Lerici - red and white concrete buildings under blue sky
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Lerici

4.6
·491k reviews·, Italy

Lerici, the 'Poets' Gulf's' jewel, offers stunning castle views, a vibrant promenade, and charming alleys, a perfect Ligurian escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Lerici - red and white concrete buildings under blue sky

Lerici

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Lerici, the 'Poets' Gulf's' jewel, offers stunning castle views, a vibrant promenade, and charming alleys, a perfect Ligurian escape.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Lerici is a hidden gem, offering breathtaking views and a relaxed vibe away from the tourist crowds."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Alleys

Get lost in Lerici's charming, narrow streets for hidden gems and stunning sea views. :hiking_boot:

🏰 Explore the Castle

Don't miss the castle! You can walk up or take an elevator for incredible views. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lerici Castle

Lerici Castle

Dominating the town's skyline

Explore this historic fortress offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Poets and the Ligurian Sea.

Instagram
Lungomare di Lerici

Lungomare di Lerici

Waterfront promenade

Stroll along the picturesque promenade, lined with colorful buildings, cafes, and stunning sea vistas.

Instagram
Tellaro Village

Tellaro Village

A short distance from Lerici

Discover this enchanting fishing village, often called the 'Corner of Thailand in Liguria' for its beauty.

Instagram+1
La Marinella Beach

La Marinella Beach

Near San Terenzo

Relax at this charming seaside spot, perfect for enjoying the sun and the sound of the waves.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds in Lerici

Lerici offers a charming escape from the Cinque Terre crowds. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for a more relaxed experience. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, especially if you're looking for quieter beach time or exploring the town's nooks and crannies. Reddit

Getting Around Lerici

Lerici is best explored on foot, with its narrow alleys and scenic promenade. For day trips to nearby villages like Tellaro, local buses are a convenient option. Ferries also connect Lerici to other coastal towns, offering beautiful sea views. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

10/10 would recommend 🩵 #italytravel #traveltip #hiddengems #bestkeptsecret #liguriaitaly #cinqueterre #fyp
@lilystravelss
4.7K likes • 163.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Alleys

Get lost in Lerici's charming, narrow streets for hidden gems and stunning sea views. Instagram :hiking_boot:

🏰 Explore the Castle

Don't miss the castle! You can walk up or take an elevator for incredible views. Instagram :camerawithflash:

Ecco cosa fare se ti trovi a Lerici, in un giorno : 1. 📍 Percorrere il sentiero Salita A. Canata , che porta direttamente al centro del paese e vi regalerà dei bellissimi scorci panoramici! 2. 📍Visitare il famoso castello che è raggiungibile sia a piedi attraverso una scalinata o con un ascensore ! 🔶Inoltre è possibile anche visitare l’interno del castello a soli €5 3. 📍 Percorrere un breve tunne...
elenasullaluna
618 likes • 15.7K views
Scommetto che molti arrivano a Lerici per ammirare il castello e passeggiare sul lungomare… ma in quanti sanno che, proprio sotto le sue mura, si nasconde un passaggio? 🗝️ Un tunnel scavato nella roccia - usato come rifugio antiaereo durante la seconda guerra mondiale - parte dal pontile, passa sotto il castello e sbuca nella baia con il ristorante su palafitte “Ciccillo a Mare” e tre piccole cale...
le.griffe.di.fra
149 likes • 2.8K views

🌊 Discover Tellaro

Take a trip to nearby Tellaro, a picturesque village with a unique charm. Instagram :world_map:

☀️ Beach Day Bliss

Enjoy the local beaches like La Marinella for a relaxing day by the sea. Instagram :beachwithumbrella:

Dove si trova e come arrivare a piedi nell’ “Angolo di Thailandia in Liguria”. Come promesso, è arrivato il momento di spiegarvi come arrivare in questo luogo che ha suscitato in voi così tanto interesse! Vi chiedo però di lasciarlo come le trovate senza abbandonare rifiuti ecc, per far sì che altre persone dopo di voi possano godere della sua bellezza💙 📍Questo luogo si chiama LA CALETTA di Ler...
freesoulontheroad
32.8K likes • 1.4M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Alleys

Get lost in Lerici's charming, narrow streets for hidden gems and stunning sea views. Instagram :hiking_boot:

🏰 Explore the Castle

Don't miss the castle! You can walk up or take an elevator for incredible views. Instagram :camerawithflash:

🌊 Discover Tellaro

Take a trip to nearby Tellaro, a picturesque village with a unique charm. Instagram :world_map:

☀️ Beach Day Bliss

Enjoy the local beaches like La Marinella for a relaxing day by the sea. Instagram :beachwithumbrella:

🤫 Hidden Tunnel

Look for the WWII air-raid shelter tunnel near the castle for a unique historical find. Instagram :old_key:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Lerici is praised for its beautiful bay, charming old town, and relaxed atmosphere, offering a delightful alternative to the more crowded Cinque Terre. Visitors appreciate the stunning views from the castle and the picturesque promenade. Some find parking challenging and wish for more diverse dining options beyond seafood.

