PRIVATE Full-Day Tour around Pisa and Lucca from Florence

Experience the Charm of Tuscany on a Private Full-Day Tour from Florence

Imagine leaving behind Florence’s bustling streets for a day to explore two of Tuscany’s most captivating cities—Pisa and Lucca. For $374.53 per person, you’ll enjoy a full eight-hour day filled with effortless sightseeing, comfortable transportation, and personalized attention from your guide. This tour promises to take you straight to the highlights, like Pisa’s leaning tower and Lucca’s medieval walls, without the hassle of planning or navigating.

What we particularly love about this experience is the door-to-door service—your driver will pick you up directly at your accommodation, making it incredibly convenient. Plus, traveling in a luxury minivan with onboard Wi-Fi means you can relax and stay connected while soaking up the Tuscan scenery. Another highlight is the private tour setting—you won’t be part of a large group, allowing for a flexible, tailored visit that fits your interests.

A potential consideration is that admission tickets to climb the Leaning Tower aren’t included, so if that’s a must-see for you, plan to reserve ahead. Also, this tour is best suited for those who appreciate a more relaxed, personalized experience rather than a rushed, guide-led group.

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day exploring Tuscany’s iconic cities without the stress of self-driving or complex logistics. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply eager to see Pisa and Lucca with comfort and ease, this tour offers an excellent blend of sightseeing, local flavor, and scenic views.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour means flexible stops and tailored attention.
• Scenic Comfort: Travel in a luxury minivan with Wi-Fi and door-to-door pickup.
• Highlights Focused: See Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, Leaning Tower, and Lucca’s medieval walls.
• Flexible Timing: Departure around 9:00 am, with optional pickup time adjustments.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Walk through Lucca’s charming streets, piazzas, and atop its historic walls.
• Value for Money: A full day of sightseeing with a knowledgeable driver for just over $370.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

The Drive to Pisa and the Piazza dei Miracoli

Your journey begins with a comfortable, approximately one-hour drive from Florence to Pisa. We appreciated the smooth ride, especially since the minivan was equipped with Wi-Fi, so we could share our excitement and catch up on local tips along the way. Once in Pisa, you’ll be driven through the historic suburbs before arriving at the world-famous Piazza dei Miracoli.

This square is a true feast for the senses. The vast, lush green grass surrounding the impressive Duomo Baptistery creates a striking contrast with the white marble architecture. Despite the crowds, the atmosphere remains timeless and evocative—a perfect introduction to Pisa’s storied past. The tour includes about 30 minutes here, giving plenty of time to snap photos and soak it all in.

Climbing and Viewing the Leaning Tower

Next, you’ll cross through one of Pisa’s medieval gates and stand before the Leaning Tower of Pisa, arguably Italy’s most iconic structure. While tickets to climb the tower are not included, you can still marvel at its tilted beauty and the curious photos everyone tries to snap. It’s fun to watch others experiment with camera angles—your turn might be next.

Visitors have noted that the tower’s tilt is even more impressive up close. It’s a must-see for many, and the tour’s flexibility allows you to choose whether to spend more time exploring the square or heading on to Lucca.

The Enchanting Town of Lucca

After Pisa, the journey continues to Lucca, a city that feels like stepping back in time. Known for its perfectly preserved Renaissance walls, Lucca offers a relaxed pace and a treasure trove of sights. You’ll spend approximately two hours wandering its charming streets, picturesque squares, and historical sites.

One of the highlights is Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, built on the ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheater. Its vibrant atmosphere, lined with cafes and restaurants, makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or just soaking up the medieval ambience. As one reviewer mentioned, the “charming medieval atmosphere” is undeniable here.

Climbing Torre Guinigi and Visiting the Churches

Another not-to-miss spot is Torre Guinigi, famous for its hanging garden at the top. The 4-euro ticket is a small price to pay for the chance to enjoy panoramic views over Lucca’s rooftops and the surrounding countryside. The garden’s lush greenery adds a whimsical touch—something you’ll remember long after the visit.

Lucca’s Duomo di San Martino and San Michele in Foro showcase impressive architecture and art, with some reviewers noting the churches’ restored beauty after a lengthy renovation. Both are free to enter, offering a glimpse into the city’s spiritual and artistic richness.

