Discover Lucca and Pisa and Enjoy Buccellato Cake: Full Day Tour

Discover Florence’s Nearby Treasures: Pisa and Lucca with a Tasty Buccellato Cake

This full-day tour from Florence offers a seamless way to explore two captivating Tuscan towns—Pisa and Lucca—without the hassle of planning transportation or guides yourself. Priced at $177.11 per person, the tour delivers approximately 9 to 10 hours of sightseeing, guided exploration, and local delicacies. With a convenient meeting point at Piazzale Montelungo in Florence at 9:00 am, it suits travelers eager to maximize their day with minimal planning effort.

While Florence remains the highlight of Tuscany for many, this tour emphasizes the charm of nearby medieval cities. It includes the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazza dei Miracoli, Lucca’s ancient city walls, and the picturesque streets surrounding Piazza Anfiteatro. One of the distinct features is the Buccellato cake tasting, a traditional Lucchese pastry that’s considered a must-try for anyone visiting Lucca. The tour’s structure ensures a balanced experience of historical sites, local culture, and culinary treats, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day trip.

Key Points

• Includes round-trip transportation from Florence to Pisa and Lucca, avoiding the need for separate travel arrangements.
• Guided tours of key sights in Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli and Lucca’s old town, with expert guides.
• Entry to the Leaning Tower of Pisa is included, making it easier to access this iconic monument.
• Free time after Pisa’s guided tour to take photos, shop, or relax with a coffee.
• A Buccellato cake tasting in Lucca to experience a local delicacy.
• Group size limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Logistics: From Florence to Pisa and Lucca

The tour begins at Piazzale Montelungo in Florence at 9:00 am. It features round-trip transportation, so travelers can relax and enjoy the scenery without concern about navigation or parking. The group size is capped at 20 people, supporting a more personal atmosphere. The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point, making it easy to plan the rest of your day.

Visiting Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli and the Leaning Tower

The first stop is Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, where a professional guide leads an engaging walking tour of the cathedral, Baptistery, and Monumental Cemetery. This hour-long tour is free of charge but includes the admission to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, allowing visitors inside the tower itself for an up-close view of its famous tilt.

Following the guided tour, travelers have about an hour and a half of free time. This window provides ample opportunity for taking photos of the Leaning Tower, browsing souvenirs, or grabbing a quick cappuccino. The guide ensures everyone has enough time to enjoy the iconic site without feeling rushed.

Exploring Lucca’s Historic Walls and Streets

After Pisa, the tour continues to Lucca, a town renowned for its well-preserved medieval walls. A local guide leads a 1 hour and 30-minute walk through the city’s old town center, with a part of the walk along the historic city walls offering panoramic views of Lucca’s rooftops and charming streets.

Lucca’s main attractions include Piazza Anfiteatro, Guinigi Tower, and San Martino Cathedral. The area is filled with antique shops and streets that reflect its vibrant history. The guide highlights the unique architectural features and stories behind each site, making the walk both informative and scenic.

Architectural Highlights and Iconic Sights in Lucca

The walk along Lucca’s city walls offers stunning panoramic views, providing a rare perspective on the town’s layout and medieval ramparts. The visit to Piazza Anfiteatro reveals a lively square built on the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater, now lined with cafes and shops. The Guinigi Tower, known for its rooftop garden with oak trees, offers a picturesque photo opportunity.

The San Martino Cathedral stands out with its Romanesque architecture and historical significance. The guide shares insights into Lucca’s architectural heritage and the stories behind these landmarks, enriching the visual experience.

Tasting Tradition: Buccellato Cake in Lucca

The final highlight of the tour is the Buccellato tasting, a traditional Lucchese cake that locals highly prize. As the saying goes, “Those who come to Lucca without eating the Buccellato are as if they had never been there,” making this culinary stop a key part of the experience.

The hour-long ending segment allows visitors to savor this sweet treat, which features a rich, aromatic flavor typical of Lucca’s pastry traditions. It’s a perfect way to end the day, blending food with cultural insight.

Ease of Booking and Flexibility

The tour is available for most travelers, with confirmation upon booking. It is suitable for those with mobility as service animals are allowed and the tour involves walking on paved streets and city walls. For last-minute bookings made less than 12 hours before departure, reservations cannot be guaranteed, so early booking is recommended.

The tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans. The mobile ticket makes check-in straightforward, and the tour’s 9 to 10 hours duration offers a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour appeals to travelers who want a guided, all-in-one day trip from Florence, especially those interested in medieval architecture, famous landmarks, and local cuisine. The mix of guided walking tours, free time at Pisa, and a culinary experience makes it suitable for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and food lovers alike.

While some reviews point out issues with guiding—such as language barriers or the initial escort—many appreciate the knowledgeable local guides and the smooth logistics. The small group size enhances the experience, ensuring personalized attention and relaxed pacing.

Final Thoughts on the Lucca and Pisa Full-Day Tour

This $177.11 tour offers a comprehensive look at two of Tuscany’s most charming towns, with guided visits, easy transportation, and a delicious Buccellato cake finale. It’s especially well-suited for those who prefer a stress-free day that covers key sights and local flavors in a single trip.

While it may not be the best choice for those seeking independent exploration or in-depth guided storytelling, the combination of monument access, panoramic views, and culinary treats provides a satisfying experience. For travelers wanting a well-organized, cultural taste of Tuscany, this tour is a reliable choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Florence to Pisa and Lucca is included, making it easy to focus on the sights.

What landmarks are visited during the tour?
The tour covers Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, Leaning Tower, Lucca’s city walls, Piazza Anfiteatro, Guinigi Tower, and San Martino Cathedral.

Are entry tickets to Pisa’s Leaning Tower included?
Yes, admission to the Leaning Tower of Pisa is included, allowing visitors inside for photos and observation.

How long is the free time in Pisa?
You have approximately an hour and a half for independent exploration, photos, or souvenirs after the guided tour.

What is the duration of the visit in Lucca?
A guided walk in Lucca lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with additional time for the Buccellato tasting.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
Most of the walking involves paved streets and city walls, and service animals are allowed, making it reasonably accessible.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What makes this tour stand out?
The inclusion of guided visits, access to the Leaning Tower, and the culinary Buccellato tasting set it apart as a well-rounded day trip.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits groups to 20 travelers, supporting a more personal experience.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is organized by Italy Adventures.