La Spezia is a fantastic hub for lunch experiences that combine authentic Italian flavors with stunning scenery. Surrounded by the Ligurian coast and close to the Tuscan countryside, this port city offers a range of options—from savoring fresh local seafood on a boat to exploring charming villages and tasting regional wines. We especially love the Shore Trip from La Spezia: Pisa, Lucca, lunch & tasting Winery because it offers a full day of cultural sightseeing paired with a delicious winery lunch—an ideal choice if you want a taste of Tuscany along with your sightseeing.
For those who prefer a shorter, scenic escape, the La Spezia: Portovenere and islands boat trip with lunch provides an immersive day on the water, with fresh seafood and swimming stops. And if you’re interested in exploring the famous Cinque Terre villages, the From Florence: Cinque Terre Group Tour with Lunch makes it easy to see the vibrant coast in one day, complete with a seafood lunch and boat cruise. Lastly, for a relaxing day close to La Spezia, the Gulf of the Poets – Day Tour with Snorkeling & Lunch offers scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and a laid-back atmosphere.
1. Shore Trip from La Spezia: Pisa, Lucca, lunch & tasting Winery
At number 1, this shore trip is a well-rounded day for lovers of history, scenery, and good food. It begins with a visit to Pisa, where you’ll see the iconic Leaning Tower and the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli—an essential photo-op. From there, the tour moves to Lucca, known for its impressive medieval walls and charming narrow streets. What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of a wine & olive oil tasting in the Tuscan countryside, along with a delicious lunch at a winery. The food features bread with olive oil, bruschetta, prosciutto, gnocchi with pesto, and regional wines, all served with panoramic views.
The tour’s highlight is the rich blend of cultural sights and culinary delights. The guide Andrea gets high praise for being informative and personable, making history come alive without feeling rushed. The vehicle is comfortable, with charging ports, and the flexible timetable fits well with cruise schedules. Reviewers describe it as “perfect,” “delightful,” and a “honeymoon highlight,” with praise for the fresh food and beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a full day that combines sightseeing and culinary experiences in Tuscany, with excellent reviews confirming its value.
2. La Spezia: Portovenere and islands boat trip with lunch
Number 2 on our list offers a spectacular day on the water with this boat trip. It’s ideal for lovers of seafood, scenic views, and water activities. The tour features a freshly cooked lunch onboard, often with freshly caught fish, and stops at the iconic Portovenere and the Palmaria and Tino Islands.
What makes this tour special is the chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear coves, with water games suitable for both adults and children. The boat’s music and relaxed atmosphere turn the day into a true escape from the crowds. The crew is described as warm and welcoming, making everyone feel at home. The included lunch and the chance to explore multiple scenic spots and enjoy in-water activities make this an excellent value.
This tour is best suited for groups who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and coastal beauty. The reviews praise the delicious food and breathtaking landscapes, calling it an “unforgettable day.”
Bottom Line: For a laid-back, scenic day with great food and swimming, this boat trip offers a memorable experience along Liguria’s coast.
3. From Florence: Cinque Terre Group Tour with Lunch
Number 3 is perfect for travelers based in Florence who want to explore the Cinque Terre in a hassle-free day. The group tour includes a semi-private minivan ride, allowing you to avoid the hassle of driving and parking. It offers visits to all five villages, with options for hiking and a boat cruise. You’ll enjoy a seafood lunch in Monterosso, with fresh fish and regional specialties, making it an excellent way to experience local cuisine.
The tour’s highlight is the combination of scenic landscapes, colorful villages, and water activities. The boat cruise along the Italian Riviera lets you see the coast from a different perspective, with opportunities to swim in the clear waters. The group size keeps it intimate enough for personalized attention, yet big enough to feel social.
Guests praise the well-organized itinerary and delicious lunch, often calling it a “full and satisfying day.” The 12-hour duration makes it suitable for active travelers comfortable with a full schedule.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those staying in Florence who want an all-in-one day trip to see the Cinque Terre without the stress of planning.
4. Gulf of the Poets – Day Tour with Snorkeling & Lunch
Finally, the Gulf of the Poets tour offers a relaxing 5-hour escape from the city with scenic boat rides around La Spezia. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy quiet beaches, snorkeling, and local scenery without a packed schedule. The tour features visits to Lerici, Tino Island, Palmaria, and Porto Venere, with guided tours and scenic views along the way.
This tour emphasizes comfort and local expertise, with a crew that’s highly qualified. The highlight is the lunch onboard, which can include fresh seafood, paired with scenic water views. After sightseeing and snorkeling, you return relaxed and refreshed, having experienced the best of Liguria’s coast.
Guests note the high-quality service and the tranquil pace, making it suitable for couples or those seeking a laid-back day. The tour is a favorite for its scenic water cruises and snorkeling stop.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a peaceful day on the water with some snorkeling and stunning coastal scenery.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, time, and budget. If you’re looking for a full cultural and culinary immersion in Tuscany, the shore trip with winery lunch is unbeatable. For lovers of seafood and water activities, the boat trip to Portovenere offers a fun, relaxed day in scenic coves. Travelers based in Florence wanting an easy, all-in-one day tour should consider the Cinque Terre group tour. And if you prefer a quiet, scenic escape with snorkeling, the Gulf of the Poets** tour is your best bet.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure the best times and availability. Think about how much activity you want—full sightseeing, food-focused experiences, or relaxing coastal cruises—and pick the tour that fits your style.
La Spezia boasts a range of lunch experiences that blend culture, cuisine, and scenery, making it easy to tailor your day to your interests. Whether you opt for a wine tasting in Tuscany, a boat cruise along the coast, or exploring the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, there’s something for every foodie and explorer. Planning ahead ensures you get the most out of your time, so don’t hesitate to book early, especially during busy seasons.