Monterosso al Mare
The poetry of the Cinque Terre
Monterosso al Mare is one of the five picturesque villages that make up the Cinque Terre, one of the most fascinating destinations in Liguria and the whole of Italy. This seaside village, the largest and most populous of the Cinque Terre, is famous for its beaches, its historic centre and the breathtaking view of the Ligurian Sea.
Walking through Monterosso means immersing yourself in an authentic and relaxed atmosphere, surrounded by the beauty of the sea and terraced mountains.
It is a place that combines the quiet of nature with the warmth of local traditions.
The beaches
Monterosso al Mare is one of the five picturesque villages that make up the Cinque Terre, one of the most fascinating destinations in Liguria and the whole of Italy. This seaside village, the largest and most populous of the Cinque Terre, is famous for its beaches, its historic centre and the breathtaking view of the Ligurian Sea.
Walking through Monterosso means immersing yourself in an authentic and relaxed atmosphere, surrounded by the beauty of the sea and terraced mountains.
It is a place that combines the quiet of nature with the warmth of local traditions.
Historic centre
The ancient part of Monterosso, separated from Fegina by a pedestrian tunnel, is an enchantment of alleys, colorful houses and picturesque squares.
Not to be missed:
- The Church of San Giovanni Battista, an example of Ligurian-Gothic architecture with its black and white striped façade.
- The Capuchin Convent, located on a hill, which offers a unique panoramic view.
- The Aurora Tower, a medieval tower that separates the two parts of the town.
Food and wine
Monterosso is a paradise for lovers of Ligurian cuisine. It is famous for salted anchovies, a Slow Food product, and for typical dishes such as Genoese pesto and focaccia.
The white wine of the Cinque Terre, produced on the terraces overlooking the sea, is a delight to savour.
Scenic trails
Monterosso is an ideal starting point for exploring the famous trails of the Cinque Terre. Among the most popular routes are the Sentiero Azzurro towards Vernazza and the path to the Sanctuary of Soviore, which offers spectacular views.
What to do in Monterosso
Monterosso al Mare, the largest village in the Cinque Terre, is a pearl set between sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and picturesque alleys.
Its unique beauty and rich cultural heritage make it an unmissable destination for those visiting this fascinating Ligurian region.
Monterosso is the ideal starting point for numerous activities:
- Trekking and hiking: the paths offer unique landscapes, including the famous route to Vernazza (592-4, SVA2) or the one to Punta Mesco.
- Boat trips: at sunset, personalized or to discover the Cinque Terre.
- Adventures: kayaking, e-bikes or even paragliding for the more adventurous.
- Evening tastings: wine courses and dinners in local farms.
The most beautiful beaches in Monterosso
- Fegina Beach: the most famous, with equipped establishments and clear water.
- Beach Bar Alga: perfect for relaxing with quality services.
- Tragagia Beach: a quiet and suggestive corner.
- Scoglio di Monterosso: ideal for lovers of rocks and crystal clear sea.
- Monterosso al Mare Beach: an iconic beach with turquoise waters.
Wine Tours and Tastings in Monterosso
Monterosso is famous for its local wines, made from native vines such as Albarola, Bosco and Vermentino. During a tasting you can enjoy:
- Cinque Terre DOC, a fresh and elegant conventional white.
- Natural and traditional wines, with unique and authentic characteristics.
- Sciacchetrà, a typical sweet wine perfect to pair with cantucci.
Tastings are often accompanied by local delicacies such as focaccia, crostini, salami and cheeses.
Savor Monterosso: Top Foods You Can't Miss
Ligurian cuisine is renowned for its simplicity and use of fresh ingredients. Typical dishes include:
- Monterosso anchovies: a local specialty.
- Ligurian focaccia and Genoese pesto: perfect for a snack.
- Monterosso rice cake: a savory dish ideal for a packed lunch.
- Monterosso lemon
Trekking in Monterosso
Hiking enthusiasts will find a true paradise along the trails that pass through Monterosso. Here are some great options to explore:
592-4 (SVA2) Monterosso – Vernazza
Duration: 2h 15min
Difficulty: For experienced hikers (EE)
Highlights: Spectacular views, vineyards, and scenic glimpses of Vernazza.
509 Monterosso – Madonna di Soviore
Duration: 1h 45min
Difficulty: Moderate (E)
Highlights: A historic mule track winding through olive groves and chestnut woods.
590 Monterosso – Sant’Antonio Mesco
Duration: 1h 15min
Difficulty: Moderate (E)
Highlights: Panoramic paths leading to the ruins of the Sant’Antonio hermitage.
591 Il Termine – Sant’Antonio Mesco – Levanto
Duration: 3h 50min (split into two segments)
Difficulty: Moderate (E)
Highlights: Breathtaking coastal views all along the route.
How to get to Monterosso
The train is the most convenient way to get to Monterosso. The Cinque Terre are located on the Genoa - La Spezia railway line. Travel time: 3 hours.
From Pisa Centrale station, there are daily direct Intercity trains to Monterosso. To reach the other villages, the Cinque Terre Express trains are available, stopping at all Cinque Terre stations approximately every 15–20 minutes.
By CarFrom Genoa: take the A12 motorway and exit at Carrodano - Levanto, then follow signs to Levanto and continue to Monterosso.
Travel time from the A12 exit: 38 minutes (25 km).
From La Spezia: take the A12 motorway and exit at Brugnato, then follow directions to Borghetto di Vara and Pignone until you reach Monterosso.
Travel time from the A12 exit: 40 minutes (28 km).
If you’re arriving by car, it’s recommended to park outside the town center, as access is limited and streets are narrow.
The Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre, made up of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, are five small villages with unique characteristics, nestled between steep cliffs and overlooking the crystal-clear Ligurian Sea.
Each village stands out for its vibrant colors, authentic charm, and perfect harmony with the surrounding landscape.
This extraordinary blend of nature and culture earned them a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997.
Monterosso
The largest village in the Cinque Terre, famous for its golden sandy beaches, terraced vineyards, and a charming historic center full of tradition and authentic flavors.
Vernazza
Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, it stands out for its picturesque little harbor, colorful houses, and romantic atmosphere — ideal for those seeking unforgettable views.
Corniglia
The only village perched on a promontory without direct access to the sea, Corniglia offers spectacular views, quiet alleys, and an authentically Ligurian atmosphere.
Manarola
Famous for its multicolored buildings perched over the sea, Manarola is the perfect place for those who enjoy scenic walks and tasting local wines.
Riomaggiore
A charming village with a complex weave of pastel-colored houses, picturesque narrow streets, and direct access to enchanting coves, ideal for an immersion in maritime tradition.