La Spezia: A Vibrant Gateway to Italy's Riviera Near Cinque Terre

La Spezia sits on Italy's northern Liguria coast, right by the Mediterranean. It's known as the gateway to the Cinque Terre. But this busy port city is definitely more than just a convenient starting point for exploring its famous neighbors.

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The Ligurian city of La Spezia is second in size only to Genoa. A totally vibrant waterfront and a wealth of maritime history are its claims to fame. Because of its proximity to popular tourist destinations like Florence, Pisa, and the Cinque Terre, it is ideal for adventurers and history buffs.

After a difficult history, La Spezia has made a clean break. Modern day attractions include a maritime museum, a hilltop fortification, picturesque islands in the vicinity, and award-winning Italian restaurants. In this travel guide, we'll demonstrate how La Spezia is more than simply a jumping off place; it is an integral part of Italy's culinary and cultural landscape, guaranteeing unforgettable adventures.

Where is La Spezia?

Located in northwest Italy on the Ligurian coast is the city of La Spezia. Situated at the head of the Gulf of Poets, or Gulf of La Spezia, this port city is strategically important. It is surrounded by rolling hills. Known for its picturesque, rocky beach towns, the Cinque Terre can be reached easily from this area.

Pictures of La Spezia and its Environs

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A Brief History of La Spezia, Italy

The ancient history of La Spezia, Italy, is something to brag about. After Genoa's conquest in 1276, the city's architecture and strategy started to take form. Several artifacts and few early papers attest to this town's status as the former residence of the Roman-established Luni.

Following Genoa's lead, La Spezia established itself as a major naval power, which culminated in the 1861 building of a massive arsenal. With its naval station serving as a vital hub for more than 23,000 Jewish refugees en route to Palestine, La Spezia was dubbed the "Gateway to Zion" during WWII. Major cultural and architectural landmarks like the Navy Museum and the Castle of San Giorgio exhibit the city's medieval and Renaissance history today.

Map of the Best Things to Do in La Spezia

Things to Do in La Spezia, Italy

Nature, history, and culture all come together at La Spezia. It is said to be enchanting and inspiring. In this Mediterranean paradise, you may trek beautiful paths, eat delicious local cuisine, discover ancient ruins, and relax in the sun. Unpredictable twists and turns await.

Explore the Naval Museum:

Those interested in nautical history should make a point of visiting La Spezia, Italy's Naval Technical Museum. This museum explores the technological and operational advancements made by the Italian Navy over the years and is located in the historic Arsenal of La Spezia.

Having relocated from its original location in the 1870s to the naval station in La Spezia, the museum was severely damaged during WWII and had to be reconstructed before reopening to the public in 1958. Tons of wonderful items, such miniature ships, figureheads, and torpedoes, are crammed within it. A wonderful assortment of instruments used by the famous Guglielmo Marconi, an influential figure in the field of radio transmission, is also on display. A remarkable assortment of ship figureheads is on display, illuminating treasures from the World War.

Visit Castello San Giorgio:

If you are interested in history or just want to see a beautiful castle, go no further than Castello San Giorgio. This historic fortress, which dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries and underwent extensive renovations in the latter, is now housing an archaeological museum.

Among the many artifacts on display at the museum are artifacts from the Neolithic era, artifacts from the Roman Empire, and artifacts from the Middle Ages that may be seen through the floor gratings. In addition to its rich history, the castle has breathtaking views of La Spezia and the Gulf of Poets from its panoramic windows.

Relax at Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere:

An unspoiled section of the Ligurian coast, where history meets untamed Mediterranean scrub, is on offer at Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere. Here, the rocky cliffs plunge into the placid Gulf of Poets, a name that is just as descriptive as the landscape. With its winding paths and rugged peaks like Monte Muzzerone's difficult climbs and Palmaria Island's loop, it attracts ecotourists and those people who want to walk softly on Earth. Countless marine and terrestrial animals call this area home, including the secretive Tarantolino gecko.

Discover the Beauty of Cinque Terre:

Cinque Terre, Italy's rugged coastal belt, stitches together five old sea villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—each clinging to the cliffs with a burst of pastel houses that could stir the most jaded of spirits. A mesh of terraced vineyards and sharp drops to the sea, the place doesn’t just offer postcard views; it’s an edible slice of Italian culture, steeped in local flavors where seafood dominates the table and basil fresh enough to punch up the revered local pesto.

A train hop away from La Spezia, this slice of UNESCO heritage is a magnet for the leisure seeker and the trail warrior alike. The famed Sentiero Azzurro trail laces the villages through cliff-hanging, azure-framed pathways, while the slower paced can trawl through cobblestone alleys for artisan wares and a taste of the earthy Ligurian cuisine—think hand-rolled trofie pasta coated in pesto or anchovies fresh enough to swear they've just leapt from the sea, all washed down with a glass of amber-toned Sciacchetrà wine.

Stroll Along the Via del Prione:

You are right in the middle of the action as you meander along Via del Prione in La Spezia. Its historical importance has brought vitality to this pedestrian-only thoroughfare, which traces a tidy route from the train station to the sea. As you go along this street, you'll see a wide variety of stores, cafés, and restaurants that cater to both locals and tourists from all over the world. At night, things really heat up; that's when tourists and residents alike come together to enjoy the finest of Italian cuisine, taste the bold tastes of the region, or just take in the ancient ambiance that Via del Prione so generously provides.

Visit the Amedeo Lia Museum:

La Spezia's Amedeo Lia Museum might just be one of those hidden treasures that you should definitely seek out. The museum takes visitors through art history, beginning in the pre-classical era and continuing through the 18th century, all inside the walls of a former convent. There you can discover more than a thousand items on display, including works of art, sculptures, miniatures, and artifacts from antiquity, all kindly donated by Amedeo Lia himself. If you or your traveling crew are down for the experience, imagine Tintoretto and Canaletto in a spectacular lineup, with rare items like Gothic ivories and Renaissance enamels interspersed throughout.

Take a Boat Tour of the Gulf of Poets:

Taking a boat tour around the Gulf of Poets might feel like you've stepped into an Italian painting—a salty spray-on exploration of La Spezia from the waterside. These voyages normally glide past the trio of islands—Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto—each, if you will, offer a canvas of natural splendor and splashes of la dolce vita including unforgettable gems like the Blue Grotto and Torre Scola. The real magic for most is the laid-back vibe on board, where the day drifts by with local bites and sips, hopefully stitching together a day worth remembering for the rest of your life.

Hike the Trails of Palmaria Island:

Just a short boat journey from Portovenere, Palmaria Island is a perfect example of the charming ancient town and breathtaking landscapes that UNESCO justifiably praises. You can get lost in the Mediterranean scrub and old olive trees here, or you can stand on the brink of craggy cliffs with panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea; it's a spot where the earth meets the sky. Traverses here take hikers via hidden coves and the imposing Forte Cavour, a former prison turned cultural mecca. Palmaria has a trail that seems tailor-made for each kind of hike, from leisurely strolls to strenuous treks.

Discover the Montemarcello-Magra Natural Regional Park:

Near La Spezia, on the border between Tuscany and Liguria, is where you'll find the Montemarcello-Magra Natural Regional Park, an ecological goldmine. Stunning vistas totally abound in this area, from the rugged Caprione promontory to the verdant river valleys of Magra and Vara, interspersed with lovely historic towns and villages that will seem to appear as having been frozen in time.

But the park offers more than meets the eye. If you listen mindfully, you'll notice that the white rock-rose, the flash of the kingfisher, the glide of the heron, and the rustling of the underbrush from the hedgehogs and boars all call this refuge home, where biodiversity thankfully still flourishes. Its network of bike and hiking paths is sure to entice nature lovers, and the area's quiet locations are ideal for birding or just taking it all in.

Go See the Teatro Civico:

In its prime location on Piazza Mentana in the middle of La Spezia, the Teatro Civico is more than simply a beautiful landmark. Although it has been here since 1846, don't let the building's antiquity mislead you; this spot is very much of the present. It was architect Franco Oliva who, in the 1930s, mixed classic elegance with a dash of modernism, causing a stir. Inside, the arrangement is simple: classical music with some contemporary touches, marble sculptures guarding the entrance, and a ceiling that tells a cosmic tale using the zodiac signs. Teatro Civico has maintained its finger on La Spezia's cultural pulse by being the venue of choice for a diverse range of performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts.

