Riomaggiore is the southernmost of the Cinque Terre villages and often the first stop (and must-see) for travelers arriving from La Spezia.
This bold, colorful town that spills down the steep hillside is an iconic vision. With a tangle of laneways, cliff-hugging buildings, and a rhythm that blends local life with lively energy, Riomaggiore is the perfect blend of character and charm.
If you want to get to know the other towns of Cinque Terre, then check out these posts:
Whether you’re staying overnight or stopping through, here’s what to know, see, and savor.
Discovering the Soul of Riomaggiore
The Old Town
Riomaggiore winds uphill from the harbor in a series of narrow alleys called caruggi. These medieval laneways lead to cafes, wine bars, artisan shops, and mosaic street art.
Sat perched above the town is a historical highlight, the Church of San Giovanni Battista, built in 1340 and still quietly anchoring the upper town with its understated Gothic facade.
Visit Cinque Terre with local insights.
We include a visit to 3 towns, suggestions for lunch, aperitivo & dinner. Also includes wine and cultural tour options, self-guided sightseeing routes, cultural and historic notes, and where to take iconic photos.
The Iconic Harbor
The harbor is the beating heart of Riomaggiore. Photographers and tourists love this spot for its view of the bright tower houses that are stacked against the terraced hillside. Fishing boats bob below, and waves splash gently on the rocks.
Things to Do in Riomaggiore
Visit the Castle
Climb up to Castello di Riomaggiore, a 13th-century stone fortress with sweeping views of the village and coastline. Originally built to protect against pirate attacks, it now serves as a peaceful lookout point, a museum, and a reminder of Riomaggiore’s strategic past.
Enjoy the Street Art and Mosaic Work
Local artist Silvio Benedetto has left a vibrant legacy of public art in Riomaggiore. Scattered throughout the old town, you'll find mosaics and wall paintings that celebrate a unique history and regional identity.
Explore the Via dell’Amore
The Via dell’Amore (Path of Love) is an easy and romantic coastal stroll connecting Riomaggiore and Manarola.
Alternatively, the more rugged cliff paths also offer incredible views for hikers willing to explore the hilly paths.
Where to Eat and Drink
Riomaggiore has a surprising choice of eateries from cheap eats to gastronomic experiences.
- Il Grottino: A traditional trattoria known for seafood, pasta, and quality service.
- Rio Bistrot: A refined experience, listed in the Michelin Guide. Expect elegant seafood dishes in a harbor setting.
- Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma: Ideal for an aperitivo with sea views, local wine, and light dishes.
You can find these and more in our restaurant listings.
Riomaggiore is known for its Sciacchetrà wine, a rare and complex dessert wine made from grapes dried on the vine. Ask for a glass, or book a local tasting to experience and learn about Cinque Terre wines.
Kayak, Hike, or Just Soak It all in
Riomaggiore is a great jumping-off point for active travelers. You can:
- Rent a kayak or join a Shark Cave Tour to discover secluded grottos and beaches
- Begin a cliffside hike along the Sentiero Azzurro toward Manarola or Corniglia
- Join a boat tour to explore Cinque Terre by sea.
Where to Stay in Riomaggiore
You won’t find any grand hotels in Riomaggiore. But it does have some excellent accommodation, suitable for every style of traveler:
Sollevante Guest House €€ Modern, comfortable, and perched above town with great views
The Sunset Line €€€€ A luxury boutique stay with private terraces and dramatic sea views
Stellio Affittacamere €€€ Elegant and centrally located near the harbor
The Energy and Vibe of Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore doesn’t try to impress with rugged perfection. It lives and breathes with real energy. It's a place where you can feel the sea in the air, hear local voices echoing through the intimate alleyways, and see beauty in both the dramatic cliffs and quiet details.
It may be the first village in your Cinque Terre adventure, but it will likely be one of the most memorable.
Looking for more Cinque Terre related content? Everything you need to know about Cinque Terre is in our blog!
Visit Cinque Terre with local insights.
We include a visit to 3 towns, suggestions for lunch, aperitivo & dinner. Also includes wine and cultural tour options, self-guided sightseeing routes, cultural and historic notes, and where to take iconic photos.
FAQ
How do I get to Riomaggiore?
Riomaggiore is easily reached by using the Cinque Terre train from La Spezia or Levanto. The ride from La Spezia takes about 10 minutes. Trains are frequent throughout the day and are the most efficient way to arrive.
During the main tourist season you can also use the local ferry service.
If you plan to arrive by car, parking is very limited. We would advise you to check with your accommodation host if they have parking available or if they can provide some options. Always check the cost!
Is it worth staying overnight in Riomaggiore?
Yes. Staying overnight lets you experience a quieter, more authentic side of the village after the crowds have left. The evenings are especially beautiful, with peaceful harbor views and relaxed aperitivo spots.
Can I walk from Riomaggiore to the other villages?
Yes. There is the famous Via dell’Amore to Manarola and the more demanding and steeper hill hike. Always check trail conditions with the National Parks office before setting off.
Where can I watch the sunset in Riomaggiore?
The best sunset views are from the harbor area or Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma, a clifftop wine bar near the train station.
Is Riomaggiore good for swimming?
It is ok for swimming, but if you prefer a sandy beach, then Portovenere, Levanto, or Monterosso are much bigger and more suitable. Riomaggiore has a small rocky beach south-east of the harbor. The harbor is also a popular swimming spot. Just be mindful of boat traffic, and it’s a good idea to wear protective water shoes.
Is Riomaggiore suitable for wheelchairs and strollers?
Not really. Riomaggiore is probably the least accessible of the towns for wheelchairs and strollers. There are dozens of stairs leading up from the harbor, and most of the accommodations don’t have elevators.
Vernazza, Manarola, and Monterosso are more accessible. Corniglia also has steep stairs from the train station, but there is also a local shuttle bus and routes through the small town that don’t involve stairs.
