Full-Day Private Pisa and Lucca Tour from Florence

A full-day private tour from Florence to the twin gems of Pisa and Lucca offers an excellent way to explore Tuscany’s most iconic sights. Priced at $456.30 per person, this approximately 8-hour experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and seamless. The tour features visits to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery, along with free time to enjoy the sights independently. Then, it continues to Lucca, a city renowned for its medieval walls, Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, and Guinigi Tower with its rooftop garden.

This tour suits travelers who want a flexible, private experience delivered with a comfortable Mercedes vehicle and a knowledgeable driver-guide. While this is not a guided tour in the traditional sense, the driver provides practical assistance and local insights. A key strength is the flexibility in Pisa, giving you ample time to admire the architecture and take photos. However, it’s important to note that entrance fees and lunch are at your own expense, and some reviews point out that once in Pisa and Lucca, you are on your own.

Key Points

• Private transportation in a luxury Mercedes vehicle with a driver-guide
• Visit Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, including the Leaning Tower and Pisa Cathedral
• Free time in Pisa to explore, shop, or relax
• Explore Lucca’s city walls, Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, and Guinigi Tower with rooftop garden
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included from Florence
• Cost is $456.30 per person, with group discounts available

From Florence to Pisa in Comfort and Style

This tour begins with hotel pickup in Florence in the early morning, giving you a smooth start to your day. Traveling in a Mercedes luxury vehicle, your driver guides you through the scenic countryside of Tuscany, with views of vineyards and hilltop towns along the way. The drive takes roughly one hour to reach Pisa, setting the tone for a relaxed yet efficient journey.

The private nature of the tour ensures you avoid the crowds and wait times, with the flexibility to customize your time at each stop. The driver acts as both chauffeur and local helper, providing useful tips and quick assistance when needed.

Uncover the Wonders of Piazza dei Miracoli

Once in Pisa, your driver drops you off just outside Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll find the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Monumental Cemetery. The bright white buildings contrast beautifully with the green lawns, creating a picture-perfect setting. You receive about two hours to explore independently, which is enough time to admire the architecture, take photos, and perhaps grab a cappuccino at a nearby cafe.

The Cathedral of Pisa stands out as a lesser-known treasure, showcasing Romanesque architecture with its intricate marble facade and inside, frescoes by Cimabue, a Pisan pulpit, and golden ceilings. Entry to the Cathedral is free, offering a chance to see some of Pisa’s architectural and artistic highlights up close.

Climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower remains the ultimate photo spot. Visitors can climb to the top if they wish, enjoying a panoramic view of Pisa from above. While the entry fee is not included in this tour, the experience of ascending the world-famous tower makes for unforgettable photos and memories. The climb takes around 20 minutes, and the breeze from the top offers a refreshing pause.

Time in Pisa for Personal Exploration

After taking in the sights, there’s time to stroll along the Arno River, indulge in some shopping, or relax at a cafe. This free period provides flexibility, allowing visitors to tailor their experience based on interests and pace. The driver is available to pick up at any time and location within Pisa, providing convenience.

Discovering Lucca’s Medieval Charm

After leaving Pisa, the journey continues to Lucca, arriving in about 30 minutes. This town has a distinctive charm, especially due to its well-preserved medieval walls. These ramparts now serve as a scenic walkway or bike path, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

In Lucca, the main sights include Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a circular square that was once an ancient amphitheatre. The vibrant square today hosts shops and restaurants, making it a lively center for your exploration. You also find Via Fillungo, a bustling street lined with eateries where you can enjoy local Tuscan cuisine or shop for souvenirs.

Climb the Guinigi Tower for Panoramic Views

A highlight of Lucca is the Guinigi Tower, distinguished by its rooftop garden filled with oak trees. Climbing to the top provides spectacular views over the city and beyond, offering a unique perspective on Lucca’s medieval layout. The tower is part of the city’s Romanesque-Gothic architecture and reflects the town’s historical importance.

Exploring Lucca at Your Own Pace

The two hours allocated in Lucca give ample time to walk along the historic city walls, visit churches, or relax in a café. The lively Piazza dell’Anfiteatro remains a favorite spot for its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere. The driver remains available for pickup at any preferred location within Lucca, ensuring a relaxed departure.

Return Journey to Florence

The return drive to Florence lasts about two hours, with the luxury Mercedes vehicle providing comfort and Wi-Fi for the journey. The tour concludes with hotel drop-off in Florence, making the experience seamless from start to finish.

Practical Details and Considerations

This tour operates from 9:00 am, and booking well in advance is recommended, with an average reservation time of 66 days. The group is limited to eight people, preserving intimacy and flexibility.

While entrance fees and meals are not included, bottled water and Wi-Fi are provided during the day. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, though some walking is involved in Lucca.

What Sets This Tour Apart

What makes this day trip stand out is the private transportation combined with freedom to explore each city at your own pace. The driver-guide offers practical assistance and local insights, but you are free to wander and take photos without a guided tour’s constraints.

The flexibility in Pisa, especially in the amount of free time, is appreciated by many travelers, though some reviews note that once you are in Pisa or Lucca, you are on your own—no guided commentary during independent explorations.

An Honest Look at the Limitations

One common critique is that the tour is technically not a guided tour—there is no narrative provided during your free time, and entrance fees for attractions like the Leaning Tower are not included. For those wanting a fully guided experience with detailed commentary, this may be a limitation.

However, for travelers seeking comfort, flexibility, and the chance to see Pisa and Lucca independently, this tour offers excellent value. It combines the ease of private transport with the freedom to tailor your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a guided tour of Pisa and Lucca?
No, this tour provides private transportation and a driver-guide. You have free time in Pisa and Lucca to explore at your own pace.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, luxury Mercedes transportation, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and free time in both cities.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets like the Leaning Tower are not included and must be paid separately if you choose to climb.

How long do I have in Pisa?
You get about two hours to see Piazza dei Miracoli, the Cathedral, Baptistery, and to take photos.

Can I climb the Leaning Tower?
Yes, but the ticket for climbing is at your own expense. The tour does not include the fee.

What can I do in Lucca during my free time?
You can walk along the city walls, visit Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, explore churches, or climb Guinigi Tower for panoramic views.

Is this tour suitable for families or individuals with mobility issues?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but some walking and climbing are involved, especially in Lucca.

What is the typical duration of the drive between Florence, Pisa, and Lucca?
The drive from Florence to Pisa takes about one hour, and from Pisa to Lucca about 30 minutes. Return to Florence takes approximately two hours.

How far in advance should I book this tour?
Booking about 66 days in advance is common, but availability may vary.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

This private Pisa and Lucca tour offers a practical, flexible way to see two of Tuscany’s most beloved cities without the fuss of group tours. It’s ideal for those who want comfort, independence, and the convenience of private transport, with the option to customize their experience at each stop.