Pisa, Lucca, and Lunch at a Tuscan Winery from La Spezia

Exploring Tuscany’s Charm: Pisa, Lucca, and a Family-Run Winery Tour from La Spezia

If you’re visiting La Spezia and eager to experience some of Tuscany’s most captivating sights without spending your day in a car, this tour offers a balanced mix of iconic landmarks and authentic local flavor. It’s a thoughtfully designed day trip that hits the highlights—think the famous Leaning Tower, a stroll through the enchanting walls of Lucca, and a hearty, homemade lunch paired with local wines at a small family winery.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the convenience of private, air-conditioned transport that keeps the day smooth and stress-free. And second, the insider access to a family-run winery, offering genuine insight into Tuscan wine and food traditions. A possible consideration is the relatively short time allocated at each major stop—if you’re craving deep exploration or time to wander extensively, this might feel a bit rushed. But for those wanting a well-paced, authentic taste of Tuscany with a touch of luxury, it’s a solid choice.

This experience is best suited for families and active adults who appreciate cultural sights, scenic drives, and good food, all in a manageable day. No long bus rides or overwhelming crowds—just a curated slice of Tuscany’s best.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: Private, air-conditioned transport from La Spezia makes for an effortless day.
• Authentic Experience: Visit a genuine family-run winery with personalized tastings and homemade lunch.
• Cultural Highlights: See the Leaning Tower of Pisa and explore the charming walls and streets of Lucca.
• Time-Management: Short stops mean a taste of each location without long waits or fatigue.
• Authentic Flavors: Enjoy local cured meats, cheeses, and seasonal dishes paired with regional wines.
• Well-Reviewed: Visitors praise the friendly guides, stunning views, and quality wine offerings.

A Comprehensive Breakdown of the Tour

Meeting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at La Spezia Cruise Terminal, conveniently located to serve as a gateway for travelers arriving by ship or train. The group is transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, ideal for navigating the scenic Tuscan countryside. A key perk is that pickup is offered, removing the hassle of finding your way around. The entire journey is private, meaning you won’t be sharing the vehicle with strangers, and that adds to the relaxed vibe of the day.

First Stop: Pisa’s Campo dei Miracoli

About an hour’s drive from La Spezia, your driver will drop you off directly at the Campo dei Miracoli, saving you the hassle of parking and walking from distant bus stops. You’ll get 30 minutes to snap photos of the Leaning Tower, cathedral, baptistery, and monumental cemetery. These sites are operationally free to admire from the outside, but if you want to go inside or climb the tower, you’ll need to coordinate timing with the guide, as entrance tickets are not included in the price.

Travelers who have visited report that even a brief stop here is worthwhile. You’ll see the iconic tilt of the tower that draws millions each year. The quick visit leaves plenty of time for the next parts of the day, making this a perfect photo-op without feeling rushed.

Second Stop: Lucca’s Enchanting Walls and Streets

A scenic 25-minute drive brings you into the walled city of Lucca, a treasure of Tuscan charm. Here, you’ll spend three hours exploring. The city’s massive, well-preserved fortification walls are a highlight—they’ve been transformed into a peaceful pedestrian path perfect for walking, biking, or just soaking in the views. You’ll love the way the trees line the walls, creating a shady corridor ideal for a leisurely stroll or cycling.

Within Lucca, you’ll find Piazza dell’Amphiteatro, built on a Roman stadium, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere and local cafes. The Palazzo Pfanner, with its formal garden, offers a taste of local aristocratic history. Reviewers mention how beautiful and elegant Lucca is, rivaling Florence in beauty but with fewer crowds.

If you’re feeling active, renting bikes to circle the city walls is an option. Alternatively, simply wandering the cobblestone streets and sitting in the shade of the big trees makes for a relaxing afternoon.

Third Stop: Lunch and Wine Tasting at Azienda Agricola Enzo Carmignani

After your city exploration, the tour continues with a 25-minute drive to a small, family-run winery in the Montecarlo di Lucca wine region. Here, you’re treated to a homemade, hearty lunch and a generous wine tasting featuring 6-8 local varieties.

The meal includes local cured meats, cheeses, toasted Tuscan bread with seasonal toppings, a pasta or rice dish made with fresh ingredients, and seasonal fruit for dessert. The focus on homemade, local fare offers a genuine taste of Tuscan cuisine. The wine pairings are also highly praised—reviewers emphasize how knowledgeable guides help you understand each variety’s story and production.

It’s important to note that lunch is not included in the base price; you’ll pay directly at the winery, which typically costs around 55 Euro per adult. For families with children, the winery welcomes minors, and lunch options are available at lower prices for kids.

Final Reflections and Authenticity

This tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing, culture, and culinary delights. The reviews underscore the guides’ friendliness and knowledge—adding a personal touch that elevates the experience. One reviewer called it “the best for a true Tuscan experience,” citing the welcoming winery and charming towns.

The timing of about 8-9 hours is designed to keep the day lively but manageable, and the small group size ensures a more intimate, flexible experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for families who want a manageable day of sightseeing without long bus rides or overly structured schedules. It’s also perfect for active adults who appreciate scenic walks, cultural landmarks, and good food and wine without the fatigue of full-day excursions. If you want a snapshot of Tuscany’s beauty, history, and flavors, this tour offers a well-balanced, authentic taste.

In The Sum Up

This La Spezia-based tour delivers a compelling combination of iconic sights and authentic Tuscan hospitality. You’ll love the convenience of private transport, the chance to see Pisa’s Leaning Tower without long waits, and the three hours exploring the charming walls and streets of Lucca. The highlight for many is the visit to a family-run winery, where you’ll enjoy a hearty, homemade lunch and regional wines in a relaxed setting that feels genuinely local.

While the brief stops mean you won’t get deep into any one site, the overall experience strikes a nice balance for those who want a taste rather than an in-depth dive. It’s a flexible, friendly, and highly-rated way to enjoy a slice of Tuscany’s best, making it worth considering if you’re after convenience, quality, and authenticity in a day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meeting point for this tour?
The tour begins at La Spezia Cruise Terminal, making it easy for cruise passengers and travelers arriving by train or bus.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive from La Spezia to Pisa takes about an hour. The drive between Pisa and Lucca is approximately 25 minutes. The trip to the winery is also about 25 minutes from Lucca.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, offering a relaxed way to travel between sites.

Can I visit Pisa’s interior monuments?
The tour includes a 30-minute exterior view of Pisa’s landmarks. If you wish to enter any buildings or climb the Leaning Tower, you need to coordinate with the guide and purchase tickets separately.

What about lunch?
Lunch at the winery is not included in the tour price. You’ll pay directly at the winery, with typical costs around 55 Euro per adult for a hearty meal and wine tasting.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children are welcome, and the winery is happy to accommodate minors. The tour is family-friendly.

How much time is spent at each site?
You get about 30 minutes in Pisa, three hours in Lucca, and four hours at the winery including lunch and tasting.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, offering privacy and flexibility.

What do reviews say about the experience?
Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides, scenic views, and especially the wine tasting. One called it “the best tour for a true Tuscan experience.”

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility for travel plans.

In all, this tour offers a balanced, enjoyable way to take in some of Tuscany’s most famous sights and flavors without the hassle of full-day commitments or large groups. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of Italy’s heartland with the comfort of private transport and authentic experiences.