La Spezia's contemporary art museum occupies a converted palazzo near the city centre and holds a surprisingly good collection for a city this size. The permanent collection covers Italian modern art from the late 19th century onwards, with particular strength in the work of artists connected to Liguria and the Gulf of Poets — the stretch of coast that drew Shelley, Byron, and later the Futurists.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions; check what's on when you visit, as these are often more interesting than the permanent galleries. Entry is reasonably priced and the building itself — with a glazed inner courtyard — is pleasant to spend time in.
Address: Piazza Cesare Battisti 1. Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–18:00.