Accommodation in Monterosso

Jo,

I haven't stayed in either one, but they both appear to be similar in terms of facilities and ambience. Both hotels are in the "new town", and Hotel Baia is closer to the train station and the beach so access will be slightly easier. Hotel 5 Terre is beside Villa Adriana (where I have stayed) and it's only a short walk to the waterfront so also very easy access.

I wasn't able to see if either one offered A/C but in August that would be one of the things to consider. Whatever you decide, get something booked soon while you still can!

Thanks so much! And they do look very similar! I think we would have more space at the Hotel 5 Terre as they quoted us a quad room and Hotel Baia was only a triple. It also appears that customer service is more desirable at Hotel 5 but the Baia has a private beach. Trying to weigh them both but hope to book in the next 24 hrs! And I should be glad that there is still space! I'm now leaning towards Hotel 5 since you said the location is still good! Thanks again!

Jo,

You're very welcome! I wouldn't wait too long to book as this is the "busy season" in the Cinque Terre.

The beach isn't a huge problem as there are both paid and free parts. If you want to rent a lounger and umbrella, you can pay a few Euro and still have that.

As well, we haven't stayed in either but did stay at the hotel right next door to Hotel Baia (La Spiaggia) and can vouch for the location: a very easy walk from the train station, and almost right on the beach. Like Ken, I took a look at reviews and they're pretty similar. Biggest complaint about Baia seems to be that the elevator is only for luggage or handicapped guests so you'll be taking a lot of stairs if placed on an upper floor. It is listed as having air conditioning on booking.com but I can't find positive confirmation of that so I'm not sure I believe it. Some comments about the staff not being very friendly but some tourists expect five-star service from 3-star hotels, too.

Hotel 5-Terre sees better reviews on booking.com. It's a little bit farther from the train station than Baia but that doesn't bother people: still a good location. It is also listed as having AC although I see recent complaints to the contrary on TA. Reported to have friendly staff, and an elevator (no complaints about stairs).

Take a look at the recent reviews for both and see what leaps out at you, plus or minus? With a baby, I might lean towards 5-Terre simply for the elevator: carrying an infant up and down stairs may get tiresome. The many positive comments about the staff make points with me as well.

A note about the 'private' beach? Do be aware that it involves paying an extra fee whether staying in the hotel or not. That is noted on hotel page on booking.com. In general, a 'private' beach in Monterosso simply means there's a fee to use it, and most of the beach in the 'new' town area is private.

Thanks so much everyone! I'm going to confirm the Hotel 5 Terre. Appreciate all the feedback so quickly!!!

Yep, I think having a quad room will be a nice plus!
Enjoy your trip!