Trains from Florence to Portovenere

Are you ready for a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and a touch of Italian enchantment? Hop on board and let me take you on a mesmerizing train ride from the cultural hub of Florence to the picturesque coastal town of Portovenere.

The fastest route from Florence to Portovenere takes you through the heart of Tuscany and Liguria, rewarding you with stunning views along the way. The main station in Florence is Santa Maria Novella (Firenze Santa Maria Novella), while Portovenere can be reached via La Spezia Centrale (La Spezia Centrale) station.

Covering a distance of approximately 170 kilometers, this journey introduces you to some iconic destinations. After departing Florence, the train will make stops at Pisa (Pisa Centrale) and Livorno (Livorno Centrale), offering a glimpse of their unique charms. In Pisa, don't miss the world-famous Leaning Tower, while Livorno boasts picturesque canals and a buzzing seafood scene.

Continuing towards the coast, the train will pass by the colorful town of Viareggio, known for its beautiful beaches and carnival festivities. From Viareggio, you'll be treated to scenic views of the Ligurian Sea as you approach La Spezia, the gateway to the enchanting Cinque Terre region.

Finally, after a short train ride from La Spezia, you will arrive at the gem of the Ligurian coast, Portovenere. This small town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a charming harbor, pastel-colored houses, and breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. Don't miss the iconic Church of San Pietro, perched atop a rocky promontory, and the stunning Byron's Cave, named after the famous poet Lord Byron.

As you conclude this unforgettable journey and step off the train in Portovenere, take a moment to breathe in the fresh sea air and immerse yourself in the beauty that surrounds you. Whether it's exploring the town's historic center, indulging in seafood delicacies, or simply basking in the tranquility of the coast, Portovenere will capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.

So, pack your bags and embark on this enchanting train journey from Florence to Portovenere. Let the beauty of Tuscany and Liguria unfold before your eyes and create memories that will last a lifetime. Bon voyage!

Welcome to Florence, Italy, the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to some of the most amazing historical and architectural sites in the world. From awe-inspiring art galleries and botanical gardens to awe-inspiring churches and piazzas, Florence is a must-see destination. Here are seven must-see sites and what to eat in Florence. 

The Duomo: The Duomo, or Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, is the largest and most beautiful of Florence’s churches. A stunning example of Renaissance architecture, the Duomo is the perfect spot to admire the city’s stunning beauty. Located in the Piazza del Duomo, entrance costs €20 and is open every day from 8 AM to 7 PM. Insider tip: climb to the top of the bell tower for a breathtaking view of the city.

The Palazzo Vecchio: Located in the center of the city, the Palazzo Vecchio is a palace and one of the oldest buildings in Florence. Built in the 16th century, the palace houses the city’s government and is the perfect spot to admire beautiful Renaissance art and architecture. Entrance costs €7 and is open daily from 8:15 AM to 7 PM. Insider tip: arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Santa Croce: Located in the center of Florence, Santa Croce is a stunning 13th-century basilica known for its frescoes and the tombs of famous Italian artists. Entrance costs €10 and is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Insider tip: take a guided tour to learn more about the history and art of the basilica.

The Uffizi Museum: One of the oldest and most popular art museums in the world, the Uffizi Museum houses a stunning collection of Renaissance art and sculptures. Located on the banks of the Arno River, entrance costs €25 and is open daily from 8:15 AM to 6:50 PM. Insider tip: the lines can be long, so be sure to buy tickets in advance.

Boboli Gardens: Located at the back of the Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Gardens is a stunning 16th-century Italian garden filled with statues, fountains, and secret pathways. Entrance costs €10 and is open daily from 8:15 AM to 6 PM. Insider tip: visit in spring to see the gardens in full bloom.

Ponte Vecchio: Ponte Vecchio is one of the most famous bridges in Italy and one of the oldest in the world. Spanning the Arno River, the bridge is lined with shops and filled with history. Insider tip: take a stroll across the bridge at night for stunning views of the city.

Eating in Florence: Last but not least, no trip to Florence is complete without sampling some of the delicious food. From steak and pizza to gelato and tiramisu, Florence has something for everyone. Insider tip: be sure to try all the local specialties, such as Tuscan bread, Wild Boar Salami, and Pecorino Cheese.

From the iconic Duomo to the stunning Boboli Gardens, Florence is full of amazing sites to see and experiences to be had. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a city to explore, Florence is the perfect destination. So, grab your camera and get ready for an unforgettable trip.

Portovenere is a charming Italian port city situated at the eastern end of the Gulf of La Spezia in Liguria. Its winding alleys, ancient churches and old-fashioned fishing boats make it an idyllic destination for anyone looking to explore the Italian Riviera. Whether you are a history buff or a nature enthusiast, Portovenere offers plenty of attractions and activities that will make your trip unforgettable. Here are the seven must-visit historical sites and experiences that you should not miss when travelling to Portovenere. 

Chiesa di San Pietro: The Chiesa di San Pietro is a historic church located in the old fishing village of Portovenere itself. Built in the 12th century, it is the oldest church in the city, and the only one with a Gothic-style façade. The views from the church are stunning, and the interior is decorated with precious frescoes and a crypt from the 14th century. The entry fee is €7 and the church is open every day from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

Castle of Doria: The Doria Castle overlooks the sea and was built in the 13th century by the powerful Doria family. It has now been converted into a museum, with displays of ancient armours and weapons and a 13th-century ‘war room’. There is a €3 entry fee, with reduced admission for students, and the castle is open from 9:00am to 5:00pm every day.

Palmaria Island: The Palmaria Island is located just off of Portovenere. It is home to numerous hiking trails and unspoiled beaches, perfect for nature lovers. There is a ferry service that runs regularly from Portovenere to Palmaria, with tickets costing €5. You can also take a more leisurely boat ride with a tour guide for €10.

La Spezia: The city of La Spezia is located just south of Portovenere and is accessible by boat. La Spezia is home to several historical sites, such as the San Bartolomeo Cathedral.

Cinque Terre: The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre is located on the coast of the Ligurian Sea, just south of Portovenere. It is home to five picturesque fishing villages that you can explore by boat or by foot. The train from La Spezia takes less than an hour, and tickets cost €8.

Local Cuisine: When in Portovenere, don’t forget to sample the local cuisine. Local dishes include anchovies, pesto, ricci di mare (sea urchin) and focaccia di Recco. The street food in the city is especially popular, with panini being the go-to snack for many locals.

Scuba Diving: Portovenere is located near several popular dive sites. You can explore underwater caves and shipwrecks, as well as a wide range of sea life. Most dive centres in the area offer equipment and instructor-led tours.

 

From its charming cobbled streets to its stunning surroundings, Portovenere is a perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the Italian Riviera. Now that you know the must-visit sites in the area, all that’s left to do is to start planning your trip!