• LA SPEZIA

La Spezia – Gateway to the Cinque Terre

La Spezia, nestled on Italy’s Ligurian coast, is a charming port city framed by rolling green hills and a sparkling natural harbour. Though often seen as a launchpad for exploring the nearby Cinque Terre, La Spezia has plenty of treasures of its own, from palm-lined promenades to fascinating museums and authentic trattorias.

The city’s historic centre invites leisurely strolls through colourful streets, where you’ll find lively markets, local boutiques, and piazzas perfect for a morning espresso. Culture lovers can explore the Naval Technical Museum, a nod to La Spezia’s long maritime heritage, or the CAMeC Modern and Contemporary Art Centre. For a taste of daily life, wander along the seafront promenade lined with gardens, sculptures, and views across the Gulf of Poets — so named for the writers and artists who once found inspiration here.

Beyond the city, La Spezia serves as the perfect gateway to Liguria’s crown jewels. Frequent ferries and trains whisk travellers to the pastel-coloured fishing villages of Cinque Terre, while short trips inland lead to medieval hill towns and scenic vineyards. With its blend of seaside charm and easy access to some of Italy’s most iconic landscapes, La Spezia is both a destination to enjoy in its own right and an ideal springboard for unforgettable adventures.

Top Points of Interest in La Spezia

⭐ Unmissable

  1. Passeggiata Morin – A palm-lined waterfront promenade with views across the Gulf of Poets, perfect for a relaxed stroll.

  2. Museo Tecnico Navale (Naval Technical Museum) – Showcasing La Spezia’s naval heritage with ship models, navigation tools, and historic relics.

  3. Castello di San Giorgio – A hilltop fortress with sweeping views over the harbour, home to archaeological treasures dating back to Roman times.

🔄 For Repeat Visitors

  1. CAMeC (Modern and Contemporary Art Centre) – A striking gallery featuring Italian 20th- and 21st-century art.

  2. Piazza Garibaldi & Via del Prione – The city’s lively shopping and café hub, great for soaking up local life.

  3. Giardini Pubblici – Elegant 19th-century gardens dotted with statues and shaded pathways, ideal for an afternoon pause.

🌿 Off-the-Beaten-Path / Curious Travellers

  1. Lerici – A nearby seaside town with a fairytale castle and pretty beaches, once beloved by poets Shelley and Byron.

  2. Portovenere – A UNESCO-listed fishing village with colourful houses, dramatic cliffs, and boat links to the Cinque Terre.

  3. Cinque Terre – Just a short train or ferry ride away, this string of five pastel villages clinging to the cliffs is one of Italy’s most iconic sights.

  4. Sarzana – A medieval hill town inland from La Spezia, known for its fortress, antiques markets, and laid-back charm.