Pisa is a fantastic port city for shore excursions, especially if you’re eager to see the Leaning Tower and dive into Tuscany’s charming towns. Because Pisa isn’t just about the famous tilt—it’s also about the beautiful Miracle Square, historic landmarks, and nearby cities like Florence and San Gimignano. The variety of tours here means there’s something for every traveler—whether you prefer a quick guided visit, a private custom day, or a more adventurous outing into marble caves and Roman ruins. One thing’s clear: Pisa’s small size makes it ideal for getting your fill of Italy’s highlights in half a day or a full day, without the hassle of long bus rides.
My favorite part? For its perfect blend of ease and insider access, the Escorted Shore Excursion to Pisa with Leaning Tower is a great start. It combines a knowledgeable guide with enough time to enjoy the Leaning Tower and Miracle Square. But if you’re craving a deeper experience—say, visiting Florence’s stunning art and architecture—you’ll want to consider a private tour. Keep reading for the full lineup of the best Pisa shore excursions, so you can pick just the right one for your trip.
1. Livorno: Escorted Shore Excursion to Pisa with Leaning Tower
This tour offers a perfect introduction to Pisa in just four hours. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided experience with a small group, led by an expert who can highlight the city’s most iconic sights. The tour includes admiring the famous Leaning Tower, the Miracle Square, and other key monuments, all with insightful narration.
What makes this experience stand out is the ability to climb the Leaning Tower—a must-do highlight—plus having a guide who shares interesting facts along the way. Guests consistently praise the friendly guides like Alice and Elegant for their knowledge and organization. The price point ($34 per person) offers great value considering the duration and access to the tower. Some reviews mention minor confusion about tickets, but overall guests appreciate the well-planned half-day. This tour is best suited for travelers with limited time who want a structured, hassle-free visit.
Bottom Line: An excellent, budget-friendly way to see Pisa’s top sights with guided commentary and a chance to climb the Tower.
2. Pisa&Florence Shore Excursion from Carrara Port
For those looking to combine two of Tuscany’s most famous cities, this private tour from Carrara offers a flexible, full-day experience. It’s perfect if you want the comfort of a private vehicle and a personalized itinerary. You’ll visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa and then head to Florence’s highlights, including Piazzale Michelangelo, the Cathedral, and Ponte Vecchio.
A major advantage? The tour includes pre-purchased tickets for Pisa’s square. The driver, who doubles as a guide, offers expert narration, making each stop more meaningful. The reviews highlight the professionalism and flexibility of guides like Teresa, Luca, and Diego. Guests love the ability to customize the day, enjoying everything from sightseeing to shopping and gelato stops. The tour’s value is high, especially considering it’s private for up to 8 people at $1,229.23.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups who want a tailored, stress-free day exploring Pisa and Florence in comfort.
3. Private Shore Excursion from Livorno Port: Tuscany Highlights
If you’re seeking a completely customizable Tuscany experience, this private tour from Livorno fits the bill. It’s a flexible, full-day journey that starts the moment you step off your cruise. The itinerary focuses on Pisa’s Leaning Tower and then ventures into nearby towns like San Gimignano, giving you time to explore, shop, and dine at your own pace.
What makes this private experience stand out is the personalized attention—your driver is also your guide, tailoring the trip based on your interests. Reviews rave about guides like Vincenzo, who combines local knowledge with a friendly attitude. The two-hour stop at Pisa is perfect for photo ops and sightseeing, without feeling rushed. The tour costs around $502.81 per person, which is a good deal for those wanting an intimate, flexible day with no group constraints.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a tailored, private day exploring Pisa and Tuscany’s scenic towns, with the freedom to set the pace.
4. Pisa, Pietrasanta & Carrara Caves Shore Excursion from Carrara Port
For those who want to see Carrara’s marble caves plus a taste of Pietrasanta’s Roman ruins and Pisa’s iconic tower, this private full-day tour is a fantastic choice. It’s a carefully curated itinerary that combines art, history, and natural wonder.
The tour begins with a visit to the Fantiscritti Marble Caves, where you’ll see the world’s most famous marble in action. Afterward, you’ll explore Pietrasanta’s Roman and medieval sites, then finish in Pisa with time to stroll around the piazzas and admire the Leaning Tower. The guide is known for making the experience personalized and enjoyable, with reviews praising guides like Sara and Vincenzo.
At approximately $1,047.21 per group, it offers a unique blend of geology, art, and architecture—perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. The tour’s flexibility and the chance to see Carrara’s marble quarries make it especially appealing for art lovers or those interested in Italy’s famous white marble.
Bottom Line: An enriching, all-encompassing day for those keen on marble, Roman ruins, and Pisa’s monuments.
5. Pisa and Florence Port Tour (Driver Only/Self Touring)
This private, self-guided day trip offers the chance to explore Pisa and Florence at your own pace. Your driver will take you between sites but leave the sightseeing decisions to you. This is perfect if you enjoy independent exploration but want the comfort of private transportation.
Highlights include Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli and Florence’s Duomo and Ponte Vecchio—though the guide won’t take you inside those sites. Instead, you have ample time to visit, photograph, and stroll. The reviews commend the driver, Diego, for his knowledge, punctuality, and friendly service. Priced at $1,745.35 for up to 3 people, it’s suited for travelers comfortable navigating on their own but wanting the convenience of private transport.
Bottom Line: Ideal for confident explorers who want to craft their own itinerary in Pisa and Florence with private transport.
$1,745.35 per group (up to 3)
6. Livorno Shore Excursion to Florence and Pisa – Private Day Trip
This full-day private tour from Livorno combines Pisa’s Leaning Tower with Florence’s Renaissance masterpieces. It’s designed for travelers who want an efficient but comprehensive look at both cities, with guided insights into their top sights.
The itinerary includes photo stops at Pisa’s square, a guided walk of Florence’s highlights including the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, plus free time for shopping or lunch. The driver, like Diego, is known for his professionalism and local knowledge. The tour costs $1,447 per group, making it a good value for a full day of personalized service.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want to see Pisa and Florence with a knowledgeable guide, comfortably and efficiently.
How to Choose Your Perfect Pisa Shore Excursion
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and whether you prefer guided or independent exploration. If you want a straightforward experience with someone guiding you through Pisa’s highlights, the Escorted Shore Excursion to Pisa with Leaning Tower offers great value. For a more immersive multi-city adventure, the private Pisa & Florence full-day tour is ideal. And if you’re keen on art, marble quarries, and Roman ruins, the Pisa, Pietrasanta & Carrara Caves** delivers a rich, full experience.
Keep practicalities in mind: budget-minded travelers will appreciate the guided group tours, while those seeking flexibility might prefer private or self-guided options. Book early—especially for tours that include tower climbing or Florence visits—to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
From quick guided visits to full-day private adventures, Pisa offers a range of options tailored for diverse interests and schedules. For a no-fuss introduction, the guided Livorno tour hits the mark. For a more personalized, flexible experience, a private Tuscany Highlights or full-day Florence and Pisa tour might be better suited.
Trust your interests and the pace you prefer—some travelers will cherish chasing marble caves and Roman ruins, others will be happy just soaking in Pisa’s iconic square. Either way, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences in Italy’s Tuscany region.