Riomaggiore is not just a pretty seaside town; it’s a place where you can truly learn about authentic Ligurian culture. Whether it’s learning how to make trofie pasta and tiramisù in a private home or cruising the Gulf of Poets at sunset, these tours and experiences turn a visit into a memorable adventure. We’re especially fond of the Riomaggiore: Pasta and Tiramisù Cooking Class for its intimate setting and the chance to bring home a delicious homemade meal. If you prefer exploring by sea, the Portovenere & Gulf of Poets Half-Day Boat Tour offers stunning views and swimming in crystal-clear waters. For those craving outdoor activity, the SHARK CAVE KAYAK TOUR combines kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring sea caves—an active way to experience the region’s rugged coastline.
Below is a carefully curated list of the best Tours & Experiences in Riomaggiore. Each offers a different way to enjoy your time, whether you’re into food, adventure, or simply soaking up the scenery.
1. Riomaggiore: Pasta and Tiramisù Cooking Class
Enjoy a hands-on cooking class in a private home in Riomaggiore, where you’ll learn to make traditional Ligurian dishes like Trofie pasta with pesto and authentic tiramisù. The experience lasts about 2.5 hours, with timing depending on availability. Your instructor, Luca, shares tips on local culinary traditions, making this not just a cooking lesson but a genuine cultural experience.
What sets this tour apart is the charming terrace with sea views and the intimate setting. Guests rave about Luca’s relaxed, friendly style and the delicious final meal shared over a glass of local white wine. It’s perfect for food lovers who want a meaningful, authentic taste of Riomaggiore. The small group size means plenty of individual attention, and you leave with recipes you’ll want to try at home.
Bottom line: This is a top pick if you love food, want a cozy atmosphere, and enjoy learning from passionate locals. It’s a great way to bring a taste of Liguria back home.
2. Portovenere & Gulf of Poets Half-Day Boat Tour La Spezia
This 4-hour boat tour offers a wonderful way to see the Ligurian coast from the water, with a maximum of 12 passengers. Departing from Marina del Fezzano, you’ll visit stunning spots like Le Rosse, Le Nere, and Punta Pineda, with plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel. The included gear makes it easy to explore the clear waters and discover underwater treasures.
Your guide, Marco, is praised for his knowledge and flexibility, tailoring the trip to your interests. Highlights include stops at Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and scenic views of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto islands. Guests especially enjoy the relaxed pace, the chance to take photos of iconic landscapes, and the small, friendly group.
Value for money is high, given the personalized service and beautiful locations. It’s well suited for travelers who want a scenic, active experience without the crowds.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who enjoy boating, swimming, and discovering secluded spots along the coast.
3. SHARK CAVE KAYAK TOUR
If you’re craving adventure, this 2-hour kayak tour is a fun, active way to explore Cinque Terre’s rugged coastline. Starting from Via San Giacomo, you’ll paddle into sea caves and along cliffs, feeling like a true explorer. The tour includes snorkeling and swimming at a secret beach only accessible by kayak.
Damiano, the guide, is known for his enthusiasm and environmental knowledge. One highlight is paddling into the “Shark Cave,” which makes for some fantastic photos—despite the name, no sharks here, just stunning rock formations. Guests love how accessible this activity is, with no experience necessary, just a sense of adventure.
This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a different perspective of Cinque Terre. Be prepared to get a little wet and have fun navigating the waters.
Bottom line: An exhilarating option for those who want to combine kayaking, snorkeling, and sea caves into one memorable half-day.
4. Riomaggiore: Cinque Terre Sunset Tour with Wine & Focaccia
This 2-hour sunset cruise is a lovely way to unwind and see the coastline from the water. You’ll gently cruise past all five villages, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing. The highlight is the magical swim stop at sunset, perfect for taking in the changing colors of the sky.
Your small group (up to 12 people), with an English-speaking captain, includes local white wine and fresh focaccia, creating a laid-back, authentic experience. Guests rave about the friendly captain and the chance to see the Cinque Terre from a different angle, away from crowds.
This tour is best suited for romantic couples or anyone interested in a peaceful, scenic experience with a splash of local flavor.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for a relaxed, scenic evening on the water with wine and a sunset swim.
5. Private Cinque Terre Trek/Tour
For those who love hiking, this private 8-hour tour offers a tailored experience of Cinque Terre’s trails and villages. Your local host, Pall, has lived in the area for over 30 years, making him the perfect guide for personalized storytelling and route adjustments based on your fitness level.
The hike covers about 4 hours, with plenty of stops for photos, historical insights, and breaks. Afterward, the tour includes train and ferry rides to visit more villages, giving a rundown of Cinque Terre. If you prefer not to hike, a walking version with scenic overlooks is also available.
Guests appreciate Pall’s extensive knowledge and the flexibility to adapt the day to their interests. It’s best suited for active travelers who want an immersive experience and can handle the physical demands of hiking.
Bottom line: Ideal for hikers, photo enthusiasts, and those who want a private, customizable tour.
6. Discover the Cinque Terre with a panoramic E-Bike Tour
This 4-hour e-bike tour takes you around the rocky headlands and villages of Cinque Terre, offering breathtaking views without the strenuous climbs. Starting from Stadio Alberto Picco, your guide leads you through Portovenere, Golfo dei Poeti, and along the Strada Litoranea.
