The region of Liguria, cradled between the Alps and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, offers an Italian Riviera experience unlike any other. Remnants of ancient times persist in the form of monuments, buildings, and streets throughout cities and towns such as La Spezia and the Cinque Terre villages. Additionally, the Gulf of Poets, officially known as the Gulf of La Spezia, stretches between Portovenere and Lerici. Anchored by the area’s local capital, La Spezia, this enchanting bay has been a muse for poets and artists including David Herbert Law- rence, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and Lord Byron. 

Liguria’s charm lies in its contrasts: rugged coastlines giving way to sun-drenched beaches and vibrant towns whispering tales of pirates and poets. Thanks to the port city location, the area hosts the Naval Academy, Italy’s top naval and mechanical engineering programs, globally prominent shipping logistics, and world-renowned studios for naval design. In addition to La Spezia’s longstanding history, it is also the birthplace of the Italian Futurist movement. Nearby within short travel distances are also the town of Sarzana, the marble quarries and Apuan Alps of Tuscany, Lucca, and the Tuscan Riviera towns of Versilia such as Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio.

Fast Facts

• Population: 93,000 inhabitants
• Location: Province of La Spezia, Liguria Region
• Transportation: Major train station, taxis, buses
• Lifestyle: Coastal port town with walkable city center and seaside boardwalk.
• Major museums: Amedeo Lia Civic Museum, Castello di San Giorgio Archeological Museum, CAMeC contemporary art, National Museum of Transportation, Naval Museum, Museum of Seals, Ethnographic Museum.
• Libraries: Four major libraries and archives.
• Nature: Public and historical gardens within the city, starting
• Health: 15 public and private healthcare facilities within the city.

Cinque Terre Riviera Program Benefits

• Year-round temperate climate
• A lesser-known city environment with an urban lifestyle
• Conveniently located for travel to France and other parts of northern and central Italy
• Proximity to the sea and nature
• High concentration of academic and industry environments
• Riviera-only or 2-City Program including Florence