La Spezia is an important port city in the Liguria region along the coast of the Ligurian Sea, often called "the gateway to the Cinque Terre. Trains leave from the La Spezia Centrale rail station for Monterosso, and during the tourist steason the passage can also be made by boat from the port. The citiy's mild climate makes it a popular destination throughout the year.

But La Spezia isn't just a train stop-over. You should see the port and the covered market, then descend into the below-ground restaurant called All'Inferno, Via Lorenzo Costa, 3 near the market. Closed Sunday.

The market is surrounded by stores and cafes; we recommend La Bonta di Giulia for fantastic breads and the foccaccia that Liguria is known for. It's on the east side of the market at Piazza Cavour 44.

Before you go, be sure to check out the fabulous Archaeological Museum inside Castello di San Giorgio.