Overlooking the Gulf of La Spezia, Lerici is an attractive seaside town on the Italian Riviera. It was originally established by the Etruscans and later came under the control of the Genoese before a series of conflicts with the Pisans. Lerici is connected by ferry to photogenic Portovenere and the enchanting villages of the Cinque Terre.
Things to do in Lerici
Watching over the town is the Castello di Lerici, which was originally built in the 13th century by the Pisans and houses a charming chapel dedicated to Saint Anastasia. It later served as a Genoese prison, with Francis I of France among those incarcerated here. Coincide your visit with one of the changing exhibitions regularly showcased at the castle and enjoy its panoramic views across Lerici.
Stretching beneath the castle is the Lido di Lerici, where you can rent beach umbrellas and sun loungers or just refresh with a swim in the Ligurian Sea. Further north lies the busy Spiaggia di San Terenzo, which is watched over by the turreted tower of a 14th-century fortification. Today, the Castello di San Terenzo hosts seasonal events and exhibitions.
Jump aboard a ferry in Lerici to visit Porto Venere, a colourful fishing village that has been nicknamed the "Sixth Town" of the Cinque Terre. Admire the Gothic-style Church of St. Peter and marvel at the clifftop fortress of Castello Doria. Occupying a nearby island are the rugged landscapes of Porto Venere Regional Natural Park, which is popular with hikers and climbers.
Getting around Lerici
Lerici is around 15 minutes’ drive from La Spezia and 1.5 hours from Genoa. Florence Airport is also 1.5 hours away and has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular buses connect to Lerici and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.