15 Incredible Things to Do in La Spezia, Cinque Terre 🇮🇹 (Local’s Travel Guide to Hidden Gems)

🏠 Where to Stay in La Spezia

• 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Firenze e Continentale
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Le Stelle Della Spezia
• 💸 Cheap: Locanda Dal Moccia
• 🏢 Apartment: Miramare Apartments & Suites
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Real Rooms
• 🏩 For Couples: Last Minute Garden and Jacuzzi

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour Experience from €143 (⭐ 4.8/5)
• Floating Island Experience from €90 (⭐ 4.7/5)
• Small Group Pasta and Tiramisu Class from €95 (⭐ 4.9/5)
• Cinque Terre Boat Cruise to Riomaggiore and Monterosso from €120 (⭐ 4.6/5)

Top Attractions in La Spezia

1. Gulf of Poets

Poetic heritage. Also known as Golfo dei Poeti or Gulf of La Spezia, this place captivated me with its picturesque bay stretching along the Ligurian coast. This breathtaking area earned its name from the many writers and poets who found inspiration here, including Lord Byron and Percy Bysshe Shelley.

Maritime adventures. I joined a 5-hour boat tour aboard a traditional Ligurian Gozzo vessel, which was absolutely worth the experience. These tours typically cost around €90-120 per person (approximately $100-130), including traditional Ligurian snacks and drinks.

Hidden coves. The tour took me to stunning locations like Byron’s Grotto and the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto. Swimming and snorkeling in the secluded coves revealed vibrant underwater scenes that complement the beauty above the surface.

Must-visit spots:

• Tellaro: A colorful fishing village with narrow streets and sea-facing houses
• San Terenzo: Home to Villa Magni where Shelley once lived
• Fezzano: A quiet marina town with authentic local restaurants
• Le Grazie: Known for its protected bay and archaeological underwater site

⭐ Best Tours

• Floating Island Experience – Relax on a unique floating island while exploring the stunning waters around Cinque Terre and the Gulf of Poets.
• Gulf of Poets Boat Tour – Cruise through the enchanting gulf while learning about its rich history and enjoying scenic views of the Ligurian coast.

2. San Giorgio Castle

Medieval marvel. Perched on a hill overlooking La Spezia, San Giorgio Castle immediately caught my attention with its imposing medieval structure. Originally built in the 13th century by Niccolò Fieschi, most of the current fortress dates back to the 17th century.

Defensive design. The castle features a typical medieval square layout with four diagonal guard towers. Walking through the remnants of the original city wall, complete with archways and defensive slits once used by archers, transported me back in time.

Museum treasures. Inside, the archaeological museum houses an impressive collection spanning from the Copper Age to the Roman period. Entrance fee is €5 (about $5.50), which I found reasonable for the extensive exhibits of pottery, tools, and sculptures.

What you’ll discover in the castle museum:

• Prehistoric artifacts from Ligurian caves
• Bronze Age weapons and tools
• Roman-era pottery and household items

Panoramic perspectives. The castle’s position offers breathtaking views of La Spezia and its bay. I spent nearly an hour just taking in the panorama, watching boats crisscross the harbor below.

3. Thaon di Revel Bridge

Maritime inspiration. I was fascinated to learn that the bridge’s sleek white design resembles the framework of sailing ships once crafted in local shipyards. Named after Admiral Paolo Emilio Thaon di Revel, it stands as a symbol of La Spezia’s deep connection to the sea.

Engineering marvel. The bridge’s central section can be raised to allow larger vessels to pass through, which I was lucky enough to witness during my visit. The three-span structure rises to a height of 35 meters at its pylons.

Sunset stroll. Walking across in the evening was magical as the bridge illuminates after dark, casting a soft glow over the harbor. The 3.25-meter wide walkway provides ample space for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy the views.

Practical tips:

• Visit San Giorgio Castle via the winding Via XXVII Marzo, or save your energy by taking the elevator to the entrance
• For the best experience of the Gulf of Poets, book a boat tour that includes stops at multiple villages
• Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the full span of Thaon di Revel Bridge

4. La Spezia Public Gardens

Green oasis. Just steps away from the bustling waterfront, I discovered the Public Gardens, a refreshing retreat that offers a perfect balance to the maritime attractions. The gardens stretch alongside the promenade, creating a lush border between the city and sea.

Historical monument. At the heart of the gardens stands the impressive Giuseppe Garibaldi monument, commemorating the Italian general and patriot. I was struck by the detailed craftsmanship of this tribute to one of Italy’s most celebrated historical figures.

Relaxation spot. After exploring the more active attractions of La Spezia, I appreciated finding a bench in the shade to rest and watch locals go about their day. Many residents use these gardens for morning jogs or evening strolls, giving visitors a glimpse into authentic Italian life.

The gardens offer several amenities worth noting:

• Children’s playground with modern equipment
• Shaded benches strategically placed throughout
• Water fountains for refreshment on hot days
• Direct access to the Morin promenade

5. CAMeC (Centre of Modern and Contemporary Art)

Diverse collections. I spent a fascinating afternoon exploring CAMeC’s permanent collection, which features works by prominent Italian artists alongside international names. The museum particularly focuses on showcasing Ligurian artists, offering insight into the region’s artistic heritage.

Rotating exhibitions. During my visit, the temporary exhibition space hosted an innovative installation by a contemporary Italian sculptor. The museum regularly refreshes these exhibits, meaning return visitors will always find something new to appreciate.

Practical tips:

• Visit the Public Gardens in the early evening when the lighting creates a magical atmosphere
• Check CAMeC’s website before visiting as they occasionally close for exhibition changes
• The museum offers free entry on the first Sunday of each month

6. Amedeo Lia Civic Museum

Renaissance jewel. Tucked away in a former 17th-century Franciscan convent, the Amedeo Lia Museum houses one of northern Italy’s most impressive private art collections. I was immediately struck by the elegant restoration of the building itself, which provides a fitting backdrop for the treasures within.

Collector’s legacy. The museum owes its existence to the remarkable generosity of Amedeo Lia, a La Spezia businessman who donated his entire collection of over 1,000 artworks to the city in 1996. Walking through the galleries, I felt a personal connection to his discerning eye for beauty spanning several centuries.

Artistic highlights. My jaw dropped at the quality of works on display – from delicate ivory miniatures to masterful paintings by artists like Titian and Canaletto. The collection of illuminated manuscripts particularly impressed me, with their intricate gold leaf details still vibrant after hundreds of years.

What makes this collection special:

• Exceptional medieval and Renaissance paintings
• Rare bronze sculptures from ancient Rome
• Byzantine ivories and enamels
• Beautifully preserved illuminated manuscripts

7. Naval Technical Museum

Maritime heritage. As one of Italy’s oldest naval museums (founded in 1923), this fascinating institution immediately immersed me in local deep connection to the sea. Located within the Italian Navy’s operational base, the museum requires visitors to show ID at the entrance – adding to the sense of accessing something special.

Ship models galore. I was amazed by the collection of meticulously crafted ship models tracing the evolution of Italian naval power from ancient galleys to modern warships. The attention to detail is extraordinary – some models even feature tiny working parts that demonstrate how these vessels operated.

Naval innovation. The museum showcases Italy’s contributions to maritime technology, including early submarines and torpedoes. I was particularly fascinated by the human torpedo exhibit, which explained how these dangerous underwater vehicles were operated during World War II.

Historical artifacts. Beyond the impressive models, the museum displays authentic naval equipment, weapons, and navigational instruments. Standing before the actual figureheads that once adorned mighty ships, I felt a tangible connection to seafarers from centuries past.

Insider advice:

• The Lia Museum offers excellent English audio guides for just €3
• Photography is permitted in the Naval Museum (without flash), but restricted in certain areas
• Visit the Naval Museum on weekday mornings to avoid cruise ship crowds

8. Quintino Sella Bomb Shelter

Underground history. Descending into this WWII air raid shelter was like stepping back in time to one of the darkest chapters. Built in 1937 beneath Piazza Verdi, this network of tunnels protected civilians during Allied bombing raids targeting the city’s strategic naval facilities.

Multimedia experience. What makes this shelter unique is its transformation into an immersive historical exhibit. Walking through the dimly lit corridors, I encountered projections, sound effects, and historical photographs that recreate the atmosphere of wartime La Spezia.

Engineering marvel. I was impressed to learn that this shelter could accommodate up to 1,500 people and was equipped with its own power generator, water supply, and ventilation system. The 1.5-meter thick reinforced concrete walls and multiple emergency exits demonstrated the careful planning that went into protecting the city’s population.

