Il Papeoto

Top choice in La Spezia


This friendly osteria (casual tavern) turns out Instagram-worthy plates of creative, cruelty-free delicacies. Rich, complex flavours feature prominently in dishes like gnocchi with salty ricotta cheese and almonds or crispy egg asparagus with saffron sauce; don't overlook the imaginative desserts. The setting inspires zen-like calm, with vintage botanical prints on the walls, chic industrial fixtures, and touches of greenery. Reservations recommended.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby La Spezia attractions

1. Museo Amedeo Lia

0.19 MILES

This fine-arts museum in a restored 17th-century friary is La Spezia's star cultural attraction. The collection spans from the 13th to 18th centuries and…

2. Museo Tecnico Navale della Spezia

0.2 MILES

Maritime lovers shouldn't miss the world's oldest naval museum, which is reached via a narrow bridge a few blocks southwest of Parco Salvador Allende. The…

3. Castello di San Giorgio

0.23 MILES

An assortment of local archaeological artefacts from prehistoric to medieval times are displayed at the city's hilltop fortifications. You'll see finely…

4. Via del Prione

0.27 MILES

If you have limited time in La Spezia, make sure you prioritise a stroll along this picturesque pedestrian lane that winds through the historic centre…

5. Ponte Thaon di Revel

0.47 MILES

Opened to much fanfare in 2013, this photogenic cable-stayed pedestrian bridge connects the city with the port. Vaguely resembling a large double-masted…

6. Porto Mirabello

0.58 MILES

It's worth taking a stroll down to the waterfront and across the scenic Ponte Thaon di Revel for a look at La Spezia's modern, expansive port. You'll see…

7. Castello Doria

3.76 MILES

No one knows when the original castle was built, though the current structure – a formidable example of Genoese military architecture – dates from the…

8. Grotta di Byron

3.78 MILES

At the end of the quay, a Cinque Terre panorama unfolds from the rocky terraces of a cave formerly known as Grotta Arpaia. Lord Byron once swam across the…