The undisputed star of this enchanting location is nature: the main attractions of the area include the Cinque Terre National and Marine Park, famous for its picture postcard landscapes of high cliffs rising from the sea and pretty medieval villages. Equally beautiful and popular are the Monte Marcello Park, covered with dense evergreen and Mediterranean vegetation, and Porto Venere. An authentic mix of history and nature, the Ligurian coast is the perfect demonstration of how an area can be attractive and sustainable for tourism even without miles of crowded beaches. The province of La Spezia really stands out for its diversity. The region's four main areas - Val di Magra, Val di Vara, Gulf and the Cinque Terre - mean visitors can travel quickly between different landscapes, all characterised by centuries of history.
The Magra and Vara valleys are the green lungs of the hinterland but also, and above all, guardians of the rich and diverse artistic heritage of this region, a tangible demonstration of the peaceful co-existence between man and nature. While there are few ancient monuments in the centre of La Spezia, there is no lack of rationalist style buildings of architectural interest - many of them designed by Franco Oliva - including the Government Palace and Villa Marmori.
The city is very popular with tourists, especially for its museums. The MAL - Museo Amedeo Lia houses a painting by Tintoretto (Lamentation over the Dead Christ) and two portraits by Titian and Pontormo. Also not to be missed is the "Ubaldo Formentini” Civic Museum, in the Castello di San Giorgio, a fortress built between the fourteenth and eighteenth centuries on the Poggio hill, which provides a beautiful view of the city from above. Finally, near the Arsenale, is the seat of the Naval Technical Museum of the Italian Navy.
Leaving the city centre, in the province of La Spezia, near the border with Tuscany, there is an area of great natural interest and varied landscapes protected by the Montemarcello-Magra National Park. The area is perfect for hiking enthusiasts thanks to the presence of numerous well-marked walking trails.
For food lovers, La Spezia is a city that won’t disappoint: stopping off in a trattoria to savour the local specialities is a must. Traditional dishes include anchovy tarts and baked potatoes, La Spezia style salt cod and mesciua, a pulse soup usually served with panigacci, unleavened bread typical of the nearby Lunigiana. What are you waiting for? Take a look at our holiday packages to La Spezia today and get ready for your next unforgettable adventure!
