Five coastal villages nestled dramatically into the northern Italian coastline make up the Cinque Terre. It's easy to see why this area draws such tourism with its colorful towns, terraced hills, and vineyards that sweep steeply to the sea below. The entire area is so unique that it was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as a national park. Get a Cinque Terre Card and do the 11 km walk from Monterosso al Mare to Riomaggiore or if it's a bit too hot, take the train. The most challenging section is the trek between Monterosso and Vernassa and the hikes become easier as you make your way south. Do come early as the tour busses and masses of people hiking along can make the experience feel like you're at a theme park instead of a quaint little Italian village.
