Things To Do
in La Spezia
La Spezia is a picturesque port city located in the Liguria region of Italy. It is known for its stunning coastline, colorful buildings, and bustling harbor. The city is a popular starting point for exploring the nearby Cinque Terre villages and Portovenere.
Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, charming historic streets, and beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea in La Spezia.
- "Ciao" - Hello
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- đ˝ď¸ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đď¸ââď¸ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious Italian breakfast at a local cafĂŠ. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade for beautiful views of the harbor.
Visit the Museo Tecnico Navale to learn about the maritime history of the area. Then, explore the charming streets filled with shops and local artisan stalls.
Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking the sea. Afterward, take an evening walk to soak in the vibrant nightlife of La Spezia.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a hike in the nearby Cinque Terre. The trails offer stunning coastal views and a chance to see the picturesque villages.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature or dine in one of the coastal towns. Spend time exploring the hidden gems along the hiking paths.
Return to La Spezia in the evening and relax at a wine bar with a glass of local Vermentino. Enjoy a light dinner featuring regional specialties.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and proximity to the Cinque Terre
- Rich cultural history and charming architecture
- Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood
- Less crowded compared to other tourist destinations in Italy
- Good transportation connections to other cities and regions
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Can be touristy during peak seasons
- Some areas may be steep and challenging for those with mobility issues
- Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter
- Higher accommodation prices during the summer months
Best Activities in La Spezia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and coastal views of Cinque Terre National Park.
Enjoy a relaxing boat tour of the picturesque Gulf of Poets, taking in the stunning coastline and charming villages.
Discover the underwater world and marine life around Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Hike, swim, or simply relax on the tranquil Palmaria Island, an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Tours
Uncover the best of La Spezia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in La Spezia
Visit one of these nice places.
Located on a hill overlooking La Spezia, offering panoramic views of the city and the Gulf of La Spezia.
A scenic waterfront promenade with views of the harbor and the surrounding coastline, perfect for photo opportunities.
Situated on a hilltop with stunning views of the city and the sea, providing beautiful backdrops for photos.
Food in La Spezia
La Spezia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Ligurian dish made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, usually served over trofie pasta. For an authentic taste, visit Osteria Della Corte in the old town.
Must-Try!
A hearty fish stew made with a variety of seafood, tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sample an excellent version at Trattoria da Maria in the waterfront area.
A simple yet tasty chickpea pancake, best enjoyed at Pizzeria La Stadera where it's cooked in a wood-fired oven.
Unique Experiences
Get to know La Spezia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling indoor market offers a wide selection of fresh local produce, cheese, cured meats, and seafood. Don't miss the opportunity to try panigacci, a local specialty resembling thin unleavened bread, at one of the stalls.
Head to this square to experience La Spezia's street food scene. Try testaroli, a type of pancake made from an ancient recipe, and explore the array of food trucks offering fried seafood, arancini, and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In La Spezia, it is important to greet people with a handshake and maintain direct eye contact. Use formal titles such as 'Signore' (Mr.) and 'Signora' (Mrs.) when addressing people, especially in formal settings.
When dining in La Spezia, it is customary to wait until the host indicates where you should sit. Always keep your hands visible on the table and never rest your elbows on the table. It is customary to say 'Buon appetito' before starting the meal.
It is important to respect personal space in La Spezia. Italians generally stand closer when conversing compared to some other cultures, but it is important to be mindful of personal boundaries and not invade someone's personal space.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of La Spezia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in La Spezia
Ensure a smooth experience
In La Spezia, Italy, tipping is not a common practice, especially in restaurants where a service charge is often included in the bill. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is appreciated to round up the bill or leave a small amount as a token of appreciation.
In La Spezia, Italy, cash is still widely used for making small purchases or for payments in local markets. However, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including shops, restaurants, and hotels. It is always good to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors or when visiting more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into La Spezia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit La Spezia, Italy. The weather is mild and pleasant, and the countryside is in full bloom with colorful flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding areas.
Summer is another popular time to visit La Spezia. The weather is warm and perfect for enjoying the beaches and coastal areas. It's the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Autumn brings mild temperatures and less crowded tourist attractions. It's a lovely time to visit for those who prefer a quieter experience and want to enjoy the fall colors in the countryside.
Winter in La Spezia can be mild, but it's also the rainiest season. Many tourist attractions may have reduced hours or be closed, but it's a good time to experience the local culture and enjoy indoor activities.
La Spezia at Night
Hiking in La Spezia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail connecting the five villages of Cinque Terre, offering stunning views of the coastline and Mediterranean Sea.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park offers various hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, with beautiful landscapes and rich biodiversity.
A hike that takes you to Monte Marcello with panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Gulf of La Spezia.
Known as the 'Green Valley', it offers numerous trails through the lush countryside, ideal for nature lovers.
A beautiful coastal path from Portovenere to Cinque Terre that offers breathtaking views of cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into La Spezia through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach La Spezia by plane.
Located approximately 80 km from La Spezia, this is the nearest major international airport, serving various domestic and international flights.
Situated about 130 km from La Spezia, this airport offers connections to many European destinations and is the second closest major airport.
Approximately 170 km from La Spezia, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, primarily within Europe.
Located around 200 km from La Spezia, this major airport serves a wide range of both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in La Spezia, consisting of local Italians and those who have long-term residency.
A smaller demographic group made up of non-Italian citizens living in La Spezia, including immigrants from various countries.
Individuals enrolled in local educational institutions, contributing to a youthful demographic in La Spezia.
Visitors who come to La Spezia for its cultural attractions, natural beauty, and proximity to the Cinque Terre.
The Soul of La Spezia
Discover the essence of La Spezia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in La Spezia, with the local team Spezia Calcio representing the city in various leagues, including Serie A.
Basketball has a strong following in La Spezia, with several local clubs and a dedicated community of players and fans.
Volleyball is popular for both men and women in La Spezia, with clubs competing in regional leagues.
Given La Spezia's coastal location, swimming is a common sport, enjoyed in both competitive and recreational capacities.
Sailing is a popular activity in La Spezia, thanks to its beautiful coastline and maritime heritage, with several sailing clubs available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Spezia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in La Spezia offer vegetarian options, with a focus on fresh vegetables, pasta, and cheeses. Osteria Della Corte and Osteria Delle Spezie are great choices for vegetarian dishes.
While vegan options might be slightly limited, cafes like Il Bistrot and some traditional trattorias offer vegan-friendly dishes such as pasta with marinara sauce, bruschetta, or vegetable risotto.
Gluten-free options are becoming more widely available in La Spezia. Many restaurants and cafes, including Osteria Delle Spezie, offer gluten-free pasta and other dishes upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of La Spezia with these cultural adventures.