One of the many advantages of staying in Portovenere is its strategic location. Nestled between Liguria and Tuscany, Portovenere makes for an ideal base to discover two of Italy’s most fascinating regions in a single holiday.
After exploring the colorful medieval hamlet, its islands, and coastal trails of the Gulf of Poets, you can easily set off for a day trip to Tuscany—whether you’re looking for hidden gems off the beaten path or world-famous cities.
Discover Lunigiana: The Land of 100 Castles
If you love history, authenticity, and untouched landscapes, Lunigiana will capture your heart. This lesser-known historial region is set between Tuscany, Liguria and Emilia Romagna, yet it preserves a distinct identity shaped by ancient civilizations and noble families.
- Pontremoli – Known as the gateway to Tuscany, this town is famous for its medieval bridges, stone houses, and the Museum of the Statue Stele, which displays enigmatic human-shaped stone statues dating back thousands of years. Pontremoli’s old town, with its stairways and alleys, is a joy to explore on foot.
- Fivizzano – Sometimes called the “Florence of Lunigiana,” this elegant town boasts charming piazzas, churches, and fountains. History enthusiasts will love visiting Castello dell’Aquila in nearby Gragnola, a once-ruined fortress that has been beautifully restored into a cultural venue.
- Fosdinovo – Overlooking the Magra Valley, Fosdinovo is home to one of the most impressive Malaspina castles in the region. Its thick walls and towers tell the story of centuries of noble power and battles, yet today it hosts exhibitions, cultural events, and even overnight stays.
These towns reflect the true soul of Tuscany away from the crowds. Driving through Lunigiana, you’ll encounter rolling hills, chestnut woods, and winding roads dotted with medieval hamlets. It’s the perfect destination if you want to experience Tuscany as it once was.
Iconic Tuscan Cities within Easy Reach from Portovenere
If you’re visiting for the first time, no trip to Tuscany would be complete without discovering its most famous cities—and from Portovenere, many are less than a 90-minute drive away.
- Pisa – Just over an hour away, Pisa is world-renowned for its Leaning Tower, but there’s so much more to see. Stroll around the monumental Piazza dei Miracoli, visit the cathedral and baptistery, and don’t miss the charming historic center with its cafés and boutiques.
- Lucca – About 90 minutes from Portovenere, Lucca is a city encircled by perfectly preserved Renaissance walls. You can walk or cycle along the tree-lined ramparts before getting lost in its cobblestone streets, Romanesque churches, and lively squares. Read more about visiting Lucca.
- Carrara – Famous for its white marble quarries that supplied Michelangelo and countless Renaissance artists, Carrara is less than an hour away. A guided tour of the marble caves offers an extraordinary insight into the artistry and effort behind Tuscany’s most iconic material.
- Massa – Often overlooked, Massa combines marble heritage with a charming old town dominated by the Malaspina Castle. It’s a quieter stop that pairs well with a visit to Carrara.
If you have more time, you can also reach Florence, Tuscany’s most celebrated city, in about 2 hours and 30 minutes by car or conveniently by train. However, we encourage travelers to embrace the philosophy of Slow Travel, savoring smaller towns and hidden gems for a more authentic, sustainable, and responsible way to explore Tuscany.
Why Base Yourself in Portovenere
Choosing Portovenere as your base gives you the best of both worlds: a seaside retreat with views of the Gulf of Poets and the Cinque Terre, and quick access to Tuscany’s treasures. After a day of exploring castles, cobblestone streets, or leaning towers, you can return to the tranquillity of the Ligurian coast—enjoying a sunset aperitivo by the sea before dining at Palmaria Restaurant and retreating to your room at Grand Hotel Portovenere.
From Lunigiana’s hidden villages to Tuscany’s iconic landmarks, all of this is within reach on a day trip from Portovenere.
Cover image: Fosdinovo – Image by Tanja Schwarz-Krapp from Pixabay
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