Palmaria Island Trek from La Spezia: Ferry & Guided Hike

Walk the hillsides between two villages, learning the story of the grapes and wine as you go.

This guided trek starts at Riomaggiore train station and climbs the hillsides in stages toward Manarola, with a ferry crossing to Palmaria Island included. A live English-speaking guide leads the walk, stopping to talk about local grapes, history and wine; the pace is moderate and designed to keep you away from the main crowds. The trek runs 5 to 6 hours and includes a shuttle boat and ferry boat; children are welcome from age 5.

Step-by-step itinerary

Trek from Riomaggiore to Manarola

• Start at Riomaggiore train station
• Tour the village
• Trek up the hillsides in stages
• Learn about grapes, history, and wine
• Stop for quizzes along the way
• Avoid crowds on the route
• Arrive at Manarola famous photo spot

The Experience

The day starts at 8:30 am at Riomaggiore train station. You'll tour the village first, then begin climbing the hillsides in stages—the pace is steady but not rushed, with stops built in to talk about the grapes, the history of the area, local wine and even some quizzes along the way. The guide keeps the route off the beaten path, so you're not walking where the tour buses go. By the time you reach Manarola and the famous photo spot, the trek ends.

The ferry crossing to Palmaria Island and the shuttle boat are both included, so you don't arrange your own transport between stops. A live guide who speaks English leads the whole walk and sets the rhythm. This is one of the more demanding treks in the area—the views reward the climb, but you'll need a moderate level of fitness to keep up with the hillside stages. Bring water and wear shoes built for uneven ground.

What’s included

• Live English-speaking guide leading the entire trek.
• shuttle boat and ferry boat crossings to and from Palmaria Island.
• village tour at Riomaggiore before the climb begins.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditions

Operated by Trekguyd

Is this one for you?This trek is led at a moderate pace with built-in stops, so it suits anyone who wants to learn about the local grapes and wine without rushing through the hillsides. If you prefer to walk at your own speed or skip the educational stops, a self-guided hike would fit better.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What time does the trek start and where do I meet the guide?

The trek starts at 8:30 am at Riomaggiore train station, where the guide will meet you before the village tour begins.

How long is the walk from Riomaggiore to Manarola?

The full trek runs 5 to 6 hours, including the village tour, the hillside climb in stages, and all the stops along the way to learn about the grapes and wine.

Is the ferry to Palmaria Island included in the price?

Yes, both the ferry boat and shuttle boat are included in the trek; you don't pay separately for either crossing.

Can I bring my children on this trek?

Children are welcome from age 5 and up, though they'll need to be comfortable walking the hillside stages at a moderate pace.

What should I bring or wear for this trek?

Wear sturdy shoes built for uneven ground and bring water. The trek climbs hillsides in stages, so you'll want footwear that grips well on the path.