria_25.html" target="_blank"><b>Most Beautiful Villages of Liguria Part 7</b></a> story.<br />
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Getting There</span></u></b></div>
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See <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1dCDh7Pb92yjljd8mYtsyf1fbVjg&usp=sharing" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Liguria & Tuscany Hill Town Map</a> for orientation. Sorry to say, but a car is the only realistic way to reach these towns.<br />
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There won't be adequate road signs so you'll need a map (types discussed below). Here are one way time estimates and the autostrada exits to get you started. The <b>A12 (or E80)</b> is the north/south coastal autostrada Genova to Livorno/Rosignano. The <b>A15 (or E33)</b> is the east/west autostrada from Parma to La Spezia. <b>SS1 Aurelia</b> means the road designated<i> Strada Statale </i>1 Via Aurelia (originally Roman!).<br />
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<b>Fosdinovo</b> A12 Sarzana exit or A15 Santo Stefano exit. About 20 minutes.<br />
<b>Castelnuovo Magra</b> A12 exits Carrara or Sarzana. About 25 minutes.<br />
<b>Ortonovo</b> A12 exit Carrara. About 30 minutes.<br />
<b>Nicola</b> A12 exit Carrara. About 20 minutes.<br />
<b>Vezzano Ligure</b> A12 exit Sarzana 20 minutes or A15 exit Vezzano (westbound only) 10 minutes. From La Spezia SS1 Aurelia, 15 minutes.<br />
<b>Ameglia</b> A12 exits Carrara or Sarzana. About 15 minutes.<br />
<b>Montemarcello</b> A12 exits Carrara or Sarzana. About 20 minutes.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIsPoabyLDIA1NDHL7BWRr7vqucykopUao_VS5EfCtWAeF2rdvyxJTPC1o5v7pC7dkF2OdyHo8_JPE-95fZrflquUQJ8WYE1SQC2LEuw71bMCcLW3aLfggZvqpIjul8WxwqJR1sUvL7qVB/s1600/IMG_1095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Italian Hill Town of Arcola in Liguria" border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIsPoabyLDIA1NDHL7BWRr7vqucykopUao_VS5EfCtWAeF2rdvyxJTPC1o5v7pC7dkF2OdyHo8_JPE-95fZrflquUQJ8WYE1SQC2LEuw71bMCcLW3aLfggZvqpIjul8WxwqJR1sUvL7qVB/s400/IMG_1095.JPG" title="Italian Hill Town of Arcola in Liguria" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Italian Hill Town of Arcola in Liguria</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">More Hill Towns</span></u></b>. If you are staying in the lower Lunigiana, there are even more hill towns for you to explore. They are mostly smaller and less historic than those above, but fascinating nonetheless. Consider: Arcola, Bolano, Caprigliola, Cerri, Falcinello, Follo Alto, La Serra (Lerici), Ponzano Superiore, Tivegno, Trebiano Magra, and Valeriano Lunense.<br />
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Map Types</span></b></u><br />
<u><b>What's the best paper map?</b></u> <i>For driving get 1:200,000 scale. We think the DeAgostini or Touring Club Italiano <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8836548342/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=8836548342&linkCode=as2&tag=wwwapathtolun-20" target="_blank"><b>Touring Club Liguria Map (Amazon Link)</b></a> series are clearer than Michelin. You can also buy one in Italy -larger bookstores and some autostrada rest stops have good selections, but that takes time.</i><br />
<u><b>Should I opt for a GPS for a rental car?</b></u> No - t<i>hey are expensive and many feel they are less useful in Italy. They are not updated often enough and they are useless navigating ZTL's.</i><br />
<u><b>Can I Use an App?</b></u> <i>Yes, the</i><i> smartphone apps like Waze or Google Maps are very useful - but still watch for the ZTL limits. You can now download relevant Google Maps for offline use. Read this extensive discussion: <b><a href="https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/italy/has-anyone-recently-used-googlemaps-app-for-navigation-in-italy" target="_blank">Rick Steves Forum</a>.</b></i><br />
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<b style="color: #990000;">Articles: <a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/11/where-to-rent-car-from-cinque-terre-la.html" target="_blank">Where to Rent a Car from Cinque Terre - La Spezia, Genoa, or Pisa?</a></b><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"> </span><b style="color: #990000;"><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/12/car-rental-company-reviews-for-italy.html" target="_blank">Independent Car Rental Reviews for Italy</a></b><br />
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<b style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; line-height: 16px;"><u>About Us & Disclosure</u></b><br />
<span style="line-height: 16px;">We are Martha and Mike from Boston - recently retired photo editors who enjoy travel, food, and helping people as we've been helped. We have visited Italy for three decades, and we live in Liguria part-time. We have no connection to the car rental or hotel industries, and we receive no payments or free stuff for our writing or opinions. </span><span style="line-height: 16px;">As is internet convention, we receive the standard commission for clicks on many of the commercial links that result in a purchase. Thus your clicks will help support this website.</span><br />
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Written by Mike. If you find an error or omission please let us know. If you have a question, give us a try. If you don't hear back it's because we don't know or we're traveling. There's a contact form at the bottom of the page. Thanks.<br />
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Ligurian Proverb: <i>Chi si accontenta gode. </i>Those who are content enjoy.<br />
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Some of our Liguria Travel Articles</span></u></b><br />
<a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/03/cinque-terre-16-tips-for-avoiding-crowds.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Cinque Terre - 16 Tips for Avoiding the Crowds</a> Yes, it's popular, but you can have a great time.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2013/01/getting-to-portovenere.html" target="_blank">Getting to Portovenere</a> </b> All about buses, parking, hiking, taxis, hotels, boats in Portovenere.<br />
<a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/09/portovenere-travel-guide-top-ten.html" target="_blank"><b>Portovenere Travel Guide - The Top Ten Attractions</b></a> Portovenere's attractions for inquiring minds.<br />
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<a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2011/06/castle-to-castle-along-gulf-of-poets.html" target="_blank"><b>Castle to Castle Along the Gulf of the Poets</b></a> All about Lerici - exploring, parking and hotels.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2011/04/getting-around-la-spezia-lunigiana-gulf.html" target="_blank">Getting Around La Spezia</a> </b>Describes parking in La Spezia, as well as bus info and other goodies.<br />
<b><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/06/la-spezia-travel-guide-top-ten.html" target="_blank">La Spezia Travel Guide: Top Ten Attractions</a> </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">as told by people who have </span>actually b<span style="font-family: inherit;">een there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/06/a-guide-to-local-food-of-la-spezia.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">A Guide to the Local Food around La Spezia</a><b> </b>Food of the area, as told by expert <i>mangioni</i>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/10/the-via-dellamore-is-reopening.html" target="_blank">Cinque Terre's Path of Love Is Reopening</a> </b><span style="color: black;">But don't reserve yet - it should be in 2023.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><b style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><u><br /></u></b></div>
<a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/05/getting-to-portofino-walking-hiking-and.html" target="_blank"><b>Getting to Portofino - Walking, Hiking, and More</b></a> Describes fabulous walking and hiking from Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino.<br />
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<a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2013/12/the-most-beautiful-villages-in-liguria.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">The Most Beautiful Villages of Liguria Part 1 The Rock Villages</a> A 7-part series covering 28 great little towns.<br />
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All the photos here were taken by us unless otherwise attributed. Use the Contact Box below for our free copyright permission for non-commercial uses. The attributions 'CC by' indicate photos used through a Creative Commons License. They are not altered and can be found on <b><a href="https://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank">Flickr</a></b> (Pierpeter) or Wikimedia (Papalini).<br />
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Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-14081256392636832192016-06-26T18:16:00.000-04:002018-05-31T04:05:41.237-04:00Independent Car Rental Price Comparisons for Italy. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Economy & Compact Size </b><b>Car Hire Prices Compared. </b></span></h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="font-size: x-large;"> </b><span style="font-size: large;">Easily Find the Best Car Hire Deals with our Price Tables. </span></span></h3>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<b>Beware 'cheap car rental' offers, fly-by-night internet brokers & unknown car rental companies. </b></h4>
Of course you are looking for the best and lowest price for a car rental in Italy. But if you just take the cheapest price, you may well regret it as the car hire industry has some bad actors and bad practices.<br>
<br>
One <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>danger</b></span>: <u>low ball quotes</u> are used to hook you, but later you may find expensive add-ons, intense 'upselling' of insurance, high mileage cars, and off-airport facilities. Another <b style="color: #cc0000;">danger</b> - car classes can be deceptive - be sure you're comparing similar models. For example, the Fiat Panda is separate below because it is smaller than the other Economy models - especially for baggage. More <b style="color: #cc0000;">danger</b>: don't decide from the initial quote - look at the final total including tax and deceptive 'franchise' and refueling fees. Hertz quoted $141. for a Panda on the first web page, but the total to pay at the reservation page was $381.00 !<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUmUuTRQ6uDfeP73qZQRj0-2ghAxAu15z7qmkubc1r6pawQPILYig34hjEctO3_kBcAa4cFG3Wo1g1WVZsB9j2S4jpIEhFebXVhglZLbUVpWyKt0zqHqmrgkLa-97kYPE2wZ8c0APGQ3Kz/s1600/Pisa+13+Nov+2014+042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fiat 500 Mini and Renault Captur Compact, Carrara, Italy." border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUmUuTRQ6uDfeP73qZQRj0-2ghAxAu15z7qmkubc1r6pawQPILYig34hjEctO3_kBcAa4cFG3Wo1g1WVZsB9j2S4jpIEhFebXVhglZLbUVpWyKt0zqHqmrgkLa-97kYPE2wZ8c0APGQ3Kz/s400/Pisa+13+Nov+2014+042.JPG" title="Fiat 500 Mini and Renault Captur Compact, Carrara, Italy." width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> parking </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">lines signal pay parking. Carrara, Tuscany.</span><br>
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Shown are a Fiat 500 Mini (not the 'L' or 'X') & a Renault Captur Compact.</span></td></tr>
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In the 1980's, we hired our first rental in Italy: a VW Beetle with no seat belts and a full ashtray. Since then we've learned a lot that can help you. We've rented cars in Italy over 50 times since that first dog - from every major car rental company and all over the country. We also monitor Italian news, related Italian & English blogs, and several Italian traveler forums.<br>
<br>
If this article is not for you, see the <b>Car Rental Help</b> tab above, <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>but</b></span> be sure to read our most popular car hire article:<br>
<b style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">Link:</b><span style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"> </span><b style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/12/car-rental-company-reviews-for-italy.html" target="_blank">Independent Car Rental Reviews for Italy</a></b><br>
<br>
<b style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Independent Car Hire Price Comparisons</u></b><br>
Read the three tables below with price comparisons and you'll quickly see why you need this research - the price spreads are BIG. The prices are shown for: <b>Compact Size</b>, <b>Economy Size</b>, and <b>Economy Fiat Panda</b>. We list the <u>assumptions</u> used below the price comparisons. In particular, we have <u>not</u> <u>reported</u> some companies' lower prices because - in our opinion - they have <span style="color: #cc0000;">way too many</span> complaints. Also, your travel circumstances might have different needs - an additional driver, a child seat, or a different pick-up city could change the price balance.<br>
