La Spezia: The Complete Guide

La Spezia, positioned in the far-eastern reaches of Liguria, stands as the region’s largest and most densely populated city. However, its allure lies not only in its intrinsic attractions but also in its proximity to the splendid villages adorning the enchanting Gulf of Poets.
Often, La Spezia merely brushes against the bustling tide of tourists drawn by the illustrious charms of destinations like the Cinque Terre, Lerici, and Porto Venere. Yet, venturing into the heart of La Spezia can yield delightful surprises, thanks to its captivating museums, vibrant city center, and breathtaking vistas that unveil the expansive Gulf, framed against the majestic backdrop of the Apuan Alps.
Embarking on a multi-day sojourn in La Spezia while using it as a base for exploring the surroundings can prove to be a brilliant notion. This approach allows one to fully appreciate the beauty of this Ligurian stretch, while also keeping expenses in check. The city offers an array of affordable lodging options, including budget-friendly hotels and apartments, which facilitates an economical exploration of the region’s attractions.
History of La Spezia
Portovenere, a picturesque seaside village on the Italian Riviera, near the Cinque Terre, has a rich and layered history that dates back thousands of years. The area’s strategic position and natural beauty have made it a coveted location throughout the ages.
Ancient and Roman Periods
The history of Portovenere begins in ancient times. It was first inhabited by the Ligures, an ancient Indo-European people who settled in northeastern Italy. Later, the Romans took interest in Portovenere’s strategic maritime position. They named the town Portus Veneris, attributing it to the goddess Venus. The remains of a Roman villa overlooking the bay point to the town’s significance during Roman times.
Medieval Importance
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Portovenere passed through the hands of various powers, including the Byzantines and Lombards. In the Middle Ages, it became increasingly important as a naval base. In the 12th century, the Republic of Genoa took control of Portovenere. The Genoese fortified the town and built the impressive Doria Castle on a rocky promontory to protect the bay from pirates and rival maritime powers like Pisa and Venice.
Genoese Era
Under Genoese rule, Portovenere flourished. The construction of St. Peter’s Church in 1198, a striking Gothic-style church perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the sea, symbolized the town’s prosperity and strategic importance. The church and the castle together formed a formidable defense system for the Gulf of Poets.
Modern Era
Over the centuries, Portovenere’s strategic importance waned, and it transitioned into a fishing village, known for its quaint beauty and spectacular natural surroundings. By the 20th century, it became a renowned destination for artists, writers, and tourists, drawn by its historic charm and stunning landscapes. The town’s picturesque harbor, lined with colorful houses and narrow medieval streets, has made it a favorite subject for painters and photographers.
UNESCO Recognition
In 1997, Portovenere, along with the islands of Palmaria, Tino, Tinetto, and the Cinque Terre, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition has helped preserve the architectural and natural heritage of the area, promoting sustainable tourism and protecting its historical sites.
Cultural Legacy
The Gulf of Poets, named for the literary figures like Lord Byron and Percy Bysshe Shelley who were inspired by the area’s beauty, adds to the cultural mystique of Portovenere. The Byron’s Grotto, a rocky alcove where the poet is said to have composed poetry, remains a popular site for visitors.
Today, Portovenere remains a blend of its rich historical tapestry and modern touristic appeal, offering a unique glimpse into the past while providing the amenities and experiences sought by contemporary travelers. Its history, architecture, and natural beauty continue to enchant and attract visitors from around the world.
Visiting La Spezia for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in La Spezia on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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11 Best places to See in La Spezia
This complete guide to La Spezia not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in La Spezia and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Thaon di Revel Bridge

Location: Thaon Di Revel, Italy | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Thaon di Revel Bridge
Naval Technical Museum La Spezia

Location: Technical Naval Museum of Spezia, Viale Giovanni Amendola, La Spezia, Italy | Hours: Daily 08:30am to 07:30pm. Closed Tuesdays | Price: €1.55 | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Naval Technical Museum La Spezia
CAMeC - Centro Arte Moderna e Contemporanea

Location: CAMeC - Centro Arte Moderna e Contemporanea, Piazza Cesare Battisti, La Spezia, SP, Italy | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 11.00 - 18.00 | Price: € 5.00 | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting CAMeC - Centro Arte Moderna e Contemporanea
San Giorgio Castle

Location: Castello San Giorgio, Via XXVII Marzo, La Spezia, SP, Italy | Hours: Winter: from Wednesday to Sunday 10.00-12.30 / 14-17; Tuesday 10-17. Spring/Autumn: Monday to Sunday 10:00-12:30 / 14:00 - 17:00 Summer: Monday to Sunday 10:30-17:00. | Price: Adult:€ 5.50 | Website | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting San Giorgio Castle
Civic Museum of the Seal

