Pisa and Lucca: Private Full-Day Tour by Deluxe Van

If you’re planning a trip to Florence and want to experience some of Tuscany’s most iconic cities without the hassle of navigating on your own, this private full-day tour to Lucca and Pisa might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, I’ve spent enough time in Italy to see how well-organized, enjoyable, and informative tours like these can be—and I’ll share what makes this one stand out, along with some honest thoughts on what to expect.

First off, what I really appreciate about this experience is the focus on comfort and personalized service. Traveling in a deluxe van with a private guide means less time on crowded buses and more time soaking in the sights at your own pace. Plus, the insider tips about Florence and the region are a bonus for anyone who wants a little extra depth beyond just sightseeing.

That said, one potential drawback is that a full day in Tuscany is quite packed, especially if you’re eager to linger longer in each city. If you’re someone who prefers a slower, more relaxed approach, this might feel a bit rushed—though the itinerary does allow for some quality time in key spots.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate comfort, expert guidance, and a curated experience of two of Tuscany’s most famous cities. It’s ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with authentic regional cuisine, all while learning about Italy’s fascinating history from a personable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable private transport ensures a relaxed journey through Tuscany.
• Expert guides offer insights into the regions’ history and culture.
• You’ll visit Lucca’s medieval city walls and enjoy scenic views from Amphitheater Square.
• The lunch at a typical Tuscan restaurant highlights regional cuisine.
• The Pisa visit features the Leaning Tower and Miracle Square, with a focus on Romanesque architecture.
• The tour is flexible enough to include insider tips for your stay in Florence or beyond.

This experience kicks off early in the morning with a hotel pick-up in Florence. From there, you’ll hop into a deluxe van—a step above standard options, offering more comfort and space for your group. The route takes you westward into Tuscany, a region renowned for its charming towns, rolling landscapes, and culinary delights.

The Charm of Lucca

Your first stop is Lucca, a city that often feels like a hidden gem compared to Florence or Pisa. We loved the way the tour emphasizes Lucca’s unique Renaissance city walls—these are one of the few remaining in Italy, and walking atop them offers panoramic views of the city’s rooftops and countryside.

Your guide will lead you through narrow medieval streets, where history feels alive. You might visit the cathedral or Roman ruins, depending on your interests and time. The highlight for many is Amphitheater Square, which offers a perfect vantage point for photos and a chance to relax with a glass of wine. The square’s sculptures, like Andrea Salvettis’ “Mazzolin di Fiori,” add artistic charm.

For opera fans, there’s the option to visit Puccini’s birthplace museum, adding a cultural layer to your visit. The guide is usually very knowledgeable, sharing stories about Lucca’s proud past that predates Rome’s founding, giving you a richer understanding of the city’s significance.

Tuscan Lunch

Midday, you’ll stop at a typical Tuscan restaurant—a chance to enjoy regional specialties. Expect to pay extra for the meal, but many find it worth it for authentic cuisine in a cozy setting. The food usually includes local ingredients and traditional recipes, making it a memorable part of the trip.

The Marvel of Pisa

In the afternoon, it’s time for Pisa, the city most famous for its leaning tower. The impressive Miracle Square (Piazza dei Miracoli) is your main focus. You’ll see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, along with the Baptistry and Cathedral, all architectural masterpieces of Romanesque style.

The guide often shares fascinating tidbits about the construction—started in 1063 and finished around 1350, which seems like a lifetime ago—and explains how Pisa managed to craft such enduring monuments. It’s a chance to marvel at the craftsmanship and imagine how these structures have withstood centuries.

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Insider Tips & Practicalities

Throughout the tour, your guide is happy to offer insider tips for your stay in Florence and the surrounding region. This might include suggestions for restaurants, hidden sights, or local markets—small touches that elevate the experience.

The entire day lasts about 8 hours, with plenty of breaks and time to explore. The group size is private, so it’s tailored to your interests, and the transportation is included with all parking fees, tolls, and gas costs covered—no hidden expenses there.

What Past Travelers Say

One review from a traveler in the US sums it up: “Our guide was very knowledgeable, personable, and extremely helpful. The activity was just what we were looking for.” Such comments highlight the value of having an experienced guide to help interpret what you’re seeing and keep the day flowing smoothly.

When considering the price—while not explicitly stated—you’ll want to evaluate the convenience of private transport, expert local guides, and the included sightseeing stops. Many travelers find that paying a bit more for a personalized experience saves time, reduces stress, and provides greater insight than joining a larger, less focused tour.

The inclusion of lunch adds to the experience, though travelers should budget extra for additional expenses like tips and entrance tickets. The tour is designed to be flexible and informative, making it suitable for those who want a comprehensive yet manageable day in Tuscany.

This experience is great for history buffs, culture lovers, and foodies who appreciate a curated, comfortable way to visit Lucca and Pisa. It’s also perfect if you prefer traveling in a private group, ensuring personalized attention. If you’re short on time but want to maximize your sightseeing in Tuscany, this tour offers a balanced mix of iconic sights and local flavor.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a slower pace or wants to linger longer in each city, you might find the schedule a little tight. Nevertheless, for most, the value of expert guidance, cozy transportation, and a well-rounded itinerary makes this a worthwhile choice.

This Pisa and Lucca private tour offers a thoughtfully planned day through some of Tuscany’s most beloved spots, with the comfort of private transportation and knowledgeable guides. It combines visual marvels like Pisa’s leaning tower with the charm of Lucca’s medieval walls and quiet streets, making it a well-rounded experience.

Travelers who enjoy learning about Italy’s history and architecture alongside delicious regional cuisine will find plenty to love here. The personalized nature of the tour means you can ask questions and tailor the experience a bit, which adds to the overall value.

While it’s a full day, most find the pace manageable and the insights gained worthwhile. It’s especially suited for those who want a hassle-free, informative, and comfortable way to see Tuscany’s highlights—perfect for first-timers or those short on time but eager to soak in the region’s essence.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it can be suitable for older children or teens interested in history and architecture. Keep in mind that it involves a full day of sightseeing and walking, so younger kids might get tired.

How long is the total duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, starting early in the morning with hotel pickup and ending in the late afternoon or early evening.

Are meals included in the tour price?
No, the lunch is at a typical Tuscan restaurant and requires an additional payment. It’s a great opportunity to try regional dishes, but budget extra for the meal, tips, and entrance tickets.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a deluxe private van, which offers more space and comfort than standard options. Parking fees, tolls, and gas are included, so you won’t need to worry about extra charges during transit.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide is usually flexible and can tailor some aspects based on your interests or timing needs—feel free to ask!

What’s the guide’s role during the tour?
Your guide will provide commentary on the sights, share insider tips, and help you make the most of your visit to each city. They’re generally very knowledgeable and personable.

How far are Lucca and Pisa from Florence?
Both cities are accessible via a short drive from Florence, with the tour covering the travel time in the 8-hour schedule. The route is designed for convenience and efficiency.

This tour strikes a good balance between comfort, culture, and practical logistics, making it a great pick for anyone eager to see Tuscany’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or large tour groups.

You can check availability for your dates here: