We chose the option that was basically transportation only and so glad we did. We wanted the freedom to do what we wanted. They drove us 2 hrs to levanto instead of la special to catch the 9.35am train to cinque terre which took maybe 7 mins. We had prebought on our own the one day train and hiking pass and didn't have to worry about validating any tickets. Was very easy to travel between the towns and mostly just asked employees there which direction the next train on the platform was going. From levanto we went to the 1st stop at Monterroso. If you want a beach this is your location. We hiked instead to Vernazza which took 2 hrs 15 mins. The steps up are challenging for a good 30 to 40 mins requiring many breaks, but once at the top the rest of the hike was very manageable. We were exhausted but loved the views. Ate lunch in vernazza and visited 4/5 towns ad.iring scenery before meeting group back at levanto at 4. Left around 4.30 with 2 hr drive.

Très sympa, Martha la guide et rodolpho le chauffeur au top. Nous n avions prit que le transport. Je recommande de partir plutôt en mai juin ou oct. Là en sept un dimanche UN MONDE. Ça gâche un peu. Et puis dommage, je pense que le tourisme de masse polu beaucoup. Façade des maison abîmé, détritus au sol...