Things To Do
in Lerici

Lerici is a picturesque coastal town located in the Liguria region of Italy, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marina. With its charming narrow streets and colorful houses, the town offers a delightful Mediterranean atmosphere. Lerici serves as a gateway to the Cinque Terre, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding coastline.

The town's rich history is reflected in its ancient castle and beautiful churches, attracting visitors who appreciate both culture and natural beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Lerici
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Lerici Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf of Poets. Afterward, stroll through the charming old town and visit the local shops.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a seaside restaurant and then spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach or taking a swim in the crystal-clear waters.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk along the promenade to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Cinque Terre
morning
:

Take an early train or ferry to the Cinque Terre. Start with a visit to Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five villages.

afternoon
:

Hike the scenic trails connecting the villages, stopping for lunch in Vernazza, known for its charming harbor.

evening
:

Return to Lerici for dinner at a local trattoria, indulging in fresh seafood dishes, and enjoy a nightcap at a nearby bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$2
🍕Pizza$8
🏖️Beach chair rental$10
🚍Bus ticket (local)$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Breathtaking coastal views and beaches.
  • Charming historical architecture and atmosphere.
  • Excellent local cuisine, particularly seafood.
  • Can be crowded during peak summer months.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some attractions may be closed in winter.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Mi scusi" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Lerici

Visit one of these nice places.

Lerici Castle

The medieval castle offers stunning views of the Gulf of Poets and makes for a dramatic backdrop.

Beach at San Terenzo

This beach area is perfect for capturing vibrant sunset shots with the colorful houses in the background.

Marina di Lerici

The marina is filled with picturesque boats and offers great angles for capturing the essence of coastal life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lerici

Lerici offers a delightful culinary experience with its abundance of fresh seafood and traditional Ligurian dishes.

Lerici Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Trofie al Pesto

A local pasta dish made with trofie (twisted pasta) and a flavorful basil pesto.

Must-Try!

Frittura di Pesce

A mixed fried seafood dish, often served with lemon and a side of salad.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Lerici

A vibrant local market held weekly, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and street food stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lerici has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures rarely drop below 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is common in the fall and winter months, particularly from October to February, whereas spring and summer are generally dry and sunny.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening) is customary when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

It’s polite to wait for everyone at the table to be served before starting to eat.

Dress Code

While casual dress is acceptable, Italians tend to dress well, especially in the evenings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lerici is considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Lerici

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a small tip (around 10%) for good service in restaurants, but it's not obligatory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in most places; however, carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Summers can be hot and crowded, especially in July and August, perfect for beach lovers but advisable to book accommodations in advance.

Autumn

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, ideal for exploring the region's natural beauty and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Winters are mild, but some attractions may have reduced hours. It's a peaceful time to experience the town without crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Lerici at Night

Lerici’s nightlife is laid-back, with a mix of seaside bars and cozy restaurants. Many places offer live music, especially during the summer months, creating a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a drink with friends. You can find beach bars that stay open late, serving cocktails and local wines, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Lerici

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero Azzurro

A scenic coastal trail connecting the villages of Cinque Terre, offering stunning views and varied landscapes.

Monte Marcello Nature Reserve

This hiking area provides trails through beautiful natural scenery, with panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea.

Airports

How to reach Lerici by plane.

Pisa International Airport (PSA)

Located about 80 km from Lerici, this airport serves numerous international and domestic flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lerici is highly walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and beaches accessible on foot. The town's compact size and pedestrian-friendly pathways make it easy to explore, although some areas may include steep inclines. Strolling through the picturesque streets while enjoying the local scenery is a highlight of visiting Lerici.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population mainly consists of locals who are engaged in tourism, fishing, and small businesses.

Tourists

During the summer, Lerici attracts a diverse group of tourists from around the world, contributing to the town's vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport among locals, with community teams and events often taking place.

Water Sports

Given its coastal location, water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are highly popular.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Lerici is generally light, especially outside of peak tourist season. Parking can be limited in the town center, so public transportation, such as buses and ferries, is a convenient option for getting around. Local buses connect Lerici with nearby towns and La Spezia, while ferries provide access to the Cinque Terre.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lerici.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free pasta and bread are available in some places; however, it's best to inquire in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Lerici is accessible, with a local health clinic providing basic medical services. For more specialized care, hospitals are located in nearby La Spezia, which is about 15 minutes away by car. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide