Pisa and Lucca Shore Excursion from Livorno Port

If you’re planning a stop in Livorno and want to make the most of your time exploring Tuscany’s most charming cities, a private tour of Pisa and Lucca might just be the best way to go. We’ve looked into a highly-rated option that offers a personalized experience, allowing you to see the iconic Leaning Tower and the medieval streets of Lucca without the rush or crowds of larger group tours. This kind of experience is perfect if you’re after a flexible itinerary with the comfort of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

What really caught our eye about this tour is how it combines the must-see sights with the option to indulge in a bit of local flavor through an optional wine and olive oil tasting at a countryside estate. Plus, the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off from Livorno’s port makes it appealing for those on a cruise or tight schedule. The only thing to keep in mind? Since some of the attractions’ tickets aren’t included, you might want to budget for entrance fees. Otherwise, this tour seems well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized day exploring Tuscany’s highlights.

Key Points

• Personalized private tour with flexible timing
• Includes transportation in a comfortable Mercedes minivan
• Highlights are Pisa’s Leaning Tower and Lucca’s medieval streets
• Optional wine and olive oil tasting available
• Ideal for first-time visitors wanting an efficient day trip
• Good for travelers who value guided insights and convenience

A Detailed Look at the Pisa and Lucca Shore Excursion

If you’re considering a visit to Tuscany’s most picturesque cities while docked in Livorno, a private tour like this offers a great way to see the highlights without the hassle of navigating on your own. The small-group feel (up to 8 people) combined with a dedicated guide ensures you get that personalized touch, which is a key reason many travelers prefer private tours over large bus groups.

Ease and Convenience of Pickup and Drop-off

Starting right at Livorno’s Biglietteria Traghetti Moby, your guide and driver are ready to whisk you off in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes minivan. This drop-off-and-pickup service is a major perk, especially if you want to maximize your time rather than wasting it on public transportation or navigating complicated routes. Plus, the tour operates on a flexible schedule—lasting from about 5 to 8 hours—so you can choose how long to spend in each city.

What to Expect on the Itinerary

Stop 1: Pisa’s Miracles Square & The Leaning Tower

Your day kicks off at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, a photo opportunity that’s truly unforgettable. You’ll see the tower and the surrounding buildings in the Miracle Square, including the Cathedral and Baptistery. While admission tickets aren’t included, just standing in this famous square and soaking in the atmosphere makes for a memorable moment. The tour lasts around an hour here, enough to admire the architecture and snap a few good shots.

Stop 2: Exploring Pisa’s Historic Heart

Next, you’ll visit the Duomo di San Martino, dedicated to St. Martin. This part of the tour takes about three hours and includes sights like the Art Nouveau shops along Via Fillungo, the remnants of the Roman Amphitheater, and the Foro Romano—Lucca’s oldest square of Roman origin and the birthplace of Giacomo Puccini. While tickets aren’t included for these attractions, your guide will point out the highlights and share stories that bring the city’s history alive.

Stop 3: The Roman Heart of Lucca

After Pisa, you’ll head to Lucca, a city that feels like stepping back in time. Your guide will take you to San Michele in Foro, a lively Roman church located in the city’s center. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, but a fantastic spot for photos and to appreciate Lucca’s ancient roots.

Stop 4: Piazza dei Cavalieri

Finally, you’ll visit Piazza dei Cavalieri, arguably one of the most charming squares in Pisa, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance. It’s a brief stop but one that captures the essence of Tuscan medieval city life.

Optional Add-On: Wine and Olive Oil Tasting

For a bit of extra indulgence, you can choose to extend the tour with a visit to a countryside estate for tastings. This adds a layer of local flavor, allowing you to sample Tuscany’s renowned wines and extra-virgin olive oils. Although this incurs an additional fee, many find it’s well worth the experience, especially if you enjoy culinary treats.

The Experience of the Transportation

Traveling in a private Mercedes minivan means comfort, quiet, and a stress-free ride. You’ll appreciate the air conditioning on warm days and the flexibility of the schedule. The driver is also your guide, offering insights and answering questions along the way.

What Travelers Say

One recent reviewer, Amy, described her experience as “a great tour of Lucca and saw the Leaning Tower of Pisa,” adding that she particularly loved the lunch with wine and olive oil tasting at a farm in Tuscany. Her positive feedback highlights how this tour balances sightseeing with some authentic local experiences. She also appreciated the professionalism of the guide, Leonardo, who made the day both informative and enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private excursion is particularly suited for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive and hassle-free way to see Pisa and Lucca. If you’re a couple, a small family, or a group of friends, you’ll benefit from the flexibility and personalized attention. It’s ideal if you prefer to avoid large group tours and want to spend your time at your own pace, with the comfort of private transport and a guide who can tailor the experience to your interests.

Price and Value

At around $957 for up to 8 people, this tour might seem pricey at first glance. However, when you consider the private transport, guided insights, and the convenience of door-to-door service, it represents good value—especially if you’re traveling with a group splitting the cost. Plus, the added option of wine and olive oil tasting enhances the experience, making it a day to remember.

Final Thoughts

This Pisa and Lucca shore excursion offers a well-rounded, personalized way to explore two of Tuscany’s most charming cities. The private transportation and guides mean you can focus on enjoying the sights without worrying about logistics, while the flexibility lets you customize your day. Whether you’re seeing Italy for the first time or just want a relaxed, curated experience, this tour makes a lot of sense.

While it doesn’t include entrance tickets to major sites—which could be an extra cost—you’ll still get plenty of time to admire the sights and learn from knowledgeable guides. The optional tasting is a lovely bonus for food lovers, adding a delicious touch to an already memorable day.

If you’re after a smooth, insightful, and comfortable way to experience Pisa and Lucca on your cruise or short visit, this tour checks many boxes. Just be prepared for some additional costs if you want to visit inside certain attractions, and remember that the pace is moderate—perfect for those who want to enjoy, not just see.

FAQs

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at Livorno’s Biglietteria Traghetti Moby, making it super convenient.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 to 8 hours, depending on how much time you choose to spend at each stop.

Are tickets to attractions included?
No, admission tickets are not included for sites like the Leaning Tower and the Duomo, so plan to purchase those separately if you want inside access.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility to adjust the timing or include additional stops, like the wine and oil tasting.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the pace and walking involved. It’s not specifically designed for children, but nothing about it prevents family participation.

What is the group size?
Up to 8 people, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The description doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to inquire directly if needed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a camera are essential. Also, consider bringing some cash for entrance fees or tips.

How much should I budget for entrance tickets?
Since tickets aren’t included, you might find it helpful to budget around €15-€20 for the Leaning Tower and other sites if you plan to go inside.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
It’s designed for groups up to 8, so solo travelers can join, but it might be more cost-effective for groups or couples.

This private tour of Pisa and Lucca offers a smart way to experience Tuscany’s highlights comfortably and flexibly. With knowledgeable guides, personalized attention, and optional local tastings, it’s a solid pick for anyone wanting an authentic yet hassle-free day exploring these beautiful cities.