EASY Pisa & Lucca 7-Hour Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia

Exploring Pisa and Lucca: A Practical Look at the 7-Hour Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia

If you’re considering a day trip from La Spezia that balances iconic sights with charming small-town vibes, this Private Shore Excursion to Pisa and Lucca might be just what you need. While many travelers flock to Pisa for the Leaning Tower, this tour cleverly combines that quick visit with a more relaxed exploration of Lucca—an often overlooked gem that offers a less crowded, more authentic Italian experience.

What immediately caught our attention about this tour is its convenient timing—only about six to seven hours, making it manageable even if your cruise schedule is tight. Plus, the private transportation ensures you travel comfortably and efficiently, avoiding the hassle of public transit or guided shuttles. We also appreciate that kids under 12 go free, making it a family-friendly option without needing to break the bank.

One thing to consider is that the tour’s cost of $544.55 per person isn’t exactly cheap, but it does include a fair amount of flexibility and comfort. The main drawback is that some attractions, like climbing the Leaning Tower or visiting the tomb of Ilaria del Carretto, are optional extras—meaning you’ll need to budget extra if you want to experience these highlights fully.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a stress-free, well-organized way to see two of Tuscany and Liguria’s most captivating spots without spending hours in transit. It’s particularly good for those who value personalized attention and appreciate a mix of history, architecture, and local flavor—all in one manageable day.

Key Points

• Comfort & Convenience: Private, air-conditioned transport makes for a relaxed day.
• Time-efficient: About 6 to 7 hours to see Pisa and Lucca without rushing.
• Family-friendly: Kids under 12 travel free, making it suitable for families.
• Highlights include: Pisa’s famous cathedral and Leaning Tower, and Lucca’s historic walls and piazzas.
• Additional costs: Climbing the Leaning Tower and viewing the tomb are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Authentic experience: Guided drives and optional stops provide personalized insights.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Arrival in Pisa and the Piazza dei Miracoli

We loved the way the tour kicks off with a scenic drive from La Spezia—about an hour—and then a quick visit to Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli. It’s hard not to be impressed by the cathedral, baptistery, and cemetery, which are all breathtaking in their own right. The Leaning Tower is of course the star here, and if you decide to climb it (for an additional fee of around 35 Euro), you’ll get a unique view of the city from the top.

Even if you skip the climb, there’s plenty to enjoy with quick photo ops—especially the classic shot of everyone “holding up” the tower. Our review mentions that the 45-minute stop is enough to see the main sights and get some memorable photos, but it’s definitely a whirlwind visit. You’ll want to be efficient with your time here and pre-book tickets if you plan to ascend.

Lucca’s City Walls and Historic Center

Next up is Lucca, a city that packs in charm and history. The drive from Pisa takes around 30 minutes, and as soon as you arrive, the panoramic drive around the city’s ancient walls gives you a fantastic introduction. Then, your driver guides you through Lucca’s main highlights—think San Frediano, Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, Piazza Napoleone, and San Michele in Foro.

One of the real highlights here is the opportunity to visit the cathedral of San Martino, where you can see the tomb of Ilaria del Carretto—a marble sculpture often called one of Italy’s most beautiful funerary monuments. It costs a small extra fee of 3 Euro per person, but many say it’s worth it for the artistry alone.

The city itself is a delight—winding cobblestone streets, lively piazzas, and shops filled with both high-end brands and artisan crafts. The tour makes the most of your time by offering a guided drive with background info before giving you free time to explore or grab gelato. Several reviews mention that the guides are attentive and knowledgeable, making the brief visit more meaningful.

Scenic Return through Tuscany and Liguria

The final hour of the tour takes you through the beautiful Tuscan landscape, a peaceful drive that showcases Italy’s rolling hills and charming villages. The slow-paced return is a nice way to soak in the view and reflect on the day’s highlights before your driver drops you back at La Spezia port.

What the Tour Includes and What You Should Budget For

The core of the experience is comfort and flexibility—your private vehicle, air conditioning, and live commentary on board. The guaranteed on-time return is a big plus if you’re on a cruise schedule.

However, keep in mind that food, drinks, and tips are not included—so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a quick meal in either Pisa or Lucca. The extra fees for climbing the tower and viewing the tomb are worth considering if you want to maximize your experience, but they do add to the overall cost.

What We Love About This Tour

Based on reviews and the description, the guides and drivers stand out as particularly attentive, personable, and professional. One reviewer mentioned that the experience with Papillon “was the best part of their vacation” because of the friendly, knowledgeable guides. Their ability to handle a group of 14, including kids, with ease really speaks to their competence.

The scenic views and authentic small-town atmosphere of Lucca really shine, offering that perfect balance of historical grandeur and laid-back Italian charm. Plus, the option to enter the church and see Ilaria del Carretto’s tomb adds a layer of depth for those interested in art and architecture.

The Downsides?

While the tour is well-organized, it’s still a brief visit—too brief for those wanting a deep dive into each spot. Also, the price tag might seem steep, especially with optional extras adding up. If you’re on a tight budget or have more time, you might consider exploring these places on your own or choosing a different, less expensive tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This excursion is ideal for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time who want a comfortable, guided visit to Pisa and Lucca without the hassle of figuring out transportation. It’s suited for those who appreciate a personalized experience and are okay with spending extra for convenience. If you’re traveling with children under 12, the free participation makes it an economical choice for families.

If you’re a history buff or a lover of picturesque towns, you’ll enjoy the highlights packed into this half-day trip. However, if you prefer to truly explore each spot in depth or have a flexible schedule, you might find this tour a bit rushed.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, especially since kids under 12 travel free. The private transport and manageable schedule make it convenient for families, though the brief stops mean younger children might need some entertainment to stay engaged.

How long does the drive from La Spezia to Pisa take?
About an hour, which is reasonable for a day trip. The drive itself is comfortable in the air-conditioned vehicle.

Can I climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
Yes, but it’s an optional extra costing about 35 Euro per person. You’ll need to pre-book if you want to do this, and it takes roughly 15 minutes to ascend.

Is the tour flexible if I want to spend more time in one place?
Since it’s a pre-planned private tour, some flexibility might be possible, but it’s best to discuss this directly with the provider beforehand.

What’s included in the price?
Private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, live commentary, and guaranteed on-time return. Entry to Pisa’s monuments and Lucca’s sights are mostly included, but climbing the tower and viewing Ilaria’s tomb are extra.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

To sum it up, this private shore excursion offers a comfortable, efficient way to see Pisa’s most famous landmark and Lucca’s charming streets in one manageable half-day. It’s best suited for travelers who value convenience, personalized attention, and a well-organized schedule. While it’s not the cheapest option, the combination of private transport and guided insights can make it a worthwhile choice for a memorable day ashore, especially if you’re short on time but want to experience Italy’s historical and scenic highlights.