As a travel planner, I rarely recommend Paris or Rome. Instead, I swear by these 5 European gems.

Cinque Terre in Italy is my favorite European destination.

Cinque Terre is one of my favorite cities — or, more accurately, my favorite five towns.

Nestled along the Italian Riviera, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore are accessible only by train, ferry, or foot. Each town has a distinct style, and hikers flock to this region to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Vernazza, my favorite town, is the gem of this region. I love wandering the cobbled streets to shop, snack, and explore. You can also visit the Castello Doria or the church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia.

Monterosso has a popular beach club. In the summer months, tourists sunbathe on the beach or take a dip in the sea. For a history lesson, visit the remains of Castello Fieschi or the Church of St John the Baptist and the Capuchin Monastery.

In Manarola, take some time to watch the locals cliff jump into the marina. I also suggest taking a wine tour through the town to taste some of the local specialties. Be sure to try Sciacchetrà, a sweet but strong dessert wine produced in Cinque Terre.

Riomaggiore is also home to a castle and churches dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. The center of the town is great for wandering, shopping, and eating.

Corniglia is probably the quietest of the five towns. Climb the Lardarina staircase for beautiful views of the coastline. Spend some time enjoying local life, or take a boat tour to fully enjoy the area’s beauty.