Florence: Pisa and Lucca Private Day Trip

Planning a day trip from Florence to explore Tuscany’s most charming cities? This private tour focusing on Pisa and Lucca offers a wonderfully balanced mix of iconic sights and leisurely streets. With a dedicated driver and guide, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and a flexible itinerary that suits your pace.

What we love about this experience is the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, removing the hassle of figuring out transportation. The private group setting guarantees a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of local commentary makes history and architecture come alive. Plus, the chance to explore two very different cities in one day makes this a practical choice for travelers short on time.

One thing to consider is the price, which is around $666 for up to eight people. For some, that might seem steep, but factoring in private transportation, guided insights, and skipping the crowds that come with group tours, it could well be worth the investment.

This tour suits travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and a chance to see the highlights of Pisa and Lucca without the stress of self-guided navigation. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting a curated experience, or those who prefer a more relaxed, informative day with fewer crowds.

Good To Know

• Private and personalized: A private group ensures a tailored, less hurried experience.
• Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving time and hassle.
• Iconic landmarks: Visit Pisa’s Leaning Tower and explore Lucca’s charming streets.
• Flexible pace: Ample time at each site for photos, browsing, and soaking in atmosphere.
• Local insights: Live commentary enriches your understanding of each location.
• Cost: At around $666 for up to 8 people, it offers good value considering the private transport and guided experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Florence

Your day begins with hotel pickup in Florence, a stress-free start that means you won’t need to worry about navigating public transport or parking. The comfortable air-conditioned minivan is a great way to relax during the drive and chat with your guide about what’s ahead. With a private group, the experience feels more tailored, and there’s room to ask questions or adjust timing slightly if needed.

Pisa: The Iconic Leaning Tower

The first stop, Pisa, is approximately an hour from Florence. Once you arrive, you’ll have around two hours to explore the Piazza dei Miracoli, where the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa dominates the skyline. Visitors often marvel at how such an architectural anomaly can remain standing for centuries. Your guide will share stories about its construction, the famous tilt, and the ongoing efforts to preserve it.

You can wander around the cathedral, known as the Duomo, and peek into the Baptistery or Cemetery to get a fuller picture of the site’s religious and cultural significance. Entry to the Tower isn’t included—there’s an additional fee of around 20 EUR payable on the spot—but many travelers find the view from the top worth it.

Transition to Lucca

After Pisa, a 45-minute drive takes you to Lucca. This city offers a very different vibe—less touristy, more authentic. You’ll have about three hours to explore its charming streets, with highlights like the 16th-century city walls and the Church of San Michele in Foro. We loved the way Lucca’s walls are still intact, providing a perfect setting for a leisurely walk or bike ride, offering panoramic views of the rooftops below.

Your guide will point out local spots, share stories about Lucca’s history, and highlight its unique features. Many reviews mention how peaceful and inviting the streets are, especially compared to more crowded destinations.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Returning to Florence

After a full day of sightseeing, the journey back takes about 75 minutes, giving you time to relax and reflect on your day. Your private drop-off in Florence means you can unwind without the stress of public transport schedules.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in an air-conditioned minivan ensures comfort, especially during the warmer months. The private aspect means no need to share with strangers, and the timing is flexible enough to suit your preferences if discussed beforehand.

Guided Experience

Having a live guide—who speaks Italian, English, and Spanish—adds depth to your visit. You’ll learn fascinating details about each site, beyond what a self-guided tour could offer. The guide also answers questions and can tailor the commentary to your interests.

Authentic Local Insights

The reviews highlight how guides like Luca make the trip more meaningful. According to a traveler, Luca was “so pleasant and informative,” which made the entire day more enjoyable. These personal touches often include lesser-known facts or tips on where to find the best gelato or local eateries.

Cost and Value

While $666 might seem a bit high at first glance, keep in mind this covers transportation, guide services, and the convenience of a private group. If you’re traveling with a small group or family, the per-person cost actually becomes quite reasonable.

Flexibility and Timing

The tour runs approximately 8 hours, with starting times that can be checked in advance. This allows you to customize your day—whether you want a slightly earlier start or to linger longer in one city.

Additional Practical Details

• What to bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for capturing those picture-perfect moments, and water to stay hydrated.
• Not suitable for: People with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as walking and some uneven surfaces are involved.
• Language options: Guides speak Italian, English, and Spanish, making the experience accessible for many travelers.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip from Florence to Pisa and Lucca offers a well-rounded experience of Tuscany’s highlights, with the comfort and flexibility that many travelers seek. The combination of iconic sights, authentic streets, and personalized guidance makes it a compelling choice for those who want more than just a bus ride.

The tour is particularly suited for small groups or families who value tailored experiences and appreciate having a local guide share stories and insights. It’s also ideal for travelers aiming to maximize their sightseeing in a single day without the hassle of navigating on their own.

While the price may be a consideration, the overall value lies in the convenience, personalized service, and the chance to explore two captivating cities on your terms. If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and memorable day in Tuscany, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Florence, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

How long is the drive between Florence and Pisa?
The drive takes about 1 hour in a private, air-conditioned minivan, providing a smooth journey without the need for public transport.

How much time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have about 2 hours in Pisa and 3 hours in Lucca, giving enough time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

What are the main sights in Pisa?
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Cathedral, the Cemetery, and the Baptistery are the key landmarks in the Piazza dei Miracoli.

Can I visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
Yes, but an entrance fee of around 20 EUR is payable on the spot if you choose to go up the tower. The tour itself covers the outside views and surrounding monuments.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for travelers who can walk comfortably; it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and uneven surfaces.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides speak Italian, English, and Spanish, accommodating a wide range of travelers.

How flexible is the schedule?
Start times are available to check in advance, and the itinerary can be slightly adjusted within the day to suit your preferences.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and water—especially if visiting during the summer months.

This private tour strikes a nice balance between visiting the must-see landmarks and enjoying some free time to soak in the charm of Tuscany’s lesser-known delights. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a personalized, relaxed, and enriching day out from Florence.

You can check if your dates are available here: