Monterosso  al  Mare

Latest update: 29 February 2024
By Dion Protani
The picturesque village Monterosso al Mare is nestled along the Ligurian coast in the province of La Spezia in Liguria.

Home to around 1,500 inhabitants, it is the largest of the five villages comprising the Cinque Terre. Monterosso is renowned for its stunning beaches, characterised by crystal-clear waters and golden sands, making it a popular destination for sunbathing and swimming. The village also features charming narrow streets, colorful buildings, and historical landmarks, including the medieval Aurora Tower and the Church of San Giovanni Battista.
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Monterosso al Mare: Cinque Terre's beach town
Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the Cinque Terre villages, boasts a stunning coastline with sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and colorful houses nestled against lush green hillsides. Visitors can explore the historic old town, characterized by its medieval towers and charming narrow streets.

​The village is also renowned for its delectable seafood cuisine, served in waterfront restaurants and traditional trattorias. Nearby attractions include scenic hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Ligurian coast and surrounding vineyards. Monterosso's blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and gastronomic delights make it a must-visit destination on any Ligurian itinerary.
Comune di Monterosso al Mare
Province: La Spezia

Region: Liguria

Population: 1,340 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024)

​Size: 11 km²

Maximum elevation: 12 metres

Highlights: Convent, beaches, churches, old town, port

Close by: Corniglia, Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Manarola

Recommended hotel: Stella della Marina
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Portovenere, Cinque Terre and the Islands (Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto)

​Year: 1997
What are the most popular tours and activities in Monterosso al Mare?
  • Village Exploration: Wander through the charming streets and alleys of Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five villages of the Cinque Terre, admiring its colorful buildings, historic landmarks, and panoramic sea views.
  • Beach Relaxation: Unwind on the sandy beaches of Monterosso al Mare, soaking up the Mediterranean sun and swimming in the clear turquoise waters. The village boasts both a public beach and a private beach area, offering opportunities for sunbathing and water sports activities.
  • Hiking the Cinque Terre Trails: Embark on a hiking adventure along the famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) or other trails that connect Monterosso al Mare to neighboring villages like Vernazza and Corniglia, enjoying spectacular coastal views and lush Mediterranean vegetation along the way.
  • Boat Excursions: Explore the rugged coastline and hidden coves of Monterosso al Mare and the Cinque Terre by joining a boat excursion, which provides unique perspectives of the villages nestled amidst cliffs, as well as opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and admiring the coastal landscape from the sea.
  • Wine Tasting: Indulge in a wine tasting experience in Monterosso al Mare, sampling locally-produced wines such as the famous Sciacchetrà dessert wine, while learning about the region's winemaking traditions and the unique terroir that gives these wines their distinctive flavors.
  • Cultural Visits: Visit historical landmarks like the 17th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista, with its striking black and white facade, or explore the remains of the ancient Monterosso Castle, which offers panoramic views of the village and surrounding coastline.
Where should I eat in Monterosso al Mare?
  • Ristorante Miky: Situated along the beachfront promenade, Ristorante Miky is a renowned seafood restaurant known for its creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of fresh fish, homemade pastas, and innovative seafood creations, all accompanied by an extensive wine list.
  • Ristorante Ciak: Located in the heart of the old town, Ristorante Ciak offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere along with delicious Ligurian cuisine. Guests can enjoy homemade pastas, grilled fish, and traditional dishes such as pesto lasagna and stuffed anchovies.
  • Il Casello: Nestled in a historic building overlooking the sea, Il Casello is a charming restaurant known for its romantic ambiance and spectacular views. The menu features a selection of seafood specialties, homemade pastas, and classic Italian dishes, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
  • Ristorante Belvedere: Perched on a hillside overlooking the village and the coastline, Ristorante Belvedere offers panoramic views and delicious cuisine in a picturesque setting. Guests can dine on the outdoor terrace and enjoy a menu of seafood, pasta, and regional specialties, accompanied by a selection of wines from the region.
  • Al Pozzo: Tucked away in a quiet alley in the old town, Al Pozzo is a hidden gem known for its authentic Ligurian cuisine and friendly service. The restaurant specializes in homemade pastas, seafood risotto, and traditional dishes such as stuffed mussels and grilled octopus.

Monterosso  al  Mare​  Gallery

What are the best places to stay in Monterosso al Mare?
  • Hotel Porto Roca: Situated on a cliff overlooking the Ligurian Sea, Hotel Porto Roca offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. The rooms are elegantly furnished and feature private balconies or terraces. Guests can relax by the outdoor pool or enjoy a meal at the hotel's panoramic restaurant.
  • Hotel Villa Steno: This charming hotel is located in the heart of Monterosso al Mare, just steps from the beach and the historic center. The rooms are bright and spacious, with modern amenities and traditional decor. Guests can relax in the garden or enjoy a drink on the terrace with sea views.
  • Affittacamere Anita: Affittacamere Anita offers comfortable rooms and apartments in a quiet area of Monterosso al Mare, away from the crowds. The accommodations are tastefully decorated and equipped with everything guests need for a relaxing stay. The property is just a short walk from the beach and the town center.
  • Hotel Palme: Hotel Palme is a family-run hotel located in a historic building in the center of Monterosso al Mare. The rooms are cozy and well-appointed, with modern amenities and traditional decor. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning and relax on the rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the town and the sea.
  • Villa Accini Hotel: Nestled among olive groves overlooking the sea, Villa Accini Hotel offers a peaceful retreat in Monterosso al Mare. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with private balconies or terraces. Guests can relax in the garden or take a leisurely stroll to the nearby beach and town center.
What's the closest airport to Monterosso al Mare?
Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA):

  • Genoa Airport is the closest airport to Monterosso al Mare, located approximately 95 kilometers northeast.
  • From Genoa Airport, you can reach Monterosso by train or car.
  • The journey by car takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
  • By train, take a shuttle or taxi to Genova Brignole or Genova Piazza Principe train stations, and then board a regional train to Monterosso. The train journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Pisa International Airport (PSA):

  • While farther away, Pisa Airport is another option, located about 100 kilometers southeast of Monterosso al Mare.
  • From Pisa Airport, you can take a train or drive to Monterosso.
  • The journey by car typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
  • By train, take the PisaMover shuttle to Pisa Centrale Railway Station, and then board a regional train to Monterosso. The train journey takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
What's the closest train station to Monterosso al Mare?
Monterosso al Mare Train Station:

  • Monterosso has its own train station, making it convenient to arrive directly by train.
  • The station is well-connected to other cities in Italy, including Genoa, Pisa, and Florence, via regional and Intercity trains.
  • From the train station, it's a short walk or taxi ride to the center of Monterosso and its beaches.
What private transfer options are there for Monterosso al Mare?
A private transfer from Genoa Airport to Monterosso al Mare takes around one hour 25 minutes. 

If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
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  • Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
  • Arrival date
  • Arrival time
  • Number of passengers
  • Destination (either town or specific hotel) 
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Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
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