The number of steps between these two famous Cinque Terre villages depends entirely on which path you take. If you take the legendary Via dell'Amore (Path of Love), which has finally fully reopened in 2026 after a decade of repair, there are very few steps—it is a flat, paved, and wheelchair-accessible coastal walk of about 1 kilometer. However, if that path is closed or if you prefer a challenge, the "upper" hiking route (Trail 531 via Beccara) is a different story. This vertical trek involves climbing approximately 620 steep stone steps up from Riomaggiore to a peak overlooking the sea, followed by a similar descent down into Manarola. This "stairway" is notoriously grueling and can take 45–60 minutes of intense hiking. While the view from the top is spectacular, it is a significant physical undertaking compared to the breezy 15-minute stroll along the lower seaside path.
The famous coastal path between Riomaggiore and Manarola is called the Via dell’Amore (Path of Love).
The distance is approximately 1 km (0.6 miles), and it typically takes about 20–30 minutes to walk at a leisurely pace, as it’s a flat, paved, scenic trail built along the cliffs.
Important Note:
As of early 2025, the Via dell’Amore has been closed for major renovation and safety work since 2012 (with partial reopenings at times). Its full reopening is anticipated, but you must check the current status before planning to walk it.
If the Via dell’Amore is closed, the alternative route between Riomaggiore and Manarola is: The high path (trail #531), which is steeper, longer (about 1.5–2 hours), and more strenuous. The train, which takes just 2 minutes between stations.
So, in terms of steps on the main coastal path:
Distance: ~1 km
Walking time: ~20-30 minutes
Steps: Roughly 1,300–1,500 steps for the average person.
Always verify the trail status with the Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre before your visit.