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Staying in Monterosso offers the advantage of being perfectly situated to explore not only the Cinque Terre, but also some of the most charming gems of the eastern Ligurian Riviera. Thanks to the proximity of the railway station and the ferry terminal, you can plan wonderful day trips to discover historic villages, scenic trails and unspoilt natural landscapes.
Staying in Monterosso means finding yourself already immersed in the magic of the Cinque Terre, five villages unique in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, clinging to the cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
Getting around from here is incredibly easy: forget the car and let yourself be guided by the rhythm of the sea and nature. Simply hop on the Cinque Terre Express train or board a boat from the pier in Monterosso to reach, in just a few minutes, romantic Vernazza, the perched village of Corniglia, picturesque Manarola and the charming Riomaggiore.
Whether you choose to admire them from the deck of a boat, through the train windows or whilst walking along the famous scenic paths amidst the scent of lemons and sea air, the five villages will offer you an unforgettable spectacle, just a stone’s throw from your room.
Finally, for an unforgettable day trip by sea, a visit to Portovenere – situated at the western end of the Gulf of Poets – is a must. This medieval village, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will enchant you with its distinctive row of colourful tower houses, the imposing Doria Castle and the spectacular Church of San Pietro, perched on the cliff overlooking the famous Byron’s Grotto.
A little paradise easily accessible in summer thanks to direct boat services departing from Monterosso.
Just a little further north, easily accessible by train, lies the charming town of Sestri Levante, known as the ‘town of the two seas’. This unique village stands on a narrow strip of land wedged between two beautiful inlets: the wider, livelier Baia delle Favole, and the romantic Baia del Silenzio, a cosy gem surrounded by pastel-coloured houses, perfect for a relaxing stroll through historic alleyways and seaside cafés.
If you fancy venturing a little further afield for a full-day trip, you can head west to Genoa. A city rich in contrasts and history, it will captivate you with the timeless charm of its caruggi (typical medieval alleyways), the majestic Palazzi dei Rolli and the liveliness of the historic Porto Antico, home to the famous Aquarium, one of the largest in Europe.
If, on the other hand, you’d prefer a change of scenery and to soak up the elegance of Versilia, you can head east for a trip to Forte dei Marmi. This renowned and exclusive Tuscan resort is famous worldwide for its wide beaches of fine sand, high-fashion boutiques featuring the most prestigious brands, immaculately maintained tree-lined avenues and Versilia’s historic venues, perfect for a day of shopping and socialising.
