EASY Pisa & Lucca 7-Hour Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia

A Convenient and Authentic Day Trip from La Spezia: Pisa & Lucca in 7 Hours

If you’re docked in La Spezia and itching to see some of Italy’s most charming towns without sacrificing half your day on the road, this private shore excursion offers a practical and memorable solution. For around $544.55 per person, you’ll spend roughly six to seven hours exploring Pisa’s world-famous Leaning Tower and Lucca’s historic walls and vibrant streets. The tour also includes comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and the flexibility to customize your experience — a real plus for those who value comfort and efficiency.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines two contrasting but equally captivating towns—the compact, iconic Pisa and the more relaxed, elegant Lucca. The drive time is minimized, so you get more time to enjoy each stop. Plus, the kid-friendly aspect stands out; children 12 and under travel free, making this an attractive choice for families. The opportunity to pre-book your Pisa climbing tickets and entrance to Ilaria del Carretto’s tomb adds a layer of convenience, though it does come at extra cost.

A potential consideration is the brief amount of time at each site—if you’re a history buff or eager to explore every corner, this might feel rushed. Still, for most travelers, the balance of sightseeing and relaxation hits the sweet spot. This tour suits those who want a well-organized, authentic experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Comfortable Private Transport: You’ll be driven in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a relaxed journey.
• Concise Itinerary: Designed to maximize your time at Pisa and Lucca, with about 45 minutes at Pisa and three hours in Lucca.
• Expert Guidance: Live commentary enhances your understanding of each site’s significance.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids 12 and under go free, making it a family-friendly outing.
• Flexibility: Options to pre-book tickets for Pisa’s Tower and Lucca’s San Martino church.
• Scenic Drive: The return through Tuscany and Liguria offers beautiful landscapes and a restful way to end your day.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Pisa: The Iconic Leaning Tower and More

Within about an hour’s drive from La Spezia, you’ll arrive at Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the famous Leaning Tower, the cathedral, baptistery, and cemetery. These monuments are some of Italy’s most recognizable landmarks, and even a brief visit allows for fantastic photos—and some fun attempts at the classic “holding up the tower” shot.

The climb up the Leaning Tower is optional, and while it does require an additional ticket (around 35 Euro per person), it’s well worth considering if you want a panoramic view and a tangible connection to Italy’s architectural marvels. If you prefer to stay on solid ground, you’ll have plenty of time to admire the tower’s tilt and take memorable photos. One reviewer appreciated the creative shot opportunities, especially the “holding up” the tower — a must-try for families and selfie lovers.

The church and baptistery are rich in art and history, but with only about 45 minutes here, you’ll mainly focus on these highlights. The free viewing is enough to soak in the grandeur, but the optional tickets provide a deeper experience.

Lucca: A Beautiful Contrasts

Following a 30-minute drive, you’ll reach Lucca, a city that’s much more than its ancient walls. The drive around the fortified walls offers sweeping views of the city’s lush gardens and quaint rooftops — a standout photo opportunity.

Your guide will give a quick overview of the main sights, including San Frediano, Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, Piazza Napoleone, and San Michele in Foro. If you choose to visit San Martino church, you can see Ilaria del Carretto’s tomb — acclaimed as one of Italy’s most beautiful funerary sculptures, comparable to Michelangelo’s work, according to some.

The three hours in Lucca give ample time to stroll its narrow streets, browse artisan shops, and enjoy some of the best gelato we’ve sampled in Italy. The shops range from high-end fashion brands to quaint boutiques filled with handmade crafts — perfect for picking up souvenirs or simply soaking in local color. The local cuisine is also notable, with many cafes offering delicious Tuscan specialties.

Scenic Drive Back Through Tuscany

On the return to La Spezia, you’ll pass through the rolling hills of Tuscany and Liguria, providing a scenic backdrop to your journey. This hour-long drive allows you to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights, rounding out a well-balanced experience.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers who have used this tour service speak highly of their guides and drivers. One reviewer called their experience “regal,” noting the attentiveness, knowledge, and friendliness of the guides, making the trip feel personalized rather than rushed. Another mentioned that “everyone was fantastic,” emphasizing timeliness and professionalism — crucial factors when coordinating a ship day.

The feedback about the well-organized logistics and choice of sites underscores the value of this tour, especially for those who want a snapshot of Italy’s most famous attractions without the stress of planning every detail.

Value and Practical Tips

While $544.55 per person might seem steep, it’s important to weigh what you’re getting: private transportation, live commentary, and the convenience of a timed, curated experience. For families, the free participation of kids under 12 adds value, and the flexibility to pre-book tickets saves time and hassle on the day.

The brief time at each site means you’ll need to prioritize your interests. If you’re eager to focus on photography, history, or simply relaxing without a packed schedule, this is an excellent fit. Keep in mind that the tour’s structure is tight, so if you crave a more leisurely exploration, consider adjusting your expectations or choosing a different, longer tour.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for cruise travelers who want a well-organized, efficient way to see Pisa and Lucca without missing their ship’s departure. It’s perfect for families, thanks to the kid-friendly pricing and manageable pace. Art and architecture lovers will appreciate the highlights, while those keen on scenery will enjoy the drive through Tuscany.

If you’re short on time but want a taste of Italy’s most photogenic towns, this tour offers a balanced and satisfying experience, leaving you with beautiful memories and plenty of photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, this private tour offers exceptional value for those wanting a tailored, comfortable, and authentic glimpse of Pisa and Lucca. It strikes a good balance between seeing the main sights and enjoying some leisure time to wander, shop, and sample local flavors. The guides’ knowledge and attentiveness, combined with smooth logistics, make it a reliable choice for cruise passengers and day-trippers alike.

While it’s not a detailed deep dive into each city’s history, it’s a perfect overview for those who want to maximize their limited time, especially if traveling with family or in a group that appreciates flexibility and personalized service.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially since kids 12 and under participate free. The tour provides a relaxed pace with manageable sightseeing stops, making it family-friendly.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, live commentary, and guaranteed on-time return to your ship. Additional costs are for entrance tickets and optional climbs.

Can I climb the Leaning Tower?
Yes, you can pre-book tickets for the tower—costing about 35 Euro per person. This allows you to enjoy panoramic views from atop, though it is an optional add-on.

How long is the drive between sites?
The drive from La Spezia to Pisa takes about an hour, with another half-hour to Lucca. The return drive through Tuscany is approximately one hour.

How much time is spent in each location?
Expect about 45 minutes in Pisa and three hours in Lucca, including some free time to explore on your own.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but plenty of cafes and shops offer delicious options in Lucca.

Are tickets to sites pre-arranged?
You can pre-book tickets for Pisa’s Tower and Lucca’s San Martino church, but these are not included in the basic price.

What if my ship is delayed?
The tour guarantees on-time return, but it’s best to confirm your ship’s schedule and communicate any delays well in advance.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It’s suitable for all physical abilities. Walking in Lucca is manageable, with options to enter major sites or stay outside and enjoy the ambiance.

This tour delivers a well-rounded slice of Tuscany’s most iconic towns, perfect for travelers wanting a taste of Italy’s beauty, culture, and history without the hassle of self-guided planning.