Trains to Portovenerefrom € 9.99

Arriving to Portovenere, a delightful small town in the Liguria region of Italy, by train is an easy and convenient experience. The train station, Porto Venere, is located on the western shore of the town and is served by both regional and international lines.

From the train station there are various transportation options available to explore the town. You can take a ferry to visit the five islands off the coast, rent a bike to move around the area, or take a bus to visit the nearby towns of Lerici and La Spezia.

If you'd like to explore the historic centre of Portovenere, it's easily reached on foot. Begin your visit in front of the station, then make your way towards the old Church of St. Peter. From there, you can follow the narrow streets, full of historic buildings and monuments, as well as plenty of restaurants and cafés.

Finally, don't forget to explore the promenade, where you can admire stunning views of the Palmaria and Tino islands. With so much to do and see, a visit to Portovenere by train is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

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!