What to see during a holiday in Riomaggiore

The first rays of sun paint the colorful rooftops of Riomaggiore in gold and pink. You sit on your balcony, a light sea breeze brushes your face as you slowly sip your espresso, enjoying the silence broken only by seagull cries and the soft murmur of the village waking up.

By day, you wander through narrow cobbled alleys, discover artisan shops, and taste local specialties: a glass of Cinque Terre white wine and freshly baked focaccia. Coastal walks reward you with heart-stirring views where wild nature and the endless sea merge in an eternal embrace.

At night, you return to your apartment and prepare for one of the most romantic moments: dinner under the stars on your private terrace. The sky turns to shades of purple and orange as you toast with a glass of Sciacchetrà, wrapped in the magic of a Ligurian night. A distant guitar and the shimmering lights on calm waters create a dreamlike atmosphere—perfect for an unforgettable stay in one of Italy’s most charming corners.

Tour of the village

 Via Cristoforo Colombo is located in the center of the village; going uphill you reach Via Telemaco and the Church Square, where the Cathedral of San Giovanni stands—built in the 1300s and renovated in the 1800s. (Be sure to visit it, it’s worth it!)

Walk to the Castle:

 Starting again from the church square, cross the square and go up to the right—you’ll reach the Castle of Riomaggiore, a watchtower fortress built by the Republic of Genoa in the 15th century. Today it hosts conferences and events and is an important panoramic point from which you can admire the cliffs, the village, and the beautiful Via dell’Amore.
Next to the Castle is a small church, the “Oratory of San Rocco.”
Going downhill to the left, you’ll arrive at the Station Square. From there, cross the square and continue straight through the blue tunnel. At the end, turning right takes you down to the sea, while turning left brings you back to the main street of the village, “Via Colombo.”

The Old Town

 Stroll through the narrow cobbled streets of the village where you can admire the colorful houses typical of the Cinque Terre and discover charming corners.

The Church of San Giovanni Battista

Built in 1340, this Ligurian-Gothic church is famous for its marble rose window and architectural details.

The Castle of Riomaggiore

Located at the top of the village, this ancient castle offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the colorful houses and the sea.
It was built in the 13th century as a defensive structure.

The Harbor

One of the most photographed places in Riomaggiore and all the Cinque Terre villages. The harbor is perfect to enjoy the marine atmosphere, watch the sunset, and see the traditional Ligurian boats called gozzi.

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montenero

Located on a hill above Riomaggiore, the sanctuary offers extraordinary panoramic views of the village and the sea. It can be reached via a walk or a short hike.

Riomaggiore Beach

The beach called “Fossola” is located near the harbor and is just a 3-minute walk from the village. Quiet and secluded, it’s ideal for those looking for a bit of privacy. It’s very small and made of pebbles.

Cinque Terre National Park

Riomaggiore is the starting point for many hiking trails that cross this UNESCO Park, offering spectacular views and full immersion in nature.

The Local Wineries

Taste the typical wines of the Cinque Terre, such as the famous Sciacchetrà, in the village’s wineries and restaurants.