What People Like

Beautiful bay and views
Charming old town
Less crowded than Cinque Terre

What People Dislike

Parking difficulties
Limited non-seafood dining

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Lerici from La Spezia by car, local bus, or ferry. Buses are frequent and offer a scenic route. Ferries provide beautiful coastal views and are a popular option for day trips. Instagram

Parking in Lerici can be challenging, especially during peak season. It's often best to park outside the town center and walk in, or utilize public transport. Instagram

Lerici does not have a train station. The nearest train station is in La Spezia, from where you can take a bus or ferry to Lerici. TikTok

Yes, Lerici is a very walkable town. Its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make it ideal for exploring on foot. Instagram

Lerici is located a short distance from the Cinque Terre villages. It's often visited as a day trip from Cinque Terre or as an alternative base to escape the crowds. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is an entrance fee to visit Lerici Castle. The ticket price is reasonable and includes access to the castle grounds and any exhibitions. Instagram

While the castle has an entrance fee, exploring the town's charming streets, walking the promenade, and enjoying the beaches (some may have fees for loungers) are free activities. Instagram

Opening hours for Lerici Castle can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Instagram

Tellaro is a village, and there is no entrance fee to explore its streets and enjoy its atmosphere. Instagram

Yes, numerous hotels and vacation rentals in Lerici are available for booking online through platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots from Lerici Castle for panoramic views, the colorful promenade, and the charming alleys. The view of the bay with the castles is iconic. Instagram

The best views of Lerici are typically from Lerici Castle, or from the promenade looking back at the town. For a different perspective, consider a boat trip. Instagram

Absolutely! Tellaro is incredibly photogenic with its narrow, colorful streets leading down to the sea. Every corner offers a postcard-worthy shot. Instagram

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for photography in Lerici. Midday can be harsh, but still offers great views. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in populated areas and near historical sites. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone in Lerici. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Lerici offers delicious Ligurian cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood, pesto, and focaccia. Don't miss trying local specialties like trofie al pesto. Instagram

Yes, Lerici is known for its excellent seafood restaurants, many offering stunning sea views. La Marinella is a popular seaside spot. Instagram

Look for trattorias along the promenade or in the backstreets for authentic Ligurian dishes. Many offer fresh catch of the day. Instagram

While seafood is prominent, most restaurants will offer vegetarian options like pasta al pesto, focaccia, and vegetable dishes. Instagram

Yes, Lerici has numerous cafes for coffee and pastries, as well as gelaterias offering delicious Italian gelato, perfect for a warm afternoon. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lerici is a family-friendly destination with its gentle promenade perfect for strollers and its accessible beaches. The Lerici Castle offers an engaging historical site for children to explore, and the boat trips on the Gulf of Poets can be a fun adventure. Instagram

Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons to avoid the peak summer heat and crowds. Pack plenty of sun protection and snacks, as exploring can lead to spontaneous discoveries. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly options, and the relaxed pace of the town is ideal for families. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

While the Italian Riviera can be pricey, Lerici offers some budget-friendly options. Opt for Airbnb or B&Bs outside the immediate beachfront for more affordable accommodation. TikTokReddit

Enjoy picnics with local focaccia and produce from markets, and take advantage of the free activities like walking the promenade and exploring the town's alleys. Public buses and ferries are more economical than private tours for day trips. Instagram

💖 Couples Retreat

Lerici provides a romantic setting with its stunning sea views and charming atmosphere. Enjoy sunset strolls along the Lungomare, share a gelato, and dine at a seaside restaurant. Instagram

Consider a boat trip around the Gulf of Poets or a visit to the picturesque village of Tellaro for a truly memorable experience. The quieter beaches and less crowded streets compared to Cinque Terre offer a more intimate escape. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Lerici's Coastal Beauty

Lerici, often overshadowed by its Cinque Terre neighbors, offers a more authentic and relaxed Ligurian coastal experience. Its picturesque bay, framed by two historic castles, provides a stunning backdrop for any visit. The town itself is a delightful maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and charming piazzas, inviting leisurely exploration. Instagram+1

Beyond the main town, the surrounding area boasts hidden coves and beautiful beaches. The nearby village of Tellaro, perched dramatically on the cliffs, is a must-visit for its unique atmosphere and breathtaking sea views. It's often described as an 'Angle of Thailand in Liguria' due to its serene beauty. Instagram+1

For those seeking a blend of history, natural beauty, and a less crowded Italian coastal town, Lerici is an excellent choice. Its accessibility from La Spezia and its own unique attractions make it a worthwhile destination for travelers looking to discover the lesser-known gems of the Italian Riviera.

Exploring Lerici's Historical Sites

The most prominent historical landmark in Lerici is its imposing Castle, perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea. This medieval fortress offers not only a glimpse into the region's past but also provides unparalleled panoramic views of the Gulf of Poets. Visitors can explore its ramparts and learn about its strategic importance throughout history. Instagram

Interestingly, beneath the castle's walls lies a fascinating hidden tunnel. This passage, carved into the rock, served as an air-raid shelter during World War II and now connects the pontoon to a bay featuring a restaurant. It's a unique historical feature that adds another layer to Lerici's story. Instagram

Beyond the castle, the entire town of Lerici is steeped in history, with its ancient alleyways and traditional Ligurian architecture. The nearby village of San Terenzo also boasts its own castle, adding to the rich historical tapestry of the area. Instagram

Lerici as a Base for Day Trips

Many travelers choose Lerici as a base to explore the wider Ligurian coast, especially as an alternative to the often-crowded Cinque Terre villages. Its strategic location allows for easy day trips to various points of interest. Reddit

From Lerici, you can easily visit the Cinque Terre by taking a ferry or bus to La Spezia and then catching a train. This offers a way to experience the famous villages without the hassle of staying directly within them. TikTok

Furthermore, the charming villages of Tellaro and San Terenzo are just a short bus or boat ride away, offering their own unique beauty and tranquility. The Gulf of Poets itself is perfect for boat excursions, allowing you to see the coastline from a different perspective and discover secluded coves. Instagram+1

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