The shelter tour highlights:

• Original wartime graffiti preserved on the walls
• Recreated living quarters showing daily life during raids
• Collection of period artifacts including gas masks and ration cards
• Interactive map showing the bombing campaign’s impact on La Spezia

Visitor tips:

• Tours run hourly and are available in English with advance booking
• The temperature underground stays cool year-round (bring a light jacket)
• Not recommended for those with claustrophobia or mobility issues

9. D-marin Porto Mirabello Marina

Luxury harbor. Just across the Thaon di Revel Bridge, I discovered the gleaming D-marin Porto Mirabello, one of the Mediterranean’s most sophisticated marinas. Opened in 2010, this state-of-the-art facility has transformed La Spezia’s waterfront with its blend of nautical services and upscale amenities.

Superyacht spotting. Walking along the pristine docks, I was awestruck by the collection of luxury vessels moored in the 100 berths designed specifically for superyachts up to 130 meters. Even for a non-sailor like me, the sleek lines and opulent designs of these floating palaces made for fascinating window shopping.

Shopping diversion. The marina complex houses a small but select collection of boutiques selling everything from designer swimwear to nautical-themed souvenirs. I found a beautiful handcrafted model boat for €45 that made a perfect memento of my visit to this maritime city.

What makes Porto Mirabello special:

• 24/7 security and exclusive atmosphere
• Panoramic swimming pool open to visitors (€15 day pass)
• Helicopter landing pad for the ultimate arrival
• Regular events and regattas during summer months

Outdoor Activities in La Spezia

1. The Stairways of La Spezia

Vertical exploration. One of my most unexpected discoveries in La Spezia was its network of historic stairways that connect the lower city to the hillside neighborhoods. These “creuze” (as they’re called in Ligurian dialect) offer both a practical way to navigate the city’s steep terrain and a journey through its architectural evolution.

Liberty-style gems. The Scalinata San Giorgio particularly captivated me with its elegant Liberty-style (Italian Art Nouveau) design. Built in the early 1900s, this ornate stairway features decorative ironwork, floral motifs, and colorful ceramic tiles that showcase the artistic flourishing of La Spezia during this period.

Local encounters. What made these climbs special was the glimpse into everyday Spezzino life. Elderly residents rested on benches built into the stairways, children played on the landings, and neighbors called to each other from windows overhead – scenes that tourists rushing between major attractions often miss.

The most impressive stairways to explore:

• Scalinata San Giorgio: The most ornate with Liberty-style decorations
• Scalinata Cernaia: The longest with the best views of the city
• Scalinata Quintino Sella: Connects the city center to the bomb shelter
• Via del Prione steps: Ancient steps in the heart of the old town

2. Parco della Mura

Hilltop haven. Seeking respite from the summer heat, I headed to Parco della Mura, a green sanctuary that follows the ridge above La Spezia. This urban park occupies the site of the city’s former defensive walls, combining historical significance with natural beauty.

Trail network. The park offers several well-marked hiking paths of varying difficulty. I chose the moderate 4km loop that took about 90 minutes to complete, winding through Mediterranean pine forests and emerging at strategic viewpoints overlooking the city and bay.

Fortress ruins. Along my hike, I encountered the atmospheric remains of 19th-century fortifications that once protected La Spezia. These crumbling stone structures, partially reclaimed by nature, created perfect frames for photographs of the panoramic vistas beyond.

Adventure tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the sometimes slippery stone steps
• Bring plenty of water, especially when hiking Parco della Mura in summer
• Download the “La Spezia Outdoor” app for detailed trail maps and points of interest

3. Harbor Area & Constantino Morin Promenade

Waterfront gem. The Constantino Morin Promenade quickly became my favorite spot in La Spezia for evening strolls. Named after the admiral and politician Constantino Morin, this beloved car-free walkway stretches along the waterfront just steps from the historic center, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the entire Gulf.

Palm-lined paradise. What makes this promenade so special is its double row of towering palm trees providing welcome shade during hot summer days. I found myself joining locals who gather here year-round – enjoying sunny winter afternoons or cooling evening breezes during the warmer months.

Panoramic vistas. Walking the full length of the promenade rewards you with spectacular views that sweep from the Apuan Alps on the eastern side of the Gulf to the verdant hills on the opposite shore. I spent hours here simply watching boats crisscross the harbor while the changing light transformed the seascape.

Festival atmosphere. If you’re lucky enough to visit in August, you’ll witness the excitement of the Palio del Golfo, the traditional rowing regatta where 13 teams representing different neighborhoods and villages compete in these waters on the first Sunday of the month. Even outside festival times, the promenade buzzes with local life.

