Portovenere and the Cinque Terre Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia

Exploring Portovenere and the Cinque Terre: A Practical Guide to a Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia

If you’re docking in La Spezia and looking to soak up some of Italy’s most iconic coastal scenery, a private shore excursion to Portovenere and the Cinque Terre might be just what you need. From what we’ve gathered, this tour offers a personalized experience—meaning you can tweak your stops and pace according to your interests. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a flexible, intimate day out rather than a large group rush.

What really stands out in this tour are two things: the chance to explore charming fishing villages like Portovenere and Vernazza, and the opportunity to enjoy spectacular views from both land and sea, especially on the ferry rides. The guides are described as knowledgeable and accommodating, which adds a lot to the overall vibe. And since it’s private, you’re not stuck in a crowd—perfect if you value intimacy and the ability to decide how much time to spend where.

A potential consideration is the cost. At just over $1,000 for up to seven people, it’s a bit of an investment, but the value depends on how much you’ll enjoy the flexibility and personalized approach. Also, keep in mind that activities like ferry rides and wine tastings come at an extra cost, so budget accordingly.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate scenic landscapes, want a tailored experience, and don’t mind a full day out. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with a small group or family who want to avoid the chaos of large tours and enjoy the landscape at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your interests
• Includes port pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier
• Great for small groups up to 8 people, ensuring intimacy
• Visit charming villages like Portovenere, Vernazza, and Corniglia
• Options to enjoy ferry rides, wine tastings, and scenic drives
• Flexible stops for photos, exploring, or relaxing

Why Choose This Tour?

This private tour from La Spezia offers more than just a checklist of sights. It’s about tailoring your journey along Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast. We love how it combines the charm of small fishing villages with the scenic beauty of the coastline—making for a memorable day. Since it’s a private experience, your time is your own, and your guides can focus on what interests you most.

The tour starts early, with a pickup at the La Spezia cruise terminal around 8:00 am, which means you’ll beat some of the crowds and get the most out of your day. You’ll be transported comfortably in a private vehicle, giving you the freedom to stop at viewpoints or take photos whenever you like.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Porto Venere

Your adventure begins in Porto Venere, one of Italy’s most picturesque fishing villages. We love this spot for its lively, colorful alleys and the chance to visit the church of San Pietro, which offers breathtaking views over the bay. The review mentions that exploring from the sea can be especially rewarding, with ferry rides offering a chance to see the villages from a different perspective. This ferry ride, although at an extra cost, is highly recommended and is a highlight for many; it passes by Riomaggiore and Manarola, providing fantastic photo ops.

One reviewer, Vicki S, called it “a favorite shore excursion,” praising the guide Giovanni for making the experience memorable. The two hours here give enough time to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Stop 2: Vernazza

Next, you’ll head to Vernazza, often called one of the most charming of the Cinque Terre villages. It’s a perfect spot for lunch—think fresh seafood, local pasta, and views you won’t forget. Vernazza’s small bay is surrounded by cliffs, with historic watchtowers and the 1318 church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia dominating the scene.

According to reviews, Vernazza is a true highlight, especially for its traditional fishing vibe and scenic harbor. The two-hour stop provides ample time to walk around, take photos, and enjoy some local fare.

Stop 3: Corniglia

After lunch, your drive continues to Corniglia, the only village not directly on the coast but perched on a hilltop surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. It’s a quieter place, perfect for those who enjoy scenic walks or want a less touristy moment. Connecting to the sea involves a steep climb of 365 steps from the train station or a short hike, which can be a fun challenge or a reason to indulge in gelato, as many visitors do. You might also opt for a Vermentino wine-tasting (additional cost), which is a lovely way to savor the local flavors.

One traveler noted that Corniglia’s setting is unlike the other villages, offering a different perspective of the Ligurian coast.

Stop 4: The Overall Experience

The final part of the tour is more flexible—your driver might suggest scenic viewpoints or brief stops for photos. Many appreciate that the guide can accommodate your interests, whether that’s a quiet moment, a photo op, or just taking in the landscape.

There’s also mention of enjoying a Vermentino wine-tasting, which, while optional and at an extra fee, adds a nice touch to the day. The views from the car or on a stop are described as stunning, making this a relaxing, slow-paced exploration rather than a hurry-through affair.

What Does the Tour Include?

You’ll be riding in a private vehicle, with bottled water provided, and your driver/guide will help navigate the day. The port pickup and drop-off make logistics straightforward—you won’t need to worry about public transportation or navigating unfamiliar streets.

However, some extras are at your own expense—ferry rides, lunches, wine tastings, and any entrance fees to hiking trails or sites are not included. This means you have control over how much you spend, which can be a good thing if you’re on a budget or want to splurge on specific experiences.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

While the tour is designed to be flexible, it’s not suited to those with limited mobility, as there’s some walking, especially in villages like Corniglia. The tour lasts around 9 hours, which can be a long day if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace or are traveling with young children. That said, it’s ideal for travelers who enjoy moving around, taking photos, and savoring the scenery without feeling rushed.

Weather can impact some activities, especially ferry rides; it’s worth checking the forecast if you plan to include that part of the experience.

What Past Travelers Say

The glowing reviews tell us a lot. Vicki S described it as “a favorite,” emphasizing how much she loved the experience with her guide Giovanni. Dede Ramsey appreciated the guide Walter’s knowledge and flexibility, especially mentioning the hike between towns and seaside lunch. Lisa H highlighted how personal stories and small group setting made the experience more meaningful—and more fun, especially if you prefer a relaxed, tailored approach.

Multiple reviewers appreciated the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, which really elevates the day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re after an up-close, personalized experience of the Ligurian coast, this private shore excursion offers tremendous value. The ability to choose which towns to visit, enjoy scenic drives and optional activities, and avoid large crowds is a big plus. The price might seem high at first glance, but considering the inclusions—private transport, port pickup, and the flexibility—it can be a worthwhile splurge.

The tour is best for travelers who love scenery, want a more relaxed, customized day, and don’t mind paying extra for ferry rides or wine tastings. It’s particularly suited for small groups or couples who want an intimate, tailored experience without the rush.

FAQs

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 8:00 am from La Spezia.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While the data doesn’t specify family-friendliness explicitly, the moderate physical activity like walking and some hiking suggests it’s better suited for those with a moderate physical fitness level—not necessarily ideal for very young children.

What is included in the price?
The private transportation, port pickup and drop-off, and bottled water are included. Extras like ferry rides, lunches, wine tastings, and entrance fees are paid separately.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, as this is a private tour, you have the flexibility to choose which villages and activities to prioritize.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 8 people can book, making it perfect for small groups or families.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. Since part of the day involves outdoors, weather-appropriate clothing is wise.

Is there a recommended time to book?
Most people book well in advance—on average, about 200 days ahead. Confirmations are immediate unless booked within 3 days of travel.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, receiving a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through the provider, Luccalimo, with the details provided on the booking site or by contacting them directly via email or phone.

In essence, if you’re looking for a flexible, small-group adventure that captures the essence of Italy’s Ligurian coast, this private shore excursion offers a thoughtful, scenic, and highly personal way to spend your day. It combines scenic drives, charming villages, and the chance to enjoy views from land and sea, all with the comfort of a private guide shaping your experience.