We're scheduled for two nights in Vernazza in September and I just noticed that my stay seems to coincide with a Rick Steves group in the same town. I've nothing against his tours (in fact like his books), but I was wondering if his groups tend to overpower a small village like Vernazza. If so, I'm think of moving further south to Manarola?
Thanks for comments --

The Steves group will be a minor problem compared to the thousands of Euro backpackers--it will be crowded with young people and hikers of all ages.

You won't believe the mass of humanity you will encounter at this Rick Steves "back door" location and the other 4 villages as well.

Larry J

Rick's groups aren't very large. They will be a drop in the bucket.

That is, unless you start counting all the people who are there because they read about it in Rick Steves' guidebooks..despite the crowds the place apparently remains charming for many folks.

Keep it as is. We just stayed in Riomaggiore and since it's cheaper the backpackers were everywhere. I thought VErnazza was lovely and had more to offer- I would suggestoin making a reservation for dinner a day in advance if possible. or early same day. You can get a 3euro card from a tabacci shop that will work at the public phones that are everywhere. Enjoy! (The hike was great, we started at 9am and encountered very few people).

I went to CT last September because it was recommended in Rick's book. I might not have heard of it otherwise. I found it completely charming, and the hike a must do. I stayed in Monterosso b/c I wanted to be nearer the bigger beach, and was pleased I did. Great experience.

What Rufus said. I don't think more than one Steves tour group is in a city or village at any one time and they're not that large. Highly-doubtful-to-impossible that his tour group will "overpower" Vernazza.

Since you don't seem to be a member of the I-Hate-Rick-Steves anti-fan club, stay in Vernazza. IMO, it's by far the most picturesque of the five villages. Manarola's nice, but does not have the wonderful harborside piazza that Vernazza does.

By the way, if you hike or take the train to Manarola, be sure to visit the nice little park on a point that's just a bit south of town; great view back to the village from that point.

Sheepdog- May I ask what days in Sept. the Steves group is scheduled to be there?

My husband and I will also be there in Sept. I'm not too worried about the crowds and tourists. I know what to expect and will do my very best to just try to enjoy the area regardless of the crowds.

Thanks to everyone for your comments.
Julie, based on the R.S. website, they're scheduled to have a group in Vernazza on 9/17 and 9/18. But there may be more dates. They say they book Trattario Gianni 50 nights each season.
I guess I'll stick with Vernazza. Has anyone stayed at Giuliano Basso?