Yes, you can drive to Cinque Terre from Florence, but is it the best option? As someone who’s explored Italy extensively and experienced both driving and public transport routes firsthand, I’m here to give you the whole picture. While the scenic drive through Tuscany and Liguria is undeniably beautiful, once you reach the outskirts of Cinque Terre, driving is restricted, and parking can be tricky.
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In this guide, I’ll break down “Can you drive to Cinque Terre from Florence?” covering the driving route, parking options, and alternative ways to reach these iconic coastal villages so you can make an informed decision about your trip. Whether you’re road-tripping or looking for stress-free options, this post will help you.
Best Driving Routes From Florence To Cinque Terre
Having driven this route a few times, I can confidently say that the journey from Florence to Cinque Terre is not just about getting from point A to point B. Unless you are short on time, you will definitely want to plan on making a few stops along the way.
How To Drive From Florence To Cinque Terre
If you’re planning to drive from Florence to Cinque Terre, there are two main routes to consider. The most direct route takes you along the A12 highway, which gets you to Cinque Terre in about 2.5 to 3 hours under normal conditions. However, during peak travel seasons, expect traffic to slow you down, particularly near coastal areas. For a more scenic drive, take the route via Pisa and Lucca—you can stop to admire the Leaning Tower or explore my favorite Tuscan town, Lucca. Pull over at a coastal viewpoint as you approach the Ligurian coast to soak in the stunning Mediterranean views. Check out the Google Map below for the best route options for easy navigation.
Parking Near Cinque Terre – The Best Options
Finding parking near Cinque Terre can be a challenge, especially during peak season; however, with the right information, you can easily navigate it. Since the villages are primarily car-free, parking is only available in designated areas outside the villages and in La Spezia, Levanto, or Monterosso. Since this trip starts from Florence, I wouldn’t advise parking in Levanto or Monterosso since those towns are further north.
Many parking areas are just outside the villages, and the walks can be somewhat long and up hills. Shuttles in all the parking areas can take you into the villages.
Parking Maps
Monterosso Parking Map
Vernazzo Parking Map
Manarola Parking Map
It’s also possible to find parking along the street as you approach the town, that is free.
Riomaggiore Parking Map
Corniglia Parking
Parking is along the street as you head towards town.
If you know your car license plate number, you can book a spot at www.mobpark.it, click on “park centro stazione“
Parking Tips
Valuable parking tips include:
- Arrive early to secure a parking spot
- Only park in designated parking areas or risk getting a fine
- Check the parking areas for nearby shuttles
- Beware of parking fees. As of this post, parking fees outside the villages are changing and have not yet been determined for after October 2024.
- Follow local regulations. (Don’t park in yellow zones. Only park in the white ones)
- Some parking areas have time limits, so it’s best to take note of that.
- Use Mobile Apps: Consider downloading parking apps that provide real-time information on available spots and prices. Apps like Parkopedia or EasyPark can help you find the best options.
Alternative Ways to Get to Cinque Terre from Florence
The train is usually the best option when considering alternative ways to get to Cinque Terre from Florence. Driving offers scenic views, but navigating the narrow roads and finding parking near Cinque Terre can be stressful. On the other hand, catching a direct train from Florence to La Spezia is simple and efficient and only costs around €17-18. From there, you can hop on the regional train that connects all five Cinque Terre villages. The train ride from Florence to La Spezia takes about 2.5 hours, with frequent daily departures. Las Spezia has two train stations, so you can check the times for either one. (La Spezia Centrale and La Spezia Migliarina) Regional train tickets to the villages are affordable, usually costing around €5-6 per trip, making the train a stress-free and cost-effective option compared to driving.
Bus Options from Florence
If you’re looking for bus options from Florence to Cinque Terre, be prepared for a longer journey compared to driving or taking the train. Plan at least an extra couple of hours. There isn’t a direct bus to Cinque Terre, so you will take a bus to La Spezia and then transfer to another bus or a regional train to reach the villages. The times and costs are pretty similar for either one.
Buses are a budget-friendly choice, but their schedules are more limited, making them less convenient than hopping on a train or driving yourself.
Is Driving Worth It? Weighing The Pros And Cons
As someone who’s driven this route a couple of times, I can tell you that driving to Cinque Terre from Florence has its benefits but also comes with a few challenges. Before hitting the road, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to decide if driving is truly the best option for your trip. Here’s what you need to know:
PROS
- Scenic Routes: Drive through picturesque Tuscan and Ligurian landscapes, with opportunities to stop at charming towns like Pisa and Lucca.
- Flexibility: Set your own schedule and explore areas off the beaten path.
- Comfort: Enjoy the convenience of your own car, especially if traveling with luggage or a group.
- Ideal for Road Trip Lovers: If you enjoy the freedom and adventure of a road trip, driving allows you to turn the journey itself into part of the experience.
CONS:
- Parking Challenges: Parking is limited near Cinque Terre, and the villages are car-free, so you’ll need to park outside and take a train or shuttle.
- Traffic: Expect congestion during peak travel seasons, especially near coastal areas.
- Narrow Roads: Some roads leading to Cinque Terre can be narrow and winding, which may be stressful for less experienced drivers.
- Car Rental Fees: Renting a car in Italy can be costly
- Gas Prices: Gas in Italy is very expensive
FAQS
Below are some commonly asked questions on Can You Drive To Cinque Terre From Florence?
Can You Drive Through The Cinque Terre Villages?
No, you cannot drive through the Cinque Terre villages. In some areas, residents can drive to their homes, but these villages are, for the most part, pedestrian-only. You must park in designated areas. To explore the area, use public transportation such as trains, shuttles, or ferries.
Where Is The Closest Parking To Cinque Terre?
There are designated parking lots outside the villages (See maps above). There is also parking in La Spezia, Levanto (which I don’t recommend simply because you are coming from Florence and it’s north of all the villages), or Monterosso.
What’s The Best Transportation To Cinque Terre From Florence?
From my experience, if you want the least hassle, I suggest taking a train. There are so many times available to get a train, it’s less expensive, and you don’t have to worry about parking.
Can You Rent A Car To Drive From Florence To Cinque Terre?
Absolutely! It’s easy to rent a car in Florence. There is one very close to the train station, where I always get my car rental. I use Discover Cars for the best rates.
Conclusion
So, can you drive to Cinque Terre from Florence? Technically, yes, but whether it’s the best option depends on your travel style. The drive is undeniably scenic and allows you to stop at iconic spots like Pisa and Lucca. But once you get close to the Cinque Terre, the charm of the car-free villages makes driving less practical. Parking can be tricky, especially during the busy seasons, and you’ll need to park outside the villages and take the train or shuttle in. For many travelers, hopping on a direct train from Florence to La Spezia and then transferring to the Cinque Terre regional line is a much easier and stress-free option, and it is my preferred way to travel between these two places. In the end, it comes down to how much time you have and your own personal preferences.
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