Top 15 Attractions and Activities in La Spezia, Italy

La Spezia is a significant port city located on the western coast of Italy, in close proximity to Pisa, Genoa, and Florence. This city serves as a vital stop for Mediterranean cruise ships, with many passengers disembarking at La Spezia prior to visiting other destinations in the Liguria region. Aside from its commercial port operations, La Spezia is also a prominent military center, housing the majority of the Italian Navy. The city’s population amounts to 93,000, making it the second-largest municipality in Liguria. La Spezia has experienced continuous settlement since the prehistoric era and stood as a crucial trade center during the Roman Empire. Throughout its extensive history, La Spezia has maintained its status as a significant stronghold and remains a key port in Italy.

As a tourist destination, La Spezia boasts a remarkable blend of historical architecture, stunning landscapes, and exceptional nearby sites. Owing to its strategic location, La Spezia is an ideal base for exploring Liguria and Tuscany, with accessible train services to Pisa, Florence, and Genoa. Moreover, La Spezia is situated near the renowned Cinque Terre region, where day trips to explore this spectacular area are readily available.

Let’s explore the best things to do in La Spezia:

1. The Waterfront

La Spezia’s waterfront is indeed picturesque, showcasing outstanding scenery and attractions. The port area near the Centro Storico and Porto Mirabello offers excellent opportunities for leisurely strolls, observing people, and reveling in pleasant weather.

The Passeggiata Costantino Morin, located at the edge of the waterfront, is adorned with trees and provides magnificent views of the harbor. Additionally, the waterfront includes several artificial inlets and canals that deliver an excellent vantage point for witnessing the various commercial and passenger vessels in action.

It is advisable to wander down to the waterfront and commence your exploration!

2. The Naval Technical Museum

This museum is one of the foremost naval institutions in Italy, providing a genuinely fascinating experience for visitors of all ages. Positioned to the west of Porto Mirabello and the waterfront, the museum is situated in a grand edifice that features remarkable displays and artifacts.

The museum’s primary goal is to educate the public about the technical dimensions of the Italian naval forces and their equipment. You can explore an extensive range of objects, including cannons, diving suits, model ships, and even control panels from battleships. This establishment effectively conveys the history of the Italian Navy and provides insights into its development.

3. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a globally recognized stretch of coastline located not far from La Spezia, characterized by breathtaking landscapes and picturesque villages that cling to hillsides and cliffs. A visit to this area of Italy would be incomplete without experiencing its idyllic scenery.

Prominent villages include Vernazza, Manarola, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso al Mare. These villages boast charming houses adorned in a myriad of colors, cascading down towards the shoreline. Guided tours are readily available, and boat tours that stop at several villages are also offered. For those less inclined towards bus tours, a train route originating from La Spezia connects to four of the five destinations.

4. Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta

This basilica is one of La Spezia’s most significant and recognizable churches. Although it was originally constructed in the 15th century, it was not completed until 1954 and has undergone restoration and modifications over the centuries. The façade features a striking green and white striped marble design akin to other churches in the region. Inside, visitors can appreciate stunning marble statues of prominent religious figures as well as exquisite historical paintings.

5. San Giorgio Castle

This castle is a prominent landmark in La Spezia, boasting a rich history spanning centuries. Originally part of the city’s defensive fortifications, it was established in the 13th century by Nicolo Fieschi. San Giorgio Castle is characterized by its typical square architecture, complete with four diagonal guard towers popular during that era. A portion of the original wall remains intact, providing an archway for the main thoroughfare. Inside the castle, an archaeological museum showcases various artifacts from this region, dating back to the Copper Age and Roman settlements.

6. Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere

Adjacent to Isola Palmaria is the Porto Venere Natural Park, which includes not only Palmaria but also Tino, Tinetto, and the Cinque Terre Islands within its boundaries. Opposite Palmaria lies the charming port of Portovenere, where the stunning Doria Castle stands majestically against the backdrop of the town’s beautiful homes. Ascending the slopes from the port provides breathtaking views of the Gulf of La Spezia and the remnants of the Forte del Muzzerone. Furthermore, excursions to the islands of Tino and Tinetto unveil breathtaking caves and the partially submerged statue of Stella Maris.

7. Isola Palmaria

At the southernmost tip of the Gulf of La Spezia lies Palmaria Island, an excellent destination for exploration boasting diverse flora and fauna. The island’s cliffs conceal various hidden caves, including the stunning Marble and Blue Caves. The coastline is dramatic, and boat tours around the island offer an exceptional opportunity to appreciate its unique landscape. During the summer months, ferries operate from La Spezia and Lerici, arriving at the island’s northern side, which features picturesque pebble beaches, fishing boats, and a selection of restaurants and amenities. A getaway to Palmaria is a refreshing escape from the bustling city.

