My wife and I are going to be staying in Genova in mid May, but want to day trip down to Cinque Terre for a day (I know...I wish I had more time to be there). Its too much to take in for one day. Looking for recommendations of what city/ies to go to with limited time. Where is the best place to pick up a boat tour? Thanks for any suggestions!

We got on the boat/ferry at Monterrosso and rode to Riomaggiore. This gave us a gorgeous view of all the villages inbetween. After exploring Riomaggiore we hopped on the train and rode to Vernazza which is where we were staying. Monterrosso is good size with a nice size beach and lots of cafes and shops. Vernazza is a must see for many reasons. Riomaggiore is fun to explore - it's very pretty and has interesting spots to visit. Combining boat and train is easy and convenient.

I'm guessing there may be a boat between Genoa-Monterosso, however don't have any specific knowledge. You do have the option to take the train. It seems most of the trains on this route are "R" (regional) which aren't as quick as the "IC" (intercity). At any rate, it'll take between 1 1/2 to 2 hrs to get to Monterossa Al Mare --- that's the first CT town from the direction you'll be coming.

With only a day, I'd opt to go on to Vernazza -- stroll around, eat lunch there. After lunch, get on the boat and go to Riomaggiore -- boat tracks closely along the coastline and affords lovely photo ops -- you'll go past Corniglia, Manarola and then can disembark at Riomaggiore. If you wanted to have a CT stroll between towns, the shortest distance (and only paved route) is between Riomaggiore and Manarola (a/k/a Via DelAmore).

I would train to Monterosso and take the ferry boat from there to the other villages---hop off/on.

Hi, I stayed in Monterosso for a few days a couple of years ago and it proved to be a good base of operations. It's a little bigger than the other cities and offers more services. I agree with the last poster, disembark there, and get a boat to Vernazza, or train, either way would work. Then train it back to Genova.(I think you can kayak in Monterosso as well, depending on when you go.)I personally suggest the boat ride in to Vernazza, then maybe the train to the other cities, or not. All of the five cities are beautiful and worth visiting. However, if I were pressed for time, I would pick quality over quantity and choose Monterosso and Vernazza. I'm jealous! Have a great time!

I appreciate the insights...I'll follow the advice to train down Monterosso and take a boat to Vernazza! Ciao a tutti!