From Florence: 2-Day Combo Tour to Pisa, Cinque Terre & Tuscany

Discover Italy’s Best in Just Two Days: Florence’s 2-Day Combo Tour to Pisa, Cinque Terre & Tuscany

If you’re dreaming of packing a lot into a short visit to Italy, this 2-day combo tour from Florence might just be your answer. It promises to give you a taste of Italy’s iconic sights—leaning towers, colorful seaside villages, and rolling Tuscan hills—all with the convenience of guided logistics and comfortable transport. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to tick off must-see spots or someone craving a well-organized trip that covers a lot without the stress, this tour is worth considering.

What we love about this experience are the seamless combination of coast and countryside—you get the best of both worlds without the hassle of planning multiple trips. Plus, the expert guides and thoughtfully curated stops mean you’re not just rushing through places; you’re getting meaningful moments and great photo ops. On the flip side, a possible downside is the tight schedule—some travelers might find it a little rushed, especially in spots where they’d like more time.

This tour is particularly suited for those who want a rundown of northern Italy in a short window. It’s perfect if you’re craving a mixture of scenery, history, and wine, and don’t want to spend time on logistics or transportation. Just keep in mind that it involves a good deal of walking and train travel, so it’s best for those comfortable with moderate activity and long days.

Key Points

• All logistics handled: Reliable transportation and guided tours make your trip smooth and hassle-free.
• Diverse experiences: Visit seaside villages, medieval towns, vineyards, and Pisa’s iconic tower—all in two days.
• Small group feel: With a maximum of 20 travelers, expect a more personal experience.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides provide local insights and recommendations.
• Moderate walking involved: Be prepared for some walking, especially in towns and during sightseeing.
• Weather-ready: The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Tuscany’s Charm and Vineyards

Your adventure kicks off early in Florence, meeting at the Piazza della Calza at 9:45am. Once everyone’s assembled, the journey begins with a scenic drive through Tuscany’s rolling landscapes. The vistas of vineyards, olive groves, cypress trees, and quaint villages are picture-perfect and set the perfect tone for the day.

The first stop in Ulignano offers a taste of the region’s charm. Here, you’ll visit a family-run estate where wines, olive oils, and snacks are on offer. The guided wine tasting lasts about an hour and a half, giving you a chance to learn about local varieties and production methods—an authentic experience that wine lovers will appreciate.

Next, you’ll head to San Gimignano, often called the “Medieval Manhattan” for its skyline of ancient towers. You’ll have about 90 minutes to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. Expect to stroll along narrow cobblestone streets, admire the medieval architecture, and snap photos of the skyline with its famous towers. The tour also includes another winery visit nearby, where the views of the Tuscan countryside make for incredible photos.

The day wraps up with a relaxed return to Florence around 8pm, giving you a full day immersed in Tuscany’s sights and flavors.

Day 2: Pisa and Cinque Terre’s Coastal Charm

Early in the morning, you meet at the Santa Maria Novella train station for a 7:30am departure. The day kicks off with a short walk to Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the world-famous Leaning Tower, the Baptistery, and the Duomo. The group visits the Field of Dreams—a lush green space that hosts these iconic sites—and you get about an hour to explore and snap photos.

Depending on your interest, you can opt to head inside the Leaning Tower or the Duomo (both at your own expense). Many travelers appreciate the chance to capture those classic shots of the tower tilting at just the right angle—something that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

After Pisa, the tour continues with a train ride to La Spezia, the gateway to Cinque Terre. This train trip takes about an hour, and once in La Spezia, the adventure continues on foot and by train through the five colorful seaside villages.

The villages of Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Manarola are all on your itinerary, each offering unique charm. Riomaggiore’s vibrant cliffside houses are an excellent first impression of Cinque Terre’s beauty. Vernazza is often considered the most picturesque, with its tiny harbor and colorful buildings. Finally, Manarola, perched on a rugged cliff, offers stunning coastal views that make for unforgettable photos.

Throughout these stops, you’ll have about an hour in each village to explore, relax, or dip your toes in the sea. The tour returns to Florence around 8:30pm after a scenic train ride back from La Spezia.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers the heavy lifting: guides fluent in English, roundtrip train travel, and transportation from Florence to Tuscany. It also includes wine tastings at two wineries, olive oil tasting, and some snacks—perfect for indulging in the local flavors.

However, meals are not included, so you’ll want to budget for lunch or snacks along the way. It’s also worth noting that accommodation in Florence isn’t part of this package, so plan accordingly.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

One of the most praised aspects pulled from reviews is the expert guidance. Our sample reviewer mentioned how their guide, Elisa, was “so sweet and answered all of our questions,” making the experience both informative and friendly. The small group size ensures that you’re not lost in a crowd, and the personal touches from guides are evident.

The scenic views—from Tuscany’s rolling hills to Cinque Terre’s colorful harbor towns—are genuinely stunning. The wine tastings are a highlight, especially for those who enjoy learning about local produce or simply savoring good wine in beautiful surroundings.

That said, the packed itinerary does mean a long day and some rushing. You’ll spend a good part of your day in transit, and the villages, while charming, are small, so don’t expect endless exploration time. If you’re someone who prefers slow-paced travel or more time in each location, this might feel a bit hurried.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a well-organized overview of northern Italy’s highlights, this tour offers exceptional value. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors who want to see Pisa, Cinque Terre, and Tuscany without the hassle of planning multiple day trips. The combination of scenic drives, train journeys, and guided tours means you can relax and focus on soaking in the views and flavors.

However, this experience demands a moderate level of fitness due to walking and long days. Also, if you’re traveling during peak summer months when the villages get crowded or the weather is hot, be ready to handle the crowds and sun.

To sum it up, if you’re eager to sample Italy’s iconic sights with knowledgeable guides and don’t mind a busy schedule, this 2-day combo tour is a solid pick. It balances organized comfort with authentic moments, making it a memorable way to experience the best of Florence’s surroundings.

FAQ

What is the starting point for Day 1?
The tour begins at Piazza della Calza in Florence, meeting near Porta Romana at 9:45am for a 10am start.

Do I need to book my own train tickets?
No, the tour includes all train transportation. Your guides handle the train arrangements between Pisa, Cinque Terre, and Florence.

Is this tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
Since there’s some walking involved and time spent exploring towns, it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll want to plan for your own lunch or snacks during the day.

Can I visit the inside of the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
You have the option to head inside during your free time, but that is at your own expense.

How many people are on this tour?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather—comfortable shoes for walking and layers if needed, especially in summer.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

In the end, this Florence-based combo tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Italy’s most beloved sights in just two days. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking organized convenience, scenic beauty, and a taste of Italy’s wine and coastal charm—all wrapped into one memorable trip.