Lucca and Pisa Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia

A customizable 9-hour shore excursion for the discerning traveler seeking an authentic Italian experience on a small-group tour with only the very best of English speaking driver guides. Discover Italy up-close in a Mercedes minivan for up to 8 people, comfortably taking you into the very heart of the city. Get the most of your time ashore by explore both the powerful 11th century maritime city of Pisa and the charming medieval walled town of Lucca.

Itinerary

1. Take the hour's drive to the medieval city of Lucca which is enclosed by an imposing 16th century wall. You may enjoy starting off your day with a bike ride or leisurely stroll on top of the Walls along the tree-lined promenade where you can peer down into the old city. Bike rental is an additional/optional cost at 5euro per hour. The city's Roman features include San Michele in Foro, standing on the site of the original Roman forum, the lively shopping street of Via Fillungo which leads to the Basilica of San Frediano with its 6th century origins with the tomb of of Saint Zita (1278), mentioned in Dante's Inferno. Discover the Piazza Anfiteatro, constructed in the 1st century AD under Emperor Claudius and the Cathedral of San Martino which houses the precious holy relic, the Volto Santo, as well as the remarkable marble tomb of Ilaria del Caretto. The city is filled with artisans and delicatessens offering Tuscan specialties, and Lucca is particularly renowned for its olive oil. (4h 0min)
2. In the early afternoon, take the short 30-minute drive to the 11th century powerful maritime republic of Pisa. Enjoy a driving tour of the city, which will lead you to the heart of one of the most important monuments in Italy, the breathtaking Piazza dei Miracoli with its Baptistry, the Cathedral, Campo Santo cemetery, and of course, the Leaning Tower. You are free to explore some of the city on foot before meeting up with your driver for the return journey back to your ship (2h 0min)