Exploring the Enchanting Trails of Cinque Terre with Friends

Riomaggiore: Love, Faith, and Ligurian Flavors

Today was a day of exploring Riomaggiore, the first village of Cinque Terre, and it was absolutely magical. From romantic strolls to historical discoveries and culinary delights, every moment felt like a scene from a movie. The vibrant colors of the buildings, the sound of the waves, and the warmth of the Italian sun created an unforgettable experience that I'm so excited to share.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma. It was a perfect morning to sit outside, sipping on a cappuccino and enjoying a pastry while overlooking the harbor. The air was crisp, with that salty tang that only a seaside town can offer. Maximilian and I shared stories and laughter as we watched the local fishermen prepare for their day's work. The bar was conveniently located near Via dell'Amore, making it a great starting point for our explorations.


Discover Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma: A hidden gem in Riomaggiore offering exquisite wines and authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking sea views.

With renewed energy, we headed to the famous Via dell'Amore. I had heard so much about this path, and I was thrilled to experience it firsthand, especially since it had just reopened on February 14, 2025, after extensive renovations. The path was previously closed due to a landslide in 2012, so it felt incredibly special to be among the first to walk it again. Tickets are required, and you need to book a time slot in advance, which we did online. The cost was 10 euros, supplementing our Cinque Terre Card. The path is one-way, from Riomaggiore towards Manarola, and the views were simply breathtaking. It's easy to see why it's called the Path of Love; the scenery is incredibly romantic.


Explore the romantic Via dell'Amore, a stunning coastal path between Riomaggiore and Manarola, ideal for lovers and nature enthusiasts.

The Via dell'Amore, with its stunning views and romantic atmosphere, is more than just a path; it's a symbol of resilience and rebirth for the Cinque Terre.

Maximilian held my hand as we walked, pointing out the various geological formations and the vibrant flora clinging to the cliffs. The path itself is smooth and well-maintained, with safety railings ensuring a comfortable walk. We stopped at several viewpoints to take photos, capturing the stunning vistas of the Ligurian Sea stretching out before us. I could almost imagine the railroad workers from the 1920s who originally carved this path into the cliffs, never knowing it would become such a beloved spot for lovers from all over the world. It’s amazing how something initially created for practical purposes can evolve into a symbol of romance and connection. The history of this path is as captivating as the views it offers.

After our romantic stroll, we made our way to the Church of San Giovanni Battista of Riomaggiore. Situated in the upper part of town, this striking church has a rich history dating back to 1340. Though it received a facelift in 1870, giving it a neo-Gothic facade, many original 14th-century elements remain, including the rose window made of Carrara marble. The church is a testament to the resilience and faith of the community. Inside, we admired the wooden crucifix carved by Anton Maria Maragliano and a triptych depicting the Madonna and Child with Saints Rocco and Sebastiano from the 15th century.


Discover the historic Church of San Giovanni Battista in Riomaggiore, a serene landmark rich in culture and breathtaking coastal views.

The church's location offers a peaceful respite from the bustling streets below. We spent some time in the square, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and enjoying the panoramic views of the town. It was interesting to learn that the church was built in Romanesque style in 1340, commissioned by the bishop of Luni, Antonio Fieschi. Despite a collapse that led to significant restoration in the late 19th century, the church still retains much of its original charm. The interior, divided into three naves with ogival arches, is truly impressive. Maximilian, with his keen interest in history, was particularly fascinated by the Gothic-style entrances decorated with zoomorphic and anthropomorphic elements.

For lunch, we had reservations at Trattoria dal Billy in Manarola, but since we were still in Riomaggiore, we decided to make the most of our time there. We hopped on a local train (so convenient!) and were soon enjoying the breathtaking views from the restaurant's terrace. Trattoria dal Billy is known for its fresh seafood and handmade pasta, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. We started with a shared plate of mussels, followed by the seafood pasta, which was packed with prawns, mussels, clams, and crabmeat. Every bite was bursting with flavor, perfectly complemented by a glass of local white wine. The restaurant is run by three generations of fishermen, which explains why the seafood is so incredibly fresh. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal.


Discover authentic Italian flavors and stunning coastal views at Trattoria dal Billy in Manarola, a must-visit destination for food lovers.

After lunch, we returned to Riomaggiore and indulged in some local shopping. We stopped by I Trogi Wine Shop Riomaggiore, where we sampled a variety of local wines. The staff was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their wines, sharing insights into the region's winemaking traditions. I ended up purchasing a bottle of Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine that's a specialty of the Cinque Terre. The shop also had a selection of souvenirs, and I couldn't resist buying a few small trinkets to remind me of our trip. I Trogi is more than just a wine shop; it’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and savor the flavors of the region. The shop is known for its warm atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both wine enthusiasts and casual visitors.


Explore the exquisite local wines and unique souvenirs at I Trogi Wine Shop, a must-visit destination in Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre.

As evening approached, we headed to Rio Bistrot for dinner. This restaurant is known for its seafood-focused menu and stunning views of the sea. We started with the salmon tartar and fried squid, followed by steamed prawns. The seafood was incredibly fresh, though a bit on the pricier side. The service was efficient, and the ambiance was perfect for a romantic dinner. The location of Rio Bistrot is truly privileged, making it a popular spot, especially during the summer months. The interior design is simple yet elegant, with wooden tables and soft lighting creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Maximilian and I enjoyed a bottle of local wine as we watched the sunset over the Ligurian Sea. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine with stunning views at Rio Bistrot in picturesque Riomaggiore.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Riomaggiore had to offer. From the romantic Via dell'Amore to the historical Church of San Giovanni Battista and the culinary delights at Trattoria dal Billy and Rio Bistrot, every moment was filled with beauty and wonder. I'm so grateful to have shared this experience with Maximilian, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings as we explore Manarola. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Manarola, visit the Manarola Overlook Viewpoint for more stunning vistas, and see the Presepe di Manarola. For dinner, we're booked at Trattoria Via dell'Amore, and I'm already looking forward to another culinary adventure. We might even stop by Chiosco del Sole Volastra Cinque Terre for a drink.

As we walked back to our hotel, hand in hand, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment. The day had been a perfect blend of romance, history, and culinary delights, leaving us with memories that we will cherish for a lifetime. I am also happy that I didn't forget any of my trip essentials today, but I will need to buy a travel adapter and sunglasses tomorrow.

The Sciacchetrail, a race combining trail running with the love for the Cinque Terre territory, is coming up on March 29th. It is a 47 km race through vineyards and ancient mule tracks, crossing the villages with views of the sea. I might have to come back and watch that!

Until tomorrow!

Emilía