Pisa isn’t just about its iconic Leaning Tower — although that alone makes it worth a visit. For cruise travelers, Pisa offers a compact, walkable city filled with stunning squares, impressive monuments, and photo-worthy views. Whether you want a quick guided visit or a more personalized experience, the excursions listed below give you a taste of this charming Tuscan city. For those looking to combine Pisa with nearby Florence, or explore other Tuscan highlights, there are options for every interest and budget. Many travelers love the chance to climb the Leaning Tower, while others prefer private, flexible tours that let them set their own pace. Check out our top picks to find the one that fits your style.
In this list, we cover a range of guided group tours, private experiences, and self-guided options. From a straightforward half-day guided tour that gets you up close to the Leaning Tower, to an all-day private Tuscany experience combining Pisa with nearby San Gimignano, there’s something for all. If you’re pressed for time, a quick visit to the Miracle Square with a knowledgeable guide makes it easy to see Pisa’s highlights. For those who want a deeper dive, private tours with dedicated drivers offer personalized itineraries and more flexibility.
1. Livorno: Escorted Shore Excursion to Pisa with Leaning Tower
At number 1 on our list, this half-day guided tour offers a straightforward way to visit Pisa from Livorno. For around $34 per person, you’ll spend about four hours exploring the city with a professional tour leader. The highlight is, of course, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, which you get the chance to climb if you pre-book your tickets in advance (and avoid the long lines). Your guide will also point out the other monuments in Miracle Square, such as the cathedral and Baptistery, and share stories about Pisa’s medieval past. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness — “Alice was extremely friendly and informative,” said one reviewer.
What sets this tour apart is its affordability and focus on the essentials. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a quick, well-organized introduction to Pisa’s most famous sight. The small group size—and the fact that you’ll meet the guide directly at the port—makes it convenient. Keep in mind, the tour doesn’t include the tower climb, but you’ll get a full overview of Pisa’s highlights.
Bottom Line: This tour offers great value for a half-day outing, perfect if your ship’s schedule is tight but you still want to see the Leaning Tower and Miracle Square with some expert commentary.
2. Pisa&Florence Shore Excursion from Carrara Port
For those who want to see more than just Pisa, the Pisa & Florence private trip is a true standout. Costing about $1,229 for up to 8 people, this nine-hour adventure in a private vehicle takes you from Carrara to two of Italy’s most artistic cities. The itinerary includes Pisa’s Piazza dei Cavalieri, where you can soak up the Renaissance atmosphere, and the chance to climb the Leaning Tower (tickets not included, so plan ahead). Afterward, you’ll head to Florence, stopping at Piazzale Michelangelo for sweeping views, and exploring landmarks like Santa Croce’s basilica, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Duomo.
What makes this tour special is its flexibility and exclusivity. Guests love the personalized approach, with the driver also serving as a guide, tailoring the experience to your interests. Reviewers mention the driver’s knowledge and the ease of skipping large bus groups — “Seamless communication and a smooth ride,” said one traveler. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their time without feeling rushed and value a private, curated experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a private, relaxed day exploring Pisa and Florence, this tour offers excellent value for a full-day adventure with zero stress over logistics.
3. Private Shore Excursion from Livorno Port: Tuscany Highlights
This private full-day tour offers a tailored experience to see Tuscany’s most cherished sites. Priced at around $502.81 per person, it’s a perfect choice if you want to skip the crowds and have a more personalized day. The tour begins in Pisa, where you can marvel at the famous Leaning Tower, and then continues to San Gimignano, a medieval hill town famous for its towers. The itinerary is flexible, with plenty of time to explore, shop, and enjoy local food.
Guests highlight the quality of the driver and the relaxed pace. The tour includes two hours in Pisa, giving enough time to appreciate the architecture without rushing. Because it’s private, you can customize your stops — whether that means more time in Pisa or an extra visit to a local vineyard. The reviews praise the knowledgeable driver and the ease of the arrangement, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a bespoke experience.
Bottom Line: This tour’s private nature makes it best suited for travelers who want a flexible, intimate look at Pisa and the surrounding Tuscan countryside without being part of a large group.
4. Pisa, Pietrasanta & Carrara Caves Shore Excursion from Carrara Port
Number 4 on our list is a private full-day tour that makes the most of your time in Carrara. For around $1,047, your group (up to 8 people) will visit the Marble Caves of Carrara, famous for producing the marble used in Michelangelo’s sculptures. Afterward, you’ll explore Pietrasanta, a charming town with Roman origins and medieval charm, known for its art and artisan shops. The day ends in Pisa, wandering its picturesque piazzas and soaking in the iconic Leaning Tower.
