La Spezia might be better known as the gateway to Cinque Terre, but it’s also gaining recognition for its delightful wine scene. The region offers a surprising variety of wine experiences, from intimate cellar tastings to full-day adventures exploring Tuscany’s iconic cities. We particularly love the La Spezia: 4 Wines Degustation for its authentic family-run vibe and the chance to learn about local wines directly from producers. If you’re craving a more comprehensive day, the Pisa, Lucca and wine experience Private Shore Excursion combines sightseeing with wine tasting in Tuscany’s famed vineyards. Whether you want a quick taste or a full exploration, La Spezia offers options for all types of wine lovers.
Quick Overview
This list includes a variety of wine tours tailored for different interests and schedules. You’ll find options for short, intimate tastings like the 4 Wines Degustation, as well as full-day excursions that combine city sightseeing with local wine and olive oil sampling. There are private shore excursions perfect for cruise passengers, Gold Standard tastings, and even cooking classes with wine to learn about Italian food and drink culture. Each tour offers a different perspective on Liguria and Tuscany’s wine heritage, so read on to find your perfect match.
1. La Spezia: 4 Wines Degustation
At number 1, the La Spezia: 4 Wines Degustation stands out for its intimate setting and focus on family tradition. For around $44, you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour tour in a cellar where four carefully selected wines are tasted alongside local products. This experience offers a chance to learn about the territory’s terroir and the philosophy of a family deeply rooted in Ligurian winemaking. The host, Matia, shares stories of how their wine reflects the land, making it more than just a tasting. Reviewers love the mix of informative commentary and genuine hospitality—one described it as “a great local tour,” highlighting how naturally the story of the family and region unfolds during the visit. The tasting emphasizes aromatic profiles, with wines that balance sweetness and dryness beautifully.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic experience without a long drive or complex logistics. The small-group setup allows for personalized attention, and the opportunity to purchase wines and local delicacies adds extra value. It’s perfect for those new to wine tasting or anyone wanting a taste of Liguria’s local flavor.
Bottom Line: An excellent, budget-friendly introduction to Ligurian wines, with a personal touch that makes it memorable.
2. Pisa, Lucca and wine experience Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia port
For a full-day adventure, the Pisa, Lucca and wine experience Private Shore Excursion is a top pick. Priced at about $464 per person, it’s best suited for those with limited time in port but a desire to see some Tuscany highlights. The tour combines visits to Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower and Lucca’s beautifully preserved walls with a stunning countryside winery. The transportation is via private minivan, which not only saves time but provides flexibility—you can customize your schedule around your cruise’s timing.
The day begins with a swift but comprehensive visit to Pisa’s Miracle Square, followed by a scenic drive through the countryside to Lucca, known for its charming streets, medieval walls, and outstanding gelato. The highlight is the winery stop, where you’ll tour the cellar and vineyards, and taste a selection of wines and extra-virgin olive oil. The experience is especially suited for travelers who enjoy combining sightseeing with food and drink. One reviewer raved about the “incredible driver” and the “lovely family winery,” adding that the combination of culture and wine was “the best part of the trip.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers who want a flexible, all-in-one day trip combining city highlights with genuine wine tasting in Tuscany.
3. La Spezia: 4 Wines GOLD Degustation
Ranked third, the La Spezia: 4 Wines GOLD Degustation offers a slightly more premium take on Ligurian wine tasting. For $62.63, this 1.5-hour experience focuses on finest wines, including the legendary Sciacchetrà, Liguria’s famous dessert wine. The tour emphasizes storytelling about the land and the family heritage behind each label, creating a personal connection to each sip. Guests praise the informative walk around the winery and the first-class tasting that pairs wine with local delicacies.
While transportation from the cruise terminal isn’t included, many find this experience worthwhile for its focus on premium wines and the opportunity for more in-depth tasting. The host shares detailed insights into winemaking techniques and regional traditions, making it suitable for more serious wine enthusiasts. One reviewer summed up the experience as “very hospitable with excellent food and wine,” noting the opportunity for personalized attention.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting to sample Liguria’s best wines, especially if they’re keen on premium tastings and learning about the region’s specialty wines.
