Curious to visit the Cinque Terre? Wondering what they are and where they are located? Would you like to join a cooking class in the region where the authentic pesto sauce was born?

Let’s dive into the Cinque Terre, following a food and storytelling journey inspired by the Disney-Pixar movie “Luca”, and discover its subtle connections with the LGBTQ+ community.

Five small villages overlooking the Ligurian Sea, in Northern Italy, provided the inspirational backdrop for the delicate and touching film Luca, which beautifully showcases the essence of the Cinque Terre.

The movie is set in a fictional seaside hamlet called Portorosso, a name that clearly echoes Monterosso, one of the five colorful villages. In reality, Portorosso is a blend of landscapes and atmospheres inspired by Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, Riomaggiore, and Corniglia—the iconic Five Villages.

The film’s director, Enrico Casarosa, conveys a powerful and universal message: love yourself for who you are, embrace your identity, and enjoy life. The scenery—reminiscent of small piazzas, narrow cobblestone streets, and pastel-colored houses—merges seamlessly with the joyful journey of Luca and Alberto, two young sea monsters who transform into humans. Their desire to explore the land leads them to unexpected adventures, true friendship, and a tender form of love.

Exploring the Cinque Terre

Visiting the Cinque Terre means traveling by train aboard the Cinque Terre Express and literally walking in Luca’s footsteps. The train connects the villages in just 5 to 10 minutes each, running from Levanto to La Spezia and back.

The best time to visit is between March and October, when the train operates regularly. During the quieter months, it is still possible to explore the area on foot via the scenic coastal hiking paths linking the villages.

What We Offer

• A full-day private tour with a personal guide, traveling from village to village and discovering the real places that inspired Luca.
  You will hop on and off the train, visit all five villages, explore artisan shops, meet local fishermen, and enjoy a true taste of the Mediterranean slow life.

• In the movie, Luca enjoys “trenette al pesto”—and so will you.
  Your highlight experience will be a private cooking class in Riomaggiore, hosted in a local home. You will learn how to prepare authentic pesto using a marble mortar, along with fresh handmade pasta.

  Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a glass of Italian Prosecco, followed by a tasting of local Cinque Terre wine.

  And yes—the chef’s name is Luca.
  But that’s not the only surprise… we’ll keep one delightful secret until you meet him in person.