La Spezia
A lively naval city at the gateway to Cinque Terre and the Gulf of Poets.
About La Spezia
La Spezia is far more than just a Cinque Terre gateway, though it is the most practical base for visiting the five villages. This friendly naval city wraps around a gorgeous natural harbour—the Gulf of La Spezia, romantically known as the Gulf of Poets after Byron and Shelley who lived on its shores. The centro storico is dotted with excellent restaurants, a vibrant daily market, and several worthwhile museums. The city itself has a relaxed, lived-in quality that contrasts refreshingly with the tourism of Cinque Terre just up the coast. Ferries depart for the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto—a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering hiking and wild swimming far from the crowds.
Best Time to Visit
May to September. Spring and early autumn are ideal for combining Cinque Terre with the Gulf of Poets. The festival season in July and August brings outdoor concerts and events to the waterfront.
Local Tips
- Base yourself here for Cinque Terre.
Hotels in La Spezia cost half what they do in the five villages, and trains run every 15 minutes. A local will plan your Cinque Terre days to avoid the worst crowds and suggest the village to start from.
- Ferry to Palmaria Island.
The island across the harbour from Portovenere offers hiking trails, sea caves, and deserted beaches. A local knows the best swimming spots and the timing to have the island almost to yourself.
- Eat at the market.
La Spezia's Piazza Cavour market sells fresh seafood, Ligurian focaccia, and local produce. A local knows the best stalls and the fried seafood counter where fishermen eat their lunch.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Andrea
Latina, Rome +13
I'm Andrea, I have visited over 50 countries around the world. I speak English and Spanish, and traveling has always been my way of truly understanding how places work, not just seeing them. Despite this, Italy remains the place I'm most attached to. I've always lived and worked there, and over the years I've traveled extensively throughout the country: not as a tourist, but by immersing myself in local dynamics, getting to know the people, businesses, and regions firsthand. This is precisely what makes the difference. I've built a solid network of local contacts throughout Italy: entrepreneurs, professionals, and reliable operators, people I've worked with or know directly. These aren't generic suggestions, but real connections. I love Italy because it's incredibly diverse: each area has its own identity, rules, and opportunities. It's a country that can offer so much, but only if you know how to navigate it. I've invested years learning this firsthand, and today I can guide people in a practical, direct, and effective way. In short: I don't just offer advice, but access to a proven local network and concrete knowledge of the area!
Dina
Bolzano, Florence +13
5.0(1)Ciao a tutti! I am your local guide and travel designer right here in Florence! and there is nothing that I love more than hunting for those hidden gems off the beaten path. When I travel I plan for unforgettable spots, happy experiences and food that leaves a lasting memory. Pick me as your travel designer! I promise the best food, culture, history and wine. I focus entirely on your interest to make this trip yours. Let's personalized your journey and create your unforgettable travel.