</div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/06/independent-car-rental-price.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-22578378089927617792016-03-30T10:25:00.000-04:002019-04-22T00:59:22.459-04:00The Day Italy Tried to Stop Mussolini's Fascism. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><b>The Unsung Story of a Small City's Resistance to Fascism. </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b>The 'Facts of Sarzana' Begin With A Fascist / Socialist Confrontation. </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;">It Ends with Fourteen Fascists Killed by Carabinieri or Political Opponents. </span></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;"> </span> </b></span></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitkjfFpspvaNDnq6Mf5DofIPBSFrDEb3PyjdQ9m6rcJ1fbtVBtGQcVdu1DKu0f55AcB4qksKLndg_gnWzduby-xKKCkJajtJuPVnx0cMfMPg-TRC3rW5sXQ9-cqcHBI7GmUVVhx3Rlhe_h/s1600/Sarzana+Fascist+Victim+7May2011+006+%25282%2529-vert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fatti di Sarzana Memorial to Fascist Victim" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitkjfFpspvaNDnq6Mf5DofIPBSFrDEb3PyjdQ9m6rcJ1fbtVBtGQcVdu1DKu0f55AcB4qksKLndg_gnWzduby-xKKCkJajtJuPVnx0cMfMPg-TRC3rW5sXQ9-cqcHBI7GmUVVhx3Rlhe_h/s400/Sarzana+Fascist+Victim+7May2011+006+%25282%2529-vert.jpg" title="Fatti di Sarzana Memorial to Fascist Victim" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">First victim of fascist violence, here fell Luigi</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"> Gastardelli, June 12, 1921. Sarzana, Liguria. </span></td></tr>
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On a back street in the peaceful Ligurian city of Sarzana, a little plaque marks an infamous event in Italian history. It is the spot where an innocent man, Luigi Gastardelli, became the area's first victim of fascist violence - shot by a <i>squadrista</i> firing carelessly as fascists rampaged in Sarzana's streets. Italian politics in 1921 were chaotic and political violence between rival groups was becoming common, but the symbolism of this death was clear: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benito_Mussolini" target="_blank"><b>Mussolini's</b></a> new political ideology had evolved and the fascist squadrons felt they could act with impunity.<br />
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The violence that erupted in Sarzana on June 12, 1921, was the opening of a series of conflicts over several weeks known as '<i>I</i> <i>Fatti di Sarzana</i>' (The Facts of Sarzana). It is historically important as one of the few armed resistance efforts against the rise of fascism in Italy. Reflecting the times, it involved armed fascists, the Royal Army, police, socialists, communists, anarchists, farmers, workers, and a paramilitary group known as the <i>Arditi del Popolo</i> (comprised of socialist-communist workers). The Sarzana conflict culminated on July 21 with the death of 14 fascists by carabinieri rifle fire or sectarian assault, and of one corporal of the Royal Army by fascist fire. Ominously, although the events drew national attention, the example of the events at Sarzana did not serve as a spur for meaningful resistance to fascism by the King, the government, or other political parties.<br />
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<u>Prologue</u>. Prior to the <i>Fatti di Sarzana</i>, the political climate in the Lunigiana region was determined by local elections in the autumn of 1920. Most of the area's cities, including Carrara, voted for the fascist party and its allies. Only Sarzana and the neighboring towns of Santo Stefano and Ortonovo elected the PSI - socialist. This vote in the Tuscan / Ligurian area mirrored the polarity of much of post-WWI Northern Italy. During early 1921, there were clashes and occupations in the area - including in Sarzana and in the nearby larger city of La Spezia - involving opposing political factions. The fascist movement was expanding and turning to the right politically, causing strong reactions from both fascist adherents and the opposition. In the weeks prior to the <i>Fatti</i>, a fascist paramilitary <i>squadra</i> was formed in Carrara, to the south, and both La Spezia and Pontremoli, to the north, had finally submitted to de facto fascist control, leaving the socialist Sarzana area a 'red island' surrounded by fascist paramilitary <i>squadre</i> - the infamous 'Blackshirts'. <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.k6SX8OKXJ3nk&usp=sharing" target="_blank"><b>'The Facts of Sarzana' Locations Map</b></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEJshygYjDV-phdq3rPQOYHva41Zw4MPDRmY5gXcLfh4gJnCHUEHH2zREwqPAikFAZjtoeYn0MCsD2Es038ETOUkUtrCCEGnaIV8HijvZgtqaH9O_lI0eoyhnrzfKNJX3Ne5eG-3e9iPS/s1600/Sarzana+Street+19+April+2014+072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Street in Sarzana Liguria Italy" border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEJshygYjDV-phdq3rPQOYHva41Zw4MPDRmY5gXcLfh4gJnCHUEHH2zREwqPAikFAZjtoeYn0MCsD2Es038ETOUkUtrCCEGnaIV8HijvZgtqaH9O_lI0eoyhnrzfKNJX3Ne5eG-3e9iPS/s400/Sarzana+Street+19+April+2014+072.jpg" title="Street in Sarzana Liguria Italy" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarzana's peaceful streets today. In 1921 fascists rampaged here firing wildly.</td></tr>
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<u>First Conflict</u>. On June 12, 1921, trucks carrying an armed squadron of Carrara Blackshirts lead by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renato_Ricci" target="_blank"><b>Renato Ricci</b></a> stopped while passing through Sarzana. Ricci was a veteran and enthusiastic fascist who had formed the Carrara <i>squadra</i> and who would go on to hold several major positions in Mussolini's government. The police and Royal Army commanders, fearing a conflict with Sarzana's militant socialists, moved to neutralize the situation. While the negotiating ensued, a fascist was clubbed bloody nearby. Seeking revenge, the <i>squadristi</i> -lead by Ricci - began a rampage through Sarzana's streets, firing revolvers down side streets to intimidate opponents and prevent an ambush. Luigi Gastardelli, a 65 year old father of twelve on his way home from work, was hit by that fire and died at the scene. Further conflict was avoided only when the Royal Army threatened the Blackshirts with rifles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdlZHBj9VHfCAoAgOCC7nMug_V4FbKnFzkhjWsS2SS0SbzhQcOWdCoh0VI0lokDx-_HMXEV53nsTKSsvyrjr8Tx_WjJ-mYh7z_JQq8exmIhbe3uf-vC3ajQnzjTA-Jy2iWbWNZTyunkhQ/s1600/Renato+Ricci+early.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Carrara's Renato Ricci" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdlZHBj9VHfCAoAgOCC7nMug_V4FbKnFzkhjWsS2SS0SbzhQcOWdCoh0VI0lokDx-_HMXEV53nsTKSsvyrjr8Tx_WjJ-mYh7z_JQq8exmIhbe3uf-vC3ajQnzjTA-Jy2iWbWNZTyunkhQ/s1600/Renato+Ricci+early.jpg" title="Carrara's Renato Ricci" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Carrara's Renato Ricci</span></td></tr>
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<u>Tensions Increase, Fateful Arrests are Made</u>. <br />
In the weeks following, national and local events increased tensions, and on July 15 violence broke out again when a fascist named Pietro Procuranti was murdered in Fosdinovo, a few miles from Sarzana. On July 17, after Procuranti's funeral in nearby Monzone, Renato Ricci and the Carrara Blackshirts attacked a citizen's cooperative and killed two communists. Subsequently as they returned to Carrara, the <i>squadriste</i> came under fire at Santo Stefano, just up the road from Sarzana, and several were wounded. In response, the fascists attacked and killed three men and wounded several more.<br />
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As they reached Sarzana's outskirts, the Blackshirts were stopped by the Royal Army and forced to leave their vehicles and walk on rural roads to avoid conflict in town. On route, the fascists provoked a firefight with the leftist group <i>Arditi del Popolo</i> and a fascist was killed. Upon learning of the violence, Royal Army Lieutenant Nicodemi ordered the arrest of Ricci and ten other fascists for political violence and they were imprisoned in the Fortress Firmafede at the edge of central Sarzana. To the outrage of the fascists, no member of the <i>Arditi del Popolo</i> were arrested for the killing of their comrade.<br />
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<u>Escalation and Bloody Resolution</u><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4OMvZivunRPx6oh2Wu44GjXK_mxFACJej1muGRNalgVbHeHjfzpwgthvts4n0aKPGGHfMz9PMHSJDWA5uJjdX-mA7sS2PmF5DAjzAoMF6q07bE-9pA5EMLQ5ajHC7gdjhgj0IdfrKpeH4/s1600/Firmafede+2+Nov+2014+023+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fortezza Firmafede, Sarzana" border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4OMvZivunRPx6oh2Wu44GjXK_mxFACJej1muGRNalgVbHeHjfzpwgthvts4n0aKPGGHfMz9PMHSJDWA5uJjdX-mA7sS2PmF5DAjzAoMF6q07bE-9pA5EMLQ5ajHC7gdjhgj0IdfrKpeH4/s400/Firmafede+2+Nov+2014+023+%25282%2529.jpg" title="Fortezza Firmafede, Sarzana" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Fortezza Firmafede, Sarzana. In 1921, it was a prison.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"> Fascist </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Blackshirts</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">trying to </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">release 11 fascist prisoners were met by Royal Army Carabinieri.</span></td></tr>
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The violence of July 17 caused a rapid escalation as a larger confrontation seemed inevitable. In Sarzana, a Committee of Public Safety was formed which included socialists, communists, anarchists, and republicans lead by Mayor Arnaldo Terzi. They proclaimed a general strike for July 18 which was joined by La Spezia workers and railroad employees. A surveillance and messaging system was established to warn of trouble. On July 20, Royal Army reinforcements were sent from Genoa so that the forces of order were increased to 50 police, 150 Royal Guards, and 200 infantry soldiers. On July 19 and 20, fascist forces from Tuscany and Liguria assembled in preparation for a punitive attack on Sarzana which would target socialist and communist offices and liberate the eleven jailed fascists.<br />
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At dawn on July 21, a force of about 300 armed fascists, some carrying cans of gasoline, arrived at the Sarzana rail station. They were lead by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amerigo_Dumini" target="_blank"><b>Amerigo Dumini</b></a>, later part of Mussolini's secret police, and the killer of the heroic politician <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giacomo_Matteotti" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Giacomo Matteotti</a> in 1924. The fascists were met by a small vanguard of Royal Carabinieri lead by Captain Guido Jurgens backed by other forces who sealed off the town. Amerigo Dumini came forward and presented the fascist demands: release the eleven prisoners, turn over Lieutenant Nicodemi, and allow the fascists to occupy Sarzana. Jurgens firmly rejected the demands.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPKH_ls0SthdLrnAlwU-OCPfwNtdVqWnbhho3BD2JUqCSM7YyZUiwq3AqqOOyyjU7J1Xve8rpT7npRYp9jU3Um1C7nbwPDKZLivx_IOZvh2Gf9UcepvS7Wz6grQpE0_r4EDJNYh6xyiyVp/s1600/Amerigo_Dumini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPKH_ls0SthdLrnAlwU-OCPfwNtdVqWnbhho3BD2JUqCSM7YyZUiwq3AqqOOyyjU7J1Xve8rpT7npRYp9jU3Um1C7nbwPDKZLivx_IOZvh2Gf9UcepvS7Wz6grQpE0_r4EDJNYh6xyiyVp/s200/Amerigo_Dumini.jpg" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amerigo Dumini, fascist<br />
& killer of Matteotti.</td></tr>
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Upon a sign from Dumini, the Blackshirts began to advance. At this point, a rifle shot of disputed origin rang out from the direction the station, wounding a carabiniere in the arm. In response, the carabinieri opened fire as did the fascists. In the exchange, which lasted about a minute, four fascists were killed outright and many wounded, two of whom later died, and an infantryman, Corporal Paolo Diano, was killed. In the aftermath, more than a hundred fascists sheltered in the train station, and many others scattered into the countryside - countryside that was controlled by the leftist <i>Arditi del Popolo</i> and a left-leaning peasantry. Five fascists were murdered trying to escape this way, some by farmers and some by <i>Arditi</i>, and several others were rescued by carabinieri. The remaining <i>squadristi</i> were taken by special train back to Carrara.<br />
