Not you, though! These flights to Genoa mean you'll be sauntering through Cinque Terre's hilltops, soaking up the last of September's heat faster than you can say: "thanks-flight finders-at-JFC-for-making-my-italian-love-affair-come-true-I'm sooooo-glad-I-signed-up-for-premium"

Flight Finder and Milanese local, Fran, knows the Riviera like the back of her hand — so we asked her for her best kept secrets. Her tips? As authentic as nonna's homemade limoncello. 

• Skip the train, take the boat: The Cinque Terre train ticket is now €20 for 10 minutes of riding? Hard pass. Instead, book a small boat tour in a group (~€80, food & drinks included). You’ll see all five villages from the water, swim in secret spots, and avoid the sweaty crowds. Bonus: Some boats might drop you in Monterosso if you ask nicely. 

• Genova (Genoa) = your gateway to Portofino and Cinque Terre: Pro tip? Stop in Sestri Levante—it’s adorable, way cheaper for stays, and a great pit stop before the tourist madness. Better yet, spend an afternoon among Genova's colorful chaos first. Stroll the Nervi promenade, sneak into the botanical gardens or scour the streets searching for the best granita siciliana. 

• Save on accommodation by booking somewhere on the outskirts of Cinque Terre: We stayed in Framura, at this beautiful little hostel, for half the cost!

• Secret bike path that only locals know: Shhh… there’s a bike path near Cinque Terre (Levanto → Bonassola) that’s stupidly pretty, shaded, and stays cool even in a heatwave. Why is this not viral yet?!

• Rent a car, drive to Langhe! Think Tuscany's landscapes sans tourists - and even better wine.