Cruise Holidays To La Spezia

Overview

Surrounded by the spectacular coastline of Liguria and located at the inner part of the Golfo dei Poeti, the expansive natural harbour of La Spezia was transformed by Napoleon into the largest naval base in Europe. Rising above La Spezia’s harbour is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Portovenere, an incredibly picturesque town, and the inspiration for famous poets such as Byron and Shelley.

Cruise ships dock close to the historical squares of Sant Agostino and del Bastione. Prione is a pedestrianised street full of shops and cafes, while the nearby Corso Cavour features Liberty-style buildings from the late 19th century. Historical sites include the 13th century Church of our Lady of the Assumption and the Civic Museum in the Castle of San Giorgio.

One of the prettiest gateways to the Italian Riviera, La Spezia is the starting point for an exploration of colourful towns of Cinque Terre by boat or train. There is also the opportunity to visit Pisa, Florence, and Lucca, as well as the millionaire’s playground of Portofino, where celebrities sip champagne around this yacht-filled, picture-postcard harbour.