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CINQUE TERRE & LIGURIA

Genoa, Portofino, Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and more

TUSCANY

CINQUE TERRE

SICILY

NAPLES & AMALFI

PUGLIA

VENICE CARNIVAL

Village Hopping in Cinque Terre & Liguria.

Join our 6-day Cinque Terre & Liguria Photo Tour and Cultural Adventure for a journey along the northwest coast of Italy filled with colorful villages, charismatic people, and charming coastal life. The southern Ligurian coast, better known as the Riviera di Levante, boasts some of the most picturesque landscapes in Italy, with deep blue and tranquil waters and tiny communes nestled between dramatic jagged cliff faces.

Our photo trip starts in the region’s capital city of Genoa. From the beginning of the 12th century, Genoa’s great ship-owning families made the city into a Mediterranean power, touching every ocean around the globe, and was once considered one of the maritime capitals of the world. Our lenses will encapsulate the visual tales of the city’s past, where trade flourished and wealth abounded.

We often hop from village to village via boat, allowing us to photograph these locations from different perspectives, whether at sea or on dry land. The main chunk of our trip will be dedicated to visiting each of the five villages that make up Cinque Terre: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Prepare for clusters of brightly colored communes that seem to have sprung up from the sheer cliffs, with rolling verdant hills and vineyards beckoning in the distance.

As boats bob along the marinas’ still waters and lines of laundry billow in the gentle winds, we will attempt to encapsulate this region’s soft and timeless allure. As the sun sets, Liguria’s villages light up with glowing streetlights and the twinkling of stars above, creating the most romantic of atmospheres where we will revel in producing long-exposure shots of their golden reflections rippling in the midnight waters. A trip to Italy would not be complete without sampling the regional cuisine, from mouthwatering seafood and homemade pasta to its specialty – pesto, all of which you will be tucking into in charming trattorias and rustic restaurants.

Each village here, has its own unique charm to capture. Snap Monterosso’s sunbathers lounging under orange and turquoise striped umbrellas on the local seafront, or head to the San Giovanni Battista church with its equally stripey black and white gothic facade. In Riomaggiore, buildings cascade down the hillside to meet the sea, while just above the humble harbor of Vernazza, often considered the most photogenic of the Cinque Terre villages, perches a centuries-old belltower that stands proudly as a village guardian.

This 6-day Cinque Terre photography tour is more than just a quest to capture exceptional images; it’s an invitation to elevate your craft and see the world through a new lens. Our expert photographer guides will not only lead you to the most photogenic locations under the best light but also help you master the art of visual storytelling. Along the way, you’ll refine your camera techniques and discover how to navigate the challenges of photographing in a foreign land. You’ll also learn to anticipate a scene before capturing the decisive moment, elevating ordinary photos into extraordinary works of art.

Join us for spirited discussions, enriching camaraderie, and moments of unforgettable inspiration. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline, absorbing yourself in village life, or simply basking in Mediterranean bliss, Cinque Terre & Liguria promises an Italian treasure trove of photographic memories. Your visual odyssey starts here!

Our photo trip starts in the region’s capital city of Genoa. From the beginning of the 12th century, Genoa’s great ship-owning families made the city into a Mediterranean power, touching every ocean around the globe, and was once considered one of the maritime capitals of the world. Our lenses will encapsulate the visual tales of the city’s past, where trade flourished and wealth abounded.

We often hop from village to village via boat, allowing us to photograph these locations from different perspectives, whether at sea or on dry land. The main chunk of our trip will be dedicated to visiting each of the five villages that make up Cinque Terre: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Prepare for clusters of brightly colored communes that seem to have sprung up from the sheer cliffs, with rolling verdant hills and vineyards beckoning in the distance.

As boats bob along the marinas’ still waters and lines of laundry billow in the gentle winds, we will attempt to encapsulate this region’s soft and timeless allure. As the sun sets, Liguria’s villages light up with glowing streetlights and the twinkling of stars above, creating the most romantic of atmospheres where we will revel in producing long-exposure shots of their golden reflections rippling in the midnight waters. A trip to Italy would not be complete without sampling the regional cuisine, from mouthwatering seafood and homemade pasta to its specialty – pesto, all of which you will be tucking into in charming trattorias and rustic restaurants.

Each village here, has its own unique charm to capture. Snap Monterosso’s sunbathers lounging under orange and turquoise striped umbrellas on the local seafront, or head to the San Giovanni Battista church with its equally stripey black and white gothic facade. In Riomaggiore, buildings cascade down the hillside to meet the sea, while just above the humble harbor of Vernazza, often considered the most photogenic of the Cinque Terre villages, perches a centuries-old belltower that stands proudly as a village guardian.

This 6-day Cinque Terre photography tour is more than just a quest to capture exceptional images; it’s an invitation to elevate your craft and see the world through a new lens. Our expert photographer guides will not only lead you to the most photogenic locations under the best light but also help you master the art of visual storytelling. Along the way, you’ll refine your camera techniques and discover how to navigate the challenges of photographing in a foreign land. You’ll also learn to anticipate a scene before capturing the decisive moment, elevating ordinary photos into extraordinary works of art.

Join us for spirited discussions, enriching camaraderie, and moments of unforgettable inspiration. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline, absorbing yourself in village life, or simply basking in Mediterranean bliss, Cinque Terre & Liguria promises an Italian treasure trove of photographic memories. Your visual odyssey starts here!

Group Size

4-6 Guests

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast, and semi-pro photographers
  • All cameras and camera phones are welcome
  • Busy schedule
  • Travel by car, minibus, train, and ferry
  • Considerable elevation changes and lots of walking
  • Non-photographers are also welcome

Weather | Sun

April/May – Temps 67/51 F | 19/11 C  Sunrise 6:30 | Sunset 8:14 (20:14)

Includes

  • 6 Days
  • Travel, landscape, architecture, seascape, and people photography
  • Professional photographer | Guide
  • Photo walks & discussions
  • Small group size (4-6 guests)
  • Premium hotels
  • Breakfasts
  • 2 Dinners
  • Local transportation

Travel Information

Arrival Airport: Genoa, Italy (GOA) – Transfer time: 30 minutes.
Departure Airport: Pisa, Italy (PSA) – Transfer time by train: 1 hour.
You may also select Milan Malpensa, Italy (MXP) – Transfer time by train: 2+ hours.
Our adventure begins at 11 AM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day.

Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. We suggest you use iVisa.com. They are excellent at providing quick service for obtaining travel visas.

Accommodations

Genoa – Melia Genova, Bristol Palace Hotel, NH Marina, or similar
Santa Margherita or Rapallo – Grand Hotel Miramare, Hotel Metropole, Grand Bristol Resort & Spa, or similar
Monterosso (or La Spezia) – Punta Mesco Hotel, Hotel Firenze E Continentale, NH La Spezia, or similar

Helpful Links

> How to Visit Cinque Terre
> Cinque Terre by Train: A Photographer’s Love Letter After 7 Visits

Cinque Terre Prices & Dates

Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Roman Martin

April 26 – May 1, 2026
April 25 – 30, 2027

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

ITINERARY

CINQUE TERRE & LIGURIA PHOTO TOUR – 6 DAYS

Day 1 | Genoa

We’ll meet at our hotel in Genoa, the historic port city that has welcomed travelers and traders for centuries along the Ligurian Sea.

Our journey begins with an introduction to PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles to Great Photography,” along with our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic approach. During a relaxed group lunch, we’ll also have informal conversations about what each guest hopes to achieve with their photography—exploring personal subjects, styles, and creative techniques.

Afterward, we’ll head out for a pleasant afternoon of photography through the winding streets and lively squares of Genoa. From its atmospheric alleyways to its historic harbor, this old yet endlessly charming city offers wonderful opportunities to capture authentic Italian life.

In the evening, we’ll gather for our “Welcome Dinner”, celebrating the beginning of the adventure in the candlelit caverns of a hidden Italian restaurant tucked along one of Genoa’s narrow side streets. (D)

Day 2 | Santa Margherita - Portofino - San Fruttuoso

We’ll depart Genoa in the morning by train, traveling along the beautiful Ligurian coastline to the charming seaside town of Santa Margherita Ligure, where we will be based for the next two days.

Once settled, we’ll board a ferry and set out across the Ligurian Sea to explore the romantic fishing village of Portofino; a destination that is perhaps best experienced from the water. From our vantage point at sea, we’ll have wonderful photographic opportunities capturing the harbor’s elegant curve, pastel-colored waterfront, and the lush hillsides that rise behind the village.

After spending time photographing and exploring Portofino, we’ll enjoy lunch overlooking the harbor before returning by ferry to Santa Margherita Ligure. In the evening, we’ll gather for dinner and a relaxed night in this lovely coastal town. (B)

Day 3 | Camogli - Santa Margherita Ligure

In the morning, we’ll take a short ride across the Portofino Peninsula to the charming seaside village of Camogli. During the late Middle Ages, Camogli grew into an important maritime port. At the height of its prosperity, its fleet included hundreds of tall ships, earning the town the poetic nickname “the city of a thousand white sails.” Today, its colorful harbor, historic seafront buildings, and lively waterfront create a wonderful setting for photography.

