Pisa, Lucca, and Lunch at a Tuscan Winery from La Spezia

Exploring Tuscany can be a highlight of any trip along the Italian coast, especially when you want a taste of the region’s iconic sights without feeling overwhelmed. This Pisa, Lucca, and Lunch at a Tuscan Winery tour from La Spezia promises a relaxed yet enriching day—perfect for those who prefer a manageable pace and authentic experiences. While it’s not a full-blown deep dive into Tuscany’s vast offerings, it hits the highlights with thoughtful touches.

What really stands out is the combination of quick, scenic stops—like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the historic walls of Lucca—paired with a personalized wine tasting and homemade meal. Plus, the tour’s intimate setting makes it easier to absorb the local vibe and ask questions. One thing to keep in mind is that the lunch is not included in the price, which can add up, but the quality and experience at the family-run winery seem to justify it.

This tour seems ideal for travelers who want a flexible, engaging day without long hours on the road. It’s especially suited if you value local flavor and a little bit of everything—sightseeing, gourmet food, and wine—without the burden of large group tours or rigid schedules.

Key Points

• Short, manageable day: 8 to 9 hours from La Spezia, perfect for active travelers.
• Personalized experience: Private transportation with an English-speaking driver.
• Ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and food.
• Lunch not included in the tour price, so budget accordingly.
• Flexible itinerary with free time in Pisa and Lucca.
• Highly rated guides and authentic family-run winery experience.

An Honest Look at the Itinerary

This tour combines some of Tuscany’s most beloved highlights into a single day, offering a practical and enjoyable way to see Italy beyond the coast. We’ll start with a quick drive from La Spezia—roughly an hour—to Pisa. The advantage here is that your driver drops you right at the Campo dei Miracoli, saving you about twenty minutes of walking from the bus parking area. That’s a small detail, but it makes a difference if you’re trying to maximize your sightseeing time or traveling with kids or older relatives.

In Pisa, you’ll have about 30 minutes to snap photos of the Leaning Tower and the surrounding monuments. The tour doesn’t include entry tickets—you’re outside looking in—and that’s worth noting if you’d like to climb the tower or explore inside the cathedral. If you do want to go inside or up the Leaning Tower, you’ll need to coordinate that with the guide, so it doesn’t interfere with the rest of your schedule.

From Pisa, the drive to Lucca takes about 25 minutes, and here’s where the tour really shines. Lucca is one of Tuscany’s best-kept secrets: a charming, well-preserved town with an impressive wall that encircles the entire city. We loved the way the tour offers flexibility—spending about three hours to explore. You can stroll along the ramparts, rent a bike, or simply settle into a cafe in Piazza dell’Amphiteatro. The city’s architectural beauty and relaxed vibe make it a favorite for many.

One of the most appreciated features of Lucca is its blend of history and modern life—from Roman ruins to chic boutiques. The guide will point out highlights like Palazzo Pfanner and the Roman stadium remains, adding context to your walk. Reviews echo how much visitors enjoy this part of the tour, with one saying, “Lucca, wow what a great town!”

The final stop is a family-run winery in the Montecarlo di Lucca region. What sets this apart is the intimate, authentic experience of visiting a small Tuscan farm. After a scenic 25-minute drive, you’ll arrive at Azienda Agricola Enzo Carmignani. The winery tour is brief but informative, and the highlight is the homemade, multi-course lunch paired with 6-8 local wines. It’s not included in the tour price—lunch costs about 55 Euros per adult—but many find it worthwhile. The lunch features cured meats, cheeses, seasonal pasta or rice, and fresh fruit, all served in a warm, family atmosphere.

Guests have raved about the quality of the wine and the authenticity of the setting. One reviewer called the winery experience a “lovely family winery,” and the olive oil they sampled was noted as “amazing.” This part of the day offers a genuine taste of Tuscan life, especially for those who enjoy local food and wine.

What We Loved About the Tour

We appreciated how this experience balances sightseeing with authentic local flavor. The driver and guide were described as friendly and knowledgeable, making the journey smoother and more engaging. The short stops mean you get a taste of the region without the exhaustion of a full-day tour, which is perfect for travelers who want to keep things light yet meaningful.

The timing at each location is well-managed, giving enough time to see the major highlights and soak up the atmosphere. The photos of Pisa from the outside are iconic—and the fact that you’re dropped off right at the field of miracles makes it super convenient.

Lucca is the highlight for many, with its beautiful walls and charming streets. Guests especially enjoy renting bikes along the ramparts or just relaxing in the shade of the trees. The reviews reflect how much visitors love the architectural charm and laid-back vibe.

The wine tasting and homemade lunch at the small winery truly stand out, offering a personal, family-run experience. The wines are well-regarded, and the entire setting feels genuine, not commercialized. Reviews praise the friendly guides and the delicious local ingredients.

Practical Details and Considerations

The cost of this tour is about $558 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But when you consider the private transportation, the short but thorough sightseeing stops, and the wine and food experience, the value becomes clearer. Keep in mind that lunch is paid separately, around 55 Euros for adults, so budget for that extra expense.

The tour lasts around 8 to 9 hours, making it a full but not overwhelming day. The group size is private, meaning it’s just your party, which allows for more flexibility and a more personalized experience. The vehicle is air-conditioned, so comfort is maintained even during warmer days.

If you’re traveling with children or family members, this experience could suit you well, especially since the stops are manageable and the pace is relaxed. Plus, the walking in Lucca is light, and there are plenty of spots for kids to sit and enjoy or explore.

The tour is highly rated, with all reviews giving a 5-star score. People highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the delightful wine tasting as particular strengths.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a well-organized, enjoyable day trip from La Spezia that combines history, scenery, and local flavors, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially good if you prefer a personalized experience over large bus groups, and if a short but meaningful visit to Pisa and Lucca appeals to you. The visit to a family-run winery adds a special touch, giving a taste of authentic Tuscan life.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a balanced day of sightseeing, culture, and culinary delights without feeling rushed. It offers enough flexibility for those who want to snap photos, explore on their own, or indulge in some wine tasting. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for in-depth historical tours or want to spend hours inside monuments, but if those things aren’t your priority, it’s a lovely way to experience Tuscany’s charm.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, this tour can work well for families, especially since the stops are manageable in length and the atmosphere is relaxed. Children can enjoy the scenic walls of Lucca and the fun of tasting local food and wine.

How long is the drive between stops?
The total driving time is approximately 50 minutes, with short drives between Pisa, Lucca, and the winery. The drive is comfortable and scenic.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
No, entry to the monuments in Pisa and Lucca is free, but if you want to climb the Leaning Tower or visit inside other sites, you’ll need to coordinate with the guide.

How much does lunch cost?
Lunch at the winery costs around 55 euros per adult, payable directly at the venue. It’s a multi-course meal with wine pairings, so it’s a worthwhile experience for food and wine lovers.

What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, an English-speaking driver with commentary, bottled water, and the visits to Pisa, Lucca, and the winery. Lunch is not included.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private experience, so only your group participates, which allows for more flexibility and personalized attention.

Can I customize the itinerary?
If you’d like to visit inside the monuments or do something extra, you should coordinate with your guide to make sure it fits the schedule, especially for climbing the Leaning Tower.

This tour offers a taste of Tuscany that’s both manageable and memorable—ideal for those who want a relaxed day with a good mix of sightseeing and authentic local experiences.