La Spezia to Pisa & Lucca: Family-Friendly Shore Excursion Itinerary

Docking in La Spezia gives you the perfect chance to see two of Tuscany’s most charming gems—Pisa and Lucca—without the stress of crowded trains or buses. With a private driver and guide, a family can be whisked straight from the port, making it a smooth, kid-friendly adventure.

First stop: Pisa

Your driver will bring you right to the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the world-famous Leaning Tower. Kids love seeing how it “really leans,” and this open square has plenty of space to run around while you snap the classic family photo of “holding it up.” Beyond the tower, the cathedral and baptistery are also worth a quick peek inside if time allows. This is an easy, low-effort stop that gives kids a big “wow” moment.

Streets of Lucca, credit Tom Podmore

Second stop: Lucca

After Pisa, head to Lucca, a walled medieval town that’s one of Tuscany’s most family-friendly spots. The city walls are flat and wide, and locals treat them like a giant park. Your guide will arrange a family bike rental, perfect for all ages—kids can ride in seats or on smaller bikes while parents pedal alongside. It’s an unforgettable way to explore the town together.

While biking or strolling through Lucca, don’t miss the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. Once a Roman amphitheater, today it’s a lively oval-shaped piazza ringed with cafés, shops, and gelaterias. Kids will love the open space to run around while parents can soak up the history and atmosphere of this unique square.

Piazza del Giglio, Lucca. Credit: Sterling Lanier

Lunch break

For something casual and delicious, stop at Alice Pizza right in Lucca’s center. It’s quick, affordable, and great for kids—slices are cut to order, so everyone can pick their favorite flavor without the wait of a sit-down restaurant.

Shopping in Lucca

Lucca is also a wonderful place for a little shopping. Many stores here sell beautiful olive wood serving pieces—think cutting boards, salad bowls, and spoons. They make practical, lightweight souvenirs that you’ll actually use at home and will remind you of your day in Tuscany.

St. Martin Bell Tower, Lucca

Return to La Spezia

After a relaxed afternoon in Lucca, your driver will bring you back to the port with time to spare before your ship departs. Pisa gives you the iconic “bucket list” moment, and Lucca delivers charm, history, space for the kids to play, and great food—making this the ideal balance for families.

• Timing: The drive from La Spezia to Pisa takes about an hour, and another 30 minutes to reach Lucca.

• Tickets: If you’d like to climb the Leaning Tower, tickets must be reserved in advance and are best suited for older kids (ages 8 and up). Younger kids may enjoy exploring the grassy piazza instead.

• Biking in Lucca: Family bikes are easy to rent right near the walls, and there are options with child seats or smaller bikes so everyone can join in. Helmets for kids are usually available—ask when renting.

• Food and snacks: While Alice Pizza is a favorite, Lucca also has gelato shops everywhere—perfect for an afternoon treat before heading back to the ship.

• Shopping: Olive wood pieces are easy to pack and lightweight, but note that many shops also sell local food specialties like biscotti and Tuscan olive oil—just check your cruise line’s rules on bringing food items onboard.

• Weather: Summers can be hot; bring hats, sunscreen, and water, especially for the kids. In cooler months, pack a light jacket as it can be breezy on the walls of Lucca.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.