£13 train ride is one of ‘world’s most beautiful rail journeys’ | Europe | Travel

Taking the train can be an amazing way to explore a new place at your own pace, giving you time to stop and really appreciate destinations along the way. But this romantic, old-fashioned way of travelling can come with a hefty price tag.

So, you may be surprised to hear that a train journey, often listed among the most beautiful in the world, can be enjoyed for as little as £13 a day. As an added benefit, the train passes through a spectacular coastal area, allowing tourists access to five seaside villages along the way, full of Italian charm and character.

The Cinque Terre, which roughly translates to ‘five lands’, is a cluster of fishing villages which can be found along Italy’s northwestern Ligurian Riviera. The area has UNESCO World Heritage status thanks to its beautifully-preserved seaside villages full of colourful homes and cobbled lanes. Lush green vineyards cover the landscape, leading to unspoilt beaches and turquoise seas. 

Arguably, the best way to explore the area is on The Cinque Terre Express, and while this journey between Levanto and La Spezia only takes 30-minutes, it’s packed with spectacular landscapes and sea views. 

The train stops at the five villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, allowing passengers to step off when they please and explore each unique area. Running every 20-minutes at peak times, from early morning to late evening, a day ticket gives you plenty of time to explore. 

While it’s difficult to decide which is the most beautiful village, Vernazza often tops the list with travellers on this train journey. It has a quintessential Italian vibe, its steep winding roads lined with colourful houses and shops owned by locals. Cars are banned from its streets, which is no surprise as even the most diminutive Fiat would struggle to take on the narrow corners.

Down at Porto di Vernazza, diners can enjoy local dishes such as seafood pasta and enjoy the sea views, or hop on a boat to see the coastal villages from a different perspective. 

Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the villages, and its long sandy beach draws in tourists. It’s flatter than the nearby locales, making it a little easier to explore, and its beach has calm, clear waters. 

Visitors can hire a sun lounger for the day, or simply find a spot to lie on the sand. There’s also a medieval old quarter which is worth a visit, especially the centuries-old Aurora Tower and the ruins of Fieschi Castle, formerly the property of an influential local family.

Along the route, you can access 48 walking paths, and you’ll find options for beginners as well as more experienced hikers. Make sure you do your research and come prepared, especially during the hot summers, when the sun can be relentless. An easy stroll is the path between Riomaggiore and Manarola, which takes about 30-minutes and offers amazing coastal views. 

Tickets for The Cinque Terre Express can be bought at the station or the Trenitalia website, and while you can buy individual singles, it’s worth considering buying a Cinque Terre MS Card.

This card allows unlimited travel along the route, and an off-peak day pass costs just €14.80 (just under £13). You can also opt for two or three-day passes at €26.50 and €31.50 (approximately £23 and £27 respectively). These prices are half the standard fare due to being off-peak and are valid until 13 March.

During peak periods, a day pass costs up to €32.50 for an adult, which is just over £28, but still offers excellent value for money. In the summer months, certain hiking trails charge an access fee, but with a day pass for the Cinque Terre Express, you also receive entry to paid hiking areas between Monterosso and Corniglia.

The price of a peak ticket also includes bus access within the Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre, making it simpler to reach more remote walking trails.

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