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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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

The Thaon di Revel bridge, a splendid piece of modern architecture, graces the port of La Spezia with its presence. Spanning 150 meters in length, this pedestrian bridge was erected in July 2013, serving as a remarkable link between the Morin promenade and the Mirabella marina. Crafted from a combination of steel, concrete, and wood, […]

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Location: Thaon Di Revel, Italy | Distance: 0.20km

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Visiting Thaon di Revel Bridge

CAMeC - Centro Arte Moderna e Contemporanea

Nestled within the historical heart of La Spezia stands the CAMEC – Center of Modern and Contemporary Art, an artistic haven ensconced within a 1920s building that once served as the seat of Justice. This dynamic institution boasts a remarkable and diverse array of artworks, solidifying its role as a hub for modern and contemporary […]

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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: 0.30km

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Visiting CAMeC - Centro Arte Moderna e Contemporanea

Naval Technical Museum La Spezia

In the 1860s, the Italian navy established a significant base in La Spezia, which later evolved into one of its foremost dockyards and arsenals. The inception of the museum traces back to the 18th century, when a collection of naval artifacts associated with the royal house of Savoy found its home at Villafranca and subsequently […]

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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: 0.30km

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Visiting Naval Technical Museum La Spezia

San Giorgio Castle

The Castle of San Giorgio, perched above La Spezia, boasts a lineage that harks back to a watchtower’s inception. The first semblance of the castle emerged in 1262, crafted by the region’s ruler Nicolò Fieschi. This stronghold served the purpose of fortifying his dominance over the territory. Presently, only the foundational segment of the original […]

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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: 0.50km

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Visiting San Giorgio Castle

Civic Museum of the Seal

Situated within the captivating historic center of La Spezia, the Civic Museum of the Seal finds its abode within the venerable confines of the Paolotti convent, a structure steeped in 17th-century history. This museum’s inception took place in the year 2000, a testament to the generous donation from Lilian and Euro Capellini. Their unwavering dedication […]

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Location: Via del Prione, 236, La Spezia, SP, Liguria, Italy | Hours: Daily: 10:00 - 18:00 Closed Monday | Price: €3.50 | Website | Distance: 0.70km

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Visiting Civic Museum of the Seal

Amedeo Lia Civic Museum, La Spezia

At the vibrant core of La Spezia stands the Civic Art Museum, a treasure trove housing a constellation of artworks that span across centuries. This remarkable repository boasts approximately 1000 masterpieces, dating from the Middle Ages to the 18th century, comprising an array of sculptures, ceramics, bronze pieces, and delicate glassware. However, the true essence […]

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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: 0.70km

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Visiting Amedeo Lia Civic Museum, La Spezia

Roman villa of Varignano

The Roman Villa of Varignano enjoys a truly idyllic setting, nestled at the base of a picturesque valley adorned with water sources. It graciously overlooks the sea, enveloped by an estate adorned with olive groves, and quite possibly enriched with woodlands and pasturelands. Archaeological endeavours have unveiled an expansive villa with a private harbor, its […]

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Location: Varignano Roman Villa, Via Varignano Vecchio, Le Grazie, Portovenere, SP, Italy | Distance: 4.50km

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Visiting Roman villa of Varignano

Porta del Borgo, Porto Venere

The “Porta del Borgo” of Porto Venere stands as a historical gateway, adorned with a significant Latin inscription “Colonia Januensis 1113.” This inscription serves as a reminder of the year 1113 when Portovenere was fortified by the Republic of Genoa, thus assuming a vital role as a defensive stronghold against the Maritime Republic of Pisa. […]

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Location: Porta del Borgo, Porto Venere, SP, Italy | Distance: 5.70km

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Visiting Porta del Borgo, Porto Venere

Castello Doria

Castello Doria stands as a commanding fortress, perched atop a rocky hill that gracefully oversees the coastal village of Portovenere. It stands as a resplendent exemplar of military architecture hailing from the Republic of Genoa. Historical threads weave into the castle’s narrative, with its origins rooted in an ancient fortress that occupied the terrain. The […]

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Location: Via dei Mulini, 19025 Porto Venere, SP, Italy | Hours: Daily 10:00 to 17:30 | Price: €5.00 | Website | Distance: 5.80km

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Visiting Castello Doria

Church of San Pietro (Porto Venere)

The Church of San Pietro stands as an ancient testament to devotion, perched on a rugged promontory in Portovenere that gazes out upon the captivating Gulf of Poets. History of Church of San Pietro (Porto Venere) The foundations of the original church trace back to an ancient pagan temple dedicated to the goddess Venus Erycina. […]

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Location: Chiesa di San Pietro in Portovenere, Piazza Lazzaro Spallanzani, Porto Venere, SP, Italy | Website | Distance: 6.10km

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Visiting Church of San Pietro (Porto Venere)

Porto Venere Regional Natural Park

The promontory cradling the charming village of Portovènere, stretching towards the Albana valley, and the protective embrace of the marine area that enfolds the Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto islands together constitute the realm of the Porto Venere Regional Natural Park. Encompassing 400 hectares of extraordinary environmental, scenic, and historical significance, this sanctuary earned the prestigious […]

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Location: Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere, Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, Porto Venere, SP, Italy | Website | Distance: 6.80km

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Visiting Porto Venere Regional Natural Park