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The Royal prosecutor released Ricci and the other ten <i>squadristi</i> from the Firmafede jail several hours later.<br />
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<u>Afterward</u><br />
The day after the shootings the fascist leader Count Dino Grandi made a prescient statement about fascism and the event. No one at the time could have imagined how it would echo in history: "The sacrifice of our brothers will not be in vain. Our daily struggle is a necessary protection of civil law. We are not a faction of the State, we feel instead that we are the State and the Nation."<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2JvMOMCEWtcaKUAqyBN11RsJFZsyQom3ylvjgrTnY-9AlGlwbrycd4Sy11-amnJushOQNR4DUdB_zlC8NCmugCMR8C00Km33_mt_vcrDsKt0DMHyoDVaSrZD7LPs0UkhJVvHnVH7e1pPo/s1600/Jurgens_Guido_Marmo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Piazza Guido Jurgens outside Sarzana's train station." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2JvMOMCEWtcaKUAqyBN11RsJFZsyQom3ylvjgrTnY-9AlGlwbrycd4Sy11-amnJushOQNR4DUdB_zlC8NCmugCMR8C00Km33_mt_vcrDsKt0DMHyoDVaSrZD7LPs0UkhJVvHnVH7e1pPo/s1600/Jurgens_Guido_Marmo.jpg" title="Piazza Guido Jurgens outside Sarzana's train station." /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The piazza outside Sarzana's train<br />
station now honors Captain Jurgens.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At the national level Mussolini protested in parliament accusing the government of involvement in the shooting. However, the fascist protests came to nothing. The more lasting effect of the Sarzana deaths was to push Mussolini, the socialists and the national workers union into a Peace Agreement in August, 1921. But the peace agreement itself was not the lasting effect. Long term, the split in the fascist ranks caused by that signing allowed Mussolini to consolidate power with the formation of the Nationalist Fascist Party (NFP) in November 1921. By October of 1922, just 15 months after <i>'I Fatti di Sarzana'</i>, Mussolini was Prime Minister.<br />
<br />
Despite Sarzana's resistance, the fascists took over city government less than two years after the shootings. After a politically motivated prefectural investigation of city government, Mayor Terzi and councilors resigned shortly before a large fascist rally on the first anniversary of the <i>Fatti. </i>A Royal decree established a<i> </i>commissioner for the city until elections were held in 1923. By election time, Mussolini was the Prime Minister and the fascists won the mayoralty and all the council seats.<br />
<br />
The Sarzana Mayor Arnaldo Terzi came to symbolize the 'Facts of Sarzana' for the fascists. In 1944, they got their revenge. With the advent of the German puppet state, the 'Repubblica Sociale Italiana', Terzi was deported to the Nazi's Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria where he died of starvation in April, 1945, a few days before the camp was liberated.<br />
<br />
Many authoritative historians believe as did Sandro Pertini, 7th President of the Italian Republic, when he said:<br />
"If, in all the Italian cities, the fascist violence would have been stopped as in Sarzana, fascism would not have been established."<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">More Info</span></u></b></div>
<br />
<b><i><u>I Fatti di Sarzana</u>.</i></b> The story of these chaotic events has been simplified to make a succinct narrative, but we maintained all the essential events. There is little available in English, but these Italian sites provide fuller information:<br />
Wikipedia Italia has a detailed narrative: <b><a href="https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fatti_di_Sarzana" target="_blank">Wikipedia Fatti di Sarzana</a>.</b><br />
Extensive<b> </b>illustrated<b> </b>blog<b> </b><a href="http://stragedisarzana.blogspot.com/" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Strage di Sarzana</a> seemingly with some fascist sympathies.<br />
<a href="http://www.anppia.it/news/2014/07/22/21-luglio-1921-i-fatti-di-sarzana/" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">ANPPIA News</a> An Italian antifascist group with a vivid partial account.<br />
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<b><i><u>I Fatti di Parma</u>.</i></b> Another significant resistance to fascism, known as 'The Facts of Parma', occurred in August, 1922. While only two people died, it is better known as more people were involved including Italo Balbo a famous Italian aviator and fascist. <b><a href="https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fatti_di_Parma" target="_blank">Wikipedia Fatti di Parma</a>.</b><br />
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<b><u>Mussolini.</u></b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">Mussolini and the </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: start;">Quadrumviri</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"> during the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_on_Rome" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none;" title="March on Rome">March on Rome</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"> in 1922</span></span></td></tr>
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Before Hitler in Germany and Franco in Spain, Benito Mussolini created fascism. An opportunistic genius, he utilized violence by his supporters and shrewd maneuvering to gain dictatorial power in Italy. While he was too sly to be directly tied to violence, he used it against critics and opponents such as the murders of the politician <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giacomo_Matteotti" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Matteotti</a>, the priest <b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Minzoni" target="_blank">Don Minzoni</a> </b>and the journalist <b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovanni_Amendola" target="_blank">Amendola</a></b>. The fascist reign of terror became total and overcame all opposition ...and no, he didn't make the trains run on time, he simply controlled newspaper stories about them.</div>
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Mussolini - <i>Il Duce</i> - is one of history's more fascinating figures and his contradictions make him impossible to understand. Evil and dynamic, vain and brutal, idealistic and incompetent, he destroyed his country but he still has admirers in modern Italy. His techniques still appear in the politics of many countries as he manipulated the array of human emotions that we all share.<br />
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<b>Wikipedia</b> The <b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benito_Mussolini" target="_blank">Mussolini</a> </b>article in English is extensive and balanced.<br />
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<b>Biographies</b> There is an mini publishing industry built on Mussolini and fascist Italy. The English author Dennis Mack Smith spares not: <a href="http://amzn.to/1UrMdjV" target="_blank"><b>Mussolini: A Biography</b></a> and a more recent work: <a href="http://amzn.to/1MQNeKm" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Mussolini By R.J.B. Bosworth</a> is also well-regarded.</div>
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Fascism is the promotion of an authoritarian nationalist agenda that tolerates or promotes violence and inequality. Whatever your country or your politics, the lesson from Sarzana is the importance of stopping elements of fascism as they emerge: nationalism that is beyond healthy patriotism; those who promote racial, class, or religious intolerance or inequality; or those that tolerate or incite violence. Civilization depends on it. Ask any Italian.<br />
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Written by Mike<br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/109874875615046328762?rel=author"></a>
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Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-29633519632566382292016-03-24T14:29:00.001-04:002019-04-22T01:00:58.867-04:00The Cinque Terre Express Train Service Begins. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span class="" lang="en"><span title="Pasqua alle Cinque Terre con il “5 Terre Express” di Trenitalia Regionale.">The '5 Terre Express' Train Runs Every 30 Minutes to All Five Cinque Terre Villages. </span></span></h2>
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<span class="" lang="en"><span title="Pasqua alle Cinque Terre con il “5 Terre Express” di Trenitalia Regionale.">Stops: La Spezia Migliarina, Centrale, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Manarola, Vernazza, Monterosso, Levanto. </span></span></h4>
<span title="Pasqua alle Cinque Terre con il “5 Terre Express” di Trenitalia Regionale."><br /></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hu0vBLXy8ymvpARvF3y3bFIPrwo5hvDYod7n8J-_AElqjZK8zD-rObU5FVmoflhODgHsoMN8jO4pFp0LvmR7SGGKGIJqNDCUOFhAG-QMbNzTTen5Ul0tGboDP9wbpmFKI3QGSoR14vov/s1600/Lorraine_Tan_Manarola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Manarola at Twilight Cinque Terre" border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hu0vBLXy8ymvpARvF3y3bFIPrwo5hvDYod7n8J-_AElqjZK8zD-rObU5FVmoflhODgHsoMN8jO4pFp0LvmR7SGGKGIJqNDCUOFhAG-QMbNzTTen5Ul0tGboDP9wbpmFKI3QGSoR14vov/s400/Lorraine_Tan_Manarola.jpg" title="Manarola at Twilight Cinque Terre" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manarola at Twilight CC By Lorraine Tan</td></tr>
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<span title="Pasqua alle Cinque Terre con il “5 Terre Express” di Trenitalia Regionale.">Just in time for the long Easter weekend in the Cinque Terre, the new "Cinque Terre Express" train service begins Saturday, March 26, 2016. Operated by Trenitalia Regionale with support from the Region of Liguria</span><span title="Prenderà il via a pieno regime, dal 26 marzo, in coincidenza con il ponte pasquale, il nuovo servizio di mobilità tra i borghi liguri Patrimonio dell’Umanità dell’Unesco, realizzato da Trenitalia insieme alla Regione Liguria.
">, the new service will enhance transportation options to the famous five villages comprising part of the Ligurian UNESCO World
Heritage Site.</span><br />
<span title="Prenderà il via a pieno regime, dal 26 marzo, in coincidenza con il ponte pasquale, il nuovo servizio di mobilità tra i borghi liguri Patrimonio dell’Umanità dell’Unesco, realizzato da Trenitalia insieme alla Regione Liguria.
"><br /></span>
<span class="" id="result_box" lang="en"><span title="Prenderà il via a pieno regime, dal 26 marzo, in coincidenza con il ponte pasquale, il nuovo servizio di mobilità tra i borghi liguri Patrimonio dell’Umanità dell’Unesco, realizzato da Trenitalia insieme alla Regione Liguria.
"></span></span><br />
<span class="" id="result_box" lang="en"><span title="Prenderà il via a pieno regime, dal 26 marzo, in coincidenza con il ponte pasquale, il nuovo servizio di mobilità tra i borghi liguri Patrimonio dell’Umanità dell’Unesco, realizzato da Trenitalia insieme alla Regione Liguria.
"></span><span title="Saranno 44 le corse giornaliere tra Levanto e La Spezia che tutti i giorni collegheranno direttamente, ogni mezz’ora, le località di Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola e Riomaggiore.
">There will be 44 daily trips in both directions between Levanto and La Spezia Migliarina Station* every half hour with intermediate stops at </span></span>La Spezia Centrale, Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia,Vernazza, and Monterosso. Trenitalia Regionale Liguria is to provide reception, information and assistance to passengers, and enhanced 'customer care' during busy times.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUI_ISaP4mMnbcNQeCz2s5dSXv3H9SHlFxvR9cxemR0_67KMB7RX4mxOnCo9YdCx7nN8xxUCkv1w6Sr4utQGDJjdnT9EaXq-0_N62JKgKYnNbe0AqQs1HLU2IAfcPJsMX4Pr1dLQR9iADF/s1600/Kylie+%2526+Rob+%2528and+Helen%2529+Vernazza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Crowded Vernazza Train Station Cinque Terre" border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUI_ISaP4mMnbcNQeCz2s5dSXv3H9SHlFxvR9cxemR0_67KMB7RX4mxOnCo9YdCx7nN8xxUCkv1w6Sr4utQGDJjdnT9EaXq-0_N62JKgKYnNbe0AqQs1HLU2IAfcPJsMX4Pr1dLQR9iADF/s400/Kylie+%2526+Rob+%2528and+Helen%2529+Vernazza.jpg" title="Crowded Vernazza Train Station Cinque Terre" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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For 2016 the new 'Cinque Terre Express' train will mean much less crowding.</div>
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Vernazza Train Station. CC By Kylie & Rob (and Helen)</div>
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<span class="" lang="en"><span title="Nella prima fase di lancio saranno inoltre mantenute invariate per tutti, sia residenti che turisti, le attuali tariffe.
"><br /></span></span>
<span class="" lang="en"><span title="Nella prima fase di lancio saranno inoltre mantenute invariate per tutti, sia residenti che turisti, le attuali tariffe.
