Pisa and Lucca Shore Excursion from La Spezia Port

Exploring Tuscany: A Closer Look at the Pisa and Lucca Shore Excursion from La Spezia Port

If you’re planning a cruise and want to see a bit of Tuscany without the hassle of navigating on your own, this private tour to Pisa and Lucca could be just what you’re looking for. We’ve gathered some insights from travelers who’ve taken this route, and it sounds like a comfy, well-organized way to tick off two iconic Italian cities in a day. What stands out most is the personalized experience—no crowded buses or rushed schedules—and the chance to enjoy these beautiful towns at your own pace.

We particularly appreciate how the tour hits the main highlights with a relaxed vibe, plus the added bonus of private transport, which makes the logistics so much easier. That said, this tour isn’t cheap—at over $1,150 for a group of up to eight—but for many, the convenience and comfort might justify the price. It’s definitely suited for travelers who want a streamlined, tailored experience and prefer not to join large group excursions. If you’re after an authentic, less hectic way to see Pisa and Lucca, this could be just right.

One thing to consider is that the drivers are not licensed guides and can’t enter museums or churches, so if you’re keen on guided art and history tours inside sites, you might need to explore other options or be prepared to enjoy the view from outside. But for those who want a hassle-free day with insider commentary from a friendly driver, it’s a solid pick.

In short, this tour suits travelers valuing comfort and flexibility—ideal for those with limited time who want to maximize their sightseeing without the chaos of larger tour groups or public transport. Now, let’s look at what makes this experience special and what you can expect along the way.

Key Points

• Comfortable and Private: Travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, making the journey relaxing and connected.
• Flexible Itinerary: See the main sights of Pisa and Lucca without feeling rushed, with time allocated for each stop.
• Local Insights: The driver provides commentary, helping you go beyond guidebooks and offering tips on restaurants and spots to explore.
• Hassle-Free: Includes port pickup and drop-off, so no worries about logistics—just enjoy the day.
• Limited Museum Access: Drivers can’t enter sites or give official guided tours inside museums, churches, or monuments.
• Price & Value: At around $1,150 for up to 8 people, it offers good value for a personalized experience, especially considering comfort and convenience.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Stop 1: Piazza dei Cavalieri

Your tour begins at Piazza dei Cavalieri, home to the prestigious Scuola Normale di Pisa. Here, you’ll get a quick peek at one of Pisa’s historic squares, free to admire from the outside. It’s a peaceful start before heading to the busy piazza around the Leaning Tower. These initial moments are perfect for snapping photos and soaking in Pisa’s scholarly vibe without the crowds.

Stop 2: Piazza dei Miracoli

This is the star of Pisa—the Leaning Tower, Pisa Cathedral, and Baptistery. Expect around 45 minutes here, giving you enough time to marvel at the tower’s tilt from outside, snap photos, and soak in the atmosphere of Piazza dei Miracoli, one of Italy’s most recognizable squares. Keep in mind, the entrance tickets to the tower or cathedral aren’t included, which means you may have to queue or purchase tickets separately if you want inside.

Stop 3: Piazza Napoleone

Next, your driver will take you to Piazza Napoleone in Lucca. This lively square offers a taste of the town’s charm, with a relaxed vibe perfect for a quick stop to admire the architecture and maybe grab a coffee or gelato nearby.

Stop 4: Duomo di San Martino

The Lucca Cathedral is another key stop. Known for its beautiful facade and historical significance, it’s a quiet place to appreciate religious art and architecture. You’ll spend about 20 minutes here—just enough to get a sense of Lucca’s spiritual heart.

Stop 5: Torre Guinigi

One of Lucca’s most famous landmarks, Torre Guinigi is topped with a tiny garden of four trees, offering a quirky twist on medieval towers. Climbing it isn’t included, and since the driver can’t enter monuments, you might just enjoy the view from outside. Still, the tower itself offers great photo ops.

Stop 6: Piazza Anfiteatro

This oval-shaped square, built on the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater, is a charming spot to stroll, take photos, or just enjoy the lively atmosphere. It’s a highlight for many visitors due to its unique shape and historic vibe.

