From Milan: Discover Florence & Pisa on an Exciting Full-Day Tour

A 15-hour full-day tour from Milan to Florence and Pisa offers an exciting way to see two of Italy’s most famous cities without the hassle of planning transportation and tickets. Priced at $196.64 per person, this tour includes train travel, a bilingual tour leader, and visits to iconic sites like Piazza Santa Croce in Florence and Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa. The tour is best suited for those with a good level of physical fitness due to its fast pace and significant distances in both cities.

While the itinerary promises a comprehensive experience, recent reviews reveal some variability in execution. The tour’s biggest strengths are the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see major landmarks in one day. However, disruptions like train cancellations have affected some travelers’ experiences. Those willing to accept a demanding schedule will find this tour provides a practical way to visit Florence and Pisa in just a day.

Key Points

• Price is approximately $196.64 per person for a 15-hour full-day trip.
• The tour departs from Milano Terrazza Gallia at 7:00 am and includes train travel between cities.
• Stops include Florence’s Piazza Santa Croce, Piazza del Duomo, and Piazza della Signoria, with free time to explore.
• In Pisa, travelers visit the Piazza dei Miracoli and the Leaning Tower, with additional free time.
• The tour features live bilingual commentary and audio guides (if selected), led by a professional tour leader.
• The experience has a max group size of 30 travelers, emphasizing a personal touch.
• Recent reviews highlight some scheduling issues with train cancellations, causing delays and limited time.
• This tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues due to its demanding pace.

From Milan to Florence: The Journey Begins

The tour departs early from Milano Terrazza Gallia at 7:00 am, setting out on a 15-hour adventure. The transportation from Milan to Florence is by train, which allows for a quick, scenic crossing of northern Italy. A bilingual tour leader accompanies travelers, offering commentary in English and Spanish, making the experience engaging and informative.

The group size is limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention. The tour provides audio guides in Florence if the option is chosen, which enhances the experience with additional historical insights. Travelers should be prepared for a tight schedule and significant walking in both cities.

Exploring Florence’s Historic Squares and Architectural Marvels

The first stop in Florence is Piazza Santa Croce, home to the Basilica di Santa Croce. This Gothic church is notable for being the burial site of Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Niccolò Machiavelli, and Dante Alighieri. The admission is free, and visitors get about 10 minutes to admire the architecture and pay respects at this historic site.

Next, the tour moves to Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Florence. Here, travelers can stroll around and see Giotto’s Campanile and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with its famous red-tiled dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. The square offers an hour of free time, giving a chance to take photos, explore nearby shops, or just absorb the lively atmosphere.

The guide then leads the group over the Vecchio Bridge, known for its jewelers and goldsmiths shops built directly on the bridge. This area tells stories of Florence’s commerce history, with tents suspended over the river and supported by columns, adding a picturesque element to the walk.

Highlights of Florence’s Main Landmarks and Artistic Treasures

Travelers get a chance to see the spectacular 15th-century Dominican church, adorned with frescoes by Gothic and early Renaissance masters. The Piazza della Signoria is the political hub, featuring the Old Palace and lively social scenes. It’s a perfect spot to appreciate Florence’s civic history and architecture.

The Duomo, or Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, is the tour’s highlight in Florence. Its famous dome by Brunelleschi is considered an architectural masterpiece of the Renaissance. The marble façade and Giotto’s bell tower complete the skyline, offering a chance for photos and admiration.

Traveling from Florence to Pisa: The Iconic Piazza dei Miracoli

After exploring Florence, the group heads toward Pisa for the afternoon segment. The journey includes a stop at Piazza dei Miracoli, a sprawling square with lush green areas and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The free time here lasts about an hour, during which travelers can take pictures, enjoy the view, or marvel at the majestic cathedral.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta stands at the center of the square. This medieval Catholic cathedral is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin and features beautiful marble bands that make this site one of Italy’s iconic landmarks.

