Florence is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and Renaissance charm, making it a perfect destination for shore excursions. Whether you dream of snapping a selfie next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa or wandering past masterpieces in the Uffizi, Florence offers a variety of ways to experience its highlights. Some tours, like the Livorno Shore Excursion: Pisa and Florence Private Day Trip, combine the iconic leaning tower with a personalized visit to Florence’s historic center, perfect for travelers who want flexibility and comfort. Others, like the Pisa and Florence: Shore Excursion from La Spezia Cruise Port, offer a private, hassle-free experience with luxury transport and sightseeing from a different port of departure. For those seeking a more intimate, tailored day, private tours from Livorno or La Spezia are excellent options, providing customized itineraries and the chance to skip crowds.
In this list, you’ll find a mix of private, small-group, and larger-group tours. Some focus on exploring Florence’s artistic masterpieces with skip-the-line tickets, while others combine scenic drives through Tuscan countryside and charming villages. Each offers a different approach depending on your interests, pace, and budget. Now, let’s explore each option in detail.
1. Livorno Shore Excursion: Pisa and Florence Private Day Trip
Make the most of your time in port with this private day trip that combines Pisa and Florence from Livorno. It’s ideal for travelers who want personalized attention and the flexibility to explore at their own pace. Your journey begins with round-trip transportation directly from your cruise ship, saving you the hassle of navigating on your own. You can opt to explore on your own with a driver or add a guide and skip-the-line museum tickets to maximize your experience.
The tour’s highlights include a visit to Pisa’s Cathedral and Baptistery, with plenty of time to take photos of the famous Leaning Tower. Afterward, you’ll head to Florence’s historic center, home to landmarks like the Duomo. The itinerary is customizable: some guests choose to skip the lines at top museums, while others prefer guided explanations of Florence’s landmarks. Reviews praise the driver Leo for being “awesome” and the overall experience as “fantastic,” with travelers appreciating the early access to Pisa and the relaxed exploration in Florence.
Bottom Line: This private tour balances convenience, flexibility, and personalized service. It’s perfect if you want to see both Pisa and Florence with minimal stress, especially when time is limited.
2. Pisa and Florence: Shore Excursion from La Spezia Cruise Port
Ideal for those arriving at La Spezia, this tour offers round-trip transport and a well-rounded overview of Pisa and Florence in about 9 hours. The highlight is a private driver who takes you directly from La Spezia to Pisa for a quick driving tour and photo stop at the Piazza dei Miracoli, giving you a glimpse of the Leaning Tower and the cathedral. Then, it’s straight to Florence, where several hours are dedicated to exploring on your own.
This tour is distinguished by its comfortable luxury minivan with onboard Wi-Fi, making the trip both relaxing and connected. Reviews confirm that the driver Matteo was “very knowledgeable,” and travelers enjoyed the flexibility to explore Florence and Pisa at their own pace. The stop at Piazzale Michelangelo offers incredible panoramic views of Florence, a highlight for photography buffs. The trip is best suited for independent-minded travelers who want a smooth, guided transfer with free time in each city.
Bottom Line: This hassle-free, private transfer with flexible sightseeing time is perfect if you prefer to explore independently but want the comfort of door-to-door service.
3. Pisa and Florence Shore Excursion from Livorno Port
If you’re after a more personalized experience with fewer crowds, this private tour from Livorno is a great pick. It’s designed for small groups up to eight people, allowing for more intimacy and flexibility. The trip begins with port pickup, then heads straight to Pisa for a quick visit to see the Leaning Tower, Pisa Cathedral, and Baptistery—with admission tickets not included but available to purchase on-site.
Once in Florence, your driver will stop at Piazzale Michelangelo, giving you time for photos and a chance to enjoy sweeping views of the city. Then, a short visit to Piazza Santa Croce allows for a look at its famous tombs, including Michelangelo’s. The itinerary also includes time at Piazza della Repubblica for exploring and grabbing a quick bite. Guests say the tour is well-paced and the driver is “knowledgeable and accommodating.” The focus on small-group comfort makes this ideal for travelers wanting a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for intimate groups seeking a flexible, stress-free day that covers Florence and Pisa without feeling rushed.
4. Full Day Florence Private Shore Excursion from Livorno Port
For those who want the full Florence experience, this full-day private tour offers a comprehensive look at the city’s highlights. Traveling in a private Mercedes, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo before exploring its most famous landmarks. Your guide will walk you through Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and other major sites, offering insights into Florence’s artistic and political history.
