Pisa & Florence Private Tour from La Spezia port

Starting with a quick overview: this Pisa & Florence private tour from La Spezia offers a stress-free way to see two of Tuscany’s most iconic cities in about nine hours. For just over $1,389 for your group — up to three people — you’ll enjoy private minivan transportation, direct pickup at the La Spezia cruise port, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re drawn to the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the artistic treasures of Florence, this tour is designed to give you a personalized experience without the constraints of large group tours.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the door-to-door service and the ample free time. Being picked up directly at the cruise port means you avoid the hassle and unpredictability of public transportation or taxis, giving you precious hours to soak in each city’s highlights. Plus, having three hours in Florence and an hour in Pisa to explore freely means you can enjoy shopping, photos, or a leisurely meal without feeling rushed.

A potential consideration is the cost, which is on the higher side for a day trip. While the private transport and flexibility are valuable, if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a guided tour with inside access to museums, this might not be the best fit. It’s best suited for travelers who value comfort, privacy, and the chance to customize their visit — especially those arriving by cruise who want to maximize their time.

This tour suits travelers who want personalized attention and the freedom to explore independently. It’s perfect if you’ve already seen the major sites and just want a smooth way to visit Pisa and Florence without the crowds or rigid schedules. From reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides, like Mateo, make a real difference, turning an ordinary excursion into a memorable experience.

Key Points

• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility.
• Direct pickup and drop-off at La Spezia cruise port saves time and hassle.
• Ample free time in Pisa and Florence allows personalized exploration.
• Expert drivers provide a smooth, knowledgeable experience.
• No guided tours inside museums — focus instead on sightseeing, shopping, or dining.
• Cost reflects comfort and exclusivity, making it ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, private experience.

In-Depth Review of the Pisa & Florence Private Tour from La Spezia

Why Choose a Private Tour?

Travelers often face the challenge of fitting two major Tuscan cities into a limited time when cruising. Public transport options like trains or buses can be unreliable or time-consuming, especially if schedules don’t align perfectly with your ship’s timetable. This private tour sidesteps those issues entirely, offering door-to-door service that begins right at your cruise port.

Having a private driver is a real game-changer. You are not just a number on a bus — you get the freedom to decide how long to linger at each spot. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide like Mateo, who’s praised for being personable and well-informed, you’re assured of a friendly, relaxed vibe that makes the whole day enjoyable.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Piazza dei Miracoli (Leaning Tower of Pisa)

Your first stop is the world-famous Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Camposanto Monumentale. Here, you have about one hour to photograph the iconic tower and soak in the atmosphere. Since admission to the tower and basilica isn’t included, this stop is perfect for quick photos and admiring the architecture from outside.

We loved the way this stop is timed — enough to get a sense of the place without feeling rushed. The square’s medieval charm is palpable, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a magnet for travelers. Just keep in mind, if you want to climb the tower or enter the basilica, you’ll need to buy separate tickets.

Stop 2: Piazza dei Cavalieri

Next, a short 10-minute stop at Piazza dei Cavalieri. This square is less crowded but historically significant, home to the Scuola Normale di Pisa — a prestigious university. Many reviews mention the connection to Nobel laureate Enrico Fermi, who studied here. It’s a quick stop but offers a glimpse into Pisa’s academic heritage, and you can appreciate the elegant medieval architecture that surrounds the square.

Stop 3: Centro Storico of Florence

The main event is the three-hour visit to Florence’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll have free time to walk along Ponte Vecchio, explore Piazza della Signoria, and admire Palazzo Pitti and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. No guided tour inside, but you’ll be left to wander at your own pace, which many travelers find ideal for capturing photos, shopping, or grabbing an authentic Tuscan meal.

From reviews, travelers appreciate this free time: “We were able to see highlights of both Pisa and Florence and still have time for shopping,” one says. It’s a chance to step off the beaten path, browse local shops, or sit at a café and soak up the city’s lively atmosphere.

Transportation and Comfort

The air-conditioned private minivan is a highlight, especially on hot days. WiFi on board is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to share photos or plan your next stop. With only your group, the ride feels personal and relaxed, avoiding the crowds and noise of larger tours.

The driver acts more like a chauffeur, ensuring comfort and punctuality. Reviewers note that Mateo, in particular, is punctual, friendly, and speaks fluent English, which makes communication straightforward. The drive from La Spezia to Pisa takes about 45 minutes, and onward to Florence might add a bit more, but the driver’s local knowledge often offers interesting insights along the way.

Price and Value

While $1,389.12 might seem steep at first glance, consider what you’re getting: private, door-to-door transportation, flexible timing, and personalized service. For groups of up to three, this can be a cost-effective alternative to booking separate taxis, guided tours, or multiple public transport tickets.

Guests consistently praise the value for comfort and convenience, especially since they can tailor their time in each city. The fact that you’re not constrained by group schedules or guided tour timings means you’ll get a more authentic, relaxed experience.

Review Highlights

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable and personable guides. One traveler mentions Mateo’s attentiveness and good communication, which significantly enhances the experience. Another reviewer notes that it was “incredible shame that the cruise ships’ schedules require over an hour drive,” but still emphasizes this tour as the best way to appreciate Florence and Pisa comfortably.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who value privacy, comfort, and independence. It’s perfect for travelers arriving by cruise ship, who want to maximize their sightseeing without the stress of public transport or group tours. If you’re keen on having the freedom to explore, take photos, and visit sites at your own pace, this private tour will meet your needs.

However, keep in mind that this isn’t a guided museum tour — you’ll be exploring on your own during your free time. If you prefer detailed guided visits inside museums and attractions, this might not be the ideal choice.

The Sum Up

This Pisa & Florence private tour from La Spezia offers a convenient, comfortable way to see two of Tuscany’s most famous cities in a single day. Its main strengths lie in the private transportation, flexible itinerary, and the personalized experience provided by attentive guides like Mateo. It’s especially valuable for cruise travelers who want to avoid the unpredictability and hassle of public transport or large group tours.

While the price may be on the higher side, the value in comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention makes it worth considering. You’ll appreciate the freedom to explore at your own pace, from iconic landmarks to hidden corners, with the added benefit of a driver who knows the area well.

This tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or families seeking a relaxed, tailored day out. If you want to see Pisa’s Leaning Tower and enjoy Florence’s lively streets without feeling rushed, this experience will serve you well.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible, making it suitable for most travelers, including families. Just keep in mind the walking involved in Florence’s historic center.

Do I need to buy tickets for attractions?
No, admission to sites like Pisa’s Leaning Tower or Florence’s museums isn’t included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if you wish to go inside.

How long is the drive from La Spezia to Pisa and Florence?
The drive from La Spezia to Pisa takes about 45 minutes; traveling to Florence may take a bit longer, depending on traffic.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private, air-conditioned transportation, a knowledgeable driver, and WiFi on board. Entrance fees and guided tours inside attractions are extra.

Can I customize the timing?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferred timing with your driver, within the overall schedule.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
It depends on individual needs. The tour involves some walking in the cities’ historic centers, but the private vehicle provides a comfortable way to move between stops.

Will I have enough time for shopping or dining?
Yes, the three hours in Florence give you plenty of leeway for shopping, photos, or a relaxed meal.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
While the tour itself is self-guided, reviews mention that drivers like Mateo are well-informed and personable, adding value to the experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially for strolling through Florence’s streets.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This private Pisa & Florence tour from La Spezia balances comfort, flexibility, and independence, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, personalized day to enjoy two of Italy’s most beloved cities.