We had planned to visit cinque terre and used La Spezia as a cheaper home base and to also explore Porto Venere. Del Sole seemed to be the only available option since we booked last minute. The website claims that it is a five minute walk from the station, that is so untrue! You have to wait for the bus outside the station, we waited for about half hour.Once inside the bus it is five minutes to the 1st bus stop. Then you spend time asking for directions because the owners have not thought that this little bit matters when you are carrying luggage. The locals at La Spezia are wonderful and showed us the way (helps if you understand a bit of italian, else interpret from hand gestures). Il Sole is located just off the main fruit and vegetable market and also close to a Zara shop. The street around is very quaint and is a nice locality. It is walking distance to the main bus stand from where you can do day trip to Porto Venere. Once inside the entrance you have to carry your luggage up a flight of stairs, they wont allow you to use the elevator! Not a very inviting place when you arrive. The rooms are large, roomy and clean. They do not provide breakfast in the price, but on request, the owners allowed us to use the kitchen. The bathrooms are spacious, clean but had problems with plumbing.
- Albergo Del Sole La Spezia
