The hamlet of Vernazza is one of the most picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre and is a member of the prestigious club “Borghi più belli d’Italia” (the most beautiful villages in Italy). The Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia, built on the rocks overlooking the sea, is one of the oldest churches in Vernazza.The Tower of the Doria Castle is located above the bay and the small port of Vernazza.
Like the other villages of the Cinque Terre, Vernazza is surrounded by dry stone terraces (muretti a secco), which enclose its vineyards. These famous muretti a secco, built by hard working farmers over the centuries, rise vertically from the sea. The muretti a secco are considered a UNESCO World Heritage. Vernazza offers hiking excursions through the vineyards and the Mediterranean maquis. Its many footpaths are well kept by the staff of the National Park of the Cinque Terre.
The Via dei Santuari (the Sanctuary Way), follows the high crest above the villages of the Cinque Terre. Some of the most important sanctuaries which can be found along this path are Soviore and Montenero.
The footpaths of the Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre also connect the villages with the Val di Vara and the Gulf of La Spezia.
In spring and summer, ferries and boat tours depart daily from Vernazza going to the gulf towns, the other Cinque Terre, the Riviera and Portofino, weather and sea conditions permitting (info: www.navigazionegolfodeipoeti.it)
Highway A12, 40 km far from the tollgate of La Spezia
Train station: Vernazza (info: www.trenitalia.com)