About
La Spezia is a naval port city on the Ligurian coast of northwestern Italy. Its busy harbour and working waterfront give it a different character from the picture-postcard villages further along the shore, and many visitors come to see it as a practical base rather than an end in itself.
Why visit
The city is best known as the gateway to the Cinque Terre, the cluster of coastal villages that draws walkers and boat trips from across the region. Staying in La Spezia lets you reach that stretch of coast with relative ease, while enjoying an Italian port town at a more everyday pace.
What to expect
- A naval port with a lively, lived-in waterfront
- Easy access to the Cinque Terre villages and their trails and trains
- A base for exploring the wider Ligurian coast
Because the city's appeal lies largely in its position, plan your days around the coast. Check current transport and visiting arrangements before you travel, as schedules for trains, boats and trails can change with the season.
If you want a mix of sea air, working port life and quick trips to some of Liguria's best-known scenery, La Spezia is a sensible place to stop.
