Pisa and Lucca from the Cruise Port of La Spezia

If you’re cruising into La Spezia and looking to squeeze in some of Tuscany’s most charming cities, a private tour to Pisa and Lucca might just be the way to go. This option promises a more personalized experience compared to the typical bus excursions, with the added benefit of being able to skip the crowded group tours and explore at your own pace. From what we’ve gathered, it’s well-suited for travelers who want a mix of guided highlights and independent wandering.

One thing we love about this tour is the flexibility it offers—your driver drops you off inside the historic centers, giving you more freedom to explore on your own. Plus, the knowledgeable drivers and guides tend to make the experience richer by sharing interesting tidbits along the way. Another solid point: the comfortable private transportation with WiFi makes the long day a lot more enjoyable.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is that there’s no included guided tour inside Pisa or Lucca, so if you prefer detailed commentary throughout, this might not fully satisfy. Also, the cost per group is around $905, which might seem high if you’re traveling solo or in a small group, but it could be a good value for up to 8 people sharing the experience.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comfortable, stress-free way to see two iconic Tuscan cities with the flexibility to explore independently. Lovers of scenic drives, cultural sights, and ease will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Customizable experience with private transportation and flexible itinerary.
• Knowledgeable drivers who provide insights and local tips.
• Comfortable ride with free WiFi and room for up to 8 travelers.
• Time-efficient way to see Pisa and Lucca in a day without feeling rushed.
• No guided inside visits included, so self-guided exploration is on you.
• Good value for groups sharing the cost, especially for those who value privacy and flexibility.

What to Expect from the Tour

If you’re considering this experience, here’s a detailed look at what it involves and what you’ll get from it. We’ll walk through the itinerary, highlighting what makes each stop special and how the overall day shapes up.

Starting from La Spezia

Your day begins at the cruise terminal, where your driver will meet you in a private vehicle. The advantage here is immediate comfort—you won’t need to worry about navigating public transport or crowded buses. Instead, your driver, who speaks English and knows the area well, will be available for questions and to ensure smooth transitions between sites.

Pisa: A glimpse of the iconic Leaning Tower

Once in Pisa, the driver will take you on a brief car tour to orient you to the city. You’ll pass the Arno River, which beautifully divides Pisa and offers some lovely views. The first major stop is Piazza dei Cavalieri, once a center of civic power and now home to the Scuola Normale Superiore, a prestigious university. This square is a quieter, less crowded spot but historically significant and visually striking.

Next, you’ll visit the famous Piazza dei Miracoli, home to Pisa’s most recognizable sight—the Leaning Tower. The tour includes an outside view, and there’s the option to go inside the Tower or the Cathedral if you get tickets (not included in the price). Many travelers appreciate the chance to take photos without feeling rushed, and some reviews mention the value of having a driver who can give quick insights en route.

One of the reviews notes, “This was not a tour. It was a very expensive taxi ride,” but that’s an important reminder: this particular experience doesn’t include inside guided visits or detailed commentary unless you opt for additional tickets. Still, the convenience of being dropped off close to the main attractions gives you a good amount of flexibility.

Transition to Lucca

After Pisa, you’ll continue to Lucca, a city that’s a favorite for many travelers because of its intact medieval walls and relaxed atmosphere. Your driver drops you inside the ancient city walls, which are a standout feature. You’ll get a map, so you can explore independently—think strolling through cobblestone streets, soaking in local cafes, or visiting charming squares.

The ride from Pisa to Lucca offers scenic views of Tuscany’s rolling hills, making it a pleasurable part of the day. One review highlights how “Simone was an excellent guide, friendly, and very knowledgeable,” emphasizing the value of having a driver who’s also a local guide.

Lucca: Exploring at your own pace

With a couple of hours in Lucca, you can take your time wandering inside the walls, visiting landmarks, or enjoying a leisurely lunch. The self-guided aspect allows you to tailor your visit—whether that’s sightseeing, shopping, or just relaxing with a gelato. The review from Julie mentions that “Simon made this trip wonderful,” noting how accommodating and friendly the driver-guide was, especially for travelers with special needs like a wheelchair.

