La Spezia Shore Excursion to Lucca and Leaning Tower of Pisa

La Spezia Shore Excursion to Lucca and the Leaning Tower of Pisa: An Honest Look

If you’re docking in La Spezia and itching to see a bit more of Italy’s iconic sights, this shore excursion to Lucca and Pisa might seem appealing on paper. It promises a full day of sightseeing with an air-conditioned bus, a knowledgeable escort, and the chance to tick off two major Italian destinations in one go.

What we like about this tour is its convenient itinerary—it’s designed to maximize your time, especially with the inclusion of free time to explore on your own. Plus, the escort’s expertise promises a smoother experience, which can be a real relief when navigating unfamiliar cities. The price point, roughly $58.67 per person, is fairly accessible for such an organized day trip.

However, it’s worth mentioning that some travelers have found last-minute changes and the group size can get a bit hectic. The reviews suggest that timing and organization might not be perfect every time, and if you’re hoping for a relaxed, unhurried experience, this might not fully deliver. Still, for those looking to see Lucca’s medieval charm and get a glimpse of the Leaning Tower without fuss, this could be worth considering.

This tour suits travelers who want a structured day with the security of transportation and a guide but aren’t necessarily looking for deep, immersive explorations. It works well for cruise passengers who need a quick, reliable way to see these famous spots without worrying about logistics.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation makes visiting both Lucca and Pisa straightforward, especially for cruise travelers.
• The escort-led walking tour in Lucca offers valuable insights into its main landmarks.
• Free time in both cities allows for personal exploration and photos.
• The price is reasonable, but some reviews mention organizational hiccups.
• Limited access for children under 8 at the Leaning Tower might be a consideration for families.
• The overall experience depends heavily on group size and scheduling on the day.

What to Expect from This Tour

This shore excursion packs a lot into an 8-hour window. It’s split between two historic towns, each with its own vibe and attractions. You’ll start early in La Spezia at the cruise terminal, where a staff member wearing a green T-shirt will greet you and usher you onto a comfortable, air-conditioned bus.

The Journey Begins: Transport and Meeting Point

The pickup is just outside the cruise terminal, with a prompt start at 9:30 am. The bus includes WiFi, which is a small but appreciated detail, especially after a long morning of travel. Keep in mind, there’s no pick-up service included, so you’ll need to be punctual at the meeting point. Arriving 15 minutes early is advised, as latecomers won’t be refunded.

Exploring Lucca: Medieval Charm and Notable Landmarks

Your first stop is Lucca, a town famous for its well-preserved Renaissance walls and charming streets. Once there, you have about three hours to explore either on your own or with a guided walk if you’ve selected that option during booking.

The guided walk promises to take you through the Torre Guinigi, with its distinctive garden atop, the Anfiteatro Square—a Roman amphitheater turned bustling square—and the San Frediano Church. According to reviews, the guide is often praised for their knowledge, adding depth to the walk. One reviewer mentioned, “Very well organized and I would definitely trust [the company] again. Mattea the guide was very friendly and helpful.”

While some travelers have expressed a wish for more free time or a longer visit, three hours is enough to get a good taste of Lucca’s medieval atmosphere, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture. The Torre Guinigi’s high vantage point offers excellent views of the city, and the quiet charm of the square creates a lovely atmosphere for a relaxed stroll.

Transition to Pisa: The Iconic Piazza

After Lucca, the bus takes you to Pisa, arriving at the famous Piazza dei Miracoli. It’s just a quick two-minute walk from the bus drop-off point, so you’ll be there in no time. Here, you’re provided with some free time to visit the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery.

One of the highlights is the chance to see the Leaning Tower up close, which is certainly a must-see if you’re in the area. You’ll love the sheer novelty of seeing such a famous monument in person, even if climbing it isn’t included in your ticket.

Climbing the Leaning Tower

If you choose to climb the Leaning Tower (note: not included in the ticket), you’ll have about 40 minutes to ascend and admire the views from above. Keep in mind, children under 8 are not permitted to climb, which is important for families to consider.

Reviews mention that the free time here is sufficient for quick photos and to soak up the atmosphere, but also that the schedule can be tight. One reviewer noted, “The tour would have been great, but our guide took a wrong turn back to the coach, and we had to walk 40 minutes in the heat.” It’s worth being prepared for the possibility of last-minute logistical surprises.

Other Sights in Pisa

Beyond the tower, you’ll find the Monumental Cemetery and the Baptistery, both impressive structures that add to Pisa’s allure. The Duomo di Pisa is also part of the visit, though only for about 20 minutes, so don’t expect an in-depth tour.

Because admission tickets for the Pisa attractions aren’t included, you might find yourself paying a bit extra if you want full access. The overall focus of this tour is on quick sightseeing rather than in-depth exploration.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The included air-conditioned bus makes the journey comfortable, especially important if you’re traveling during warmer months. The group size cap of 60 travelers can sometimes make the experience feel a little crowded, especially in popular spots like Pisa.

Timing is tight—departing at 9:30 am, the tour ends back at La Spezia, guaranteeing you’re on time for your cruise. Some reviews highlight that the schedule can be affected by cruise itineraries or last-minute changes, so flexibility is key.

What Do Travelers Say?

Several reviewers praise the knowledgable guides and the stunning views. One reviewer even said, “The tour guide was great,” which speaks to the quality of the escort during the walk. However, others mention organizational issues—like delays or last-minute rearrangements—that impacted their experience.

In particular, one traveler lamented a guide leading them on a wrong turn, requiring a 40-minute walk in intense heat, illustrating that while the tour offers a lot, it’s not immune to hiccups.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just under $60, it’s an affordable way to see Lucca and Pisa in one day, especially if you’re limited on time during a cruise. The inclusion of transportation, WiFi, and an escort adds convenience, but the value depends on your expectations.

If you’re looking for a relaxed day with plenty of free time to wander and explore at your own pace, this might feel rushed. Conversely, if your priority is hitting the highlights with a guide’s insights, it offers a decent snapshot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is best suited for cruise passengers or travelers who want a structured, guided experience without worrying about logistics. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see the Leaning Tower and explore historic Lucca quickly.

However, those wanting a more leisurely or in-depth visit, or traveling with small children under 8, should consider whether the schedule and activities match their pace and needs.

Final Thoughts

This tour from La Spezia offers a practical way to see two iconic Italian towns, especially if time is limited. Its strengths lie in the organized transportation, the knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to snap photos of world-famous landmarks. But it’s not without its flaws—schedule tightness and occasional logistical hiccups mean you’ll want to stay flexible.

If you value guided insights and want a reliable way to visit Lucca and Pisa without the hassle of planning, this could be a good option. But if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with young kids, you might want to look for alternatives or plan extra free time on your own.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned shuttle bus from La Spezia to Lucca and Pisa.

Can I climb the Leaning Tower?
Climbing the tower is optional and not included in the ticket. The tower’s access is limited to children over 8, and you’ll have about 40 minutes if you choose to climb.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning to La Spezia in time for your cruise.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is usually booked around 78 days in advance, and there’s a strict policy about arriving on time—late arrivals aren’t refunded.

Are tickets for the attractions included?
No, the entrance tickets for the Pisa attractions (like the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Tower) are not included, so you should plan to pay separately if you want full access.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s suitable for travelers comfortable with walking and last-minute schedule adjustments. Children over 8 can climb the tower, but younger kids might find the busy schedule and walking a bit much.

In essence, this La Spezia shore excursion is a reliable way to hit two of Italy’s most photographed spots, with the convenience of guided transportation. It’s worth it if you’re happy with a quick, well-organized visit, but don’t expect a leisurely or in-depth experience.