Riomaggiore is the southernmost village and the one closest to La Spezia, which makes it the entry point for many visitors. Its houses climb the sides of a narrow valley that opens onto a small harbour, and the main street runs down the valley floor from the station to the water. It has a more working feel than some of the others, with ordinary shops and a local life that carries on around the visitors. It is also the western start of the Via dell'Amore, the cliff walk to Manarola, which runs on timed tickets. The village is steep, with stairways everywhere, and its charm is in the details: laundry above the lanes, boats on the slipway and small bars with a view of the water.
What to see
Walk down the main street, Via Colombo, to the harbour and the Marina Piccola, where boats are pulled up on the slope and a few cafes look out over the water. The church of San Giovanni Battista stands higher up the hill, and the ruined castle above the village gives views down over the roofs. If you have a little more time, the path toward the Sanctuary of Montenero climbs above the village, though you should check trail status first.
Using it as a base
The station is at the top of the village, close to the lanes, which makes it easy to arrive and to leave. Trains to Manarola take a few minutes. Hotels and apartments are plentiful, but many involve stairs, so travel light. The Via dell'Amore starts at the edge of the village, and the timed ticket system means you should book a slot and plan the rest of the day around it. The Cinqueterre Residence in this guide is a mid-range base here.
Practical notes
The village is free to enter. In low season some bars and restaurants close, and the harbour is quiet, but the light is soft and the streets are empty. The park lists weekends with no trains between Corniglia and La Spezia, so confirm dates before you plan a return from the north. Wear shoes with grip, because the lanes are steep and can be slippery in wet weather. Check the park's village page for news before you set out.
What to expect
The experience
A free self-guided visit: the main street down to the harbour, the Marina Piccola, the church and the path up toward the castle.
Best time
Morning, before the first trains fill the main street, or the hour before sunset on the harbour.
How long
One to three hours, longer if you add the Via dell'Amore.
Tips
Pack light for the stairs, wear shoes with grip and book your Via dell'Amore slot before you plan the day.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Arrivals from La Spezia and walkers starting the Via dell'Amore.
- Families
- Fine for children who like stairs; keep a close watch near the harbour slipway.
- Couples
- A sunset drink by the harbour and a dinner in the lanes.
- Pair with
- The Via dell'Amore walk and Manarola.
- Time needed
- Two hours, or half a day with the cliff walk.
Good questions
Is Riomaggiore free to visit?+
Yes, the village and the harbour are free. The Via dell'Amore, which starts here, needs a timed ticket.
How far is the station from the harbour?+
A short walk down the main street, but the village is steep and has many stairs, so travel with a small bag.
Is it a good base?+
Yes, it is close to La Spezia and the start of the Via dell'Amore. Many rooms involve stairs, so ask about access when you book.
What is there to see?+
The harbour and Marina Piccola, the church of San Giovanni Battista and the castle above the village, which gives views over the roofs.
Are there train gaps this winter?+
The park lists weekends with no trains between Corniglia and La Spezia on 14 and 15 November, 19 and 20 December 2026, 9 and 10 January and 6 and 7 February 2027. Check before you travel.
