Lucca Tour and Pisa Tower + WineTasting by van from La SpeziaPort

If you’re in La Spezia and craving a day of exploring Tuscany’s authentic towns with a touch of local flavor, this Lucca and Pisa tour might just be what you’re looking for. From the moment we first read about it, a few things caught our eye: the promise of visiting Lucca’s famous city walls, the chance to see the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the opportunity to enjoy a wine tasting at a traditional Tuscan winery. All of this for a reasonable price, with a small group vibe that feels personal rather than touristy.

What we love about this experience is how it combines cultural sights with gastronomy, giving you a taste of both history and local life. The fact that the driver-guide tries to make the journey comfortable and informative, stopping at scenic spots and sharing insights, sounds like a real bonus. A potential drawback? The timing can be tight, especially if you want to linger longer in each place—so if you’re the type to savor every moment, plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded experience without the hassle of planning multiple transportation legs. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate local touches—like the wine tasting—and want to get a feel for Tuscany beyond its major tourist landmarks. It’s also great for first-timers who enjoy a small group with personalized attention, but those seeking a leisurely, unhurried pace might find the schedule a little packed.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focuses on local charm, artisan shops, and genuine Tuscan flavor.
• Personalized Touch: Small group size (max 15) and driver-guides who share local insights.
• Well-Curated Itinerary: Combines cultural sights with wine tasting and local cuisine.
• Convenience: Pickup directly at La Spezia cruise port, making it easy for cruise travelers.
• Value for Money: At around $195, it offers a full day with multiple highlights.
• Limited Time Flexibility: The schedule is structured; longer stays at each stop aren’t included.

If you’re looking for a way to explore two of Tuscany’s most beloved towns without the stress of navigating on your own, this tour offers a practical solution. From La Spezia, the journey begins early in the morning with pickup right under your cruise ship or port area. The drive through the rolling hills of Tuscany sets the tone for the day—scenic, peaceful, and a little magical.

The Charm of Lucca

The first stop is Lucca, known as Italy’s most famous walled city. We loved the way the tour emphasizes authenticity, with the driver stopping at spots that reveal hidden corners and local highlights inside the historic city walls. You get roughly two hours here, which is enough time to stroll around, soak in the atmosphere, and see the key sights without feeling rushed.

What makes Lucca special? Its intact city walls that you can walk or cycle along, offering panoramic views of the rooftops and surrounding countryside. You’ll pass through charming streets lined with artisan shops, cafes, and medieval architecture. Reviewers like Wendy appreciated the chance to learn about Lucca and enjoy free time to explore, describing her experience as “great” and highlighting her guide’s knowledge.

The Wine Tasting in Tuscany

Next, the tour takes you to a typical Tuscan winery—an authentic experience that many travelers find rewarding. Here, you’ll taste wines produced locally, complemented by some light food. The winery visit includes a little tour inside the cellar, giving you a peek into the winemaking process. The reviews consistently mention the authenticity and friendly atmosphere of this stop, with Janice noting it was a delight to connect with local flavors and people.

The two-hour stop allows time for a proper tasting and to appreciate the regional varieties. It’s a great chance to learn about Tuscan wines directly from the producer and perhaps pick up a bottle or two as a souvenir.

The Iconic Pisa

The final destination, if time permits, is Pisa, home to the world-famous Leaning Tower. The tour includes about two hours in Pisa—enough to take some memorable photos and admire the architecture. While the visit is brief, the reviews suggest that the view of the tower is quite satisfying. Brenda said her guide was knowledgeable and friendly, making sure everyone had a good experience.

Timing is a key consideration here; if you’re tight on schedule, the Pisa stop offers just enough time to snap photos and appreciate the landmark without feeling hurried.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfortable Transportation and Local Insights

Traveling by Mercedes small van makes the journey smooth and enjoyable, especially through the scenic Tuscan countryside. The driver-guide sharing stories and answering questions makes the experience feel personal and engaging rather than just a bus ride. We loved the way they stop at viewpoints and hidden spots—it’s these little touches that elevate the trip.

The Value of the Experience

For roughly $195.63 per person, you’re gaining a full day of sightseeing, tasting, and culture. When you consider the cost of transport, entrance fees (though free at Lucca and Pisa), and the included wine tasting, it’s quite fair. Plus, booking 132 days in advance shows it’s a popular choice, which often correlates with quality.

Reviews Affirm the Quality

Every review we found gives this tour a perfect 5-star rating, praising the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the authenticity of the experiences. Travelers loved the combination of beautiful scenery, charming towns, and delicious local wine. Several mention they would recommend it without hesitation, making it clear that this tour delivers on its promises.

Potential Downsides

The main thing to keep in mind is the schedule’s tightness—if you prefer more leisurely exploration, this might feel rushed. Also, since the tour is group-based with a maximum of 15 travelers, it’s a good idea to be comfortable with some level of shared experience and a structured timetable. For those who want to linger longer or explore more deeply, self-guided options might suit better.

This experience is ideal for cruise travelers looking for an organized, hassle-free day out that covers multiple highlights. It’s suited for those who value local authenticity—the wine tasting and artisan stops add a genuine flavor to the day. If you’re interested in small-group travel with personal attention and enjoy scenic drives through Tuscany’s rolling hills, this will fit well.

It’s also a good choice for first-timers in the region who want a well-rounded introduction without the stress of planning individual transport or sightseeing. However, if you’re someone who prefers to explore at your own pace, you might want to consider other options with more flexibility.

FAQs

How do I get picked up for the tour?
The pickup is offered directly at the La Spezia cruise terminal, under your boat, making it straightforward for cruise travelers.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The tour mentions to communicate any allergies or food preferences—so it’s best to let the provider know in advance to accommodate your needs.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the same meeting point.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 15 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and personalized.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund—no fuss.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly mentioned, the overall family-friendliness depends on your kids’ comfort with bus travel and walking. You might find it suitable for older children who enjoy sightseeing.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for wandering around Lucca and Pisa. Also, bring a camera for photos and some cash for extra purchases or tips.

Will I have enough time at Pisa?
Yes, about two hours should be enough for photos and quick sightseeing, but it is a brief stop.

Is this tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
Since it involves walking within the towns and some steps at attractions, it’s best to check your mobility needs beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This Lucca and Pisa tour from La Spezia offers a solid balance between cultural sights, local experiences, and scenic travel. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a well-organized, authentic taste of Tuscany without the hassle of planning. The inclusion of wine tasting adds a unique, flavorful touch that many visitors appreciate, and the small group size helps keep the experience personal and engaging.

If you’re aiming to see the essence of these historic towns in a day, enjoy some local wine, and have a guide who shares genuine insights, this tour could be a great fit. Just be prepared for a fairly full day—and a schedule that moves at a brisk but comfortable pace.

Happy travels, and I hope you find your perfect blend of history, scenery, and flavor in Tuscany!