">In the first phase of the service, fares will be kept unchanged at </span></span>the current rates for all, both residents and tourists. The
"5 Terre Express" will remain active until 1 November and will benefit both commuters and tourists with less crowded trains.<br />
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It is expected that La Spezia's many cruise ship passengers travelling to the Cinque Terre will be boarded at Migliarina Station, thus relieving congestion at La Spezia's Centrale Station.<br />
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See our map of La Spezia for the Centrale and Migliarina train station locations. <b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=zo4dzcgoRXuY.kI02Pidw5iDk&usp=sharing" target="_blank">Map: La Spezia Transportation Hubs</a></b><br />
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* Traveler beware. We visited Migliarina station on May 30, and there was no notice on the schedule board or other signs about CT trains. There's also no one to ask, as there's no ticket window.<br />
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Some of Our Area Stories</span></u></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/03/cinque-terre-16-tips-for-avoiding-crowds.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Cinque Terre - 16 Tips for Avoiding the Crowds</a> Yes, it's popular, but you can have a great time.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2013/04/spring-weather-in-liguria.html" target="_blank">Spring Weather & Holidays in Liguria</a> </b>When should you should visit? Answers on the left.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/09/portovenere-travel-guide-top-ten.html"><b>Portovenere Travel Guide - The Top Ten Attractions</b></a> All about beautiful nearby Portovenere.<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/06/complete-cinque-terre-portovenere-la.html" target="_blank">Complete Summer Cinque Terre, Portovenere, La Spezia Boat / Ferry Schedules</a></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/06/la-spezia-travel-guide-top-ten.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">La Spezia Travel Guide: Top Ten Attractions</a> No one who goes to La Spezia doesn't like it!</span><br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/06/a-guide-to-local-food-of-la-spezia.html" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">A Guide to the Local Food around La Spezia</a><b style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> </b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Food of the Gulf area, including Cinque Terre</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/02/the-most-beautiful-villages-in-liguria_25.html" target="_blank">Most Beautiful Villages of Liguria Part 7</a> </b>Four Gulf villages including Tellaro, Montemarcello.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2012/05/jewish-ghetto-of-lerici.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">The Jewish Ghetto of Lerici</a> An ordinary Ligurian street crowded with a unique history.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2012/06/forgotten-villages-of-gulf-of-poets.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">The Forgotten Villages of the Gulf of the Poets</a> Hike to ancient abandoned villages above Lerici.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/05/getting-to-portofino-walking-hiking-and.html" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Getting to Portofino - Walking, Hiking and More</a><b style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"> </b><span style="color: black;">Walk, Hike, Boat or Bus to famous </span><span style="color: black;">Portofino.</span><br />
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<b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Where to Stay to See Cinque Terre?</span></b><br />
<b>Riomaggiore </b><b><a href="http://www.booking.com/city/it/riomaggiore.html?aid=354603" target="_blank">Booking.com Riomaggiore</a> </b>Closest to La Spezia & Portovenere, very characteristic.<br />
<b>Manarola </b><b> </b><a href="http://www.booking.com/city/it/manarola.html?aid=354603" target="_blank"><b>Booking.com Manarola</b></a> Very photogenic & colorful- more fishing boats and the famous terraces.<br />
<b>Corniglia </b><a href="http://www.booking.com/city/it/corniglia.html?aid=354603" target="_blank"><b>Booking.com Corniglia</b></a> Pretty on a promontory high above the sea with historic church & least crowded.<br />
<b>Vernazza </b><b><a href="http://www.booking.com/city/it/vernazza.html?aid=354603" target="_blank">Booking.com Vernazza</a> </b>Prettiest, most celebrated & photogenic town with the most visitors.<br />
<b>Monterosso</b><b> </b><a href="http://www.booking.com/city/it/monterosso-al-mare.html?aid=354603" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Booking.com Monterosso</a> Larger town with resort feel & the most services. Best beach, some parking.<br />
<b>Cinque Terre (All) <a href="http://www.booking.com/region/it/lecinqueterre.html?aid=354603" target="_blank">Booking.com Cinque Terre</a> </b>For multi-day visits:<b> <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-6386226-10859031-1449079035000?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homeaway.com%2Fvacation-rentals%2Fitaly%2Fcinque-terre%2Fr57504" target="_blank">HomeAway(CinqueTerre)</a></b><br />
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<b style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;">Liguria Hotel Guide </b><b style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;">& City Selector</b><br />
Use a pretty Ligurian town nearby as a base to see Cinque Terre. We describe all the Pluses & Minuses.<br />
<b>Link: <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/02/hotel-recommendations-portovenere.html" target="_blank">Part 1: Cinque Terre South - Gulf of the Poets</a></b></div>
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<b>Link: <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/10/liguria-hotel-guide-city-selector-Part-1.html" target="_blank">Part 2: Cinque Terre North to Portofino</a></b></div>
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<b>Link: </b><b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/10/liguria-hotel-guide-city-selector-part.html" target="_blank">Part 3: Towns on the Portofino Peninsula</a> </b></div>
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<b>Your reservations support this site. Our links do not affect prices. Thanks for helping us help travelers.</b></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black;">Written by Mike Mazzaschi</span><br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/109874875615046328762?rel=author"></a>
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Photos with the credit 'CC BY' are used via a Creative Commons copyright license. They are not altered, and can be found on <a href="https://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank"><b>Flickr</b></a>.<br />
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Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-79451013017601028012016-03-15T17:51:00.004-04:002024-02-02T13:01:08.332-05:00Cinque Terre - 16 Tips to Avoid the Crowds in 2024. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
How You Can Skip the Lines in Cinque Terre</span></h2>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Pointers on Where to Stay, When to Go, Where to Hike, What to Do for the Best Visit</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD4eDX8FIGOVw5YgejJ1jIQ46eOmPV6cFuBOHHUVvYbfWEjfxtJlt2w_ealq-nfCgc6EnCKpVeittaUkC9CQs36LaxwlpfRHCCWMgEDfcEL_dMy5cfQHXEInuKX80497GXIpa7NuGv4EXd/s1600/VERN+Raffaele+Sergi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vernazza in Cinque Terre with the Mediterranean" border="0" data-original-height="1378" data-original-width="919" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD4eDX8FIGOVw5YgejJ1jIQ46eOmPV6cFuBOHHUVvYbfWEjfxtJlt2w_ealq-nfCgc6EnCKpVeittaUkC9CQs36LaxwlpfRHCCWMgEDfcEL_dMy5cfQHXEInuKX80497GXIpa7NuGv4EXd/s400/VERN+Raffaele+Sergi.jpg" title="Vernazza in Cinque Terre with the Mediterranean" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vernazza in Cinque Terre CC by Raffaele Sergi</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">The Best Advice to Minimize or Avoid Cinque Terre Crowding</span></b><br />
You are going to love the Cinque Terre (CT), but you should realize these five <u>small</u> villages are <u>very</u> popular so they can get too crowded. As in lining-up-to-walk-down-the-main-street crowded; as in 2.5 million visitors in 2016. Rick Steves and the New York Times have written about the Cinque Terre so many times, you need to visit the Cinque Terre places and activities that are less well known. We hope these tips will lead you in that direction. They are presented to help you make informed decisions, not to worry you. Plan ahead for sure, but don't plan every hour, and remember you'll be in wonderful, fabulous Italy - the land that invented gelato and <i>dolce far niente.*</i><br />
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We've gathered the best 16 ideas from our own experience, from guidebooks and traveler forums, from both English and Italian websites, to insure you enjoy this enchanting part of Italy. Below are suggestions for <b>Crowd Timing, </b><b> How to Travel, </b><b>Hiking, </b><b>Activities, </b><b>Where to Stay,</b><b> When to Go, When Not to Go, and More Info. </b>We hope they help you. Happy Trails.<br />
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">New Article:</u> <b><span style="color: #990000;">With 103 Cinque Terre FAQ's</span> Link: <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2018/02/every-answer-cinque-terre-travel-guide.html" target="_blank">Every Answer You Need for Your Cinque Terre Trip</a></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HIYwa6MEEoG-9q2B59EgormpBvTUFgiBR4bdRT4RlSFoaCikaBQsfRXhcRXZ82V726c0mAxMkivnUNw1QAHJYAPkFrVISWO84SYHHsIAoQWMT6a-F_PNI2tNY2zuhkqCBz6rmEkzP0go/s1600/Darren+%2526+Brad_Vernazza.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Vernazza, Cinque Terre Ferry Boat Arrival " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9HIYwa6MEEoG-9q2B59EgormpBvTUFgiBR4bdRT4RlSFoaCikaBQsfRXhcRXZ82V726c0mAxMkivnUNw1QAHJYAPkFrVISWO84SYHHsIAoQWMT6a-F_PNI2tNY2zuhkqCBz6rmEkzP0go/s400/Darren+%2526+Brad_Vernazza.jpg" title="Vernazza, Cinque Terre Ferry Boat Arrival" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Vernazza, Cinque Terre Ferry Boat Arrival CC By Darren & Brad</span></span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: left;"> </span></td></tr>
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<b><u>1. Get Up Early / Stay Out Late.</u></b> Adjusting your day's schedule will greatly help you avoid crowds, keep you cooler, and the angled light will enhance your photos. The surge of short-term visitors on the trains and in the village centers is greatest from about 10 am to 4 pm. Schedule and route your activities to accommodate. Visit one of the lesser crowded CT towns in the middle of the day - Corniglia or Riomaggiore, or nearby Portovenere, Levanto, or La Spezia. Start your hike in the fresh morning, and stop for a picnic or up-slope restaurant lunch for midday. Enjoy the beach or rent a kayak when the sun is high.<br />
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<b><u>2. Take the Boat.</u></b> The ferry boats are a great way to see the Ligurian coast and reach the villages. While they are very popular, they are not as crowded as the trains (especially true of the 1st boat of the day). A full day ticket (with stopovers allowed) is about 33 Euro and they operate to the CT from La Spezia, Lerici, Portovenere, and Levanto. There are also excursions from the Portofino and Viareggio areas. See our <b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/p/history.html" target="_blank">Ferry / Getting Around Page</a> </b>for links to all our articles with complete schedules and prices. Ferries can sometimes be canceled due to wind & waves, but that's unusual in the high season.<br />
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<b style="text-decoration: underline;">3. Avoid Holidays.</b> Holidays and weekends, especially in good weather, produce more visitors. If the holiday flanks a weekend, it can have an <u>additive</u> effect. The days to consider avoiding are Easter Sunday <u>and</u> Easter Monday (in 2020 that's April 12 & 13), April 25 (Liberation Day), May 1 (Labor Day), June 2 (Republic Day), August 15 (<i>Ferragosto</i>).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqbkhZ_wSHS3EVjc9kr1ZGxe9RGfffADL-Bx24x8VuLfnYJdpma8etqWJWHJJ1y4wrcIzMDJn4OuST5og4uuWWbAxNimJ0bXS50NRRpIClssP7kZYpkKrauk3R5PtQO2OfNkyiAuag6ihP/s1600/Riomaggiore_Noack+%2528copy%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre 1890 August Alfred Noack" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqbkhZ_wSHS3EVjc9kr1ZGxe9RGfffADL-Bx24x8VuLfnYJdpma8etqWJWHJJ1y4wrcIzMDJn4OuST5og4uuWWbAxNimJ0bXS50NRRpIClssP7kZYpkKrauk3R5PtQO2OfNkyiAuag6ihP/s320/Riomaggiore_Noack+%2528copy%2529.jpg" title="Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre 1890 August Alfred Noack" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre 1890 August Alfred Noack</td></tr>
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<b style="text-decoration: underline;">4. Take a Bus or a Minibus</b><b style="text-decoration: underline;"> </b>If you are hiking, you can reach good trails by taking a bus from La Spezia to Campiglia, Colle di Telegrafo, Biassa, Monesteroli or Riomaggiore Bivio to start a hike on several trails including the AVG-1 (<i>Sentiero Rosso</i>) toward Portovenere or into the Cinque Terre Park and down to the villages.<br />
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If you are already in or near one of the villages you can use the <a href="http://www.atcesercizio.it/index.php/en/tickets-and-regulations/cinque-terre-en" target="_blank"><b>CT Park minibuses</b></a> to start a hike further uphill or reach other attractions -for example Riomaggiore to Telegrafo on the Red Trail. Plan ahead as some minibuses are infrequent and the schedule varies by season: <b><a href="http://www.atcesercizio.it/cinqueterre.pdf" target="_blank">CT Park Minibus Schedules</a></b>. The routes are:<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;"><u><b>Riomaggiore</b></u> – Monesteroli</span><br /><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;"><u><b>Manarola</b></u> – Groppo – Volastra</span><br /><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;"><u><b>Vernazza</b></u> – Santuario Reggio – Drignana</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;"><b><u>Vernazza</u></b> – Fornacchi – S. Bernardino </span><br /><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;"><b><u>Monterosso</u></b> – Cabana </span></span><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;">–</span><span style="line-height: 22.8571px;"> Vettora</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 22.8571px;">Transfers between the Riomaggiore minibus, the Manarola minibus and Bus 29 from La Spezia are also possible - see the Route Finder. </span><br />
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On the ATC bus company <a href="http://www.atcesercizio.it/index.php/en/" target="_blank"><b>ATC Website (EN)</b></a> you'll find system wide schedules, an interactive map, and a Route Finder. The regular buses appear as a solid blue line, the CT minibuses as a dotted blue. <a href="http://www.atcesercizio.it/cinqueterre.pdf" target="_blank"><b>CT Park Minibus Schedules</b></a> (<i>Feriale</i> is Mon-Sat. (Mon-Fri if grayed). <i>Festivi</i> is Sun. & Holidays.) The La Spezia - Campiglia is bus 20 , the La Spezia - Biassa or <i>Colle Telegrafo</i> is bus 19, La Spezia to Bivio Riomaggiore is bus 19 or 29.<br />
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">5. Take a Taxi</u> Sure the train is quick and cheap, but you're on vacation and the fares are thinkable, especially for a group. The published taxi fare from La Spezia to Riomaggiore is 35E, to Manarola 40E, to Vernazza & Corniglia 70E, to Monterosso 80E. There may be a small charge for baggage and extra people, but drivers don't expect a tip. Link: <b><a href="http://www.radiotaxilaspezia.it/index.html" target="_blank">La Spezia Radio Taxi</a> </b>(prices are under <i>Tariffe</i>).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_lm-3I0IRZiWDalC0Hg2fhaUedoQHHGlfvk-wH45ImuwDrR5dF1RXnYZeq7nlsCv4af0QQ8SHAY54jakw9K3yngZNgRn-9vqgZQ29QPB_LJ0qA065RdLPsUsPqxr9XqjPhznKwDbv56C/s1600/IMG_0322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Cinque Terre coast: Portovenere Peninsula, Palmaria & Tino Islands." border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_lm-3I0IRZiWDalC0Hg2fhaUedoQHHGlfvk-wH45ImuwDrR5dF1RXnYZeq7nlsCv4af0QQ8SHAY54jakw9K3yngZNgRn-9vqgZQ29QPB_LJ0qA065RdLPsUsPqxr9XqjPhznKwDbv56C/s400/IMG_0322.JPG" title="Cinque Terre coast: Portovenere Peninsula, Palmaria & Tino Islands." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Portovenere Peninsula, Palmaria & Tino Islands. St. Peter's Church is visible.<br />
We took this on the <i>Sentiero Rosso</i> (AVG-1) 25 minutes south of Campiglia.</td></tr>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></u><u style="font-weight: bold;">6. Don't Hike the Popular Trails.</u> The <i>Sentiero Azzurro</i> (and the <i>Via d'Amore</i> when it reopens) are very often conga-line crowded - even though the number of hikers is now limited at peak times on some sections. However, most of the many, many trails in the Cinque Terre Park have very few hikers and they are free! Free and beautiful, although most are not easy. A trail which is of moderate difficulty and free is one of the most scenic trails in all of Italy, the <i>Sentiero Rosso</i> ( a/k/a the AVG <i><u>A</u>lta <u>V</u>ia del <u>G</u>olfo</i> or Trail 1 - see our photo). Read these travelers' trip reports about good hikes:<br />
<b><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187817-i997-k8380242-Trip_Report-Cinque_Terre_Italian_Riviera_Liguria.html" target="_blank">Mrs. Boffin's Visit</a> & <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187817-i997-k9459457-Trip_Report_Cinque_Terre_September_2015-Cinque_Terre_Italian_Riviera_Liguria.html" target="_blank">Justine28's Visit</a></b><br />
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Some routes to consider: <u>Levanto to Monterosso</u> (3 hours), <u>Campiglia (or Telegraph) to Portovenere</u> on the AVG-1 (2 to 3.5 hours), <u>Corniglia to Manarola via Volastra</u> (Trail 7a to 6d to 6) (2 hours). You can see more on this map which is widely on sale in the CT.<br />
<b>Link:</b> <b><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BwrO8cDtfrshd1BvNl9vcE9BWUU/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">A Used Good Cinque Terre Hiking Map 5MB</a></b><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Tips 7-16. Continued Below</span></u></b><br />
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<b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Where to Stay to See Cinque Terre? Which Village?</u></span></b></h3>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Book</span><b style="color: black; font-size: medium;"> </b><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">as <b>early</b> as you can - the CT is</span><b style="color: black; font-size: medium;"> very popular.</b><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">We advise reserving four months ahead. We use and recommend</span><b style="font-family: inherit;"> Booking.com </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">because they have an excellent selection of hotels with</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration-line: underline;">VERIFIED REVIEWS!</span></span><br />
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<ins class="bookingaff" data-aid="1186510" data-dest_id="1754" data-dest_type="region" data-height="236" data-prod="nsb" data-target_aid="354603" data-width="222"><a href="https://www.booking.com/?aid=354603">Booking.com</a></ins><b><br /></b><b style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Monterosso</span></u></b><b style="font-size: large;"> </b><span style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">The largest little town with a resort feel & the most restaurants and hotels. The only real beach in CT, some parking & the best train connections. There's an old town and a new section and it's fairly level. The full town name is Monterosso al Mare. </span></b></span></b></b></span></b><b style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.booking.com/city/it/monterosso-al-mare.html?aid=354603" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Link to: Booking.com - Monterosso</a></b></span></b></b></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/25818755@N08/galleries/72157678512828674/" target="_blank">What's It Like? - Our Monterosso Photo Gallery Link</a></b></b></span></b></b></span></b></span></b></b></span></b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Vernazza CC by Byscuit</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><b style="font-weight: bold;"><u><span style="font-size: large;">Vernazza</span></u><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></b><b style="font-size: large;"> </b>The p<span style="font-weight: normal;">rettiest, most celebrated town with the most visitors. You really should see it. Photographers love this town especially at sunset as the nearby hills provide stunning views. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b><a href="http://www.booking.com/city/it/vernazza.html?aid=354603" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Link to: Booking.com - Vernazza</a> </b></b></span></b></b></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/25818755@N08/galleries/72157680109776550/" target="_blank">What's It Like? - Our Vernazza Photo Gallery Link</a></b></b></span></b></b></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Corniglia</u></b></span> Sitting prettily on a promontory high above the sea with an historic church. It's the least crowded. It's a climb from the train and the boat doesn't stop here, but it's still very romantic and the views are the best.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.booking.com/city/it/corniglia.html?aid=354603" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Link to: Booking.com - Corniglia</b></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/25818755@N08/galleries/72157678602050104/" target="_blank">What's It Like? - Our Corniglia Photo Gallery LinkCorniglia</a></b></span></b></b></span></b></b></span></b></b></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Manarola</u></b></span> The second most popular to explore, it's very photogenic & colorful. Approached from the sea, the town seems balanced on a cliff. Below there's a tiny harbor with quaint fishing boats and the famous terraces loom nearby.<b> </b></span><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.booking.com/city/it/manarola.html?aid=354603" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank"><b>Link to: Booking.com- Manarola</b></a></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><b style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/25818755@N08/galleries/72157680340835700/" target="_blank">What's It Like - Our Manarola Photo Gallery</a></span></b></b></span></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Riomaggiore CC by Nick Grosoli</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Riomaggiore</span></u></b> Closest to La Spezia & Portovenere, it's very characteristic. Colorful stacked homes line the opening in the cliff and there's another wee harbor. Kayak rentals and small boat tours available here. </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.booking.com/city/it/riomaggiore.html?aid=354603" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Link to: Booking.com - Riomaggiore</a> </b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/25818755@N08/galleries/72157679389382002/" target="_blank">What's It Like? - Our Riomaggiore Photo Gallery Link</a></b> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u style="font-weight: bold;">Cinque Terre</u> </span><b>(Entire Area) </b> <b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.booking.com/region/it/lecinqueterre.html?aid=354603" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Link to: Booking.com - Cinque Terre</a> </b><b style="font-family: inherit;"> or </b><b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-6386226-10859031-1449079035000?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homeaway.com%2Fvacation-rentals%2Fitaly%2Fcinque-terre%2Fr57504" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Link to: HomeAway - CinqueTerre</a></b></div>
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Click <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kCVa0eEqcXlU&usp=sharing" target="_blank"><b>Liguria / Cinque Terre / Portofino Map</b></a> to see the Cinque Terre towns & other Base towns.</div>
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<u><b style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;">Liguria Hotel Guide </b><b style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;">& City Selector.</b></u><br />
Choose a pretty Ligurian town nearby as an affordable base to see Cinque Terre and other famous towns. We describe all the Pluses & Minuses.<br />
<b>Link: <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/02/hotel-recommendations-portovenere.html" target="_blank">Part 1: Cinque Terre South - Gulf of the Poets</a></b><br />
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<b>Link: <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/10/liguria-hotel-guide-city-selector-Part-1.html" target="_blank">Part 2: Cinque Terre North to Portofino</a></b><br />
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<b>Link: </b><b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/10/liguria-hotel-guide-city-selector-part.html" target="_blank">Part 3: Towns on the Portofino Peninsula</a> </b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxy1vSfa2jsDIEMYOXCXG0LouvRIas6cBio1-agB89nbcwU4TMsJ7OhvNhKmkZ7C0697VfDEDjd0FhfOP3SULYCGhhBd_JE8MsfA0nz_ylrGhIJ87UB5oQbCfJxGRC1-857DjbC-M6Tl1E/s1600/2016-05-27+Lucca+CT+%252833%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Corniglia from Volastra in Cinque Terre park" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxy1vSfa2jsDIEMYOXCXG0LouvRIas6cBio1-agB89nbcwU4TMsJ7OhvNhKmkZ7C0697VfDEDjd0FhfOP3SULYCGhhBd_JE8MsfA0nz_ylrGhIJ87UB5oQbCfJxGRC1-857DjbC-M6Tl1E/s400/2016-05-27+Lucca+CT+%252833%2529.JPG" title="Corniglia from Volastra in Cinque Terre park" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corniglia & trail, photo from Volastra on trail 6d in May.</td></tr>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">7. Park Above and Hike to a Village</u> You should not drive down to the Cinque Terre villages themselves both because the roads are terrifying, and because there's no parking (the exception for the informed & judicious is Monterosso). However, the Cinque Terre Park is large and you can easily find places to park along the roads higher on the hills. You can use one of the many trails to hike down to a village. If you plan well, you can use a CT Park minibus to take you one or both ways. See <b><u>Take A Bus</u></b> above.<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b><b style="text-decoration: underline;">8. Rent a Mountain Bike </b>You can rent a mountain bike from the Cinque Terre National Park at Montenero Sanctuary on the hill above Riomaggiore. The MTB network of trails roughly follows the AVG-1 (Sentiero Rosso) and the views will reward your effort. The terrain varies in difficulty from easy to challenging, but no one is watching if you walk the bike part way. A day rental is about four euros with the Cinque Terre card.<br />
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<b><u>9. Go Kayaking or Boating</u></b> If the water's calm and warm, rent a kayak and/or snorkel gear at the only authorized dive center, the <u><a href="http://www.5terrediving.it/?l=english&o=home" target="_blank"><b>5 Terre Diving</b></a></u> in Riomaggiore. Also known as <u>Coop Sub 5 Terre</u>, the experienced operators organize dives, group kayak trips for those who wish, and also rent kayaks. There are other kayak and boat rentals along the coast, such as <a href="http://www.nordest-vernazza.it/index_eng.htm" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Nordest</a> in Vernazza or <b><a href="http://www.cinqueterredalmare.com/home.html" target="_blank">Cinque Terre dal Mare (By Sea)</a> </b>in Riomaggiore, so ask locally as well. It's just a 30-45 minute paddle between each village within the CT - and it's really beautiful. It's not a Marine Protected Area for nothing.<br />
