Day 7: Taking in the Cinque Terre

Day 7 began with cappuccinos and apricot croissants at the café below the Airbnb (£5.50 for 2 cappuccino and 2 croissants!) , before a small ferry tour of three Cinque Terre villages. First stop: Porto Venere, where light drizzle set the scene for a walk to the castle and churches, passing a local fisherwoman selling her fresh catch directly to locals—an inspiring glimpse of sustainable fishing. After coffee and a browse through the charming shopping streets, the boat took you to Monterosso, where, by happy coincidence, the lemon festival was in full swing—lemons everywhere, from cake to spritz. You indulged in a lemon-themed shopping spree, including a new cup and table runner, and enjoyed bruschetta at a local restaurant. The final stop was Vernazza: under the railway bridge, up to the terraced gardens, and into the square to the sound of a violinist—an echo of the harpist in Porto Venere. Returning to La Spezia, you strolled through lively streets, visited the Oyster Festival, and dined at D.A.I. Pescatori—a canteen-style seafood place by the port. The day ended with the thoughtful purchase of a leather jacket for Harry and a contented walk home.Read more