When travelers talk Italy, it’s typically Rome, Venice, Florence and Tuscany. If you’re looking for a new area to explore, how about La Spezia?
La Spezia is located on the northern part of Italy, midway between Genoa and Pisa on the Ligurian Sea, and is one of Italy’s commercial harbors. It’s a great place to tour with so many things to do, including:
Museums: Exploring the culture and history of the place you’re visiting is a great way to enrich your travel experience. One of the museums in La Spezia, Museum Amedeo Lia, focuses on the arts and is home to works from legendary artists like Titian and Tintoretto. Here you can also see Roman sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, Limoges crucifixes, and other unique treasures. If you’re looking for even more museums to visit, try the Formentini Archaeological Museum, which explores La Spezia’s history and is connected to the San Giorgio Castle.
Dining: Of course, no trip to Italy would be complete without having some true authentic Italian food. There are many restaurants, cafes, and other such dineries to explore in your day trip to La Spezia. Vicolo Intherno is one you might want to put on your itinerary. Try some delicious torte di verdure, or vegetable pie, and soak in the ambiance of a true Italian restaurant. Also try La Pia, where they have specialty foods such as farinata (a chickpea flour pancake) and their own take on torte di verdure.
La Spezia’s Public Gardens: For a calming stroll with beautiful views and plant life, make a stop at La Spezia’s Public Gardens. Creation of the Gardens began in the early 1800s after the medieval walls of the city were taken down. Now they are filled with a substantial botanical collection of various plants and foliage, as well as a large Garibaldi equestrian statue. Looking for more views? Walk along the Passeggiata Morin, or The Waterfront, for a glance around the culture of La Spezia.
Shopping: Also known as Piazza Cavour, the Piazza del Mercato is a traditional Italian market. Here, you can find salumi, fish, cheese, fruits, vegetables, flowers, coffee, bread, fresh meat, cutlery, and, of course, people! This place is abuzz with action and life, making you feel like you are truly a part of the Italian culture. Get there as early as possible so you get things when they’re fresh and before they’re gone!
Travel Makers MD