Lying on a steep rocky promontory, Manarola is part of Riomaggiore municipality and is the second village of Cinque Terre starting from La Spezia.
Linked to Riomaggiore through the world-known “Lovers’ lane”, the village stretches along the central Groppo torrent, which has now been covered.
If you arrive to Manarola by train (recommended), you need to walk a tunnel to get to the village. Turning right, you get to the square of the San Lorenzo gothic church, dating back to 1338. The square also hosts the bell tower and the oratory.
The main street leads directly to the sea. You can also turn left and go to Via Rollandi, one of the most evocative streets of the village. The street heads to a little square dedicated to the poet Montale: the perfect place to sit on a bench and watch the sunset on the sea.
CThe slope will lead you to the Marina area, by the sea. The two concrete slipways, once used to take down the boats, are the only access to the sea. Bathing is also possible in Palaedo, the other slipway, which can be reached after a short walk on a path along the coast.
The "Punta Bonfiglio” park is situated along the street to Palaedo. It contains a pic-nic area with games for children. It’s a marvellous place to admire breathtaking sunsets and panoramas.
You can taste wonderful dishes in the many bars and restaurants which spot the lowest part of the village. The light nativity, stretching over the hill above the village, is certainly worth a visit.