Each of the five towns of Cinque Terre has a characteristic feel. Monterosso is probably the largest and most touristy of the five towns, followed by Vernazza. Both of these towns have an accessible beach. Regardless of which town you plan to stay in, or the time of year you are travelling, it is recommended that you book your accommodation in advance. The towns are small so accommodation options are limited.
Accommodation in Cinque Terre runs the gamut from small hotels to pensione, rooms and apartment rentals in Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. For the most part, people stay in a room with its own entrance that was, at some point in time, part of someone's home.