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<u><b>10. Do Stay in a Cinque Terre village.</b></u> Since the day trip visitors are concentrated in mid-day, staying in a village gives a special feeling to the night and mornings, and the ability to adjust the timing of your activities. Also, not all the villages are equally crowded. Monterosso is the largest with the most hotels and a resort feel, and can handle the most visitors with the least stress. Corniglia is visited the least because it is not at sea level. Riomaggiore gets a good share of visitors but pretty Manarola gets more. The extravagant charm of Vernazza makes it the most visited. Links: <b><a href="http://www.booking.com/region/it/lecinqueterre.html?aid=354603" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Booking.com Cinque Terre</a> <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-6386226-10859031-1449079035000?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homeaway.com%2Fvacation-rentals%2Fitaly%2Fcinque-terre%2Fr57504" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HomeAway(Cinque Terre)</a>.</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWMLV7foMg2VnsFS3DsMva5kZTBsN-4KRFWA7AqxsFpkGR9O-KdN0P-HX-gWUMjMGInb5TIQNr1H2RQQ2aw6lY8jRQV68e-Cu2hkzbsmMq6UD4zDlpUQCX6CDI4pbEpfd0zakU_vbA9Hc/s1600/Corniglia_Noack+%2528copy%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Corniglia in Cinque Terre 1890 August Alfred Noack" border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWMLV7foMg2VnsFS3DsMva5kZTBsN-4KRFWA7AqxsFpkGR9O-KdN0P-HX-gWUMjMGInb5TIQNr1H2RQQ2aw6lY8jRQV68e-Cu2hkzbsmMq6UD4zDlpUQCX6CDI4pbEpfd0zakU_vbA9Hc/s320/Corniglia_Noack+%2528copy%2529.jpg" title="Corniglia in Cinque Terre 1890 August Alfred Noack" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corniglia in Cinque Terre circa 1890. August Alfred Noack</td></tr>
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<b><u>11. Don't Stay in a Cinque Terre village</u></b>. Use a nearby town such as Levanto as a base and take the train or boat or hike into the Cinque Terre. You'll be able to enjoy the attractions of another pretty Ligurian town, experience a less crowded town, and there's a very good chance you'll spend less. We have series of three articles to help you decide which town is best for you. <span style="color: #990000;"><b>Your click will support our efforts to help travelers like you.</b></span><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/02/hotel-recommendations-portovenere.html" target="_blank">Part 1 Liguria Hotel Guide & City Selector</a> </b>Gulf of La Spezia -<b> </b>Lerici Portovenere La Spezia. South of Cinque Terre.<br />
<b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/10/liguria-hotel-guide-city-selector-Part-1.html" target="_blank">Part 2 Liguria Hotel Guide & City Selector</a> </b>Levanto, Bonassola, Moneglia, Sestri Levante, Lavagna, Chiavari. North of Cinque Terre.<br />
<b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/10/liguria-hotel-guide-city-selector-part.html" target="_blank">Part 3 Liguria Hotel Guide & City Selector</a> </b><br />
Rapallo, Santa Margherita, Portofino, Camogli, Recco. Visit both the CT & Portofino.<br />
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">12. Stay in the Cinque Terre Park.</u> Stay in accommodations within the Cinque Terre Park but not in one of the five villages. Especially if you're hiking, using the CT minibuses, or driving, these up-slope alternatives might be just what you need. You can still get to the five villages and trails but these facilities tend to be quieter, greener, have parking, and be a better value. Some are rural, some in little communities like <u>Volastra</u> or <u>Groppo</u> (both on bus line to/from Manarola), or <u>San Bernardino</u> (bus to/from Corniglia). To locate accommodations a bit inland, use these links <b><a href="http://www.booking.com/region/it/lecinqueterre.html?aid=354603" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Booking.com Cinque Terre</a> </b>or <b><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-6386226-10859031-1449079035000?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homeaway.com%2Fvacation-rentals%2Fitaly%2Fcinque-terre%2Fr57504" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HomeAway(Cinque Terre)</a> </b>and click on the map words 'Show Map' and<b> </b>then<b> </b>keep magnifying (+) the map 6 or 7 times<b>. </b>Most hotels, B&Bs, and other listing will describe access between their facility and the villages.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Where the Heck are These Places?</b></span><br />
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Our <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kCVa0eEqcXlU&usp=sharing" target="_blank"><b>Liguria / Cinque Terre Map</b></a> showing the all the cities & towns in and around the Cinque Terre.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNNGQN69b1rCEjP6oT7kqXI-otljUL93M6DBo79HdN0bpg1EPv6d8QZcSyevmQ8kveTsVugxr09Wh9sE-9OUJVQddsJQdrhEqfxyOFhyWfAjROcuJjWsUbKLTGqhTo6EVTwN1RIqaxTJ3v/s1600/Kylie+%2526+Rob+%2528and+Helen%2529+Vernazza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Crowded Vernazza Train Station, Cinque Terre, Italy" border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNNGQN69b1rCEjP6oT7kqXI-otljUL93M6DBo79HdN0bpg1EPv6d8QZcSyevmQ8kveTsVugxr09Wh9sE-9OUJVQddsJQdrhEqfxyOFhyWfAjROcuJjWsUbKLTGqhTo6EVTwN1RIqaxTJ3v/s400/Kylie+%2526+Rob+%2528and+Helen%2529+Vernazza.jpg" title="Crowded Vernazza Train Station, Cinque Terre, Italy" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From 2016, the 'Cinque Terre Express' has meant somewhat less crowding.<br />
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Vernazza Train Station. CC By Kylie & Rob (and Helen)</div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">13. Check the Cruise Line Schedules</u> Large cruise ships dock in La Spezia with more than 650,000 passengers a year. More than a few of these nice folks become day visitors to the villages. Because they have limited time, the 'cruisers' impact is mostly in mid-day on the trains, the towns' main thoroughfares, and the easier trails. They have little impact on the hilly trails and the ferry boats. It is possible to check the cruise ship docking schedules against your proposed dates.<br />
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However, <b><span style="color: #38761d;">don't rely too much on cruise info</span></b> - the schedules are often <u>not</u> comprehensive or up to date and they change during the season. Also, there are also <u><b>many other sources of group tours</b></u>, including land bus tours, day tours from Florence and Rome, and excursions from cruise ships in Livorno, all of which use the trains from La Spezia for the final leg.<br />
<b>Links: </b><b><a href="https://crocierelaspezia.wordpress.com/home/calendari-sbarchi-alla-spezia/" target="_blank">Crociere La Spezia</a></b> and <a href="http://ports.cruisett.com/schedule/Italy/1083-La_Spezia/June_2018/" target="_blank"><b>La Spezia Cruises (Cruisett)</b></a><b>.</b><br />
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<b><u>14. Visit during the off-season.</u></b> The Cinque Terre can be enjoyable for hiking and exploring in good weather all year. However, for ordinary travelers, we only recommend April & October as 'off-season' visits. See <b><u>When To Go</u></b> below for our advice by month.<br />
If you do go in deep off-season, there are downsides to evaluate.<br />
<u>Consider:</u><br />
--Fall and winter rain storms can be quite windy, and last several days.<br />
--The trails can stay wet and slippery for extended periods and the views are obscured.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcaYcqEBT42Hx6t-2vUnuFqnJ4cO5slOUTGnDSeSEvyBB4REmoEHWG1LuSg6J8CuU3OipaGdZ5-VHztxB9kcD93aurR3UO9Qn1ySz6M8_vf2plNBf6oR9LMN4HkvOrCYVvJZRdQtj87EAi/s1600/17+Nov+2012+Palmaria+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Portovenere Liguria on the Gulf of La Spezia" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcaYcqEBT42Hx6t-2vUnuFqnJ4cO5slOUTGnDSeSEvyBB4REmoEHWG1LuSg6J8CuU3OipaGdZ5-VHztxB9kcD93aurR3UO9Qn1ySz6M8_vf2plNBf6oR9LMN4HkvOrCYVvJZRdQtj87EAi/s400/17+Nov+2012+Palmaria+003.JPG" title="Portovenere Liguria on the Gulf of La Spezia" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Historic Portovenere on the Gulf of La Spezia</td></tr>
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--The ferries will not be running from the 1st weekend of November to late March.<br />
--Many businesses, hotels, and restaurants close off-season. The villages will feel and be empty.<br />
--The buildings are old; accommodations that are open may be chilly when the weather's cold.<br />
--The latitude is 44 degrees - like Minneapolis, MN or Hobart, TAS. so the nights are long. On Dec. 25, that's less than 9 hours of daylight.<br />
<u>Ergo, if you do go in deep off-season:</u><br />
--Weather is not predictable until a week ahead, so reserve only a few days in advance.<br />
--Have alternate plans ready and have notes on hotels or B&Bs suitable for last minute plans.<br />
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">15. Visit other Ligurian towns instead</u> Along the Ligurian Levante coast (south of Genoa) there are other enchanting towns that have a lot in common with the Cinque Terre and are well worth a stay or a visit. You'll see Ligurian architecture, landscapes, and historical sites that are very characteristic, and enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance. We recommend: <u>Portovenere</u>, <u>Lerici</u>, and <u>Tellaro</u> on the Gulf of La Spezia; <u>Moneglia</u> and <u>Sestri Levante</u> on the Gulf of Tigullio north of the CT and south of Portofino; and <u>Camogli</u> on the Gulf of Paradise. Camogli is also famous for its fish festival, and it makes a good base for seeing the Portofino Peninsula which lies to its south. See the Hotel & City Guide Links above and this Link: <b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kCVa0eEqcXlU&usp=sharing" target="_blank">Liguria / Cinque Terre Map</a>.</b><br />
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<b><u>16. When To Go When Not To Go What's the Best Month To Go?</u></b><br />
The Cinque Terre are about nature and hiking, seascapes and landscapes, the people and their historic villages & terraced vineyards. The weather varies from year to year, of course, but we hope our opinions, based on several decades in the area, will help you plan.<br />
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<b>January, February </b> Hiking can be a pleasure in good weather, but, sorry to say, no other reason to go.<br />
<b>March</b> Enjoyable in good weather, but rainy periods fairly likely. Little greenery, sleepy towns, ferry only at month's end.<br />
<b>April</b> In the first half the plants are starting and the weather mostly pleasant, perhaps a bit chilly. In the second half trees blossom and flowers appear, temperatures are good, rain less likely. Crowds are usually modest.<br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><b>We recommend visiting between April 20 & June 10. Learn More</b>:</span> <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2013/04/spring-weather-in-liguria.html" target="_blank"><b>Spring Weather & Holidays in Liguria</b></a><br />
<b>May</b> Heaven on earth. Mediterranean landscapes exploding with green. Sea still cool, any rain usually short-lived, heat unlikely, crowds are now a factor.<br />
<b>June</b> Land and sea are wonderful, not usually hot. Swimming begins to be possible. Crowds are frequent. Vacation season truly begins mid-month and then crowding is unavoidable.<br />
<b>July, August </b> Warm to hot, sometimes very hot. Very crowded most days. A good stay requires being adaptable to the weather and crowding. Hiking best in early morning for most folks on most days.<br />
<b>September </b>Good weather, heat possible early in the month. Lively and enjoyable but usually crowded including lots of day trippers from cruise ships. Grape harvest usually in 1st half of month.<br />
<b>October </b>First half of month usually has good weather. Autumn colors develop during the month. Chance of long rain storms. Ferry running, but weather dependent. Less crowded, but no shortage of mid-day visitors from cruise ships in the town centers.<br />
<b>November </b>Hiking and exploring in good weather when autumn colors enhance the beauty. Rain and clouds likely. No ferry. Reduced train service. Not at all lively.<br />
<b>December </b>Hiking only in good weather. Little to do & little daylight.Villages are hibernating except for a few Christmas festivities & decorations.<br />
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<span style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-size: large; line-height: normal;"><b>Hiring A Car?</b></span></span><span style="color: #990000;"> </span><br />
<b style="color: #990000;">Story Links: <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/11/where-to-rent-car-from-cinque-terre-la.html" target="_blank">Where to Rent a Car from Cinque Terre - La Spezia, Genoa, or Pisa?</a></b><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"> </span><b style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/12/car-rental-company-reviews-for-italy.html" target="_blank">Independent Car Rental Reviews for Italy</a></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #990000;"> <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/12/car-rental-in-italy-pick-it-up-right.html" target="_blank">Car Rental Tips for Italy - Pick It Up Right</a> </span></b><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">We can recommend the car hire broker Auto Europe where you can compare companies, get zero deductible insurance if needed, cancel easily, and have 24/7 English customer service. If you will be renting a car, please consider helping us by using the links below (which do not affect the prices offered). See About Us & Disclosures below.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=apathtolunch" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">AutoEurope(US)</a><b> </b> <b><a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/?aff=apathtolunch" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Auto Europe(UK)</a> </b></span></div>