Stop 7: Via Fillungo

If you’re into shopping or window browsing, this bustling street is your go-to. Full of shops, cafes, and local boutiques, it’s a great place to stretch your legs and soak up Lucca’s relaxed, friendly ambiance.

Stop 8: Centro Storico Montecarlo

The possibility of a wine tasting at a local winery makes this stop special. It’s about an hour long and offers a chance to unwind, taste some regional wines, and enjoy the Tuscan countryside. Since wine tasting isn’t included in the cost, you might find it’s an optional but memorable addition.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour ticks many boxes for a smooth experience. Included are private transportation, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi on most vehicles, and port pickup/drop-off. The private vehicle makes a big difference, especially if you’re traveling with a group or have lots of luggage.

However, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for a quick bite during your stops. Also, since drivers can’t go inside museums or churches, if you’re eager for detailed guided tours inside these sites, you might want to consider other options or pair this with local guided visits.

The tour’s flexibility means you can request to spend more or less time at certain stops, making it adaptable to your interests and energy level. It’s a good fit for those who prefer a relaxed, personalized approach rather than rushing through crowded sites on a large group bus.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the driver’s punctuality and personable attitude. One shared, “The driver was on time and very personable. Vehicle was clean and in good condition…my family and I enjoyed every minute of this excursion.” Others highlight the comfort of the vehicle and appreciate the recommendations for restaurants and additional sites, like a wine tasting at a winery.

Several mention how this private experience offered better value compared to larger tours. The ability to tailor the time spent at each stop and avoid the crowds stand out as major benefits. One reviewer even called it the “highlight of my trip,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed the flexibility and friendly service.

How We View the Price and Overall Value

At over $1,150 for a group of up to 8, this tour is an investment, but many travelers feel it’s justified by the convenience, comfort, and personalized attention. The included port pickup and drop-off eliminate stress, and private transport makes the day smooth and enjoyable, especially for those who dislike navigating public transit or crowded buses.

Keep in mind, additional costs for entrance tickets or meals aren’t included, so plan ahead if you want inside visits or a sit-down lunch. The tour’s value really shines if you’re looking for a relaxed, hassle-free way to see Pisa and Lucca with someone who can provide local tips and keep things flexible.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after an efficient yet relaxed way to see two of Tuscany’s most charming towns, this private tour is worth considering. It’s especially suitable if you prefer travelling comfortably, value personal service, and want to avoid the chaos of larger tour groups. The chance to enjoy Pisa’s iconic sights and explore Lucca’s medieval streets at your own pace makes it appealing.

However, if you’re keen on in-depth guided tours inside museums or historical sites, keep in mind that the driver isn’t licensed to guide inside monuments. You might want to supplement this experience with a guided tour inside the sites or explore on your own.

This tour offers a balanced combination of comfort, flexibility, and scenic beauty, making it a solid choice for those wanting a hassle-free, memorable day exploring Tuscany’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, especially since it offers a comfortable private vehicle and flexible stops. Just consider whether your family enjoys walking and sightseeing without rigid schedules.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation, air conditioning, Wi-Fi on most vehicles, and port pickup and drop-off. Entrance tickets to sites and lunch are not included.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the driver—whether you want to spend more time at certain sights or skip some altogether.

How long are the stops?
Stops vary from 10 to 45 minutes, depending on the site, giving you enough time to see the main highlights without feeling rushed.

Are entrance tickets to Pisa Tower or Lucca Cathedral included?
No, these are not included, so you can buy tickets separately if you wish to go inside.

Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, most vehicles are equipped with Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected or look up information during the drive.

How early do I need to book?
On average, this tour is booked about 200 days in advance, so it’s best to reserve early if you want to secure your preferred date.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Who leads this tour?
A personable, local driver provides commentary and handles the transportation. They are not licensed guides but can share insights from inside the vehicle.

If you’re looking for a way to comfortably and conveniently see Pisa and Lucca on a cruise day, this private tour from La Spezia offers a thoughtful balance of sightseeing, comfort, and flexibility. It’s an option worth considering if you want a more personalized experience without sacrificing ease of logistics.