La Spezia was marginalized by its neighbor city Cinque Terre but it is well worth a visit to the city for it hides the treasures of Venice. To be honest, it would be very interesting, not to mention tempting, to drop anchor in a lovely fishing village and spend some time there. However, might as well leave the harbor and explore a city that brims with maritime history, interesting culture, and lovely Italians.
Key Takeaways
- Explore the Cinque Terre National Park, String of Five Villages
- Visit the Technical Naval Museum
- Climb to the top of St. George’s Castle
- Go shopping in the Mercato Centrale
- Eat seafood, pasta, and pesto
- Boat trip to Palmaria Island and the Gulf of La Spezia
- Visit the village of Portovenere
- more…
Complete Guide on Things to See in La Spezia
Welcome to La Spezia’s blog where we are going to discover the best places to go and things to see in La Spezia, getting lost through the narrow streets, and taking a look at the known and spotted sites through our senses. If you are a history lover, an art fan, or like to get a bite of the authentic Italian life, La Spezia is truly a destination suitable for every visitor.
Cinque Terre National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts five picturesque villages nestled against cliffs overlooking the sea: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. Visitors can hike, take a boat, or relax on the beaches while immersing themselves in the local culture and traditions.
- Duration: 1-3 days (depending on the number of variless you plan to visit, and how plentiful your activities are)
- Transportation: Take trains from La Spezia Centrale station to the small villages. Vessel excursions are accessible.
- Activities: Attending the hiking, swimming, boat cruises, learning the culture, having sunbathing on the beaches.
- Tips: Cinque Terre card is the smart purchase that frees you from any expense while traveling across the region and towards the trails, make certain to have a strong pair of hiking shoes with you, and book boat tours in advance during the peak season.
Castello di San Giorgio
Dating back to the 13th century, this hillside castle offers stunning views of La Spezia and the Gulf of Poets. Now a museum, it showcases archaeological finds and relics documenting the city’s history.
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Transportation: Bus or taxi reservation from La Spezia or take a walk by driving uphill to reach our destination.
- Activities: Castles’ grounds provide you the opportunity to appreciate shallow breath and breath-taking views, visit various exhibitions in the museum halls.
- Tips: Don’t forget about the correct choice of clothing- comfortable shoes, check the opening hours and cost of museum entrance.
Museo Tecnico Navale della Spezia
Delve into naval history at this museum, housed in a former shipbuilding plant. Marvel at original ship models, submarines, and marine artifacts, showcasing Italy’s engineering prowess for its Navy.
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Transportation: Train from La Spezia to one of the charming towns, using the bus or taxi, which are a short walking distance from the central station.
- Activities: Don’t forget to look at the museum exhibits on the naval history and the technology which they used. You shall have a glance at the ships, submarines, and other marine artifacts.
- Tips: Check the opening hours and the entrance fees to the museum to save some time, and join guided tours to access background knowledge.
Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere
Experience the beauty of the Southern Gulf of Poets at this park, featuring stone-carved beaches, cliffs, and caves. Visitors can explore via walking, cycling, or paddling, immersing themselves in nature’s wonders.
- Duration: Morning only or morning to afternoon to go with whatever suits you the best.
- Transportation: Hay de Lla Spezia o Lerici transbordo, o Guagua desde Campania Lla Spezia
- Activities: Walking paths, biking, swimming, viewing the seaside settlements of Porto Venere and Le Grazie, going into caves and caves, and walking around the area.
- Tips: Wear proper footwear for said activity, hunt down ferry and bus timetables, and bring sunscreen and drinking water.
Museo Civico Amedeo Lia
Admire a diverse collection of artworks spanning the Middle Ages to the 18th century at this art museum. Housed in a former convent, it offers a cultural journey through La Spezia’s artistic heritage.
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Transportation: Chi sfugge la distanza a piedi dalla città di La Spezia.
- Activities: From artworks to sculptures and architecture of the convent, have a closer look at them.
- Tips: Please, do not forget about museum hours and the entrance fee of a museum with or without a guided tour depending on whether you need more details or not.
Via del Prione
Indulge in retail therapy along La Spezia’s main shopping street, lined with commercial establishments, restaurants, and cafes. From souvenirs to designer clothing, Via del Prione offers something for every shopper.
- Duration: As long as you like
- Transportation: It’s a short distance from the La Spezia city center
- Activities: One person`s passion for decor can be met by a local shop showcasing handmade crafts while another person can enjoy the neighboring café or shop a new outfit. All the while friends can sit and have a conversation while enjoying their coffee at the corner coffee shop people-watch.
- Tips: Be untimid to explore side streets and alleyways, find little-known gems and mostly try out local Ligurian dishes and finally, bargaining can be considerable to be paid for souvenirs.
