Province of La Spezia Travel Guide

Liguria

Province of La Spezia
Province of La Spezia
Cinque Terre - La Spezia which includes a coastal town, general coastal views and boating
Cinque Terre - La Spezia featuring a coastal town, a bay or harbour and mountains
Province of La Spezia

Picturesque harbors and scenic walking trails, historic architecture, beaches and sparkling Mediterranean water make Cinque Terre one of the Italian Riviera’s most alluring destinations.

Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s real treasures a region of five charming towns and villages located in Liguria, on the Italian Riviera. Not only are visitors treated to picturesque fishing harbors and the pristine waters of the Mediterranean but also to the spectacular sight of pastel-colored medieval architecture perched on hilltops and surrounded by terraced vineyards and olive groves.

The entire Cinque Terre region is a national park and protected marine area, and is globally recognized, and therefore preserved, as “common heritage of mankind”. That’s why you’ll discover a truly authentic collection of towns and villages, all thriving on their Roman Age origins and all devoid of major new developments.

Visit Monterosso al Mare, the largest town, to sunbathe on the region’s most accessible beach. Experience the ancient maritime traditions of Vernazza. Climb the zigzagging stairway at Corniglia to explore a labyrinth of alleyways that lead to 14th-century churches and scenic viewpoints. Manarola is a great place to learn about the region’s winemaking and agricultural history while the harbor restaurants at Riomaggiore serve the famous Cinque Terre seafood.

Cinque Terre is ideal for walkers and hikers. The footpaths and trails connecting the towns cling to the coastline and present spectacular views. Make a day trip out of a walk from Monterosso al Mare to Riomaggiore. Via dell’Amore (Love's Way) between Manarola and Riomaggiore is the most famous section a well-paved area that is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

A railway connects the towns of La Spezia and Levanto on either side. Purchase the Cinque Terre Card for unlimited train travel and access to the walking trails. From April to October, a passenger ferry operates between all the towns except for Corniglia. Drivers will need to park in out-of-town lots and then catch the free shuttle bus.

Many people choose to visit the towns on day trips, but you can also find upscale accommodation options in each and linger a while longer in this glorious setting.

Popular cities in Province of La Spezia

Cinque Terre which includes a marina, night scenes and a coastal town
La Spezia
Known for Ferries and boats, Tours and Marinas
On a holiday to La Spezia you’ll discover the second largest city of Liguria, located in the middle of a deep natural bay of the same name.

Reasons to visit

  • Castello San Giorgio
  • Cattedrale di Cristo Re
  • Naval Museum
Vernazza showing a sunset, a coastal town and a bay or harbour
Vernazza
Known for Hiking, Sea and Ports
Come to secluded Vernazza and enjoy its hiking, oceanfront and castle.

Reasons to visit

  • Guvano Beach
  • Vernazza Ferry
Cinque Terre which includes a sunset, a small town or village and general coastal views
Portovenere
Known for Ports, Ferries and boats and Boating
Quaint Portovenere is calling! Discover its sightseeing, boating, monuments and more.

Reasons to visit

  • Church of St. Peter
  • Doria Castle
Riomaggiore which includes rugged coastline and a coastal town
Riomaggiore
Known for Sea, Small town and Hiking
Come to quaint Riomaggiore and enjoy its hiking, cafes and beaches.

Reasons to visit

  • Castle of Riomaggiore
Lerici
Lerici
Known for Beaches, Sea and Ferries and boats
Secluded Lerici is calling! Discover its beaches, marina, history and more.

Reasons to visit

  • Porto di Lerici
Monterosso Beach showing general coastal views and a coastal town
Monterosso al Mare
Known for Beaches, Dining and Hiking
Explore relaxing Monterosso al Mare: its hiking, beaches, dining and more!