Shore excursion to Florence and pisa from the port of La Spezia

A well-organized private tour from La Spezia, this 8-hour shore excursion offers a smooth blend of history, architecture, and breathtaking sights in Pisa and Florence. Priced at $1,143.67 per group (up to 8 people), it provides a personalized experience with private transportation, WiFi on board, and air-conditioned vehicles. The tour departs from the La Spezia Cruise Terminal at 9:00 am, making it a convenient option for cruise passengers eager to explore these famous Italian cities.

The trip is designed for those who value comfort, flexibility, and quality sightseeing. While the day can get quite hot—especially in June, as one review notes—the expert driver and Gabriele Benedetti, the tour provider, aim to make your journey as pleasant as possible. This private tour is best suited for small groups wanting an intimate, flexible way to see Pisa’s Leaning Tower and the highlights of Florence, from the Piazzale Michelangelo to Piazza della Signoria.

Key Points

• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility during the 8-hour trip.
• Stops in Pisa and Florence include key sights like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazzale Michelangelo, and Piazza della Signoria.
• Ideal for small groups (up to 8 people) seeking a personalized experience.
• Tour duration is approximately 8 hours, with a 9:00 am start from La Spezia.
• Sightseeing is free at major landmarks, with about 1 hour at Pisa and 3 hours in Florence.
• Tour provider Gabriele Benedetti and WiFi on board enhance the experience.

Tour Starting Point and Logistics

This private tour begins at the La Spezia Cruise Terminal—specifically at Largo Michele Fiorillo—and ends back at the same point. The driver will meet your group with a sign bearing your name, ensuring a smooth start. The 8-hour schedule allows ample time for sightseeing without feeling rushed, and the WiFi on board keeps you connected throughout the day.

The tour is scheduled to begin at 9:00 am, with early bookings averaging 30 days in advance. This timing is perfect for cruise passengers aiming to maximize their limited time ashore while avoiding the hassle of independent transport.

Exploring Pisa’s Top Sights

The first stop is Pisa, where the focus is on its famous Piazza dei Miracoli. You get approximately 1 hour to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa, where many take photographs leaning against the tower or marveling at its tilt. The nearby Piazza dei Cavalieri offers a glimpse of Palazzo dei Cavalieri di Santo Stefano, a historic building, along with the clock tower and church of Santo Stefano.

While the visit is brief, it covers the city’s highlights efficiently, avoiding the fatigue of a long walk. The free admission at these landmarks means your focus can be on enjoying the views and snapping photos.

Scenic Transfer to Florence and the Viewpoints

Following Pisa, the drive to Florence takes about one and a half hours. Upon arrival, the first stop is Piazzale Michelangelo, a cliffside square renowned for offering the best panoramic view over the city. This vantage point provides stunning photo opportunities of Florence’s skyline, including the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Palazzo Pitti.

This stop offers a relaxing moment to absorb the city’s beauty without the crowds, especially appreciated during busy seasons or hot weather. The view from Piazzale Michelangelo is one of the tour’s highlights, perfect for capturing memorable shots.

Walking Tour of Florence’s Iconic Landmarks

After the scenic overlook, the tour proceeds to the heart of Florence. The central square is within walking distance and includes visits to Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and Ponte Vecchio. The Palazzo Pitti is also accessible nearby, offering additional options if time permits.

The 3 hours in Florence allow visitors to explore these famous sites at a leisurely pace. The guided walk ensures you see the key architectural and artistic highlights, with most landmarks free to admire from the outside. Visitors can choose to enjoy some shopping or lunch in the area, making this a flexible part of the day.

Practical Considerations and Comfort

While the tour is praised for its smooth logistics and personalized nature, a review notes that hot weather—up to 108°F (42°C) in June—can make sightseeing more challenging. The air-conditioned vehicle helps, but travelers should be prepared for the heat, especially during summer months. The small group size enhances comfort and allows for more tailored attention from the guide.

Service animals are allowed, and the tour is accessible for most travelers. The private nature of the tour means your group can adjust pacing slightly if needed, within the scheduled timeframe.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The private transportation with WiFi and air conditioning is included, creating a comfortable environment for the day. Meals are not included, so it’s advisable to plan for lunch during the free time in Florence or bring snacks. Admission tickets for major sites are not included but are free for the landmarks involved, such as the Piazza dei Miracoli and Piazza della Signoria.

The flexibility of the tour allows for a personalized experience, but it’s essential to manage expectations regarding the brief time at each site—particularly Pisa, where you only get about an hour.

The Experience Provider and Review Highlights

Gabriele Benedetti leads the tour, with a reputation for professionalism and consideration for guests. One review highlights the host’s efforts to make the experience enjoyable despite extreme heat, emphasizing the personalized service.

The tour’s rating of 5/5 is based on a single review praising its wonderful experience. The only noted challenge is the hot weather, which affects sightseeing comfort but is not a reflection of the tour’s organization or quality.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private shore excursion suits cruise passengers or small groups looking for convenient, guided visits to Pisa and Florence. It’s ideal for those who prefer comfort, flexible timing, and personalized attention. The tour offers a rundown of both cities’ highlights without the need for independent planning or navigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable during summer heat?
While the tour takes place in hot weather—up to 108°F in June— the air-conditioned vehicle and early start help mitigate the heat, but travelers should prepare accordingly.

How long is the drive between Pisa and Florence?
The transfer from Pisa to Florence takes about 1.5 hours by private vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey with WiFi provided onboard.

Can I visit the inside of the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
The tour includes a stop near the tower, but tickets are free, and there is about 1 hour for sightseeing. It does not specify entry to the tower itself, so internal visits may require separate tickets.

Is this tour accessible for most travelers?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and minimal physical requirements. The small group size allows for flexibility.

What is included in the tour price?
Private transportation, WiFi onboard, and air-conditioned vehicle are included. Meals and site admission tickets are not included but are generally free at the landmarks visited.

This private La Spezia shore excursion strikes a fine balance between comfort, scenic views, and efficient sightseeing. It’s perfect for those who want to see Pisa’s iconic tower and the best sights of Florence without rushing or dealing with large crowds. Just remember to stay hydrated and be prepared for the weather—it’s all part of the adventure.