Romantic Escape to the Coastal Charm of Cinque Terre

A Day in Riomaggiore

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the vibrant heart of Riomaggiore, the southernmost of the Cinque Terre villages. It's amazing how each of these coastal towns has its own unique personality, and Riomaggiore certainly didn't disappoint. From the colorful harbor to the historical landmarks, every corner held a new discovery. It was a day of exploration, delicious food, and soaking in the Ligurian sun.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Il Buongustaio Cucina Casalinga. Nestled away from the main thoroughfare, this charming spot offered a taste of authentic Ligurian home cooking. Hans and I shared a seafood pasta dish that was bursting with freshness. The flavors of the sea were so vibrant, it was the perfect way to start our day. It reminded me of my childhood in Alcalá de Guadaira, where fresh ingredients were always at the heart of every meal.

After breakfast, we set off to explore the village. Riomaggiore is a maze of narrow, winding streets that cascade down to the sea. The colorful houses, stacked one on top of the other, create a breathtaking panorama. We wandered aimlessly, soaking in the atmosphere and snapping photos at every turn. The air was filled with the scent of salt and the sound of seagulls, a symphony of coastal life.

Our first stop was the Castello di Riomaggiore. Perched high above the village, the castle offered stunning views of the coastline. Built in the 13th century, it was originally a defensive structure, protecting the village from pirate raids. Today, it's a cultural center, hosting art exhibitions and community events. As we explored the castle grounds, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like centuries ago, defending the village from invaders. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the architectural details and the strategic location of the fortress.


Discover the enchanting Castello di Riomaggiore, a historic fortress offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage in the heart of Cinque Terre.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

Next, we made our way to the Church of San Giovanni Battista of Riomaggiore. This beautiful church, built in 1340, stands proudly in the upper part of the village. Its neo-Gothic façade, a result of 19th-century renovations, is striking. Inside, we admired the artwork, including a wooden crucifix by Maragliano and a painting of John the Baptist preaching. The church offered a peaceful respite from the bustling streets below. I lit a candle for my family back in Spain, hoping they are well and thinking of us on our Italian adventure.


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

For lunch, we indulged in a seafood feast at Trattoria la Lanterna. This charming restaurant, located near the harbor, is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Ligurian cuisine. We shared a mixed grill of seafood, savoring the flavors of grilled shrimp, calamari, and fish. The meal was accompanied by a crisp local white wine, the perfect complement to the seafood. Hans, being German, appreciated the efficiency of the service and the quality of the food.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria la Lanterna in Corniglia, where every meal offers breathtaking views and unforgettable tastes.

After lunch, we decided to do some shopping. We stumbled upon Cose't Riomaggiore, a charming souvenir shop that showcases the local craftsmanship of the Cinque Terre region. From handmade ceramics to locally produced textiles, every piece told a story. I purchased a hand-painted ceramic bowl, a reminder of our time in Riomaggiore. It will look lovely in our Berlin apartment, perhaps I will use it to display some of the honey from my rooftop beehives.


Discover the heart of Riomaggiore at Cose't Riomaggiore, where unique souvenirs and local craftsmanship meet the charm of the Cinque Terre.

As the afternoon wore on, we strolled back towards the harbor. The small port of Riomaggiore is a picturesque scene, with colorful boats bobbing gently in the water. We watched as local fishermen prepared their nets for the evening's catch. The harbor is the heart of Riomaggiore, a place where the village's maritime traditions come to life.

For dinner, we had a reservation at Dau Cila, a restaurant known for its seafood and stunning views of the harbor. We arrived just as the sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the village. We started with a selection of seafood appetizers, savoring the flavors of fresh oysters, mussels, and clams. For our main course, we both opted for the grilled sea bass, a local specialty. The fish was cooked to perfection, its delicate flavor enhanced by the sea air.


Experience authentic Italian seafood cuisine with breathtaking sea views at Dau Cila in Riomaggiore.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on our day in Riomaggiore. It had been a day of discovery, a chance to immerse ourselves in the beauty and charm of this unique village. From the colorful houses to the historical landmarks, every corner had held a new surprise. And as we watched the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we knew that this was a day we would never forget.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the natural beauty of the Cinque Terre as we hike in the Cinque Terre National Park and along the Sentiero 7A Corniglia-Volastra-Manarola. I am looking forward to seeing more of the landscape that makes this area so special, and I know Hans will appreciate the exercise!

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” – Aldous Huxley

As we walked back to our hotel, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this experience. Cinque Terre had captured our hearts, and Riomaggiore would always hold a special place in our memories. It was a day that reminded me of the simple joys in life: good food, beautiful scenery, and the company of the one you love. It was a perfect day in paradise, a memory that we would cherish for years to come.