Riomaggiore is the first Cinque Terre village when you arrive from La Spezia. This Riomaggiore Cinque Terre village has tall painted houses above a small harbour. Steep alleys cut between the buildings. The sea feels close in almost every street.
This friendly guide helps you decide if Riomaggiore should be your base or a day trip. You will see what to do, how to get there, where to swim, and how to plan clear days on this part of the Ligurian coast.
Where is Riomaggiore and what is it like?
Riomaggiore sits in eastern Liguria, in north west Italy. It is one of the five villages of Cinque Terre National Park. The village fills a rocky ravine that opens onto a narrow harbour and a rocky beach.
Cars stay outside the old centre. Inside you walk everywhere. There are staircases instead of long streets. Houses seem stacked on top of each other. It feels like a small town but with a very vertical shape.
Compared with some of the other villages, Riomaggiore has a slightly livelier evening scene. Small wine bars and aperitivo terraces stay open, and people wander the lanes until late. It still feels relaxed rather than wild.
Is Riomaggiore the right base for your trip?
Riomaggiore suits many types of visitors. Still, it is not perfect for everyone. A clear picture helps before you book.
Riomaggiore can be a good base if you want:
Very easy access from La Spezia by train
A classic Cinque Terre harbour view with boats and cliffs
Short train rides to the other four villages
A starting point for the famous Via dell Amore path
A compact village with some nightlife, but no big clubs
It may be less ideal if you:
Have serious mobility problems and cannot manage many stairs
Need a long sandy beach right in the village
Want a very quiet, almost silent base in the evenings
If these points match your style, Riomaggiore is a strong choice for your Cinque Terre holiday.
How to get to RiomaggioreÂ
By train
For most visitors the train is the best way to reach Riomaggiore village. Regional trains run between La Spezia, the five villages and Levanto. Riomaggiore is usually the first stop after La Spezia when you head north.
In the main season, Cinque Terre Express trains run very often. You can jump on and off between the villages. This makes it easy to base in one place and explore the others.
Many travellers buy a Cinque Terre Card that covers trains and some trails. There are trekking only and train plus trekking versions, and inclusions can change slightly by season. The train version includes unlimited regional train rides between La Spezia and Levanto. It also includes access to the paid coastal paths and some park services. You can usually buy the card online, at park welcome centres, or at stations.
By car
Driving right into Riomaggiore is not recommended. The old core is largely car free. There is a paid parking area higher above the village. From there you walk down into the centre.
The road into Cinque Terre is narrow and winding. If you plan a wider Liguria or Tuscany road trip, it often works well to park once and then use trains inside the national park.
By boat
In good weather, boats connect Riomaggiore with other Cinque Terre villages and with some nearby ports. Ferries offer wide views of the cliffs and vineyards. They feel more relaxed than busy trains, especially in high summer.
Sea services can pause in rough conditions. Check the schedule and the flags at the harbour before you plan a full boat day.
Best things to do in Riomaggiore Cinque Terre
Explore the historic lanes
The heart of Riomaggiore village climbs both sides of the valley. A main street runs down towards the sea. Narrow side alleys rise steeply between tall houses.
Walk slowly. Look at the shutters, arches and tiny details around each door. Many houses still belong to local families. Others hold apartments and guesthouses.
Give yourself time to:
Stroll from the upper part of the village down to the harbour
Explore the side staircases and short alleys
Stop for coffee or gelato and watch people pass
The lanes are not large. You can see the main part in under an hour. Yet the mood changes with the light. Morning feels different from evening.
Harbour and sunset views
The little harbour is the famous view of Riomaggiore Italy. Boats sit in the water and on ramps. Tall houses frame the cove. The open sea spreads beyond the rocks.
Come here at least twice. Once in daylight. Once at sunset.
During the day you see bright colours and blue water. In the evening the sky glows and the houses turn warm. People sit on the rocks with cameras, drinks and snacks. On some days waves crash below.
