Arcola

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Arcola's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Village
morning
:

Start your journey in Arcola by taking a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of the village. Visit the local shops and enjoy a fresh pastry from a nearby bakery. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere as you sip on a coffee while admiring the stunning views of the surrounding hills.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local trattoria, head to the nearby Fort of Sarzanello for a scenic hike. The fort offers panoramic views and rich history, perfect for those who appreciate culture and nature. Spend time exploring the trails, capturing photographs of the breathtaking landscape.

evening
:

As the sun sets, experience the local culinary delights with dinner at a popular ristorante. Enjoy traditional Ligurian dishes and perhaps a glass of local wine to complement your meal. After dinner, take a pleasant evening walk through the village to soak in the serene ambiance under the starry sky.

day 2
Visit La Spezia
morning
:

Take a short trip to La Spezia and start your day at the vibrant local market. Browse through fresh produce and handmade goods while mingling with the friendly locals. Treat yourself to a delicious breakfast of focaccia and fresh fruit.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Maritime Museum, discovering the rich naval history of the area. Following the museum visit, enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque waterfront promenade with stunning views of the harbor. Stop for a gelato to refresh yourself as you take in the coastal scenery.

evening
:

Return to Arcola and unwind at a family-owned Osteria for dinner. Relish the flavors of seasonal ingredients in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. After dinner, chat with locals and perhaps join in on a local festival if it's the right season.

day 3
Trek in Cinque Terre
morning
:

After an early breakfast, set off for a trekking adventure in the renowned Cinque Terre National Park. The morning light enhances the beauty of the colorful cliffside villages as you hike the trails. Take breaks to soak in the views and capture memorable photos of the stunning coastline.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch in one of the charming villages, such as Vernazza or Monterosso, where you can sample fresh seafood by the beach. Continue exploring the beautiful trails, gradually making your way to the next village. Enjoy the sights of terraces and vineyards while interacting with fellow hikers along the way.

evening
:

Wind down your adventure with a sunset dinner in Manarola, featuring local dishes made with freshly caught fish. Relax as the sun sets over the Mediterranean, casting a golden glow over the village. Take a post-dinner stroll to the waterfront to enjoy the serene nighttime atmosphere.

day 4
Cultural Day in Sarzana
morning
:

Journey over to the historic town of Sarzana where you can explore ancient churches and impressive architecture. Begin your day at the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, absorbing the spiritual atmosphere. Afterward, explore the charming streets and quaint shops that add to the town’s unique character.

afternoon
:

Visit the impressive Fortress of Firmafede and learn about the area's rich military history. After your exploration, choose a local café for a light lunch and enjoy people-watching as the town buzzes with afternoon energy. Engage with local artisans as you wander through some artisan shops showcasing handmade crafts.

evening
:

Return to Arcola for a relaxed dinner, perhaps trying a local pizza paired with a glass of Sangiovese. As the day comes to an end, reflect on the experiences enjoyed throughout the day. Mark the end of the evening by indulging in a tasty dessert at a gelateria.

day 5
Art and Wine Tasting
morning
:

Begin the day with a visit to a nearby vineyard for a unique wine tasting experience. Learn about the winemaking process and enjoy guided tastings of local wines. Pair your tasting with a light breakfast of local cheeses and bread fresh from the oven.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at an art gallery or studio in the area, where you can interact with local artists and learn about their crafts. Engage in a hands-on workshop if available to create your own piece of art. Wrap up the afternoon by visiting another vineyard for an additional tasting and a scenic lunch overlooking the vineyards.

evening
:

Head back to Arcola for a cozy dinner featuring local delicacies paired with your favorite wine from the day. Share stories over the meal and consider a nightcap at a local bar to further immerse yourself in the community. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as you wind down your day.

day 6
Cooking Class Experience
morning
:

