Day Tour Pisa and Florence from La Spezia Cruise Port (Price Per Car)

If you’re cruising into La Spezia and itching to see Florence and Pisa in a day, this private tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve looked into what makes it tick and what travelers are saying about it. It promises a smooth ride in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, ample free time for sights, and a relaxed pace—things that can really make a day trip feel special.

What I love about this tour is the personalized experience it offers. You’re not stuck with a huge bus or a strict schedule—you get a private driver who’s at your disposal, which means more flexibility and less rushing. Plus, the drive through the Tuscan countryside alone is a treat, often offering lovely views along the way. On the flip side, it’s not cheap, and some travelers have expressed frustrations about the organization, so it’s worth weighing whether the price aligns with your expectations.

This tour is best suited for those who want a convenient, private day trip and don’t mind paying a premium for comfort and flexibility. If you’re traveling with a group of up to seven and enjoy the idea of skipping public transport or large tours, this could be a good fit. But if you’re someone who prefers booking multiple tickets in advance for museums or is on a tight budget, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Flexible, private experience tailored to your schedule
• Comfortable transport with Wi-Fi and air conditioning
• Allows free exploration time to soak in Florence and Pisa at your own pace
• Includes scenic drive through Tuscany countryside
• Cost is higher but reflects personalized service and convenience
• Not bundled with museum tickets or meals, so consider additional planning

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a good balance of structure and freedom. You’re picked up at La Spezia’s cruise terminal and driven in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi—an important detail if you want to stay connected or share your pictures on the go. The entire trip lasts roughly 9 hours, which, considering travel and sightseeing, is quite manageable for a shore excursion.

The Drive and Scenic Views

The 2-hour drive from La Spezia to Florence is a pleasant part of the experience. You’ll get glimpses of Tuscany’s rolling hills and charming towns, making the journey part of the adventure. Having your own driver means you can ask to stop for photos or to stretch your legs, and the vehicle’s comfort is a definite plus, especially during warmer months.

Florence Highlights

Once in Florence, you’re free to explore the city on your own terms. The tour mentions key sights like the Piazza della Signoria, home to the Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi, as well as the Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo. While the itinerary suggests these are pass-by points, the real value is in the freedom to walk around at your own pace. You can pop into shops, grab a coffee, or just soak in the architecture.

One review highlights how the guide (or driver) points out highlights and shares tidbits of history, which adds context without the rush of a group tour. You’ll love the chance to wander the charming streets, visit landmarks, or find a cozy spot for lunch.

Pisa and the Leaning Tower

After Florence, the journey continues to Pisa, where you’ll see the iconic Leaning Tower and the surrounding “Square of Miracles.” The tour notes you’ll have time to view the Duomo, Baptistery, and Camposanto, capturing that classic Pisa shot. Since museum tickets aren’t included, you might find yourself spending extra if you want to go inside these sites, but the exterior views are enough for most travelers to marvel at.

How the Reviews Inform This Experience

One happy traveler called their guide “fantastic,” mentioning how knowledgeable and professional they were, pointing out highlights and sharing insights. Contrasting that, another disappointed customer waited at the meeting point and felt the organization was lacking—so punctuality and communication seem to be key factors to consider.

Is It Worth the Cost?

At nearly $1,200 per group, this isn’t a cheap outing. But when you think about the private transportation, the flexibility, and the convenience of avoiding public transport or multiple bookings, it might be worth it—especially for small groups or families who value comfort. Some travelers feel the experience is more about how much they enjoy the day, rather than ticking off sights, since they have the freedom to customize their time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you prefer a more relaxed, personalized experience, and want to avoid the crowds or the hassle of navigating alone, this tour could be a good choice. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize sightseeing without feeling pushed into a rigid schedule. It’s also a solid pick if you appreciate comfortable transport and Wi-Fi on the go.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

If you’re on a strict budget or prefer to plan your own museum visits, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re expecting a guided tour inside the museums or historical commentary, this option may feel light on that aspect since you have free time to explore on your own.

The Bottom Line

This private tour from La Spezia seems well-suited for travelers who want convenience and flexibility. It offers a comfortable ride, scenic views, and enough free time to soak in Florence and Pisa at your pace. The main selling points are the personalized nature of the trip and the comfort of private transportation, making it a standout for those seeking a stress-free day off the ship.

However, the price tag is notable, and the experience’s overall value depends on your expectations for guided commentary versus free exploration. If you’re comfortable with a bit of self-guided wandering and appreciate private transportation, this could be a practical choice.

Final Advice

Make sure to clarify what’s included (notably museum tickets if you want inside access). Be prepared for the possibility of organizational hiccups, as some reviews suggest. If you’re someone who enjoys customized sightseeing and values a smooth, connected journey, this tour probably checks those boxes.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the price covers private, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi.

Can I choose what sites to visit?
The tour offers free time in Florence and Pisa, so you can explore sites on your own during that period.

Are museum tickets included?
No, tickets to inside museums or landmarks are not included, so plan extra if you want inside access.

How long is the drive from La Spezia?
It’s about a 2-hour drive to Florence, with scenic views of the Tuscan countryside.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is private and offers flexibility, it mainly involves walking and sightseeing, so consider your family’s pace and interests.

What is the group size?
It’s a private experience for up to 7 people, so you won’t be sharing with strangers.

What are the main highlights?
Florence’s historic center, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, Duomo, and Pisa’s Leaning Tower and Square of Miracles.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s private, your driver is at your disposal to show or skip certain sites based on your preferences.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, full refund, which offers some peace of mind if plans change.

If you’re after a flexible, comfortable way to see Florence and Pisa without the hassle of large group tours or complex logistics, this private La Spezia trip might be just what you need. Just weigh the cost against the value of personalized service and freedom to explore at your own pace.