Welcome to La Spezia, a beautiful port city that serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring Northern Tuscany and Liguria! If your cruise itinerary includes a stop at the La Spezia cruise terminal, you’re in for a treat. From here, you can easily visit iconic destinations like Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence, and Genoa.
This guide is designed to help you make the most of your time in La Spezia. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from transportation options and must-see attractions to essential tips for cruise passengers. We’ll give you a head start on creating a memorable experience.
Many cruise passengers debate between booking organized excursions and exploring independently. While organized tours have their advantages, this guide focuses on the DIY approach, empowering you to discover the region at your own pace and on your own terms.
La Spezia Cruise Port Essentials
If you’re planning a cruise that stops in La Spezia, here’s what you need to know to make the most of your time on shore.
Location and Layout
The cruise port in La Spezia is conveniently located close to the city center, making it easy to access local attractions. You’ll find essential facilities such as tourist information and taxi stands right at the port.
Practical Information
The currency used in Italy is the Euro (€), and the primary language is Italian, although English is widely spoken in tourist areas. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience.
Here are a few essential websites to check out as you plan your shore excursions:
- Trenitalia (for train schedules and tickets)
- ATC La Spezia (for local bus information)
- The official tourism website for Liguria (for attractions and events)
Getting Around
You’ll have several transportation options available to you, including buses, taxis, and trains. The train station is a short walk from the port and offers easy access to nearby towns like Cinque Terre and Pisa.
Especially during peak season, it’s a good idea to pre-plan your transportation to avoid long waits and ensure you get to see everything on your list.
Getting from La Spezia Cruise Port to La Spezia Train Station
So you’ve arrived at the La Spezia cruise port, and you need to get to the La Spezia Centrale train station. The good news is that it’s not far – only about 2 kilometers, or 1.2 miles.
You’ve got a few choices for how to make the journey: bus, taxi, or even walking if the weather cooperates.
Taking the Bus
There’s a local bus that makes the trip from the cruise port to the train station. You’ll want to check the bus route to make sure it fits your schedule.
You can buy bus tickets ahead of time for about €1.50. On the way back, you can buy tickets from the machine at the train station.
To plan your journey, try using Google Maps or the La Spezia bus route journey planner.
Taking a Taxi
Taxis are usually available at the cruise port. Keep in mind that the cost can vary.
Walking
If you’re feeling energetic and the weather is nice, you can walk to the train station. Just be aware of the conditions, because it can get pretty hot in the summertime!
DIY Excursion to Cinque Terre from La Spezia
One of the most popular excursions from the La Spezia cruise terminal is a visit to the Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised of five picturesque villages clinging to the Ligurian coastline. To access the park’s trails and other amenities, you’ll need a Cinque Terre Card.
Train Travel to Cinque Terre
The easiest way to get to and between the Cinque Terre villages from La Spezia is by train. Trains run frequently, especially during peak season. To ride the train and hike on the trails, you’ll need the Cinque Terre Card. The card also gives you access to the park’s buses, elevators, and other services.
To save time, you can buy your Cinque Terre Card online before you arrive. That way, you’ll bypass the ticket lines at the La Spezia train station.
Exploring the Villages
The most efficient way to see all five villages is to hop on and off the train. The train ride between villages is short, giving you plenty of time to explore each one. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can hike between the villages on the park’s trails, assuming they’re open and accessible with your Cinque Terre Card.
Tips for Visiting Cinque Terre
A visit to Cinque Terre requires a little planning. Before you go, map out your route and check the train schedules. Also, wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to hike.
Finally, allocate enough time for each village and for travel between them. You’ll want to soak in the atmosphere and capture the beauty of each unique village without feeling rushed.
DIY excursions to Pisa, Florence, and Genoa from La Spezia
While Cinque Terre is the star of the show when you arrive in La Spezia, you can also take a train to a variety of other Italian hotspots.
Pisa
The train ride from La Spezia to Pisa Centrale takes anywhere from 40 to 90 minutes, depending on the type of train you catch. From the Pisa Centrale station, it’s about a 20-minute walk to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Florence
Depending on the train you catch, the trip from La Spezia to Florence can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 1/2 hours. It’s a longer ride, and a DIY trip to Florence can be challenging.
If you decide to go the DIY route, keep in mind that Florence is extremely popular with tourists, especially in July and August. If you’re traveling during peak season, it’s a good idea to pre-book your tickets for popular attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery.
For a more relaxing experience, especially during the busiest months, you might consider booking a guided tour to Florence.
Genoa
A train trip from La Spezia to Genoa can take an hour, or even up to two. Once you arrive, you can visit the city’s Old Port (Porto Antico) or the Aquarium of Genoa, one of Europe’s largest aquariums.
A word about DIY trips
If you’re considering a DIY excursion from La Spezia, be sure to factor in travel time along with the time you’d like to spend sightseeing. Also, keep in mind that the port city of Livorno is closer to Pisa and Florence than La Spezia is, and Genoa is closer to Portofino. If your heart is set on seeing those particular destinations, you might want to consider a cruise that calls at Livorno or Genoa instead.
Closing Thoughts
With its excellent port facilities and prime location, La Spezia is a fantastic gateway to some of Italy’s most stunning destinations. Whether you’re drawn to the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, the historic charm of Pisa, or the artistic treasures of Florence, La Spezia offers a convenient starting point for your adventure.
However, successful DIY excursions from La Spezia require careful planning. Research transportation options, book tickets in advance when possible, and create a realistic itinerary that accounts for travel time and potential delays. Remember, the trains can get crowded, especially during peak season.
When choosing your destinations, consider your interests and the time you have available. Cinque Terre is perfect for hiking and exploring picturesque villages, while Pisa and Florence offer a deeper dive into Italian history and culture. Don’t try to cram too much into one day; focus on a few key highlights and savor the experience.
Ultimately, a cruise stop in La Spezia is an opportunity to discover the beauty and charm of the Liguria and Tuscany regions. With a little planning and an adventurous spirit, you can create unforgettable memories that will last long after your cruise has ended. So, relax, explore, and enjoy the journey!