Pisa and Florence Shared Shore Excursion from Livorno Port

A Full-Day Journey from Livorno: Exploring Pisa and Florence

If your cruise stops at Livorno and you’re craving a taste of Italy’s most iconic cities, this Pisa and Florence shore excursion offers a well-rounded, engaging experience. For around $232.53 per person, you’ll spend approximately 9 hours traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly guide, visiting highlights like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazzale Michelangelo, and Ponte Vecchio. It’s a good choice for those who want to see the city’s top sights without the hassle of planning transport or tickets.

What we love most about this tour is the flexibility—you get free time to explore each city based on your interests, and the small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Plus, professional drivers make the journey smooth, and the included Wi-Fi helps you stay connected during transit.

A potential drawback is that museum and monument entry fees aren’t included, so budget for those if you wish to climb the Leaning Tower or visit museums. Also, 45 minutes at Pisa can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re eager to explore beyond the main square.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, flexibility, and value—and who want to combine sightseeing with relaxation and local flavor.

This experience made our article of Which Florence Shore Excursions To Choose? Our Best 7 Picks.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transport: Travel in air-conditioned vehicles with Wi-Fi, ensuring a relaxing trip.
• Flexible Schedule: Free time in Pisa and Florence allows you to explore based on your interests.
• Expert Guides & Drivers: Knowledgeable hosts provide commentary, making the experience richer.
• Iconic Sights: Visit Pisa’s Leaning Tower, the Duomo, and Florence’s Piazzale Michelangelo and Ponte Vecchio.
• Authentic Local Flavor: Recommendations for local restaurants and markets enhance your visit.
• Good Value: Combining transport, sightseeing, and flexible time at this price makes for a solid deal.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour kicks off bright and early at 8:00 am in Livorno, with the convenience of port pickup included. From there, your private, air-conditioned vehicle whisks you toward Pisa, about a 45-minute drive through the scenic Tuscan countryside—an enjoyable start that sets a relaxed tone.

First Stop: Piazza dei Cavalieri and Pisa’s Square of Miracles

Your first stop is Piazza dei Cavalieri, a historic square once home to the Knights of St. Stephen. While the admission isn’t included, wandering this charming square gives you a feel for Pisa’s medieval past.

Next, you’ll hit the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa—the star of the show. If you want to climb the tower, be sure to pre-purchase tickets—these need to be booked not later than 9 a.m.. The tower’s tilt is both quirky and impressive, and from the top, the views of the cathedral and the square are a reminder of Pisa’s architectural grandeur.

Following this, you’ll stroll around the Duomo di Pisa and Piazza dei Miracoli, where the cathedral, baptistery, and campanile create a visually stunning ensemble. 45 minutes at each stop might seem brief, but reviews suggest that most travelers find this enough to snap some photos and soak in the atmosphere—though some wish for a little more time.

Afternoon in Florence: Panoramas and Art

Leaving Pisa, your driver heads to Florence, with a short drive to Piazzale Michelangelo—famous for its breathtaking panoramic views of the city. This 10-minute stop offers a perfect photo op, especially just before sunset, but even during the day, the vistas are impressive.

Next, the tour explores Piazza Santa Croce, where Michelangelo and Galileo are buried. The leather market here is a favorite for those wanting to browse authentic Italian leather goods, and the church itself is worth a quick visit.

Then, you’ll have about 2 hours to meander Piazza della Repubblica—a lively square filled with cafes and street performers—and soak up the lively Florence atmosphere. Here, many reviews mention how much they appreciated the flexibility to explore independently in these bustling city centers.

The Duomo di Santa Maria del Fiore is next, and while entry fees aren’t included, the chance to see one of Italy’s most celebrated cathedrals from the outside—its red-tiled dome—is a highlight. You’ll also cross Ponte Vecchio, the historic jewelry-filled bridge, which is not just picturesque but historically fascinating.

Finally, a quick stop at Mercato del Porcellino provides a chance to shop for souvenirs or just enjoy the lively market vibe. Before heading back, a brief gelato break at Santa Maria Novella ensures your sweet tooth is satisfied and gives you a taste of Florence’s famous dessert scene.

