From La Spezia: Private Tour of Gulf of Poets & Portovenere
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Leaving from the Traghetti Terminal of La Spezia, where you will meet your private guide for the day, you will board a ferry boat to reach the picturesque village of Portovenere. Once there, you will start a proper boat tour to see the islands of the Gulf of Poets, such as Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto. These islands are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will have some time to explore the islands with your guide (you will decide together how much time to dedicate to each island, where to eat and so on).
You will discover why poets and writers from all generations and nationalities - but especially the poets from the English Romanticism - were fascinated by these places. Byron, Shelley, Virginia Woolf, DH Lawrence, all have dedicated poems and thoughts in this stretch of the Ligurian coast, so rugged and sometimes inaccessible.
At the end of the tour, your guide will take you back to La Spezia Traghetti Terminal, where the tour ends.
Available options
From La Spezia: Private Tour of Gulf of Poets & Portovenere
What's included
Private tour led by expert guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
You will board a ferry boat to reach the picturesque village of Portovenere.
2
See the islands of the Poet's Gulf, such as Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto. These islands are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will have some time to explore the islands with your guide (you will decide together how much time to dedicate to each island, where to eat and so on).
You will discover why poets and writers from all generations and nationalities - but especially the poets from the English Romanticism - were fascinated by these places. Byron, Shelley, Virginia Woolf, DH Lawrence, all have dedicated poems and thoughts in this stretch of the Ligurian coast, so rugged and sometimes inaccessible.
At the end of the tour, your guide will take you back to La Spezia Traghetti Terminal, where the tour ends.
3
See the islands of the Poet's Gulf, such as Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto. These islands are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will have some time to explore the islands with your guide (you will decide together how much time to dedicate to each island, where to eat and so on).
4
See the islands of the Poet's Gulf, such as Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto. These islands are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will have some time to explore the islands with your guide (you will decide together how much time to dedicate to each island, where to eat and so on).
What's not included
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note that the price of this tour doesn't include the ferry boat tickets, but you can easily buy them on the spot with your guide's help (total price per adult it about €30)
We suggest you take with you sunscreen and a bottle of water
As for the lunch, your guide will be happy to take you to a place they know for a quick lunch (or to recommend you a good place if you prefer to go on your own)
Meeting point
Meet your guide at the ticket office of the ferry boat (“traghetti”) terminal.
Important notes
Please bring your mobile or printed voucher and arrive at the meeting point at least 10
minutes before the scheduled starting time.
About La Spezia
La Spezia is a vibrant port city in northern Italy, serving as the gateway to the stunning Cinque Terre. Known for its rich maritime history, beautiful waterfront, and as a starting point for exploring the picturesque coastal villages of the Cinque Terre, La Spezia offers a blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
Top Attractions
Castello di San Giorgio
A medieval castle offering panoramic views of the city and the Gulf of La Spezia. The castle houses the Museum of Ligure Navigation.
Historical
1-2 hours
€5
Museo Civico Amedeo Lia
A museum showcasing a rich collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
Museum
1-2 hours
€7
Cinque Terre
A UNESCO World Heritage site consisting of five picturesque coastal villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Nature
Full day
Free to explore, but train and ferry tickets apply
Must-Try Local Dishes
Trofie al Pesto
A traditional Ligurian pasta dish made with trofie pasta and pesto sauce, often served with potatoes and green beans.
Main Course
Contains dairy and nuts.
Focaccia
A type of flatbread topped with olive oil, salt, and sometimes herbs or other ingredients.
Snack
Vegan options available.
Farinata
A savory chickpea pancake, similar to a thin, crispy crepe.
Snack
Vegan and gluten-free.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Cinque Terre
Kayaking in the Gulf of La Spezia
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Visiting museums
Exploring historical sites
Boat tours
Swimming
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, crowded beaches, and vibrant festivals. Ideal for beach activities and exploring the Cinque Terre.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
La Spezia is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
- • Be cautious when walking alone at night.
Getting there
By air
- Christoforo Colombo Airport • 100 km from La Spezia
By train
La Spezia Centrale
By bus
La Spezia Centrale Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in La Spezia. They are affordable and connect major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Piazza Verdi
Porto Mirabello
Day trips
Porto Venere
10 km • Half day to full day
A charming coastal town with a medieval church, colorful houses, and stunning views of the sea.
Lerici
15 km • Full day
A picturesque seaside town with a beautiful beach, historic castle, and charming streets.
Festivals
Spezia Festival • July
Cinque Terre Festival • October
Pro tips
- Purchase a Cinque Terre Card for unlimited train travel between the villages.
- Visit the Cinque Terre in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the scenery.
- Try local specialties like pesto, focaccia, and fresh seafood.
- Explore the city's historic sites, such as the Castello di San Giorgio and the Museo Civico Amedeo Lia.
- Take a boat tour to see the coastline from a different perspective.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
