Ideas in La Spezia

[feenix]

We are trying to figure out what to do when we are in port at La Spezia.  There is a tour we can take to Florence and Pisa, but I have not seen much else regarding other options.  What have you enjoyed from that port?  We are a family of 4 with kids ages 17 and 19.  We like physical activity, scenery, and shopping, more than sightseeing.  Thanks!

[cruisemom42]

Florence and Pisa are a long way from La Spezia, although many ships offer excursions there.

 

Much closer, and seemingly a better fit for your family, would be the "Cinque Terre" ("Five lands") which are very close to La Spezia. These are five unique and pretty villages on the coast, with potential to go between them via boat from town to town or by railroad or by hiking (although some of the trails were damaged several years ago in severe landslides). 

 

On the plus side they are close and allow a more active day to match your interests. On the minus side they tend to get terribly overcrowded in the peak tourist season, to the point that some are calling for limitations on the number of visitors per day.

 

I'd suggest you do some research and see if this appeals....

Edited February 3, 2020 by cruisemom42

[Kylomom]

Check out the Rick Steve's video on You Tube about Cinque Terre.  We went there a couple of years ago and it was amazing. 

[feenix]

Whats the best way to get to Cinque Terre from La Spezia?

[CruiserBruce]

Train...discussed here frequently. Takes you right into each village, quickly and cheaply.