Welcome to your La Spezia cruise port guide. This Italian harbor city is often underestimated, yet it has plenty of surprises in store. Why stop here? Because La Spezia is the perfect gateway to explore the Cinque Terre, with its colorful cliffside villages, and Tuscany, with Pisa and Florence within easy reach.
Whether you choose to stroll through the historic city center or head out to discover the surrounding highlights, this port stop promises a day filled with discoveries, postcard-worthy landscapes, and authentic Italian flavors.
About your La Spezia cruise port guide
Hi, I’m Sarah, also known as Miss Tatane, a cruise travel enthusiast 😛. On MonTataneTour (MTT), I share real-life experiences and tested tips to help you make the most of every port of call.
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My tips for choosing the best excursion from La Spezia
Let’s be honest: La Spezia is not Venice. It is a pleasant Italian port city, with a charming waterfront, the Thaon di Revel bridge, San Giorgio Castle with its panoramic elevator, and a few nice shops along Via del Prione.
But, and this is a big but, most cruise passengers do not come for La Spezia itself. They come mainly for what surrounds it:
- The Cinque Terre: five colorful villages clinging to the cliffs that dominate Instagram feeds
- Pisa: its famous Leaning Tower that everyone wants to see at least once in their lifetime
- Florence: possible as a full-day excursion, about 94 miles away
Cruise lines know this very well. That is why they usually give you 10 to 12 hours in port, enough time to enjoy the surrounding highlights without rushing.
How to leave the La Spezia cruise port
La Spezia cruise stop
Warning: you cannot leave the port on foot. It’s a restricted industrial area, and if you try walking, you’ll quickly run into fences and shipping containers. I’ve seen cruise passengers waste 30 minutes wandering around… completely unnecessary.
The solution? Free port shuttles take you directly to the cruise terminal (Largo Michele Fiorillo). Quick, well-organized, and everyone goes through this route.
Once at the terminal, you have two options:
Stay in La Spezia and explore the city
- About a 15-minute walk to reach the city center
- Stroll along the Lungomare, the seafront, up to Via del Prione
- Or pass through Piazza Giuseppe Verdi and its arcades
It’s perfect for stretching your legs, grabbing a coffee, or doing a bit of shopping. But let’s be honest: the city itself doesn’t have enough attractions to fill a full 10-hour port stop.
Go on an excursion
This is where it gets really interesting. Most cruise passengers stop in La Spezia for one reason: to explore the Cinque Terre, Pisa, or Florence stress-free and make the most of their day.
Cinque Terre excursion
La Spezia cruise stop – complete guide
Ah, the Cinque Terre! Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Monterosso… These colorful cliffside villages immediately make you want to wander the narrow streets and take photos at every corner.
If you prefer to go on your own, it’s quite simple:
- La Spezia train station is a 30-minute walk from the terminal, a pleasant stroll if you enjoy walking.
- Otherwise, a bus will get you there in about 15 minutes.
- Once there, trains easily connect La Spezia to the villages of the Cinque Terre.
For those who want to enjoy the day stress-free, a guided excursion departing near the terminal is very convenient.
An 8-hour tour in the heart of the Gulf of Poets
This option lets you admire the colorful facades from the sea, offering a unique and relaxing viewpoint. Depending on your port day, two itineraries are available:
- Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday: visit the three must-see villages – Riomaggiore, Monterosso, and Vernazza.
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday: variation including Porto Venere, Monterosso, and Vernazza. Porto Venere is especially appreciated for its San Pietro Church, perched on the cliffside.
The real advantage? A english-speaking guide and perfect organization ensure you return to the ship stress-free and on time.
Cinque Terre Boat Tour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 47 reviews → 831 cruise passengers
If you’re in La Spezia, don’t miss this boat trip to Vernazza and Monterosso. Plus, you can complete this Cinque Terre tour by visiting Riomaggiore or Porto Venere. You are going to fall in love!
Price per person → $81.79
Pisa excursion
La Spezia cruise stop – complete guide
The Pisa excursion is one of the most popular trips from La Spezia, and for good reason! Upon arriving at the terminal, a bus takes you directly to a short walk from the Square of Miracles. Here, you’ll be amazed by the visual impact of the white marble of the Duomo and the Baptistery, bathed in Tuscan sunlight.
