Small Group Day Tour in Cinque Terre and Pisa From Florence

Explore Cinque Terre and Pisa in One Day for $200.25

This small-group day tour from Florence offers an efficient way to experience two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Cinque Terre and Pisa—in just 12 hours. For $200.25 per person, the tour provides round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned van, plus ferry and train tickets to move smoothly between the picturesque villages. With a maximum of 8 travelers, the group size remains intimate, allowing for personalized attention and relaxed exploration.

A key highlight is the guidance from a knowledgeable tour leader who handles ferry and train logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the sights. The tour also includes free time in each Cinque Terre village—Manarola, Vernazza, and Riomaggiore—to wander, take photos, or enjoy local food and swim in the sea. The day finishes with a drive to Pisa, where you’ll visit the famous Piazza dei Miracoli and have the opportunity to climb the Leaning Tower with tickets purchased in advance.

While the itinerary is packed, the tour’s reviews emphasize guides’ friendliness and expertise, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet manageable day trip from Florence.

Key Points

• All-inclusive transport and tickets save hours navigating public transit
• Small group size of up to 8 travelers ensures a personalized experience
• Visit three Cinque Terre villages with free time for exploration and photos
• Ferry and train rides between villages add scenic variety
• Drive to Pisa in the afternoon for a quick tour of the Piazza dei Miracoli
• Tickets to climb the Leaning Tower are optional and sold separately for €20

Convenient Transportation from Florence

The tour departs from Piazza degli Strozzi at 7:00 am in a comfortable, air-conditioned van. This private round-trip vehicle simplifies the journey, eliminating the need for individual planning. The van accommodates up to 8 guests, fostering a relaxed atmosphere, and the driver is also the guide, providing local insights along the way. The drive to Cinque Terre takes approximately 2 hours, setting the pace for a full day of sightseeing.

Discovering the Villages of Cinque Terre

The first stop is Manarola, a UNESCO heritage site renowned for its colorful houses and stunning coastal views. Here, visitors have about 1 hour and 45 minutes to stroll the narrow streets, enjoy breakfast, and soak in the scenery before traveling by ferry to Riomaggiore.

Riomaggiore features houses built on the cliff face, with a medieval castle and XIII-century church offering a glimpse into history. Its small pebble beach invites a quick swim, and the village’s vibrant facades make for memorable photos. Afterward, a train transfer takes guests to Vernazza, another historic fishing village.

Vernazza is notable for the Doria Castle overlooking the harbor and the church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia. Visitors can explore its lively main square, sample local Ligurian cuisine, and enjoy the natural harbor—ideal for a relaxed lunch break. The total time in Vernazza is about 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Traveling Between Villages by Ferry and Train

A ferry ride connects Manarola and Riomaggiore, offering scenic views of the rugged coastline—weather permitting, as ferry operations depend on sea conditions. After exploring Vernazza, guests take a train back to Manarola, where the coach awaits to depart toward Pisa. This combination of ferry, train, and van travel not only speeds up the sightseeing schedule but also adds variety to the travel experience.

The Pisa Stop: Tower and Piazza Highlights

In the afternoon, the group arrives at Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987. The complex includes the Cathedral, Baptistery, Camposanto, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Visitors are free to admire the architecture and purchase tickets to climb the tower for a small additional fee (€20), which must be booked online beforehand.

The visit to Pisa lasts about one hour, providing ample time to appreciate the famous leaning monument and the surrounding square. The drive back to Florence concludes the day, with the return trip taking roughly an hour.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $200.25 covers ferry tickets, train tickets, air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and WiFi onboard. Guests should prepare for moderate physical activity, including walking on uneven cobblestone streets and some steep inclines. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Tickets to climb the Leaning Tower are not included in the base price but can be purchased online for €20. Lunch is also not included, giving flexibility to explore local eateries independently during free time.

The Guide and Group Experience

According to reviews, guides like Emilio are praised for their politeness, knowledge, and good English skills. They expertly handle ferry and train logistics, answer questions, and share interesting facts about each location. Visitors appreciate the small group setting and how guides often help with navigating crowded areas or finding quieter spots.

Reviews highlight Emilio’s friendly demeanor, helpfulness, and professionalism, making the day enjoyable and stress-free. Guests also mention feeling well cared for, with guides providing local tips and friendly assistance, even adapting the order of visits when weather conditions change.

Timing and Weather Considerations

The ferry runs from March 23 to November 2, subject to weather conditions. When seas are rough, train transfers replace ferry rides, which the guide arranges seamlessly. The tour begins early at 7:00 am to maximize daylight and sightseeing opportunities.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Moderate physical fitness is necessary to handle walking on cobblestone streets and some steep slopes. The guide may alter the order of the villages depending on terrain conditions but guarantees visiting all scheduled locations.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This full-day guided trip suits travelers eager to see multiple seaside villages and iconic landmarks without the hassle of planning transportation. The small group size fosters a more personal experience, ideal for those who appreciate guided insights and flexible exploration time. The tour also appeals to visitors wanting to combine scenic boat rides, train trips, and cultural visits in one convenient package.

Final Thoughts on the Cinque Terre and Pisa Day Tour

This well-reviewed tour offers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing, independent exploration, and scenic travel. The expert guide and small group format ensure a comfortable and engaging experience. The inclusion of ferry, train, and vehicle transport makes it easier to cover significant ground in a single day.

While the limited time in each village means visitors should be ready for a busy pace, the free time allows for spontaneous moments and personal discovery. For those with moderate fitness levels and a desire to see both Cinque Terre’s villages and Pisa’s iconic tower, this tour represents great value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers ferry and train tickets, transportation in an air-conditioned van, bottled water, and WiFi onboard.

Can I climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
Tickets to climb the tower cost €20 and must be purchased online in advance. Climbing is not included in the base price.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Manarola, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, and Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli complex, with time for exploration and photos at each location.

Is the ferry ride weather-dependent?
Yes, ferry operation depends on sea conditions. When ferry rides are canceled, transfers are done by train, with guides adapting the schedule.

How long is the drive from Florence?
The trip from Florence to Cinque Terre takes approximately 2 hours each way, with additional time allocated for sightseeing.

Is there free time in each village?
Yes, the tour provides free time in Manarola, Vernazza, and Riomaggiore to explore independently, eat, or swim.

What kind of physical condition is needed?
Guests should have moderate fitness, comfortable shoes, and be prepared for walking on uneven and sometimes steep terrain.

What makes this tour different from other Cinque Terre trips?
This tour’s small group size, combination of ferry, train, and vehicle transportation, and expert guide make it both convenient and intimate. The focus on efficient logistics allows for visiting multiple villages and Pisa in one day.

Is this tour suitable for young children or elderly travelers?
The tour involves walking and some steep inclines, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Adaptability depends on individual mobility.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests may cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent, with options to reschedule or receive a refund if canceled due to poor weather.