2025 Province of La Spezia Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

#Register for May Hotel Sleep Tester 2025 Go to the five fishing village of Cinque Terre If you have limited time you can visit the village of Riomaggiore first to see the time. However, it is still to be based on the actual weather conditions of the day, the advantage is that it only takes a few minutes by train between the five fishing villages, if you feel that the light is not ideal to shoot at any time you can go to the next point, then come back to shoot. Riomaggiore is actually the most well-done sightseeing of the five fishing villages and the reddest village. After exiting the train station, follow the "RIOMAGGIORE CENTRO" indicator (I remember it is on the right hand side), then you will pass through the tunnel next to the railroad tracks. Because this village is actually the initiating village of the Five Fishing Village National Park, so you can see many beautiful murals, shops are relatively dense, and if you want to climb the terraces to see the cathedral. It's beautiful at sunset and the scene is romantic.

#Sign up for May Hotel Test Sleeper 2025 Cinque Terre is made up of five fishing villages. It is located between Genova and La Spezia, northwest of Florence. It takes about 3 hours by train, and about 2.5 hours from Milan. If you want to stay overnight in Cinque Terre, you can consider visiting Pisa and Florence together. Vernazza was originally a defensive village. I like it because it has preserved the fortified historical buildings, such as the church tower and the defense tower. This village is also very suitable for sitting on the shore to have lunch snacks or gelato, and shopping - most of the Cinque Terre are terraced crops, mainly lemons, olives, and grapes, so when you come to Cinque Terre, you will see many wine and lemon-related products. Vernazza also has classic postcard scenes, but you need to walk down the mountain road a little, or walk to the seaside fortress wall and take pictures of the colorful houses behind. Those who love hiking can climb up the mountain in Vernazza and look at the sea after climbing a distance. It is really comfortable.

#Sign up for May Hotel Test Sleeper 2025 Cinque Terre is a group of five neighbouring villages, namely Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. Each village has its own characteristics, but the most popular one is Manarola. You will definitely see its classic postcard scenes when searching for Cinque Terre! Before being developed by tourists, Cinque Terre was known as Italy's paradise because you had to climb over mountains and cross rivers to reach these small villages. Manarola is the most famous of the Cinque Terre villages, because the photos of Cinque Terre that everyone sees on the Internet should all be of this scene, but in fact, there are colorful houses everywhere in Italy, and they are so popular because they are on the coast. Everyone goes to the five villages in a different order. If the focus is on taking photos, just be aware that Manarola is backlit in the morning and you can arrange to go to the last stop close to dusk so that you can take pictures of both daytime and dusk scenes. Shopping may not be as exciting as in other villages, and food is also more expensive. But taking photos alone can occupy all the time

#Sign up for May Hotel Test Sleeper 2025 You might be wondering why you can't just take a train to Cinque Terre from other cities like Milan, Venice and Rome, but instead take a train from La Spezia to Cinque Terre? Since there is no direct train, you will definitely need to transfer. If you want to visit Cinque Terre without rushing, you need to spend a whole day taking a train from other cities and then transferring, which will take more than 2 to 3 hours. This will shorten your time in Cinque Terre and make the day trip very tiring. Florence and Pisa are okay, taking just over an hour and the fares are relatively cheap. Except for Monterosso al Mare, where the road is relatively flat, the other four villages require climbing hills and stairs. Therefore, it is not suitable to live in Cinque Terre with luggage, and the housing prices are also very expensive. If you really want to live there, you can go to Monterosso al Mare, because the town is relatively large and its feature is a large beach. So this is probably the favorite village for European and American travelers, full of people sunbathing. The most famous one should be the "Giant Watching the Sea" stone statue of Poseidon, and this beach view is a classic check-in spot. Although there are not as many colorful stacked houses on the shore as in other villages, it is really fun to stroll around here, and the sea water is cool and comfortable, so you can stay here for a day or two.