4. La Spezia Walking Tour & Traditional Cooking Class with Wine
If you’re looking to dive into authentic Italian food and wine culture, the La Spezia: Walking Tour & Traditional Cooking Class with Wine offers a hands-on experience. For about $114, you’ll stroll through La Spezia’s market with your host, selecting fresh ingredients, then return to a home kitchen to prepare regional dishes like pasta. The class ends with sampling your creations paired with local wines, making it a perfect way to really understand Italian cuisine.
Guests rave about Daniela’s expertise and warm hospitality, describing the experience as “very authentic and extremely informative.” The class suits travelers who want a culture and practical kitchen skills. While not strictly a wine tour, wine plays a key role in the meal and enhances the tasting experience. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and many find the combination of market shopping, cooking, and eating a highlight.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies eager to learn cooking techniques and enjoy local wines in a relaxed, home-based setting.
5. Pisa, Lucca, and Lunch at a Tuscan Winery from La Spezia
The Pisa, Lucca, and Lunch at a Tuscan Winery is a longer, more immersive experience. For around $558, this 8-9 hour tour is perfect for those who want a tasty combination of sightseeing, culture, and food. It includes a quick visit to Pisa’s Field of Miracles, a three-hour exploration of Lucca’s walled city, plus a homemade lunch paired with wine at a family-run winery in Montecarlo di Lucca.
Reviews highlight the quality of the winery and the friendly family hosts. The tour allows ample free time in Lucca to explore at your own pace, with sights like San Michele in Foro and the city’s chic boutiques. The winery lunch is a real highlight, offering authentic Tuscan cuisine paired with local wines and olive oil. This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to combine cultural sights with culinary delights.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, full-day experience blending history, food, and wine, ideal for those with a bit of extra time and a love of immersive experiences.
6. Lievantu Wine Experience
Finally, the Lievantu Wine Experience offers a more relaxed, scenic journey through Levanto’s valley. For just under $95, you’ll explore terraced hillsides, smell the scents of vines and olives, and visit villages like Lavaggiorosso and Lizza. The tour culminates at Monte delle Streghe, with stunning views of the valley and bay of Levanto. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a taste of rural Liguria with an emphasis on local agriculture.
Guests appreciate the authentic village visits and the opportunity to appreciate the natural landscape. The tour’s focus on scenery and local produce makes it less about formal tastings and more about experiencing the land. It’s ideal for travelers who want a leisurely, scenic overview with some wine-related insights but don’t need a structured tasting.
Bottom Line: A scenic, laid-back option for those interested in local landscape and agriculture rather than intensive wine tasting.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour
When selecting the best wine experience in La Spezia, think about your time availability, budget, and interests. If you want a quick, authentic taste of Ligurian wines, the 4 Wines Degustation offers excellent value. For those with a full day and a desire to explore Tuscany, the Pisa, Lucca and wine experience combines sightseeing with tastings.
If you’re a serious wine enthusiast, the Gold Degustation provides a deeper dive into premium wines. For a culinary twist, the Cooking Class with Wine is perfect. Budget-conscious travelers might appreciate the scenic Lievantu Wine Experience, while cruise passengers will find the private Pisa, Lucca, and wine shore excursion offers convenience.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the more popular full-day and private tours, to ensure you get your preferred date and time.
To sum it up, La Spezia offers a diverse range of wine experiences that cater to different tastes and schedules. Whether you’re after a quick local tasting, an immersive full-day adventure, or a hands-on cooking class, you’ll find options that make the most of this beautiful region. Consider your interests and travel style, and don’t hesitate to book early—these tours fill up quickly during peak seasons. Now, all that’s left is to sip, savor, and enjoy your time in Liguria and Tuscany.