Culinary Experiences in La Spezia

1. Food Tours & Local Specialties

Gastronomic adventure. To truly understand La Spezia, I discovered you must taste it. I joined a 3-hour food tour starting in Piazza Garibaldi that introduced me to the unique culinary heritage blending Ligurian and Tuscan influences. At €85 per person, this experience offers excellent value for serious food lovers.

Unique discoveries. The most fascinating dish I encountered was testaroli – a versatile dough that changes its name depending on preparation. When boiled and served with pesto, Parmesan and mushrooms, it’s called testaroli, but when baked with cold cuts and cheese, it becomes panigacci. The same base creates entirely different experiences!

Sweet finale. No culinary exploration would be complete without sampling La Spezia’s artisanal gelato. After five savory stops, the creamy sweetness provided the perfect conclusion to my food journey through this underrated gastronomic destination.

⭐ Best Activities

• Small Group Pasta and Tiramisù Class – Learn to make traditional pasta and tiramisù in this interactive cooking class led by a local chef.

2. Pesto-Making Classes

Hands-on tradition. Determined to bring home more than just souvenirs, I signed up for a pesto-making class at Glam Resort Villa Maria Luigia in central La Spezia. For approximately €47, this 90-minute experience taught me the authentic techniques behind Liguria’s most famous culinary export.

Premium ingredients. My instructor emphasized that exceptional pesto requires the finest components: fragrant basil from Prà, pine nuts from Pisa, aged Parmesan (40 months!), pecorino cheese, fresh garlic, coarse salt, and Ligurian extra virgin olive oil. The traditional marble mortar and wooden pestle were essential tools for the authentic experience.

Technique matters. I learned that proper pesto-making is as much about technique as ingredients. The basil leaves should never be washed or rubbed, but gently massaged with ice and drained. The rhythmic grinding motion takes practice – my arm muscles certainly felt the workout – but the resulting aroma was worth every effort.

Tasting reward. The class culminated in tasting my creation paired with local Cinque Terre DOC wine. The bright, herbaceous flavor of freshly made pesto bears no resemblance to store-bought versions. I received a participation certificate with a photo – but the real souvenir was the knowledge I could recreate this Ligurian classic at home.

Foodie tips:

• Book food tours early in your visit to discover restaurants worth returning to
• For the freshest seafood, follow locals to small eateries near the harbor
• Consider the mini cooking class option if you’re short on time but still want the pesto-making experience

⭐ Best Activities

• Levanto, Cinque Terre: Fresh Pasta and Pesto Cooking Class – Master the art of Ligurian pasta and pesto-making in this hands-on cooking class in Levanto, near Cinque Terre.

Day Trips from La Spezia

1. Villages in Cinque Terre from la Spezia

Gateway advantage. Using La Spezia as my base proved perfect for exploring the famous Cinque Terre. The city’s main train station offers frequent connections to all five villages, with travel times ranging from just 7 minutes (Riomaggiore) to 25 minutes (Monterosso). A day pass costs €18.20 and includes unlimited train travel between La Spezia and the villages.

Village hopping. I started my journey at Riomaggiore, with its colorful tower houses cascading down to a tiny harbor. Each village revealed its own distinct character – Manarola’s vineyards, Corniglia’s hilltop isolation, Vernazza’s natural harbor, and Monterosso’s beach scene. The contrast between these five communities surprised me despite their proximity.

Hiking heaven. While some trails were closed during my visit due to landslides, I managed to walk the spectacular section between Vernazza and Monterosso. This 2-hour trek challenged my fitness but rewarded me with breathtaking views of terraced vineyards plunging into the azure Mediterranean below.

Crowd strategy. My best tip? Reverse the typical route. Most day-trippers start at Riomaggiore and work northward, so I began at Monterosso and traveled south. This simple switch meant I enjoyed Vernazza’s picture-perfect harbor during the quieter late afternoon hours when the light was perfect for photography.

Must-try experiences in each village:

• Riomaggiore: Aperitivo at A Piè de Campu with harbor views
• Manarola: Swimming at the rocky cove beneath the village
• Corniglia: Gelato at Alberto Gelateria after climbing the 382 steps from the station
• Vernazza: Climbing to Doria Castle for panoramic views
• Monterosso: Relaxing on the only sandy beach in Cinque Terre

⭐ Best Tours

• Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour Experience – Witness the breathtaking sunset over Cinque Terre on this intimate small-group boat tour.
• Private Boat Tour to Cinque Terre and Portovenere – Enjoy a private luxury boat tour to explore the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre and Portovenere.
• Cinque Terre Boat Cruise to Riomaggiore and Monterosso – Discover the stunning coastline of Cinque Terre on this relaxing boat tour, perfect for exploring the beauty of Riomaggiore and Monterosso.

