La Spezia Shore Excursion

This La Spezia shore trip visits the Tuscan towns of Lucca and Pisa which are both relatively close to La Spezia. It's a nice option for those people who have already been to Florence and want to see more Tuscan towns.

After meeting your driver guide, you drive to the walled Tuscan town of Lucca, which has lots of lovely narrow, medieval streets to explore. Your tour leader will explain the top sites but you decide how to spend your time. The city has some wonderful examples of Roman, medieval and Renaissance architecture and some grand churches, including the Duomo di San Martino, which contains the Volto Santo (Holy Face), a wooden figure of Christ, whose face is considered to be a true likeness of the face of Christ. It was carved by Nicodemus, who was present at the crucifixion.

While in Lucca, you should visit the Renaissance walls and ramparts. Today they are a beautiful public walkway popular with tourists and locals alike. You may choose to visit one of Lucca's grand villas or the birthplace of operatic composer, Giacomo Puccini. The home contains a museum which houses precious relics and memorabilia including drafts, scores, photos, letters, honors, and paintings.

After exploring, you have free time to enjoy lunch (meal not included) in one of the caf̩s or pizzerias in town.

Later this afternoon you drive to Pisa to visit the Piazza dei Miracoli or Field of Miracles. This pedestrian area is one of the finest architectural ensembles in the world, including the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Duomo (cathedral), a Romanesque masterpiece dating back to the 11th century. If you are looking for a last minute souvenir or an afternoon Italian ice cream, you can also find it here.

At the end of the day, you are brought back to the pier in La Spezia.
Mobility: Folding wheelchairs OK, some sites may be inaccessible (advance notice required)