- Must visit
Museo Tecnico Navale della Marina Militare
Technical museum on naval history with figureheads, weapons and ship models, offering insight into La Spezia’s maritime role.
Take a ferry from Barcelona to La Spezia and enjoy the approximately 375 nautical miles (696 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
Distance 375 nautical miles (696 km) |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Discover the best of La Spezia — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect La Spezia trip today.
Technical museum on naval history with figureheads, weapons and ship models, offering insight into La Spezia’s maritime role.
Museum with seals, manuscripts and local archaeology inside a former convent, useful for understanding Lunigiana history.
Museum dedicated to 20th-century art in a central former convent, known for paintings, sculpture and temporary exhibitions.
Elegant palm-lined seafront promenade for harbour views, evening walks and easy access to ferries and city landmarks.
Main pedestrian shopping street with Liberty-era buildings, useful for exploring the city centre between sights.
Tree-lined public gardens by the waterfront, pleasant for a break and close to monuments, ferries and the historic centre.
Savoury pie of rice, eggs and cheese baked in pastry. A classic Ligurian street food found in bakeries around La Spezia.
Small mussels from the Gulf of La Spezia, often stuffed with breadcrumbs, herbs and cheese. A local speciality tied to the city’s maritime tradition.
Fresh anchovies layered with potatoes, tomatoes and herbs, then baked. A homely coastal dish typical of eastern Liguria.
Traditional seafood trattoria known for mussels, pasta and Ligurian dishes in a relaxed, local setting near the centre.
Elegant restaurant focused on refined Ligurian seafood and seasonal ingredients, with a polished atmosphere suited to dinner.
Well-known local spot for fresh fish, mussels and classic coastal cooking, popular for a lively informal meal.
Moderate for Italy: stays rise in peak season, but dining and local transport are manageable versus pricier Cinque Terre bases.
Service is often included or covered by coperto. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; taxis can be rounded up; café tipping is optional.
Official public transport app
La Spezia Centrale -> Piazza Saint Bon, La Spezia
The most popular day trips by ferry from La Spezia are Portovenere, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Riomaggiore and Manarola. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from La Spezia on Omio.

Portovenere is a colourful Ligurian harbour town known for its tall seafront houses and the church of San Pietro above the rocks. With medieval lanes, a small castle and views across the Gulf of Poets, it feels historic and maritime.

Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the Cinque Terre villages, known for its beach and colourful seafront. It combines a relaxed holiday atmosphere with an old town of narrow lanes and the traditional character of the Ligurian coast.

Vernazza is a colourful Cinque Terre village known for its small harbour, pastel houses and rugged coastal setting. Its narrow lanes, seafront piazza and old fishing character give it a lively but intimate feel.

Riomaggiore is the easternmost village of the Cinque Terre, known for colourful houses above a tiny harbour. Beneath its popularity, it feels distinctly Ligurian, with steep lanes, vineyard terraces and a close relationship with the sea.

Manarola is a small Cinque Terre village known for pastel houses, a rocky harbour and steep vineyard terraces. It has a quiet fishing-town character, with sea views and hillside paths shaping daily life.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Barcelona to La Spezia by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at La Spezia, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