2. Portovenere Natural Park

UNESCO treasure. Just a 30-minute bus ride from La Spezia (Line 11, €2.50 each way), Portovenere captivated me with its perfect blend of natural beauty and medieval architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site feels more authentic than its famous Cinque Terre neighbors, with fewer crowds but equally stunning scenery.

Island exploration. From Portovenere’s harbor, I took a small boat (€12 round trip) to Palmaria Island, the largest of three islands in the natural park. The 2-hour circular hiking trail offered diverse landscapes – Mediterranean scrub, abandoned marble quarries, and secluded beaches where I stopped for a refreshing swim.

Poetic inspiration. Following in Lord Byron’s footsteps, I visited the grotto named after the English poet who supposedly swam across the gulf to visit his friend Shelley. While I didn’t attempt this daring swim, the dramatic rock formations and crystal-clear waters made it easy to understand why this spot inspired such romantic legends.

Architectural marvel. The highlight of Portovenere was undoubtedly the Church of San Pietro, perched dramatically on a rocky promontory. Built in 1277 on the ruins of a pagan temple, its striking black and white striped exterior exemplifies Genoese Gothic style. The panoramic terrace behind the church provided the perfect spot for watching the sunset over the islands.

3. Lerici & Sarzana

Contrasting charms. To experience two completely different facets of the region, I dedicated a day to visiting both Lerici and Sarzana. These neighboring towns – one a seaside resort, the other a medieval inland city – showcase the diversity of experiences available within a short distance from La Spezia.

Castle views. Climbing to Lerici Castle (€5 entrance) rewarded me with panoramic vistas and an interesting naval museum. Built between the 12th and 16th centuries, this fortress once controlled maritime traffic in the eastern Gulf. From its battlements, I could see all the way to Portovenere and the Cinque Terre in the distance.

Medieval treasure. Just 15 minutes from La Spezia by train (€2.70), Sarzana offered a complete change of scenery. This walled city charmed me with its well-preserved historic center, dominated by the impressive Firmafede Fortress. I spent hours wandering narrow streets lined with antique shops, boutiques, and artisan workshops selling unique handcrafted items.

Explorer tips:

• Purchase the Cinque Terre Card at La Spezia station to avoid long queues in the villages
• Check the boat schedule for Portovenere in advance as service is reduced in off-season
• Visit Sarzana on the third weekend of the month for its renowned antique market

Things to Do in La Spezia at Night

1. Evening Walks Along the Promenade

Sunset spectacle. As daylight fades, La Spezia transforms into a magical setting for evening strolls. I discovered that locals have perfected the art of the passeggiata (evening walk), particularly along the Morin Promenade. Around 7-9pm, families, couples, and friends emerge to enjoy the cooling sea breeze and spectacular sunset colors reflecting off the harbor waters.

Illuminated landmarks. The city takes on a different character after dark when strategic lighting accentuates its architectural features. The Thaon di Revel Bridge glows with soft blue illumination, while San Giorgio Castle stands dramatically lit on its hilltop perch, creating perfect photo opportunities for night photography enthusiasts.

Gelato ritual. No evening walk would be complete without the quintessential Italian gelato experience. I joined the queue at Gelateria Il Golosone on Via del Prione, where a medium cup with two flavors costs €3.50. Their pistachio and dark chocolate combination proved worth every cent and calorie!

Harbor ambiance. What struck me most during these evening explorations was the peaceful transformation of the working harbor. The same docks bustling with commercial activity during daylight hours become tranquil reflective pools mirroring the city lights, with only the occasional fishing boat returning with the day’s catch.

2. Local Bars & Restaurants

Aperitivo culture. I quickly embraced the Italian pre-dinner ritual of aperitivo, particularly at Bar Dante in Piazza Beverini. For €10-12, I received a spritz or negroni accompanied by an impressive spread of finger foods – enough to constitute a light dinner. The outdoor seating offered prime people-watching opportunities as locals gathered to socialize.