This tour stands out for its personalized attention and flexibility—adjust the pace or focus on particular sites that interest you most. Guests rave about guides who are “knowledgeable and fun,” with some mentioning the tour’s ability to combine sightseeing with authentic local atmosphere. It’s well-suited for travelers craving a private, immersive experience without the crowds. The price reflects the full-day nature and private service, making it a good value for those who want a deep dive into Florence’s core.
Bottom Line: Highly recommended for travelers who want a personalized, in-depth tour of Florence’s top sights in comfort and style.
5. Full Day Florence Private Shore Excursion from La Spezia
This private full-day tour from La Spezia offers an in-depth exploration of Florence with a private driver and guide. Starting with the impressive Piazza della Signoria, you’ll then cross the Ponte Vecchio for views of the Arno River. Inside the Piazza del Duomo, marvel at the cathedral’s façade and dome, with plenty of time to appreciate its artistry.
The tour’s flexibility allows you to tailor your visit, focusing on art, architecture, or local neighborhoods. Guests highlight the expert guide and the luxury vehicle as major pluses, making the day both comfortable and informative. The itinerary includes stops at major landmarks, with enough free time for personal exploration. This is best suited for travelers who prefer a private, customizable experience with streamlined logistics.
Bottom Line: For those who want a tailored, private day exploring Florence with a knowledgeable guide, this tour delivers on comfort and flexibility.
6. Shore excursion from Florence to San Gimignano and Siena
If Tuscan towns are your top priority, this private day trip from Florence is hard to beat. It takes you from the medieval towers of San Gimignano to the historic streets of Siena, with a delicious lunch at a local trattoria in between. The tour is personal and flexible—your driver will customize the timing to suit your pace.
Guests love the opportunity to explore San Gimignano’s narrow streets and towers, and the chance to see Siena’s famous Piazza del Campo. The tour emphasizes authentic local experiences and is perfect for travelers wanting to combine sightseeing with tasting Tuscan cuisine. All reviews mention the driver’s knowledge and the peaceful pace, making it suitable for those who prefer a relaxed day rather than a whirlwind.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for lovers of medieval towns, authentic food, and scenic countryside.
7. Shore Excursion from Livorno Cruise Port to Pisa Leaning Tower & Florence
This private tour offers the classic combo of Pisa and Florence in about 8 hours. It focuses on seeing Pisa’s main square, with time for photos by the Leaning Tower and a quick look at the cathedral. Then, you’re driven to Florence, where you can explore independently or upgrade to a guided tour.
In Florence, highlights include Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, and the Accademia Gallery with skip-the-line tickets to Michelangelo’s David. Many reviewers praise the driver for being “friendly and knowledgeable,” and the flexible schedule makes it suitable for travelers who want a mix of guided and independent sightseeing.
Bottom Line: An efficient, classic tour that combines the two most iconic cities with options for guided or self-guided exploration.
8. La Spezia: Florence and Pisa Full Day Shore Excursion
This tour covers Florence and Pisa with a guided walking tour of Florence’s main monuments and free time in each city. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want a structured day with professional guiding, but it has mixed reviews (average 2.8/5) indicating some inconsistency in experience.
Highlights include Piazza dei Miracoli for Pisa and the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio in Florence. The itinerary is fairly straightforward, with scheduled visits and some free time, making it suited for travelers seeking guided insights without the high cost of private tours.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly option that provides guided visits but may lack the intimacy of private tours.
9. La Spezia: Florence Shore Excursion with Academia Museum
This short 9-hour trip focuses on visiting Florence’s key sites and the Academia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David. It includes transport from La Spezia, with a focus on art and culture, and is suitable for those who want to combine sightseeing with a guaranteed museum visit.
The review scores are lower (2.2/5), but the inclusion of skip-the-line tickets and guided commentary makes it appealing for art lovers. It’s a straightforward, organized day with a focus on Florence’s artistic highlights.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers specifically eager to see David and other Renaissance treasures with minimal hassle.
How to Choose Your Florence Shore Excursion
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. Private tours like the Livorno Private Day Trip give maximum flexibility, ideal for couples or small groups who want personalized experiences. The La Spezia private transfer suits independent explorers who prefer ease and comfort.
If art is your priority, tours focusing on museums and skip-the-line tickets, such as the Florence with Academia Museum or full-day Florence experience, are excellent choices. For those who want a broader taste of Tuscany, the San Gimignano and Siena trip offers a scenic journey through charming towns.
Booking early is advisable—especially in peak season—to secure your preferred time and tour style.
In summary, Florence’s shore excursions range from private, tailored experiences to guided group tours, allowing you to choose based on your pace, interests, and budget. For a deep dive into art, a private guide can make Michelangelo’s David more meaningful. If panoramic views and independent exploration appeal, guided transfers or self-guided walks work well. No matter your style, planning ahead will ensure you make the most of your precious port time.
