PRIVATE Full-Day Pisa and Lucca GUIDED Tour from Florence

Exploring Tuscany: A Detailed Look at the Private Pisa and Lucca Guided Tour from Florence

If you’re visiting Florence and craving a full day of exploring some of Tuscany’s most captivating towns, this private guided tour to Pisa and Lucca promises a blend of history, architecture, and authentic Italian charm. With a max group size of just seven, the experience feels intimate, personalized, and well-paced, making it ideal for those who want depth over hurried sightseeing.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the focus on expert guides—who share fascinating insights—and the convenience of private transport in a plush Mercedes Benz minivan. That said, a potential consideration is the cost, which might seem steep compared to group tours, but the tailored experience and expert guidance help justify the price.

This trip is best suited for travelers who value detailed storytelling, enjoy walking through historic streets, and want a flexible, hassle-free way to see Pisa’s landmarks and Lucca’s medieval walls in one day. If you’re after a relaxed, informative excursion with a touch of luxury, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small-group size ensures tailored attention from your guides.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and passionate, enriching your understanding of each location.
• Comfortable Transport: Traveling in a private Mercedes Benz minivan means no crowds and flexible stops.
• Key Sites Covered: Pisa’s Leaning Tower, Baptistery, Duomo, and Lucca’s Renaissance walls, Piazza Anfiteatro, Torre Guinigi, and more.
• Flexible Itinerary: The schedule allows for immersive exploration with optional visits like Torre Guinigi’s rooftop garden.
• Value for Money: Given the personalized service, expert guiding, and transport, this tour offers good value for those seeking quality over budget.

The Full Experience: Breaking Down the Day

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Drive to Pisa

Starting promptly at 9:00 am, your driver will collect you from your Florence accommodation, easing any logistical worries. The drive to Pisa takes around an hour, giving you a chance to settle in and get oriented through casual conversation with your driver, who shares tidbits about Tuscany along the way. Many reviews noted how drivers and guides are vastly familiar with the area, often sharing curiosities and personalized suggestions that add real value beyond the standard tour script.

First Stop: Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa

Once in Pisa, the guide leads you through the historic suburbs into the world-famous Piazza dei Miracoli. Here, you’ll marvel at the Leaning Tower, the intricate Duomo, and the Baptistery—all set within lush green lawns. The sight of the tower tilting at an angle has always fascinated visitors, and your guide will explain the engineering marvel behind its stability and the history that surrounds it.

We loved the way the guide contextualized Pisa’s development, emphasizing its importance as a maritime republic and its architectural achievements. The open-air atmosphere allows for stunning photos, especially if you want that classic shot of you holding up the tower—something many reviewers have enjoyed doing.

Exploring Pisa in Depth

After a brief walk around the monument complex, your guide continues to navigate you through Pisa’s medieval gates into the city proper. This part of the tour is especially appreciated by those who want more than just a quick photo op. The guide provides detailed commentary on Pisa’s history, the significance of its monuments, and some amusing anecdotes about the Leaning Tower’s quirky photos.

This segment lasts about an hour and is free of admission fees, giving you ample time to absorb the atmosphere and snap plenty of pictures. As one reviewer summarized, the guide’s passionate storytelling makes the experience richer: “Alex and Monica were great with lots of information! Very passionate about their country.”

Transition to Lucca: Medieval Walls and Charm

Leaving Pisa behind, the tour continues to Lucca, a jewel of Tuscany. The drive is scenic, offering views of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves—classic Tuscany scenery. Upon arrival, you’ll step inside the well-preserved Renaissance-era city walls, which are among the most intact in Italy.

Strolling Lucca’s Streets and Piazzas

Your guide leads you through the labyrinth of cobblestone streets, pointing out highlights like Piazza Anfiteatro, built on the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater. The square’s oval shape and colorful buildings create a lively, inviting atmosphere, perfect for wandering and photo-taking. Many reviewers noted how the square’s medieval charm is palpable, making it an excellent spot for a relaxed lunch (note: lunch isn’t included but plenty of options are nearby).

Visiting Torre Guinigi and San Michele in Foro

Next, you’ll ascend Torre Guinigi, famous for its rooftop garden with hanging trees—an unexpected delight. The view from the top offers panoramic vistas of Lucca’s rooftops and surrounding countryside, well worth the climb. Though ticket prices aren’t included, many found the experience to be a highlight.

A visit to San Michele in Foro follows—a stunning church featuring priceless artworks and a dramatic marble statue of Archangel Michael defeating a dragon. The basilica’s history dates back to around the year 1000, and it reflects the city’s importance on the Via Francigena route.

