Riomaggiore is the easternmost of the Cinque Terre and like these is characterized by the sea overhanging on one side and the rocky mountains on the other. Its peculiarity consists in being built in the valley of the river Rio Maggiore, from which it takes its name, and to this is due its composition to parallel orders of colored houses and towers.

Walking through Riomaggiore, moreover, it will be easy to come across wonderful natural landscapes characterized especially by the Mediterranean Scrub. If you are interested in enjoying the Ligurian coast one step at a time, you can find some great offers and wonderful ideas to make your tour more intense and exciting.
According to ancient legends, the origin of Riomaggiore dates back to the 8th century when a group of fleeing Greek refugees landed on the banks of Punta Montenero. The populations of these areas began to be more successful only after the year 1000, when the Ligurian Gulf began to become a strategic area for maritime trade. Riomaggiore became, in fact, very soon part of the Republic of Genoa, thanks to which it lived a period of tranquility and prosperity until the conquest by Napoleon Bonaparte of the whole territory of present-day Liguria. Finally, in 1861 it became part of the Kingdom of Italy.

If these places fascinate you, you can visit Riomaggiore with one of our tours in Liguria:

⇒Trekking stanziale in Liguria

⇒A spasso per la Liguria: trekking Cinque Terre e Portofino

What to see in Riomaggiore

Walking through Riomaggiore and its narrow streets surrounded by tall and colorful buildings, you can find many buildings of great artistic and architectural value.
Why not decide to spend a carefree day to discover the beauties of this fascinating village in Liguria?
If you want to spend a day in Riomaggiore, we have prepared a list of things to see and visit in peace:

  • Church of San Giovanni Battista
  • Oratory of Santa Maria Assunta
  • Castello of Riomaggiore 

And now let's set off together to discover the most identifying places in Riomaggiore!

Church of San Giovanni Battista

The Church of San Giovanni Battista was built in 1340, as you can read on a stone tablet walled on the facade. Despite the revisions that the church has undergone over the years, it still maintains a strong neo-Gothic style, thanks to the majestic  rose window that stands out on the facade. Among the many works of art present in its interior we remember a triptych created by Benedetto Antelami and the marble pulpit dating back to 1663.

Oratory of Santa Maria Assunta

The Oratory of Santa Maria Assunta was built during the 16th century in the district La Compagna. Inside it preserves many works of art including a wooden statue of the Madonna of the chains and a triptych depicting the Madonna and Child with Saints John the Baptist and Dominic of Guzmán.

Castle of Riomaggiore

The Castle of Riomaggiore was built in 1260 on top of a mountain spur initially for defensive purposes. After the Napoleonic domination, it was filled with soil and used as a cemetery for the local population, while during the XXth  century it was restored and used as a cultural center. Walking through Riomaggiore on foot is easy to spot, as its quadrangular building is surrounded by two large circular towers.

What to do in Riomaggiore - the Slow Active Tours proposal

Once you have discovered the wonders hidden among the streets of Agrigento, the time has come to get to the heart of the sounds and smells of this ancient village.

  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montenero

    For those who love to immerse themselves in uncontaminated nature, the spectacular heights of Riomaggiore offer a breathtaking route that offers a breathtaking view over the entire coast of the Cinque Terre.

  • The Way of Love

    The path will finally reopen in July 2024, returning to offer spectacular views overlooking the sea.

  • Porticciolo of Riomaggiore

    Treat yourself to a visit to one of the most characteristic harbors of the Cinque Terre. The characteristic pastel-colored houses offer a unique, fairy-tale setting. It is no coincidence that it is the perfect location to admire the colors of the sunset reflecting in the water.

  • Cinque Terre walking tour

    If you want to spend a more engaging holiday, you can't miss the wonderful trekking routes in Riomaggiore.
    We at Slow Active Tours offer you an incredible walking journey to discover the wonderful and exciting views that the Ligurian Riviera offers.

Festivals and Popular celebrations in Riomaggiore

The numerous traditional festivals and rites enrich its village, making it lively and unique.
June 12th is the feast of Our Lady of Montenero in Riomaggiore with a procession to the Sanctuary
On June 24th, San Giovanni, patron saint of Riomaggiore, is celebrated. A traditional procession is planned, often accompanied by a display of works created with colored chalk by the Madonnari.

Typical dishes of Riomaggiore

Walking through Riomaggiore and its streets, it is easy to find taverns and restaurants serving typical local dishes. Contrary to expectations, thanks to the many gardens surrounding the village, these typical dishes are not based on fish, but based on vegetables.
Among these stand out the Savory Rice Cake prepared, in general, on the occasion of the patronal feast of Saint Giovanni the Baptist.
Another typical dish of Riomaggiore tradition is the Minestra di campo, a soup made with olive oil, potatoes and wild herbs.
It is also very easy to find typical dishes of Ligurian cuisine, such as pesto and chestnut flour cake.

Eating and Drinking in Riomaggiore

Here are some suggestions from the area:

Cantina del Macellaio in Cristoforo Colombo , 103.In a very modern and welcoming restaurant, thanks to a very friendly and hospitable staff you can taste the excellent dishes especially made of meat. We recommend you the excellent tiramisu.
Kepris Pizzeria in Via Telemaco Signori, 643/b. A pizzeria slightly hidden between the streets of Riomaggiore, but which preserves excellent dishes. The staff is very polite, the pizzas are excellent, varied and delicate. Recommended pizzas Kepris and Riomaggiore.
Vertical Barin Cristoforo Colombo, 76. A fun bar, the only place where you can breathe a little party air in Riomaggiore. Excellent cocktails, both traditional and those of the house and impeccable service. Highly recommended for an aperitif.

So what are you waiting for? Get your stuff ready and off you go!