Pisa, Lucca and wine experience Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia port

Exploring Pisa, Lucca, and Tuscany’s Wines from La Spezia — A Detailed Review

This private shore excursion offers a well-rounded glimpse into western Tuscany’s most charming towns—Pisa and Lucca—paired with a leisurely visit to a countryside winery. What makes this experience stand out is its carefully curated itinerary, designed to maximize your limited time while avoiding the hassle of navigating public transport or crowded tours. An excellent choice if you want to see the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Two things I especially like about this tour are the personalized flexibility—your guide can adjust timing to fit your ship’s schedule—and the easy transportation that removes the stress of figuring out local transit. Plus, the inclusion of a wine tasting in the Tuscan countryside adds a memorable flavor to your day, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

On the flip side, a possible drawback is the cost, which at around $464 per person might seem steep for some. However, considering the private nature, all-day chauffeur, and exclusive access to top sights, many find the value worthwhile—especially for those who prefer a comfortable, stress-free experience. Keep in mind that wine tasting and entrance tickets are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge fully.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private, flexible itinerary tailored to your cruise schedule
• All-inclusive transport from La Spezia simplifies the day
• Exclusive visits to Pisa’s Leaning Tower and Lucca’s historic streets
• Wine and olive oil tasting in the Tuscan countryside enhances the experience
• Expert driver/tour leader makes navigation and storytelling easy
• Well-rated with consistent glowing reviews praising the driver and the charm of Lucca

Entering Pisa: The Leaning Tower and Miracle Square

The tour begins with your pickup just outside La Spezia’s cruise terminal—meaning no wandering through confusing streets or waiting for public transit. After a roughly one-hour drive, you’ll arrive in Pisa, a city whose fame is cemented by its iconic Leaning Tower. The tour suggests starting around 9 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the squares and monuments without feeling rushed.

Standing beside the Leaning Tower of Pisa, I love the way the structure’s tilt instantly sparks curiosity. Although entrance tickets aren’t included, you can admire the Cathedral, Baptistery, and the Square of Miracles from outside. For many visitors, the photo opportunities alone are worth the visit. The guide will give a quick historical context, turning a selfie spot into an intriguing story about medieval engineering.

Travelers often appreciate the flexibility here—some might want more time to explore the interior, while others prefer a quick photo stop. The tour’s adaptable schedule is helpful for syncing with your cruise ship’s timetable, ensuring you return on time without stress.

Lucca: A Hidden Gem Within Ancient Walls

From Pisa, a scenic 20-minute drive takes you to Lucca, a city that feels like an undiscovered treasure. Here, the real charm lies in wandering its narrow streets, historic towers, and lively squares. The Church of San Michele in Foro and the Torre delle Ore are highlights you won’t want to miss, each offering a glimpse into Lucca’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

One of the tour’s highlights is strolling along Via Flungo, a quaint shopping street filled with local boutiques and cafes—a perfect place to soak in everyday Tuscan life. The Anfiteatro Square rounds out the visit, where you can sit outside, sip an espresso, and watch the world go by.

Many reviewers mention how Lucca feels like a secret escape—one reviewer called it an “incredible hidden gem” that shouldn’t be missed. The guide’s commentary makes the city’s history come alive, and the manageable walking tour ensures you see the best without overexerting yourself.

The Countryside Winery: A Taste of Tuscany

After the historic sightseeing, you’ll head into the Tuscan countryside for a winery tour. This part of the experience offers a refreshing change of pace—learning about local grape varieties, olive oil, and wine production—and tasting some of the region’s finest products.

The visit to the wine cellar and vineyards is led by knowledgeable staff, who explain the significance of local grapes and share insights into Tuscan wine traditions. Although the tour does not include wine tasting, many travelers report the charming setting and the delicious oils as a highlight of the day.

The two-and-a-half-hour segment in the countryside is a relaxed, informative experience that deepens your appreciation for Tuscany’s culinary heritage. It’s a chance to see the land that produces the wine and olive oil you’ve likely tasted in restaurants or markets.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Value

Transportation is a key strength of this tour. Using an air-conditioned minivan, the driver handles all the navigation, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the scenery. Pickup is arranged directly at La Spezia’s cruise terminal—saving you the hassle of public transit or taxis.

The eight-hour duration strikes a good balance, allowing ample time at each stop without overloading your day. The cost of approximately $464 per person covers private transport, driver, and guided visits—making it a convenient, all-in-one package for a busy cruise day. Keep in mind that lunch, wine, and entrance fees are not included, so you might want to budget extra for meals or tastings.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic experiences over rushing through sites with a large group. The private nature means your schedule can adapt, and you’ll get personalized insights from your driver-guide.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re visiting La Spezia and want to see Pisa and Lucca efficiently, this private tour is a solid choice. It’s ideal for cruise passengers who prefer a stress-free day with personalized attention. It also suits those interested in combining sightseeing with a culinary touch, like sampling Tuscan wines and oils.

Travelers who appreciate authentic towns rather than touristy crowds will enjoy Lucca’s quiet charm, and those who like hassle-free transport will find the minivan and pickup arrangements extremely convenient. It’s a great option for families, couples, or small groups wanting a tailored experience.

The Sum Up: An Authentic Slice of Tuscany in a Day

This private shore excursion offers a balanced blend of history, charming towns, and Tuscan flavors without the chaos of large tours or the stress of planning logistics. The personalized schedule and door-to-door transport make it ideal for travelers who want to maximize their limited time in port.

You’ll love the stunning views at each stop—whether it’s the iconic Leaning Tower, the peaceful streets of Lucca, or the rolling vineyards—and the delicious wine and olive oil tasting adds a memorable local touch. The tour’s high ratings and enthusiastic reviews reflect its well-organized, engaging approach and the exceptional driver, Masimo, who brings the cities’ stories to life.

While the price may seem high, it’s justified by the convenience, exclusivity, and quality of the experience. If you’re seeking a relaxed, personalized way to explore Tuscany’s highlights from La Spezia, this tour is a fantastic choice.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 8:30-9 am, depending on your ship’s schedule, and includes transportation, guided visits, and a winery stop.

Where do I meet the guide?
Your driver will be waiting just outside the La Spezia cruise terminal, holding a sign with your name, making it easy to find your group.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, the Leaning Tower, cathedral, and winery tours do not include entrance fees or tastings. You should budget extra if you plan to enter or taste.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, which makes getting between sites smooth and relaxing, especially after walking around towns.

Can the schedule be adjusted?
Yes, the tour is private and can be tailored to your ship’s timetable or specific interests, including more or less time at certain stops.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by adults. The relaxed pace and scenic stops make it family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. If you want to buy local products or taste wine, consider bringing some cash or cards.

In essence, this private shore excursion offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience some of Tuscany’s most beloved towns and flavors—all with the comfort of private transport and a flexible schedule. It’s perfect for those who want to see the highlights without hassle, and to enjoy genuine local experiences in a single day.