Location: Via del Prione, 236, La Spezia, SP, Liguria, Italy | Hours: Daily: 10:00 - 18:00 Closed Monday | Price: €3.50 | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Civic Museum of the Seal
Amedeo Lia Civic Museum, La Spezia

Location: Museo Civico Amedeo Lia, Via del Prione, La Spezia, SP, Italy | Hours: Daily 10:00 - 18:00 Closed Mondays | Price: € 8.00 | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Amedeo Lia Civic Museum, La Spezia
Roman villa of Varignano

Location: Varignano Roman Villa, Via Varignano Vecchio, Le Grazie, Portovenere, SP, Italy | Distance: 4.5km
Visiting Roman villa of Varignano
Porta del Borgo, Porto Venere

Location: Porta del Borgo, Porto Venere, SP, Italy | Distance: 5.7km
Visiting Porta del Borgo, Porto Venere
Castello Doria

Location: Via dei Mulini, 19025 Porto Venere, SP, Italy | Hours: Daily 10:00 to 17:30 | Price: €5.00 | Website | Distance: 5.8km
Visiting Castello Doria
Church of San Pietro (Porto Venere)

Location: Chiesa di San Pietro in Portovenere, Piazza Lazzaro Spallanzani, Porto Venere, SP, Italy | Website | Distance: 6.1km
Visiting Church of San Pietro (Porto Venere)
Porto Venere Regional Natural Park

Location: Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere, Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, Porto Venere, SP, Italy | Website | Distance: 6.8km
Visiting Porto Venere Regional Natural Park
Best Time to Visit La Spezia
La Spezia, located in the Liguria region of Italy, is a bustling port city known for its maritime history, charming waterfront, and proximity to the stunning Cinque Terre coastline. Here’s a guide to the best time to visit La Spezia:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is a wonderful time to visit La Spezia as the weather begins to warm up, and the surrounding hillsides burst into bloom with colorful flowers and greenery. This season is ideal for exploring the city’s historic center, strolling along the waterfront promenade, and enjoying panoramic views of the Gulf of La Spezia. Spring also offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby Cinque Terre National Park and boat trips to the picturesque villages of Portovenere and Lerici.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in La Spezia, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. This is the best time to enjoy La Spezia’s beautiful beaches, including the sandy shores of San Terenzo and the rocky coves of the Gulf of Poets. Summer also brings a variety of cultural events and festivals to La Spezia, including music concerts, art exhibitions, and food fairs. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this time.
- Fall (September to November): Fall is another great time to visit La Spezia, as the weather remains pleasant, and the summer crowds begin to dissipate. This season is ideal for exploring the city’s museums and galleries, such as the Naval Museum and the Amedeo Lia Museum, without the long lines. Fall also offers opportunities for food and wine tasting, as well as olive oil tours, in the surrounding countryside.
- Winter (December to February): Winter in La Spezia is relatively quiet, with fewer tourists and cooler temperatures. While the weather may be cooler, winter still offers opportunities for scenic walks along the waterfront, exploring the city’s historic landmarks, and enjoying cozy meals in local restaurants. Winter is also a great time to visit La Spezia’s indoor attractions, such as the Palazzo delle Arti, which hosts exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.
Ultimately, the best time to visit La Spezia depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. Whether you’re interested in beach relaxation, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, La Spezia has something to offer for every traveler throughout the year.
Average Temperatures in La Spezia
- January 12°C 54°F 17
- February 13°C 55°F 19
- March 15°C 59°F 15
- April 18°C 64°F 12
- May 21°C 70°F 12
- June 26°C 79°F 8
- July 30°C 86°F 4
- August 29°C 84°F 7
- September 25°C 77°F 13
- October 21°C 70°F 24
- November 16°C 61°F 28
- December 13°C 55°F 22
How to get to La Spezia
You can easily travel to La Spezia by various means of transportation:
Flying to La Spezia: Although La Spezia doesn’t have its airport, two nearby airports serve the region. Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei) is located 85 kilometers away, while Genoa Airport (Cristoforo Colombo) is 110 kilometers away. Both airports offer flights to major Italian and European cities and are accessible by car or train.
Visiting La Spezia by Train: La Spezia boasts an important railway station, La Spezia Centrale, which serves as a hub for various railway lines, including the La Spezia – Parma and Genoa – Rome routes. The city also features two additional train stations, La Spezia Migliarina and Ca’ di Boschetti, facilitating travel within the city. Fourteen other stations within the province of La Spezia connect the city to destinations like Cinque Terre.
Visiting La Spezia by Car: La Spezia is easily accessible by road via state roads 62 ‘Cisa,’ linking the region with Emilia and northern Italy, and state road 1 ‘Aurelia,’ connecting Rome to Ventimiglia. Nearby motorways A15 (Parma – La Spezia) and A12 (Genoa – Livorno) provide additional road access.
These transportation options offer convenient ways to reach La Spezia and explore its surrounding attractions along the stunning Ligurian coastline.