Private Tour from Florence Cinque Terre with Tower of Pisa

Exciting Private Day Tour from Florence to Cinque Terre and Pisa for $505

This private tour from Florence offers a full-day exploration of the stunning Cinque Terre villages and a visit to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Priced at $505.07 per person, the tour lasts about 11 hours, starting early at 8:00 am from Piazza Adua in Florence. It includes train and boat tickets, with the possibility of boat rides when available, making transportation seamless and comfortable. The experience is led by knowledgeable guides, with some reviews highlighting their attentiveness and expertise, although some note that the tour is more about transportation and sightseeing than guided commentary. This tour is ideal for those who want to see multiple coastal villages and Pisa in one day without the hassle of planning logistics.

While the long hours and hilly terrain of Cinque Terre require good shoes and energy, the tour offers a flexible, personalized way to sample Italy’s famous coastlines and landmarks. It’s particularly popular among travelers who value private experiences and the inclusion of boat and train tickets, streamlining what might otherwise be complicated travel arrangements. However, it’s important to note that lunch is not included, so bringing snacks or planning for meals is advised.

Key Points

• Private day trip from Florence, lasting approximately 11 hours
• Includes visits to Manarola, Vernazza, and Corniglia in Cinque Terre
• Train and boat tickets are part of the package, with boat rides available when conditions permit
• Ends with a stop at the Leaning Tower of Pisa for photos
• Tours typically depart at 8:00 am from Piazza Adua in Florence
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, though some reviews mention variability in experience

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Florence

The tour begins in Piazza Adua in Florence, where travelers meet their guide or driver. From there, transportation is primarily by train and boat, both of which are included in the tour price. The use of train tickets allows easy travel between villages, while boat tickets offer a scenic view of Cinque Terre when the weather permits. The tour ends back at the original meeting point in Florence, making for a straightforward day.

This setup appeals especially to those who prefer organized transportation over driving themselves, as well as those looking for a private experience with only their group participating. The most travelers book this tour about 88 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Exploring the Villages of Cinque Terre

Manarola is the first stop, where visitors admire the colored tower houses that line the coast. This village is known for its charming appearance and picturesque scenery, making it a favorite for photos. The visit typically lasts around one hour, with free time to explore.

Next, the tour continues to Vernazza, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Visitors get to explore a small fairytale bay, known for its winding alleyways and colorful houses. This stop is packed with photo opportunities and offers about two hours for sightseeing and a meal at a local restaurant—a highlight for many.

The third village is Corniglia, which is smaller and perched on a cliff. Here, travelers enjoy free time to walk along the Corso principale, sample gelato, and take in the panoramic views of the seaside. This stop is brief, about 20 minutes, but offers a chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Unique Aspects of the Cinque Terre Experience

The boat ride from Manarola to Vernazza is a particular highlight for many, providing a different perspective of the villages from the water. Though boat tickets are included, their availability depends on the weather, so flexibility may be necessary. The scenic train rides between villages are also part of the seamless journey, making it easy to cover multiple locations in a short period.

Many reviews commend the guides’ knowledge and their ability to manage the schedule, although some mention that the tour is not heavily guided in terms of commentary, with one reviewer describing it as more of a transport service with a driver rather than a guided tour. Nonetheless, personalized service and flexibility stand out, with guides often going above and beyond, such as making restaurant reservations or adjusting the schedule to suit the group.

Visiting Pisa’s Leaning Tower at the End of the Day

The final stop on this tour is at Piazza dei Miracoli to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The walk through the square allows for photo opportunities with Italy’s most famous leaning structure. The visit lasts about 40 minutes, though admission to the tower itself is not included. It’s a quick but memorable snapshot of this famous landmark, providing an ideal ending after a long day of sightseeing.

This part of the tour offers a convenient way to include Pisa in a day trip from Florence, especially for those who want to avoid the hassle of separate train tickets or long solo travel. The timing and pacing are designed so that visitors can enjoy the iconic tower and surrounding monuments without feeling rushed.

The Experience of the Guides and the Pacing of the Day

Guides, when praised, are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating, making a long day enjoyable. Some reviews mention guides like Mateo, Antonio, Benjamin, Mario, and Andrea as being engaging and attentive.

However, not every guide meets expectations; one review highlights a less engaging experience with a guide who was late and distracted, emphasizing that guide quality can vary. The flexibility of the guides to adjust schedules and accommodate special needs is often appreciated, especially by those with injuries or specific preferences.

The pacing of the tour generally balances sightseeing with free time, though it’s a long day that requires good shoes and patience due to the hilly terrain of Cinque Terre. The inclusion of transportation and tickets helps maintain a relaxed flow, avoiding the stress of organizing logistics independently.

Practical Details and Customer Support

The tour operates on a free cancellation policy, allowing cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Confirmation of booking is received at the time of reservation, with some bookings confirmed within 48 hours if made late. The activity is suitable for most travelers, and it’s described as a private experience, meaning only your group participates.

The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation in Florence, and the activity is designed to be accessible for most participants. Since the tour is weather-dependent for the boat ride, alternative plans are offered in case of poor weather.

Final Thoughts on the Florence to Cinque Terre and Pisa Tour

This private day trip provides a convenient and customizable way to see Cinque Terre’s beautiful villages and Pisa’s Leaning Tower in one day, with train and boat transportation included. The value lies in the personalized service, flexibility, and access to scenic spots that might be difficult to reach independently.

While some reviews point out variability in guide quality, many highlight guides’ friendliness and expertise, often going above and beyond to make the experience memorable. The long hours and physical demands are considerations, but for those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free day trip, this tour offers a well-organized and enjoyable option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You have free time to eat at local restaurants or bring snacks for the day.

What transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes train tickets for moving between villages and boat tickets when the boat ride is available, making travel smooth and scenic.

How long do stops last at each location?
Manarola is visited for about one hour, Vernazza for around two hours, Corniglia for 20 minutes, and Pisa for 40 minutes.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves hill walks and long hours, so it’s best suited for those who can handle some walking and standing. Physical requirements depend on individual mobility.

Can I customize the schedule or stops?
Since it’s a private tour, guides can often adjust the schedule to fit your needs, but all stops listed are part of the standard itinerary.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
Guides primarily assist with transportation, ticketing, and local knowledge. Some reviews praise guides for their expertise and friendliness.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Are the boat and train tickets included?
Yes, train tickets are included, and boat tickets are included when available.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, water, snacks, and layers for changing weather are recommended. Since lunch is not included, plan accordingly.

Who provides this tour?
The experience is operated by Tuscansafari Srl, known for organizing personalized tours in Italy.