La Spezia is a fantastic port for exploring some of Italy’s most iconic destinations. Its strategic location makes it easy for cruise travelers to access Pisa, Florence, Cinque Terre, and beyond. Whether you’re after a quick photo stop at the Leaning Tower or a full-day private tour of Florence’s art treasures, La Spezia offers a variety of options that fit different schedules and interests. We especially like tours that focus on ease and comfort, like the Round-Trip to Pisa which guarantees a stress-free visit, and private experiences that maximize your time in Florence or Cinque Terre. You’ll find that many tours include guaranteed return times, comfortable transportation, and options for guided or self-guided exploration.
La Spezia is perfect for those who want to see Italy’s highlights without the hassle of planning. With options like Pisa and Florence private tours and Cinque Terre trips, travelers can choose between quick visits or more leisurely explorations. Many tours include transportation, so you avoid the headache of train schedules or parking. Read on for detailed descriptions of each experience to help you make the best choice.
1. From La Spezia: Round-Trip to Pisa Cruise Shore Excursion
This tour offers a comfortable shuttle to Pisa, with guaranteed return to your cruise ship, making it an excellent choice for those who want a worry-free experience. In just five hours, you’ll visit the famous Leaning Tower, walk around the Piazza Dei Miracoli, and enjoy free time to explore the historic city center. The bus ride is smooth, and the guide shares engaging facts along the way. Reviewers emphasize how well-organized and relaxing this trip is, with many noting it’s perfect for elderly travelers or those tired from port days. At $48.97 per person, it’s an affordable, straightforward option for seeing Pisa’s highlights without the stress of self-planning. The key benefit here is simplicity — just hop on, enjoy, and return on time. This tour suits travelers who want a quick, scenic escape from the port with minimal fuss.
Bottom Line: An easy, reliable trip to Pisa that’s perfect for anyone short on time or preferring a guided transfer with guaranteed ship return.
2. From La Spezia: Shore Excursion by Bus to Pisa
This slightly longer, six-hour tour offers more free time to soak in Pisa’s main sights. Starting right at the cruise terminal, you’ll enjoy a comfortable coach ride to Pisa, with a qualified multi-language tour leader providing insights. The itinerary includes about two hours in Pisa for sightseeing, shopping, and photo ops, plus a scenic Liguria photo stop. The tour guarantees timely return to your ship, making it ideal for travelers who want flexibility. The price is $59 per person, reflecting its value for a more leisurely visit. Guests appreciate the well-organized nature of the trip and the chance to explore at their own pace. This tour is best suited for those who want extra time to enjoy Pisa or take some memorable photos without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: A good balance of sightseeing and free time, ideal for travelers who want to explore Pisa without a rigid schedule.
3. Pisa and Florence Shore Excursion from La Spezia
For around $1,562.30 per group, this private full-day tour combines Pisa and Florence, two of Tuscany’s most famous cities. Your driver-guide, in a luxurious air-conditioned minivan, takes you through the scenic Tuscan countryside. You’ll visit Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli for photos, then continue to Florence with stops at Piazza del Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazzale Michelangelo. The itinerary is flexible, with personalized commentary and the option to include museum tickets or walking tours. Guests praise the driver’s expertise and the comfort of the vehicle, especially when traveling with family or friends. The only downside is the higher price, but that reflects the exclusivity and convenience of a door-to-door service. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, personalized experience with minimal planning hassle.
Bottom Line: A premium, customizable day in Pisa and Florence perfect for groups seeking privacy and flexibility.
4. Pisa and Florence Shore Excursion from La Spezia
This private tour balances art, architecture, and scenic drives in about nine hours. It includes Pisa’s Miracle Square and a full exploration of Florence’s highlights, like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. Your driver-guide shares live commentary along the way, making it more than just transportation. This tour is especially good if you want to see Florence’s key sights efficiently while enjoying the comfort of a private minivan with WiFi. Reviews mention the driver’s professionalism and the ability to customize stops — it’s ideal for travelers who want an intimate, stress-free experience. The price is steep at $569.68 per person, but for a full-day private experience, it offers excellent value.
Bottom Line: Private, flexible, and perfect for travelers wanting a personalized Florence and Pisa experience without the hassle.
5. La Spezia Shore Excursion to Florence & Pisa
This budget-friendly full-day tour (about 9 hours) at $61.91 per person offers coach transportation combined with free time in both cities. It covers Florence’s highlights—like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Repubblica—plus a visit to Pisa’s Miracle Square. Optional upgrades include walking tours and museum tickets, such as the Accademia Gallery with Michelangelo’s David. Guests appreciate how smoothly the trip runs and the level of independent exploration allowed. It’s best for travelers who prefer a self-guided approach but want the convenience of transportation and a guided overview.
