Riomaggiore

Content:

How to get there
What to see
What to see nearby
Where to stay

This is the first of the Cinque Terre villages you will meet while coming from La Spezia. It is a colorful little village, sitting on the rocks and divided in a conventional way into three parts: the center, the station and the fishermen’s district. The whole village is connected by a tunnel, the easiest way to get around in Riomaggiore. The beach here is located in a picturesque rocky bay, though tourists don’t usually come to Riomaggiore for sunbathing, but rather to stroll along the many hiking trails (in particular the famous Sentiero dell’Amore - the Pathway of Love).

Article was last updated in April, 2024.

Fishermen district, Riomaggiore, Italy — Fishermen district

View from Montenero Sanctuary, Riomaggiore, Italy — View from Montenero Sanctuary

How to reach Riomaggiore and get around

By train

Since Riomaggiore is the first of the Cinque Terre villages, it is quicker and more convenient (only 10 minutes) to take the train from La Spezia. All prices and timetables for the train are on the page “By train”.

By boat

You can also get to Riomaggiore by boat and thus admire the beauty of the landscape directly from the sea. More information on the page “By boat”.

By foot

Two trails lead from Manarola to Riomaggiore. More information on the page “Cinque Terre Hiking Trails”.

By car

Although there is the parking (4 euro/h) at the entrance to Riomaggiore, traveling by car around the Cinque Terre is neither easy nor advisable. We advise you not to choose the car as a means of transportation.

What to see in Riomaggiore

Church of St. John the Baptist and view of the village, Riomaggiore, Italy — Church of St. John the Baptist and view of the village

Church of St. John the Baptist, Riomaggiore, Italy — Church of St. John the Baptist

The most “panoramic” point is the 1square near the semi-destroyed castle of Riomaggiore. Photos taken from up here are stunning and the walls of the fortresses, partly in ruin, and the two towers are very picturesque. In Riomaggiore the places of interest are above all the religious buildings. For example the 2Church of San Giovanni Battista and also the 3Church of Santa Maria Assunta, constructed in the 19th and 16th century respectively, that have preserved their original characteristics. Take a look at the 4Fishermen’s district as well, with the typically rocky harbor and a collection of various colorfully painted boats that the local fishermen use to venture out to sea.

What to see near Riomaggiore

Montenero Sanctuary, Riomaggiore, Italy — Montenero Sanctuary

In the Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is known for the famous 5Sentiero dell’Amore, the pathway for lovers often frequented by tourists. It is also worth visiting the Anello di Riomaggiore (Ring of Riomaggiore), a beautiful trail that connects the village to the nearby locations and goes to the 6Sanctuary of Montenero and other scenic areas.

Where to stay in Riomaggiore?

The hotels in Riomaggiore are booked well in advance, so do this in good time: it would be best to book six months prior to your trip. Below are options for accommodation in Riomaggiore that could suit you.