La Spezia isn’t just a gateway to the stunning Cinque Terre; it’s also an excellent place to indulge in wine experiences that showcase Liguria’s unique flavors. Whether you prefer a scenic boat cruise with wine, a relaxed tasting in a cellar, or a full-day adventure exploring nearby Tuscan towns, La Spezia offers something for every wine enthusiast. One of our favorite options is the Sunset in Portovenere with wine, music & Focaccia, which combines the beauty of sailing with an authentic taste of local products — ideal for those who enjoy a laid-back, picturesque evening.
What makes La Spezia especially appealing for wine tours is its proximity to Liguria’s vineyards and the opportunity to combine wine with other experiences. In particular, the 4 Wines Degustation offers an intimate look at regional wines in a cellar setting, perfect for those seeking a deeper understanding of Ligurian wine-making. For travelers aiming to explore beyond La Spezia, full-day trips to Pisa and Lucca, which include private wine tastings, provide an enriching way to experience Tuscany’s famed vineyards as well (see the private shore excursion).
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best wine tours in La Spezia, each with its own distinct appeal — from sunset sails to comprehensive Tuscany excursions. Whether you’re after a quick tasting or a full day of wine, history, and scenery, this guide will help you find your perfect match.
1. La Spezia: Sunset in Portovenere with wine, music & Focaccia
At number 1, this sunset sailing experience stands out for its combination of beautiful sea views, local food, and wine. Over 3 hours, you’ll sail around the protected marine area of Portovenere, taking in the sunset and enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to swim in the Mediterranean, sample Focaccia with pesto, and listen to music while surrounded by laughter. The guide shares insights into the Gulf of Poets’ history, giving this cruise a sense of place that feels both personal and authentic.
Guests love the relaxed pace, with reviews highlighting the friendly atmosphere and the chance to snorkel or just soak in the sunset. The itinerary includes visits to Palmaria Island, Tino Island, and Grotta dei Colombi, plus a sunset food tasting paired with good local wine. Since it’s a small group, you’ll get personalized attention, making it ideal for couples or small groups seeking a memorable evening on the water.
Bottom line: This tour offers an intimate, scenic, and delicious way to experience Liguria’s coastal beauty, perfect for romantics or anyone wanting a relaxed, social evening.
2. La Spezia: 4 Wines Degustation
Number 2 on our list is the 4 Wines Degustation, a cozy cellar experience that’s perfect if you want to learn about Ligurian wines without a lot of fuss. For around $44.41 per person, you’ll taste four different wines crafted by the Arrigoni family, each telling a story of the land. The guide is enthusiastic and well-informed, sharing insights into the family’s philosophy and the region’s grape varieties.
What makes this tour special is its personalized approach. The wines are aromatic, with a mix of sweet and dry flavors, and the tasting is complemented by local delicacies, making it a tasty deep dive into Liguria’s terroir. Several reviews praise the natural, informal atmosphere and the guide’s ability to explain the wine-making process in a way that’s accessible. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed tasting session without the commitment of a full-day tour.
Bottom line: The 4 Wines Degustation offers genuine insight into regional wines and a chance to discover Liguria’s flavors in an intimate setting—ideal for wine newbies or those wanting a quick, educational experience.
3. Pisa, Lucca and wine experience Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia port
At number 3, this private day trip blends sightseeing with regional wine tasting. It’s designed for cruise travelers who want to maximize their time ashore. Starting with Pisa’s famous Leaning Tower and the Miracle’s square, you’ll then move to Lucca, a city with well-preserved medieval walls and charming streets. After exploring, you’ll visit a local winery for a cellar tour and tastings of wines and extra-virgin olive oil.
The private nature of this tour means you get a flexible schedule and personalized attention. The winery visit is a highlight, offering a taste of Tuscany’s best in a relaxed farm setting. The reviews emphasize how efficiently the tour manages time while still providing meaningful experiences in both cities. It’s ideal for those who want a full but manageable day, with the added bonus of discovering Tuscany’s wine-making traditions.
Bottom line: If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive experience that combines city sightseeing with wine tasting, this private excursion hits the mark.
4. La Spezia: 4 Wines GOLD Degustation
Position four features the Gold Degustation, a more exclusive tasting of Liguria’s best wines, including the legendary Sciacchetrà. For $62.63 per person, it offers a deeper dive into local wine-making, focusing on the top-tier wines that tell the story of Liguria’s terroir. The hosts are praised for their hospitality and knowledge, providing a more intimate experience compared to larger tasting rooms.
Guests have described the experience as “first class,” with excellent food and a personal touch. This is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to explore Liguria’s finest wines and learn about the family philosophy behind the production. The tour is relatively short but offers a high-quality taste of Ligurian wine culture, making it good value for those seeking a more refined experience.
Bottom line: The Gold Degustation is best suited for connoisseurs or those wanting a premium, in-depth wine tasting in a friendly, high-quality setting.
5. Pisa, Lucca, and Lunch at a Tuscan Winery from La Spezia
Number 5 presents a full-day Pisa and Lucca trip with wine and lunch, ideal for travelers who want a combination of city sightseeing, wine, and regional cuisine. Starting with Pisa’s Leaning Tower, then moving to Lucca for a walk along its medieval walls, the highlight is the lunch and wine tasting at a family-run winery in Montecarlo di Lucca.
