La Spezia might be best known as the gateway to the stunning Cinque Terre, but it’s also a city that deserves its own food adventure. Unlike larger Italian cities, La Spezia offers a more intimate taste of Ligurian and Tuscan flavors, with small family-run eateries and fresh seafood straight from the harbor. One of our favorites is the Taste Cinque Terre on a Food Tour by Do Eat Better, which combines local history, vibrant street food, and personalized tastings in a small-group setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience authentic La Spezia without the crowds.
If you’re craving a full day of relaxation and spectacular scenery, the Boat tour 5 terre & Portovenere Food – drink – music – swim offers a leisurely cruise along the coast, complete with local food, wine, and swimming stops only accessible by boat. For those on a shorter schedule, the La Spezia Cinque Terre Food Tour provides an approachable introduction to Ligurian cuisine through five tasty stops around the city.
Below, we’ll explore each of these options in detail, helping you decide which best suits your taste, timing, and travel style.
1. La Spezia: Taste Cinque Terre on a Food Tour by Do Eat Better
Priced at $103.50 per person, this 3-hour small-group tour offers a deep dive into La Spezia’s culinary scene. Led by a friendly local guide, you’ll visit 4–5 food stops where the menu is always seasonal, ensuring the freshest ingredients. Expect to taste Ligurian staples like briny fried anchovies, focaccia, pesto with testaroli, and local desserts. The tour is designed for those who want an authentic experience without the hassle of planning, and the small group size guarantees personal attention.
The itinerary starts with farinata, a simple yet delicious chickpea flour cake, in a historic bakery. Then, you’ll sample Liguria’s famous focaccia at the best bakery in town. The highlight is trying pesto alla genovese with testaroli or panigacci in a local restaurant where locals go. The final stop is at the harbor, where you can savor fried seafood, including calamari and anchovies, freshly prepared from local fishermen.
Reviews are glowing, with visitors praising the knowledgeable guides and generous portions. One said, “The focaccia and farinata were amazing,” and another appreciated the opportunity to explore La Spezia’s hidden culinary gems. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, intimate tasting experience with lots of local insights.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for small groups, seafood lovers, and those who enjoy a leisurely, culturally rich food walk.
2. Boat tour 5 terre & Portovenere Food – drink – music – swim
For around $138, this 7 to 8-hour boat tour offers a different kind of culinary adventure—combining sightseeing, swimming, and eating. Captain Gerry’s restored boat takes you along the Ligurian coast, with stops at Portovenere, the Cinque Terre, and islands that are daily postcard-perfect scenes. It’s a full-day experience for those who want to see the coast from the water, with food and drink included along the way.
The tour begins at La Spezia’s port, where you’ll board a comfortable vessel. Captain Gerry is known for his hospitality and culinary skills—he cooks fresh pasta on board, and you’ll be able to enjoy local wines and snacks while admiring spectacular views. The itinerary is flexible: you can swim at various secluded spots, explore charming towns, or simply relax and soak up the sun. Gerry is attentive to food intolerances, making this a customizable experience.
Guests often mention how special it is to have a private chef on the water and how the combination of swimming, sightseeing, and eating makes for a memorable day. One reviewer shared, “Gerry cooked us a delicious meal while we swam. It was a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.”
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers and seafood fans wanting a luxury day on the water with excellent food, music, and swimming.
3. La Spezia Cinque Terre Food Tour
Priced at $132.12, this 3.5-hour tour offers a taste of La Spezia’s local cuisine through five stops led by expert Sara. It’s a good choice for those who want a manageable tour that introduces both traditional dishes and street food. During this walk, you’ll visit various eateries, sampling everything from local street snacks to gelato or a sweet ending.
Sara’s local knowledge brings the city’s culinary scene alive, with stops in the bustling city center. You’ll try Ligurian specialties such as focaccia, a variety of pesto-based dishes, and regional desserts. The tour balances the food tastings with casual walks through historic streets, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere.
Although it has a slightly shorter duration, reviews highlight the quality of the food and the warmth of the local culture. One reviewer mentioned, “It was a great way to explore La Spezia and taste authentic Ligurian flavors in just a few hours.”
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers with a limited schedule or those looking for a tasty, relaxed introduction to La Spezia’s culinary scene.
How to Choose Your Perfect Food Tour in La Spezia
When selecting a food experience, consider your interests and schedule. If you want an intimate tasting with local insights, the Taste Cinque Terre on a Food Tour by Do Eat Better is perfect. For those seeking a full day of sightseeing combined with swimming and a cooked meal, the Boat tour 5 terre & Portovenere offers a luxurious experience. If you prefer a shorter, manageable taste of La Spezia’s main flavors, the La Spezia Cinque Terre Food Tour suits travelers on a tighter schedule.
Budget-wise, the tours are similar in price, but their value depends on what’s most important to you: a personalized walk, a scenic cruise, or a quick city highlights tour. Also, booking early is recommended, especially for the boat tour during summer months, to secure your preferred time slot.
La Spezia offers a wonderful variety of food tours, from intimate tastings to scenic boat trips. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a seafood lover, or simply curious about Ligurian flavors, there’s a tour to match your interests. For an authentic experience, small-group walking tours excel, but for relaxation and spectacular views, the boat cruise provides a luxurious day on the water. Whichever you choose, booking early will help ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable culinary adventures.