Private Tour: Lucca and Pisa with Typical Pastry Tasting

Discover Pisa and Lucca in a Private Day Tour from Florence

This full-day private tour offers a seamless journey through two of Tuscany’s most charming towns: Pisa and Lucca. For $637.27 per person, travelers enjoy approximately 8 hours of expert-guided exploration, with hotel pickup in Florence included. The tour features a local guide in Pisa who leads a walking tour of the city’s famous sights, such as the Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli, while in Lucca, visitors get to stroll around 16th-century walls and the lively Piazza Anfiteatro.

A standout feature is the typical pastry tasting in Lucca, offering an authentic taste of local sweets. Travelers can also choose to upgrade their experience with a 2-course lunch in Pisa, which includes wine, water, dessert, and coffee. The tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to Florence, making it a convenient way to see two iconic towns without the hassle of driving or planning.

Key Points

• Private guided tour with round-trip hotel transfers in Florence
• Visit Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, Leaning Tower, and Baptistery with a local guide
• Explore Lucca’s historic walls, Piazza Anfiteatro, and Duomo di San Martino
• Optional 2-course lunch in Pisa with drinks and desserts
• Taste a traditional local pastry in Lucca (not available Mondays)
• Average booking 32 days in advance, reflecting high demand

Starting with the Highlights of Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli

The tour begins with a luxurious private transfer from your Florence hotel, taking you through the scenic Tuscan countryside to Pisa. Upon arrival, a local expert guide leads a walking tour of Piazza dei Miracoli, the city’s most iconic square. You’ll see the white-marble Cathedral constructed in the 11th century, a fine example of Pisan Romanesque architecture, and the Baptistery with its columned arcades.

No visit is complete without a stop at the Leaning Tower of Pisa. This world-famous structure is known for its unintended tilt, and standing next to it gives a true sense of its grandeur and unique character. The guide shares stories about its construction and the ongoing efforts to preserve it, making for compelling photo moments. During this part of the tour, visitors also have the option to purchase priority access tickets to inside the Baptistery, allowing a closer look at its stunning interior.

Exploring Pisa’s World-Famous Landmarks and Historic Sites

Beyond the terraced crowds at the Leaning Tower, the tour takes visitors past the medieval Cathedral and the Battistero di San Giovanni, a round-shaped baptistery surrounded by elegant columns. While admission to these sites is not included, the guide provides context and can arrange priority tickets for those interested.

This exploration provides insight into Pisa’s architectural beauty and historical significance. Travelers get a thorough outdoor tour of the square, with plenty of time for photos and questions. The 45-minute walk is paced comfortably, allowing appreciation without feeling rushed.

Lucca’s City Walls and Piazza Anfiteatro

After exploring Pisa, the journey continues to Lucca, famous for its 16th-century city walls. Once in Lucca, visitors are given free time to walk along these well-preserved ramparts that encircle the town. The walls offer fantastic views of the rooftops and the surrounding countryside.

Next, the guide points out notable sights like Torre Guinigi—a tower topped with a small garden—and the Duomo di San Martino. The Piazza Anfiteatro is a highlight, with its oval shape and lively atmosphere, perfect for strolling and soaking in the local ambiance. Visitors can also enjoy a sweet stop at a historic downtown café, tasting a typical local pastry (note that this tasting is not available on Mondays).

Authentic Pastry Tasting in Lucca’s Historic Center

One of the tour’s most cherished moments is the pastry tasting at a historic café in Lucca. The tasting offers a chance to indulge in local sweets, showcasing the town’s culinary tradition. This is especially appreciated for those seeking an authentic taste of Tuscany beyond sightseeing.

The pastry tasting is included in the standard tour price, adding a flavorful break during the exploration of Lucca’s charming streets. It provides a delicious and leisurely pause, allowing travelers to enjoy a taste of local culture.

Optional 2-Course Lunch in Pisa

Travelers have the option to upgrade their experience by adding a 2-course lunch in Pisa, located just a few steps from the Leaning Tower. The restaurant serves traditional dishes, and the meal includes a glass of wine, water, dessert, and coffee. This upgrade is a popular choice for those wanting a sit-down meal with authentic flavors.

If not upgrading, there is also the flexibility to eat independently at your own expense, either in Pisa or Lucca, giving some freedom to explore local eateries.

Comfort and Convenience of the Transport and Guide Service

The tour features deluxe, air-conditioned transportation with Wi-Fi onboard, enhancing comfort during the transfers between Florence, Pisa, and Lucca. The private guide in Pisa is an English-speaking expert who tailors the tour based on your interests, ensuring a personalized experience.

The driver and guide are praised for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge, making the day both informative and enjoyable. The pick-up and drop-off at centrally located Florence hotels provide added convenience, especially for those wanting a hassle-free day.

Timing, Pacing, and Accessibility

The tour departs at 8:30 am, allowing ample time to explore both towns at a relaxed pace. Stops in Pisa and Lucca are around 45 minutes to 1 hour each, with additional free time in Lucca to explore further or enjoy the pastry tasting.

The tour is suitable for most travelers due to the mostly flat terrain in both towns. The physical requirements are minimal, with walking on paved surfaces and manageable distances. Note that pastry tasting is not available on Mondays, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private tour appeals most to those who value personalized attention and a flexible itinerary. It’s ideal for travelers wanting to see Pisa’s iconic monuments and Lucca’s historic charm in one day, with the option to enjoy local culinary delights. The upgradable lunch adds value for food lovers, while the private guide ensures a tailored, engaging experience.

While the price point is higher than group tours, the comfort, customization, and included tastings make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a more intimate exploration of Tuscany’s treasures.

Final Thoughts on the Pisa and Lucca Private Tour

This 8-hour private experience offers a practical and enjoyable way to visit two of Tuscany’s most beloved towns. The expert guides in Pisa and Lucca excel at sharing insights and stories, making history come alive without overwhelming. Visitors benefit from convenient hotel pickups, smooth transportation, and personalized service.

The pastry tasting adds a memorable flavor of local culture, and the optional lunch provides a satisfying meal in Pisa. Although admission to some sites is not included, the guided outdoor tours supply plenty of context and photo opportunities.

This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate flexibility and personalized service, and for anyone eager to see Pisa’s architectural marvels and stroll around Lucca’s historic streets comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at centrally located Florence hotels are included.

Can I include a meal on this tour?
Yes, you can upgrade your ticket to include a 2-course lunch in Pisa, with wine, water, dessert, and coffee.

Is the pastry tasting available every day?
No, the pastry tasting is not available on Mondays.

How long are the stops in Pisa and Lucca?
Stops in each town typically last around 45 minutes to 1 hour, allowing time for sightseeing and free exploration.

What sites are covered in Pisa’s guided tour?
You’ll see Piazza dei Miracoli, the Leaning Tower, Baptistery, and medieval Cathedral.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for sites like the Cathedral and Baptistery are not included, but optional tickets can be purchased for priority access.

Is this tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
Yes, as both towns are relatively flat and accessible, making it suitable for most travelers including children.

What makes this tour stand out from similar excursions?
The private guide, customizable itinerary, pastry tasting, and optional lunch set this tour apart, offering a more personalized experience than standard group trips.