Sight

Gulf of La Spezia

Check tickets & tours

Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.

The Gulf of La Spezia, also known as the Gulf of Poets, is a deep natural harbor on the Ligurian coast. Enclosed by rolling hills and dotted with colorful historic villages like Portovenere and Lerici, this gulf has long inspired writers and artists. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the waterfront promenade in La Spezia, take boat tours to explore the coastline, or hike the surrounding hills for breathtaking vistas. The gulf's calm waters make it ideal for sailing and swimming. Distinctive for its blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, the area offers a more relaxed alternative to the nearby Cinque Terre, with fewer crowds and equally dramatic scenery.

Don't miss

  • Stroll the waterfront promenade in La Spezia for panoramic gulf views
  • Take a boat tour to Portovenere and the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto
  • Hike the hills above Lerici for sweeping vistas of the coastline
  • Visit the historic castles of Lerici and Portovenere
  • Swim or kayak in the calm, clear waters of the gulf

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Gulf of La Spezia

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

More attractions in La Spezia

Planning your trip to La Spezia? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a La Spezia itinerary.