Key Facts about Monterosso al Mare, Italy

With its sandy beaches, historic charm, and vibrant local culture, Monterosso al Mare is the liveliest of Cinque Terre’s five villages. Perfectly blending seaside relaxation with Italian tradition, it offers everything from anchovy tastings and lemon festivals to hikes with breathtaking coastal views. Whether sunbathing on Fegina Beach, wandering medieval alleys, or sipping local Sciacchetrà wine, Monterosso is a must-visit gem on the Ligurian Riviera.

9/13/20251 min read

Location

Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five Cinque Terre villages, located along the Ligurian coast in northwestern Italy.

Known for

Its long sandy beaches, medieval old town, colorful houses, lemon groves, and anchovy fishing tradition. Monterosso is the most resort-like of the Cinque Terre villages.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June): Mild weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds.
Summer (July–August): Ideal for beaches and festivals, but busiest season.
Autumn (September–October): Pleasant temperatures, grape harvests, and calmer atmosphere.

Local Language

Italian. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Currency

Euro (€).

Getting There

By train: Monterosso has its own station on the Cinque Terre railway line, easily connecting to La Spezia and Genoa.
By car: Accessible via narrow coastal roads, though parking is limited.
By boat: Seasonal ferries connect Monterosso with the other Cinque Terre villages and Portovenere.
By air: Nearest airports are Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (100 km) and Pisa International Airport (120 km).

Top Attractions

Old Town (Centro Storico): Narrow alleys, colorful buildings, and medieval character.
San Giovanni Battista Church: A 14th-century Gothic-style church with striped marble façade.
Convent of the Capuchin Friars: Offers historic art and panoramic views.
Statue of Neptune: A massive stone sculpture on Fegina Beach.
Fegina Beach: The largest sandy beach in Cinque Terre.
Hiking Trails: Scenic routes connecting Monterosso with Vernazza and other villages.

Local Specialties

Anchovies from Monterosso: A delicacy recognized as a Slow Food specialty.
Focaccia & farinata: Ligurian baked goods often enjoyed as snacks.
Troffie al pesto: Handmade pasta with Genovese basil pesto.
Sciacchetrà wine: A rare sweet wine produced in Cinque Terre.
Limoncino: A lemon liqueur made with local citrus.

Notable Events

Sagra del Limone (Lemon Festival, May): Celebrating the town’s lemon heritage with food, drinks, and decorations.
Anchovy Festival (June & September): Showcasing local seafood traditions.
Feast of St. John the Baptist (June 24): Religious processions and celebrations for the town’s patron saint.