Cruise to La Spezia
La Spezia is sometimes thought of as nothing but a large, industrialized naval port en route to the Cinque Terre and Portovenere, but it does possess some charm, and it gives you a look at a less tourist-focused part of the Riviera.
Its palm-lined promenade, fertile citrus parks, renovated Liberty-style palazzos, and colorful balcony-lined streets make parts of La Spezia surprisingly beautiful.
Monday through Saturday mornings, you can stroll through the fresh fish, produce, and local-cheese stalls at the outdoor market on Piazza Cavour, and on Friday take part in the busy flea market on Via Garibaldi. There's also Porto Mirabello, a newly built tourist port with a pool club, shops, and several restaurants that overlook the fleet of super-yachts.
Why cruise La Spezia
Located only a few miles away from the border with Tuscany, La Spezia is one of Liguria's most important cities. Its central and strategic position within the celebrated stretch of coast known as the 'Gulf of Poets' - so-called because of the praise given to the area by history's most recognised poets - makes the city a very popular one for all the right reasons.
La Spezia offers crystal-clear blue sea, unblemished nature, and enchanting local villages, alongside museums, churches, and monuments. The city also acts as the gateway to Portovenere and Cinque Terre Natural Park (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites). The historic city of Lerici is nearby, too.
From the old town and its intricate stairways, to the waterfront and public gardens, La Spezia will set the soul aflame and leave you with a lasting taste of Mediterranean culture.
