Guide to the Best Things to Do in Riomaggiore, the Colorful Gateway

Looking for the best things to do in Riomaggiore? This cliffside village at the southern tip of Cinque Terre is small, but it makes a big impression. With pastel houses stacked above a lively marina, secret swimming spots, and unbeatable sunset views, Riomaggiore is the kind of place where time slows down. Whether you’re here for the food, the views, or the wine, this village has you covered. Walk the iconic Via dell’Amore (if open), grab a cone of fried anchovies by the harbor, or hike up to one of the panoramic spots overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Wine lovers should check out Liguria wine tours for a chance to taste Cinque Terre DOC and Sciacchetrà wines grown right on these dramatic slopes. From seaside strolls to local pesto and unforgettable boat rides, Riomaggiore is where your Cinque Terre story truly begins.

What are the best things to do in Riomaggiore?

Wander through the colorful streets

Start your visit in the historic center of Riomaggiore, where the village truly comes to life. The tall, narrow houses painted in bold colors climb up the steep cliffs, creating that signature Cinque Terre look. As you wander the winding alleys and stepped streets, you’ll pass tiny shops, local homes, and hidden viewpoints that beg for a photo. This vertical layout isn’t just scenic, it’s a unique architectural response to the village’s rugged terrain. Bring your camera and take your time, exploring these streets is easily one of the most memorable things to do in Riomaggiore.

Walk to the Marina

Down at the bottom of Riomaggiore, the tiny marina feels like a postcard come to life. Colorful houses frame the narrow cove, fishing boats sway in the water, and the whole scene glows in the late afternoon light. Grab a drink from a nearby bar e vini, find a spot on the rocks, and just take it in. Sunset here isn’t just beautiful, it’s kind of unforgettable. And the best part? It doesn’t cost a thing.

Explore the Via dell’Amore Trail

If you’re in Riomaggiore, you’re right at the start of the Via dell’Amore, the famous cliffside path that leads to Manarola. It’s short, scenic, and one of the most iconic walks in Cinque Terre. The views? All sea and sky. Parts of the trail have been closed for restoration, so check the latest updates before you go. When fully open, it’s one of the easiest and most unforgettable ways to connect two villages, and totally worth the stroll for the photos alone.

Visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista

For a quiet break from the buzz of the harbor, head uphill to the Church of San Giovanni Battista. Built in the 14th century, it’s one of the village’s oldest landmarks and a great example of Ligurian Gothic style. The walk up the stone steps is part of the experience, peaceful, scenic, and worth it once you reach the top. Inside, you’ll find simple beauty and a calm that feels miles away from the crowds below. If you’re into architecture or just love discovering local corners, this spot is a must.

Climb up to Castello di Riomaggiore

Climb up through the village and you’ll reach the Castello di Riomaggiore, perched on a rocky terrace with some of the best views in town. Built in the 13th century to defend against pirate raids, the castle now offers a quiet spot to look out over the rooftops and the open sea. There’s not much inside, it’s more about the setting, but it’s a great place to take a break, snap a few photos, and get a sense of just how dramatic this coastline really is.

What are the best things to do around Riomaggiore?

Discover La Spezia the gateway to Cinque Terre

Just 10–15 minutes from Riomaggiore by train, La Spezia is more than a jumping-off point, it’s a destination in its own right. With a lively harbor, the Naval Technical Museum, and local restaurants serving up fresh Ligurian pesto, this coastal city offers a perfect blend of culture and flavor. Many travelers stay here for easy access to Cinque Terre, thanks to the direct train line to all five villages. It’s also a great spot to catch a ferry and enjoy the coastline from the water.

Want to see what La Spezia has to offer beyond the train station? Check out our guide to the best things to do in La Spezia for local eats, sights, and day-trip ideas.

A wine escape above the Cinque Terre

High above Manarola in the quiet village of Volastra, Cantina Capellini is where wine meets tradition, and incredible views. This small, family-run winery has been making local wines for generations, including the famous Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes. You can walk through the vineyards, learn how the wines are made, and enjoy a tasting with sea views you won’t forget. It’s the perfect break from the crowds, just you, the vines, and a glass of Cinque Terre DOC in hand.

Wander through the romantic streets of Manarola

Just a 5-minute train ride or a scenic 20-minute walk from Riomaggiore (via the Via dell’Amore, when open), Manarola is one of the most charming villages in Cinque Terre. With pastel houses clinging to steep cliffs and a picturesque marina, it’s especially magical at sunset, one of the best spots along the coast to watch the sky turn gold. While it shares the same coastline, Manarola has a vibe all its own. Sip a glass of Cinque Terre DOC wine, try fresh pesto, or just wander through its colorful streets.

Curious about what makes Manarola so special? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Manarola to see what not to miss just around the corner.

Explore charming Vernazza and its picturesque harbor

Less thant 20 minutes from Riomaggiore by train, Vernazza is often ranked among the most beautiful villages in Cinque Terre, and it lives up to the hype. With its small pebble beach, pastel buildings wrapped around a natural harbor, and a medieval castle tower that offers sweeping sea views, this village is made for slow strolls and long lunches. Grab a table at a waterfront café, try some Ligurian pesto with seafood, and soak up the relaxed coastal vibe.

Don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Vernazza for more tips on food, views, and hidden corners.

Visit Portovenere a hidden gem

Just outside the Cinque Terre National Park, Porto Venere is often called the “sixth village”, and it’s a solid pick if you’re craving Cinque Terre vibes with way fewer crowds. You can get there from Riomaggiore in under an hour by ferry or about 35 minutes by car via La Spezia. Think colorful harbor views, quiet cobbled streets, and dramatic landmarks like the cliffside Church of San Pietro and the medieval Doria Castle. Don’t miss Byron’s Grotto, a hidden sea cave with serious romantic energy.
Looking for a peaceful break from the main Cinque Terre route? Porto Venere is your perfect day-trip escape.

Walk to Corniglia the hilltop beauty

Tucked high above the sea, Corniglia is the only Cinque Terre village without direct access to the water, and that’s part of its charm. It’s a quieter, more low-key spot that feels worlds away from the busier towns. From Riomaggiore, it takes about 25 minutes by train, followed by a climb up the Lardarina, a long brick staircase carved into the hillside. Not up for the steps? There’s a shuttle that runs from the station to the village center. Once you’re there, expect sweeping views over the coastline, narrow alleys lined with local shops, and plenty of places to sit with a glass of wine and take it all in.

Good to Know before visiting Riomaggiore