Florence is one of Italy’s must-see cities, especially for cruise travelers looking to experience Renaissance art, stunning architecture, and authentic Tuscan charm. Its compact center makes it ideal for shore excursions—an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Michelangelo, Dante, and countless other legends. Whether you prefer a private tailored experience or a lively group outing, Florence’s diverse options cater to different tastes and budgets. Our top picks include a private full-day tour with personalized attention and scenic views, and a well-organized group trip that balances freedom with expert guidance. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a must-see icon included in many of these tours, along with key landmarks like the Duomo and Piazza Santa Croce.
One tour we particularly love is the Livorno Shore Excursion: Pisa and Florence Private Day Trip because it offers the flexibility of exploring on your own or with a guide, plus skip-the-line access to top museums if you choose. This makes it perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience without sacrificing convenience. For a more comprehensive visit with exclusive transportation, the Full Day Florence Private Shore Excursion from Livorno Port ranks high thanks to its luxury vehicle and custom itinerary. Read on for all the details.
1. Livorno Shore Excursion: Pisa and Florence Private Day Trip
At number one, this private day trip from Livorno combines the best of Pisa and Florence in one flexible, stress-free package. The tour includes round-trip transportation directly from your cruise ship, so you don’t waste time haggling with taxis or trying to find your way. You can explore Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, snapping photos of the Leaning Tower and visiting the cathedral and Baptistery—admission tickets are not included but can be added for a deeper experience. Then, the journey continues to Florence, where you’ll stroll through the historic center, taking in sights like the Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio.
What makes this tour stand out is the option to explore independently or with a guide and to add skip-the-line tickets for popular attractions. The reviews highlight how personalized service, like the driver Leo, can turn a busy day into a memorable one. One traveler said, “Our driver Leo was awesome. We saw the Leaning Tower before crowds arrived, and the day was fantastic.” This tour is ideal for travelers who want flexibility, comfort, and the chance to customize their experience.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private option perfect for those who want tailored sightseeing combined with comfort and convenience.
2. Pisa and Florence: Shore Excursion from La Spezia Cruise Port
At number two, this full-day private tour from La Spezia is perfect for travelers based in or nearby La Spezia. It provides round-trip luxury transport with onboard Wi-Fi, making the journey to Pisa and Florence both comfortable and connected. The itinerary includes a quick drive-by of Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, where you’ll see the Leaning Tower, cathedral, and Baptistery. You’ll also enjoy several hours in Florence, with stops at Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic photos, Piazza Santa Croce to see Michelangelo’s burial site, and Piazza della Repubblica, giving you time to explore independently.
What’s especially appealing about this tour is the freedom it offers—your driver provides local tips, and you get about three hours of free time in Florence to visit landmarks, shop, or relax. The reviews mention how smooth the experience was, with travelers praising driver Matteo’s knowledge and punctuality. One said, “Our driver Matteo was very knowledgeable and on-time,” which is crucial for a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: A well-organized, flexible private tour ideal for travelers who want a blend of guided highlights and free exploration.
3. Pisa and Florence Shore Excursion from Livorno Port
In third place, this private group tour from Livorno offers a more intimate experience with the freedom to customize your itinerary. It’s perfect for smaller groups up to eight people seeking a relaxed pace and personal attention. The tour includes port pickup and drop-off, with stops at Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, where you can admire the Leaning Tower from outside or visit the cathedral if you wish (tickets not included). Afterward, the journey continues to Florence, with stops at Piazzale Michelangelo, Piazza Santa Croce, and other highlights.
This tour is praised for its flexibility and the personal insights from drivers like Luca and Francesco. One review notes, “The day was very well organized, and we saw all of Florence,” emphasizing how this tour balances sightseeing with leisure. It’s ideal for groups wanting a personalized experience without the hassle of navigating themselves.
Bottom Line: A private, customizable tour suited for small groups eager for an authentic, relaxed day in Tuscany’s two most iconic cities.
