La Spezia Shore Excursion: Carrara Marble Quarries & Lardo di Colonnata Tasting 🏔️🥓

Duration: 6 to 7 hours ⏱️
Pickup: Port of La Spezia 🚢
Private Tour – Fully Guided – Optional 4×4 Experience 🚙

Why Visit This Region? 🌄🍷

Northern Tuscany and southern Liguria meet in a dramatic landscape of rugged mountains, marble cliffs, and medieval villages. The Apuan Alps have supplied the world with Carrara marble for over 2,000 years—used by artists from Michelangelo to Canova. Just a short drive from the cruise port of La Spezia, this area offers a rare opportunity to combine cultural heritage, stunning alpine views, and unforgettable flavors.

This is the perfect shore excursion from La Spezia if you are seeking a blend of natural beauty, history, and Italian culinary excellence. Whether you are passionate about art, geology, or gastronomy, the Carrara Marble Quarries and the ancient village of Colonnata offer something truly unique. It’s a hidden gem that few cruise passengers experience—and one that will leave a lasting impression.

Tour Highlights 🌟

• 🚗 Scenic drive from La Spezia to the Apuan Alps
• 🏛️ Visit active Carrara marble quarries (underground and open-air)
• 🚙 Optional 4×4 off-road experience in the mountains
• 🥓 Taste the famous Lardo di Colonnata in its birthplace
• 🏘️ Opportunity to visit Pietrasanta or a local winery in Luni
• 📸 Perfect for photography lovers and culture seekers
• 🎯 Ideal for cruise guests looking for an authentic off-the-beaten-path tour

Itinerary 📅

08:30 – Pickup at La Spezia Cruise Terminal 🚢
Meet your private driver-guide at the port. Depart for Carrara, about 45 minutes away.

09:15 – Scenic Ascent to the Quarries 🏞️
Enjoy breathtaking views as you drive up into the Apuan Alps, reaching the historic marble quarries.

10:15 – Guided Visit of the Marble Quarries 🪨
Join a professional quarry guide and visit both open-air and underground marble sites. Learn about extraction methods, from Roman times to modern techniques. Optional upgrade to a 4×4 jeep tour inside the quarry.

11:15 – Tasting in Colonnata 🍽️
Arrive in the village of Colonnata and taste the iconic Lardo di Colonnata IGP—served on warm bread or as part of a traditional snack.

12:00 – Optional Add-On Experience ➕

• 🎨 Visit the artistic town of Pietrasanta, known for sculpture ateliers and marble studios, or
• 🍷 Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery in the Luni region (Vermentino and more)

13:30 – Return to La Spezia 🔁
Arrive back at the port in time for your ship’s departure.

What’s Included ✅

• 🚐 Private transportation in a modern minivan or 4×4 vehicle
• 👨‍🏫 English-speaking local guide
• 🎟️ Entry to marble quarries
• 🥓 Lardo di Colonnata tasting

Not Included ❌

• 🍝 Lunch (optional add-on)
• 🍷 Wine tasting (optional add-on)
• 💶 Tips and personal expenses

Good to Know ℹ️

• 👟 Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing
• 🌦️ The tour operates in all weather conditions
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Fully customizable for small groups or families
• 📍 Great for travelers interested in geology, Italian food, and cultural heritage
• 🔎 Keywords: La Spezia shore excursion, Carrara marble tour, Lardo di Colonnata tasting, Tuscany food tour, Apuan Alps, private guided tour, day trip from cruise ship

Book Now 📩

Ready to experience the magic of the marble mountains and the flavor of Tuscany’s most iconic cured meat? This unforgettable shore excursion from La Spezia will elevate your cruise stop into an extraordinary Italian memory.
Contact Emilia Delizia to book your shore excursion today