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<b style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://clkuk.tradedoubler.com/click?p=283617&a=2984421&g=24031682" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Avis Website (English)</a> </b><b><a href="https://clk.tradedoubler.com/click?p=283780&a=2984421&g=24037324" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Budget Rent A Car (English)</a></b><b style="text-align: center;"> </b><br />
<b style="text-align: center;"> </b><span style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"> </span><span style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">_________________________________________</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">About Us & Disclosure</span></b><br />
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We are Martha and Mike from Boston- recently retired photo editors who enjoy travel, food, and helping people. We have visited Italy for three decades, and we live in Liguria part-time. We have no connection to the car rental or hotel industries, and we receive no payments or free stuff for our writing or opinions.<br />
As is internet convention, we receive the standard commission for clicks on many of the commercial links that result in a purchase. Your clicks on these links are really appreciated.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Errors & Omissions</u></b></span><br />
Bad links, closed restaurants, wrong info, etc. Help us be perfect - there's a Reporting Box at the bottom of the page.<br />
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<b><u>What's the best guidebook for Cinque Terre?</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>First, buy your Cinque Terre guidebook before you arrive as you won't easily find them in Italy. For a guidebook dedicated to Cinque Terre, the best by far is <b><a href="https://amzn.to/2HjSKfw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pocket Cinque Terre Rick Steves</a></b><br />
<a href="https://amzn.to/2HjSKfw"><b>(Amazon US)</b></a> <b><a href="https://amzn.to/2Cl7tnj" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a> <a href="https://amzn.to/2HhVnj7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Kindle UK)</a>.</b> Most all of the Pocket Cinque Terre info is also included in <b>Italy Rick Steves </b><b>2020</b><b> <a href="https://amzn.to/3479Ipe" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line: underline;" target="_blank">(Amazon US)</a> <a href="https://amzn.to/356jDwx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Amazon UK)</a></b><b> </b>which is Amazon’s best selling Italy guidebook.<br />
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For advice and reviews on guidebooks for Liguria, Florence, Rome, Venice & more, read our article:<br />
<a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2019/03/best-italy-guidebooks-2019-reviewed.html" target="_blank"><b>All the Best Italy Guidebooks Reviewed</b></a><br />
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<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/109874875615046328762?rel=author"></a>
*<i>dolce far niente</i>: Literally 'sweet doing nothing', i.e. delicious idleness.<br />
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Photos with the credit 'CC BY' are used via a Creative Commons copyright license. They are not altered, and can be found on <a href="https://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank"><b>Flickr</b></a>.<br />
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Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-11884977825756411082016-01-19T14:40:00.000-05:002016-06-14T14:26:09.041-04:00Virtuous Reality - Teaching Religion 800 Years Ago.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Chiaravalle Abbey, Fidenza Duomo, Vigoleno Castle & Lunch!</h2>
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Visit the Attractions In & Around Fidenza - Fidenza Cathedral, Chiaravalle, Vigoleno Castle.</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8UxL2UY_Q40AwvqWDU4FkN3Z0qdMXRLFonRRaFtyOOq0Er5mKbmBBbyMm5hiKW0hPxLadtU2NhlzDNCtXHsJAv759qcWChajbKIUMtqW5Z7qFulmyC43P-5XH6BLkGUJp6oSCeV5-5N8O/s1600/DSCF3629a-vert402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Column Capital on Central Portal to Fidenza Cathedral Duomo." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8UxL2UY_Q40AwvqWDU4FkN3Z0qdMXRLFonRRaFtyOOq0Er5mKbmBBbyMm5hiKW0hPxLadtU2NhlzDNCtXHsJAv759qcWChajbKIUMtqW5Z7qFulmyC43P-5XH6BLkGUJp6oSCeV5-5N8O/s1600/DSCF3629a-vert402.jpg" title="Column Capital on Central Portal to Fidenza Cathedral Duomo."></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A Fidenza Duomo </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Capital: Elizabeth, Two Virgins of the Temple, the High Priest. </span></td></tr>
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We really had no good reason to leave Lunigiana - just sheer wanderlust. But one clear October day, we found ourselves driving over the Apennine Alps from Tuscany into Parma Province hoping to perpetuate our masquerade as travel writers. You can help our cause by reading along as we see some wonderful buildings, some jaw-dropping art, and enjoy a great lunch. This article visits:<br>
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<b><u>Chiaravalle della Colomba</u></b> A Cistercian Monastery founded by St. Bernard himself in 1135 AD. The large church is Romanesque-Gothic with a notable cloister.<br>
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<b><u>Fidenza</u></b> Historic town on the Roman Via Emilia and the medieval Via Francigena. The best attraction is an important formative Cathedral with narrative statuary from the 1100's.<br>
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</div><a href="https://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/01/virtuous-reality-teaching-religion-800.html#more">Read more »</a>Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8467255993022904201.post-85157783398421787802015-12-17T14:05:00.005-05:002024-02-02T13:01:32.072-05:00Where to Rent a Car in Genoa, Savona, or Portofino in 2024?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Complete Info for the Best Car Rental in Savona & Genoa (<i>Genova</i>).</h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Car Hire Office Locations & Hours with Savona & Genoa Car Rental <u>Maps</u>.</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Advice for Car Rental in Genoa, Genoa Airport, Savona, Rapallo, Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure.</h4>
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This guide makes it easy to rent a car when you arrive by train or cruise ship in Genoa or Savona. We show the way to the car hire offices from Genoa's Piazza Principe train station or Brignole train station. All the information is <b>below</b> or on our <b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kDQ8y9YoGPUU&usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Genoa Car Rental Map</a> or <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kGsu68leSrR0&usp=sharing" target="_blank">Savona Car Rental Map</a>.</b><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b>Sections Below:</b></span><b> </b><b>Genoa Rental</b><br />
<b> Car Rental Tips</b><b> </b><br />
<b> Savona Rental</b><br />
<b> Rapallo Portofino Rental </b><br />
<b> More Info</b><br />
<b> Other Rental Locations</b><br />
<b> About Us & Disclosure </b> </div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Car Rental Tip</b></span>_________________</span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: center;">_____________________________________________</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b>Renting A Car in Italy. </b>If you drive in urban areas at home, you can drive in Italy. Stick to well known rental companies. Rental prices are tricky - low prices can lead to add-ons . We have two articles to help:</span><span style="color: #990000;"> </span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"> </span><b style="color: #990000;">Link:</b><span style="color: #990000;"> </span><b style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/12/car-rental-company-reviews-for-italy.html" target="_blank">Independent Car Rental Reviews for Italy</a></b><br />
<b style="color: #990000;">Link:</b><span style="color: #990000;"> </span><b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2016/06/independent-car-rental-price.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Independent Car Rental Price Comparisons for Italy</a></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000;"> Link: <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/12/car-rental-in-italy-pick-it-up-right.html" target="_blank">Car Rental Tips for Italy - Pick It Up Right</a> </span></b></div>
<span style="color: #990000;">We also recommend the reputable car hire brokers Auto Europe and its subsidiary, Kemwel Discount Rentals. They allow you to compare companies, get zero deductible insurance if needed, cancel easily, and have 24/7 English customer service. If you will be renting a car, please consider our links below (which do not affect the prices offered). See <b>About Us & Disclosure</b> below.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=apathtolunch" rel="nofollow" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">AutoEurope(USA)</a><b> </b> <b><a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/?aff=apathtolunch" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Auto Europe(UK)</a> </b></span><b><a href="http://www.kemwel.com/aff/A2B3C4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kemwel Discount Rentals</a></b><b style="text-align: center;"> </b><br /><br /></div>
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<a href="https://www.exchangeratewidget.com/" style="color: white; text-decoration: none;">Currency Converter</a></div>
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<u style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Genoa City</span></b></u></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis01AIj46yn1Aq4wrgs4TFeWQnPTLbOgeSSAls0fwmgJn9_viJIeL5gY6wWhfq0cJbKCmpqtepiDmQQHztxbH6olKTDP2QOlTgxL7EkhrtXgz7FT6NWWsbBwIkgMyyTvN9PkISypYVmQzr/s1600/Sean_Perry_NS_Consolazione.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Our Lady of Consolation, Genoa, Liguria" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis01AIj46yn1Aq4wrgs4TFeWQnPTLbOgeSSAls0fwmgJn9_viJIeL5gY6wWhfq0cJbKCmpqtepiDmQQHztxbH6olKTDP2QOlTgxL7EkhrtXgz7FT6NWWsbBwIkgMyyTvN9PkISypYVmQzr/s400/Sean_Perry_NS_Consolazione.jpg" title="Our Lady of Consolation, Genoa, Liguria" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Lady of Consolation, Genoa. CC by Sean Perry </td></tr>
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Arriving at the Cruise Port or to Piazza Principe train station in Genoa, you'll probably want a taxi to reach the car rental offices. From Genova Brignole train station, Europcar, Hertz, and Maggiore are a 10-20 minute walk. We list estimated walking times and taxi fares on the <b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kDQ8y9YoGPUU&usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Genoa Car Rental Map</a>.</b><br />
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<b><u>Europcar Genoa City</u></b> <b>Via G.Casaregis 42/1 </b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kDQ8y9YoGPUU&usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Genoa Car Rental Map</b></a><br />
Mon-Fri 08:00-12:00 / 14:30-18:30 Sat 08:00-12:00 Sun. Closed<br />
<b><a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=F38D7E29" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Check for Europcar at AUTOEUROPE</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.kemwel.com/aff/A2B3C4" target="_blank">Check for Europcar at KEMWEL</a></b><br />
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<span itemprop="addressLocality"></span><span itemprop="addressLocality" style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>Hertz Genoa Cit</u>y</b> <b>Via Ruspoli 1/3 R</b> </span><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kDQ8y9YoGPUU&usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Genoa Car Rental Map</a></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
Mon-Fri 0830-1900 Sat 0830-1230 Sun. Closed<br />
<b><u>Hertz at IKEA</u> Luigi Perini 5</b> <br />
Hours: 24/7<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=F38D7E29" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Check for Hertz at AUTOEUROPE</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.kemwel.com/aff/A2B3C4" target="_blank">Check for Hertz at KEMWEL</a></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><b><u>Maggiore Genoa City</u> C.so Sardegna 275r </b><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kDQ8y9YoGPUU&usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Genoa Car Rental Map</a></b><br />
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 07.00-13.00/14.00-19.00 Sat. 07.00-13.00/15.00-19.00 Sun. Closed<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Genoa Airport</u></b></span><br />
At Genoa's Cristoforo Colombo airport the rental office hours include Saturday, Sunday and lunch. The companies include Avis/Budget, Hertz, Europcar, and Maggiore.<br />
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To reach the airport from Brignole or Piazza Prinicipe train stations, use the <a href="http://www.amt.genova.it/rete_e_orari/volabus_new.asp?lan=EN" target="_blank"><b>AMT's Volabus</b></a> which costs 6 Euro A Taxi will cost 20-25 Euro from Brignole Station and 15-20 Euro from Piazza Principe Station. We show these places on our <b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kDQ8y9YoGPUU&usp=sharing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Genoa Car Rental Map</a>.</b><br />
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<span itemprop="addressLocality"><b><u>Avis at Genoa Airport</u></b> </span><br />