This tour is ideal if you’re interested in marble craftsmanship, art history, and medieval towns. The guide will take you through the marble quarries, which is a unique experience you won’t find in typical Pisa tours. Guests comment on the personalized service and the chance to see a different side of Tuscany. The combination of natural beauty, art, and history makes it a full, rewarding day.
Potential drawback: The tour covers a lot of ground, so be prepared for some travel time between stops. But for those interested in the marble industry and Tuscan towns, it’s a trip worth taking.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers craving a mix of natural wonder, art, and history, especially if you love seeing how Michelangelo’s marble was sourced.
5. Exclusive Shore Excursion: Lucca & Livorno with Driver-Guide
This luxury private tour offers a relaxed dive into two Tuscany towns often overlooked by cruise travelers. For about $872, your group visits Montenero Sanctuary, with its panoramic views, and the lively Venezia district of Livorno. Then, you’ll head inland to Lucca, a city encased in Renaissance walls, filled with cobblestone streets and charming piazzas.
Guests highlight the attentive service and the local insights shared by the driver-guide, who is very knowledgeable about the area’s history and culture. The trip includes walking in Lucca, visiting the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, and exploring Livorno’s colorful canals. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a more curated, less hurried experience and want to avoid the large bus crowds.
Potential drawback: Limited to one day, so this tour is best if you’re eager to see both towns without rushing. It’s perfect for history lovers and those seeking a more exclusive feel.
Bottom Line: If you want a tailored, comfortable day exploring Tuscany’s lesser-known towns, this is a superb option.
6. Pisa and Florence Port Tour (Driver Only/Self Touring)
Number 6 offers a flexible, self-guided approach with a driver-only service. For around $1,745, your group can explore Pisa and Florence at your own pace, with transportation arranged between sites. You’ll start in Pisa’s Square of Miracles with free time to admire the Leaning Tower, the cathedral, and the Baptistery. Then, after a scenic drive, you’ll arrive in Florence for a two-hour guided tour of key sights like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.
Guests love the flexibility of this option, especially those who enjoy customizing their itinerary. The driver is experienced, and the tour allows you to skip long lines or linger where you want. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with planning and managing their own schedule, offering a good balance of independence and transportation.
Potential drawback: The cost is higher, and it requires more planning on your part. Still, the freedom to explore at your own pace can be worth it.
Bottom Line: Best for confident travelers who want control over their day, combining Pisa and Florence with minimal hassle.
7. Livorno Shore Excursion to Florence and Pisa – Private Day Trip
Last but not least, this private full-day tour is perfect for those who want a guided experience covering Pisa’s Leaning Tower and Florence’s highlights. For about $1,447, your group spends roughly 8 hours exploring at a comfortable pace. The itinerary includes photo stops at the old bridge of Florence, a quick walk through the Piazza della Repubblica, and visits to the cathedral and Baptistery (from outside).
Guests particularly appreciate the customized approach — “Our guide in Florence was fantastic, and we loved the flexibility of the itinerary,” says one. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided experience but with enough time to enjoy each city without feeling rushed.
Potential drawback: The schedule is packed, so be prepared for a full day on the move. Best suited for travelers who prioritize seeing key sights with expert guidance.
Bottom Line: If you want a guided, comprehensive day visiting Pisa and Florence, this tour offers a balanced mix of structure and personalization.
How to Choose the Right Pisa Shore Excursion
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, interest level, and desired pace. If you’re on a tight schedule, the half-day guided tour provides the essentials without breaking the bank. For a more personalized experience and flexibility, private options like the Tuscany Highlights or Lucca & Livorno trip are excellent choices.
Travelers interested in art, architecture, and history should consider tours that include Florence, like the full-day private or self-guided options, which maximize time in both cities. For those craving a deeper connection to Tuscany’s landscape and marble craftsmanship, the Carrara caves tour is hard to beat.
Book early, especially for private tours, as they fill quickly. Also, check if tickets for the Leaning Tower climb are included or need pre-booking — it’s a highlight worth planning for.
Final Thoughts
Pisa offers a wide array of shore excursions suited to different interests and travel styles. Whether you want a quick guided visit, a private full-day adventure, or a flexible self-guided experience, there’s an option that fits. For travelers with limited time, the guided tours focusing on the Leaning Tower are perfect. If you prefer a more personalized journey, private tours that combine Pisa with nearby towns like Florence or Lucca will give you a richer experience.
Remember, early booking is key, especially for popular tours or those requiring pre-purchased tickets. With so many choices, you’ll want to plan ahead to ensure your time in Pisa is memorable and stress-free. Whatever your preference, these tours are your ticket to making the most of your day in this iconic Tuscan city.
