Laigueglia(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For stunning sea views in La Spezia, stay at Hotel Giardino sul Mare, located just steps from the harbor with panoramic windows overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Another top choice is Hotel Belmonte, offering elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace perfect for watching sunsets over the coastal cliffs. Both hotels provide access to Cinque Terre trails and are within walking distance of the historic center, making them ideal for travelers seeking comfort and scenery. Facilities include breakfast with local specialties like fresh seafood and regional olive oil. The blend of Mediterranean charm and modern amenities ensures a memorable stay.

The city center near La Spezia Train Station is the best area for first-time visitors due to its central location and easy access to transportation. It's just a 5-minute walk to Piazza Cavour and surrounded by restaurants, shops, and cultural spots. Hotels like Hotel San Martino offer reliable service and proximity to key attractions. This district also hosts weekly markets and evening events, giving you a genuine taste of Ligurian life. From here, reaching Cinque Terre, Genoa, or Florence is simple via train or ferry, making it a strategic base for exploring the region.

Immerse yourself in authentic Ligurian culture by attending the daily fishing talks at Old Port (Porto Vecchio), where locals share centuries-old maritime traditions. Visit the weekly market on Saturday at Piazza della Madonna, featuring handmade olive oil, dried seaweed, and traditional pasta. Don’t miss the 18th-century frescoes inside Chiesa di San Antonio, which reflect the region’s religious art heritage. These experiences offer deep insight into the daily rhythms and values of this coastal community.

Near La Spezia, must-visit attractions include Vernazza, one of the five villages of Cinque Terre, known for its colorful houses and cliffside hiking paths. Manarola offers the most romantic views along the coast. For panoramic vistas, hike up to Castello di San Giuliano, which overlooks the entire Ligurian Sea. Nature lovers should visit the Orto Botanico di La Spezia, a botanical garden housing over 200 Mediterranean species, combining ecological beauty with historical significance.

Try La Bitta Restaurant by the old harbor, famous for its fresh lobster, octopus, and sea urchin. Their signature dish, Spaghetti ai Ricci (sea urchin spaghetti), uses locally harvested sea urchins for rich, briny flavor. Another hidden gem is Trattoria da Piero, serving artisanal smoked mackerel and salt-cured sea bass, paired with house-made white wine. Dining here means enjoying ocean breezes and golden-hour views—perfect for a memorable culinary experience.

Yes, Hotel Albergo del Mare is a top-rated family-friendly hotel in La Spezia, featuring a children’s playroom, supervised pool area, and free shuttle service to Cinque Terre. Rooms come equipped with baby beds and non-slip flooring. For a more immersive outdoor experience, consider Ammiraglio Resort, located on a private beach with kids’ activities like pirate games and sandcastle contests. Both options ensure safe, fun, and educational stays for families.

Take a regional train (Trenitalia) from La Spezia Train Station to Vernazza—just 15 minutes and €2.5 per ticket. For a scenic alternative, board the Mareggio ferry from the old port, sailing along the coastline with breathtaking views of terraced cliffs and pastel villages. The journey takes about 40 minutes. Purchase a Cinque Terre Card for unlimited train and ferry rides, plus discounts at museums and attractions—ideal for efficient exploration.

Each July, La Spezia hosts the Festa dei Luminari in Mare, where hundreds of paper lanterns are released into the night sky at Old Port, symbolizing blessings for sailors. In October, enjoy the Cinque Terre Jazz Festival in Vernazza Square, featuring international jazz artists under the stars. During the Assunta Festival, locals parade through Santa Maria Church wearing 19th-century costumes, preserving traditional customs. These events highlight the town’s vibrant cultural identity.

Stroll down Corso Italia for independent boutiques like La Bottega del Marinaro, selling hand-carved ship models and Mediterranean spice kits. At the Mercato Coperto, sample local delicacies such as dried fish and torta di olive (olive cake). Pick up a bottle of Cantine Luigino’s white wine, produced in nearby hills, known for its crisp, balanced profile—perfect for pairing with seafood. These shops offer authentic souvenirs and tastes of Liguria.

Yes, La Spezia boasts excellent public transport. The train station connects directly to major cities like Genoa, Florence, and Pisa. Free city buses cover all key areas, including the waterfront and historic center. Renting an electric bike is popular—available at seaside rental stations for €10/day. With the Cinque Terre Card, you gain unlimited access to trains, ferries, and select sites, making travel seamless and cost-effective across the region.