8. Visit the Village of Biassa

Located just a short distance from the center of La Spezia, Biassa is a charming village home to about 650 residents. It provides an excellent opportunity to glimpse local life, as the village remains largely unaltered and continues to adhere to traditional lifestyles. Biassa offers magnificent views of the surrounding countryside, and a brief walk to the right of the village leads to the ruins of the unfinished Coderone Castle. The artistic church of San Martino, with its Romanesque façade and exquisite wooden carvings inside, is an additional highlight. Biassa is a delightful stop along the route to Cinque Terre and has much to offer its visitors.

9. Parco Giardini Pubblici

This splendid public garden, located by the waterfront, is a delightful place to traverse while exploring the La Spezia area. The gardens span a considerable area and feature a series of walkways lined with beautiful trees. Sections of the garden run alongside the Passeggiata Costantino Morin, providing a serene setting to relax.

Apart from the walkways, several monuments, statues, and water features enhance the garden’s ambiance. During a stroll through the historic city center, the gardens are a noteworthy attraction and a perfect place to recharge between sightseeing excursions.

10. Ponte Thaon di Revel

The waterfront and harbor are replete with impressive structures and monuments, with the Ponte Thaon di Revel standing out as particularly remarkable. This elegant modern bridge crosses part of the harbor and facilitates a walkway connecting the public gardens to Porto Mirabello. Supported by a collection of white cables, the bridge is visually striking, with its central section designed to rise to accommodate larger vessels entering the harbor. As you wander through the harbor, this bridge serves as a delightful focal point, offering stunning views from its middle section.

11. Visit the Town of Lerici

Situated across the bay from La Spezia, the captivating coastal town of Lerici is a mere 8 kilometers away. Access to Lerici can be achieved by boat from Portovenere or along the scenic coastal road SP331. The harbor is a mesmerizing sight, showcasing numerous fishing and sailing boats while providing insight into the daily routines of local residents.

Key attractions in Lerici include Lerici Castle, the harbor, the beach, and the main piazza located on Via Giuseppe Mazzini. Additionally, various restaurants, cafes, and amenities are available, making it a perfect destination for a day visit or a leisurely meal by the seaside.

12. Chiesa di Nostra Signora della Neve

Continuing the theme of striped green and white exteriors, the Church of Our Lady of the Snow features a façade reminiscent of the renowned cathedral in Florence. Two petite bell towers flank the church, while intricate sculptures adorn the main entrance. Despite the resemblance to a Renaissance-era structure, this church was constructed in the 19th century and completed in 1901. Conveniently located on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, this church is easily accessible and represents yet another captivating architectural feature in La Spezia.

13. Enjoy a Meal at La Taverna del Metallo

La Spezia is home to numerous quality dining establishments, with La Taverna del Metallo being notably popular. Situated conveniently close to the waterfront, this restaurant and bar features a rustic décor characterized by exposed stone and brick walls, along with wooden tables and chairs. The menu comprises hearty dishes that are sure to satiate your appetite.

Moreover, an extensive selection of beers, ales, lagers, and wines are available. The establishment also plays rock and metal music, which adds to the ambiance while remaining tastefully subdued.

14. Enjoy Breakfast at the Orange Café

If you’re seeking a place to unwind and enjoy a coffee amidst a busy day of exploration, the Orange Café is an excellent choice. Situated a short distance from the public gardens, this café is a delightful stop during your journey through the city center. The breakfast options come highly recommended, featuring pastries, croissants, sandwiches, and freshly squeezed orange juice.

In addition, the café boasts a broad selection of coffee, tea, and juice for those in need of refreshment. The friendly staff, welcoming atmosphere, and soft jazz music further enhance the experience as you indulge in high-quality food and beverages.

15. Parco Nazionale dell’Appennino Tosco-Emiliano

This national park primarily consists of mountainous terrain and features expansive landscapes and breathtaking scenery. Located approximately 40 minutes northeast of La Spezia, the Appennino Tosco-Emiliano National Park is an exceptional location for exploration and adventure.

Noteworthy mountains within the park include Monte Prado, Monte Cusna, and Alpe di Succiso. The park is also home to vast areas of high-mountain grassland and hidden lakes. Wildlife commonly encountered here includes wolves, deer, and even the golden eagle. Information on the park can be obtained from tourist offices in La Spezia, making it an ideal destination for hiking, cycling, and nature treks.