Cinque Terre is named for the five towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore on the Ligurian Sea Coast of northwest Italy. It is a rugged, steep coastal area south of Genoa and the touristic town of Portofino. It is one of my favorite travel destinations that is steeped in color. Vehicles are not allowed in the towns unless you are a resident. Access for tourists is normally by boat, train or local hiking trails.
When in the towns, you will find local fishermen selling their early morning catches that local restaurants will cook for you (so I was told by one of the fishermen). While some of the fishermen were actively trying to sell me their wares, another one sat reading his newspaper and smoking a cigar waiting for customers to approach him.