<span itemprop="addressLocality">Hours are </span>Mon - Fri 7:30 - 23:00 Sat. & Sun 8:30 - 23:00<br />
<u><b>Avis</b> </u><b><u>Near Genoa Airport</u> </b> <span itemprop="streetAddress"><b>Via Pionieri Aviatori D'Italia</b> </span><br />
Open Mon - Fri 8:30-13:30 and 14:00-17:00 We don't know why this office is here. Please tell us.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=F38D7E29" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Check Avis/Budget through AUTOEUROPE</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.kemwel.com/aff/A2B3C4" target="_blank">Check for Avis/Budget at KEMWEL</a></b></div>
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<b><u>Europcar Genoa Airport</u></b><br />
Mon-Fri 8:00-22:00 Sat 08:30-18:00 Sun 08:30-13:00 /14:00-18:00<br />
<b><a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=F38D7E29" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Check for Europcar at AUTOEUROPE</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.kemwel.com/aff/A2B3C4" target="_blank">Check for Europcar at KEMWEL</a></b><br />
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<b><u>Hertz Genoa Airport</u></b><br />
Monday-Sunday 8:00 - 23:00<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://track.flexlinks.com/i.ashx?foid=1072266.246825&fot=9999&foc=1" /><br />
<b><a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=F38D7E29" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Check for Hertz at AUTOEUROPE</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.kemwel.com/aff/A2B3C4" target="_blank">Check for Hertz at KEMWEL</a></b><br />
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<b><u>Maggiore Genoa Airport</u></b><br />
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 07.30-23.30 Sunday 08.00-23.30<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO5sj9pBo1-gzJCRTIQAmNXNhj_G668iNV-0vdPT-7F1L6njTT6RQ1qNP57Pt5rURp0AO0QBeqLQeJikEL2-rMQnt2aBv49_IktxTgg50A_aXjToz5dUNlOFv5Zu8a2ndkZc0nmSLG8Vmi/s1600/Turismo_in_Liguria_Piazza_de_Ferrari.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fountain at night on Piazza de Ferrari, Genoa, Liguria" border="0" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO5sj9pBo1-gzJCRTIQAmNXNhj_G668iNV-0vdPT-7F1L6njTT6RQ1qNP57Pt5rURp0AO0QBeqLQeJikEL2-rMQnt2aBv49_IktxTgg50A_aXjToz5dUNlOFv5Zu8a2ndkZc0nmSLG8Vmi/s640/Turismo_in_Liguria_Piazza_de_Ferrari.jpg" title="Fountain at night on Piazza de Ferrari, Genoa, Liguria" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Piazza de Ferrari, Genoa CC by Turismo in Liguria</td></tr>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Savona</u></b><br />
Savona car rental offices are along the same street - Vittorio Veneto - see <b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kGsu68leSrR0&usp=sharing" target="_blank">Savona Car Rental Map</a>. </b>It's<b> </b>a 15-20 min. walk from the train station, a 20-30 min. walk from the Cruise Terminal. Estimated taxi cost - 15 Euro.<br />
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<b>Avis Corso Vittorio Veneto 246 R Savona</b><br />
Mon-Fri 08:30-12:00 / 15:00-18:30 Sat 09:00-12:00 Sun. Closed<br /><b> </b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=F38D7E29" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Check Avis/Budget through AUTOEUROPE</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.kemwel.com/aff/A2B3C4" target="_blank">Check for Avis/Budget at KEMWEL</a></b><br />
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<b>Hertz Corso Vittorio Veneto 4 R Savona</b><br />
Mon-Fri 08:30-12:00 / 15:00-18:30 Sat 08:30-12:30 Sun. Closed<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=F38D7E29" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Check for Hertz at AUTOEUROPE</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.kemwel.com/aff/A2B3C4" target="_blank">Check for Hertz at KEMWEL</a></b><br />
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<b>Europcar </b><b>Corso Vittorio Veneto</b><b> 284 R Savona</b><br />
Mon-Fri 8:30-12:30 / 14:30-18:30 Sat 08:30-12:30 Sun. Closed<br />
<b><a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=F38D7E29" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Check for Europcar at AUTOEUROPE</a></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.kemwel.com/aff/A2B3C4" target="_blank">Check for Europcar at KEMWEL</a></b><br />
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As far as we can tell, the <b>Maggiore Car Rental</b> location in Savona has been closed.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><u style="font-weight: bold;">Rapallo</u> (serving Portofino & Santa Margherita Ligure)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b style="font-size: medium;"><u>Europcar</u> </b><span style="font-size: small;"> <b>Via Gen. A. La Marmora, 33 Rapallo</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">The office is just a 5 minute walk from the Rapallo train station. This is the <b>only</b> car rental option reachable from Portofino or Santa Margherita without a train ride. <a href="http://www.atpesercizio.it/cartina2.php?sez=TOc" target="_blank"><b>ATP Bus Website</b></a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hours Mon-Fri 09:00-12:30 / 15:00-19:00 Sat 09:00-12:30 Sun. Closed</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><a href="http://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=F38D7E29" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Check for Europcar at AUTOEUROPE</a></b></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><a href="http://www.kemwel.com/aff/A2B3C4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Check for Europcar at KEMWEL</a></b></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="font-size: x-large;"><u>More Info</u></b></span></span></span></span><br />
<b><a href="http://www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Trenitalia (English)</a> </b>for train information. Trains might not show until a few weeks ahead, depending on the type of train and seasonal schedule changes. Use fake dates to see possibilities.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.autostrade.it/en/home" target="_blank">Autostrade Italia</a></b> Plan your route, see traffic conditions & warnings, find tolls and rest stops.<br />
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<b>IDP:</b> I<b>nternational Driver's Permit </b>Drivers from non-EU countries are required by Italian law to possess an IDP or an official translation along with their driver's license. Car rental companies MAY decline to rent if you don't have one. The IDP should be obtained <b>only</b> from a vendor authorized by your country's Department of State. Other websites offering to supply one are <b>fraudulent!</b> In the USA, the authorized entity is the <a href="http://www.aaa.com/vacation/idpf.html" target="_blank"><b>AAA</b></a>. In Canada, it's the <b><a href="http://www.caa.ca/travelling/idp/" target="_blank">CAA</a>. </b>In Australia, they are issued by the States: <b><a href="http://smartraveller.gov.au/guide/all-travellers/getting-around/road-safety-and-driving.html#permit" target="_blank">SmartTraveller.gov.au</a>. </b><br />
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<b><u>Maps.</u></b> For driving around Italy, we recommend <b>T</b>ouring <b>C</b>lub <b>I</b>taliano (TCI) 1:200,000 paper maps, even if you will have a GPS or Smartphone App (or offline Google maps). It's more expensive (they're about $9. in Italy), but easier to buy the maps before you arrive, - here are Amazon links to some of the TCI maps. (See <b>About Us & Disclosures</b> below).<br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8836563082/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=8836563082&linkCode=as2&tag=wwwapathtolun-20&linkId=KXV4AR2QNYDJ6PCI" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TCI Tuscany 1:200K</a> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8836548342?creativeASIN=8836548342&linkCode=w00&linkId=WFL7R3VIFVNOIH7U&ref_=as_sl_pc_qf_sp_asin_til&tag=wwwapathtolun-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TCI Liguria 1:200K</a> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8836563112?creativeASIN=8836563112&linkCode=w00&linkId=QDR4TSAN2RUQNXYC&ref_=as_sl_pc_qf_sp_asin_til&tag=wwwapathtolun-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TCI Veneto+ 1:200K</a> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8836563104?creativeASIN=8836563104&linkCode=w00&linkId=7Q5SVJVROSTMOS7P&ref_=as_sl_pc_qf_sp_asin_til&tag=wwwapathtolun-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TCI Umbria/Marche 1:200K</a></b><br />
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Heading to Piedmont? Read our story - <a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/12/an-italian-itinerary-small-cities-in.html" target="_blank"><b>An Italian Itinerary - Small Cities in Piedmont, Italy</b></a><br />
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Travelling beyond Liguria? Use this <a href="http://www.booking.com/country/it.en-us.html?aid=354603" target="_blank"><b>Booking.Com.Italy</b></a> link for accommodation anywhere in Italy.<br />
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Some of Our Liguria Stories</span></u></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2013/04/spring-weather-in-liguria.html" target="_blank">Spring Weather & Holidays in Liguria</a> </b>When should you should visit? Answers on the left.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/05/getting-to-portofino-walking-hiking-and.html" style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Getting to Portofino - Walking, Hiking and More</a><b style="font-family: inherit;"> </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Walk, Hike, Boat or Bus to famous </span>Portofino.<br />
<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/09/portovenere-travel-guide-top-ten.html"><b>Portovenere Travel Guide - The Top Ten Attractions</b></a> All about beautiful nearby Portovenere.<br />
<b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2014/02/the-most-beautiful-villages-in-liguria_25.html" target="_blank">Most Beautiful Villages of Liguria Part 7</a> </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Four Gulf villages including Tellaro, Montemarcello.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2012/05/jewish-ghetto-of-lerici.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">The Jewish Ghetto of Lerici</a> An ordinary Ligurian street crowded with a unique history.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2012/06/forgotten-villages-of-gulf-of-poets.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">The Forgotten Villages of the Gulf of the Poets</a> Hike to ancient abandoned villages above Lerici.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Where the Heck are These Places?</b></span></div>
<span style="color: black;">Our </span><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=ztJqhdPownEM.kCVa0eEqcXlU&usp=sharing" target="_blank"><b>Liguria Levante / Cinque Terre Map</b></a><span style="color: black;"> showing the all the Towns.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Where To Stay to Visit Cinque Terre?</b></span></div>
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We list the Pluses & Minuses of all the towns nearby with Recommended Hotels.</div>
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/02/hotel-recommendations-portovenere.html" target="_blank"><b>Part 1 Liguria Hotel Guide & City Selector</b></a></div>
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Lerici, Portovenere, La Spezia. Visit Cinque Terre & enjoy the Gulf of the Poets as well.</div>
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<a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/10/liguria-hotel-guide-city-selector-Part-1.html" target="_blank"><b>Part 2 Liguria Hotel Guide & City Selector</b></a></div>
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Levanto, Bonassola, Moneglia, Sestri Levante, Lavagna, Chiavari. Visit both Cinque Terre & Portofino.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.apathtolunch.com/2015/10/liguria-hotel-guide-city-selector-part.html" target="_blank">Part 3 Liguria Hotel Guide & City Selector</a></b></div>
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Rapallo, Santa Margherita, Portofino, Camogli, Recco. The Perfect Portofino Peninsula</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqtwA9M5P6DTGqSKT2Z3GlOMTlifgW6CfvXCN0bpq97NzVyhEq2Wj3gucZgd4TP6PRaDA-4ExI2cUxXOa1AJMAAedrJpz4AN6w2DX10NlbwMooix3TnIUx4awmgX-aBm7NiWmes_ElKVcL/s1600/GooglePlusPhotoM.png" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqtwA9M5P6DTGqSKT2Z3GlOMTlifgW6CfvXCN0bpq97NzVyhEq2Wj3gucZgd4TP6PRaDA-4ExI2cUxXOa1AJMAAedrJpz4AN6w2DX10NlbwMooix3TnIUx4awmgX-aBm7NiWmes_ElKVcL/s200/GooglePlusPhotoM.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We help everyone, NY Yankees included.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 16px;"><b><u>About Us & Disclosure</u></b></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 16px;">We are Martha and Mike from Boston - recently retired photo editors who enjoy travel, food, and helping people. We have visited Italy for three decades, and we live in Liguria part-time. We have no connection to the car rental or hotel industries, and we receive no payments or free stuff for our writing or opinions. </span><span style="line-height: 16px;">As is internet convention, we receive the standard commission for clicks on many of the commercial links that result in a purchase. Buon Viaggio.</span><br />
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Photos credited 'CC by' are used via a Creative Commons copyright license thanks to community-minded photographers. They are not altered, and can be found on <a href="https://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank"><b>Flickr</b></a>.<br />
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<a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/109874875615046328762?rel=author"></a>Written by Mike<br />
Ligurian Proverb: <i>Ogni promessa e un debito.</i> (Every promise is a debt.)<br />
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Mike+Martha / apathtolunch.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10495644832434937856noreply@blogger.com