Join a cooking class in the tranquil setting of a local villa where you'll learn to prepare traditional Ligurian dishes. Start the day by gathering fresh ingredients from a nearby market for your class. Engage with a professional chef as they guide you through the culinary techniques and stories behind each dish.

afternoon
:

After preparing a gourmet lunch, enjoy the fruits of your labor paired with local wines. Socialize with your fellow cooking enthusiasts, sharing tips and stories while indulging in the delicious meal. Post-lunch, you can explore the villa’s gardens and enjoy the serene countryside.

evening
:

End the day with a relaxed meal based on what you learned to cook, inviting new friends to share in the experience. Share your dining table with laughter and stories, enhancing the overall flavor of the food. As the evening rolls in, enjoy a quiet walk around the villa grounds, soaking in the beauty of the landscape.

day 7
Relax on the Beaches
morning
:

Spend a leisurely morning at one of the nearby beaches, soaking in the sun and the Mediterranean breeze. Feel free to indulge in some beach activities such as swimming or paddleboarding. Don’t forget to grab a light breakfast or coffee at a beachside café.

afternoon
:

Continue your beach day with a laid-back lunch at a beachfront restaurant, trying out regional seafood and refreshing drinks. Once refueled, relax under an umbrella or explore some more adventurous beach activities if you're feeling spirited. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as you chat with locals and other tourists.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy a beachfront dinner watching the sunset. Relish in freshly caught seafood dishes, beach cocktails, and the sounds of waves crashing. Conclude your beach day with a moonlit stroll along the shore, embracing the peaceful ambiance.

day 8
Historical Tour of Arcola
morning
:

Take a historical walking tour of Arcola to discover its rich past and cultural significance. Visit landmarks such as the Church of Sant'Andrea, where the architecture tells stories from centuries ago. Capture breathtaking photos of the ancient structures while learning richly detailed facts from your guide.

afternoon
:

After the tour, have lunch at a traditional bistro, indulging in local recipes. Spend the afternoon visiting local museums or heritage sites that showcase the evolution of the area. Engage with historians or curators to delve deeper into the history that shapes Arcola today.

evening
:

End your historical day with dinner at an upscale restaurant that offers modern interpretations of classic Ligurian dishes. Enjoy an after-dinner stroll through the village as the night unfolds, immersing yourself in the charming evening lights. Relax and reflect on all you’ve learned throughout the day.

day 9
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Embark on an outdoor adventure in the nearby Cinque Terre National Park, ready to explore its rugged trails and beautiful landscapes. Start the morning with a hike through the park, where breathtaking views await around every corner. Bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife along the way.

afternoon
:

During your hike, stop for a picnic lunch in a scenic spot, enjoying local delicacies surrounded by nature. Continue hiking through vineyards and olive groves, immersing yourself in the serenity of the surroundings. Make your way to a prefixed destination or find a quaint village to explore and recover.

evening
:

As you wrap up your day, enjoy a quiet dinner at a rustic restaurant with views of the landscape you just explored. Reflect on your adventures of the day, savoring the flavors of local cuisine. End the evening by stargazing outside, grateful for the natural beauty surrounding you.

day 10
Explore Local Markets and Artisans
morning
:

Start your day by discovering the local organic market, which sells an array of fresh produce and handmade crafts. Chat with local vendors, learning about their products and stories behind their crafts. This experience immerses you in the community's culture while preparing for a day of exploration.

afternoon
:

Visit local artisan shops to see traditional Ligurian crafts, such as pottery and textiles. Try your hand at a short workshop, where you can create a keepsake to remember your time in Arcola. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café while watching artisans at work and soaking in the vibrant surroundings.

evening
:

As the sun sets, join a community event or festival if available, enjoying the local music and dances. Indulge in street food and experience the vibrant evening atmosphere. Wrap up your trip with a farewell dinner at a favorite local spot, celebrating the experiences had during your time in Arcola.

Discover Arcola

Read more in our Arcola 2025 Travel Guide.

Arcola Travel Guide