La Spezia Shore Excursion to Lucca and Leaning Tower of Pisa

Planning a day trip from La Spezia to see Pisa and Lucca? This guided excursion offers a convenient way to tick off two of Tuscany’s most beloved towns in just one day. With transportation, a knowledgeable escort, and free time to explore, it’s a solid option for cruise passengers wanting a taste of Italy’s charming medieval towns.

What we appreciate most about this tour is the ease of transportation—an air-conditioned bus and an escort who guides you through the highlights—and the opportunity to see both Lucca’s historic city walls and Pisa’s iconic Piazza dei Miracoli. However, a potential downside is the limited time at each site, which can make the experience feel rushed, especially if you want to explore in depth.

This tour suits travelers looking for a stress-free, organized day without the hassle of planning logistics, especially if you prefer guided insights and want to maximize your port time. If you’re after a relaxed, no-fuss way to see two Tuscan gems, it could be a good fit, though those seeking more flexible or in-depth visits might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation with air-conditioning and a guide ensures comfort and expert insights.
• Limited free time at each city means you’ll experience the highlights but might feel rushed.
• Expert guides are praised for their knowledge, especially in Lucca, making sightseeing more enriching.
• Cost-effective for cruise passengers, offering a way to see major sights without extra planning.
• Group size capped at 60 travelers, balancing social atmosphere with manageable numbers.
• Timing and flexibility may vary, so stay alert to possible schedule changes.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This day trip begins early, with a meeting point just outside La Spezia’s cruise terminal, where the staff wearing red shirts will greet you. The tour departs around 9:30 AM, and the journey to Lucca lasts roughly three hours, giving plenty of time to absorb the scenery along the way. The bus is air-conditioned, which is a blessing on hot summer days or in busy seasons when Italian summers can be intense.

Exploring Lucca: The Medieval Jewel

Once in Lucca, the experience hinges on a guided walk through the city center, where you’ll get a glimpse of its most famous landmarks like Torre Guinigi—a 45-meter-high tower topped with a lush rooftop garden, offering panoramic views of the city. The reviews indicate that the guides are quite knowledgeable, making the visit more engaging. One reviewer specifically appreciated the guide “Mattea,” who was described as friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience.

You’ll also see San Frediano Church and the Roman amphitheater square, where the historical layers of Lucca come alive. The church, built in the 6th century, offers a quiet spot for reflection and shows the city’s early Christian architecture. The square, once a Roman amphitheater, now functions as a lively gathering spot with medieval roots—an essential stop for anyone wanting a taste of authentic Tuscany.

The free time after the guided walk is a nice touch, giving you an opportunity to grab a coffee, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak in the atmosphere. But be mindful that the three-hour window includes the drive, walking, and sightseeing, so it’s a relatively tight schedule.

Pisa and the Piazza dei Miracoli: The World’s Most Famous Leaning Tower

Following Lucca, the tour continues to Pisa, where the highlight is the Piazza dei Miracoli. It’s impossible not to marvel at the Leaning Tower, which many travelers dream of seeing in person. The tour provides a two-minute photo opportunity—perfect for quick snapshots—but if you want to climb the tower, you’ll need to pay extra (and be aware that children under 8 are restricted from entering).

One reviewer noted that the free time allows visitors to explore the cathedral, baptistery, or relax on the green lawns under the shadow of these monuments. With just around 40 minutes for the Pisa stop, it’s enough for a snapshot or a brief walk around, but not for extensive sightseeing or climbing the tower unless you plan ahead and buy tickets separately.

Additional Landmarks and Practicalities

Other noteworthy stops include the Monumental Cemetery (Camposanto) and the baptistery, which are both architectural marvels. The cemetery has a legendary reputation, with a legend claiming bodies rot in just 24 hours, though that’s more myth than fact. The baptistery’s curious truncated cone dome offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval architecture.

The final stop at Pisa’s Duomo (cathedral) is brief but impactful, giving visitors a chance to admire its façade and interior if time permits. The tour wraps up back at the meeting point in La Spezia, ensuring you’re back before your cruise departs.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Dynamics

The entire trip lasts about 8 hours, which might sound long but is packed tightly with sightseeing. The group is limited to 60 travelers, balancing social interaction with manageable logistics. Transportation is via an air-conditioned coach, which is appreciated given Italy’s summer heat or busy season crowds.

Timing is crucial—be sure to arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early, as latecomers won’t be refunded. Departure times are subject to cruise schedules, so it’s essential to communicate your ship’s details and boarding times.

What to Expect From the Guides

Reviews highlight that guides are generally knowledgeable and friendly. One reviewer mentioned that their tour wasn’t canceled despite schedule changes, suggesting the operators are flexible and communicative. However, there was a complaint about a guide taking a wrong turn and forcing a 40-minute walk in extreme heat, which underscores the importance of good navigation and attentive guiding.

Pricing and Value

At around $58.67 per person, this tour offers a good value for cruise passengers who want a stress-free way to see Lucca and Pisa without the hassle of independent arrangements. The cost includes WiFi on board, an escort, and maps, which add convenience. Tickets to the Leaning Tower or interiors of churches are not included, so plan for extra expenses if those are desired.

While the price is reasonable, some travelers have expressed disappointment about the limited time at each site, which may make the experience feel rushed rather than immersive. Still, for those who just want a broad overview and the chance to take iconic photos, it provides a practical solution.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for cruise passengers with limited time who want a guided, organized day. It suits those looking to see key sights rather than exploring in-depth. It’s a good fit for travelers with mobility, as most of the highlights are accessible with minimal walking beyond the guided route—though note the 40-minute walk in the heat as a potential challenge.

If you appreciate having a guide to provide context and want everything arranged in advance, this tour offers a straightforward, no-fuss approach. However, if you’re after a more leisurely or flexible experience, other options might serve you better.

The Sum Up

For cruise travelers wanting to make the most of their port time, this La Spezia shore excursion delivers a solid overview of two Tuscan classics—Lucca and Pisa. The tour’s strength lies in its organized approach, with transportation and guides handling the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the sights.

While the tight schedule means less time at each location, many travelers find that the guides’ knowledge and the iconic landmarks make up for the rushed feeling. It’s especially valuable if you’re keen on seeing the Leaning Tower of Pisa and strolling the medieval streets of Lucca without stress.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate guided visits and want a cost-effective way to tick off Pisa and Lucca in a single day. Travelers who prefer a more leisurely or in-depth exploration might want to consider private options or longer tours. But if your main goal is to capture photos, see the landmarks, and enjoy a hassle-free day, this tour is a practical choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned shuttle bus from La Spezia to both Lucca and Pisa.

Do I need to pay for tickets at the landmarks?
Admission tickets to the Leaning Tower, cathedral, baptistery, and other sites are not included, so expect to pay extra if you want to go inside.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting at 9:30 AM and returning to the meeting point in La Spezia.

Can I climb the Leaning Tower?
Yes, the tower can be climbed if you pay for the entrance, but children under 8 are not allowed to enter.

What if my cruise schedule changes?
The tour operator states that if your ship’s schedule shifts, your tour might be rescheduled to match the new port or time. Always confirm with the local staff.

How many people are in the group?
The group size caps at 60 travelers, allowing for a manageable group while still maintaining a lively atmosphere.

Is WiFi available during the trip?
Yes, WiFi is provided on board, so you can share photos or stay connected during the drive.

Overall, this tour offers a well-organized way to see Lucca and Pisa, especially suited for cruise passengers eager for efficient sightseeing, with knowledgeable guides adding valuable context. Just keep in mind the limited time and plan your expectations accordingly.