Some travelers mentioned using the train for excursions from La Spezia to the Cinque Terre villages. The train service operates on a winter pattern from November with about one train per hour, and it's suggested to check the schedule in advance.

For seeing Cinque Terre from the sea, travelers have recommended taking a ferry. However, it's noted that ferry services stop in November, so this option is season-dependent.

According to forum posts, the bus route P/11 connects La Spezia to Portovenere, offering an alternative excursion. Travel time is approximately 25 to 30 minutes.

Travelers have suggested an independent trip to Portofino by taking a train to Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino and then a bus to Portofino. This provides a scenic route along the coast.

For local sightseeing, travelers have explored options like visiting nearby towns such as Lerici and Tellaro, accessible by bus or ferry for a less strenuous experience.

According to forum posts, the most common transportation option from La Spezia to Cinque Terre is by train. The Cinque Terre Express Train operates from La Spezia Centrale Station and provides access to the five villages of Cinque Terre. Trains are frequent and the journey to the nearest village, Riomaggiore, takes about seven minutes.

Some travelers mentioned the availability of ferry services from La Spezia to Cinque Terre. These ferries offer a scenic route along the coast, providing views of the towns from the water. However, it's important to check seasonal operations as ferry services may not be available year-round, especially during the winter months.

For those considering driving to La Spezia, there is parking available at La Spezia train station where you can leave your car and take the train to Cinque Terre. This option is convenient for travelers staying in Cinque Terre for multiple days.

According to forum posts, the public bus P/11, also known as 11/P, operates between La Spezia and Portovenere. This route is frequently mentioned as a reliable and convenient way to travel between the two locations.

Travelers have noted that the journey from La Spezia to Portovenere on the P/11 bus typically takes around 25 to 30 minutes. This duration is based on normal traffic conditions.

Forum users have indicated that the cost for a round-trip bus ticket on the P/11 route is approximately 2.50 euros each way. These tickets are valid for travel within zones 1-3, covering both Portovenere and Lerici areas.

Some travelers also mentioned using a hop-on-hop-off service or a small train designed for cruise passengers, but details on these services were less specific in the forum discussions.