Walking or Biking the City Walls

Your tour also offers the chance to walk or bike along Lucca’s famous city walls—a unique feature that makes this city so special. Cycling is affordable at 4 euros per hour, and the views from atop the walls are exceptional, providing a panoramic perspective on the city and countryside. Many say that riding the walls is one of the most memorable parts of the day.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Reflections

One of the aspects that stood out in reviews was the personal touch provided by guides like Alessandro. As Melissa shared, he made us feel like family and was incredibly kind and accommodating. This kind of personalized service often elevates a good tour into a memorable one.

While some anticipated a guided tour in Lucca, others found the self-guided exploration perfectly suited their pace. Laurie mentioned that Alessandro mapped out a route and even recommended a wonderful lunch spot, meaning you’ll get good local insight without feeling rushed.

An important note is that admission to climb the Leaning Tower isn’t included, which might influence your planning if that’s a priority. Also, lunch and guide services are extra, so budgeting for those elements will enhance your experience.

The timing is well-planned, with a departure around 9:00 am, allowing for a relaxed yet comprehensive day. The door-to-door pickup simplifies logistics, especially after a busy morning exploring Florence.

Price and Value Analysis

For around $374 per person, this private tour offers a full day’s worth of sightseeing in two of Tuscany’s most charming cities. Compared to the hassle and cost of organizing separate transportation and tickets, it delivers great value—especially considering the personalized service and convenience.

While tickets to climb the Leaning Tower are not included, you have the flexibility to decide whether to add that on. The luxury minivan with Wi-Fi and hotel pickup make the overall experience smooth and comfortable, reducing stress for travelers unfamiliar with Tuscan roads.

This tour is particularly good value for couples or small groups who want a private, flexible experience without the expense and complexity of self-driving or joining larger tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private day trip best suits travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention. If you enjoy wandering at your own pace, discovering hidden corners, and having a guide who can tailor the experience, this is an excellent choice. It’s also ideal for first-time visitors who want a rundown without feeling rushed.

Those wanting to include climbing the Leaning Tower or dining at specific restaurants should plan ahead and possibly add those elements separately. The tour’s relaxed pace and scenic stops make it perfect for families, couples, or friends eager to explore Tuscany’s highlights without the stress of navigating alone.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers door-to-door pickup from your Florence hotel or specified address, making it very convenient.

How long is the drive from Florence to Pisa?
It’s approximately one hour in a comfortable minivan, with Wi-Fi onboard for your convenience.

What is not included in the price?
Admission tickets to climb the Leaning Tower are not included, and lunch or guide services are extra.

Can I customize the stops or timing?
The tour is private, so the schedule can be flexible—just communicate your preferences with your driver or guide.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the comfortable vehicle and manageable walking distances make it suitable for most ages, though climbing the tower may require extra effort.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s best to reserve about 68 days in advance, as it’s a popular option.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, your camera, and some cash or cards for optional tickets or meals.

Is this a guided tour?
It’s a private, personalized experience, but the guide (driver) mainly facilitates transportation and local insights rather than in-depth guided commentary.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking an effortless way to see Pisa and Lucca from Florence, this private full-day tour offers a compelling combination of scenic comfort, flexibility, and authentic charm. The ability to customize your day, combined with the convenience of hotel pickup and a private vehicle, makes it an excellent choice for travelers who prefer a relaxed, curated experience.

While it doesn’t include some extras like tower climbs or guided commentary in every site, the personalized service and scenic routes more than compensate. You’ll love the stunning views, the friendly driver, and the chance to explore at your own pace. If you want a smooth, memorable day discovering Tuscany’s highlights—and doing so in style—this tour is worth considering.

This experience appeals most to those who value comfort and flexibility, want to avoid the hassle of logistics, and are eager to enjoy Tuscany’s iconic sights with a well-organized, private touch.

Ready to Explore Tuscany in Style?

If you’re planning your trip from Florence and want to enjoy Pisa’s leaning tower and Lucca’s medieval walls with ease, this private tour offers a fantastic balance of convenience, comfort, and authentic experiences. Book early, prepare to relax, and prepare for a charming day in the heart of Italy’s most beloved region.