How to get to La Spezia

La Spezia is a picturesque port city in the Liguria region, often referred to as the "gateway" to the famous Cinque Terre National Park. When planning how to get to La Spezia, tourists can choose a convenient route by train, bus, or car, enjoying views of the Italian coast. Although there is no airport of its own, a developed transport network makes it easy to reach here from major cities in Italy, making the city accessible for any traveller.

There are no direct flights to the city, as La Spezia itself lacks a civilian airport. It is most convenient for travellers to fly to the nearest major hubs located in neighbouring cities, which are excellently connected to the coast by ground transport.

The most popular options for arrival are the airport in Pisa (Galileo Galilei), located approximately 63 km away, or the international airport in Genoa (Cristoforo Colombo), at a distance of 79 km. Choosing one of these airports is the best solution for those wishing to reach Liguria as quickly as possible.

The railway is one of the most scenic and comfortable ways to reach the coast. The city's main transport hub, La Spezia Centrale station, receives numerous regional and high-speed trains, ensuring stable connections with key points across the country.

Regular services connect the resort with Pisa (distance about 63 km) and Genoa (79 km), allowing tourists to move quickly between the cities of Liguria and Tuscany. A train journey is often accompanied by magnificent views of the sea and rocky shores, turning the transfer into a small excursion.

Bus services offer an affordable alternative to trains for those planning a trip to La Spezia. The route from Pisa, spanning about 74 km, usually takes approximately 1.8 hours, allowing you to enjoy the landscapes of Tuscany on the way to the sea.

A journey from Genoa will take a little more time — about 3.2 hours to cover 115 km. This is an excellent option for those who are not in a hurry and wish to see more of the Italian countryside from the window of a comfortable bus.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to stop in the most beautiful corners of the coast. The drive from Pisa to La Spezia (about 78 km) will take just 1 hour, making this the fastest way to reach the destination.

The route from Genoa, spanning 107 km, will require about 1.4 hours on the road along scenic motorways. Travellers by car should take into account the local terrain and check for parking availability at their destination in advance.

To make your stay in Liguria as comfortable and carefree as possible, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. Here is a list of useful recommendations for guests of La Spezia:

1. Clothing and Footwear. The city and its surroundings are perfect for long walks, so be sure to bring comfortable flat shoes. In summer, light natural fabrics are preferred, while in spring and autumn, a windbreaker will be useful for protection against the sea breeze.
2. Transport. The historic centre is compact and best explored on foot. For trips to Cinque Terre, use trains or boats, as the roads there are narrow and winding.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops, but it is better to carry some cash for paying for small souvenirs or coffee in small cafés.
4. Health and Safety. The city is considered safe for tourists, however, one should keep an eye on belongings in crowded places and at the station. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross and operate according to a standard schedule.
5. Communication. The main language is Italian. In tourist zones, staff often speak English, but knowing a couple of phrases in Italian (for example, "Grazie" — thank you) is always welcomed by locals.
6. Local Etiquette. When entering a shop or café, it is customary to greet people ("Buongiorno" or "Buonasera"). Note that in many restaurants, a service charge (coperto) is automatically included in the bill.
7. What to Avoid. Do not attempt to drive into Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL) in the city centre without a special permit to avoid high fines.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on the beauty of the Italian Riviera and the hospitality of the local people.