With a lively waterfront and streets bustling with local activities, this port town emanates energy. It also has historical and cultural landmarks.
Get off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the vibrant environment of La Spezia. This naval city serves as a gateway to the Cinque Terre coast’s lovely settlements. A lovely port, art nouveau-style homes, excellent museums, and interesting churches make La Spezia a worthwhile vacation in its own right.
The city is nestled between the olive-tree-studded slopes of the Ligurian Apennines and the deep blue seas of the Gulf of La Spezia. The city’s pedestrianized grid structure makes it simple to go around on foot. Head to the deep-water harbor and watch the ferrymen, fisherman, and visitors dock. Then take a stroll along the palm-fringed promenade for stunning views of the rocky coast.
The territory around La Spezia has been occupied from prehistoric times, with traces of Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Roman sites. The museums in town will teach you about the town’s varied history. Examine historical items atCastello San Giorgio andMuseo Civico Etnografico Giovanni Podenzana, or learn about the city’s naval history atMuseo Tecnico Navale.
Wind your way through the small streets of La Spezia’s Old Town to see the Cattedrale di Cristo Re, the Church of Santi Giovanni e Agostino, and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. The latter houses an excellent collection of well-known religious artworks.
Visitors to the famed Museo Civico Amedeo Lia should also pay a visit to see great Renaissance pieces by Tintoretto, Titian, and others. Stop by Piazza Cavour’s covered market for snacks or supper supplies.
To get to La Spezia, take the train or drive from a large Italian city. Leave your car here and take a regional hike-and-ride rail journey year-round or a passenger ferry in the summer to Cinque Terre for a daytrip or longer visit.
La Spezia, with its outstanding museums and vibrant urban atmosphere, is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a real Mediterranean experience.