#Sign up for May Hotel Test Sleeper 2025 The easiest and most convenient way to get to Cinq Terre is to take a train from La Spezia Centrale, the central station of the city. Buy a ticket at the tourist center before departure. The ticket seller will also give you a train timetable. Then just pay attention to the train times according to the order you planned. Except for Corniglia, one of the five Cinque Terre villages in Italy, which is on a 300-foot cliff, all other villages are on the seaside. What makes it very different from the other four villages is that it is not by the sea, but on the mountain. There are two ways to get to the city of Corniglia. The first is to exit the train station and there is a bus stop next to it. You can take the bus for free with the Cinque Terre Card.

Tucked away on the Ligurian coast, just south of the famous Cinque Terre, lies Portovenere – a charming seaside village that feels like it’s been lifted straight from a painting. With its colorful buildings, dramatic cliffs, and timeless atmosphere, it’s the kind of place that quietly steals your heart. 🗺 How to Get to Portovenere Getting to Portovenere is part of the adventure. Unlike the Cinque Terre villages, there’s no train station here, which helps keep the crowds away. You can reach it by: 🚗 Car: From La Spezia, it’s about a 20-minute scenic drive. Be prepared for narrow roads and limited parking, especially in summer. 🛥 Boat: Ferries run regularly from La Spezia and the Cinque Terre (especially during high season), offering spectacular coastal views. 🚍 Bus: From La Spezia, you can take Line 11/P. It’s an affordable option and runs frequently. 📍 Top Attractions in Portovenere 1. Church of St. Peter (Chiesa di San Pietro) Perched dramatically on a rocky promontory, this 13th-century church offers sweeping views of the sea. It’s one of the most iconic spots in town and the perfect place to soak in the coastal magic. 2. Doria Castle (Castello Doria) Overlooking the town, this medieval fortress offers stunning panoramas and a step back in time. It’s a bit of a climb, but well worth it for the views alone. 3. Byron’s Grotto (Grotta di Byron) Named after the poet Lord Byron, who used to swim across the bay from here, this grotto is a beautiful and peaceful spot. A must-see for literature lovers and romantics alike. 4. The Old Town Wander through the narrow alleys lined with pastel-hued houses, charming boutiques, and cozy cafés. The vibe is laid-back and authentic – perfect for slow travel. 5. Palmaria Island Just across the bay, this lush, unspoiled island is great for hiking, swimming, or simply escaping the bustle. You can take a quick boat ride to get there. 🌅 A Sunset to Remember As the day came to a close, I was lucky enough to witness a divine sunset over the Gulf of Poets. The sky turned from soft peach to deep orange, reflecting beautifully on the water and casting golden light on the cliffs and rooftops. It was one of those rare travel moments that feels both surreal and grounding – the kind you try to capture in photos but know you’ll carry with you long after. Final Thoughts💭 Portovenere may be less known than its Cinque Terre neighbors, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It offers all the charm with fewer crowds – plus, a sunset that will stay with you forever. If you're planning a trip to Liguria, make sure to carve out a day (or two) for this underrated treasure. #mediterranean