Wine discoveries. La Spezia introduced me to the distinctive wines of Liguria, particularly the crisp white Vermentino and the rare Sciacchetrà dessert wine from the Cinque Terre. At Enoteca La Cantina on Via Sapri, I enjoyed a guided tasting of three local wines paired with regional cheeses for €25 – a perfect introduction to the area’s viticultural traditions.

Late-night options. While La Spezia isn’t known for wild nightlife, I found several spots for after-dinner entertainment. Jazz Club La Spezia on Via Cernaia hosts live music several nights a week (€10 cover includes one drink), while Bar Tripoli near the train station attracts a younger crowd with DJ sets on weekends.

The best evening dining options include:

• Osteria da Bartali: Traditional Ligurian seafood in the historic center
• Trattoria dai Pescatori: No-frills eatery where local fishermen bring their daily catch
• La Pia Centenaria: Famous for farinata and other Ligurian street food until late evening
• Pizzeria Il Tagliere: Wood-fired pizzas with outdoor seating on a quiet piazza

⭐ Best Activities

• La Spezia: 4 Wines Degustation – Savor four premium local wines in this guided tasting experience paired with regional delicacies in a cozy setting.

Seasonal Activities & Events in La Spezia

1. Palio del Golfo (August)

Maritime tradition. My visit fortunately coincided with La Spezia’s most important annual event – the Palio del Golfo. Held on the first Sunday of August since 1925, this traditional rowing competition sees 13 borgate (neighborhoods) competing in hand-crafted wooden boats along a 2,000-meter course in the bay.

Colorful festivities. The race itself proved spectacular, but what truly impressed me was the week-long celebration leading up to it. Each evening featured different borgate parading through the streets in elaborate costumes representing historical or mythological themes. The creativity and community pride on display created an electric atmosphere throughout the city.

Waterfront celebration. Race day transformed the Morin Promenade into a festival ground with food stalls, craft markets, and musical performances. I joined thousands of spectators lining the waterfront, many proudly wearing their neighborhood’s colors and waving flags. The excitement reached fever pitch during the final sprint, with supporters cheering themselves hoarse.

Fireworks finale. The Palio culminated in a breathtaking fireworks display over the Gulf of La Spezia. Launched from barges in the harbor, the 30-minute spectacle illuminated the night sky with cascades of color reflecting off the water. Finding a spot on the promenade early (around 8pm) ensured I had a perfect view of this unforgettable conclusion.

2.  Summer Festivals & Markets

Evening markets. Throughout summer months (June-September), La Spezia hosts evening markets along the waterfront and in Piazza Cavour. I browsed stalls selling everything from artisanal ceramics and leather goods to local honey and olive oil. These markets typically run from 6pm until midnight, creating a festive atmosphere as temperatures cool.

Music under stars. The summer cultural calendar features numerous open-air concerts in atmospheric settings. I attended a classical performance in the courtyard of San Giorgio Castle (tickets €15-25) where the combination of virtuoso musicians, historical surroundings, and perfect acoustics created a magical evening.

Food festivals. Sagre (food festivals) celebrate seasonal specialties throughout summer. The Sagra del Muscolo in July focuses on the local mussels farmed in the Gulf, with cooking demonstrations and tasting menus offered at special prices in participating restaurants. A plate of spaghetti with mussels and a glass of local white wine cost around €15.

Cinema experience. One of my most memorable evenings was spent at Cinema Sotto le Stelle (Cinema Under the Stars), held in the Public Gardens. For just €7, I watched an Italian film with English subtitles while relaxing on provided chairs under the night sky. The concession stand offered wine, craft beer, and local snacks at reasonable prices.

Festival tips:

• Book accommodations months in advance if visiting during Palio weekend
• Bring a light jacket for evening events as sea breezes can be cool even in summer
• Download the “La Spezia Eventi” app for up-to-date festival calendars and locations

❓ FAQ

How can I spend one day in La Spezia?

Explore the historic centre, visit the Civic Museum, and enjoy a walk along the promenade. A day can give you a great overview of the city’s charm and nearby sites.

What are the best beaches near La Spezia?

Monterosso al Mare offers sandy beaches, while Portovenere has rocky coves perfect for swimming. Both are easily accessible and worth a visit for their beauty.

How can I see Cinque Terre from La Spezia?

Take a train or ferry to discover the villages of Cinque Terre, starting with Riomaggiore or Vernazza. Both options are quick and convenient for day trips.

Is La Spezia suitable for cruise passengers?

Yes, its cruise terminal is within walking distance of the main attractions. From here, you can easily explore the city or take excursions to nearby destinations.