Visit the CAMeC - Centre of Modern and Contemporary Art:

After a long day of hiking, the Centre of Modern and Contemporary Art (CAMeC) could be the perfect recipe to get a feel for La Spezia's art scene. Located downtown in a robust structure from the early 20th century, it began operations in 2004. There is a staggering variety of modern and contemporary art spread out across all three levels. Think sculptures, paintings, graphics, and photographs by local luminaries like Giorgio Cozzani and the Battolinis.

Relax at Baia Blu:

You can really relax beneath the Mediterranean sun at Baia Blu, a beach club located near La Spezia. You'll find a saltwater pool, many eating options, and bars here—everything you need for a fun day out. There are spots to unwind here and there, and if you're in the mood to do some exercise, you can sign up for an aqua gym class or give kayaking a go. The design is perfect for basking in the sun and taking in the scenery, with its combination of natural grass areas and wooden decks.

Explore the Varignano Roman Villa:

In the picturesque Porto Venere, you can find the Varignano Roman Villa that goes back to the time of the Roman Empire's decline and fall, from the last days of the Republic to its fading glory. It's among the first oil mills in Liguria, a location that was formerly a this vast estate encircled by wonderfully olive trees as old as Moses. Over time, with each new layer of development, it transformed into an ever-more-opulent mansion, complete with a private bath and mosaics that would have a modern day American senator green with envy.

Little by little, as they have peeled back its layers, archaeologists have discovered more than just stone and mortar. As evidence of the villa's luxurious coastal lifestyle, they uncovered a private port and an intricate water system with a domed cistern that is quite unique in Northern Italy. The floor plan of the villa shows an elegant fusion of rural allure and exquisite relaxation typical of seaside retreats, with a dash of rough manufacture. Far from the mayhem of Rome, this mansion unapologetically served as a haven for the aristocratic upper class to unwind and flaunt their riches.

Walk the Path of Love:

From Riomaggiore to Manarola, the Via dell'Amore (Path of Love) winds its way through the mountainous Cinque Terre region of Italy. A narrow section of the longer Sentiero Azzurro makes up this well-known kilometer. The walkway has long been a meeting place for romantics due to its postcard vistas and its ribbon-like configuration between cliffs and the sea. It has been reinforced with steel mesh and a state-of-the-art monitoring system to ensure its safety after being a victim of landslides in the past. Because of its enormous popularity, a reservation system has been put in place to control the number of people who walk in. With plans for a spectacular reopening in July 2024, the Via dell'Amore will once again serve as a symbol of the Cinque Terre's timeless allure and legendary scenery.

Camping La Spezia

Camping at La Spezia, Italy, is a camper's paradise, with options ranging from utterly picturesque locations near the Cinque Terre to sites entirely right on the beach by the Ligurian Sea. A veritable natural treasure, it has a thoroughly spectacular combination of Mediterranean hills, mountains, and coasts. Any trip to this region is sure to be a deeply amazing journey because of the abundance of exciting and quite authentic experiences it offers.

There are around 25 campgrounds in the La Spezia area, and they all simply provide something special for campers. Among the best options, Agricamping Oasi del Belvivere stands out because of the profoundly high praise it has received from guests. You can find a place to set up camp, park your RV, or reside in a mobile home. Plus, you can be sure that you will be notably comfortable thanks to features like swimming pools, WiFi, and restaurants that are accommodating to specific diets.

An average night at a campground in La Spezia will set you back around €40.00. Season, camp location, and amenities especially all play a role in this pricing. About €190 will cover the cost of renting lodgings instead of a plain campsite. Once again, the amount you pay depends on the time of year, the facilities offered, and the location of the site.

Camping sites tend to fill up incredibly fast, so it's a good idea to plan ahead, particularly during peak seasons and public holidays. How fast they fill up depends on a number of factors, including how popular they are, their location, and the weather. Plan ahead and get your online reservations in early to ensure you don't miss out.

