A Day to Discover Tuscany’s Treasures: Pisa, Lucca, and Chianti Wine
Imagine a day spent exploring two of Italy’s most enchanting towns — Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower and the historic walls of Lucca — all comfortably organized for you. This private tour offers a seamless, stress-free way to see these highlights from Florence, starting at around 9 a.m. and lasting approximately 8 hours. For around $711 per person, you get personalized attention, private transportation, and the chance to sample some of Tuscany’s finest wines and olive oils.
What we love about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with free time — giving you the chance to wander thoughtfully through the charming streets of Lucca or marvel at Pisa’s architectural marvels at your own pace. Plus, the organic Chianti winery stop is a real treat, letting you taste regional wines and oils with locally sourced snacks.
A possible consideration is the price — at over $700, it’s an investment — but the private setting, expert guides, and included tastings can make it worth every euro if you’re after a personal, intimate experience. It’s especially perfect for travelers who value high-quality guides, authentic local tastes, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
If you’re a history buff, a wine lover, or simply want a comfortable way to see some of Tuscany’s best spots without the hassle of navigating yourself, this tour fits the bill beautifully.
Key Points
- Private Experience: Only your group with a dedicated guide, ensuring personalized attention.
- Flexible Free Time: Both Pisa and Lucca offer opportunities to explore on your own.
- Wine and Olive Oil Tasting: At a top organic Chianti winery, with expert guidance.
- Convenient Pickup: From centrally located Florence hotels or meet in town.
- Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Pisa’s Leaning Tower, Lucca’s Duomo and Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, plus a scenic drive through Tuscany’s countryside.
- Great Reviews: Consistently high ratings and enthusiastic traveler feedback.
An In-Depth Look at What You’re Getting
This private tour from Florence to Pisa and Lucca is designed for those who want to make the most of a day in Tuscany without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. The entire experience is carefully curated to combine sightseeing, culture, and regional flavors, all wrapped in the convenience of private transport and flexible stops.
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Starting Point and Morning Pickup
Your day begins bright and early, with a hotel pickup if you’re staying in Florence’s “A” zone. If not, you’ll meet your driver in front of Hotel Boccaccio-Tino Caffè near Santa Maria Novella train station, around 9 a.m. The ease of pickup is a major plus, saving you the hassle of navigating public transport or complicated logistics.
For those who like to start the day on a relaxed note, you can even enjoy breakfast at the meeting point, with a 10% discount for Just Drive guests. Your driver, who might be a knowledgeable guide or simply a skilled driver, will share some insights about the region as you settle into the comfortable minivan, which includes Wi-Fi hotspots, bottled water, and snacks — small touches that make a big difference when traveling.
First Stop: Torre Guinigi in Lucca
Your first stop is Torre Guinigi, a unique tower crowned with a small grove of trees — a quirky sign of Lucca’s medieval ingenuity. While the stop itself lasts about 30 minutes, it’s enough to snap photos and get a first impression of Lucca’s distinctive skyline.
This stop is especially appreciated by travelers who enjoy combining history with personal exploration. Since the tour is private, your guide can tailor explanations and tips to your interests, making this a lively, engaging start to your Lucca visit.
Exploring Lucca: Piazza Anfiteatro and Duomo di San Martino
Next, you’ll head to Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a beautifully circular square built on the site of a Roman amphitheater. This spot, with its surrounding buildings following the elliptical shape, offers a sense of how the past and present mesh in Tuscany’s towns. It’s a lively place to stroll, take photos, or enjoy a quick coffee.
Then, your journey continues to Duomo di San Martino, a cathedral begun in 1063. Its Romanesque architecture and historical significance make it a must-see, and the interior houses some notable art and religious relics. The one-hour stop here allows for a thorough look, and as reviews highlight, guides often share fascinating stories about the cathedral’s history and art.
Free Time in Lucca
The highlight for many travelers is the free time in Lucca. The town is famed for its intact Renaissance walls, which you can walk or bike along — a half-hour bike ride around the city wall is a favorite among visitors, providing sweeping views and a chance to stretch.
