Hang onto your hats, because we’re diving headfirst into Riomaggiore, the kind of place that postcards get jealous of.
Imagine a spot where the buildings are painted every shade of an artist’s palette, and the sea so blue it’ll make your heart sing.
Welcome to the wild, wonderful, and downright quirky southern belle of Cinque Terre.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Kinga Krzeminska. Image Location: Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, Italy
What to do in Riomaggiore, the southernmost village in Cinque Terre, Italy
1. Stroll through history
Begin your adventure at the Castello di Riomaggiore. This castle, perched on a hill, offers a window into the village’s past and unparalleled views of the coastline.
2. Enjoy a perfect day on the beach
Don’t miss Riomaggiore Beach (Spiaggia di Riomaggiore). Although it’s more pebbly than sandy, the clear blue waters make it perfect for a refreshing swim or a sun-soaked afternoon.
3. Capture the colorful houses
The iconic view of brightly colored houses stacked along the cliffside is a photographer’s dream. Wander the streets, camera in hand, and capture the gist of Riomaggiore’s vibrant architecture.
Image Credit: Getty Images, catalby. Image Location: Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, Italy
4. Hike the trails
Riomaggiore is a hiker’s paradise, with its stunning trails that connect to other Cinque Terre villages. Each step on these local paths promises you a new, stunning angle of the Ligurian coast. And the views are nothing short of Instagram gold.
The most popular hiking trail starting from Riomaggiore in the Cinque Terre is the Via dell'Amore, or the “Path of Love”. This trail is part of the larger Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro) that connects all five Cinque Terre villages. The Via dell'Amore is famous for its breathtaking views and romantic setting, making it a favorite among tourists. However, it has been subject to closures due to maintenance and safety concerns, so it’s better to check its current status before planning your hike.
For a less crowded hiking experience, consider the Riomaggiore to Manarola route via the Beccara Trail (Sentiero 531). This is a more challenging hike with fewer tourists and stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding vineyards. It’s a great alternative for those seeking a more tranquil and authentic hiking experience in the Cinque Terre region. Keep in mind that trail conditions and accessibility can change — so double-checking never hurts.
Image Credit: Getty Images, rabbit75_ist. Image Location: Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, Italy
Where to stay in Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, Italy
Budget-friendly accommodation
- Ca'di Su. Just a short stroll from the beach, this cozy and affordable spot offers a balcony with city views, free WiFi, and a handy kitchenette. Perfect for beach lovers and couples who dig a laid-back vibe.
- Rio Rest Apartments. Chill with free WiFi and air-con rooms, only minutes away from Riomaggiore Beach. It’s got a garden, terrace, and all the essentials for a comfy stay. Great for couples looking for some peace and privacy without breaking the bank.
Mid-range hotels
- Hotel del Sole. At this 2-star hotel with seven rooms, you get all the standard amenities, like free WiFi, AC and fridge, plus extra perks like a terrace, free toiletries, a lounge bar area and even on-site parking.
- Hotel Villa Argentina. A charming hotel known for its friendly atmosphere, good amenities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape from their splendid terraces.
Luxury stays
- Cinqueterre Residence. Featuring elegant rooms, whirlpool bathtubs, and exceptional service, this luxurious 4-star hotel is perfect for those seeking a lavish stay in Riomaggiore.
- Crêuza De Mä. Right on the seafront, this gem boasts 4 terraces, a solarium, two gardens, a heated hot tub, and outdoor showers. Each room treats you to sea views, air conditioning, a coffee machine, a complimentary minibar, and a flat-screen TV.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Dado Daniela. Image Location: Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, Italy
Top 3 Riomaggiore restaurants and takeaways
1. Trattoria Via Dell'Amore di Viviani Alessandro. Don’t miss their Pesto alla Genovese. It’s where you can experience the authentic taste of Liguria with this classic, flavorful dish.
2. Il Pescato Cucinato (Fish and chips takeaway). Sample their anchovies. Locally sourced and prepared in traditional ways, it’s a true specialty of Riomaggiore and a taste of the local sea.
3. La Cantina del Macellaio. Specializing in all things meaty, La Cantina del Macellaio takes carnivorous cravings to a whole new level. Pair your perfectly cooked cuts with a glass (or two) of exquisite wine, handpicked from small Italian and local producers.
Image Credit: Getty Images, nycshooter. Image Location: Riomaggiore train station, Cinque Terre, Italy
Getting around Riomaggiore: train station and beyond
Riomaggiore is well-connected by the Cinque Terre train system, making it easily accessible from major Italian cities. The train station is your gateway to the rest of the Cinque Terre, with frequent services to the other villages.
How to get to Riomaggiore by train
Getting to Riomaggiore by train is a breeze with Trainline. Here’s a simple guide on how to reach Riomaggiore by train:
From major Italian cities (Milan, Florence, Rome, etc.):
- First, take a train to La Spezia, the largest town near the Cinque Terre region. La Spezia is well-connected to major Italian cities with frequent train services, including high-speed options.
- From La Spezia, switch to a local train that serves the Cinque Terre line. Riomaggiore is the first stop on this line from La Spezia, and the journey takes about 10 minutes.
From Genoa:
- Direct trains are available from Genoa to Riomaggiore. The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the train service.
Cinque Terre Train Pass (Cinque Terre Treno MS Card)
If you plan to explore multiple villages in the Cinque Terre, consider getting a Cinque Terre Treno MS Card, which offers unlimited travel between the villages on the Cinque Terre Express and is convenient for hopping on and off.
Remember to validate your train ticket before boarding, if required, to avoid fines.
Riomaggiore, the southernmost of the five villages in Cinque Terre, is a place where every sunset feels like a party, and the pasta tastes like it’s been blessed by the gods. You arrive as a traveler, but you'll leave with a piece of this funky town in your heart, promising yourself, “I’ll be back for more of that Riomaggiore magic.” Download the Trainline app and book your journey today.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Carol Yepes. Image Location: Riomaggiore, Italy