Walking the Walls and Final Stops

The tour wraps up with a walk or bike ride along Lucca’s formidable walls, which are now a popular promenade offering sweeping views. This leisurely final activity allows you to absorb the city’s atmosphere and take in the landscape.

What the Reviews Reveal

The consistent thread in reviews is the guides’ passion and depth of knowledge. One reviewer praised Alex and Monica for their engaging storytelling and the way they incorporated personal insights, making the experience feel unique and tailored. The small group size was highlighted as a definite advantage, allowing for questions and flexibility.

Another reviewer loved the “stunning views” from Torre Guinigi and the “excellent” selection of local insights. The ease of transportation and the comfort of the Mercedes Benz minivan received high marks, especially for those who dislike crowded buses or long walks between sites.

The Value of a Private Guided Tour

While the tour price is nearly $1,000 per person, many consider it an investment in comfort, expert guidance, and a personalized experience. The Tour’s duration ensures you get enough time at each site without feeling rushed, and the private setting allows for spontaneous questions and tailored stops—ideal for travelers who value deeper engagement.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation in a private Mercedes Benz minivan makes the journey smooth and comfortable, especially when traveling with luggage or if mobility is a concern. The tour starts at 9:00 am from Florence, but pickup times can be adjusted upon request, providing flexibility for your schedule.

Admission tickets for the Tower of Pisa aren’t included in the base price but can be reserved at booking for €18 per person—worth considering if you want to ascend it. Children under 8 aren’t allowed to go up, so plan accordingly if traveling with young kids.

Lunch isn’t included, but the itinerary’s stops at Piazza Anfiteatro and other local spots make it easy to find delicious, authentic Tuscany fare. Also, umbrellas are provided in case of rain, which is a thoughtful touch.

Cancellation policy is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, offering peace of mind in case your plans change.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This private tour appeals most to travelers seeking a relaxed, immersive experience with expert guides who bring history alive. It’s excellent for culture enthusiasts, small groups, or couples who want to avoid crowded tours and enjoy a customized itinerary.

It’s also suited for those who appreciate comfort and convenience, thanks to the private transport and flexible scheduling. If you’re interested in photo opportunities, authentic local insights, and in-depth exploration of Pisa and Lucca, this tour delivers.

However, if budget is a major concern or you prefer self-guided exploration, there are more affordable options available. Also, keep in mind that the tower visit requires a reservation and has age restrictions, which could influence family plans.

The Sum Up

This private full-day tour from Florence to Pisa and Lucca offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to explore two of Tuscany’s most enchanting towns. The use of a private guide ensures you get detailed stories and insights, transforming standard sightseeing into an engaging educational experience. Traveling in a private Mercedes van means you avoid crowds and have the flexibility to ask questions and enjoy spontaneous stops.

The stops at Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli and Lucca’s historic walls are highlights that pack visual and cultural charm, while the guides’ passionate storytelling adds depth and interest. The optional ascent of Torre Guinigi and the opportunity to walk or bike the city walls are memorable touches that elevate the experience.

For travelers who value personalized service, expert guidance, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially ideal if you want a leisurely, informative day that covers the highlights with plenty of opportunities to soak in Tuscany’s timeless beauty.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 8 are not allowed to go up the tower in Pisa, but the rest of the tour is family-friendly, especially with flexible stops and ample walking.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour has a set schedule, but the private nature of the experience allows for some flexibility, especially with pickup times and optional stops like Torre Guinigi.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers private transportation, guiding services, and the various walking stops listed. Admission to the Pisa tower can be reserved separately.

How long are the stops at each location?
Each major site is allocated specific time blocks, ranging from 30 minutes at some churches to 2 hours at Pisa and Lucca’s main attractions, allowing for thorough exploration.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of nearby restaurants at Piazza Anfiteatro and other spots to enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine.

What if it rains?
Umbrellas are provided, so you can continue exploring comfortably even if the weather turns wet.

How early should I book?
The tour is typically booked around 154 days in advance on average, so early reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Though designed for small groups, solo travelers will enjoy the personalized attention and freedom offered by the private guide.

This detailed look at the private Pisa and Lucca guided tour from Florence hopefully gives you all the insights needed to decide if it’s the right fit for your Tuscan adventure. Whether it’s the expert storytelling, the comfort of private transport, or the chance to see iconic sites with minimal hassle, it’s a memorable way to experience Tuscany’s timeless towns.