Perched along the dramatic Ligurian coastline, Cinque Terre is a string of five postcard-perfect villages carved into cliffs above the sea. With colorful houses, terraced vineyards, and hiking trails offering stunning views, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Italy’s most magical escapes. 🏘️ The Five Villages Each village has its own charm: • Monterosso al Mare – The largest village and the only one with a proper sandy beach. Great for swimming and sunbathing. • Manarola – Famous for its sunsets, colorful houses, and romantic vibes. • Riomaggiore – A lively village with steep streets, perfect for aperitivo lovers and photography. • Vernazza – Perhaps the most picturesque, with its harbor, pastel buildings, and scenic viewpoints. • Corniglia – Perched high on a cliff, it’s the only village not directly on the water. Quieter, ideal for wine lovers. 🚶Things to Do • Hike the Sentiero Azzurro: This “Blue Trail” connects all five villages with panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea. • Swim & Sunbathe: Enjoy the beaches of Monterosso or dive into the sea from rocks in Manarola and Vernazza. • Take a Boat Ride: See the villages from the water — an unforgettable perspective. • Wine Tasting: Try Sciacchetrà, the local sweet wine, in Corniglia or at any small wine bar. 🍝 Where to Eat & Drink • Ristorante Miky (Monterosso) – Upscale dining with seafood and Ligurian specialties. Try the trofie al pesto. • Nessun Dorma (Manarola) – Famous for bruschette, cocktails, and stunning sea views. Go early — no reservations! • Belforte (Vernazza) – A romantic cliffside spot perfect for fresh pasta and wine. • Bar e Vini a Pié de Mà (Riomaggiore) – Casual wine bar on the cliffs with sunset views. 🚆 How to Get There & Around By Train: The easiest way to get to Cinque Terre. • Trains run regularly from La Spezia, Genoa, or even Pisa and Florence. • Cinque Terre Express: This local train connects all five villages in minutes. • By Boat: Seasonal ferries offer beautiful rides between villages (except Corniglia). • By Foot: Hiking between villages is a highlight — bring good shoes and water! 📅 When to Visit • Best Time: April to June or September to early October. Fewer crowds and pleasant weather. • Peak Season: July–August — beautiful but busy and hot. • Off-Season: Some businesses close from November to March, but it's peaceful. 💡 Travel Tips • Buy a Cinque Terre Card for access to hiking trails and unlimited train travel between villages. • Stay overnight to enjoy quieter evenings after day-trippers leave. • Wear comfortable shoes — there are lots of stairs and steep paths. Final Thought 💭: Cinque Terre is not just a place — it’s an experience of slow travel, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're sipping wine on a terrace or hiking cliffside paths, every moment here feels like a dream.

Vernazza was pure magic. From the moment I stepped into the harbor, I was surrounded by colorful houses, boats gently rocking in the water, and that iconic view from every corner. No hike needed—just strolling through the narrow streets, grabbing a snack, and watching the sunset was enough to fall in love. It’s a town that feels timeless, like it was made for postcards and peaceful moments. ✨ Quick Tips for Visitors: • Head to the small harbor wall for incredible photos—especially at golden hour. • Try a lemon granita or fresh seafood from a street-side vendor. • Walk up a little toward the trail entrance for a free, elevated view (no hike required!). • Stay till evening—Vernazza glows after the daytrippers leave. Whether you’re passing through or staying a while, Vernazza is small but unforgettable. 🍋🌊 #Vernazza #CinqueTerre #VernazzaViews #ItalyCoast #ItalianFishingVillage #CinqueTerreVibes #LigurianDream #HarborMagic #WanderlustItaly #HiddenItaly #PostcardPerfect #TravelItaly #LaDolceVita #CoastalCharm #SeasideEscape

Visit Cinque Terre for stunning views of the Levantine coast! Start at Monterosso and hike your way through the 5 towns to Riomaggiore for only 7.50 EUR. Along the way, visit local shops selling locally grown lemon-based and olive-based products, from gelato to shaved ice drinks. The path is challenging but rewarding, and there is always the railway service to take you from town to town if you get tired ##summervacay #travel #couplestrip #naturalwonders #thingstodo #seascapes

#Sign up for tripbest July Hotel Tester If you are young and strong and have time, and you love outdoor activities like Europeans, it is very popular to walk through the five villages. Each trail lasts from 30 minutes to 2 hours. There are different routes according to the difficulty of climbing: the sightseeing blue line (Turistico), the hiking green line (Escursionistico) and the expert orange line (Esperto). You can check the climbing route map on the official website. If there is a mountain road closed, the route will be black, representing Chiuso. Among them, the Cinque Terre seaside trail: Via dell’Amore will charge an extra fee, otherwise the counter will give you a map of the open hiking routes on the day when you buy tickets on site. However, it is actually very tiring to take the train to visit the five villages. Only those with good physical strength are recommended to walk the whole way, but the beautiful scenery along the way is really enjoyable.

Catch local bus number 11, from La Spezia (Garibaldi) to Portoverne approximately 30 mins, €1.50 per person. Stroll around the gift shops, enjoy foccacia, pesto and canolli! Walk up to the castle and capture exquisite holiday pictures that you'll never forget! Swim in the in-land coves with the locals. Dine along the seafront as the sun sets. Capture the sunset and beautiful scenery. Tips - steps to and from the Castle are steep and slippy, hazardous but views are worth it. Total cost for 3 people for food, transport & drink €130. Total smugness for 3 people 100%.

