Planning a trip to Cinque Terre and wondering what to do in Monterosso al Mare? Here are the not-to-be-missed highlights.
Located on the seafront, Monterosso al Mare opens directly onto a large sandy beach. This seaside character sets it apart from the other villages of the Cinque Terre and, of course, makes it particularly popular. Every year, the village comes alive with summer visitors who crowd the terraces of the local taverns.
You’ve come to the right place to enjoy the dolce vita to the full. But the village doesn’t just offer idleness, it also has other facets to offer visitors. Monuments, nature and local customs form a joyous picture in which every traveler will find something to his or her liking. To make sure you don’t miss a thing during your visit, we’ve put together a list of Monterosso al Mare’s must-sees. Andiamo!
1. The medieval town
Photo credit: Shutterstock – trabantos
The largest of the Cinque Terre villages is now divided into two parts. While the modern part has the air of a seaside resort, the medieval village is very well preserved. The narrow streets are lined with small, high-rise buildings, typical of medieval Liguria.
You’ll also have the opportunity to discover ancient defensive towers, including the one that today forms the campanile of the Church of St. John the Baptist. If you’re wondering what to do in Monterosso al Mare, the old town is the first port of call!
2. The beaches
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Whatafoto
Beyond the incomparable charm of the Cinque Terre region and the local heritage, it’s also the beach that attracts so many tourists to Monterosso al Mare. In fact, the village boasts the largest sandy beach in the region. With its umbrellas, small bay and famous rock, it’s a photographer’s delight.
What’s more, the beaches are accompanied by infrastructure that is rare in the region, including fine hotels and seaside restaurants. The downside is that much of the sand is privatized. So expect to pay a few euros to enjoy the peace and quiet of a private beach.
3. San Giovanni Battista church
Photo credit: Shutterstock – U. Gernhoefer
The Church of St. John the Baptist is one of the must-see monuments in Monterosso al Mare. Built in the 14th century, it is distinguished by the black and white stripes adorning its façade and colonnades. It also features a superb chiselled marble rose window and a richly decorated choir.
Last but not least, its bell tower proudly dominates the village center. This was originally a defensive tower before the church was built, and was converted to house its bell.
4. The Capuchin monastery
Photo credit: Wikimedia – GIANFRANCO NEGRI
The Capuchin monastery was built in the 17th century on the San Cristoforo hill, which today marks the separation between the modern and ancient towns. Its elevated position affords breathtaking views of the small gulf, the cliffs and the colorful village of Monterosso al Mare.
A true haven of peace, in our opinion this is one of the most beautiful spots in Cinque Terre! What’s more, you’ll also have the chance to admire the sculptures and master paintings in the lovely San Francesco church.
5. Le Santuario di Soviore
Photo credit: Wikimedia – jim walton
Reaching the Santuario di Soviore requires some effort, as you’ll have to climb a steep path for several kilometers. But once there, you’ll enjoy incomparable peace and quiet, far removed from the hustle and bustle experienced when visiting Monterosso al Mare.
Nestled in a green setting, the sanctuary comprises a stone church and a large pink building. The latter now houses a hotel, ideal for a relaxing stay, and a restaurant serving typical local dishes.
6. Aurora Tower
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Mikadun
Of the thirteen towers that defended the town in the Middle Ages, only a handful remain today. The Aurora tower, set against the hill of San Cristoforo, is undoubtedly the most remarkable. In fact, its massive silhouette stands on a promontory surrounded by the sea.
Although it is now used as a dwelling and cannot be visited, the tower is a must-see in Monterosso al Mare.
7. Il Gigante
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Paul Nondevous
Located at the end of one of the village’s beaches, this monumental statue of Neptune is one of the symbols of Monterosso al Mare. The stone Roman god seems to support the entire cornice on his shoulders! This gigante also gave its name to the nearby bathing establishment where you can enjoy an ice cream or a fine meal.
8. Castle ruins
Photo credit: Flickr – Walter Schaffer
The remains of Monterosso’s medieval castle sit atop the San Cristoforo hill, not far from the Capuchin monastery. Of what was once the town’s defensive center, only a few traces remain today. But a visit to the ruins will delight history buffs, who will be able to project themselves back into medieval times.
