1st: La Spezia Historic Center

This is the vibrant, walkable core of the city and its cultural center. It is an affordable base for exploring the region and offers an authentic Italian urban charm, with fewer crowds than the Cinque Terre villages. The historic center features charming shops, cafes, and historic buildings with a Genoese influence, particularly in the narrow streets known as carrugi. Highlights of this neighborhood: Castello San Giorgio, Amadeo Lia Museum, the Naval Technical Museum, Piazza Garibaldi, and the historic Via del Prione shopping street.

2nd: The Waterfront and Porto Mirabello

This area is a major focal point for the city’s maritime life. The Constantino Morin Promenade (Lungomare) is a must-see, lined with hundreds of palm trees and bustling with walkers, runners, and cyclists. The modern Porto Mirabello is a visually striking marina connected to the historic center by the Thaon di Revel Bridge.
Highlights of this neighborhood: Constantino Morin Promenade, La Spezia Ferry Dock, La Spezia Cruise Terminal, Porto Mirabello, and the Thaon di Revel Bridge.

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3rd: Portovenere (The Gulf of Poets)

While its own town, Portovenere is functionally a gateway and key destination closely associated with La Spezia and the Cinque Terre. It is renowned for its colorful houses, crystal-clear water, and dramatic coastline. It serves as a major departure point for boat trips to the surrounding islands and the Cinque Terre.
Highlights of this neighborhood: St Peters Church, Doria Castle, Byron’s Cave, and its surrounding islands of Palamaria, Tino, and Tinetto.

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4th: Lerici and San Terenzo

Located on the eastern side of the Gulf of La Spezia, Lerici is a picturesque seaside town with a rich history of attracting poets and writers. It is known for its grand villas and seafront vistas. Its neighboring village, San Terenzo, offers additional coastal charm and historic sites.
Highlights of this neighborhood: Fiascherino beach, and beautiful seafront vistas.