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La Spezia, located on the shores of northwestern Italy, is the gateway to the iconic Cinque Terre towns and a true gem of the Italian Riviera.
The five Cinque Terre villages (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore) are known for their colorful buildings, winding streets, and breathtaking cliffside views of the Ligurian Sea. La Spezia, with its prime transportation connections to these villages, is a convenient base for visitors as the Cinque Terre towns offer limited accommodation options.
La Spezia itself is a charming town with much to explore, including the historic Castello San Giorgio, dating back to the 14th century. The city is set in the beautiful Gulf of Poets, which has inspired famous authors and artists like P. Shelley and Lord Byron. A boat ride along the coast is a must to fully experience the area’s stunning scenery.
Don’t miss the local specialties, including traditional minestrone soup with focaccia and pesto, along with Ligurian wines that offer rich flavors and high quality.
La Spezia is a perfect off-the-beaten-path addition to any Italy getaway. Ready to explore?
There's so much to explore in La Spezia. Take a look at the list below and get inspired to plan your journey.