Palio del Golfo 2026 — La Spezia’s Historic Boat Race

The Palio del Golfo is La Spezia’s most spectacular annual event — a heart-pounding boat race where the city’s 13 seaside villages (borgate) compete for glory across the Gulf of Poets. Held every year on the first Sunday of August, this is Liguria’s answer to Siena’s Palio — but on water.

What to Expect

Starting in the late afternoon, teams of four rowers in traditional wooden gozzi race a 2,000-metre course from the Porto Mirabello channel to the finish line at Passeggiata Morin. The atmosphere is pure Italian festa — flags, chants, smoke bombs in village colours, and thousands of spectators lining the waterfront.

Before the main race, there’s a parade of the borgate through the city centre with costumed crews, drummers, and flag-throwers. The race itself starts around 18:00, with the prize ceremony and fireworks following at 22:30.

Where to Watch

• Passeggiata Morin — best views of the finish line, arrive by 16:00 for a spot
• Porto Mirabello — see the start and the boats jostling for position
• Molo Italia — panoramic views of the entire course
• Any waterfront bar — grab an Aperol spritz and watch from the terrace

Practical Tips

• Trains from Genoa and Cinque Terre run extra services on race day — but they’re packed. Book your seat early.
• Park near the train station and walk — the entire seafront closes to traffic by 15:00.
• Eat before you go at one of La Spezia’s excellent trattorias.
• The party continues at the village stands along the port until late — each borgata sets up food and drink stalls.