Named for the five towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, this rugged coastal portion of the Italian Riviera is so beautiful that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since cars are not allowed, the only access to Cinque Terre is by local trains, by ferry or by walking along the spectacular trails that connect the towns. The pace is wonderfully slow here, with swimming, hiking, beach-going, dining and exploring the magnificent old villages the main pastimes.