Lucca tour & Pisa tower + Wine Tasting by van from La Spezia

If you’re cruising along Italy’s Ligurian coast and looking to experience Tuscany beyond the usual tourist spots, this Lucca tour & Pisa Tower + Wine Tasting by van from La Spezia offers a charming and authentic taste of the region. While it’s a day trip that packs a lot into just 8 hours, it manages to balance historical sights, scenic drives, and a genuine connection to local Tuscan life.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to stroll through Lucca’s well-preserved medieval walls and discover its tiny artisan shops. Second, the opportunity to taste some of the best wines Tuscany has to offer in a cozy winery—a delicious, sensory break from sightseeing. The only consideration? The schedule is tight, so if you’re craving extensive time in each spot, this might feel rushed. However, for those wanting a well-organized overview with authentic touches, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This trip suits travelers who appreciate small groups, want a local guide’s perspective, and prefer a mix of history, scenery, and wine—without the hassle of self-driving. It’s especially ideal for cruise passengers or anyone short on time but eager to dive into Tuscany’s charm.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Authentic local visits—from artisan shops in Lucca to a family-run vineyard.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned van with scenic drives.
• Balanced itinerary covering Lucca, Pisa, and a wine tasting with a light lunch.
• Expert driver-guide sharing local insights and stories.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation and pay-later options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Lucca: A Medieval Treasure

The day begins with a personalized pickup from La Spezia’s cruise terminal or port, where your driver will meet you with a clear sign. Immediately, you’ll notice the ease of having a private vehicle whisking you through the rolling Tuscan hills, away from tourist buses and crowded itineraries. The drive to Lucca takes roughly an hour, providing a scenic preview of Tuscany’s patchwork of vineyards and olive groves.

Once you arrive, the magic of Lucca’s historic city walls comes into view. Unlike many Italian cities, Lucca’s walls are still intact and open for walking or biking—perfect for a gentle stroll. We loved the way the guide explained the walls’ history and how they served as a defensive barrier, now transformed into a picturesque promenade.

Inside the walls, the city’s charm shines through narrow cobblestone streets, medieval towers, and bustling piazzas. The highlight? The Leaning Tower of Lucca, an intriguing and less-visited cousin to Pisa’s famous leaner, but no less charming. Our reviews highlight how the city retains a genuine artisan feel, with tiny shops and local cafes that haven’t been overrun by travelers.

Expect about two hours in Lucca—enough time to soak in the atmosphere, snap pictures of the city walls, and explore its quiet corners. Our reviewers loved the friendly, knowledgeable guides who shared stories about Lucca’s history and hidden spots. One visitor noted, “We could’ve spent so much more time there,” which underscores how captivating this city is.

Scenic Drive and the Vineyard Experience

After Lucca, your driver-guide will take you on a short 30-minute drive through the Tuscan countryside—think rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves—until you reach a local, family-run winery. This isn’t a commercialized stop; it’s a genuine taste of Tuscany.

Here, you’ll enjoy a light lunch paired with some of the region’s best wines. The selection typically includes local varieties, and you’ll get a tour of the cellar, where the winemakers explain their process and traditions. One review highlights how the wine tasting was of top quality, and the intimate setting made it easy to ask questions and learn about Tuscan viticulture. It’s a simple, relaxed experience, but one that offers real insight into the region’s wine culture.

The 30-minute drive back to the bus allows you to unwind and take in more scenic views, often accompanied by stories from your guide about local life and lesser-known sights.

Visiting Pisa: The Iconic Leaning Tower

The final leg of the journey takes you to Pisa, where you’ll spend about one hour exploring the square and the tower. The photo stop is a highlight, with plenty of time to capture shots of the Pisa Cathedral, Baptistery, and the famous Leaning Tower.

While some might wish for more time here, the guided nature of the tour ensures you see the key sights without feeling rushed. The reviews praise the friendly guides’ explanations and how effortlessly they manage the timing, ensuring travelers get a good snapshot of Pisa’s architectural marvels.

Practical Details and Tour Mechanics

This tour is designed for small groups—limited to 15 participants—which enhances the experience by avoiding large crowds and allowing for more personalized attention. The air-conditioned van ensures comfort, especially during the warm Tuscan summers.

Booking is flexible, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance. Payment is deferred until after booking, adding peace of mind for travelers with unpredictable schedules. The tour runs about 8 hours, with start times varying based on your chosen date—check availability for precise scheduling.

Your driver-guide will speak English, Italian, and Spanish, making it accessible for international travelers. Accessibility is also considered, with wheelchair access available.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authenticity and Value

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic experiences. From strolling Lucca’s ancient walls and discovering artisan shops to tasting wines in a family-run vineyard, every step feels genuine. The reviews underscore this; one visitor said, “Raffael was friendly, knowledgeable, and wanted to make sure we enjoyed ourselves,” emphasizing the personal touch.

Considering the price of $191.45 per person, the tour offers a lot of value—transport, expert guiding, wine tasting, a light lunch, and visits to two famed towns. Compared to the cost of independent travel or larger group tours, this personalized experience delivers a well-rounded snapshot of Tuscany’s essence without overwhelming.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This journey is perfect for cruise passengers who want a hassle-free way to see Italy’s inland treasures, or for travelers short on time but eager for a meaningful taste of Tuscany. If you appreciate small groups, authentic local stops, and expert guidance, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also great for those who want a balanced mix of history, scenery, and wine—without the stress of planning every detail.

However, if you’re seeking extensive exploration of each spot, or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for those who value organized, well-paced sightseeing that covers the highlights efficiently.

This small-group tour from La Spezia offers an excellent way to experience some of Tuscany’s most charming highlights without the hassle of self-driving or overly lengthy travel. You’ll get to walk along medieval walls, snap photos of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and savor Tuscan wines in a setting that feels both genuine and inviting.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and authentic local experiences makes it an appealing choice for anyone eager to get a taste of Tuscany’s traditions, landscapes, and flavors. It’s especially suited for cruise travelers, couples, or small groups who want to maximize their day with minimal stress and maximum charm.

While the schedule is tight, the well-organized itinerary and warm local touches ensure you’ll leave with wonderful memories—and maybe a new appreciation for Tuscany’s unpolished, authentic soul.

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, your driver will pick you up directly at La Spezia port or cruise terminal, meeting you outside the exit with a sign.

How long do we spend in Lucca?
You will have around 2 hours inside Lucca, which is enough to explore its walls, streets, and enjoy some local atmosphere.

Is there a wine tasting included?
Yes, the tour includes a stop at a local winery for wine tasting, along with a light lunch and a tour of the cellar.

Will I see Pisa’s famous leaning tower?
Yes, there is a dedicated photo stop and visit in Pisa, giving you plenty of time to see and photograph the tower and nearby sights.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, accessibility options are available, including wheelchair access.

How is the transportation arranged?
You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned van, ideal for the scenic countryside and city transfers.

Exploring Tuscany from La Spezia has never been simpler or more authentic. Whether you’re marveling at Lucca’s city walls, tasting local wines, or snapping photos of Pisa’s iconic tower, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Italy’s heartland, perfect for curious, independent-minded travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: