Coastal Italy's Seaside Charm & Tuscan Villages
Hike dramatic coastal trails and climb through vineyard-covered hills. Trace ancient footpaths between stone villages and seaside hamlets. Hear church bells echo through quiet piazzas and waves crash below cliffside towns. Let the spirit of Italy move at your pace.
Highlights
- Hike the iconic trails of Cinque Terre, passing pastel villages and sweeping coastal views
- Dine seaside on fresh seafood, then savor hearty Tuscan dishes paired with bold local wines
- Roam through quiet hill towns, olive groves and winding vineyard paths in the heart of Chianti
- Raise a glass at family-run wineries, tasting everything from crisp whites to robust reds
- Unwind at elegant seaside and countryside hotels, from the Ligurian coast to Tuscan hills
Start Pisa
End Florence
* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Itinerary
Days 1-3
Walk coastal trails lined with olive groves and terraced vineyards • Discover Cinque Terre’s World Heritage coastline by foot and by train, from colorful Riomaggiore to the beaches of Monterosso • Choose highland hikes for panoramic views or linger in cliffside towns like Manarola and Vernazza • Follow scenic paths past painted villas into chic Portofino • Explore the vibrant harborfront of Santa Margherita Ligure and the Golfo del Tigullio • Swim, sunbathe and unwind at our welcoming Ligurian hideaway • Savor Ligurian cuisine with sea views and fresh Mediterranean flavors.
Nights 1-3
Just steps from the bay of Santa Margherita, this art-nouveau-style hotel delivers sweeping views of the Ligurian Sea from its panoramic perch. A path down through a garden shaded by pine and palm trees brings you to the hotel's private beach, where lounge chairs frame protected swimming coves.
Days 4-6
Trade sea views for Tuscan vineyards as we head inland to Chianti’s timeless landscapes • Hike through Greve, Montefioralle and Panzano, pausing for farm-fresh lunches and rich reds • Wander the medieval streets of Radda, the heart of Chianti Classico • Enjoy a signature Backroads picnic at Castelvecchi’s 1,000-year-old cellars • Walk the strada bianca through olive groves and cypress-studded hills • Wind down each night at a peaceful hilltop retreat • Extend your journey with a visit to Florence, Italy’s Renaissance jewel.
Nights 4-5
Owned by the same family since the 1500s, this former manor house sits among olive groves and vineyards. Traditional Tuscan décor, lush gardens, tennis courts and a heated infinity pool overlooking the countryside create a relaxed setting after a day of biking quiet country roads. (pool)
What's Included
See moreStraight Talk
We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
Cinque Terre is a popular tourist destination with busy peak seasons including summer months and on national holidays. During these periods, crowds are common. To access the best hiking areas in the Cinque Terre, we will sometimes be riding on state-operated regional trains alongside locals and other tourists. The trains can be subject to delays and crowded during peak seasons. Because the national park is still recovering from trail damage from previous years, closures may occur. In the event of a trail closure, your Backroads Trip Leaders will have alternate hikes and activities available. For more information on the park and trail closures, please visit www.parconazionale5terre.it.
Our routes through this captivating region follow mostly narrow trails, with occasional technical sections featuring roots, stones or steps. Because of the nature of these coastal paths, vehicle support won’t be available on some days. Alternative options to move along the coast—such as local trains or ferries—are always available.
Hotels
Deluxe Hotels
Our Deluxe hotels have great ambience and modern comforts.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
Nights 1-3
*Deluxe Hotel
Just steps from the bay of Santa Margherita, this art-nouveau-style hotel delivers sweeping views of the Ligurian Sea from its panoramic perch. A path down through a garden shaded by pine and palm trees brings you to the hotel's private beach, where lounge chairs frame protected swimming coves.
Nights 4-5
*Deluxe Hotel
Owned by the same family since the 1500s, this former manor house sits among olive groves and vineyards. Traditional Tuscan décor, lush gardens, tennis courts and a heated infinity pool overlooking the countryside create a relaxed setting after a day of biking quiet country roads. (pool)
Gallery
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Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices
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