Bottom Line: A cost-effective way to see two iconic cities, with plenty of options to customize your experience.
6. Monterosso and Portofino Shore Excursion from La Spezia
This private 9-hour tour offers a luxurious day along Italy’s coast, with visits to Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino, and Monterosso. Starting at just $1,353.04 for up to 8 people, it’s perfect for small groups or families. The tour includes exploring Portofino’s Gothic architecture, dolphin spotting from the coast, and free time in Monterosso for lunch and sightseeing. Many reviewers highlight the friendly driver and the seamless logistics of visiting multiple spots without relying on public transport. It’s suited for those who prefer a personalized, scenic journey with plenty of flexibility.
Bottom Line: An elegant way to explore the Italian Riviera with comfort and a private guide.
7. Portovenere and the Cinque Terre Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia
This private day trip, priced at $1,041.14 for up to 7 travelers, combines Portovenere’s colorful harbor with Cinque Terre’s famous villages. You can walk through Portovenere’s alleyways, enjoy spectacular views, and visit villages like Vernazza, Riomaggiore, or Manarola. The flexibility to customize your route makes this tour ideal for those wanting a tailored experience. Reviews show that travelers value the personalized attention and the ability to choose specific towns to visit. The tour includes train passes, so you can explore independently in each village. It’s best suited for adventure-seekers who want a private, flexible day on the coast.
Bottom Line: A customizable, scenic tour that’s perfect for small groups wanting control over their itinerary.
8. Pisa, Lucca and Wine Experience Private Shore Excursion
At $464.26 per person, this private 8-hour tour combines Pisa and Lucca with a wine tasting in the countryside. Your driver-guide takes you through Lucca’s historic walls and Carrara’s marble quarries, ending with a visit to a local winery for tasting. Guests rave about how knowledgeable and friendly the guide is, making the experience both educational and relaxing. The tour is ideal for food and wine lovers who also want to see some of Tuscany’s best towns and marble quarries. The mix of culture, scenery, and wine makes this tour stand out, though it’s on the pricier side for just one day.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for travelers who want a culinary and cultural experience in one day.
9. EASY Pisa & Lucca 7-Hour Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia
For $544.55 per person, this shorter private tour focuses on Pisa and Lucca, avoiding the long drive to Florence. You’ll enjoy approximately 6-7 hours, with visits to Pisa’s famous Leaning Tower and Lucca’s medieval walls and piazzas. Guests value the personalized attention and the efficient itinerary that maximizes sightseeing. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace and want to skip the more crowded Florence experience.
Bottom Line: An efficient, flexible option that hits the highlights of Pisa and Lucca without overextending your day.
10. La Spezia Private Shore Excursion to Pietrasanta and Carrara Marble Quarries
This private day trip costs $1,041.84 for up to 7 travelers and explores Pietrasanta’s sculpture studios and Carrara’s marble quarries. You’ll visit the Bozzetti Sculpture Museum and have options to tour active quarries or explore Colonnata village. Guests praise the expert guide and the chance to see Italy’s marble industry firsthand. It’s ideal for those interested in art, sculpture, or geology, providing a deep dive into Tuscany’s marble heritage. The tour balances cultural visits with scenic drives through the mountains.
Bottom Line: Perfect for art lovers and those curious about Italy’s famous marble.
How to Choose Your Ideal La Spezia Shore Excursion
When selecting a tour, consider your interest level, budget, and schedule. If you want a quick, affordable visit, the Round-Trip to Pisa is perfect. For a luxury, personalized day, the Pisa and Florence private tour offers unmatched flexibility. If the coastline scenery appeals, the Portofino and Monterosso trip delivers a memorable day of coastal exploration. Budget travelers might prefer the Florence & Pisa combined, while art lovers can opt for the Pisa, Lucca, and wine experience.
Practical tips include booking early during peak seasons and considering optional add-ons like museum tickets or guided walks for a richer experience. Also, always check the duration and starting times, especially if you have tight ship schedules.
Final Thoughts
La Spezia’s proximity to world-famous destinations makes it a versatile port for all kinds of explorers. From simple transfers to private full-day adventures, there’s something for every traveler. If you prefer a stress-free visit, the Round-Trip to Pisa is a great choice. For those wanting a more comprehensive experience, private tours like Pisa and Florence or coastal trips to Portofino will leave lasting memories. Remember to book early, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date and tour.
Whatever your style — whether quick sightseeing or an in-depth cultural journey — La Spezia’s shore excursions can match your travel plans. Dive into Italy’s gems with confidence, and enjoy your port days to the fullest!