Tour of Apericena at Sunset and Dinner on Boat - Frequently Asked Questions

4 Best Dining Experiences In La Spezia (With Prices)

La Spezia isn’t just a gateway to the stunning Ligurian coast; it’s also a fantastic place to indulge in memorable dining experiences that capture local flavors and scenic beauty. Whether you’re craving a seafood cruise with panoramic views or a cozy home-cooked meal, this charming port city offers options that suit different tastes and interests. We’re especially fond of the Morning or Evening Boat Tour with Aperitif, Lunch or Dinner because it combines gourmet seafood, snorkelling, and breathtaking views of Portovenere and the Palmaria Islands. It’s a perfect way to enjoy Liguria’s freshest fish while relaxing on the water.

If you prefer something more intimate and hands-on, the Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at a Local’s Home offers an authentic taste of La Spezia’s culinary traditions, cooked and served by passionate locals. For a more casual, family-friendly vibe, the Home Restaurant Experience with Pool Access provides hearty home-cooked dishes in a welcoming setting. Below, we explore each of these top-rated options to help you choose the perfect culinary adventure.

1. Morning or evening tour with aperitif, lunch or dinner and bathroom breaks

Morning or evening tour with aperitif, lunch or dinner and bathroom breaks

At number 1 on our list, this boat tour offers a spectacular combination of seafood, scenery, and relaxation. Starting from La Spezia, the tour takes you along the Gulf of Poets, with stops at Portovenere and the Palmaria Islands to explore their dramatic coasts and legends. This experience is as much about gourmet food as it is about the stunning views — you’ll enjoy freshly cooked fish onboard, with a variety of dishes that change based on what was caught that day. A bottle of wine is included for every two guests, along with drinks for children.

What makes this tour stand out is its balance between culinary delights and active exploration — snorkelling in crystalline coves, swimming in exclusive spots, and relaxing with delicious local seafood. The guides, Maurizio and Daniela, are praised for their friendly vibe and rich knowledge of the coast’s history. The stunning scenery of Portovenere and the islands combined with the fresh seafood makes for a memorable day. The reviews highlight the quality of the food and the well-organized nature of the trip, with one guest noting, “The seafood was caught the day before, and it was delicious.”

Bottom line: If you want a full day of seafood, scenery, and sea adventures, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience with excellent value for the price.

2. Tour of Apericena at Sunset and Dinner on Boat

Tour of Apericena at Sunset and Dinner on Boat

For a shorter and equally scenic experience, the Apericena at Sunset combines a relaxing boat cruise with a delicious aperitif and dinner. Starting from Porto Mirabello, you’ll tour the Gulf of Poets, passing by the Torre Scuola, Portovenere, and the Byron Cave, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops. The highlight is the visit to Cala dell’Ammiraglio, a natural pool behind Palmaria Island, where you can swim and enjoy a cold drink, making it perfect for warm days.

This tour is about combining sightseeing with local flavors, as you’ll sip on drinks and nibble on appetizers while the sun sets over the Ligurian coast. The itinerary includes visits to Tino and Tinetto islands, with their distinctive lighthouses and Madonnina statue, adding a layer of charm and history. The reviews mention the fantastic scenery and the informative commentary from the crew, making it a great choice for travelers short on time but eager to see the coast from the water.

Bottom line: Ideal for sunset lovers and those seeking a shorter, scenic, and tasty cruise with a focus on local history and beauty.

3. Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at a Local’s Home in La Spezia

Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at Local's Home in La Spezia

If you’re after an authentic culinary experience, the Cesarine home dinner and cooking demo offers a behind-the-scenes look at Liguria’s beloved dishes in a local home setting. Your hosts, passionate foodies, will demonstrate how to prepare traditional recipes, sharing tips and stories along the way. After cooking, you’ll sit down to enjoy a four-course meal, paired with regional wines, in a warm, family-style atmosphere.

What makes this experience special is its personal touch — you’re not just eating, but participating in the cultural fabric of La Spezia. The reviews praise the welcoming hosts and the delicious, homemade food. Guests often comment that it feels like dining with friends, making it perfect for travelers wanting a more intimate, educational, and delicious evening. The price includes the meal and drinks, providing good value for those wanting a true taste of local life.

Bottom line: Best suited for food lovers who want to learn, cook, and share a meal in a homey, authentic setting.

4. La Spezia: Home Restaurant Experience with Pool Access

La Spezia: Home Restaurant Experience with Pool Access

Rounding out our list is the Home Restaurant Experience in Vezzano, just outside La Spezia. For around $68, you get to enjoy a home-cooked meal with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in a friendly, relaxed environment. The experience includes access to a pool and garden, making it perfect for sunny days and travelers seeking a casual, family-friendly vibe.

This tour emphasizes genuine hospitality — you’ll enjoy dishes prepared in the host’s kitchen, with options for appetizers, first courses, and desserts. While drinks are not included, you can purchase local wines and cocktails à la carte. Guests often comment on the warmth of the hosts and the delicious homemade food, making it a good pick for families or anyone wanting a laid-back local experience.

Bottom line: If you’re on a budget and want a relaxed, homemade meal with pool access, this tour hits the spot.

How to Choose the Perfect Dining Experience in La Spezia

When selecting your ideal food adventure, consider your priorities: Do you want a full-day seafood cruise with snorkelling and panoramic scenery (Tour 1)? Or perhaps a short sunset cruise with drinks and stunning coastline (Tour 2)? If you’re hungry for authentic home cooking and want to learn some secrets of Ligurian cuisine (Tour 3), that experience is hard to beat. For a relaxed, family-friendly meal with a pool to cool off, the Home Restaurant is a practical choice (Tour 4).

Budget, time available, and interest in learning cooking techniques versus enjoying scenery will help narrow your options. Book early, especially for the boat tours in high season, to secure your spot and make the most of La Spezia’s fantastic dining scene.

Final Thoughts

La Spezia offers a surprising range of dining adventures that go beyond just eating out. From luxury boat tours with seafood feasts to intimate home dinners, there’s something for every palate and travel style. For a day at sea, the boat tour with snorkeling (Tour 1) stands out for its combination of scenery, fresh fish, and activities. If you prefer learning local recipes and sharing a family dinner, the Cesarine experience (Tour 3) offers an authentic taste of Liguria.

Whatever your choice, La Spezia’s culinary options promise memorable moments that will enrich your trip. Remember to plan and book early, especially for popular boat tours or exclusive dinners, so you won’t miss out on these delicious experiences.