Inside the Italian towns that inspired a top Disney movie – and flights are just £21

THERE IS a place in Italy that has inspired a top Disney film – and flights are only £21.
The Italian Riviera is home to colorful buildings, stunning beaches and crystal clear waters.
The Cinque Terre, a group of five towns on the Italian Riviera, served as inspiration for the landscapes and locations featured in the hit Disney film Luca.
Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore were the inspiration for the fictional town of Portorosso in the film.
From the pebbly beaches and cobbled streets to the luxurious waters, the resemblance between fact and fiction is easy to see.
This is because the film’s director, Enrico Casarosa, grew up in the region and was inspired by his childhood visits to the Italian coast.
For anyone wanting to be a part of the Disney magic, the easiest way to reach the Cinque Terre is via Genoa – the region’s capital.
Both Ryanair and British Airways have direct flights to Genoa and the flights cost £21 for a one-way ticket.
The town of Vernazza is 90 minutes by car from Genoa, but the place can also be reached by taking the train from Genoa to Vernazza.
We found return tickets for £20 for a full paying adult.
Many holidaymakers flock to the five cities for a day trip from nearby towns such as La Spezia or Pisa.
The five cities are well connected by a local transport network and are only a few minutes apart.
If you only have one day to visit the five cities, your best bet is to buy the Cinque Terre Train Card.
The ticket costs €18.20 (£15.80) for a full-paying adult and passengers can board multiple services throughout the day.
For holidaymakers with a little more time, there is also the option of hiking the coastal path between the five cities.
While part of the trek is free, holidaymakers must purchase the Cinque Terre Trekking Card for €7.50 (£6.52).
As well as strolling between the five towns, visitors can swim and sunbathe at one of the many beaches along the coast.
Fegina Beach in Monterosso is arguably the best beach among the five cities.
Bright orange parasols and sun loungers can be hired for around £20 per person.
Alternatively, there are several public beaches just a 10-minute walk away.
Other activities include pesto-making classes and sunset cruises of the five cities.
However, those looking to spend several days in the Cinque Terre will be pleased to know that there are a range of accommodation options, including hotels and hostels.
And this isn’t the only place in Europe that has inspired a hit Disney film.


In a landlocked European country, there are several fairytale castles that are compared to Disney movies.
Meanwhile, a person lives in a quaint village that served as the inspiration for a famous film.