The Best of Florence and Pisa from La Spezia Sea Port

If you’re cruising along Italy’s coast and find yourself docked at La Spezia, chances are you’re eager to explore some of the most iconic cities in Tuscany. This Best of Florence and Pisa tour offers a way to see both highlights in a single day, with the comfort of private transportation and guided insights. It’s a popular choice for travelers craving a mix of art, architecture, and that unmistakable Leaning Tower of Pisa picture-perfect moment.

What we love about this experience is how it balances organized sightseeing with enough flexibility to enjoy the scenery and snap memorable photos. Plus, the private minivan makes for a relaxed journey, avoiding the chaos of large group tours. On the flip side, a minor consideration is that the tour doesn’t include entry into the sites — you’ll be viewing from outside, which could be a letdown if you’re hoping for inside access.

This tour suits those who want a well-curated day without the hassle of planning logistics, especially if you’re traveling with a group up to eight people. If you’re comfortable with some walking and outside viewing, this could be just what you need to tick off two of Tuscany’s most famous spots without a ton of fuss.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Private & Comfortable: Travel in style in an air-conditioned minivan with a dedicated driver and guide.
• Flexible & All-Inclusive: Round-trip transfers from La Spezia make the day stress-free.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visit Florence’s key sites like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazzale Michelangelo, plus Pisa’s Leaning Tower.
• Cultural & Scenic Balance: Enjoy panoramic views of the Alps and Carrara marble quarries along the way.
• Tour Length & Price: Around 8-9 hours at approximately $1,124 for up to 8 people — a decent value for a private, all-day experience.
• Highlights for Photographers & Sightseers: Stops are timed for photos and quick visits, perfect for capturing Tuscany’s essence.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Pickup & Journey

Starting from La Spezia, you’ll be greeted by your driver, who will whisk you away in a private, air-conditioned minivan. This is a big plus because it means no waiting around for multiple pickups or large tour buses. The drive takes you through some memorable scenery, including a glimpse of the Alps and Carrara’s marble quarries, setting the tone for a day full of visual treats.

Florence: Walking Through Art and Architecture

The first major stop is Piazza del Duomo, Florence’s heart, where you’ll get a chance to admire Giotto’s bell tower, Santa Maria del Fiore, and the baptistery from the outside. The tour includes a one-hour stop with admission included, so you can take photos and get a real sense of Florence’s grandeur. Be aware that if you didn’t purchase a ticket in advance, you’ll be viewing from outside, which some may find slightly underwhelming.

Next, the Piazzale Michelangelo provides an incredible panoramic view of Florence from a hilltop. It’s a prime spot for photos and soaking in the cityscape, including the Cathedral and the river below. You’ll spend about 20 minutes here — a perfect opportunity for a quick snap or two.

Florence’s Ponte Vecchio is next, a charming bridge lined with shops and history. Your walk on the bridge will be brief but memorable, and you’ll get a sense of its timeless appeal. From there, it’s a short stroll to Piazza della Signoria, where replicas of Michelangelo’s David, the Neptune Fountain, and the Palazzo Vecchio create a lively scene. The tour allows for about 45 minutes here — enough to explore, take photos, and maybe grab a quick coffee from one of the cafes.

Pisa: The Leaning Tower & More

After lunch, you’ll head to Piazza dei Miracoli, the famous “Square of Miracles.” From outside, you’ll see the Saint John Baptistery, Santa Maria Assunta Church, and of course, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The tour includes a one-hour stop for photos and sightseeing, but note that entry into the tower isn’t guaranteed unless you purchase a ticket beforehand.

One of the reviews highlighted the importance of managing expectations here—viewing the tower from outside still delivers that iconic shot, but if inside access is a must, plan ahead. You might find that just being in the square, with its impressive architecture and the lively atmosphere, is worth the visit even without climbing the tower.

The Return & Final Notes

After a full day of sightseeing, your driver will take you back to La Spezia, leaving you with plenty of time to relax and reflect on your day. The overall experience lasts about 8 to 9 hours, making it a full but comfortably paced day.

The Value & Practicalities

Pricing: At roughly $1,124 per group (up to 8 people), this tour offers a private experience that can be shared, making it quite attractive for families or groups of friends. While not cheap, the cost includes transport, a guide, and admission to key sites. It’s a good deal considering the private nature and included perks.

Tour Length & Flexibility: The 8-9 hour window is well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day without feeling rushed. The tour operates year-round, with bookings made on average 135 days in advance, indicating solid planning.

What’s Not Included: Food and drinks are on you, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a quick coffee break in Pisa or Florence. Since the tour is private, you could also easily customize certain stops if desired, within the time constraints.

Authentic Feedback from Past Travelers

Many reviewers praised the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One called Paolo “our friend by the end of the day,” highlighting the personal touch that private tours often bring. Others loved the scenic views and photo opportunities, especially at Piazzale Michelangelo and in Pisa.

A few travelers expressed slight disappointment, mainly about the lack of internal site access — a reminder to double-check if inside tickets are needed before booking. One reviewer described the tour as “just a pleasant taxi driver” due to limited site entry, but for most, the guide’s insights and the scenery made up for it.

The positive reviews lean heavily on the guide’s professionalism, the memorable scenery, and the ease of transport.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for groups or families looking for a private, hassle-free day to see Florence and Pisa. It’s perfect if you prefer guided sightseeing without the worry of logistics or large crowds. If you’re especially interested in photography, scenic views, and quick visits to iconic sites, you’ll likely be very happy.

Travelers who value comfort and personalized attention will find this a good fit. However, if inside site access is a priority, consider supplementing this tour with pre-purchased tickets.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from La Spezia strikes a good balance between convenience and sightseeing. You’ll visit some of Florence’s most famous landmarks, enjoy stunning vistas, and get that classic Pisa shot—all without dealing with the hassle of public transportation or large groups. The private guide and transport add a touch of luxury that can turn a busy day into a memorable experience.

While it’s not perfect for those craving inside access into the sites, it’s a solid choice for those who want efficient, personalized sightseeing with plenty of photo ops and cultural highlights. If you’re okay with outside views and a flexible schedule, this tour offers a convenient way to tick off two of Tuscany’s crown jewels in a day.

FAQ

Does the tour include entry into the sites?
No, the tour mainly covers viewing from outside, with the exception of the Florence Duomo and Piazzale Michelangelo, where admission is included but only for viewing. Entry into Pisa’s Leaning Tower is not guaranteed unless you purchase tickets separately.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to see the main sights without feeling rushed.

What transportation is used?
You’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned minivan, which is comfortable and offers flexibility for your group.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children are allowed, note that the tour involves walking and outside sightseeing, so consider if your kids enjoy quick stops and outdoor photos.

Who is the tour operator?
It’s operated by Ciao Italy Tours, known for private, guided experiences.

What’s the best part of this tour?
Many travelers highlight the guide’s knowledge, scenic views from Piazzale Michelangelo, and the opportunity to capture iconic photos of Florence and Pisa.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or enjoy local cafes during your stops.