Centred around the vibrant port city of La Spezia, the Province of La Spezia hugs the Ligurian Sea on the north-west coast of Italy. Within its bounds is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Portovenere, Cinque Terre and the Islands, which is recognised for its scenic and cultural significance.
Things to do in La Spezia
World-class museums, idyllic islands and enchanting villages - the Province of La Spezia has it all.
Visit La Spezia’s museum. Settled since prehistoric times, La Spezia overlooks a sheltered harbour and is one of the largest cities in Liguria. History buffs can head to the 14th-century Castello San Giorgio, which houses a fascinating archaeological museum. Don’t miss the Naval Technical Museum, where model ships, antique diving suites and cannons are on display. At the Museo Civico Amedeo Lia, you’ll find an outstanding collection of fine art.
Hike the Cinque Terre. One of Italy’s most visited stretches of coastline, the Cinque Terre comprises the five seaside villages of Vernazza, Manarola, Riomaggiore, Corniglia and Monterosso al Mare. Colourful houses and historic churches cluster in each, together with traditional trattorias serving the local specialty, seafood. The Sentiero Azzurro hiking trail winds its way between the villages, taking in sun-drenched vineyards and lemon groves along its route.
Explore Porto Venere Natural Park. Centred around the remains of a 19th-century fort, Porto Venere Natural Park is an area of rugged cliffs and grottos to the south of La Spezia. Climb to the Forte del Muzzerone for sweeping views across the Gulf of La Spezia or explore the hidden caves of Isola Palmaria. Further afield lie the small islands of Tino and Tinetto, home to a partially submerged statue of the Virgin Mary.
Getting around La Spezia
The Province of La Spezia is around an hour’s drive from Genoa and Christopher Columbus Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Florence Airport, Peretola is one hour away. Trains connect from major Italian cities to the La Spezia railway station while local services connect to towns and villages throughout the province. Buses are also available for getting around.