To make the most of your visit, you have three options:
- On your own (the simplest) – The bus drops you off, you explore Pisa at your own pace, take photos, and catch the bus back at the meeting point. Zero stress, perfect for independent travelers.
- With a guide (the most complete) – Discover the secrets of the monuments and leaning palaces (it’s not just the Tower!).
- The full experience (with Tower ticket) – For those who want to climb the steps. Note: booking is required and children under 8 are not allowed.
Pisa excursion from La Spezia
⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 115 reviews → 2,075 cruise passengers
On this excursion to Pisa for cruise ship passengers, we’ll take you on an unforgettable trip to explore this legendary World Heritage Site. If you prefer to see it on your own, you can choose the option that includes only transportation.
Price per person → $50.97
Florence excursion
La Spezia cruise stop – complete guide
Florence excursion from La Spezia
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 50 reviews → 800 cruise passengers
If your cruise docks in La Spezia and you want to visit the cradle of the Renaissance, a day trip to Florence is a must on your Mediterranean cruise!
Price per person → $58.08
The perfect combo: Florence and Pisa in one day
La Spezia cruise stop
If you’re torn between the grandeur of Florence and the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, this combined excursion is made for you. It’s the perfect way to make the most of your port stop and see as many UNESCO World Heritage sites as possible.
Here’s how your day unfolds:
- Morning in Florence – After a comfortable transfer, enjoy the Tuscan capital and admire the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria.
- Afternoon in Pisa – Then head to the famous Square of Miracles to discover the Leaning Tower, the Baptistery, and the Cathedral.
Why choose this option? It’s a turnkey solution to experience the two Tuscany highlights without worrying about logistics. Transportation is fully handled to ensure a stress-free return to your ship after a day full of incredible sights (expect a 9 to 10-hour excursion).
Florence and Pisa excursion from La Spezia
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 226 reviews → 5,906 cruise passengers
Make the most of your time in La Spezia to explore the highlights of Tuscany. Enjoy a convenient and comfortable bus transfer service from your cruise ship to Florence and Pisa.
Price per person → $64
Excursion price comparison
Here’s a small table comparing the prices of excursions sold on board the ships with the actual prices you can find locally:
| Excursion Type | Cruise Line Price | MTT Price/Civitatis | Your Savings (1 Person) | Your Savings (Family of 4) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cinque Terre | $140–$170 | $82 | $58–$88 | $232–$352 |
| Pisa | $110–$155 | $51 | $59–$104 | $236–$416 |
| Florence | $195–$240 | $58 | $137–$182 | $548–$728 |
| Florence + Pisa | $210–$260 | $64 | $146–$196 | $584–$784 |
As you can see, for exactly the same experience, cruise lines often charge 2 to 3 times more.
This comparison allows you to plan your excursions smarter, stress-free, and optimize your budget, whether you’re traveling solo or with your family.
What to do in town if you’re not going on an excursion
La Spezia cruise stop – complete guide
La Spezia is not just a starting point for the Cinque Terre. If you prefer to stay in town and enjoy a 100% Italian day, here’s how to organize your shore time on foot, without worrying about your ship’s departure schedule.
Lungomare and Thaon di Revel Bridge
As soon as you leave the terminal, start with the Lungomare Morin, a beautiful promenade lined with palm trees and magnolias along the sea.
- Thaon di Revel Bridge: This all-white suspension bridge has become a modern symbol of La Spezia. Perfect for a photo with your cruise ship in the background.
- Tip: Take this walk in the morning to enjoy the soft light over the Gulf of Poets.
San Giorgio Castle
The highest point in town, this medieval castle now houses an archaeological museum, but it’s mainly worth it for the exceptional panoramic view of the port and the bay.
- MTT tip: Skip the tiring stairs and take the free public elevator on Via del Prione.
- Why go? To see your cruise ship dominating the entire bay – it’s the best view of your stop.
Shopping and gastronomy
Via del Prione, the pedestrian street in the historic center, is perfect for strolling, shopping, and discovering local cuisine.
