We are traveling to Italy in mid-September, flying into Florence, then traveling via public transportation to several of the towns in Cinque Terre. From there we want to take public transportation to Barga, where we will stay a few days, then on to Lucca for four days. We are wondering if there is any train or bus transportation that we can take from La Spezia (once we have visited Cinque Terra) directly to Barga. The only route we have been able to identify takes us to Lucca, then on to Barga, at which point we would have to re-trace our steps and return to Lucca. We know that La Spezia has a train station, but have been unable to identify any train it might run to Barga....or, bus, if that might be the case. We have no interest in renting a car. Can you please help us with our inquiry?
Thanks much.
Kathleen, AFAIK, travel to Barga can be done either by train or Bus. If travelling from the Cinque Terre, I'd probably use the train. One of the easiest trips is a departure from La Spezia Centrale at 06:51, arriving Barga-Gallicano at 09:15 (time 2H:24M, one change at Pisa Centrale, reservations compulsory on first leg, current fares listed at €20.30 PP). You should be able to take a Taxi from the station to your hotel, which is the method I'd use. I'm assuming Taxi's will be readily available at the station. Barga looks like an interesting smaller town. If you have time, it would be great to see a Trip Report after you return. Happy travels!