Wear solid shoes if you climb over the boulders. Surfaces can be uneven and slippery.
Castle and churches above the village
Above the houses you find more quiet spots and wide views.
The small castle of Riomaggiore stands on a hill above the centre. It dates back to the medieval period. Today it offers terraces and a view over the harbour and the coast.
Nearby you can visit the parish church of San Giovanni Battista. It has a striped stone facade and a rose window. Inside you see a calm nave and simple details.
There are also smaller oratories and chapels hidden in the lanes. They add to the sense of history in a very compact area.
Walking and hiking from Riomaggiore
Via dell Amore from Riomaggiore to Manarola
The most famous path near Riomaggiore is the Via dell Amore. This short walk links the village with Manarola along the cliffs.
The path is paved and mostly flat. It hangs above the sea with open views. It suits most visitors who can walk at a gentle pace.
The route recently reopened after many years of closure. Access now follows clear rules:
Entry is from the Riomaggiore side
The path is one way from Riomaggiore to Manarola
You must reserve a 30 minute time slot
Numbers are limited in each slot
You need a valid ticket and usually a Cinque Terre Card
Because spaces are limited, it is smart to book in advance. This is especially true in summer and on weekends.
The walk itself is not long. Expect to spend around half an hour on the path. You will likely spend more time stopping for photos.
Alternative trails and the Riomaggiore ring
If Via dell Amore is fully booked, you still have other options.
One choice is the higher route between Riomaggiore and Manarola. This is sometimes called Via Beccara. It climbs steeply above both villages. It is a proper hike with many steps rather than a gentle stroll.
Another option is the Riomaggiore ring and the routes to the Sanctuary of Madonna di Montenero. From just above the village you can follow a marked path to the sanctuary. The 593V trail climbs around 300 metres in height. The one way walk takes about 50 to 60 minutes for most people.
At the top you find a peaceful church and a terrace with a wide view. You can see across the Cinque Terre coast and deep into the sea.
These walks suit visitors who want more exercise and fewer crowds. Bring water, sun protection and proper shoes.
Trail openings can change with weather or maintenance. Always check the Cinque Terre National Park website or local boards before a longer hike.
Beaches and swimming near Riomaggiore village
Riomaggiore does not have a long sandy beach. Still, you can swim here and enjoy the sea.
Close to the harbour there is a small rocky area often called La Fossola. The shore is made of stones and boulders. The water is deep and very clear.
In summer many people come here for a refreshing dip. Water shoes help a lot on the rocks. Always check local signs before you enter the water. Conditions can change and access rules may vary.
If you want a classic sandy beach, take the train to Monterosso al Mare. That village has the longest beach in Cinque Terre, with sunbeds and umbrellas. You can easily visit for half a day and then return to Riomaggiore by train.
Some visitors also join boat trips that include a swimming stop. This can be a comfortable way to enjoy the sea without searching for space on the shore.
Where to stay in RiomaggioreÂ
Accommodation in Riomaggiore Liguria is mostly small scale. You find guesthouses, apartments and little hotels. Many are inside old houses that have been adapted over time.
When you choose a place, think about these points:
How many steps are there from the station or main street
Whether someone can help with luggage
How sensitive you are to noise at night
Whether you prefer a sea view or a quieter back lane
Common areas to stay include:
Near the harbour. Great for sunset and atmosphere. Expect more evening activity and more stairs.
Middle of the village. A balance of access and calm. Lanes here often feel very local.
Upper streets near the parking area. Quieter at night, easier for arrival by car, but further from the sea.
For two or three nights, many visitors choose a mid level spot. This keeps walks shorter while avoiding the busiest corners.
Book early for summer and for weekends in spring and autumn. Many properties are small and fill quickly.
