The Italian Riviera boasts a stunning, natural coastline dotted with romantic villages and towns, but the five fishing villages of the Cinque Terre are undeniably the most beautiful and picturesque. Colourful houses perched on cliffs, little restaurants serving seafood, perfectly preserved architecture and a network of pretty, coastal mountain trails combine to make this Mediterranean gem one of the finest places to visit on any Italy holiday. We've rounded up six spectacular reasons why the Cinque Terre should be on your bucket list – not that you'll need any more persuading...

1. BECAUSE YOU GET NOT ONE, NOT TWO, BUT FIVE VILLAGES TO EXPLORE!

From fresh seafood and sweeping vistas in Riomaggiore to exotic sea views in Manarola, you'll find everything you've been dreaming of in this string of century-old seaside villages. Five fantastic towns are nestled along the pretty coast of the Italian Riviera; Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. The region is renowned for its exquisite scenery, great dining and luxuriously laid-back vibes. If you want to stretch your legs on a warm sandy beach, Monterosso is the place to go, or for an adventure holiday explore Riomaggiore, where you can rent a kayak and soak up views of the villages from the sea.

Explore more of this amazing destination with our must-see guide of the best places to visit in Italy.

2. BECAUSE YOU’VE PLENTIFUL SUNSHINE AND WARM BEACHES

The Italian Riviera is one of the most stylish and romantic places to holiday, thanks to the pretty beaches and elegant towns. Whether you want to relax on the beach, take a dip in the crystal-clear sea, indulge in exhilarating watersports, or embark on a diving tour, you’ve got endless opportunities during your beach holidays here. Monterosso al Mare has the largest beach in Cinque Terre, with sun loungers and umbrellas for those sunny days and a handful of stunning hotels great for couples and family holidays. Hit the famous beach nestled down a staircase between Manarola and Corniglia to soak up scenic views and for some secluded spots on the sand. Manarola is a popular swimming spot in Cinque Terre, but if you want to beat the crowds and still have beautiful views, Vernazza is a good shot. 

3. BECAUSE OF THOSE BREATHTAKING OCEAN VIEWS

Thanks to the colourful towns perched on the cliffs and the stunning Italian climate, this sun-drenched paradise is one of the most photographed places in Italy. Wherever you walk, you're greeted by jaw-dropping coastal views. The most famous walking trails in the region are The Blue Path (which is visited by 95% of visitors), The Riomaggiore Ring and Cape of Mesco - each offering spectacular forestry, wildlife and stunning views of the colourful towns and turqouise-blue seas. 

4. BECAUSE YOU’VE NEVER WINED AND DINED LIKE THIS BEFORE

It's no surprise that these traditional Italian villages serve up amazing cuisine, and since the towns are nestled in a prime growing regions - delicious local wine, olive oil, lemons, pine nuts and other delicacies are produced just a stone’s throw away from where you're eating. Its location near the Ligurian sea means the Cinque Terre is best known for its fantastic fresh seafood, with anchovies being a local speciality of the region. In Riomaggiore, you’ll find vibrant  seafood stalls selling fried specialities in cones, including shrimp, anchovies, squid, mussels and white fish. But, if you looking for a fine dining experience, Bar La Torre in Vernazza takes dining to the next level with a fantastic menu and views of the town and sparkling ocean. Pair your superb seafood dish with a delicate glass of Sciacchetra, the region's local wine has been produced in the hills for centuries. 

5. BECAUSE THE COASTAL VILLAGES LOOK JUST AS BEAUTIFUL FROM A BOAT

Another unique way of exploring the colourful villages of Cinque Terre is from the sea. Whether you glide past the region's rugged landscape on a sleek yacht, family-sized catamraran or cosy boat, you can enjoy the open space and surrounding sea views as you look upon the candy-coloured clifftops, sandy bays and green-covered rocks from a distance. You may spot a lot of locals commuting from village to village via ferry, which is also a great way to see all that the Cinque Terre has to offer. But please note that the ferries operate from April to October only. 

6. BECAUSE THE LOCALS ARE SUPER WELCOMING AND HOSPITABLE

You can't help but feel at home during your holidays in Cinque Terre. The credit goes to all of the smiles from visitors and locals alike, whether you're in a pretty local shop selling souvenirs, seated in a restaurant waiting for food or chatting to the local barman by the beach - the friendly locals make it even harder to pack up and leave the place. Well, what better way to connect than by drinking local wine and eating tasty bruschettas?