Train from Florence to Monterosso (Cinque Terre)

Taking a day trip from Florence to hike the famous Cinque Terre trails is a great way to get to see these charming seaside villages! Whether you’re going for just one day or a few days, the train is the best way to get there.

It may seem like driving the 113 miles (182 km) would be faster than taking the train, but driving to the Cinque Terre is a hassle. Not only that, you can’t drive into the center of the towns themselves. It’s far easier and less complicated to take the train. 

Frequent Trains from Florence to Cinque Terre-Monterosso

The high-speed train starts at Florence to Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five towns in the Cinque Terre region. There are no direct trains, but there are 18 trains departing Firenze Santa Maria Novella station each day that will get you to the Cinque Terre-Monterosso station.

The station at which you’ll change trains varies, so check your itinerary closely. Many go through Pisa or La Spezia, but there are other options. Also note that some routes require two connections. The trip takes from 2.5-3 hours, and tickets cost $20-28.

Note that weekends and holidays typically mean less frequent service and sometimes longer travel times.

Direct Trains from Florence to Cinque Terre-Monterosso

There are no direct trains from Florence to Monterosso al Mare. There are routes with one or two connections, so pay attention as you’re booking to know how many changes you’ll need to make.

Amenities on Trains from Florence to Cinque Terre-Monterosso

Regionale trains do not have the same quality of amenities as the AV trains. There are sometimes both 1st and 2nd class cars, but the 1st class cars are not similar to the Frecciarossa 1st class, for example, some Regionale trains don't have air conditioning in every car. Reservations on these trains aren't necessary.

Florence and Cinque Terre-Monterosso Train Stations

Florence's Santa Maria Novella station, the main station in the city, is close to the historic center, and is a major hub for city and regional buses, making it easy to get to and from the station if you're traveling light.

Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five Cinque Terre towns, and has the biggest train station of the five. In addition to the slow trains that run through Cinque Terre, Monterosso also has service from faster trains coming into the region from places like Milan or Rome. The station is in the town center, and you can take a local bus or simply walk to your destination from there.