Located in charming Porto Venere, Al Gabbiano is a beloved Italian restaurant and pizzeria perched right by the harbor, offering sweeping views of Palmaria Island and the Ligurian Sea . Why You’ll Love It: • Spectacular Setting: Dine al fresco with sea breezes and postcard‑perfect scenery . • Fresh Italian Flavors: From wood-fired pizzas and pinsa to Ligurian seafood—start with mussels and farinata, then savor trofie al pesto or fritto misto (). • Relaxed Local Vibe: Friendly service, laid-back atmosphere, and a spot for people‑watching boats come and go (). Trip Moments Summary: 📍 Location: Calata Doria 36, Porto Venere, Italian Riviera 🕒 Best Time to Visit: Lunch or dinner with sunset over the harbor 🍽 Must-Try: Seafood starter, house wine, pizza or pesto pasta #AlGabbiano #PortoVenere #ItalianRiviera #SeaViewDining #TripMoment

La Finestra sul Mare is a beachfront accommodation located in Portovenere, 200 metres from Arenella Beach and 15 km from San Giorgio Castle.To visit the historic centre of Portovenere, half a day is enough. If, on the other hand, you also want to tour the islands of the archipelago by boat and especially to go trekking on the island of Palmaria or, as we did, to the nearby Monesteroli staircase, you have to calculate a full day.

Palmaria is an Italian island situated in the Ligurian Sea, at the westernmost end of the Gulf of La Spezia. With an area of 1.6 square kilometres (0.6 sq mi), it is the largest island of an archipelago of three closely spaced islands jutting from the mainland at Portovenere. The outer islands, Tino and the tiny Tinetto, lie further south.There are many species of reptile on the island, such as the smallest of the European geckos, the European leaf-toed gecko (Phyllodactylus europaeus). While also present on the neighboring islands of Tino and Tinetto, this species is rare in Liguria.

#europeonbudget The coastal trails connecting the five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre offer stunning sea views, colorful homes, and a taste of authentic Italian life. Some trails require a pass, but several routes remain free or are reopened seasonally without charge. You can hike at your own pace and stop in each village to enjoy local food or swim in the sea. A budget-friendly way to explore one of Italy’s most scenic destinations.

#summervacay Perched on the rugged Ligurian coast, these five car-free fishing villages are a UNESCO dream of pastel houses, vineyard terraces, and turquoise waters. Here’s how to explore them like a savvy traveler: --- ### **🌅 *Morning: Riomaggiore’s Golden Start* (7–10AM)** **• **Sunrise at the Harbor** Arrive early to watch fishermen unload their catch at **Marina di Riomaggiore**. The best light hits the **colorful boat sheds** around 7:30AM. **• **Breakfast with a View** Grab a *focaccia al formaggio* (cheesy flatbread) from **Panificio Rosi** and eat it on the **Castello di Riomaggiore** cliffs. **• **Via dell’Amore Walk** Stroll the **easiest coastal path** (currently partially open) for: - **Lovers’ padlocks** clinging to the cliffs - **Tunnel murals** painted by local artists --- ### **🚤 *Midday: Manarola & Corniglia* (11AM–2PM)** **• **Manarola’s Hidden Cove** Swim at **Marina di Manarola**—a tiny pebble beach with **ladder access** to deep water. **• **Lunch with a Twist** At **Trattoria dal Billy**, try: - *Trofie al pesto* (the local pasta shape) - *Acciughe ripiene* (stuffed anchovies) **• **Corniglia’s Quiet Charm** Climb the **382-step Lardarina staircase** (or take the shuttle) to: - **Vineyard terraces** with sea views - **Gelato at Alberto’s** (try the basil flavor) --- ### **🌿 *Afternoon: Vernazza & Monterosso* (3–7PM)** **• **Vernazza’s Secret Spots** - **Doria Castle** for panoramic views - **Hidden rock jump** near the harbor (ask locals) - **Buranello wine** at Enoteca Sotto l’Arco **• **Monterosso’s Beach Life** End the day at **Fegina Beach**, where you can: - **Rent a striped umbrella** - **Try fried calamari** from a beach shack - **Watch sunset from the giant Neptune statue** --- ### **🌙 *Evening: Dinner & Starlight* (8PM+)** **• **Seafood Feast** Book **Ristorante Miky** in Monterosso for: - *Spaghetti allo scoglio* (loaded with shellfish) - *Limoncino* (local lemon liqueur) **• **Bioluminescent Magic** If visiting May–September, take a **late-night boat tour** to see: - **Glowing plankton** in the waves - **Villages lit up like fairy lights** --- ### **💡 *Cinque Terre Hacks* ** ✔ **Buy the Cinque Terre Card** (covers trains + trails) ✔ **Hike Early/Late** to avoid crowds + heat ✔ **Boats > Trains** for scenic travel between villages **🚆 Getting There:** - Train from La Spezia (5–20min per village) - Avoid driving—**no cars allowed** in villages! **🛏️ Sleep Like a Local:** - **Affittacamere Gianni** (Riomaggiore sea views) - **La Mala** (Vernazza boutique hideaway) - **Monterosso’s beachfront pensions** *"Where vineyards tumble into the sea, and every cobblestone leads to a new adventure."*

