Marble quarries Carrara shared tour

Tour Type

, ,

Boat

Timings

3 hours 30 minutes

Max People

7

Explore the Peaks with our Carrara Marble Quarries Shared Tour

Discover the breathtaking majesty of the Apuan Alps with our signature Carrara marble quarries shared tour. The experience begins at our designated meeting points in Marina di Massa, La Spezia, or Forte dei Marmi, where you will join a small group of fellow travelers in an elegant Mercedes V-Class Minivan.

As we leave the coast behind, the road winds upward like a snake, offering panoramic views before crossing the legendary Ponti di Vara. These monumental bridges, alongside the evocative tunnels carved into the solid rock, were once the heart of the Ferrovia Marmifera, the historic railway that transformed the marble industry forever.

Step Inside the Majestic Cathedral of Marble

The core of this Carrara marble quarries shared tour takes you straight into the mining heartland to visit a spectacular closed quarry known as the Cathedral of Marble. During this guided shared session of approximately one hour, expert guides will explain the intricate extraction techniques and the deep history of this precious white stone.

You will have the unique opportunity to stand where Michelangelo once searched for the perfect block for his Pietà. A true highlight is the "Creation of Adam" by international artist Ozmo—an imposing 160-square-meter mural that towers in the center of the gallery, merging ancient stone with contemporary artistic vision.

Price

85.00 €

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Price

85.00 €
15.00 €
Pick-up from Forte dei Marmi  ( Croce verde)  Via Risorgimento, 1, 55042 Forte dei Marmi (LU)
45.00 €
Pick-up from La Spezia Centrale train station or Terminal Cruise

Terms and conditions

A Cultural and Sensory Journey through Carrara’s White Gold

Joining our Carrara marble quarries shared tour is the perfect way to experience the grandeur of the Tuscan mountains without the need for a private vehicle. Starting from your choice of Marina di Massa, La Spezia, or Forte dei Marmi, we take care of every detail, ensuring a professional and comfortable ascent into the rugged terrain of the marble basins. This journey is designed for travelers who want to savor the true essence of Italian craftsmanship. As we navigate the historic routes of the Ferrovia Marmifera, you will feel the weight of centuries of labor and art. The engineering marvel of the Ponti di Vara serves as a perfect introduction to the scale of the industrial landscape that has defined Carrara since the Roman era.

History and Art within the Apuan Mountains

The visit to the Cathedral of Marble is a moment of pure wonder. Unlike typical outdoor viewpoints, this Carrara marble quarries shared tour brings you deep inside the mountain itself. The vast, cool chambers of the gallery provide a church-like atmosphere where the history of extraction comes to life. Your guide will detail the evolution of machinery, from manual saws to modern technology, while you admire the staggering Ozmo masterpiece. Seeing the “Creation of Adam” rendered on such a massive scale within the very rock that birthed the Renaissance is an unforgettable experience that bridges the gap between the 15th century and today’s global art scene.

The Flavors of Colonnata: Tradition in Every Bite

After the technical and artistic discovery of the quarries, we shift our focus to the culinary heritage of the region. We head to the village of Colonnata, the oldest and most atmospheric settlement in the marble basins. Here, the narrow, ancient streets tell stories of the “cavatori” (quarrymen) who shaped this land. This Carrara marble quarries shared tour includes a dedicated gastronomic immersion into the world of Lardo di Colonnata. This unique delicacy is still aged in marble basins, seasoned with local herbs and sea salt, following traditions passed down through generations.

You will enjoy a traditional tasting that features the famous Lardo alongside other local cured meats and artisanal cheeses. The experience is made complete with Sgabei—the delicious local fried bread—and a selection of fine local wines. This is more than just a snack; it is a cultural ritual that allowed the quarry workers to sustain their grueling labor. By sharing this meal in the heart of the village, you connect with the authentic soul of Carrara. As we return to your starting point, you will carry with you not just photos, but a deep understanding of how marble has dictated the art, the food, and the very life of this extraordinary corner of Italy.

Your Questions on the Carrara Marble Quarries Shared Tour

Where is the exact meeting point for this tour?

The Carrara marble quarries shared tour departs from our designated meeting points in Marina di Massa (Via Casola 1), La Spezia (Centrale Station or Cruise Terminal), and Forte dei Marmi (Via Risorgimento 1). We ask all guests to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure to ensure a smooth boarding process onto our Mercedes V-Class Minivan.

What should I bring for the visit to the Cathedral of Marble?

Since the Carrara marble quarries shared tour includes a visit inside a gallery, we recommend bringing a light sweater or jacket, as the temperature inside the Cathedral of Marble is constant and cooler than outside. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the historic streets of the village of Colonnata and the quarry surfaces safely.

Is the tasting in Colonnata suitable for all guests?

The tasting is a highlight of the Carrara marble quarries shared tour and features local Lardo di Colonnata, cheeses, and Sgabei. If you have specific dietary restrictions or allergies, please inform us at the time of booking. We strive to accommodate all guests so everyone can assaporare the traditional flavors of the Apuan Alps in total comfort.

Headquarter

WE TOUR ITALY  Srls – Experience  Designer
Via Garosi, 46
Marina di Massa (MS)
Italy

Info & Booking

Tel. +39 0585283937
WhatsApp +39 393 8460930
Email booking@viaggidimare.it

Opening hours

Winter:
from Monday to Friday – Morning 9:30 – 12:30 Afternoon  15:30 – 19:00

Summer (from 15th of June to the  30th August):
from Monday to Saturday 9:30 – 12:30 Afternoon 16:00 – 19:30

Always available at the mobile: Whatsapp +39 393 8460930

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Company

Copyright © We Tour Italy. All Rights Reserved.
Viaggi di Mare is a brand of We Tour Italy Srls

Licenza n. 1037/2025 del 14/05/2025 – REA MS – 265669
Reg. Impr. di Massa-Carrara – P.IVA 01486360454

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CANCELLATION POLICY

Bad weather
If poor marine weather conditions prevent rhe regular running of the tours, it can be scheduled at a later date, alternatively the full amount paid will be refund
For cancellation by the customer
For cancellations up to 60 days before departure, no cancellation fee is required
From 59 to 30 days before departure cancellation fee will be 30%
From 29 to 15 days before departure cancellation fee will be 50%
For cancellation within 14 days before departure, there is no refund
In case of NON SHOW there is no refund
For cancellation by organizer the full amount paid will be refund

Sede operativa

Piazza Pellerano, 1
Marina di Massa (MS)
Italy

Info & Booking

Tel. +39 0585283937
WhatsApp +39 393 8460930
Email info@viaggidimare.it

Opening hours

Invernale: dal Lunedì al Sabato – Mattina 9:30 – 12:30 Pomeriggio 15:30 – 19:30

Estivo (dal 15 Giugno al 30 Agosto): dal Lunedì al Sabato 9:30 – 12:30 Pomeriggio 16:30 – 20:00

Domenica reperibili al numero: +39 393 8460930

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