PRIVATE Full-Day Pisa and Lucca GUIDED Tour from Florence

If you’re planning a trip to Florence and want to see more of Tuscany’s iconic towns, this private full-day tour to Pisa and Lucca might be just what you need. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and thoughtful design suggest it offers a solid way to experience some of Tuscany’s most beloved sights without the stress of planning every detail.

What really catches our eye about this experience are the personalized attention—since it’s a private tour, you’re not navigating crowds or trying to catch up with a large group. Plus, the expert guides seem to bring history and local stories to life, making the sights more meaningful. A notable bonus is the flexibility: the tour includes hotel pickup and a private vehicle, making your day smooth from start to finish.

Of course, there are a few things to consider. The price tag is on the higher side—almost $1,000 per person—so this might be a better fit for travelers who value comfort and expert insight over budget options. Also, the tour skips certain experiences like the tower climb unless you reserve in advance, which is worth keeping in mind if that’s a must-see for you.

This tour seems best suited for history buffs, small groups, and those seeking a personalized, hassle-free day exploring Tuscany’s most famous towns. If you want a deep dive into Pisa and Lucca without the fuss, this could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Private experience means personalized attention and fewer crowds
• Expert guides bring historical context and local insights
• Comfortable transportation in a private Mercedes Benz minivan
• Flexible scheduling and hotel pickup make for a smooth day
• Skip-the-line options are available for the tower climb with advance booking
• Family-friendly? Not specified, but children over 8 can visit the tower with reservation

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins at 9:00 am, with pick-up arranged directly at your Florence hotel or an address of your choosing. This is a big plus if you prefer not to worry about navigating public transport or finding meeting points. The driver, who is very familiar with Tuscany, will be your guide in many ways—sharing stories, answering questions, and ensuring your comfort.

The Drive to Pisa

The journey to Pisa is about an hour in a private Mercedes Benz minivan, which sounds both comfortable and efficient. We love that your time on the road is maximized for sightseeing rather than logistics. During the drive, your guide will likely share background info, setting the scene for what you’ll see at the iconic Piazza dei Miracoli.

Exploring Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli

Once arrived, your guide takes you through Pisa’s historic suburbs before arriving at the famous square. Here, the beauty of the Piazza dei Miracoli truly shines—lush green grass, the towering Baptistery, the magnificent Duomo, and of course, the Leaning Tower. Picturesque and evocative, this spot is a showcase of medieval architecture and Italian craftsmanship.

In the reviews, travelers mention the passionate and knowledgeable guides who make the experience more meaningful. One reviewer said, “Alex and Monica were great with lots of information! Very passionate about their country.” While the tower climb isn’t included in the base price, you can reserve tickets for about €18, which is a manageable add-on if you want that experience. Keep in mind, children under 8 aren’t allowed to climb, which may influence families with younger kids.

Walking Through Pisa

Your guide’s narration turns this visit into a rich story. You’ll explore the monumental area of Pisa and see the famous Leaning Tower from different angles. People often take playful photos pretending to hold up the tower, which adds a fun element to the visit. The guide will also walk you through the historic gates and city walls, giving you a sense of Pisa’s medieval defenses.

Transition to Lucca

After about two hours in Pisa, the tour continues to Lucca, approximately a 30-minute drive. This medieval town is beloved for its well-preserved Renaissance-era walls, which you’ll get to walk or bike on. The atmosphere here is less crowded and more intimate compared to Pisa, and it’s easy to see why so many find Lucca charming.

Strolling Lucca’s Streets and Piazzas

Your guide will take you through Lucca’s narrow streets and lively piazzas, sharing stories about its role on the Via Francigena route—a historic pilgrimage path. This part of the tour lets you soak in authentic local life, admire medieval architecture, and perhaps browse some boutiques or stop for a coffee.

Notable Attractions in Lucca

• Piazza Anfiteatro: Built on Roman ruins, it’s a lively square perfect for photos and lunch. Reviewers love it’s vibrant and historically rich.
• Torre Guinigi: This tower is famous for its hanging garden at the top, offering panoramic views of Lucca and the surrounding countryside. Keep in mind, visiting the tower costs extra and isn’t included in the base price.
• San Michele in Foro: A stunning basilica dating back to the year 1000, with priceless artworks and a striking statue of Archangel Michael.
• Duomo di San Martino: The spiritual heart of Lucca, founded by Irish Bishop San Frediano, with significant historical importance.
• Le Mura di Lucca: The city walls are a highlight—walking or biking atop them offers a unique perspective of the town.

Lunch and Free Time

The tour includes about 30 minutes at Piazza Anfiteatro, where many choose to enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants. While the tour itself doesn’t include lunch, the area’s vibrant eateries make it an ideal spot to relax and refuel.

Final Stretch and Return

After exploring Lucca, the driver will take you back to Florence. The full day totals approximately 9 hours, balancing sightseeing, walking, and travel time. Our review mentions that this kind of structured schedule makes sure you see the highlights without feeling rushed.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour is well-suited for history lovers and those who prefer a tailored experience. The knowledgeable guides bring each place alive, and the private setting means you can ask questions and go at your own pace. It’s also ideal for travelers who value convenience, as hotel pick-up and drop-off are included.

However, keep in mind that the cost might be prohibitive for budget travelers. If you’re traveling with children under 8 who want to climb the tower, you’ll need to book that separately. Also, those looking for a more active or flexible day might find the schedule a bit tight, but overall it offers a comprehensive look at these two towns.

The Bottom Line

This private Pisa and Lucca tour offers an elegant way to see some of Tuscany’s most notable sights without the hassle of driving or navigating public transportation. The expert guides and personalized approach give it an edge, especially if you’re keen to learn about the history and architecture behind these landmarks.

While the price is on the higher side, the comfort, flexibility, and insider knowledge could make it worthwhile—particularly if you’re celebrating a special trip or want a stress-free day. The tour’s mix of grand monuments and charming streets captures the essence of Tuscany: timeless, beautiful, and full of stories waiting to be uncovered.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, you will be picked up directly at your hotel or provided address in Florence at the start of the tour.

Can I climb the Leaning Tower?
You can reserve tickets for the tower climb at the time of booking, 7 days in advance. The cost is €18 per person, and children under 8 are not allowed to climb.

How long is the drive from Florence to Pisa?
The drive is about one hour in a private Mercedes Benz minivan.

Is food included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of restaurants in Piazza Anfiteatro in Lucca where you can dine.

What’s the duration of the entire tour?
The tour lasts around 9 hours, making for a full and leisurely day of sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-oriented, children over 8 can participate in the tower visit. The tour’s pace and attractions are generally suitable for mature children.

How many people can join?
This is a private tour for up to 7 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

What language are the guides fluent in?
While not explicitly stated, the guides are described as expert and knowledgeable, likely fluent in English and possibly other languages.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, stress-free way to explore Pisa and Lucca with expert guides and personalized service, this tour sounds like a great pick. Just keep an eye on the details like tower tickets and lunch plans to make the most of your day.