Spend a day on one ticket and visit 5 fishing villages in one go😍 🏠Le Cinque Terre includes Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, among which Manarola is the most famous. 🚄How to get there: Depart from any city to La Spezia station and then take the Cinque Terre train You can reach any of the Cinque Terre villages in around 15 minutes. Village Introduction 🚩 Riomaggiore: The first village of Cinque Terre, it is the starting point of the national park and the famous trail Via dell’ Amore. It takes about 30 minutes to hike directly to the mountain leading to the second village, Manarola. Manarola: The most famous village, where you can walk to a high point and take pictures of the beautiful colorful houses and the sea. Corniglia: a village full of stairs, requires walking/bus ride, and is a great place for a coffee break. Vernazza: The starting point of the famous trail Sentiero Monterosso. The view of the whole town from the trail is super beautiful and it is also a classic angle for postcards. Monterosso al Mare: The largest village, with a large beach. Its style is very different from other villages, more like a resort town by the sea. This is a great place to play from morning to afternoon and take crazy photos. You can jump into the water anytime when you are hot😍 #AprilGoodDestinations2025

The little town of Sarzana is a short train ride from La Spezia Centrale station, and rocks a laid-back but distinguished vibe: A castle with a warren of explorable underground passages and chambers; a city gate made of elegant Carrara marble, and elegant little cafes displaying equally elegant little sweet treats. Skip the crowds and visit Sarzana instead, I say… #travel #italy #undiscoveredgem

Cinque Terre is a gem of Italy! It consists of 5 fishing villages on the coast of Liguria, in the north of Italy. The area is a national park. You can hike between the villages with around 120km of foothpaths that allow you to explore the nature of the place. While hiking you will have a wonderful view of the landscape. Cinque Terre are also famous for vineyards. There are lot of local wine producers. You can enjoy a visit around the vineyards while doing wine tasting. The best periods to visit this amazing place are April and October because it is less crowded and the Weather is still nice. Have you ever been there? 🇮🇹 #aprilblooms #localguides #cinqueterre #italy #italytrip

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 When you come to Italy, how can you miss this dreamy place - Cinque Terre. These five towns, nestled between the sea and the mountains, sit like a charming postcard along Liguria's evocative coastline. From north to south, the five villages are Monterosso al Mare The village is built along the coast and on the mountain, with good views and convenient transportation. It has a very long beach and the color of the sea is fascinating Suitable for lounging on the beach. Hotels, restaurants, shops, etc. are all available. Vernazza Small fishing port between two cliffs The terraced mountains⛰️ are its background, and the clear sea water🌊 is its foreground Climb up the stairs on the left to get a bird's-eye view of the whole village. Appreciate Vernazza from two directions with different feelings Corniglia The only fishing village not near the sea, you need to climb a mountain to reach it Therefore, there are relatively few tourists You can also take the bus from the train station for free. Suitable for hiking, where you can see traces of residents' lives The village is surrounded by colorful houses and vineyards Manarola A well-known postcard village, there will be more tourists The houses are built along the hillside, like living on a cliff. Walk along the winding mountain road to the middle or top of the mountain Can capture the beauty of the village at the best angle🌈 It is recommended to come to the cliff sea view restaurant early, which is a good place to watch the sunset Riomaggiore The only village in the Cinque Terre with a pier The pier leads to Lover's Beach along the path The end of the pier is one of the best viewing spots Remember to try the grilled fish and pasta here Very Mediterranean style, and you can also enjoy the sea view

