La Spezia Private Shore Excursion to Pietrasanta and Carrara Marble Quarries
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is a 9-hour guided shore excursion from the port of La Spezia exploring the Carrara Marble Quarries, the sculpture town of Pietrasanta and a Colli di Luni Vermentino wine tasting 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 close-up in a Mercedes minivan of up to 7 - 8 people, taking you into the very heart of this incredible artistic area. Get the most of your time ashore to explore the chic resort and follow in the footsteps of great artists such as Michelangelo.
Available options
La Spezia Private Shore Excursion to Pietrasanta and Carrara Marble Quarries
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Driver/guide
Port pickup and drop-off
Transport by private vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Enjoy the pleasant hour's drive to Pietrasanta; an old town of Roman origins rich in sculpting traditions and filled with workshops frequented by artists from all over the world. Visit the Bozzetti Sculpture Museum and get an insight into how artists make the marble come to life in a busy working artists studio (some studios may request a small entry fee). You may enjoy an Italian coffee in the Piazza del Duomo before travelling on to Carrara.
2
Stop 2
An immense cultural and historical patrimony, these mountains were first exploited by Julius Caesar and have supplied artists from Michelangelo to Henry Moore. Choose from 2 tours. Visit the inside of a working quarry (10euro per person) where you are taken into the heart of the Apuan Alps to discover a marble cathedral carved deep inside the mountain. This is still an active quarry with working machinery and once inside you will see first-hand how marble is cut Or you may wish to join a 4x4 guided tour (10euro per person) travelling through a network of 30 open-air active quarries arriving at an altitude of almost 1000m above sea level. Here, the scenery is almost lunar with spectacular views across the sea. Your tour guide will tell you about methods and stages of excavation, from cutting to loading huge marble blocks on top of the trucks right in front of your eyes. It was here where the James Bond chase scene was filmed in Quantum of Solace.
3
The perfect stop to enjoy lunch is in quarryman's village of Colonnata, renowned for its lard cured in huge marble vats.
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
4x4 Marble Tour
Quarry Tour
Wine Tasting
Some art studios may charge a small entry fee
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Service animals allowed
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
Important notes
• At time of booking, cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time.
About La Spezia
La Spezia is a vibrant port city in northern Italy, serving as the gateway to the stunning Cinque Terre. Known for its rich maritime history, beautiful waterfront, and as a starting point for exploring the picturesque coastal villages of the Cinque Terre, La Spezia offers a blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
Top Attractions
Castello di San Giorgio
A medieval castle offering panoramic views of the city and the Gulf of La Spezia. The castle houses the Museum of Ligure Navigation.
Historical
1-2 hours
€5
Museo Civico Amedeo Lia
A museum showcasing a rich collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
Museum
1-2 hours
€7
Cinque Terre
A UNESCO World Heritage site consisting of five picturesque coastal villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Nature
Full day
Free to explore, but train and ferry tickets apply
Must-Try Local Dishes
Trofie al Pesto
A traditional Ligurian pasta dish made with trofie pasta and pesto sauce, often served with potatoes and green beans.
Main Course
Contains dairy and nuts.
Focaccia
A type of flatbread topped with olive oil, salt, and sometimes herbs or other ingredients.
Snack
Vegan options available.
Farinata
A savory chickpea pancake, similar to a thin, crispy crepe.
Snack
Vegan and gluten-free.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Cinque Terre
Kayaking in the Gulf of La Spezia
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Visiting museums
Exploring historical sites
Boat tours
Swimming
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, crowded beaches, and vibrant festivals. Ideal for beach activities and exploring the Cinque Terre.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
La Spezia is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
- • Be cautious when walking alone at night.
Getting there
By air
- Christoforo Colombo Airport • 100 km from La Spezia
By train
La Spezia Centrale
By bus
La Spezia Centrale Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in La Spezia. They are affordable and connect major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Piazza Verdi
Porto Mirabello
Day trips
Porto Venere
10 km • Half day to full day
A charming coastal town with a medieval church, colorful houses, and stunning views of the sea.
Lerici
15 km • Full day
A picturesque seaside town with a beautiful beach, historic castle, and charming streets.
Festivals
Spezia Festival • July
Cinque Terre Festival • October
Pro tips
- Purchase a Cinque Terre Card for unlimited train travel between the villages.
- Visit the Cinque Terre in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the scenery.
- Try local specialties like pesto, focaccia, and fresh seafood.
- Explore the city's historic sites, such as the Castello di San Giorgio and the Museo Civico Amedeo Lia.
- Take a boat tour to see the coastline from a different perspective.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
