Pisa, Lucca, and Lunch at a Tuscan Winery from La Spezia

Exploring Pisa, Lucca, and a Tuscan Winery from La Spezia: An Honest Review

If you’re cruising through the Ligurian coast and want a taste of Tuscany without spending your entire day on the road, this tour offers a charming blend of iconic sights, authentic towns, and delicious wine. While it’s a short and sweet adventure—roughly 8 to 9 hours—it packs in enough to satisfy lovers of culture, history, and good food alike.

What makes it stand out? First, the convenience of private transportation, meaning you avoid confusing bus schedules and parking hassles. Second, the balance of brief sightseeing stops coupled with deeper exploration in towns like Lucca. And third, the delicious, homemade Tuscan lunch paired with wines that truly taste of the region.

A potential caveat? The limited time at Pisa might feel rushed if you’re eager to climb the Leaning Tower or explore more thoroughly. This tour is best suited for those who want a quick, curated experience rather than a deep dive into each location. If you’re active, curious about local wines, and appreciate ease and comfort, this trip hits many marks.

Good To Know

• Comfortable private transport means no stress navigating unfamiliar roads or parking.
• Balanced itinerary provides a taste of Pisa, Lucca, and a Tuscan winery in one day.
• Authentic wine and food experience at a family-run farm with homemade dishes.
• Flexible options for sightseeing, with the chance to rent bikes around Lucca’s walls.
• Expert driver and guide commentary enriches your understanding, even if they stay in the vehicle.
• Great value for a full-day experience that includes scenic countryside, historic towns, and farm-fresh cuisine.

Introduction: A Short but Sweet Tuscan Escape

This tour from La Spezia offers a perfect snapshot of Tuscany’s most beloved spots—without the hassle of organizing multiple transfers or long drives. We love that it combines iconic sights with authentic local flavor in a manageable day, especially suited for travelers with limited time but big curiosity.

What really draws us in? The short drive to Pisa, which includes dropping you right at the Campo dei Miracoli—saving precious time and energy. The three hours in Lucca provide ample opportunity to wander, enjoy gelato, or bike along the ancient walls. And the lunch and wine tasting at a family estate promises a genuine taste of Tuscan hospitality.

One thing to consider? The short window in Pisa might not be enough for those wanting to climb the Leaning Tower or explore the interior of monuments. But, if you’re happy with photos and a quick look, it’s an efficient way to tick this off your list. This trip is ideal for families, active adults, or anyone wanting a relaxed, guided introduction to Tuscany.

The Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: The Leaning Tower of Pisa

The journey begins with a roughly one-hour drive from La Spezia, and your driver will drop you off right at the Campo dei Miracoli. This is a real convenience, especially considering how busy Pisa parking can be. Once there, you’ll have around 30 minutes to enjoy the sights from outside—perfect for snapping photos of the Leaning Tower, the cathedral, baptistery, and monumental cemetery.

While there’s no fee to admire the exterior, if you want to go inside or climb the tower, you’ll need to coordinate with your guide (who may help you plan that). Many reviewers appreciated the quick stop, noting that even just a few photos feel sufficient for a quick memory. As Victoria_G put it, “Pisa and Lucca were beautiful,” and the visit was “great for photos.”

Given the brief stop, don’t expect to explore inside the monuments, but that makes it ideal if you want a fast, hassle-free glimpse of Pisa’s most famous landmark.

Stop 2: The Walled City of Lucca

Next, you’ll enjoy a rough 20-minute drive into the charming town of Lucca. Here, the impressive city walls—still intact and transformed into a pedestrian walkway—are a highlight. Many visitors, like Matt_W, describe Lucca as “beautiful,” with “so much to see and do.”

During your three hours in Lucca, you can walk or rent bikes to circle the walls, providing fantastic views and a sense of the city’s ancient character. You might also explore Piazza dell’Amphiteatro, built on a Roman stadium, or visit Palazzo Pfanner, known for its beautiful garden and historic charm.

Reviewers often mention how easy it is to spend time here at a relaxed pace, enjoying the boutique shops and local cafes. The city’s elegant architecture and lively atmosphere make it a favorite among active travelers. Plus, the gelato? Top-notch, and perfect to cool down after wandering around.

Stop 3: The Family-Run Winery in Montecarlo di Lucca

After experiencing Lucca’s timeless beauty, you’ll head into the countryside for about 25 minutes to Fattoria Carmignani. This small, family-owned winery offers a genuine taste of Tuscany’s wine and food culture.

The winery tour includes a brief look at the estate, where you’ll understand a bit about their grape-growing and wine-making process. The highlight? A homemade, hearty lunch paired with 6-8 local wines. The meal features antipasto (local cured meats, cheeses, and toasted bread), a seasonal pasta or rice dish, fresh fruit, and dessert.

Reviewers like Victoria_G praised the “lovely family winery,” noting the olive oil was amazing. The unpretentious, home-style meal stands out compared to more commercial tastings, offering a clear taste of genuine Tuscan hospitality.

Lunchtime costs are paid directly at the winery—adults roughly €55, children less. This pay-as-you-go style is typical for wine country tours, allowing flexibility in your dining choices.

What This Tour Means for Your Experience

Transportation & Comfort

The private, air-conditioned vehicle is a big plus, especially in summer heat or if you’re traveling with family or a group. It means you’re not sharing with strangers, and your driver, who provides commentary en route, adds local insights without taking up your sightseeing time.

Timing & Pacing

Covering Pisa, Lucca, and a winery in one day is ambitious, but the schedule is designed to be manageable and flexible. The key is the short stops, which leave room for exploration without feeling rushed. If you’re a photo enthusiast, the quick photo stops in Pisa and the leisurely walk around Lucca should satisfy your curiosity.

Group Size & Personal Touch

Since this is a private tour, your experience is tailored to your group. It’s ideal if you want a more intimate adventure or specific questions answered during the drive. The reviews highlight Nica, the guide, as “friendly, knowledgeable,” making the day all the more enjoyable.

Value for Money

At approximately $558 per person, this tour offers a full day of sightseeing, local food, and wine, all with the convenience of private transport. When you factor in the ease of planning and insider access—like dropping right at Pisa’s landmarks—many find it a worthwhile investment. Plus, the experience at the winery feels authentic, adding a layer of local flavor to your trip.

Authenticity & Insider Tips

Reviewers like Victoria_G and Matt_W appreciated the genuine atmosphere at the winery, describing it as “lovely family-run” and “authentic.” The guide’s commentary, although limited to the drive, enhances your understanding and appreciation of Tuscany’s landscape and culture.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a balanced, stress-free day that combines must-see sights with authentic local experiences. It’s especially suited for families, active adults, or those short on time but eager to see Tuscany’s highlights. The private setup, coupled with knowledgeable guides, ensures a more personalized experience, making it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a curated taste of Tuscany.

If you love the idea of snapping photos of iconic landmarks, wandering historic streets, and sampling regional wines, this tour delivers all of that in a well-organized package. For those who want a deeper experience, it’s worth considering the optional interior visits at Pisa or extending your time in Lucca independently.

Ultimately, this journey captures the essence of Tuscany’s charm—beautiful towns, striking scenery, and hearty food and wine—all in a well-paced, comfortable day.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides private, air-conditioned transportation with pickup at La Spezia Cruise Terminal.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive from La Spezia to Pisa takes about an hour, and from Pisa to Lucca is roughly 20 minutes. The countryside drive to the winery is about 25 minutes.

Can I climb the Leaning Tower?
Climbing the tower is possible but must be coordinated with the guide beforehand, as it’s not included in the free sightseeing stop.

How much time do I get in Pisa?
You’ll have approximately 30 minutes to view the exterior of the monuments and take photos.

What is the duration of the Lucca visit?
You’ll have around three hours to explore, walk along the walls, and enjoy the town’s atmosphere.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is paid separately at the winery, with prices around €55 for adults. It includes a hearty, homemade meal with multiple wine pairings.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome, and minors can join the winery lunch. The tour is suitable for families.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for Lucca’s cobblestone streets and walls.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The short walks and private transport make it accessible, but some walking on uneven surfaces may be necessary.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour offers a thoughtful blend of culture, scenery, and flavor—perfect for those wanting to sample Tuscany’s best without a long, tiring day. Whether you’re snapping photos of Pisa’s iconic tower, wandering Lucca’s historic streets, or sipping wine at a family estate, it’s a memorable way to experience Italy’s enchanting region.