#outdooradventure The Sentiero Azzurro is the quintessential outdoor experience in Cinque Terre. This scenic coastal trail connects the five colorful villages, offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and terraced vineyards. I hiked from Vernazza to Corniglia, marveling at the vibrant landscapes and charming cliffside towns. The trail is well-marked and accessible, though some sections are steep and require sturdy footwear. Along the way, I stopped for fresh seafood and gelato. The combination of adventure, culture, and natural beauty makes the Blue Trail an unforgettable experience for hikers and photographers alike.

#newyearnewtrip Ristorante il Moretto is a restaurant located in the historic center of the village, near the church of San Giovanni Battista. It has indoor seating and outdoor terrace. The restaurant serves meat, vegan options available. Italian restaurant offering vegan choices such as minestrone soup, spaghetti and salad. There is wide selection of Italian and seafood dishes from which to choose and I have tried their lemon ravioli, taste not bad. Address: Piazza Cristoforo Colombo, 3, 19016 Monterosso al Mare SP, Italy Opening Hours: 12pm - 10pm (closed on Tuesday)

#newyearnewtrip The Vernazza Harbor is one of the most iconic and picturesque spots in Vernazza, offering a blend of natural beauty, vibrant activity, and historic charm. The turquoise waters of the Mediterranean are perfect for dipping your feet, swimming, or simply admiring from the shore. Remember to bring swim wear to soak inside the sea to enjoy the view. There’s a small sandy beach right by the harbor, perfect for relaxing or taking a swim.

#NewYorkFlightEvent A trip to Italy that was truly full of romance! This time, I visited various cities such as Florence, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Rome, etc., but the places I liked the most were Cinque Terre and Florence! The biggest reason I liked it was that the city was really quiet overall!

#NewYorkFlightEvent The sea view from Italy was so incredibly beautiful, and this is also a place I really like, and there is an atmosphere that can only be felt here! And it is also the place I liked the most in Italy. I really recommend Cinque Terre.

I've finally arrived at the other side of the Anywhere Door: Italy's Cinque Terre! ►The most exquisite town among the five fishing villages ‌▪ Vernazza is nestled among the terraced vineyards and lemon groves built into the mountainside, and it is the most delicate and lively town among the five fishing villages of the Liguria region in Italy! ‌▪ The terrain here is quite unique, situated on a cape stretching into the sea, with castles and churches nestled against the azure coast. The equally colorful little houses are scattered on the cliffs, embracing the clear bay ►In Search of the Prototypes from Hayao Miyazaki's Animations ▪ In the town center, the tiny square and the quaint church and bell tower are nearby, and in the shallow sea area, you can directly see the marine life. Isn't that little black ball the walking soot sprite from Miyazaki's 'Spirited Away'? ▪ Climbing to the top of the hill, you can see the whole view of Vernazza, which is also the scenery on postcards. Of course, you can also sunbathe on the beaches of Vernazza, where all your fairy tale fantasies can be fulfilled. ► The World's Most Beautiful Hiking Trail ▪ The mountain path behind the summit leads all the way to Monterosso, which is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world! ▪ The sea here is the bluest I have ever seen (after comparing it with other places like the Mediterranean, the Pacific, and the Atlantic)! Not too deep, not too shallow, just right! The scenery along the way is truly breathtaking, and the fatigue from hiking is instantly relieved ▪ There are also lemons for sale along the way, hey boss, give me a dozen! ► Recommended visit: 3 days