Map of Camping spots in and around La Spezia

Camping spots in La Spezia, Italy, that might interest you:

Situated in Sarzana, close to the Ligurian coast, Camping Iron Gate Marina 3B has a number of amenities, one of which is a sizable swimming pool.

Located in Ameglia, Camping River is near the Mediterranean Sea and the River Magra. It is well-known for its roomy layout and enormous swimming pool.

Camping La Sfinge: Located near Deiva Marina, this straightforward camping with terraces is a great starting point for seeing the Ligurian coast. It is particularly appropriate for trips to Portofino and the Cinque Terre.

ACSI Eurocampings reports that Camping Valdeiva, located in Deiva Marina, is popular with frequent visitors who appreciate the picturesque setting. It is situated a short distance from both the Italian Riviera and the Mediterranean Sea.

As previously mentioned, with only 10 touring sites, Agricamping Oasi del Belvivere, a tiny agritourismo near Arcola inside the Montemarcello Natural Park, provides a more secluded camping experience.

Villaggio Camping Valdeiva in Deiva Marina is renowned for its picturesque setting as well. It is just ten minutes by car from the Riviera di Levante beaches and an hour from Genoa and the Cinque Terre. It has an on-site pizza restaurant and a swimming pool.

La Spezia Beaches (in and around La Spezia)

The beaches of La Spezia are totally known for their diversity. There are sandy areas and rocky hideouts for you to explore. These rocky outcrops are especially well-known for their sheer drop into the ocean; they are incredibly deal for discovering a secluded cove with breathtaking sunset views.

Map of La Spezia Beaches:

In terms of beaches, whether you're looking for somewhere to go scuba diving or just relax in the sun, Deiva Marina is one of our top picks. The black sand of Bonassola significantly gives the beach a pebbly texture. You can experience a little bit of everything in Levanto, and it also vividly serves as a gateway to Portofino and the Cinque Terre.

Of the five Cinque Terre towns, Monterosso al Mare distinctly has the largest sandy beach. Then there are the beaches of Vernazza and Corniglia, where you will find secluded coves and historic pathways leading to the beach.

Near Porto Venere, on Palmaria Island, you'll find the beautiful and well-equipped Spiaggia di Punta Secco and Spiaggia del Pozzale. Fiascherino, and Tellaro are mainland beaches that have an extraordinarily tropical-feeling sand and pristine, turquoise seas.

Finally, not far from Montemarcello Promontory lies the remarkable Punta Corvo Beach. Although it requires some effort to get (available only by sea or a steep climb), the solitude of the stream and the dark gray sand more than compensate for the effort.

La Spezia Italy Cruise port

La Spezia's vast quays and modern facilities make it an absolutely ideal Mediterranean port for the world's biggest cruise ships. It has just undergone an expansion that has added piers and terminals to facilitate easier boarding and increased passenger throughput. The Cinque Terre Cruise Terminal, also known as the "Golfo dei Poeti," has definitely been providing passengers with first-rate service since it opened in December 2015. There are certainly plenty of places to make last-minute purchases, as well as places to clear customs and security.

Cruise Terminal Amenities

Passengers may find all the necessary amenities at La Spezia's cruise port. Because of its central location inside the harbor, Terminal 1 provides easy access to the city core and its attractions. Inside, you'll discover information desks, free Wi-Fi, comfortable seats, clean toilets, and areas to change a baby. Feel the need to explore? Outside, you'll see taxis, buses, and rental cars waiting to take you anywhere you want to go.

Access and Transportation

Walking, taking a shuttle bus, or catching a taxi, cruise passengers find La Spezia's city center just 3 km away from the terminal. At the heart, La Spezia Centrale station totally links directly to hotspots like Florence, Pisa, and Cinque Terre's charming villages. This setup really lets travelers easily chart their own adventure across the region.

Best Guided Tours in (and around) La Spezia

Booking a local tour is the best way to see La Spezia and Italy. You gain unique insights and perks you wouldn't find alone. We love these La Spezia tours and think you will too. Check out our top picks!

