PRIVATE Full-Day Pisa and Lucca GUIDED Tour from Florence

Discover Pisa and Lucca in a Full-Day Private Guided Tour from Florence

This private full-day tour from Florence offers an intimate exploration of two of Tuscany’s most captivating towns: Pisa and Lucca. Priced at $979.54 per person, the tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including transportation in a luxurious Mercedes Benz minivan and expert guiding. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed day outside Florence, with the chance to see the famous Leaning Tower and the beautifully preserved medieval streets of Lucca.

Starting at 9:00 am with hotel pickup, this tour combines cultural highlights with flexibility, as admission tickets are free at key stops. While the visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa can be upgraded with a ticket reservation (costing €18 per person), the tour itself remains accessible and engaging for most travelers. This experience is particularly well-suited for visitors wanting a private, guided day that balances sightseeing, history, and scenic views.

Key Points

• Private guided experience in a Mercedes Benz minivan ensures comfort and personalized attention
• Visits to Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli including the Duomo, Baptistery, and Leaning Tower
• Exploration of Lucca’s medieval streets and Renaissance walls, including landmarks like Piazza Anfiteatro and Torre Guinigi
• Stops for sightseeing and optional activities such as climbing Torre Guinigi or walking Lucca’s extensive walls
• Tour duration of approximately 9 hours, with a flexible itinerary and free admission at most stops
• Expert guides provide detailed insights into Tuscan history and architecture

Excursion to Pisa: The Piazza dei Miracoli and the Leaning Tower

The tour begins with a comfortable drive from Florence to Pisa that takes about one hour. Upon arrival, a knowledgeable guide leads the group through the historic suburbs toward Piazza dei Miracoli. This iconic square is home to Pisa’s most famous monuments, including the Duomo, Baptistery, and, of course, the Leaning Tower. The open-air setting features perfectly manicured grass that enhances the grandeur of the monuments, a sight that remains timeless despite the crowds.

The Leaning Tower is a highlight, with the guide sharing stories about its construction and tilt. Visitors often enjoy taking photos that play with perspectives, making the tower appear to stand upright. About an hour is dedicated to this stop, which is free to enter, although the option to reserve a ticket for the tower exists at an additional cost, but children under 8 are not allowed.

Exploring Pisa’s Historic City Walls and Main Monuments

After admiring the Leaning Tower, the group passes through one of Pisa’s gates in the medieval city walls. The guide walks with travelers as they explore the monumental area, emphasizing the rich architectural history. This part of the tour allows visitors to appreciate the city’s defensive structures and medieval layout, giving context to Pisa’s historical importance.

The guide’s storytelling makes this segment engaging, sharing insights into Pisa’s past and its role on the Via Francigena route. The free admission to these sites allows for an unhurried visit, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and absorb the atmosphere of this historic city.

Transition to Lucca: Medieval Charm and Renaissance Walls

The journey continues with a short drive to Lucca, a town famous for its well-preserved Renaissance-era walls and medieval streets. The scenic ride offers a chance to get a glimpse of the Tuscany countryside. Once in Lucca, the guide leads the group into the elliptical city walls, which can be walked or cycled on top, providing spectacular views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Inside, the streets exude a relaxed, timeless atmosphere with charming piazzas and alleys. The guide highlights Lucca’s significance on the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route, adding historical depth to the visit.

Piazza Anfiteatro: Roman Foundations and Vibrant Atmosphere

A key stop is Piazza Anfiteatro, built on the remains of a Roman amphitheater. This vibrant square features medieval architecture and offers a lively setting with many restaurants and cafes. Visitors can enjoy a brief walk around, taking in the unique oval shape and historic charm. This stop also offers a perfect opportunity for lunch, with numerous options nearby, though lunch expenses are not included in the tour price.

Climbing Torre Guinigi and Panoramic Views

One of the most memorable parts of the visit is Torre Guinigi, known for its hanging garden at the top. The guide assists with climbing the tower, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of Lucca and the lush countryside. The climb typically takes about 30 minutes, and while admission is not included, the view from the top offers a rewarding perspective of the city’s Renaissance rooftops.

Discovering Lucca’s Religious Heritage: San Michele in Foro and San Martino

The tour includes visits to two significant churches in Lucca. First, San Michele in Foro, a basilica dating back to the year 1000, features priceless works of art and a large marble statue depicting Archangel Michael defeating a dragon. This church reflects Lucca’s religious and artistic history.

Next, the Duomo di San Martino serves as the spiritual heart of Lucca. Founded in the sixth century, it’s a key stop on the Via Francigena route. Inside, visitors find historic artifacts and a sense of medieval religious devotion. The free admission allows for a quiet moment of reflection amid the stunning architecture.

Walking or Biking the Walls of Lucca

The tour concludes with a stroll or bike ride along Lucca’s walls, which encircle the city. This experience offers a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery and see the city from above. The 30-minute walk or bike ride on top of the walls provides fantastic views and is a favorite among visitors for its peaceful ambiance.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

Starting at 9:00 am, the tour includes hotel pickup at the address provided at booking. The private transfer ensures comfort and allows for flexibility in stops and timing. The guided experience is led by expert guides who share curiosities and facts about Tuscany, making the tour both educational and engaging.

Most stops feature free admission, but some, like Torre Guinigi, are not included in the price. The lunch break at Piazza Anfiteatro is optional and not covered, offering flexibility based on your preferences. In case of rain, umbrellas are provided by the driver, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Final Thoughts on the Full-Day Pisa and Lucca Guided Tour

This private tour offers a well-organized and intimate way to explore two of Tuscany’s most beloved towns. The expert guides, comfortable transportation, and carefully curated stops make it an attractive option for those wanting a comprehensive day outside Florence.

The main highlights, including the Leaning Tower and Lucca’s Renaissance walls, are covered effortlessly, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops and learning. The tour’s flexibility and small-group atmosphere create a relaxed and personalized experience.

While the admission to the Tower of Pisa is an additional expense, the overall value lies in the expert narration and seamless logistics. This tour is especially suited for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those seeking a curated, private experience in Tuscany.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The guided tour, transportation, and most stops with free admission are included. The visit to the Pisa Tower requires a separate ticket (costing €18) if desired.

How long is the drive from Florence to Pisa?
The drive takes approximately one hour each way.

Can I climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
Climbing the tower is possible if reserved 7 days in advance at an extra cost of €18 per person. Children under 8 are not allowed to climb.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but stops at Piazza Anfiteatro provide options for dining.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 7 travelers, ensuring a private and personalized experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking or climbing. In case of rain, umbrellas are provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children under 8 are not permitted to climb the Pisa Tower.

Can the pickup time be changed?
Yes, pickup times can be adjusted upon request.

How do I confirm my booking?
A confirmation is appreciated the day before, sent via email, iMessage, or WhatsApp.

What if I need to cancel?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start.