As the gateway to the famous Cinque Terre , La Spezia attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world every year. While the city is not one of the most dangerous in Italy , some neighborhoods deserve special attention, and others are better suited for tourists.
Here is a complete guide to safety in La Spezia and practical advice to ensure your stay goes smoothly: Areas to favor for your accommodation and neighborhoods to avoid in La Spezia.
Is La Spezia a safe city?
The crime rate in La Spezia is very low compared to the Italian average and many other Italian tourist cities. It is around 27, while the average index for Italy is around 47 (moderate level).
Compared to other Italian tourist cities like Milan , Florence or Rimini , La Spezia is much safer.
In La Spezia, violent crime, assaults, and armed robberies are very rare. The main types of crime are petty theft and offenses related to drug use or trafficking. However, these cases remain moderate and localized in certain neighborhoods, which should be avoided, especially at night.
Areas to avoid in La Spezia
Although generally safe, La Spezia has a few areas where vigilance is advised, particularly during the night hours:
- The neighborhood around the central Station and the area Nail Street : This area is known for the concentrated presence of bars and clubs which can cause noise, violent behavior, theft and incivility.
- Fossitermi : This neighborhood has problems with petty crime, including drug trafficking in certain parks such as Rimembranza Park.
- The San Venerio district : reported for drug-related activity, best to avoid this area or travel with caution.
- The industrial district around the port, particularly in northeast of Via Napoli, is a fairly isolated and little-frequented area, not recommended after sunset.
- More generally, outlying districts of La Spezia which are less frequented and less lively present a more marked feeling of insecurity, particularly in the evening.
Best areas to stay in La Spezia
For a peaceful, well-connected and secure stay in Cinque Terre, here are the recommended areas for tourists:
- The historic center (Centro Storico): This is the safest and liveliest area, with a constant police presence. The well-lit streets are lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops open late, providing a friendly and reassuring atmosphere. Furthermore, from the historic center, it is easy to take public transport to the Cinque Terre.
- The Umbertino district Located west of the cruise terminal, this area combines residential calm with proximity to transport, overseen by a close-knit local community. The Art Nouveau buildings and family atmosphere provide a pleasant and secure setting.
- Fossamastra (to the east) : Ideal for families, with access to beaches and local amenities, this area is a good balance between local life and tourist access.
These areas are safe, have suitable infrastructure for travelers and are served by regular public transport, making travel to the Cinque Terre easy.
What accommodation is available in these areas?
For your stay in La Spezia, here are 2 hotels ideally located in safe and convenient areas for a tourist stay and for access to the Cinque Terre:
Hotel in the historic center
This area is ideal for visiting La Spezia on foot but also for being just a few minutes' walk from La Spezia train station, the starting point for the Cinque Terre by train.
- The Poet Hotel: This modern, 4-star hotel is often recommended. It is just a short walk from the train station, making it ideal for exploring the Cinque Terre and the lively historic center.
Accommodation in the Umbertino district
This neighborhood is a good alternative if you want a quieter environment while remaining close to amenities. It is both residential and well served by public transport.
- Cà nell'Umbertino – 150 mt from the Station: As the name suggests, this accommodation is just 150 meters from the train station. It's a great choice if you want to minimize your travel time to Cinque Terre while staying in a less hectic area than the city center.
