Europe’s prettiest coastal walk through 5 seaside towns with beaches | World | News

Hailed as one of the best coastal walks Europe has to offer, this scenic trail will take you through beautiful villages and breathtaking views. Via dell’Amore isn’t called the “Path of Love” for nothing. According to AllTrails, the UNESCO-listed walk is considered to be the most romantic in the entire world thanks to its impressive cliffs, charming villages and views of the crystal-clear waters below. Located in Cinque Terre, on Italy’s north west coast, this legendary path connects the two southernmost villages of the region, the villages of Riomaggiore and Manarola and has been named one of Europe’s top three walks by travel blog, The world is waiting.

Originally created in the 1920s during the construction of the coastal railway, the legend has it that the path quickly evolved into a meeting point for lovers from the neighbouring villages. Today, the tunnel that connects both villages along the walk is filled with declarations of love and padlocks left by couples from around the globe. 

One of the most iconic sights is a sculpture of a couple sharing a kiss with the sea as a backdrop, which is rendered especially poetic when the sun is going down and reflecting on the sea. 

About halfway through the route, a charming café also offers a relaxing place to enjoy the view with a refreshing drink.

Riomaggiore, the the starting point of the trail, is a village that goes back to the 13th century. Built into steep, rocky terrain, the tall houses are ingeniously designed with two entrances, one at street level and another higher up to adapt to the hillside. 

The town is a mosaic of narrow alleys, stone staircases, and colourful buildings that seem to defy gravity as they rise from the cliffs. Riomaggiore is also home to a stunning beach just minutes away from the harbour offering turquoise waters surrounded by the dramatic cliffs of the Liguria coastline. 

Manarola is also dramatically perched on a high rock about 70 meters above sea level.

The village features a tiny harbour and a small square surrounded by multicoloured houses that all face the sea. 

After being closed for 12 years due to a landslide, the Via dell’Amore officially reopened in 2024. Access is limited to specific periods of the year, and visitors are encouraged to reserve a time slot in advance through the official Cinque Terre website.

During the period from June 1st to October 25th, the path remains open from 9am to 9:30pm with the last admissions taking place at 9pm.