Monterosso al Mare

Monterosso is the largest of the five coastal villages that comprise the Cinque Terre. Nestled among hills cultivated with lemon trees, vines, and olive groves, this charming village boasts stunning beaches, picturesque reefs, and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most sought-after destinations along the Italian Riviera.

The village is divided into two sections, distinguished by the medieval Aurora Tower. The historic part of the village features the remnants of a castle and is characterized by its narrow medieval streets, known as carruggi, lined with vibrant terraced houses, shops, and dining establishments.

For beach enthusiasts, this is an ideal choice. The town offers a variety of beaches, both private and public.
Close to the train station, visitors can find Bagni Eden, a lovely beach marked by its distinctive orange and blue striped umbrellas.

Monterosso's relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for individuals with mobility challenges and those who prefer to avoid steep climbs.
It is well-suited for families with young children, as there are extensive stretches along the beach promenade that accommodate strollers.

Hiking the path from Monterosso to Vernazza

Exploring this stunning coastline is best accomplished through hiking. The trail connecting Monterosso to Vernazza commences at the end of the promenade adjacent to Hotel Porto Roca.
The hike typically lasts around two hours. T
his path offers breathtaking views characterized by vineyards and olive groves on one side, while the other side reveals the sparkling ocean.
For further details, refer to the Cinque Terre hiking trails.
To access this trail, a Cinque Terre Card is required.
A one-day trekking card is available for €7.50 and can be purchased at tourist information centers located at the station or at designated control booths. Alternatively, visitors may opt for a combined train and hiking pass. The Cinque Terre Express trains operate frequently along the Levanto - Cinque Terre - La Spezia route, stopping at each of the five towns. During the off-peak season, no pass is necessary as all trails are accessible free of charge.
If you find yourself in Levanto, you can also hike the trail to Monterosso, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.
No hiking pass is required for this particular route.

The Lemon Festival

The renowned Lemon Festival is scheduled for Saturday, May 17, 2025.
This distinctive celebration honors the lemons of this area, occurring annually on the third Saturday of May. This village boasts a rich history of lemon cultivation, with these fruits serving as a vital component in various local delicacies, including anchovies marinated in lemon juice, limoncino (lemon liqueur), lemon cream, lemon marmalade, granita, ice cream, and lemon cakes. Throughout the festival, the village is adorned with charming lemon-themed decorations. Stalls are arranged along the quaint streets of the historic section of of the village, where lemon producers showcase their offerings.
Attendees have the opportunity to sample and purchase an array of delectable products crafted from this delightful fruit.

What to see in Monterosso al Mare

1 - The Farmers' Market takes place every Thursday morning.
2 - The Church of San Giovanni Battista is situated in the central square of the historic town. This church, built in the 1200s, showcases the Gothic-Genovese architectural style. Within its interior, one can find a fresco illustrating the baptism of Christ.
3 - The San Francesco Church houses significant artworks, including the Crucifixion by Van Dyck.
4 - At the end of Fegina Beach stands the Statue of the Giant, Il Gigante, a stone sculpture that represents Neptune, the deity of the sea.
5 - The Statue of San Francesco d'Assisi is positioned on the "colle dei capuccini" on the side of the old town.
6 - Perched at an elevation of 400 meters above sea level is the Soviore Sanctuary, which dates back to the 17th century.

Parking in Monterosso

This is the sole village that features extensive parking facilities in its central area. There are two primary parking locations: In Fegina, the modern section of the town: This parking lot accommodates 300 vehicles and is situated close to Fegina beach. The parking rates are 2.50 euros per hour, or 25 euros for a full day. For stays from the third to the seventh day, the cost is 10 euros per day, while from the eighth day onward, the fee reduces to 5 euros per day. In Loreto, the historical section of the town: This parking area offers 100 spaces and operates 24 hours a day, throughout the year, located at the entrance to the old part of the village. The parking charges are the same as in Fegina, at 2.50 euros per hour and 25 euros for a full day. The rates for stays from the third to the seventh day are 10 euros per day, and from the eighth day onward, the cost is 5 euros per day.