What to Expect from the Experience

This tour’s small-group setting—generally less than 10 travelers—creates an intimate environment where you can ask questions and get personalized tips. Many reviews praise their guide for being knowledgeable, personable, and funny—making the day both informative and enjoyable.

Transportation is a key benefit. The air-conditioned vehicle offers a comfortable ride, and Wi-Fi lets you share photos or check your messages along the way. However, some travelers note that Wi-Fi can be spotty if mobile networks are down, a common issue during busy travel seasons.

The timing is structured to maximize sightseeing while allowing free time in each city. For example, at Pisa, you have 45 minutes to admire the tower and surroundings—a good amount for photos and quick exploration, according to reviewers. In Florence, about 4 hours are allocated for sightseeing and exploring, which many find ample given the number of sights.

Climbing the Leaning Tower requires pre-purchased tickets—a crucial tip from reviews, as last-minute bookings may be impossible or more expensive. This step ensures you won’t miss out on the experience if it’s a priority.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

Many travelers mention how the guide’s local tips added value—such as restaurant suggestions and market visits—making the trip more authentic. The lively markets and outdoor plazas provide a sense of local life often missing in larger, more rigid tours.

However, museums and monument entry fees are not included, which is typical for tours like this. If climbing the tower or visiting certain churches is a must, you’ll need to budget extra.

Some reviews highlight minor issues, like difficulty finding the guide or Wi-Fi outages, but overall, these seem to be the exception rather than the rule. The majority agree that timing was well-managed, and the drivers and guides contributed significantly to a positive experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for cruise passengers who want to maximize their time in Pisa and Florence without the stress of planning. It works well for those who enjoy independent exploration with the safety net of a structured schedule and small group atmosphere.

If you’re interested in photography, the stops at Piazzale Michelangelo and Ponte Vecchio will give you spectacular photo opportunities. For history buffs or art lovers, the guides’ commentary and the chance to explore key sites are invaluable.

Travelers who value comfort and convenience—like air-conditioned transport and port pickup—will appreciate the overall logistics. If you’re comfortable with some walking and are prepared to book tickets in advance, this tour offers a good balance of guided insights and free exploration.

The Sum Up

This Pisa and Florence shore excursion offers a well-rounded glimpse of two of Italy’s most treasured cities, with the benefits of comfortable transportation, small group intimacy, and free time for independent discovery. The expert guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, elevate the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing checklist.

For travelers who want a balanced mix of guided insights and autonomous exploration, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic local experiences—from markets to panoramic views—and want to avoid the hassles of logistics and ticketing.

While some may find 45 minutes at Pisa a little tight or wish for more included visits, the overall value, comfort, and flexibility make this excursion a solid choice for a memorable day in Tuscany. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, you’ll leave with plenty of snapshots and stories to share.

FAQ

Do I need to pre-purchase tickets for the Leaning Tower?
Yes, climbing the tower is a highlight, but tickets must be bought before 9 a.m. on the day of the tour to secure your spot.

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included, giving you the chance to choose a local spot based on your preferences.

Are museums and monument entry fees included?
No, these are not included. You should budget extra if you want to visit inside the cathedrals or climb the tower.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for up to 99 travelers, but reviews suggest most groups are small—around 8 to 10 people—creating a more intimate experience.

Will I have free time in both cities?
Yes, the itinerary offers free time after key stops, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Many travelers found this flexibility to be a major plus.

Is Wi-Fi available during the trip?
Most vehicles offer Wi-Fi, but some reviews mention that it can sometimes be unreliable due to network outages. It’s best for light browsing or sharing photos.

What transportation is included?
You’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, making for a comfortable and hassle-free journey from Livorno to Pisa and Florence and back.

This detailed look at the Pisa and Florence shore excursion should help you decide if it’s right for your Tuscany adventure. With the mix of iconic sights, flexible free time, and a friendly guide, it offers a solid way to experience Italy’s artistic and architectural treasures without the need to navigate the logistics yourself.