What's the best time to visit Cinque Terre, Italy?

Question

We're leaning toward either May or Sept-Oct. Is either time better than the other?

Answer 1

May

Answer 2

May would be nicer weather-wise and less busy.

Answer 3

i dont think it matters. may may be a bit hot, but everything may be more beautiful. depends on the climate you prefer.

Answer 4

Cinque Terre is absolutely beautiful!  You're going to love it!  I was there in late November and it was cold and rainy but I still went swimming in the ocean; it was so beautiful I couldn't resist.  It's a tourist spot so it might be busiest in May but the weather might be better then, too.  You should look at what the typical weather is like for either month and choose a time when it will be warm and not rainy.

Answer 5

either time would be good. just don't go in the summer.

Answer 6

It depends on what you're looking for.

In May, wild flowers will add the charm of the scenery but the sea will be too cold to swim. Weekdays will be pleasant but weekends will be crowded as both Italians and foreigners flock to the beach.

By the second week of September, the crowds have diminished significantly but the sea is still warm enough to swim.

You can't beat a clear fall day. The air is crisp and even smells clean but the chance of rain is significantly higher and the water is again too cold to dip your toes.