La Spezia is a city that combines maritime charm with a lively cultural scene, making it an excellent place for walking tours. Its compact size means you can stroll through bustling markets, historic neighborhoods, and scenic waterfronts in just a few hours. What makes La Spezia especially appealing is how these tours blend local history, stunning views, and authentic flavor — sometimes with a twist, like live music or personalized itineraries. For instance, the guided walking tour with Italian-inspired music stands out as a unique experience that combines sightseeing with live performances, turning a simple walk into a lively concert. You can hear local musicians serenade you while exploring the city’s colorful streets and iconic landmarks.
Among the various experiences, we’re particularly fond of the La Spezia: Guided Walking Tour with Italian-Inspired Music because of its musical entertainment and intimate storytelling. It’s ideal if you want to explore at a relaxed pace while enjoying the background of classic Italian tunes. But whether you prefer a quick overview, a private deep dive, or a scenic excursion to Portovenere, there’s a tour for every style. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the top walking tours in La Spezia, each offering its own flavor of discovery.
1. La Spezia: Guided Walking Tour with Italian-Inspired Music
At number 1 on our list, this tour combines sightseeing with a curated soundtrack performed by a musician-guide. Over three hours, you’ll explore La Spezia’s most beautiful spots, starting at Banchina Thaon di Revel and winding through the city’s historic streets and scenic viewpoints. What sets this tour apart is the live performance of songs like the Wedding March, folk, pop, and classical pieces, which elevate the experience beyond a standard walking tour.
Clemens, the musician-guide, incorporates storytelling with live music, including a performance at the San Giorgio hilltop castle and a concert at the cathedral. Highlights include visiting Porto Mirabello, walking through the historic center, and learning about local culinary delights like focaccia and homemade ice cream. Reviewers praise Clemens’ engaging personality and musical talent, describing this as “the best tour I ever went on” with “unforgettable moments.” It’s perfect for travelers who want an immersive cultural experience with a musical flair and a small-group setting.
Bottom Line: If you love music, history, and a personal touch, this tour offers a lively, memorable introduction to La Spezia for a reasonable price.
2. La Spezia-MusikWalk – 3 h City-Walk with Italian Inspired Music
At number 2, this tour is very similar in spirit but slightly more concise, offering a three-hour exploration of La Spezia with live music from Clemens, a talented professional musician. The small group format ensures an intimate experience, with stops at Porto Mirabello, the Garibaldi gardens, and the Wagner monument, where music and storytelling intertwine seamlessly.
What makes this tour stand out is Clemens’ ability to blend local legends and facts with live guitar playing and singing, making history come alive in a fun, relaxed way. The tour’s reviews highlight how Clemens’ humor and musical talent make it a memorable way to get to know La Spezia. Plus, the focus on local culture and the chance to enjoy the sea breeze at key spots make this a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, musical introduction with lots of local color, this tour offers excellent value and a highly engaging guide.
3. Genoa Historic Highlights Private Tour: A Walk Through Time
Number 3 takes you further afield to Genoa but is worth considering if you’re interested in combining La Spezia’s charm with a taste of Liguria’s larger port city. This seven-hour private tour explores UNESCO-listed palaces, the Doge’s Palace, and Christopher Columbus’ childhood home, giving a comprehensive look at Genoa’s past. It’s a deep dive into architecture, art, and maritime history, led by a knowledgeable local guide.
While the focus is more on Genoa’s historical sites, the personalized approach ensures you’ll see the highlights at your own pace. The tour includes visits to San Lorenzo Cathedral, the Palace of San Giorgio, and the port area, with ample time for photos and questions. Reviews mention how Kelly’s expertise and storytelling made the city’s history engaging and accessible.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history buffs and those with a full day to spare, this private tour provides an in-depth experience of Genoa’s cultural treasures, with the flexibility to tailor your focus.
4. Walking towards Portovenere and the secrets of the ancient olives roman mill
Number 4 offers a scenic, eco-friendly excursion from La Spezia to Portovenere. This three-hour guided trail walk takes you along the stunning coastline, avoiding crowds and discovering a Roman villa and ancient olive mill ruins. The tour is scheduled only on specific dates, making it a special opportunity for those visiting during March, May, October, or November.
The highlight is walking through the Roman ruins, including an original olive oil press, and enjoying sweeping views of the Ligurian coast. The walk’s moderate difficulty requires hiking shoes, and the visit concludes in Portovenere, allowing you free time to explore the charming fishing village at your leisure. Reviewers emphasize the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to learn about ancient Roman agriculture and olive oil production.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a scenic, historical excursion combining nature, history, and a visit to a picturesque village.
5. Best of La Spezia: Private Walking Tour with a Local
Number 5 is a flexible, private option that adapts to your interests. Led by a local resident, this tour can last from one to six hours, making it ideal for those who want a customizable experience. You can explore neighborhoods, uncover hidden corners, and get insider tips on local eateries and shops.
This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a laid-back pace and want to focus on areas that interest them most. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you see the city through a genuine lens, whether you’re into architecture, food, or history. The review highlights how this tour offers a more personal connection and tailored insights, making it a favorite for those who prefer a bespoke experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a personalized exploration and prefer to choose your pace and focus, this private tour offers great flexibility and local flavor.
6. La Spezia Walking Tour: History, Panoramic Views, & Museum
Number 6 provides a shorter, two-hour walk with a focus on La Spezia’s panoramic views and cultural highlights. The tour includes a ride up to San Giorgio Castle via elevator, offering breathtaking vistas of the city, the mountains, and the sea. Afterwards, enjoy a walk along the port, stopping for a drink, and exploring local parks and markets.
What makes this tour attractive is the combination of easy accessibility—thanks to the elevator—and the chance to see Roman artifacts in a small museum. Reviewers mention how the relaxed pace and scenic highlights make this a good choice for travelers with limited time or mobility concerns.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a quick, scenic overview with minimal physical effort, it packs in views, history, and local atmosphere.
How to Choose Your Perfect La Spezia Walking Tour
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interest level, fitness, and time availability. For music lovers, the Guided Walking Tour with Italian-Inspired Music offers a lively experience, while history enthusiasts might prefer the Genoa private tour or the local private walk. If you love scenery and gentle walks, the Portovenere and Roman mill excursion provides stunning views and cultural insights. Those with limited time might opt for the shorter panoramic tour, especially if mobility is a concern.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular options like the musical tours and private experiences. Check schedules for specific dates if you’re interested in the Portovenere walk, as these are limited. Consider your physical fitness level and whether you prefer a guided, structured experience or a more flexible, personalized tour.
La Spezia offers a rich variety of walking tours that cater to different interests, whether it’s music, history, scenic views, or personal discovery. Two or three days of wandering will reveal its authentic charm, from lively markets to serene coastal walks. For most travelers, the key is to pick a tour that matches your curiosity and energy level. If you love cultural experiences combined with local flavor, the musical walks are a highlight. For those who want a deeper dive into history or a private outing, the options are just as rewarding.
Remember, booking early ensures you secure a spot on your preferred tour, especially during peak seasons. No matter which you choose, walking through La Spezia will leave you with lasting memories—whether through sights, stories, or the soundtrack of Italian life.