Piazza Brin
Relax and people-watch at La Spezia’s main square, Piazza Brin, home to the Palazzo Civico. Enjoy the ambiance while soaking in the local culture and charm of the town.
- Duration: As long as you like
- Transportation: Entrance within walking distance of La Spezia city center
- Activities: Furthermore, watching people passing by, marveling how stunning the Palazzo Civico is, and relishing the buzz of the square.
- Tips: Discover nearby stores and cafes; go to the concerts or festivals which are held in the square (try to figure out the schedule of the events); just sit on a bench and be a part of the life.
Chiesa di Nostra Signora della Neve
Perched on a hillside overlooking the port, this church offers breathtaking views of La Spezia and the Gulf of Poets. Marvel at the artworks within, including pieces by renowned artists Luca Cambiaso and Antonello da Messina.
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Transportation: Hiking from La Spezia Port or using the bus or just a taxi to get closer to the top of the hill.
- Activities: Plaudits of the church’s architecture and art. City and the scenic sea view.
- Tips: Please wear the dress code and check the opening hours (modesty and respectability are welcome here), initiate your visit in the last half of the day, and buy tickets without the excursion program (if you are a tourist) in order not to distract attendants during the educational process.
San Francesco Church
Immerse yourself in Gothic architecture at this 13th-century church, adorned with paintings and artistic works, including a masterpiece by Pietro Perugino. Explore the rich religious and cultural heritage of La Spezia.
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Transportation: Short walking distance from La Spezia’s city center.
- Activities: The Gothic construction and decoration are very much worth of attention, as are the church’s architecture and sculptures.
- Tips: Check schedules and dress policy, observe services ongoing, and mass attendance to get the spiritual feeling.
Passeggiata Morin
Join locals and tourists alike at this beloved spot for leisurely strolls and sightseeing. Enjoy panoramic views of the Persian Gulf while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of La Spezia.
- Duration: Whatever attracts your attention until you like
- Transportation: He is only 10 minutes on foot from the lively heart of La Spezia.
- Activities: Wander, Mini Joggo, and Cycle recommends people watching and just sitting on a bench to enjoy the atmosphere and sea views.
- Tips: Let yourself go! Visit nearby cafes and restaurants, consider a walking tour with a local guide for some historical observations and photos, and wait for the sun to set over the Gulf of Poets.
Gulf of Poets
Trace the footsteps of literary giants Lord Byron and Percy Bysshe Shelley along this scenic route. Discover charming coastal settlements like Portovenere and Lerici, immortalized by the poets’ works.
- Duration: To travel for a day, or to go a little bit farther and longer.
- Transportation: Boat rides from La Spezia to Portovenere or Lerici ferry ferry
- Activities: Investigating the countryside and villages, bathing in the sea, taking tours in a boat, hiking and visiting Palmaria Island
- Tips: You may want to choose a town dependent on your interests, for instance, Portovenere for its historical appeal and Lerici for its relaxed, calming atmosphere. Also, keep in mind planning boat tours before the peak season, and don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and don’t leave your swimwear behind.
Palmaria Island
Escape to this tranquil island just outside La Spezia’s harbor, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. Embark on boat trips to explore its caves and grottoes, experiencing the untouched beauty of Palmaria.
- Duration: Morning or whole-day
- Transportation: Take ferries from La Spezia or Portovenere.
- Activities: Additionally, you will find hiking trails, swimming, and sunbathing beaches, and spelunking around the island’s special caves and grottos, and flora in the botanic garden.
Conclusion
La Spezia offers a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and natural wonders waiting to be explored. From UNESCO World Heritage sites to picturesque landscapes, immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this enchanting Italian destination.
FAQs
Is it worth visiting La Spezia?
Definitely, you can have a one or two night’s stay in La Spezia to take in all the opportunities available in the town area. It is an interesting seaport adjacent to Cinque Terre. There the visitors can come across a maritime museum, old town with a seafood restaurant and shops and taste local delicacies that were made using local seafood and other ingredients.
Why is La Spezia famous?
La Spezia very close be second city to Genoa that citizens are live in the region of Liguria. The port is one of the main storage and commercial port of the country as well as a major military base of Italian Navy. It’s moreover famous for its museums, the Palio del Golfo, Venice boats’ or trains’ connections with the Cinque Terre.
Can you walk around La Spezia?
In fact, La Spezia is quite a place for walkable tourism. The area of routes-only road starts just from the hill of the train station. Nevertheless, look at the fact that the port is cargo covered, thus; guests are not allowed to go around the port on their own.
How long do you need in La Spezia?
Almost everyone stays between two and three days in La Spezia while exploring the landscapes around. The Article puts emphasis on the fact that the reader will have a lot of time to find the best places to eat, visit the beaches, admire the old town and have fun at night.
