May is the best month for Cinque Terre. 16–23°C, all trails open, sea warming (17–19°C, swimmable for the brave), and crowds building but not yet summer-level.
Plan this trip →Lemon terraces in bloom. Sciacchetrà (local dessert wine) tastings at every cantina. Swimming from Monterosso’s beach from mid-May. Boat tours from Vernazza (€15–25). All 5 villages at full operation.
Perfect temperature. No summer heat on exposed coastal paths. Start early (8am) for the best light and empty trails.
Shoulder-to-high. Hotels €90–170/night. La Spezia base €60–90. Book 4–6 weeks ahead.