San Gimignano to La Spezia and Portovenere: Private day trip

Since the days of the Roman Empire La Spezia has been one of the region’s most important ports and trade centers. It’s also home to Italy’s largest naval base. Many travelers overlook that it also has an atmospheric Old Town and is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Walking the narrow lanes, it’s still possible to see architectural elements ranging from engraved 14th century portals to double lancet windows, baroque pediments, and embellishments often seen on Renaissance palaces. The Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta offers a survey of changing architectural styles as it took 600 years to fully complete. For a more nuanced look at Italian history, head to the 13th century San Giorgio Castle, which has an archaeological museum with artefacts dating back to the Copper Age. The Naval Technical Museum offers fascinating insights into Italian naval history with fantastic displays like cannons, dive suits, model ships, and control panels from battleships.

An ancient Roman fishing community, it’s supposedly named after a temple to Venus that once stood on fortified promontory where the church of Peter the Apostle stands today. An interesting architectural amalgamation, the church’s original structure dates back to the 5th century, while the sections with black and white banding is from the 13th. Architecture fans will also want to visit the Romanesque church of St. Lawrence, erected in 1098 on the site of ancient temple dedicated to Jupiter, and of course the 12th century walls surrounding the city. Literature lovers can stop by Byron’s Grotto, where local legend says Lord Byron meditated and drew inspiration. Of course, as a seaside Italian village, relaxing with some fresh local food would suit every visitor’s travel tastes.