- Smart shopping: Here, prices aren’t inflated for tourists. Perfect for buying Italian leather goods or clothing.
- Covered market (Piazza Cavour): A true delight for the taste buds with Genovese pesto, local cheeses, and more.
- Food break: Try Farinata (chickpea pancake) or Focaccia, quick, inexpensive, and delicious local specialties.
Which museums to visit in La Spezia
Naval Technical Museum
Located at the entrance of the Arsenal, this museum tells the story of the Italian navy and its strategic role in La Spezia.
- Must-see: historic figureheads and submarine relics.
- Ideal for: families and military history enthusiasts.
Amedeo Lia Museum
Housed in a 17th-century former convent, located a 20-minute walk from the port.
- Highlights: masterpieces from the Middle Ages and Renaissance (Titian, Tintoretto…).
- Ideal for: a peaceful cultural break, away from the terminal crowds.
If you’re short on time, here are three small curiosities to discover in the city center:
| Museum | Why visit? |
|---|---|
| Museo del Sigillo | A world-class collection of historical seals. Unique in the world! |
| Palazzina delle Arti | For its temporary exhibitions of photography or modern art. |
| Transport Museum | Perfect if you love vintage locomotives and trolleybuses. |
Where to swim?
If you’re hoping to find a beach right off the ship in La Spezia, here’s a heads-up: it’s not a seaside town. I was quite surprised on my first stop—getting off the ship in August, I looked for a beach… and looked for a long time! Back then, there was almost no info about shore stops, and the port is vast and industrial: there’s no swimming area in the city center.
The good news? The Gulf of Poets hides crystal-clear waters just a few miles away. Here’s where to go for a quick dip:
- Portovenere, the absolute favorite: The most spectacular spot, 40 minutes by bus or boat. No sand here, but you can swim at the foot of the rocks in a postcard-perfect setting.
- San Terenzo and Lerici, for sandy beaches: If you want real sand and comfort, head to the other side of the Gulf. Venere Azzurra Beach, between the two villages, is ideal for laying down your towel, especially for families. About 27 minutes by bus.
- Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre beach: The only Cinque Terre village with a large sandy beach. Take the train from La Spezia Centrale station (15-minute ride) or the bus in 50 minutes. Fegina Beach is just outside the station, perfect for a quick swim between visits.
Activities
La Spezia cruise stop – complete guide
Make the most of your La Spezia cruise stop, the perfect gateway to the Cinque Terre and Tuscany. Whether you choose to stay in town or go on an excursion, La Spezia offers many options suited to the limited time of a shore stop. Walking tours, cultural visits, or iconic sightseeing—you can plan your day exactly as you wish.
Popular activities and excursions for cruisers:
- Cinque Terre – Explore the famous UNESCO-listed colorful villages (Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Monterosso), easily accessible from La Spezia by train or organized tour.
- Pisa – Visit the iconic Leaning Tower, the Square of Miracles, and the cathedral on a perfect half-day excursion.
- Florence – Discover the birthplace of the Renaissance with its landmark sites: the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria.
Prefer booking with Civitatis? Us too!
Discover all the excursions and guided tours available for your La Spezia cruise stop.
FAQ – La Spezia cruise stop – complete guide
No, it is strictly forbidden. La Spezia port is an active industrial and commercial area. For your safety, you must use the free shuttle buses provided by the port, which will drop you directly at the cruise terminal (Largo Michele Fiorillo), where you can start your visit.
If you plan to visit the Cinque Terre on your own, expect a 30-minute walk from the cruise terminal to reach La Spezia Centrale. If you prefer not to walk, local buses or taxis can make the trip in about 10 minutes.
It depends on your priorities. The train is faster and cheaper, but stations can be crowded and delays are possible. The boat offers stunning panoramic views of the colorful villages and avoids the busy train platforms. For a stress-free stop, the boat excursion is the most relaxing option.
We strongly advise against it. Although both destinations are amazing, they are in opposite directions. Trying to do both in a 10-hour stop will make you spend most of your time in transit, with a real risk of missing your ship’s departure.
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MontataneTour wishes you an amazing cruise stop in La Spezia!