9. The trails
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Sasha64f
Crisscrossed by numerous footpaths, the Cinque Terre is also a paradise for hikers. These paths offer spectacular views of the sea, vineyards, trees and colorful villages.
From Monterosso al Mare, you can take to the splendid coastal paths. To the east, you’ll reach the village of Vernazza and then the famous Sentiero Azzurro, which links the other villages. To the west, you’ll soon reach Punta Mesco, a promontory that offers one of the finest views in the region.
10. Take a boat trip
Photo credit: Shutterstock – f11photo
Why not take advantage of your visit to Monterosso al Mare to take a boat trip? Thanks to its direct access to the sea and its tourist activity, the village is the perfect starting point for a cruise. Many operators offer boat trips in the Cinque Terre. You can even try your hand at kayaking in the heavenly landscapes of Monterosso Bay!
You can also choose to hire a boat if you want more peace and quiet. With or without a license, with or without the help of a skipper, you’re sure to have one of the best afternoons of your holiday!
Find a rental boat to explore Cinque Terre
11. Eugenio Montale Literary Park
Eugenio Montale is a famous Italian poet born in Genoa, who was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1975. A lover of the Cinque Terre, he remembered Monterosso as a place to spend vacations with his family, who owned two villas there.
Today, the village pays homage to him with a superb « literary park ». A blend of wilderness and lush landscaped gardens, it invites visitors to discover quotations from the author as they stroll along. A lovely poetic stroll in Monterosso!
12. Local festivals
Photo credit: Flickr – Daniel PERRIES
Today, Monterosso al Mare lives to the rhythm of dynamic tourism. But the village has also managed to cultivate its identity and preserve its local traditions, which are happily mingled with by visitors. In particular, local produce is celebrated at major local festivals throughout the year.
On the third Sunday in May, the Lemon Festival gives you the chance to taste citrus fruit in all its forms. In particular, you can taste the delicious limoncello produced locally. In June, the anchovy festival pays tribute to the local fishing tradition. And in September, it’s olive oil’s turn to take center stage!
13. Seafood restaurants
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Estrella127
If you’re not lucky enough to take part in the Anchovy Festival, that won’t stop you from sampling local fish products. In fact, Monterosso al Mare is full of seafood restaurants.
Between the lively taverns in the old town and the terraces overlooking the seafront, you’ll be spoilt for choice. If you have a special occasion to celebrate, don’t miss L’Ancora della Tortuga, listed in the Michelin guide. Its terrace overlooking a small cove is a magical place, and the fish dishes are delicious!
How to get to Monterosso al Mare
How to get to Italy and the Cinque Terre region?
The three major Italian cities closest to Cinque Terre are Florence, Pisa and Genoa. All three are linked to France by rail, but also by numerous air connections.
If you’re planning to fly to Italy, consider using a flight comparison service like Skyscanner. With just a few clicks, you’ll be able to find the best flight for your trip.
How to get to Monterosso al Mare
Once in Italy, there are several ways to reach Monterosso. The first option is the car. However, steep roads and limited parking make getting around the Cinque Terre quite complicated.
We therefore recommend that you take the train, which is by far the best way to reach Monterosso. The village railway station is served directly from the nearby town of La Spezia. Finally, the more adventurous can take a ferry, but this is neither the quickest nor the cheapest option.
Where to stay in Monterosso al Mare?
As Monterosso is the largest tourist village in the Cinque Terre, you’ll find a rich and varied range of accommodation. It’s up to you to choose the type of stay that suits you best! In the old village, you’ll enjoy incomparable picturesque charm.
As for the modern part, it offers the perfect seaside experience. You’ll find a choice of luxury hotels. Don’t hesitate to use an online hotel comparator. But the village also offers a number of more authentic B&Bs or Airbnbs, just like its neighbors. Finally, if you’re looking for peace and quiet, why not book a room at the Santuario di Soviore?
You now have all the keys you need to visit Monterosso al Mare and enjoy the many treasures the village has to offer. We wish you a wonderful trip to Cinque Terre!
Map of hotels and accommodation – Cinque Terre,it