Some reviews mention how guides or drivers sometimes take extra steps to explain the city’s history or point out hidden gems, even when the official plan calls for free exploration. This flexibility is a key advantage of booking a private experience.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Florence
- Cinque Terre and Pisa Tower Tour from Florence Semi Private
- Private Highlights of Florence Bike Tour
- Private Tour in Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti Day Trip from Florence
- Private Flavors of Florence Walking Tour (Food and Wine Included)
- Florence Vintage Bike Tourguided, small group or private option
- Cinque Terre and Pisa Tower Tour from Florence Semi Private
Afternoon in Pisa: The Iconic Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli
After Lucca, you’ll head to Pisa. Here, you’ll have about an hour to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazza dei Miracoli, and the other monuments like the Baptistery and Duomo. The tour doesn’t include tickets to climb the tower, so if that’s on your list, plan to book tickets online beforehand.
This stop is a classic for a reason, and many reviews praise the chance to get up close with this architectural marvel. The fact that you’re free to wander at your own pace means you can take your time to snap photos or simply soak in the atmosphere.
Beyond the iconic tower, nearby Piazza dei Cavalieri offers a quieter, scholarly vibe, home to the University of Pisa’s historic buildings, which adds context to the city’s academic heritage.
The Winery: Chianti’s Organic Treasures
The final highlight is a visit to Fattoria San Michele A Torri, a family-run organic Chianti winery. Here, you’ll sample a selection of regional wines, paired with extra virgin olive oil and local snacks. This stop is a big hit with reviews, as guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to taste authentic local products.
The winery tour also offers insight into Tuscany’s winemaking traditions and sustainable practices, making this stop both delicious and educational. Many reviewers remark on the quality of the wine and the friendliness of the staff, noting that it’s a relaxing way to end the day.
Return to Florence
The tour wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel or the starting point in Florence, typically around 6-7 p.m. This timely finish makes it easier to plan your evening activities, whether that’s a nice dinner or just relaxing after a full day.
Practical Considerations and Value
While the price of $711.44 per person might seem steep at first glance, it covers almost everything — private transportation, all tastings, snacks, Wi-Fi, and the convenience of a private guide. You won’t have to worry about navigating public transit or waiting for group members, which many travelers find worth the extra cost.
The reviews emphasize how the personalized attention and flexibility set this tour apart. Guests repeatedly mention the knowledgeable guides who answer questions and enhance their understanding of the sites. The small group size or private setting ensures a more intimate experience, often making travelers feel like they’re exploring with a local friend rather than part of a large bus crowd.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you enjoy having a personalized experience with flexibility and deeper insights, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for history and architecture lovers who want to explore without rushing, as well as wine enthusiasts eager to taste authentic Tuscan flavors.
However, if your priority is climbing the Leaning Tower or visiting very specific sites, remember tickets aren’t included, and you may need to plan accordingly. Also, for those on a tighter budget, the overall cost might be a consideration, but the comfort and tailored experience often justify the investment.
The Sum Up
This private Pisa and Lucca wine tour from Florence offers a well-balanced day of sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing. The private setting means you get the attention of guides who are both knowledgeable and friendly, making each stop more meaningful. The inclusion of organic Chianti wine tasting adds a delicious regional touch, and the flexible free time allows you to explore at your own pace.
It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and authentic experiences — those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate glimpse into Tuscany’s culture, architecture, and flavors. If you’re looking for a thoughtfully organized day with high reviews and a focus on quality, this tour delivers on many levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you’re staying in Florence’s “A” zone, your pickup is arranged directly from your hotel. Otherwise, you’ll meet the driver at Hotel Boccaccio near Santa Maria Novella train station.
What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9 a.m. and ending around 6-7 p.m., depending on traffic and timing at each stop.
Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. However, at the winery, snacks and tastings are provided as part of the experience.
Can I climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
Tickets for climbing the tower are not included and must be booked separately online if you wish to ascend.
Is this a group or private tour?
It is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.
What languages are guides available in?
While not specified, reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, so expect English-speaking guides with good local knowledge.
Does the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
The wine tasting includes regional snacks and oils, but specific dietary needs aren’t detailed. It’s best to confirm in advance if you have special requirements.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers found it suitable, especially since it involves sightseeing and tasting, but keep in mind the duration and walking involved.
This private tour balances comfort with authentic experiences, making it ideal for those eager to see Tuscany’s highlights in one memorable day. Whether you’re hunting for that perfect photo, seeking regional wines, or simply want to soak in Italy’s charming towns without the hassle, this trip has something to offer.
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