4. Pisa and Florence Shared Shore Excursion from Livorno Port
Number four offers a shared group experience that’s budget-friendly but still packed with highlights. For around $232 per person, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy free time in Pisa and Florence. The itinerary includes visiting Pisa’s Piazza dei Cavalieri and the Leaning Tower, and then transferring to Florence for Piazzale Michelangelo and Piazza Santa Croce.
While it’s a shared group, reviews indicate the tour is smooth and well-managed, with travelers appreciating the opportunity to see the main sights without feeling rushed. One reviewer commented, “The route and timing were excellent; I felt we saw all the best parts of Florence and Pisa,” making it a solid choice for those on a tighter budget or who prefer social group tours.
Bottom Line: Great value for a full day of sightseeing, especially for travelers comfortable with group dynamic and seeking affordability.
5. Full Day Florence Private Shore Excursion from Livorno Port
At number five, this private full-day tour offers an intimate, personalized experience of Florence’s main sights. Travel in a luxury Mercedes vehicle with onboard Wi-Fi, allowing you to relax and chat about history en route. Highlights include Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Duomo. Your guide provides insights into Florence’s art, architecture, and cultural importance, making the tour more than just a walk around the city.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a tailored, in-depth experience with a small group—up to four people for a fixed price. Several reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the tour’s seamless flow, with one noting, “The guide made everything easy and enjoyable.” The flexible itinerary and private transport make it a fantastic choice for those who want maximum comfort and attention.
Bottom Line: An upscale, private option ideal for couples or small groups who want an exclusive, in-depth Florence experience.
6. Shore Excursion from Florence to San Gimignano and Siena
Number six takes you a bit further into Tuscany’s countryside, with a private tour to San Gimignano and Siena. The driver picks you up at your hotel or port for a day of medieval splendor, including San Gimignano’s towers and crafts shops. After a traditional Tuscan lunch at a local trattoria in San Donato, you’ll visit Siena, famous for its cathedral and historic piazza.
The tour stands out for its focus on Tuscany’s scenic countryside and authentic towns, appealing to travelers wanting more than just the city. The single review notes how the driver Michaele made the day better by adjusting the plan to the group’s preferences. It’s best suited for those with a deeper interest in Tuscany’s rural charm and medieval towns.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic Tuscan experience combining history, scenery, and cuisine.
$776.80 per group (up to 3)
7. Shore Excursion Florence and Pisa from Livorno Port
Rounding out the list, this comprehensive half-day tour covers Florence and Pisa in about eight hours. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the highlights without a full-day commitment. The itinerary includes the Leaning Tower, Florence’s cathedral, and the Piazza della Repubblica, with plenty of free time to explore independently.
This option is praised for its flexibility and personalized service. Travelers mention that guides like Antonio were professional, knowledgeable, and accommodating, ensuring a smooth experience. It’s well-suited for those with tight schedules or who prefer a quick overview of Tuscany’s gems.
Bottom Line: A practical choice for travelers who want a quick but comprehensive taste of Florence and Pisa.
$685.26 per person
How to Choose the Right Shore Excursion in Florence
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, interest level, and physical activity comfort. Private tours like the Livorno Private Day Trip and Full Day Florence Private Tour offer personalized attention and are ideal for couples or small groups seeking an in-depth experience. Meanwhile, shared tours offer budget-friendly options but may be less flexible. If your cruise calls at La Spezia, the La Spezia Tour provides a seamless and comfortable day with plenty of free time.
Think about whether you want guided visits to museums and landmarks or prefer flexibility to explore at your own pace. Booking early is wise, especially for private guides and skip-the-line tickets, which can sell out quickly during peak season.
To sum it up, Florence offers a wide variety of shore excursions to suit every style and budget. For a personalized, detailed experience, the private full-day tours shine, especially for lovers of art, history, and comfort. Budget travelers or small groups may prefer shared or shorter options, while those craving a deeper Tuscan countryside experience will find the San Gimignano and Siena trip irresistible. No matter your choice, these carefully selected excursions ensure you’ll make the most of your brief time in Tuscany—so plan ahead and book early to secure your spot.