The Practicalities of the Pisa Visit

The Leaning Tower is the highlight of Pisa’s piazza, renowned for its tilt that started in the 12th century and continued in the opposite direction over time. Visitors get a chance to enjoy the unique architecture and funny photo opportunities. The tour emphasizes flexibility, allowing free time to take selfies or explore the surrounding area.

Logistics and Group Experience

The tour includes live commentary during the train ride, making the long journey informative and engaging. The tour leader provides guidance throughout, and audio guides are available in Florence if selected, provided the traveler downloads the necessary app and brings headphones.

The entire experience is designed for practicality, with transportation covered from the start in Milan to the end return. However, recent reviews point out train cancellations and delays, which have affected some participants’ timing and overall satisfaction. It’s important to note that the itinerary order may change based on seasonal factors and logistical considerations.

Physical Demands and Accessibility

Given the fast-paced nature of the tour and the distances covered within each city, this experience is not suitable for travelers with mobility problems. The itinerary involves a good amount of walking, and participants should be prepared for a demanding pace. The tour is ideal for those who enjoy sightseeing at a brisk rhythm and are comfortable with long hours on their feet.

Cost and Booking Details

At $196.64 per person, the tour offers a cost-effective way to see Florence and Pisa in one day, including train travel and guided commentary. It’s recommended to book about 50 days in advance, as the tour is popular. The meeting point in Milan is at Piazza Duca d’Aosta near public transportation, with the activity starting early at 7:00 am.

Travelers should be aware that the tour is non-refundable once booked due to train ticket purchases, but cancellations more than a week in advance can be discussed with the provider. Children under 11 must use their own baby car seats, as the company does not supply them.

Recent Feedback and Considerations

While many find the tour efficient and enjoyable, some reviews highlight disruptions like train strikes that caused delays and limited sightseeing time. One reviewer mentions a stressful day due to ticket issues, and another reports missing the Pisa tour entirely because of cancellations. Conversely, a traveler praises the guide’s explanations and the view from the Pisa Tower.

Travelers should weigh the tight schedule and potential for disruptions against the opportunity to visit two cities in one day. Being flexible and prepared for changes can help maximize the experience.

Final Thoughts on the Florence & Pisa Full-Day Tour

This tour provides a practical and accessible way to see Florence’s architectural icons and Pisa’s famous square in just one day. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy fast-paced sightseeing and want a guided experience with minimal planning. The inclusion of live commentary and free time in each city adds value, but recent logistical issues remind travelers to stay flexible and patient.

While the cost is reasonable for a day full of major sights, the limited time in each location and potential delays mean this tour appeals most to those who don’t mind a demanding schedule. For a smoother experience, checking recent reviews and preparing for possible disruptions enhances the chances of a memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, train travel from Milan to Florence and Pisa is included, along with transportation back to Milan.

What landmarks will I see in Florence?
You will visit Piazza Santa Croce, Piazza del Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, and see the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with its famous dome.

How much free time do I get in Pisa?
You have approximately an hour to explore Piazza dei Miracoli, take photos, and enjoy the iconic Leaning Tower.

Are audio guides available?
Yes, audio guides in Florence are available if the option is selected and the app is downloaded prior to the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It is not recommended for travelers with mobility problems due to the demanding pace and extensive walking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat or sunglasses for sun protection, and headphones if using the audio guide option.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
The tour is non-refundable once booked, but cancellations more than a week in advance can be discussed with the provider.

What happens if the train is canceled?
Recent reviews indicate train cancellations can cause delays and reduce sightseeing time; travelers should be prepared for possible schedule adjustments.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done with advanced notice, ideally about 51 days in advance, through the provider’s official channels.

What makes this tour stand out?
The convenience of visiting Florence and Pisa in one day with guided commentary and the opportunity to see major landmarks makes it a practical choice for short trips.

This From Milan: Discover Florence & Pisa tour offers a compact, guided day trip to two of Italy’s most visited cities, balancing sightseeing with practicality. While it has its limitations, especially regarding timing and logistical disruptions, it remains a solid option for those eager to pack in highlights and experience Italy’s artistic and architectural treasures in a single day.