In the evening, we will return to explore the elegant coastal town of Santa Margherita Ligure. As the sun will set over the Ligurian Sea, we’ll capture the changing light with long exposures, followed by twilight and night photography along the waterfront, when the harbor lights reflect beautifully across the calm evening water. (B)

Day 4 | La Spezia - Portovenere - Vernazza

On day four, we’ll set out early to capture the soft glow of the morning light. After breakfast, we’ll check out of our hotel in Santa Margherita Ligure and begin our journey toward the renowned Cinque Terre. Traveling by train, we will continue to La Spezia, where we’ll be based for the remainder of our time exploring this spectacular coastline. Our accommodation will be conveniently located near the train station in La Spezia, offering easy access to both the lively character of the city and the nearby villages of Cinque Terre.

After settling in, we’ll head out to visit the charming seaside village of Portovenere, traveling either by boat or bus, where we’ll enjoy lunch overlooking the harbor. Dramatically positioned at the foot of rugged cliffs along the Gulf of La Spezia, Portovenere is a historic fishing village filled with character. Behind its colorful harborfront, narrow medieval lanes wind upward toward the striking Church of San Pietro, perched on a rocky promontory above the sea, and a historic hilltop castle watching over the coastline.

Later, we’ll take a scenic boat tour along the coast to admire the villages of Cinque Terre from the water; one of the most beautiful perspectives of this UNESCO–listed landscape.

As evening falls, we’ll make our way to the picturesque village of Vernazza, where we’ll photograph its iconic harbor and colorful houses glowing under the night lights; one of the most magical scenes along the Ligurian coast. (B)

Day 5 | Riomaggiore - Vernazza - Manarola

After breakfast, we’ll set out early and take the train to explore the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, beginning with Riomaggiore. With its colorful houses cascading down steep cliffs toward the sea, this lively fishing village offers wonderful opportunities for both street and coastal photography.

From Riomaggiore, we will continue on to Vernazza, where we’ll pause for lunch. Often considered the most charming of the five villages, Vernazza is known for its small harbor, medieval fortress, and narrow lanes filled with character. We’ll spend time wandering its historic streets and photographing the beautiful harbor framed by pastel-colored buildings.

Later in the day, we’ll gather for a memorable “Farewell Dinner” overlooking the sea in the beautiful village of Manarola. It will be a special evening filled with wonderful food, laughter, and stories as we reflect on the highlights of our journey together.

After dinner, we’ll photograph the sunset as it settles over Manarola. This magical setting offers a perfect opportunity to set up tripods and practice low-light and long-exposure photography as the village lights begin to glow against the deepening twilight sky. Finally, we’ll take the last train back to La Spezia and rest up for our final day. (B) (D)

Day 6 | La Spezia

On day six, we will gather for our final morning together in La Spezia. Over breakfast, we’ll enjoy a relaxed group discussion as we review our favorite photographs from the past week, share reflections from the journey, and exchange contact information before saying our farewells.

From La Spezia it’s easy to continue your travels by train to some of Italy’s most iconic destinations, including Pisa, Florence, Milan, and Genoa.

If your schedule allows, we warmly encourage you to extend your stay in the beautiful villages of Cinque Terre or continue exploring other corners of Italy—making full use of the creative techniques and new ways of seeing you’ve developed throughout this unforgettable Photo Workshop Adventure. (B)

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

 

May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

 

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS

Pricing

All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.

Private Guided Adventures

We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.

Travel Insurance

We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.

The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.

Rewards Program

Start earning points today and SAVE up to $750 off a future trip!

Register for one of our photo adventures and begin earning points today!

How the program works

For every photo tour reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points, which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save on future trips. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.

ORANGE REWARDS

On most Photo Tours and Adventures, you earn 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately with your first trip. A $11,995 spend earns 47,980 points with a value of $480 USD.

VIP GUESTS

VIP Guests (guests who have registered for eight or more trips) begin earning double points, or eight points, for every dollar spent. A $11,995 spend earns 95,960 points with a value of $960 USD.

Additional VIP Benefits:

  • Advance notification of upcoming adventures and special offers
  • Receive complimentary airport transfers at certain destinations

Redeeming your points

Redeeming your points couldn't be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip (scheduled to depart before your points expire), register and pay your deposit. When you pay your balance, you'll be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.

*Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future. Points are awarded only after a trip is completed. Points expire after two years if no new trip is booked and paid for in your account. Points cannot be exchanged for cash and have no cash value. Points cannot be transferred or gifted. Points cannot be applied to any discounted photo adventures, and discounted photo adventures cannot earn points. Points and redeeming points are only available for 5-day or longer photo tours. Points and points redemption are unavailable on private photo tours, photo day tours, low-cost 4-day or less photo tours, online lectures, tutorials, PWA products, and NYC photo tours. 

THINK ORANGE Magazine

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

Gift Cards

Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo  Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.