End of the Day

The tour concludes with a return trip to La Spezia, where your driver will drop you off at the starting point. Since this is a private tour, you’ll have the convenience of a flexible schedule, with no need to rush or stick to a large group’s timetable.

The Practical Details

Transportation and Comfort

The vehicle is described as a clean, comfortable van equipped with WiFi. This means you can stay connected, plan your next steps, or simply enjoy the views as you travel between sites. The private nature of the ride ensures a more relaxed experience, especially compared to crowded group tours.

Cost and Value

At roughly $905.65 per group (up to 8 people), the cost breaks down to a little over $110 per person if you’re traveling with a full group, which can be quite reasonable when split among friends or family. This price includes private transportation, meet and greet, and a driver who provides insights and local tips.

Duration and Timing

The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, making it a full day outing but not overly exhausting. The schedule is flexible enough for you to spend ample time at each stop without feeling rushed, especially since there’s no guided inside visit included, allowing you to set your own pace.

What the Reviews Say

Positive feedback highlights the professionalism and friendliness of drivers like Matteo and Simone, with travelers appreciating the safe driving, comfort, and local knowledge. One review mentions, “Our driver was from Pisa, so he knew the best places to go,” which adds to the overall experience of discovering hidden gems or avoiding tourist traps.

On the flip side, one traveler called the experience a “rip-off,” complaining it was more like a taxi ride than a tour, emphasizing the importance of understanding what’s included before booking. However, most reviews reflect satisfaction, especially when travelers value the freedom and comfort of a private trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want flexibility and comfort over guided commentary or extensive inside visits. It’s perfect for those who prefer to explore independently but still appreciate having a knowledgeable driver to navigate and provide local insights. Families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a relaxed, personalized day out will find this setup particularly appealing.

If you’re looking for a quick, hassle-free way to see Pisa’s famous sights and enjoy Lucca’s charming streets without the constraints of a large tour bus, this could be a great fit.

The Sum Up

This private Pisa and Lucca tour from La Spezia offers a balanced mix of guided convenience and self-guided freedom. You’ll benefit from the comfort of a private vehicle, the expertise of drivers who know the area, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The stops at Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli and Lucca’s medieval walls give you iconic sights and authentic local atmosphere in about a full day, making it a practical choice for travelers who want both structure and independence.

Though it’s not a guided tour with inside visits included, the ability to explore on your own after a brief orientation makes this a good value for groups who enjoy casual sightseeing. The reviews suggest that, when booked with the right expectations, it’s a reliable and enjoyable way to experience some of Tuscany’s most delightful towns.

Whether you’re a first-timer or just looking to maximize your time without the stress of logistics, this private tour is worth considering. Just be sure to understand what’s included and plan for some independent wandering to get the most out of your day.

FAQ

Is this tour private for my group?
Yes, this is a private experience for your group only, with no other travelers joining.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation, WiFi on board, an English-speaking driver, and meet & greet service.

Are inside visits to Pisa’s Tower or Cathedral included?
No, entrance tickets are not included. You can choose to visit inside if you purchase tickets separately.

How much time do we have at each stop?
You’ll spend about 15 minutes at Piazza dei Cavalieri, an hour at Piazza dei Miracoli, and approximately 2 hours in Lucca.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the main stops are fixed, you have flexibility to explore independently once dropped off.

Is this suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
One review mentions accommodating a wheelchair, so it might be suitable—check directly with the provider for specific needs.

How long in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 44 days ahead, but it’s best to secure your date early, especially in peak season.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible in case your plans change.

Is lunch included?
No, meals are not included; you’ll need to plan for lunch on your own during the free time in Lucca.

This tour is a practical, comfortable way to see Pisa and Lucca for those who appreciate flexibility and a touch of local insight. It’s a good choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free day with the freedom to explore on their own terms.