The lunch is homemade, and the wine tasting includes several varieties, giving you a real taste of Tuscany’s wine culture in a farm setting. Guests have appreciated the balance of sightseeing and culinary indulgence, with reviews noting the “great tour guide” and “lovely family winery.” It’s best suited for those with a day to spare and an interest in combining cultural sites with authentic regional cuisine.
Bottom line: For a comprehensive day that balances sightseeing with flavorful wine and food, this tour delivers an immersive Tuscan experience.
6. Pisa & Lucca Private Tour with wine-tasting from La Spezia Port
This private tour offers a customizable full-day experience, focused on exploring Pisa and Lucca with the added benefit of wine tasting at a local farm. With a dedicated guide, you’ll visit Pisa’s Leaning Tower and Lucca’s well-preserved city walls, then travel into Tuscan countryside for a wine experience that includes a farm visit and tastings of fine wines and olive oil.
Guests rave about the ease of the private arrangement, which allows you to tailor the day to your interests. The farm visit is a key highlight, providing insight into wine and olive oil production. It’s perfect for those who want flexibility, a private setting, and a blend of sightseeing and tasting.
Bottom line: A flexible, private option ideal for travelers who prefer a bespoke experience with regional cuisine and scenic drives.
7. Pisa and Lucca with Wine Tasting and Lunch from La Spezia
This full-day tour combines Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower, Lucca’s medieval charm, and a memorable lunch with wine tasting in the Tuscan countryside. The itinerary includes a relaxed visit to Pisa’s major sites, followed by a scenic drive to Lucca for a walk along its Renaissance walls. The highlight is the farm lunch, hosting local wines and farm-to-table dishes.
Reviews mention the “amazing wine and olive oil,” emphasizing the authentic farm experience. It’s a good fit for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, regional food, and wine in one day. The pace is manageable, and the farm visit adds a genuine touch.
Bottom line: For those seeking a comprehensive, food-and-wine-focused day without sacrificing cultural sights, this tour offers rich experiences in a relaxed setting.
8. Lievàntu Wine Experience
Number 8, the Lievàntu Wine Experience, is a 2-hour journey through Levanto’s terraced hills, olive groves, and vineyards. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a short, scenic tasting in a more relaxed, rural setting. The tour features views of the valley and the bay of Levanto, along with tastings of regional wines and olive oils.
While it’s not as extensive as some other options, it offers an authentic glimpse into Liguria’s countryside and wine production. The reviews note the friendly hosts and the beautiful scenery, making it suitable for those with limited time or looking for a peaceful, local experience. It’s best for travelers who want a taste of the countryside without the full-day commitment.
Bottom line: This experience is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, scenic wine tasting close to La Spezia, with a focus on local flavors and landscape.
9. Cinque Terre Private Wine And Views Tour
Rounding out the list is the Cinque Terre Private Wine and Views Tour, which combines exclusive scenic viewpoints, private winery visits, and village charming walkabouts. Over 3 to 4 hours, your driver and hostess guide you along quiet roads to panoramic vistas of the villages, with a special stop at a renowned local winery. You’ll also explore Corniglia by foot, soaking in its authentic charm.
This tour is tailored for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a luxurious, personalized experience. The highlight is the private visit to a winery with tastings, plus the spectacular viewpoints of Riomaggiore, Manarola, and Corniglia. Reviews note road curviness, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with winding roads.
Bottom line: Perfect for lovers of scenic views, private tastings, and a quiet, exclusive look at Cinque Terre’s landscape and wine scene.
How to Choose Your Perfect La Spezia Wine Tour
Picking the right wine tour depends on your interests, time, and budget. If you’re after a magical sunset sail with wine and music, the Sunset in Portovenere is hard to beat. For those wanting a quick, authentic tasting without leaving La Spezia, the 4 Wines Degustation offers a focused, informative experience.
Travelers with a full day and a love for history and scenery should consider the Pisa, Lucca, and wine experience, which combines sightseeing with regional wines. Meanwhile, for those seeking a more exclusive, private adventure, options like the Pisa & Lucca Private Tour or the Cinque Terre private tour offer flexibility and personalized attention.
Consider your budget, interest in sightseeing vs. tasting, and comfort with driving scenic roads when choosing. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours and private options, to ensure availability and the best experience.
Final Thoughts
La Spezia offers a surprisingly diverse range of wine experiences that appeal to different types of travelers. From sunset sailing cruises to immersive cellar tastings and full-day excursions with lunch, there’s something for all. For a romantic evening, the Sunset in Portovenere is a standout. For those wanting a deeper dive into Ligurian wines, the Gold Degustation provides a high-end tasting experience.
If your time in La Spezia is limited, the private shore excursions help you see both the city and nearby Tuscan towns efficiently, with excellent wine tastings woven into the day. For scenic lovers and those craving quiet, the private Cinque Terre tour and the Levanto experience are perfect choices.
Whatever you select, booking early will help ensure you get the best spots. La Spezia’s wine tours are a wonderful way to deepen your appreciation of Italy’s regions — and perhaps discover your new favorite bottle.