Best Places to Eat in La Spezia

Here's our go-to list of top La Spezia restaurants. We handpicked these spots, adding a few gems recommended by family and Italian pals.

Crazy Bruschetta transforms Italian cuisine. It is well-known and unusual. Flavors get a fresh coat in a trendy design.

Kepris Pizzeria masters stone-baked pizzas. It's popular - near the train station. Views and Italian delicacies.

White Lerici sits in, well, Lerici. It offers alfresco eating. Italian and Mediterranean cuisines merge. It's the place for extraordinary lunches.

La Piccola Oasi in Lerici combines fish, beef, and vegan options. It's local, seasonal, and innovative. You dine in a garden.

Il Principe in Sarzana provides Italian cuisine and seafood. It's a beautiful place. You will want to return.

La Pianta 310 in Foodball Club specializes on pizza and Mediterranean cuisine. It's popular with everyone. Dining here is a win.

And finally, Il Pirata in Vernazza specialises on seafood and pasta. Coffee and fresh baked goods complete the package. Cannolis and salmon stand out.

Best Places to Stay in La Spezia

Looking for a hotel to stay in La Spezia? We suggest using Booking.com. It's a terrific site to locate bargains, compare prices, find the perfect location, browse actual images, and read real reviews.

Also, don't pass up the opportunity to visit some great sites and hotels in La Spezia. We stayed in many lovely accommodations, some recommended by Italian relatives and friends.

Each room at Valentyna Rooms has air conditioning and a private bathroom. Nearby are two museums. Clean rooms and a welcoming host are just a couple of things that guests love.

Near Castello San Giorgio, you'll find Matilde Rooms, which provide family rooms with private baths. Great for youngsters, it has its own entrance.

Easy access to the train station at La Spezia is provided by the Hotel Firenze e Continentale. The breakfast is delicious, and the accommodations are elegant. It is perfect for couples visiting Cinque Terre.

Both the location and the service at the Poet Hotel are exceptional. Rooms are comfortable and contemporary. It's an ideal base from which to see La Spezia.

You can see the Ligurian Sea from NH La Spezia. It offers accommodations with views of the water and first-rate service. Conveniently located near the port, it's an ideal spot for cruises.

Parking in La Spezia

If you're visiting Cinque Terre from La Spezia, Italy, you'll be happy to know that parking is easy and plentiful, particularly in and near the train station and other major attractions.

Super handy and open all day, every day: La Spezia Centrale Station Parking, located just by the train station. The hourly rate is €1.50, however it decreases to €0.60 when you park overnight.

Piazza d'Armi: This free site, which is only a 10-minute walk from the station, may fill up quickly, particularly when the tourist rush approaches.

If you are planning a boat journey, Porto Mirabello is the ideal destination since it is just near the port. You may pay €0.60 per hour or €12 per day.

To avoid city traffic, park for free at Palasport, which is conveniently positioned near the highway exit. A shuttle bus will even drop you off right at the station, making it that much more handy.

There are private garages close to the station that you may reserve in advance if you'd like a little more peace of mind; however, they do come at a higher price.

Do you need to do some last-minute shopping or get a bite to eat before you leave? For free parking, try visiting nearby malls like Le Terrazze.

The Weather & Best Time to Visit La Spezia

Although March begins chilly in La Spezia at 54°F, May sees a rise to 72°F. Less rain in late April makes it an ideal time to go exploring. In July and August, the temperature reaches 85 degrees Fahrenheit, producing bright weather that is ideal for a day at the beach. Occasionally, thunderstorms will roll in. Weather in the 70s at the start of fall and 50s at the end of the month. The view remains breathtaking as the rain intensifies. Fahrenheit 40s and 50s characterize winter, and by February, precipitation has decreased. Our advice: landscapes are way more attractive when there are less visitors.

So, Is La spezia Worth visiting?

Of course! La Spezia is an important center for history, culture, and cuisine. Indulge in seafood. See the medieval San Giorgio Castle and the Amedeo Lia Museum. Find great deals on Via Del Prione and Corso Cavour. If you want to escape the crowds and have nice weather, spring and autumn are your best bets. Day excursions to Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and Lerici are all within reach.

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