Shore Trip from La Spezia: Pisa,Lucca,lunch & tasting Winery

Introduction

If you’re arriving in La Spezia and looking for a well-rounded day trip, this shore excursion to Pisa, Lucca, and a Tuscan winery offers a compelling mix of iconic sights, charming towns, and authentic food and wine experiences. We’ve read plenty of reviews, and the consensus is clear: this tour balances sightseeing with a personal touch, making it ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What we particularly like about this experience is the expert guidance from a knowledgeable driver and the chance to explore two of Italy’s most enchanting towns—Pisa and Lucca—plus a memorable visit to a Tuscan winery. The inclusion of lunch and wine tasting adds significant value, making this tour feel like a mini-vacation rather than just a sightseeing jaunt.

One possible consideration is the timing: since the tour is about nine hours, you’ll want to start early and be prepared for a full day on the road. But if you’re eager to tick off key sights and indulge in authentic Tuscan flavors, this trip suits travelers who appreciate a well-organized, yet relaxed, experience. It’s especially perfect for cruise ship passengers or anyone short on time but wanting a rich taste of Italy’s cultural and culinary delights.

Key Points

• Efficient Use of Time: This tour packs in Pisa, Lucca, and a Tuscan winery all in one day, making it ideal for travelers with limited time in the region.
• Authentic Experiences: From climbing the Leaning Tower to walking the walls of Lucca and tasting local wines, every aspect offers a taste of genuine Italy.
• Comfortable Transportation: A private Mercedes vehicle ensures a smooth ride with charging ports, making long drives more comfortable.
• Expert Guidance: Your driver is not just a chauffeur but a source of valuable info, making each stop more meaningful.
• Delicious Food & Wine: The included lunch features a variety of local dishes paired with eight different wines, highlighting Tuscany’s culinary reputation.
• Flexible & Well-Organized: You can customize the visit to Pisa or Lucca in the morning, and the tour ends comfortably by 5:30 pm to match cruise schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Pisa: The Iconic Leaning Tower and More

Arriving in Pisa, you’ll visit Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the world-famous Leaning Tower, along with the Duomo and the Baptistery. These monuments are not only jaw-dropping in their architecture but also historically fascinating, representing centuries of Italian craftsmanship.

Most travelers rave about their time here, with reviews emphasizing the “perfect balance” of sightseeing and free time. You might find, as one visitor put it, “We had time to explore the area on our own,” which is crucial if you want to snap photos of the tower from different angles or browse nearby shops for souvenirs.

A key point is that tickets to the tower are not included, which can save you money but might mean waiting in line if you choose to climb. For many, just seeing the tower from the outside and soaking in the atmosphere is enough—your driver will ensure you get a good look without feeling rushed.

Lucca: Italy’s Most Charming Walled City

Next stop is Lucca, often described as one of Europe’s most beautiful walled towns. Here, the highlight is walking or biking along the 3-mile circular defensive walls, which offers stunning views of the rooftops and the city’s medieval charm.

Reviewers often mention how charming Lucca feels, with one even noting a stop at Bar Astra Cinema for coffee and a mortadella sandwich—small details that make the experience more authentic. You’ll also see Saint Martin’s Cathedral, the Torre Guinigi with its famous rooftop garden, and perhaps visit the botanical gardens if time permits.

The relaxed pace and the chance to stroll through cobbled streets filled with local shops and cafes make Lucca a highlight. It’s not just a sightseeing stop; it’s a chance to breathe in Italy’s slower, more charming side.

The Tuscany Winery: Savoring Food and Wine in the Heart of Chianti

The standout feature of this tour, according to the reviews, is the lunch and wine tasting at a Tuscan winery. You’ll tour the grounds, learn about local wine production, and indulge in a delicious array of foods—bread with olive oil, bruschetta, prosciutto, melon, gnocchi with pesto, veggie frittata, and grape focaccia.

The wine selection is equally impressive, with eight different wines sampled during the meal. Reviewers are unanimous in describing the experience as “delightful,” “exquisite,” and “like something out of a movie scene.”

The setting, with panoramic views of the Tuscan hills, creates a memorable backdrop for this culinary highlight. Considering the value, many feel that the included lunch and tastings significantly elevate the overall experience, making it feel like a true taste of Tuscany rather than just a sightseeing stop.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Your private driver will meet you at the La Spezia port, usually at the CAPITANERIA DI PORTO, right after disembarking. The tour is designed to maximize your time, with the flexibility to choose whether to visit Pisa or Lucca first. You’ll travel comfortably in a deluxe Mercedes, with charging ports and ample space, which makes the long drive more pleasant.

The tour lasts around nine hours, with the starting time flexible depending on your cruise schedule. You’ll be back at the port by no later than 5:30 pm, giving you time to relax before your ship departs.

Cost-wise, the trip includes all transportation, the winery tour, lunch, and tastings, which many reviewers find excellent value for the quality and convenience. Ticket costs for climbing the Leaning Tower are not included, so if that’s your goal, plan accordingly.

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Authenticity and Flexibility

One of the most praised aspects is the personalized service. Your driver is not just a chauffeur but a guide who shares insights and tips, making the journey educational and engaging. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Andrea brought the towns to life with stories and background information.

The itinerary is flexible enough to cater to your preferences—whether you want to spend more time in Pisa or Lucca, or perhaps focus on the wine experience. The small group size (private tour) ensures a comfortable, intimate experience, preventing the feeling of being just one of many.

Final Thoughts

This shore excursion from La Spezia balances iconic sights, authentic local experiences, and personalized service exceptionally well. The opportunity to see the Leaning Tower and walk the city walls of Lucca provides a taste of Italy’s architectural and historical treasures, while the wine and food experience delivers a true flavor of Tuscany.

It’s particularly suited for travelers looking for a full, rewarding day that combines sightseeing with culinary indulgence, all in a comfortable private setting. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply eager to enjoy Italy’s stunning landscapes, this tour offers meaningful highlights without the rush.

If you value expert guides, delicious regional cuisine, and the chance to visit two beautiful towns along with a Tuscany winery, this experience will satisfy your expectations—and then some.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, the tour is designed for cruise passengers, with flexible start times to fit your schedule and a pickup point right at the port.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a luxury vehicle, the wine tour and tasting, and a delicious lunch featuring local dishes and eight wines.

Are tickets to climb the Leaning Tower included?
No, the tower tickets are not included, so if you wish to go up, you’ll need to purchase them separately.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have enough time to explore the main sights and enjoy some shopping or sightseeing on your own. For example, in Pisa, you get outside views and some free time, while in Lucca, you can walk the walls or visit key monuments.

Is the vehicle accessible and comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a deluxe Mercedes or similar vehicle with charging ports, ensuring a comfortable ride.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour offers some flexibility, such as choosing whether to visit Pisa or Lucca first, but the core stops are fixed for a full, balanced experience.

This private tour from La Spezia offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Italy’s architectural marvels, charming towns, and culinary delights—all in one memorable day. Perfect for those who want to make the most of their limited time on the Italian coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: