Discover Lucca and Pisa and Enjoy Buccellato Cake: Full Day Tour

Planning a day trip from Florence that covers some of Tuscany’s most charming medieval towns? This full-day tour offers a convenient way to see Pisa and Lucca without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself. For around $177 per person, you get to visit two iconic cities, enjoy guided insights, and indulge in local delicacies—all packed into a roughly 9 to 10-hour day.

What we really like about this experience is that it’s hassle-free; the round-trip transportation from Florence is included, so you don’t need to worry about navigating Italian trains or buses. Plus, the guided tours of both Pisa and Lucca mean you’ll come away with more than just photos—you’ll understand the stories behind the sights and appreciate the towns’ histories. The Buccellato cake tasting at the end adds a sweet finish to the day.

One potential downside is that some reviews mention inconsistent guiding quality, particularly at the start of the day. If you’re looking for an ultra-personalized or in-depth guided experience, this might feel a bit more like a transportation service with some sightseeing, rather than a fully guided tour from start to finish. But for those who want to cover the main sights quickly and comfortably, it’s a good option.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced taste of Tuscany’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail. It’s especially good for those with limited time but who want to see Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower and Lucca’s medieval walls in one go.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation from Florence makes the day smooth and stress-free.
• Guided tours in Pisa and Lucca provide helpful context and stories.
• The Leaning Tower admission is included, so no extra booking hassle.
• Free time for photos, shopping, and exploring gives flexibility.
• The Buccellato cake tasting is a sweet local treat that visitors love.
• The overall value comes from the convenience of visiting two towns and key sights in one day.

The Perfect Day Out from Florence: Exploring Pisa and Lucca

If you’re visiting Florence and want to see more of Tuscany’s charming towns, this tour might be just what you need. It’s designed to cut out the planning and logistics, leaving you with more time to enjoy the sights, the food, and the atmosphere of Pisa and Lucca.

While Florence itself is stunning, these towns are worth a visit for their distinctive character—Pisa with its world-famous Leaning Tower, and Lucca with its intact medieval walls and cozy streets. This tour provides guided insight into both cities’ histories, architecture, and culture, which is invaluable if you’re not familiar with the area.

What’s Included and How It Works

The tour starts at Piazzale Montelungo in Florence at 9:00 am, where a comfortable bus awaits to take you on the roughly 1-2 hour journey to Pisa. Once in Pisa, the group gets a guided tour of Piazza dei Miracoli, the square that’s home to the Leaning Tower, Baptistery, and Monumental Cemetery. Your ticket inside the Cathedral is included, so you get to see the stunning Romanesque architecture up close.

After exploring Pisa, you’ll have free time for photos and personal exploration—enough to snap those famous shots of the Tower, grab a coffee, or pick up souvenirs. Then, it’s time to head to Lucca, famous for its medieval walls and historic streets.

In Lucca, a local guide will lead you through the old town, highlighting sights like the Guinigi Tower and San Martino Cathedral, as well as walking along a section of the city walls for panoramic views. The highlight for many is the Buccellato cake tasting, which is practically a local custom—”Those who come to Lucca without eating the Buccellato are as if they had never been there,” goes the saying.

How the Day Flows

• First stop: Pisa, with a 1.5-hour guided visit including the Cathedral.
• Second stop: Piazza dei Miracoli, free time for photos and souvenirs.
• Third stop: Lucca, with a guided walk around the old town and city walls.
• Final stop: Buccellato cake tasting, a sweet way to wrap up the day.

The entire experience lasts about 9 to 10 hours, giving you a full but manageable day out. The small group size (up to 20 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, and the timing is structured but flexible enough to enjoy each city without feeling rushed.

Authentic Experiences and Real Opinions

From traveler reviews, the guides are generally praised for their knowledge and helpfulness. Brigitte from her review mentioned, “Sarah, one of the tour guides, is so charming and helpful,” and Mākiela, the local guide in Pisa, was described as very knowledgeable. The views of Lucca from the walls are often singled out as a highlight, with one traveler noting that the town “has a great vibe making it worth seeing.”

However, not all experiences are perfect. Shelley R. had a less positive view, criticizing the escort’s language skills and the time spent in transit versus sightseeing. She said, “She barely spoke English and I couldn’t understand her,” which shows how important it is to have clear communication, especially on a guided trip.

Still, many mention the value for money—covering two historic towns, guided tours, entrance fees, and a tasty local treat—makes the $177 price tag reasonable for a full day of sightseeing.

Transportation: The Backbone of the Tour

The included transportation is a big plus, especially for those who dislike navigating public transport or driving abroad. The bus ride from Florence is comfortable, and the group size keeps it intimate enough for easy coordination. Plus, knowing that you’ll be picked up and dropped off at the same point simplifies logistics, making it ideal for travelers who want a seamless experience.

Timing is well-structured: the tour begins early and ends back in Florence in the evening, allowing plenty of time to relax afterward or explore more on your own.

The Sights and Stops in Detail

Pisa: The Iconic Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli

The highlight here is, of course, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The guided tour includes inside access to the Cathedral, which allows you to see the Romanesque architecture up close and learn about its design. The admission ticket is included, saving you time and money compared to booking separately.

The square itself is stunning, with lush green lawns and historic buildings. The optional free time gives you the chance to snap those famous photos, test out the tilt of the Tower, or simply soak in the atmosphere.

Lucca: Medieval Walls and Cozy Streets

In Lucca, walking along the medieval walls offers a different kind of experience—panoramic views, fresh air, and a sense of stepping back in time. The local guide will take you through the quaint streets, pointing out architecture, shops, and hidden corners.

The Piazza Anfiteatro is a charming circular square built on the site of an ancient Roman amphitheater, filled with cafes and boutiques. The Guinigi Tower with its rooftop garden is also a popular highlight, offering sweeping views of the town.

Buccellato Cake Tasting

The tour concludes with a Buccellato tasting, a traditional Lucchese cake. Known for its sweet, dense flavor, it’s a local delicacy that visitors often remember long after the day ends—so much so that the saying goes, “Those who come to Lucca without eating the Buccellato are as if they had never been there!”

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits travelers with a day to spare from Florence who want an efficient, guided overview of Pisa and Lucca. It’s ideal for those who prefer not to manage their own transport or who appreciate having guides explain the sights in context. If your main goal is to see the Leaning Tower and walk the medieval walls with minimal fuss, this tour delivers.

However, those expecting a highly personalized or in-depth guided experience might find it more rushed or standard. The reviews highlight that some guides are more engaging than others, so your experience may vary.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this tour offers a practical way to tick two Tuscan towns off your list without the headache of planning on your own. It balances guided tours, free exploration time, and local flavors—making it a solid choice for travelers eager to experience Pisa and Lucca in one day.

If you’re someone who values convenience, sightseeing, and a taste of local culture, this trip is worth considering. Just keep in mind that guide quality might vary, and the experience leans more toward easy transportation and sightseeing rather than deeply personalized commentary.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone who wants to see Italy’s well-loved towns, this tour provides a good overview and a memorable day out.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 9:00 am from Piazzale Montelungo in Florence.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Florence is part of the package.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, including travel and sightseeing.

Are the guided tours in Pisa and Lucca included?
Yes, guided tours are included in both cities, along with entry to Pisa’s Cathedral.

Can I explore independently?
Absolutely. The itinerary includes free time in Pisa and Lucca for photos, shopping, or just wandering around.

What’s the highlight of the day?
Most travelers mention the Leaning Tower of Pisa and walking along Lucca’s medieval walls as memorable highlights.

Is the Buccellato cake tasting worth it?
Many agree it’s a delicious local specialty and a sweet way to end the day.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the pace and walking involved.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who is the tour provider?
Italy Adventures organizes this experience. Their contact details include a phone number (+393384958501) and email ([email protected]).