We are going to be staying near Spezia and would like to drive to see cities such as Portofino, Livorno, etc. Can anyone suggest a map they've used that had enough detail to show the main roads along this stretch of coast?
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
There is only one road and it doesn't go through any of the five towns. It's higher up than the towns. Quite twisty as well. With rare circumstances, tourist cars are not permitted in the five towns. You just can't drive around. Here's a LINK to what you can see on Google.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32398 posts
John, In addition to a good Map ( Michelin is one that I often use), I'd suggest packing along a GPS unit. They're not infallible, but can be a VERY useful travel accessory. I assume you're aware of the usual potentially expensive "caveats" regarding driving in Italy? If not, post another note for further information. For visiting the five towns of the Cinque Terre, it's usually better to park in La Spezia and use the local trains. The only town of the five with substantial parking is Monterosso. They were in the process of building a new car park there last year, but not sure if it was affected by the floods. Happy travels!
Posted by
OP
CA, USA
1266 posts
Thanks for the info. Yes, we have a GPS and would not travel without it. The reason I want a map is to see what is nearby. For example if we go to Portofino I'd like a map with enough detail to show nearby towns; perhaps a 20km detour would take us to some town for lunch or an afternoon browsing. Once you know specifically where you want to go the GPS is great, but its hard to get a picture of the overall area on the small handheld we have. We have driven in Italy on past trips and found it relatively easy. The roads are well marked, and we are careful for ZTL traps. As for CT, we were there on a previous visit and that is one place we probably will not go this trip since we've already been there. But having liked the area, that's why we're staying near Spezia and hoping to find more of the same.