La Spezia, Liguria, Italy
During our stay in Lunigiano, a remarkably mountainous and often rugged region of Tuscany, we were captivated by a landscape that felt more akin to the formidable peaks of the Alps than the typical rolling Tuscan hills. To experience a change of scenery, we decided to head to the coast. Although our initial plan was to visit the famous Cinque Terre, we ended up spending the day exploring the city of La Spezia, strategically located on the border between Tuscany and Liguria. This port city served as an unexpected but pleasant gateway to the Ligurian Sea, offering a unique blend of urban life and maritime charm.
Parking in La Spezia
Finding a suitable parking spot in a bustling port city like La Spezia can be a challenge, especially in the historical center. The city is designed to be explored on foot, and its narrow streets and limited parking spaces can be difficult to navigate. A good strategy is to look for public parking lots near the main attractions or the waterfront, which offer convenient access to the port and the old town. Be prepared for paid parking zones, which are common in city centers and provide the best security for your vehicle.
We wanted to park the car in the historical center, while not being far from the port. We managed to find quite a good parking lot in Piazza Giulio Beverini (1; GPS: 44.1046019, 9.819603).
Strolling the town
Strolling through La Spezia is a truly pleasant experience that allows you to feel the authentic pulse of a lively Italian port city. Unlike some other ports, La Spezia combines its industrial function with a charming urban environment, offering wide, tree-lined boulevards and well-maintained public spaces. The city center is a delight to explore, with a pedestrian-friendly layout that encourages leisurely walks. It’s a city that has a genuine, lived-in feel, providing visitors with an immersive and authentic slice of Ligurian life.
This is another, typical port town visited by us - previously we have been to Livorno. We were worried that the impressions would be as bad as before. It turned out, however, that we were wrong. The atmosphere prevailing in La Spezia was completely different than in Livorno. Here you can feel the typical atmosphere of Italian towns. The streets were clean, and the parks and squares neat. In the very center there were many restaurants and bars with outdoor tables (if you like such a dish, we recommend the local seafood!). Generally, it's worth to get around the center, stroll the streets, look at the beautiful tenement houses, and then go to the nearby port.
Just go through Via Domenico Chiodo street, then through a nice city park (A; GPS: 44.103083, 9.823240) - so-called Giardini Pubblici, or Public Gardens - and you're already at the port itself. There's a very nice promenade available where you can walk. You can also just sit on a bench by the sea and look at ships and water trams.
We also have the opportunity to visit a nearby navy museum with a collection of cannons, weapons and other artillery (B; GPS: 44.103083, 9.823240). If you still feel unsatisfied, you can walk away from the port and visit the interesting castle - Castello di San Giorgio (C; GPS: 44.106434, 9.821580).
Cinque Terre
The world-famous Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a collection of five stunning coastal villages known for their colorful houses and dramatic cliffside locations. While the villages are a must-see for any visitor to the Ligurian coast, their unique geography and protected status make car travel impractical and often restricted. The best way to experience these gems is to leave your vehicle behind and rely on the excellent public transport network that connects them, allowing you to move freely and enjoy the scenic views without the stress of finding parking.
It turns out that the Cinque Terre is not worth visiting by car. Why? Because the few parking lots are small and very crowded (there may even be some local formal restrictions on car traffic). It is much better to drive to the city of La Spezia, leave the car here, and go to the train station, buy a ticket and take a train to the nearby and beautiful Cinque Terre towns. Alternatively, you can take a boat here - such cruises take place from La Spezia every day.
Gastronomy in La Spezia
La Spezia's gastronomy is a delightful fusion of Ligurian and Tuscan culinary traditions, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood. The city's location on the coast means that its kitchens are always supplied with the freshest catch, from anchovies to mussels. The old town and waterfront are dotted with a wide variety of restaurants, from simple trattorias to elegant seafood establishments, each offering a unique taste of the local flavors. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of local Ligurian wine, which perfectly complements the region's cuisine.
What to Try?
- Seafood: The absolute highlight of La Spezia's cuisine is its seafood. Be sure to try the "fritto misto" (mixed fried seafood) or "muscoli ripieni" (stuffed mussels), a local specialty.
- Focaccia: As you are in Liguria, you must try the local focaccia, a soft, oily flatbread that is a staple of the region. It's perfect for a quick snack or as an accompaniment to a meal.
- Pesto: While from nearby Genoa, pesto is the iconic sauce of Liguria. Look for dishes with fresh pesto, often served with trofie or testaroli pasta.
- Farina di Ceci: A thin, savory pancake made from chickpea flour, similar to the French "socca." It's a simple yet delicious local street food.
Where to Eat?
The city center and the streets around Piazza Giulio Beverini and the port are the best places to find restaurants and trattorias. You will find a wide range of options, from places that serve simple, rustic dishes to more refined dining experiences. Many of the restaurants offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal while soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere. Don't be afraid to venture down a side street to find a hidden local gem.
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