Where is this and how do I get there? - Manarola, Italy

It flashes across your Instagram feed and leaves you breathless for a moment: colorful houses nestled like toy blocks against a steep cliff face. Below, turquoise water laps against the shore, while the sun bathes everything in a warm, golden glow. This is Manarola, a place so magical you can hardly believe it actually exists.

A jewel on the Italian coast

Manarola is nestled in the north of Italy, in the enchanting region of Liguria. It is one of the five iconic villages; Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore Cinque Terre , that UNESCO World Heritage Site that has enchanted travellers from all over the world for decades. The village seems to float between the sea and the mountains, as if drawn by an artist between the rocks. Small, charming and so photogenic that every corner is worth a picture.

A story of centuries

Manarola's history goes back a long way, with the first stones being laid here in Roman times. What began as a modest fishing village grew into a vibrant community where, in addition to fishing, wine growing also flourished. This tradition still lives on in the terraced vineyards that climb the hills like green steps.

The name Manarola comes from the Latin Manium arula , meaning 'little altar for the spirits'. A mysterious origin that perfectly matches the magical atmosphere that the village still exudes.

A rainbow of colors

What makes Manarola so irresistibly photogenic? The answer lies in the spectacular splendor of colors . Pink, orange,butter yellow , blue, green – every house seems to shine in its own pastel color. This tradition arose from practical considerations: fishermen had to be able to recognize their homes from far away at sea. Today, these vibrant colors are mainly a gift for our eyes and cameras.

What to experience in this little paradise

• Walking with views to dream away
  Manarola is located on the famous Via dell'Amore, the romantic footpath that takes you to neighboring Riomaggiore. Along the way you will be treated to breathtaking panoramas that will stay with you for a long time.
  
  
• Swimming between the rocks
  Forget classic sandy beaches – here you dive into crystal clear waters from natural rock plateaus. Pure luxury for adventurers.
  
  
• Tasting the local wine culture
  The white wine Sciacchetrà is an absolute must. This sweet dessert wine is still produced according to age-old traditions on the steep terraced vineyards.
  
  
• Getting lost in the magic
  Stroll through winding streets, breathe in the scent of fresh focaccia , enjoy authentic gelato and simply let time stand still.

Why Manarola Will Steal Your Heart

Manarola has that rare gift of offering everything that makes your dream vacation perfect : peace without boredom, beauty without artificiality, adventure without stress. The food is heavenly, the people are warm, and somehow time just seems to tick a little slower here.

This is romance without the kitsch, liveliness without the chaos. It is a place where you step into another world, a world where everything is just a little bit more beautiful, friendly and special.

Your route to paradise

The smartest approach: Fly to Pisa or Genoa, then take the train to La Spezia and change there to the regional train to Cinque Terre. Within fifteen minutes you can get off in Manarola, it couldn't be easier. You can also take a car, but parking is scarce and expensive. Plus, you'll miss the spectacular train ride along the coast, where every moment offers a new photo opportunity. You can also get there sometimes with a Mediterranean cruise . It must be wonderful to be able to see the villages from the water!

'Fun' fact 1: ban on slippers

Here comes a rule you’ve probably never heard of: since 2019, there’s an official no-slip rule on the Cinque Terre hiking trails! The reason? Too many tourists have been slipping and getting injured on the narrow, steep trails. Since emergency services can often only reach these places by helicopter, the authorities decided to intervene. So pack your hiking boots, and leave your flip-flops at home!

Funny fact 2: Luca

Cinque Terre really came onto the radar here because of the Disney Pixar film Luca. It is clear where the makers of the film got their inspiration.

Have you already fallen in love with Manarola?

Or have you perhaps already visited this magical place? Share your experience in the comments and tell us which view touched you the most!

Image: Unsplash