Already an important coastal centre, La Spezia owed its development to the construction of the Naval Arsenal (1860-1865), which was the idea of Cavour and constructed according to a plan by Domenico Chiodo. The Public Gardens, which were created in the early nineteenth century on the crest of the Napoleonic dream (and, it was said at the time, in competition with those in Tokyo), are the true feather in the city's cap. Originally known as the "Boschetto", these enchanted gardens reflect the multifarious charms of nature throughout the seasons.
The bandstand inside the gardens is a veritable jewel of Art Nouveau style. Facing Palazzo Doria on the Via Chiodo is the lush garden park with its rare decorative plants. Standing among the flower-beds are statues of La Spezia's illustrious citizens. The gardens lead onto the Promenade, which offers a spectacular view across the Gulf that is crowned by the sight of the Apuan Alps and the hills sweeping gracefully down to the sea. The glimpse of tugs and fishing boats rocking on the waves gives you an idea of the various activities that are carried out in the Gulf. The La Spezia is widely appreciated for its extremely mild climate and its ideal position in the Bay of Poets. Today, you can make a special request to visit the Naval Arsenal, which has been very successfully opened to the public.
Besides the exhibits of industrial archaeology, you can see sectors that are in the vanguard of the shipping industry. The hillsides that surround the city are a marvellous place to go for a stroll. Well worth a visit are the ancient villages of Biassa and Campiglia, true oases of tranquillity and natural charm. You can also visit the ancient parish church at Marinasco, which underwent restoration in the eighteenth century. The most famous local foods are: "mes- ciua" (a soup with mixed ingredient), vegetables cake and salted cod fritters. The most famous wines are: Biassa white wine, Campiglia white wine, and Marinasco white wine. There is no shortage of accommodation in La Spezia.

La Spezia accommodation in: Hotel, Farm House, Farm Holiday, Bed&Breakfast, Camping, Holiday Home, Rooms for rent, Residence, Tourist Village and Camp site.

Hotels Cinque Terre and Gulf of the Poets

---

Bed and Breakfast - Room rentals Affittacamere Casa Danè Farm Holidays Agriturismo Golfo dei Poeti Residences - Flats - Holiday Houses Agriturismo Golfo dei Poeti

---

Other Hotels   A 4 Passi dal Mare   B&B La Sergilla   Borghi della Quiete   Locanda del Golfo e delle Cinque Terre   Affittacamere Helios   La Corte di Maggiano   Le Ville Relais   Locanda del Prione   Hotel Ristorante Nella   Quiet Night Affittacamere