La Spezia at a glance
Typical Food and Wine Products of La Spezia
- Pesto alla Genovese: A traditional sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
- Farinata: A thin, crispy pancake made from chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and salt.
- Muscoli Ripieni: Stuffed mussels, a local specialty often filled with a mixture of bread, cheese, and herbs.
- Testaroli: A type of pasta cooked on a cast iron pan and served with pesto or olive oil and cheese.
- Amor: A local dessert made of light sponge cake filled with cream.
- Vermentino: A white wine produced in the Liguria region, known for its fresh and fruity flavor.
Cultural Sites to Visit in La Spezia
- Castello San Giorgio: A medieval castle offering panoramic views of the city and the Gulf of La Spezia.
- Technical Naval Museum: Showcases the maritime history and naval heritage of La Spezia.
- Church of Santa Maria Assunta: A historic church with beautiful frescoes and artwork.
- Amedeo Lia Museum: Houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from various periods.
- Public Gardens: A lovely park in the city center, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Possible Day Trips
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Cinque Terre
- Travel time: About 20-30 minutes by train.
- What to see: The five picturesque villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, with stunning coastal views and hiking trails.
- How to get there: Train from La Spezia to any of the Cinque Terre villages.
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Pisa
- Travel time: About 1 hour by train.
- What to see: The Leaning Tower, Piazza dei Miracoli, and the Cathedral of Pisa.
- How to get there: Train from La Spezia to Pisa Centrale.
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Lucca
- Travel time: About 1.5 hours by train.
- What to see: The medieval city walls, Guinigi Tower, and the Cathedral of San Martino.
- How to get there: Train from La Spezia to Lucca.
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Portovenere
- Travel time: About 30 minutes by boat.
- What to see: The picturesque harbor, Church of San Pietro, and the Byron's Grotto.
- How to get there: Ferry from La Spezia to Portovenere.
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Lerici
- Travel time: About 20 minutes by boat or car.
- What to see: The beautiful beaches, Lerici Castle, and the waterfront promenade.
- How to get there: Ferry or car from La Spezia to Lerici.
Useful Tips
- Advance Booking: For excursions to popular destinations such as Cinque Terre and Pisa, it is advisable to book in advance.
- Time Available: Always check the ship's departure time to plan your activities accordingly.
- Local Transport: Use taxis, buses, or shuttle services to get around the city and its surroundings comfortably.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.