The e-bike makes it accessible to cover more ground and reach scenic vistas that are hard to access on foot. The tour includes stops at Volastra, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Guests praise the friendly guide and the spectacular scenery.
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a manageable, active adventure that captures the beauty of Liguria without excessive exertion.
Bottom line: Great for active travelers looking for stunning coastal views and a bit of exercise.
7. Cinque Terre: Pesto Cooking Class at a Local’s Home
If you’re after an authentic culinary experience, this 2-hour class at a local home teaches you the secrets of making pesto the traditional way. You’ll learn two methods, with tips on storage to keep it fresh, and enjoy a meal with a view of the vineyard.
The hosts are warm, and the setting is beautiful, making it a cozy, genuine experience. Guests rave about the delicious food and the chance to chat with locals about Liguria’s food heritage. The class is suitable for all skill levels, and you leave with recipes to try at home.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for food lovers wanting a memorable, homey experience with authentic flavors.
8. Portovenere and Gulf of Poets: Full Day Boat Tour La Spezia
This 8-hour boat trip offers a full day exploring the coast from La Spezia. Starting from Marina del Fezzano, you’ll cruise past the Church of San Pietro, Byron Grotto, and the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, with plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling.
Your guide shares insights into the area’s history and natural beauty. Stops include swimming at Le Rosse and Pineda, and the chance to visit Portovenere, with its colorful houses and medieval charm. The tour balances scenic cruising with active water stops.
Guests say this trip is well worth the price, especially for those who want a comprehensive look at the coast with expert guidance. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable in the water.
Bottom line: An immersive, full-day adventure with plenty of swimming, sightseeing, and photo ops.
9. Florence/Bologna: Cinque Terre & Pisa Private Tour w/ Transfer
For a full-day exploring both Cinque Terre and Pisa, this private transfer-based tour starts in Florence or Bologna. It combines a guided visit to the colorful villages, free time, and a stop in Pisa to see the Leaning Tower.
The tour offers flexibility with a private vehicle and a knowledgeable guide who provides insights into the region’s highlights. It’s suited for travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning logistics. The 14-hour day includes scenic drives, village visits, and cultural stops.
Reviewers appreciate the convenience and personalized attention, making this a good choice for families or groups seeking efficiency and comfort.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting an all-in-one day trip with minimal hassle, especially from Florence or Bologna.
10. Gulf of Poets: Private Boat Tour from Fezzano, La Spezia
This private 8-hour boat tour offers a tailored experience along the Gulf of Poets with an experienced skipper. Like the half-day version, it includes snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing, but with more time and flexibility.
Guests rave about the personalized service and the chance to visit hidden spots along the coast. The tour passes by Portovenere, Tino and Tinetto islands, and includes stops for photo opportunities and water activities.
Suitable for travelers wanting to customize their experience and dive deeper into the area’s natural beauty. The guide’s local knowledge makes each trip special.
Bottom line: A flexible, full-day escape ideal for water lovers and those seeking a private, customized adventure.
11. Portofino: Private 4H or 8H Boat Tour in the Marine Reserve
If Portofino is calling, this private boat tour offers options from 4 to 8 hours exploring the Portofino Natural Park and surrounding areas. It includes visits to San Fruttuoso, Punta Chiappa, and other stunning spots.
Guests highlight the crystal waters for swimming and snorkeling and the ability to visit famous sites like Christ of the Abyss. The guide is attentive, ensuring you see the best sights in comfort.
This tour is suited for travelers who want a personalized day in the marine reserve, combining sightseeing, water activities, and cultural visits.
Bottom line: Perfect for water enthusiasts and those seeking a flexible, private day in Portofino.
12. Riomaggiore: Five Lands tour with swimming stop and local wine
This 2.5-hour boat tour takes you through all five villages from the sea, with snorkeling, swimming, and a glass of local wine included. It’s a lively, fun way to see the coast without the crowds and enjoy a refreshing break.
Starting from Via San Giacomo, you visit Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso, with stops for photos and water activities. Guests enjoy the informal, friendly atmosphere and the guaranteed fun of swimming and sipping wine.
Well suited for travelers short on time but wanting a comprehensive, enjoyable experience of the Cinque Terre villages.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for a quick, lively, and scenic day on the water.
How to Choose the Right Tour or Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and physical activity level. For a culinary adventure, the cooking classes provide authentic flavors and warm hospitality—check out the Pasta and Tiramisù Class. If you prefer scenic views from the water, the boat tours—ranging from half-day Gulf of Poets to full-day Portovenere—are perfect.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Private Trek or E-bike Tour offer active ways to see the villages and coast. Kayaking and snorkel tours add a sense of adventure, while private boat charters provide the most flexibility.
Timing, budget, and fitness levels will guide your choice. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular small-group tours or private charters.
Final Thoughts
Riomaggiore offers a wide array of tours and experiences that can turn a simple visit into a meaningful, memorable journey. Whether you’re into cooking, outdoor adventures, luxury boat trips, or cultural explorations, there’s something for you here. For a relaxed, scenic introduction, consider the sunset cruise; for active travelers, the hiking or kayaking tours shine; and for food lovers, the cooking classes are unbeatable.
No matter what you choose, booking in advance will help you secure the best times and ensure you don’t miss out on these unique ways to experience Riomaggiore and the Ligurian coast.