From La Spezia: Pisa, with optional Leaning Tower and Jewel of the Cinque Terre

Travelers seeking a full-day excursion from La Spezia to explore iconic Italian sights will find this Pisa and Cinque Terre tour offers a balanced mix of cultural highlights and scenic village charm. Priced at $77.96 per person and lasting approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, this tour is ideal for those who want a structured visit with options to customize their experience. With mobile ticketing and a local expert tour leader, it promises both convenience and insight. Although the tour tends to fill up well in advance—128 days on average—it also has some limitations, including a strict schedule and certain stops that may not suit all travelers. Still, for lovers of history, architecture, and authentic Italian scenery, it provides a compelling way to see Pisa’s famous landmarks and the picturesque village of Manarola.

Key Points

• Visit Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli with free time to explore its famous monuments.
• Optional climb of the Leaning Tower of Pisa with priority access for ticket holders.
• Discover the Piazza di Pisa with a guided walk through the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Camposanto.
• Enjoy a scenic transfer to Manarola in the Cinque Terre, with free time to relax or take photos.
• Includes WiFi on the bus, a comfortable coach, and a local guide who shares insightful commentary.
• No included drinks or meals, and children under 8 cannot climb the Tower.

Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli and Its Architectural Marvels

The tour begins with a visit to Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, the city’s most celebrated square. You get about 3 hours here, during which you can admire the Leaning Tower, the majestic Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the Camposanto. The piazza is renowned for its stunning collection of medieval architecture, and the green lawns underneath provide an ideal spot for photos or just relaxing under the shade of the historic monuments.

For those who choose the option with the Leaning Tower entrance, they can climb this iconic structure known for its nearly four-degree lean. This climb lasts about 40 minutes, but note that children under 8 are not permitted to enter the tower due to safety reasons. The priority access for ticket holders makes this an efficient way to experience one of Italy’s most recognizable landmarks without lengthy waits.

Exploring Pisa’s Historic Cathedral and Baptistery

Following the piazza exploration, the tour includes a 20-minute visit to the Duomo di Pisa, the city’s historic cathedral, and a 10-minute stop at the Battistero di San Giovanni, Italy’s largest baptistery. These structures, built between the 11th and 14th centuries, showcase Romanesque and Gothic architecture. While admission tickets are not included, the guided commentary helps visitors appreciate the significance of each site.

The Camposanto, a monumental cemetery, also forms part of the sightseeing, where legend humorously claims bodies buried in its ground rot within 24 hours. This site provides a glimpse into Pisa’s medieval heritage and its artistic treasures.

The Practicalities of the Tour Logistics

This tour departs from Largo Michele Fiorillo in La Spezia at 9:30 a.m. and features a comfortable GT coach equipped with air conditioning and free WiFi. The group size is capped at 60 travelers, ensuring a manageable and engaging experience. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes early, as late arrivals forfeit their spot without refund.

The journey to Pisa takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, setting a steady pace that balances sightseeing with travel. Once in Pisa, the bus remains parked at the same location, simplifying the return process. After leaving Pisa, the tour continues to Manarola, one of the Cinque Terre’s smallest villages, where you get about 2 hours to soak in the scenery, explore local shops, or relax by the water.

Discovering Manarola: The Jewel of the Cinque Terre

Arriving in Manarola, travelers find a charming fishing village known for its colorful houses and stunning coastline. Here, the focus is on free time to take photos, enjoy local products, or relax by the Mediterranean Sea. The tour does not include guided walks within Manarola, but its UNESCO heritage site status guarantees memorable views and a chance to experience authentic local life.

The return to La Spezia is arranged at the same parking lot, ensuring a straightforward end to the day’s adventure. The entire experience is designed for convenience, with the aim of fitting in Pisa’s highlights and a taste of Cinque Terre’s beauty within a single day.

The Cost and Additional Inclusions

The $77.96 price covers transportation, the local expert tour leader, and amenities like free WiFi on the bus. Travelers can also opt to add the Leaning Tower entrance ticket or a guided walk with a local guide, enhancing the experience. A free map of Pisa is provided to aid exploration during free time.

Limitations and Considerations

While this tour offers a solid overview of Pisa and Manarola, some reviews mention disorganization during the initial group division or last-minute changes to the itinerary. Last-minute substitutions, such as replacing the original Cinque Terre tour with Florence and Pisa, have occurred, with some travelers expressing disappointment. The schedule is strict, and the return time to the ship is guaranteed, but flexibility is limited.

The tour is not recommended for children under 8 to climb the tower, and meals and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to dine locally is advisable.

Final Thoughts on the Pisa and Cinque Terre Tour

This tour provides a comprehensive look at Pisa’s most famous sights complemented by free time in Manarola for experiencing a true Cinque Terre village. The expert guidance and well-organized transportation help visitors maximize their day, despite some reported issues with timing and last-minute itinerary changes.

It suits visitors who value cultural landmarks and scenic coastal villages in a structured, guided format. Those who prefer more flexible or in-depth exploration may find the limited free time and schedule constraints challenging. The tour offers a practical way to see two of Italy’s most famous locations in one day, with the added bonus of optional Leaning Tower access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 8 years old are not permitted to climb the Leaning Tower but can enjoy the other stops.

How much time is spent in Pisa?
You have approximately 3 hours in Pisa, which includes sightseeing, optional tower climb, and free time.

Can I visit the Leaning Tower?
Yes, if you choose the option with entrance tickets, allowing you to climb the tower with priority access.

What attractions are included in Pisa?
The Piazza dei Miracoli, Duomo, Baptistery, Camposanto, and Battistero are part of the itinerary.

How long is the bus journey from La Spezia to Pisa?
The transfer takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes each way.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

What amenities are available on the bus?
The coach provides WiFi and air conditioning for a comfortable ride.

Is the tour flexible with itinerary changes?
Recent reports mention last-minute modifications, sometimes replacing planned stops, so flexibility is limited.

What is the overall rating of this tour?
The tour has a 4.0 out of 5 rating based on 6 reviews, with some noting disorganization but others praising the guidance and scenery.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be made in advance, as the tour is often booked 128 days ahead on average.