A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

La Spezia: Discover the Jewel of the Italian Riviera

La Spezia is a charming city located in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy. Known as the gateway to the famous Cinque Terre, La Spezia is a popular tourist destination that combines natural beauty with rich history and delicious cuisine.

What to See in La Spezia

The city of La Spezia boasts numerous tourist attractions that you shouldn't miss during your visit. One of the main highlights is the Castle of San Giorgio, an ancient fortress offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the sea.

Another notable site is the Naval Museum, where you can learn about the region's maritime history and admire an impressive collection of ships and naval artifacts. Additionally, the Amedeo Lia Museum houses a valuable art collection spanning from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.

For architecture enthusiasts, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a must-visit. This Gothic-style church dates back to the 13th century and features beautiful frescoes and an impressive façade of black and white marble.

Exploring the Surroundings

La Spezia is also the perfect starting point for exploring the famous villages of Cinque Terre. These five picturesque coastal villages, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are known for their colorful houses, narrow streets, and stunning cliffs.

Another nearby attraction is Portovenere, a charming coastal town with an impressive Romanesque church and panoramic coastal views. From here, you can take a ferry to visit Palmaria Island, a natural paradise with beautiful beaches and scenic hiking trails.

If you're a nature lover, you can't miss the Cinque Terre National Park, a breathtaking natural reserve offering a wide variety of trails to explore. Here, you can enjoy spectacular sea views, stunning landscapes, and a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Gastronomy in La Spezia

La Spezia is also known for its delicious cuisine. You can't leave without trying the region's typical dishes, such as Genoese focaccia, basil pesto, and fresh seafood. Additionally, the Liguria region is famous for its olive oil, so we highly recommend tasting it during a sampling experience.

As for wines, Liguria produces excellent white and red wines that pair perfectly with the local dishes. Don't hesitate to visit a local winery to enjoy a wine tasting and learn more about the region's winemaking traditions.

La Spezia is a tourist destination that blends history, culture, nature, and gastronomy. From its charming city attractions to the breathtaking landscapes of Cinque Terre, La Spezia will captivate you with its beauty and authentic Italian charm.

Gastronomic Products of La Spezia

Pesto alla Genovese

La Spezia is famous for being the birthplace of pesto alla Genovese, a sauce made from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, pecorino cheese, and olive oil. This delicious sauce is used to season pasta dishes, such as the famous trofie al pesto, and can also be found in local shops to take home.
Focaccia

Focaccia is a soft and fluffy flatbread that originated in the Liguria region, where La Spezia is located. This bread is known for its soft texture and salty flavor. It can be enjoyed on its own or with toppings such as olives, cherry tomatoes, or rosemary. It's a perfect snack to enjoy while strolling through the city.
Pesce alla Vernazzana

La Spezia is near Vernazza, one of the five villages of Cinque Terre. In this area, a traditional dish called pesce alla Vernazzana is prepared, consisting of fresh fish cooked with tomatoes, olives, capers, and white wine. It's a delight for lovers of Mediterranean flavors.
Farinata

Farinata is a type of crepe made from chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and salt. It is a typical dish of the Liguria region and can be found in many places in La Spezia. Served hot, it is a delicious and affordable option to enjoy as an appetizer or as a side dish.

Outstanding Gastronomic Spots in La Spezia

La Spezia, located in the Liguria region of Italy, is known for its delicious cuisine. Here are some of the best places to enjoy local food:

Ristorante La Pia

If you're looking for an authentic gastronomic experience, you can't miss Ristorante La Pia. This family-run restaurant specializes in traditional regional dishes such as pesto pasta, focaccia, and fresh seafood from the Mediterranean Sea. Additionally, its cozy atmosphere and excellent service make every visit memorable.

Osteria Della Corte

Located in the heart of La Spezia, Osteria Della Corte is famous for its homemade cuisine and welcoming ambiance. Here, you can enjoy typical regional dishes such as torta di verdura (vegetable pie) and farinata (a type of chickpea flour crepe). Moreover, its wine list offers an excellent selection of local wines.

Trattoria Dal Billy

Situated in the picturesque village of Portovenere, just a few kilometers from La Spezia, Trattoria Dal Billy is known for its excellent seafood cuisine. Here, you can savor fresh and delicious dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and pesce al cartoccio (oven-baked fish in foil). Additionally, its seaside location offers stunning views.

Sports Activities in La Spezia

Hiking and Trekking

La Spezia is the gateway to Cinque Terre, five picturesque fishing villages along the coast. The trails connecting these villages offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and are perfect for hiking.

Sail

La Spezia is known for its water sports, especially sailing. You can rent a boat and explore the stunning Italian coastline, or even take sailing lessons if you're a beginner.

Cycling

La Spezia and its surroundings are ideal for cycling. You can rent a bicycle and explore the city or venture into the countryside, where you'll find hills, vineyards, and olive groves.

Diving

The Mediterranean Sea around La Spezia is a popular spot for diving. There are several diving schools offering courses for all levels, from beginners to experienced divers.

Nearby Places to La Spezia (Italy)

If you're in La Spezia and want to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Portovenere

Portovenere, a charming coastal village in Italy, will captivate you with its stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Additionally, you can indulge in its delicious cuisine, where fresh seafood and traditional dishes offer an unforgettable culinary experience.

Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore, a gem on the Ligurian coast, will enchant you with its colorful houses nestled into the mountains and breathtaking sea views. Additionally, you can savor its delicious Italian cuisine, where fresh seafood dishes and homemade pasta take center stage.

Manarola

Manarola, a charming fishing village on the Italian coast, will captivate you with its colorful houses and stunning sea views. Additionally, you can delight in its exquisite cuisine, where fresh seafood dishes and local wines take center stage.

JourneyGourmet