Pisa Half-Day Private Shore Excursion from the Port of La Spezia

Key Points

• Private, flexible itinerary designed for cruise passengers from La Spezia
• Visit Pisa’s iconic Piazza dei Miracoli with ample time to explore the Leaning Tower and surrounding monuments
• Includes visits to local highlights like Borgo Stretto’s bakery, Keith Haring’s mural, and historic churches
• Tour duration of 4 to 5 hours with convenient pickup directly at the La Spezia cruise terminal
• Comfortable, air-conditioned private transportation with bottled water provided
• No included lunch, but options for nearby cafes and shops are available

Convenient Pickup at La Spezia Cruise Terminal

This private shore excursion departs from Largo Michele Fiorillo at the La Spezia cruise terminal, making it easy to start your exploration without extra walking. The driver offers pickup and drop-off, ensuring a smooth experience, especially after disembarking from a cruise. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and bottled water is included for refreshment during the drive.

Because this is a private tour, the itinerary remains flexible to suit your interests, whether you prefer more time at certain stops or want to skip others. The service is designed to accommodate most travelers, with most travelers able to participate and service animals allowed.

The Drive to Pisa and First Stop at Piazza dei Miracoli

The tour begins with an approximately sixty-minute scenic drive from La Spezia to Pisa. Upon arrival, the driver drops you right at the Piazza dei Miracoli, saving you about twenty minutes of walking compared to bus drop-offs.

You are given 45 minutes to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, which includes the Leaning Tower, the cathedral, baptistery, and monumental cemetery. Entry to the campus is free for viewing the exterior, but if you wish to enter monuments or climb the Leaning Tower, coordination with the guide is needed to fit this into your schedule.

This stop offers a balance of stunning architecture and photo opportunities, with time sufficient to admire the famous leaning structure and the surrounding masterpieces.

Exploring Borgo Stretto and Tasting Pastries

Next, the tour leads to Borgo Stretto, a narrow, historic street near the Leaning Tower. Here, you find a mix of shops and a notable bakery, Pasticceria Salza. Inside, the luxurious surroundings recall a past era, and outside, the terrace gives you a chance to enjoy a pastry and beverage in the fresh air.

The bakery is renowned for its gorgeous pastries, cakes, bonbons, and sandwiches, making it an ideal spot for a sweet break. If shopping appeals more than snacking, the tour can be customized to visit Corso Italia, Pisa’s main shopping street instead.

This stop typically lasts around 30 minutes, offering a cozy, relaxed moment amid the city’s lively streets.

Admiring Keith Haring’s “Tuttomondo” Mural

A highlight of this tour is the 15-minute visit to Keith Haring’s “Tuttomondo” mural. Located on an exterior wall of the Church of Sant’Antonio Abate, this vibrant, large-scale artwork was created in 1989 and embodies themes of harmony and peace.

This mural was a significant project for Haring, who considered it one of his most important works. It features thirty figures outlined in black, painted with bright colors to symbolize unity. The mural’s creation came about after a chance meeting in New York, highlighting the connection between Pisa and the artist.

This stop offers a lasting visual impression and a chance to appreciate contemporary art in a historic city setting.

Visiting Santa Maria della Spina and San Michele degli Scalzi Churches

Next, the tour stops at Santa Maria della Spina, a small Gothic church perched at the edge of the Arno River. Built in 1230 and expanded about a century later, the church’s name refers to a relic of a thorn from Christ’s crown.

Shortly after, you visit San Michele degli Scalzi, a Romanesque church built in the 12th century. Its leaning bell tower is a notable feature, matching the Leaning Tower’s tilt but without crowds. Both churches are free to enter, allowing for quick yet meaningful visits to two of Pisa’s architectural treasures.

These stops demonstrate Pisa’s diverse ecclesiastical architecture and its historical significance.

Scenic Drive Along the Arno and Final Return

The last scenic segment involves a short 10-minute drive along the Arno River, offering views of Pisa’s beautiful riverbanks and historic waterfront. This allows for a relaxing overview of the city’s charming landscape before heading back to La Spezia.

The return drive lasts about 60 minutes, giving you time to reflect on the highlights of your half-day exploration before arriving back at the cruise terminal.

Tour Features and Practical Details

This private tour includes an English-speaking driver who provides commentary during the drive, enhancing your understanding of Pisa’s sights. The private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility, and bottled water is provided to keep you refreshed.

While lunch is not included in the package, nearby cafes and bakeries offer opportunities for a casual meal or snack. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals permitted and near public transportation options.

The entire experience lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it ideal for cruise passengers who want a comprehensive yet manageable overview of Pisa’s highlights.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The main advantage of this private half-day excursion is its flexibility and direct pickup at the La Spezia cruise terminal. The driver acts as a guide, offering insightful commentary on the city’s history and art, especially at notable stops like the Tuttomondo mural.

The balanced itinerary combines must-see landmarks with charming local spots, like the bakery and historic churches. The short duration makes it a perfect option for a cruise day, especially if time in port is limited.

A key highlight is the opportunity to climb the Leaning Tower—though this requires advance coordination—adding a memorable experience to the visit.

Summary of the Tour’s Strengths and Limitations

This private Pisa tour from La Spezia offers a personalized and comfortable way to see the city’s most iconic sights. The scenic drive, easy access to Piazza dei Miracoli, and cultural stops like the Keith Haring mural ensure a well-rounded experience in a short time.

The flexibility of the itinerary allows for tailored experiences, whether you prefer more sightseeing or relaxing moments at cafes. The no-lunch policy means you’ll need to plan for a snack or meal afterward if desired.

The main limitation is the short duration—with only 45 minutes at Piazza dei Miracoli and 15 minutes at the mural, some may wish for more time at specific stops, especially if planning to enter the monuments.

Visiting Pisa with this Private Shore Excursion

This tour provides a convenient and insightful way to explore Pisa’s highlights during a cruise stop from La Spezia. Its comfort, flexibility, and knowledgeable driver make it a reliable choice if you want to maximize your limited port time.

While it doesn’t include lunch, the proximity to local bakeries and shops offers ample options for a quick meal or snack. The guided commentary during the drive enriches the experience, especially for those new to Pisa’s architecture and art.

This private, 4-5 hour tour delivers a balanced mix of iconic sights and charming local features tailored for cruise passengers seeking an efficient yet meaningful visit to Pisa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking driver, bottled water, and pickup/drop-off at La Spezia cruise terminal. Entry to the sites is free, but monument entry and climbing the Leaning Tower require coordination.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours, including driving, sightseeing, and breaks.

Can I climb the Leaning Tower?
Yes, you can climb the Leaning Tower if you coordinate the timing with the tour provider beforehand. Otherwise, you can enjoy viewing the tower from outside.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. There are nearby cafes, bakeries, and shops where you can purchase treats or a quick meal.

What stops are on the itinerary?
Stops include Piazza dei Miracoli, Borgo Stretto, Keith Haring’s Tuttomondo mural, Santa Maria della Spina, San Michele degli Scalzi, and a scenic drive along the Arno River.

What is the vehicle like?
The vehicle is air-conditioned and designed for comfort, suitable for most travelers.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is accessible for most travelers, including those with service animals. The walking involved is minimal, but some stops may require brief walking or standing.

How flexible is the itinerary?
As a private tour, the itinerary is flexible to match your interests or time constraints.

What if I need assistance during the tour?
The driver provides commentary during the drive, but on-foot guidance is not included. The tour is designed for a personalized experience.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be confirmed within 48 hours, subject to availability. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time.