Pisa and Lucca Shore Excursion from La Spezia Port

Exploring Tuscany on a cruise can be a challenge — ports are often crowded, and rushing from site to site leaves little room for genuine enjoyment. This Pisa and Lucca shore excursion from La Spezia promises a more relaxed, personalized experience. It’s a private tour designed for those who want to see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. With a reputation for excellent guides, comfortable transport, and well-paced itineraries, it’s a strong choice for travelers craving authentic sights and local touches.

What I really like about this tour is the way it balances structured sightseeing with enough flexibility to enjoy each site at your own pace. First, you’ll visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa and its surrounding piazza, then take your time exploring Pisa’s cathedral and Baptistery from outside — admission isn’t included, which keeps the experience more relaxed. Later, you’ll move to Lucca, a city often overlooked but packed with charm, where you can walk the medieval walls and climb the Torre Guinigi for a surprising view of lush trees growing atop a tower. The private nature of the tour means you’re not just another group — your driver and guide (even if they can’t enter every site) help bring each place to life with local insights.

Two things stand out in reviews that really appeal: timing and personal service. Travelers consistently mention how punctual and personable the driver was, often sharing how they appreciated recommendations for restaurants or hidden spots. A recurring compliment is the vehicle’s cleanliness and comfort, which makes a difference after a busy morning on foot. On the downside, since guides aren’t licensed to enter museums or churches, you’ll get commentary from your driver only from inside the vehicle. For some, that’s a minor limitation; for others, it’s a consideration if you’re eager for detailed historical insights inside sites.

This tour strikes a fine balance between value and authenticity. It’s well-suited for those who want to avoid cruise crowds, see top sights efficiently, and enjoy local flavor — perhaps with a glass of wine at the end, thanks to the optional winery stop. If you’re comfortable with a private driver providing commentary and are looking for a relaxed yet comprehensive day in Tuscany, this experience offers real value.

Key Points / Takeaways

Personalized experience: As a private tour, it offers tailored sightseeing with a focus on your group’s pace and interests.
Expert driver, not licensed guide: Drivers are friendly and knowledgeable but cannot enter sites; expect commentary from the vehicle.
Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on some, plus port pickup and drop-off, make logistics simple.
Authentic stops: Highlights include Piazza dei Cavalieri, Piazza dei Miracoli, and Lucca’s medieval walls and Torre Guinigi — sites that deliver timeless charm.
Flexible itinerary: Optional visits like wine tasting at a local winery add a touch of Tuscany’s culinary scene.
Good value for a full day: Price might seem high, but with exclusive transport, personalized service, and well-chosen stops, many find it worthwhile.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Piazza dei Cavalieri:
Your journey starts here, a prestigious square featuring the Scuola Normale di Pisa — a grand Renaissance building. It’s a brief stop, but worth taking in the architecture and imagining scholars of centuries past. No entrance fee here, so it’s really just a chance to see the city’s intellectual heart from the outside.

Piazza dei Miracoli:
This is the star of Pisa — home to the Leaning Tower, Baptistery, and Duomo. Expect about 45 minutes here. You’ll get a good look at the tower’s famous tilt, and your driver can point out interesting facts or tips for snapping the perfect photo. Admission isn’t included, so you’ll likely admire these masterpieces from the outside, which still leaves plenty of awe.

Piazza Napoleone:
A quieter square, giving a sense of the city’s layout. Just a 10-minute stop to stretch your legs and appreciate the local ambiance.

Lucca’s Duomo Di San Martino:
This lovely cathedral in the heart of Lucca offers a peaceful vibe. You’ll spend about 20 minutes here, soaking in its architecture without the hassle of long lines or crowds.

Torre Guinigi:
A real highlight — the only tower in the world topped with a garden of 4 trees. Expect about 30 minutes, enough time to climb up and enjoy the panoramic views of Lucca’s rooftops and surrounding countryside.

Piazza Anfiteatro:
A charming, oval-shaped square built on the ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheater, perfect for wandering and soaking in the local scene. About 15 minutes here.

Via Fillungo:
A lively shopping street where you can browse boutique shops or pick up unique souvenirs. 20 minutes gives you a chance to browse or just enjoy people-watching.

Centro Storico Montecarlo (Optional Winery Visit):
If time permits, you may visit a local winery for a quick tasting. About an hour here—an enjoyable way to taste authentic Tuscan wines and learn about the region’s viticulture. Not included in the price, but worth considering if you love wine.

Value and Practicalities: What the Price Buys You

At $1,156.44 for up to 8 people, this works out to roughly $145 each — a fair price considering it includes private transport, port pickup, and a full day of sightseeing. The vehicle’s comfort and the driver’s local tips add to the value, especially for travelers who prefer not to navigate public transport or group tours. With most bookings made 200 days in advance, it’s clear many find this a reliable, well-organized option.

A key advantage is the flexibility — your driver Maurizio and others in his team are praised for punctuality and helpfulness, often offering recommendations for restaurants and stops beyond the itinerary. However, keep in mind that the driver is not a licensed guide, so if you’re craving inside museum commentary, you might need to supplement with your own guide or guidebook.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers craving a personalized, relaxed day in Tuscany. It’s especially suited for small groups, families, or couples who appreciate comfortable private transport and want to see the highlights without the hassle of large tours. If you’re interested in wine tasting or exploring historic towns at your own pace, this tour offers that flexibility. It’s also a good choice if you prefer a stress-free day, with port pickup and drop-off included.

Those who value local insights and good recommendations from their driver will find this tour particularly enjoyable, as many reviews point out how personable and helpful Maurizio and his team are.

The Sum Up

This Pisa and Lucca shore excursion offers a well-balanced mix of iconic sights and authentic local charm. The private format ensures you avoid the chaos of large groups, while the carefully planned stops give a taste of Tuscany’s beauty and history without feeling rushed. Its comfort, flexibility, and good reviews make it a solid choice for travelers seeking a meaningful, hassle-free day on land.

While it may not satisfy those craving deep museum tours or inside guides, it excels in providing a relaxed, friendly way to experience Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower and the medieval wonder of Lucca. If you love tasting a bit of Tuscany’s scenery, architecture, and maybe a glass of local wine, this tour will suit you well.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the pace is comfortable. Keep in mind, some climbing at Torre Guinigi might be a bit challenging for very young children or mobility-impaired travelers.

What’s included in the price?
Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, port pickup and drop-off, and WiFi on some vehicles. Admission to sites is generally not included, so be prepared for some out-of-pocket costs if you wish to enter certain attractions.

Can I customize the stops or add activities?
The tour includes an optional wine tasting at a winery, and some reviews mention tailored recommendations. While the itinerary is fixed, the private nature allows some flexibility if arranged in advance.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:00am from La Spezia’s cruise terminal. This gives ample time to see all highlights at a relaxed pace.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal in Lucca or at a local restaurant.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Refunds are processed if canceled within that window.

This private tour from La Spezia offers a genuine, manageable way to experience Tuscany’s highlights — tailored, comfortable, and full of local flavor. It’s a strong pick for those who want a memorable day without the stress of large groups or rushed schedules.