Top Rated Hotels in Riomaggiore
🔍Cloud Nine – 9.8/10 (27 reviews)
Short description: Boutique-style hilltop hotel with bright, modern rooms overlooking Riomaggiore’s colorful village and the sea. Rooms come with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, tea/coffee maker and many have sea views plus access to a shared sun terrace. Best for couples and style-focused travelers who want a quiet, upscale base within walking distance of the beach.
Neighborhood/landmark: Upper Riomaggiore, about 200 m from the village center and around 7 minutes’ walk to Riomaggiore Beach.
Key facilities (shown): Private parking, free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, sun terrace.
Why it stands out: Exceptional rating, contemporary design and big village/sea views in a very quiet spot above the main lanes.
🔍Hotel Due Gemelli – 8.4/10 (1,331 reviews)
Short description: Classic family-run hotel set among pines and vineyards on the panoramic coastal road above Riomaggiore. All rooms have balconies with sea views, simple decor and private bathrooms; a continental buffet breakfast is served each morning. Best for drivers and couples who want quiet, views and parking away from the crowds.
Neighborhood/landmark: Hillside location on Via Litoranea (SP370), about 5 km from Riomaggiore train station and 9 km from La Spezia.
Key facilities (shown): Free private parking, free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, room service, bar.
Why it stands out: Wide sea views from balconies and terrace plus free parking make it a strong choice for road-trip itineraries in Cinque Terre.
🔍Hotel Villa Argentina – 8.0/10 (1,286 reviews)
Short description: Mid-range hotel on the upper slope of Riomaggiore with simple, comfortable rooms; some offer small terraces or balconies with Ligurian Sea views. Guests praise the buffet breakfast and friendly staff, and there are various room and apartment options (including separate-building apartments for families or groups).
Neighborhood/landmark: Via De Gasperi in Riomaggiore, about 10 minutes’ walk down to Riomaggiore train station and the lower village. Within Cinque Terre National Park.
Key facilities (shown): Private parking, free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, bar, “very good” breakfast.
Why it stands out: Good value hotel with parking and breakfast in a convenient upper-village location, with sea-view rooms and family-friendly apartment options.
🔍Locanda Ca Dei Duxi – 7.9/10 (729 reviews)
Short description: Atmospheric inn set in a 15th-century building right on Via Colombo, Riomaggiore’s main street. Rooms are simple but characterful, with stone walls and wooden ceilings in some areas; the historic former wine cellar is now used as the breakfast room. Best for couples and travelers who want a traditional, village-centre feel.
Neighborhood/landmark: Central Riomaggiore, around 5 minutes’ walk to both the sea and the train station; close to shops, bars and restaurants.
Key facilities (shown): Private parking, non-smoking rooms, on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi rated very highly by guests.
Why it stands out: Historic Ligurian character and a prime main-street location make it ideal if you want to step straight into village life.
🔍Hotel La Zorza – 7.3/10 (547 reviews)
Short description: Small, simple hotel in a refurbished 15th-century building, just steps from the tunnel to the station and close to the harbor. Rooms are compact but comfortable, with basic amenities and a cozy feel, suiting travelers who prioritize location over luxury.
Neighborhood/landmark: Via Colombo 231 in central Riomaggiore, very close to Riomaggiore Station and a short walk to the seafront and boat departures.
Key facilities (shown): Non-smoking rooms, bar, breakfast, free Wi-Fi (rated 10.0 by guests).
Why it stands out: Excellent central location near both the station and the sea, perfect for short stays and travelers moving around Cinque Terre by train.
Top Rated B&B in Riomaggiore
🔍The Sunset Line – 9.8/10 (388 reviews)
Short description: Upscale guest house perched above Riomaggiore with panoramic sea and village views. Elegant, modern rooms come with air-conditioning, private bathrooms and terraces or balconies, some with hot tub access. Best for couples and honeymooners who want views, privacy and a boutique feel while still being close to the beach.
Neighborhood/landmark: Upper Riomaggiore, about 650 ft from the village centre and roughly an 8-minute walk down to Riomaggiore Beach in Cinque Terre National Park.
Key facilities (shown): Private parking, free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, hot tub/Jacuzzi, open-air bath, massage services, sun terrace.
Why it stands out: Exceptional guest rating, designer interiors and big private terraces with sunset views make it one of the most sought-after B&B-style stays in Riomaggiore.
🔍Affittacamere Le Giare – 9.4/10 (501 reviews)
Short description: Contemporary guest house in a quiet lane just above Riomaggiore’s main street. Bright, tiled rooms feature air-conditioning, quality linens and modern bathrooms; several offer balconies or a terrace with postcard sea and village views. Self-service breakfast items are provided in the room, making mornings easy. Best for couples and friends who want comfort, views and a relaxed base away from the busiest lanes.
Neighborhood/landmark: Central Riomaggiore, around 50 yards from the village centre, about 550 m from Riomaggiore train station and roughly 5 minutes’ walk to Riomaggiore Beach.
Key facilities (shown): Free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, tea/coffee maker in all rooms; hiking, walking tours and cooking classes offered or arranged.
Why it stands out: Combines quiet, nearly-central location with big balcony and terrace views and consistently praised hospitality and cleanliness.
🔍AWroom – 9.5/10 (414 reviews)
Short description: Stylish guest house with homey, apartment-style rooms that include kitchenettes and a washing machine, which is rare in Cinque Terre. Air-conditioned rooms look onto a small garden or village views and come with comfy beds and thoughtful touches like beach towels and stocked breakfast items. Best for couples or small families who want extra space and light self-catering options.
Neighborhood/landmark: Very central Riomaggiore, about 100 yards from the village centre and around 200 yards from Riomaggiore Beach, close to the elevator up from the station.
Key facilities (shown): Free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, garden and patio, continental or buffet breakfast.
Why it stands out: High scores across the board, plus kitchen and laundry facilities, make it ideal for longer or more independent stays in Riomaggiore.
🔍Ai Pesci Room Rental – 9.4/10 (229 reviews)
Short description: Intimate sea-view B&B set in Riomaggiore within the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre National Park. Rooms are air-conditioned with flat-screen TVs, and many open to balconies looking straight over the harbour and coastline; guests love the welcome snacks and drinks. Best for couples who want a romantic front-row view of the sea and easy access to the waterfront.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Riomaggiore’s harbour and rocky shoreline, just a short walk from the beach and the centre’s bars and restaurants.
Key facilities (shown): Air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV in all rooms; some rooms with balcony and panoramic sea view, complimentary drinks and snacks.
Why it stands out: Combines one of the best direct sea views in the village with a cosy, personal feel and consistently praised little extras from the hosts.
🔍Scorci Di Mare – 9.3/10 (975 reviews)
Short description: Historic 14th-century building converted into sea-view rooms and apartments right by Riomaggiore’s tiny harbour. Interiors mix exposed beams and tiled floors with modern furnishings; many units have terraces or windows opening directly over the water. Best for couples, friends or families who want an atmospheric base in the most scenic part of the village.
Neighborhood/landmark: On Via San Giacomo, essentially on the harbourfront, about 165 ft from Riomaggiore’s rocky coast and roughly 350 ft from both the beach and the village centre.
Key facilities (shown): Private parking in a designated area above the traffic-restricted centre, free Wi-Fi, beachfront location, non-smoking rooms, tea/coffee maker in all rooms; activities like hiking, snorkeling, diving, canoeing and local tours can be arranged.
Why it stands out: Iconic harbour views, characterful rooms and one of the best-rated locations in all of Cinque Terre make it a classic Riomaggiore choice.
Top Rated Apartments in Riomaggiore
🔍The Upper House – 9.7/10 (139 reviews)
Short description: Elegant, newly renovated apartment complex on Via De Gasperi with garden and terraces overlooking the hills and village. Rooms and the apartment are modern, hotel-style and very comfortable, with strong reviews for cleanliness and the helpful host. Best for couples and small families who want a quiet, upscale base with great views.
Neighborhood/landmark: Upper Riomaggiore, about 200 m from the village centre and roughly 350 yards from Riomaggiore Beach.
Key facilities (shown): Private parking, free Wi-Fi, kitchen in apartment units, garden, terrace, balcony, air-conditioning, non-smoking rooms, family rooms.
Why it stands out: Exceptional guest score plus rare on-site parking and modern design in a quiet but central hillside spot with sea and village views.
🔍Giadera penthouse 5terreparco – 9.4/10 (147 reviews)
Short description: Spacious two-bedroom penthouse apartment with a separate living room, large balcony and terrace with wide sea views. Interiors are home-like and practical, ideal for families or two couples who want extra space and a scenic outdoor area.
Neighborhood/landmark: Riomaggiore village, around a four-minute walk to Riomaggiore Beach and close to the historic centre and Borgo Storico.
Key facilities (shown): Free Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchenette, washing machine, dishwasher, terrace, balcony, TV, private bathroom.
Why it stands out: Combines generous indoor space with big sea-view terraces very close to the beach, perfect for longer stays and sunset evenings.
🔍Good vibes penthouse Ca Lidia 5terreparco – 9.1/10 (107 reviews)
Short description: One-bedroom penthouse apartment in an 1800s historic building, with a cosy, characterful interior and balcony or terrace offering sea or village views. Guests highlight the romantic feel and well-stocked kitchenette. Best for couples who want atmosphere and a special stay.
Neighborhood/landmark: In Riomaggiore’s old town, about 300–400 m from Riomaggiore Beach and close to the Church of San Giovanni and the main lanes.
Key facilities (shown): Air-conditioning, balcony, sun terrace, free Wi-Fi, kitchenette, private bathroom, work desk and TV.
Why it stands out: Romantic penthouse setting in a historic house, with balcony views and strong reviews from couples for location and ambience.
🔍L’oblò – 9.1/10 (113 reviews)
Short description: One-bedroom holiday home with an open-plan kitchen–living area and a standout sea-view roof terrace. Décor is simple, modern and functional, and the space can sleep up to four with a sofa bed in the living room. Great for couples or small groups who want self-catering and outdoor space.
Neighborhood/landmark: Via Telemaco Signorini, just a few steps from Riomaggiore train station, near the harbour, ferry dock, beach and town centre, around six minutes’ walk to the beach.
Key facilities (shown): Kitchen, private sea-view terrace, washing machine, bath, air-conditioning, heating, good free Wi-Fi.
Why it stands out: Highly rated for its roof terrace and ultra-convenient location right by the station yet with big sea views.
🔍Rio Apartment cà di Euro with parking – 8.4/10 (175 reviews)
Short description: Larger apartment of around 60 m² with a separate bedroom and living area, plus outdoor space and garden views. The layout and size work well for couples or small families who want room to spread out and cook.
Neighborhood/landmark: Located in Riomaggiore village with easy access to the centre and coastal area, set slightly up and away from the busiest lanes.
Key facilities (shown): Entire place, kitchen, garden, terrace, view, free Wi-Fi rated very highly by guests.
Why it stands out: Good value for a larger apartment with terrace and excellent Wi-Fi, plus the advantage of dedicated parking for road-trip travellers.
Eating and drinking in RiomaggioreÂ
Riomaggiore has more food options than you might expect for its size. Most are simple places with fresh ingredients and local recipes.
Ligurian cuisine is light and full of herbs and olive oil. Typical flavours in and around Riomaggiore include:
Trofie or trenette pasta with basil pesto
Focaccia with olive oil, salt, and sometimes onions or tomatoes
Fresh anchovies and other local fish
Fried seafood cones from small takeaways
Local white wines from the terraced vineyards
Plan for:
A quick breakfast of focaccia and coffee before a hike
A slow lunch in the shade after a swim
Aperitivo with a spritz or a glass of local wine
One special dinner with a sea view if your budget allows
Most dining rooms are small. In peak season, reserve evening tables in advance, especially for terraces that overlook the harbour.
When to visit and how long to stay
Best time to visit Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore Cinque Terre changes a lot with the seasons.
Spring brings mild weather, flowers and fresh energy. April and May mix open trails and less intense crowds.
Early summer feels busy but joyful. June offers long days and good sea temperatures.
High summer in July and August is hot and crowded. The sea is wonderful but trains and streets get full.
Early autumn, especially September and early October, is very popular. The sea stays warm. The air cools slightly.
Late autumn and winter are quiet and more local. Some hotels and restaurants close. On clear days the light can be beautiful.
If you can travel outside school holidays, you gain space and calmer transport. Weekdays also feel gentler than weekends.
How many days in Riomaggiore
You can see the basic layout of Riomaggiore village in a few hours. Yet staying at least two nights gives you more value.
With two or three nights you can:
Explore the lanes without rushing
Walk Via dell Amore or an alternative trail
Take one boat trip or a half day beach visit
Enjoy both sunrise and sunset from the harbour area
Many visitors include Riomaggiore in a longer Liguria or Italy itinerary. A common pattern is three nights in Cinque Terre and then a move to another region.
Practical tips for visiting Riomaggiore
A few simple habits make life in Riomaggiore easier.
Travel with lighter luggage. Many streets are steep and stepped.
Wear comfortable shoes with grip, even for short walks.
Carry water and sun protection, especially in summer.
Buy the Cinque Terre Card early in the day if you plan trains and trails.
Reserve your Via dell Amore slot as soon as your dates are fixed.
Check the national park website or local info boards for trail changes.
Respect local signs about swimming and cliff access.
If you travel with children or older relatives, talk through the number of stairs in advance. Choose accommodation that matches their comfort level.
Plan your Riomaggiore itinerary
Start by deciding how Riomaggiore fits into your wider holiday.
Do you want it as:
Your main base in Cinque Terre
A romantic stop between city visits
A short break focused on sea air and walking
Once you know this, lock in three things:
Your accommodation in the part of the village that suits your energy level.
Your Via dell Amore reservation or an alternative hike.
One special experience, such as a boat trip or the sanctuary walk.
Add space for slow time. Leave an afternoon free for sitting on the rocks and watching boats come and go. Keep an evening free for an unplanned dinner where the menu simply looks right in the moment.
With a few smart choices, Riomaggiore Italy becomes more than a postcard stop. It becomes a colourful base where you breathe sea air, climb old stone steps, and return home with clear and strong memories.
FAQsÂ
Is Riomaggiore worth visiting?
Yes. Riomaggiore offers classic Cinque Terre views, a dramatic harbour, easy train access and a lived in village feel. It works both as a base and as a day trip.
Is Riomaggiore a good base for Cinque Terre?
Riomaggiore is a strong base if you arrive via La Spezia and plan to travel by train to the other villages.
Can you swim in Riomaggiore?
You can swim near the rocky beach area outside the harbour. The shore is stony, the water is deep and clear. Use water shoes and always check local signs and sea conditions.
Is Via dell Amore open from Riomaggiore?
The Via dell Amore path reopened with timed entry and limited numbers. Access is one way from Riomaggiore to Manarola. You need a reservation, a ticket and usually a Cinque Terre Card. Always check the latest details before you travel.
Do I need a Cinque Terre Card for Riomaggiore?
You do not need the card to walk in the village itself. The Cinque Terre Card is helpful if you want unlimited trains between the villages and access to certain paid coastal trails.
Is Riomaggiore suitable for families?
Riomaggiore can work well for families with children who manage stairs. For long beach days with sand it is smart to combine it with visits to Monterosso or other coastal towns.
How many days should I stay in Riomaggiore?
Two or three nights are ideal for most visitors. This gives you time to explore the village, enjoy one or two hikes, and relax by the sea without rushing.
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