Riomaggiore is one of the five famous colorful, cliff-hanging Cinque Terre villages in the Italian Riviera. It is situated along the ridges of the two terraced hills that descend steeply into the water, and is characterized by the colorful facades and slate roofs of its houses. The town is stretched along a vertical axe, so the steep stair-stepped streets are the only means to move around the town.
It is located at the interior of the Natural Park of Cinque Terre and it is also a Protected Marine Area, which houses several rare species of animals and plants.
Visitors can enjoy the amazing natural surroundings from the land and the sea, and explore this unique town on foot, camera ready in hand.
A Little Bit Of History
Picturesque Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre
The origins of this tiny village date back to the 8th century.
The early inhabitants were the people from the Vara Valley and these people came here in search of a better climate to raise their grapes and olives, and to be free from pirate attacks.
Boats lined up in Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre
However, the first historical traces date back to 1239 with the entrance of the inhabitants of the feudal district of Carpena, who swore loyalty to the “Compagnia” from Genoa.
Marquis Turcotti, Lord of Ripalta and feudal vassal of this part of the coast gave all the properties in this region to Nicolo Fieschi, who after a few years transferred them to the Republic of Genoa.
In 1343 this port town became an independent municipality and administration.
During Napoleon’s period, Manarola was taken in by this tiny port town.
Riomaggiore is named after “Rivus Mayor” stream that flows beneath the main road.
The Celebration of Corpus Domini takes place here with the blessing of the sea taking place in May or June according to Easter.
Where is Riomaggiore?
- 9.9 miles/ 16 km from Vernazza, Italy
- 99.4 miles/ 160 km from Florence, Italy
- 8 miles/ 13 km from La Spezia, Italy
- 74.5 miles/ 120 km from Genoa, Italy
- 146.6 miles/ 236 km from Milan, Italy
- 142.9 miles/ 230 km from Bologna, Italy
- 233 miles/ 375 km from Venice, Italy
- 59.6 miles/ 96 km fro Pisa International Airport, Italy
- 95.6 miles/ 154 km from Florence Airport, Peretola, Italy
- 177.7 miles/ 286 km from Milan-Malpensa Airport, Italy
- 168.3 miles/ 271 km from Milan Bergamo Airport, Italy
- 146 miles/ 235 km from Milan Linate Airport, Italy
Things to See
Port of Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre
- Guardiola Tower
- San Giovanni Battista Church
- The Castle
- Via C Colombo
- Botanical Garden
- Diving Center
- Museum of Memory
Beaches
- There is a town beach along the path, past the harbor front, to the east of the village
- Canneto Beach
Excursions
- Boat Tour
- Day Trips to Nearby Villages
Exploring Riomaggiore helps you to get an experience of a small, rustic Italian town.
If you are allergic to crowded areas and want to enjoy Italy like an Italian, then make sure you visit this unique place.
We wish you a fantastic Mediterranean cruise!
