Private Pisa and Lucca Wine Tour from Florence

A Detailed Look at the Private Pisa and Lucca Wine Tour from Florence

This private day trip offers a thoughtfully curated experience that takes you beyond the usual tourist spots, blending sightseeing, history, and wine tasting into one seamless package. With only your group and a dedicated guide, you’ll visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, the charming walls of Lucca, and savor locally produced Chianti wines — all in about eight hours. It’s the kind of trip that promises both memorable sights and intimate moments, with plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

One of the highlights for us is the personalized touch — this isn’t a crowded bus tour but a private journey that focuses on your group’s interests. Plus, the included wine tasting at a top organic Chianti vineyard adds a delicious, authentic flavor to the day. A practical perk is the hassle-free pickup from Florence, making the trip smooth from start to finish.

However, it’s worth noting that entrance to the Leaning Tower of Pisa isn’t included, so if climbing the tower is on your wishlist, you’ll need to book tickets separately. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a flexible, personal experience in Tuscany — those eager to see the highlights without rushing, and who enjoy tasting regional wines along the way.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience ensures you get tailored attention from your guide.
• Visit Pisa and Lucca in one day with ample free time to explore each city’s unique charm.
• Wine tasting at a top Chianti vineyard offers an authentic taste of Tuscany’s renowned wines.
• Hassle-free logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off from Florence centrally located hotels.
• Learn about local winemaking traditions and sample extra virgin olive oil with snacks.
• Flexible sightseeing where you can explore at your own pace, especially in Pisa and Lucca.

Exploring the Itinerary in Depth

Pickup and Travel to Tuscany

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, with a convenient pickup from your Florence hotel if you’re staying in the city’s “A” zone. Otherwise, you’ll meet the driver at the Hotel Boccaccio-Tino Caffè, just a short walk from the Santa Maria Novella train station. Travelers have shared how smooth and straightforward the pickup process was, with some enjoying a quick breakfast at the meeting point (a perk for guests who want to start the day with a coffee or croissant, especially since I Just Drive offers a 10% discount if you choose to have breakfast there).

Traveling by minivan, the ride offers a gentle start to the day, with the driver sharing tidbits about Tuscany’s landscape and history. Many reviews praise the driver’s friendliness and knowledge, making the trip both pleasant and informative.

Pisa: The Iconic Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli

The first major stop is Pisa, where you get about an hour to experience the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and the surrounding monuments — the Baptistery and Duomo. While tickets to climb the tower are not included, you can enjoy walking around Piazza dei Miracoli and soaking in the sights.

Many travelers appreciate the freedom to explore on their own after the guide’s brief introduction. One reviewer noted, “We liked that we could be dropped off and then picked up later, which gave us the flexibility to enjoy Pisa without feeling rushed.”

A highlight, according to reviews, is just wandering through the square, taking endless photos of the tilt, and soaking in the lively atmosphere. For those who want to go inside the tower, advance online booking is necessary, so plan ahead if that’s on your wishlist.

Lucca: Medieval Charm and Architectural Wonders

Next up is Lucca, a city often described as a hidden gem. The tour stops at Piazza Anfiteatro, a circular square built on the remains of a Roman amphitheater, offering a picturesque medieval scene surrounded by pastel-colored buildings. You’ll also visit the Duomo di San Martino, a cathedral with centuries of history, and enjoy free time to explore.

We loved the way reviewers raved about Lucca’s charm — one called it their “favorite city in Italy,” citing the possibility of bike riding along the city walls as a particular highlight. The walls are wide and flat, perfect for a quick bike ride that offers sweeping views of the city and beyond.

The Wine Tasting Experience

The final major stop at Fattoria San Michele A Torri is where the trip truly elevates. Here, you’ll sample a variety of Chianti wines and learn about regional winemaking traditions. The vineyard is organic, and many reviewers have called the wine tasting “fantastic,” praising both the quality of the wines and the knowledge of the staff.

One guest shared how the vineyard’s sommelier was “very friendly and explained everything in detail,” which added to the experience. Beyond wine, you’ll enjoy bread, extra virgin olive oil, and snacks, making it a delicious and educational finale. The tasting experience isn’t just about sipping wine but learning about how Tuscany’s unique environment shapes its flavors.

Return to Florence

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back, arriving at your Florence hotel around 5 pm. Many reviewers noted how smooth and well-organized the whole day was, especially appreciating the included amenities like bottled water, snacks, and Wi-Fi hotspot.

Analyzing the Value

At $711.44 per person, this private tour might seem steep at first glance. However, when considering the personalized attention, seamless logistics, and quality experiences — including wine tasting, flexible city exploration, and transportation — it offers good value. The exclusive nature means fewer crowds and tailored insights, which many travelers find worth the price.

Reviewers highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendly approach as a major positive. For example, one said, “Daniel was an outstanding driver and guide, making the day full of fun stories and useful tips, including restaurant recommendations for the evening.”

While not cheap, this experience caters well to those who value comfort, flexibility, and meaningful engagement with Tuscany’s highlights. It’s perfect if you prefer a curated, stress-free day rather than navigating alone or sharing a large bus.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a personalized Tuscan adventure. If you’re keen on seeing Pisa and Lucca with some free time to wander, enjoy authentic wine tasting, and avoid the chaos of large tours, this is a winner. It’s also great for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a taste of local gastronomic traditions, all in one day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, if you are staying in central Florence “A” zone, pickup from your hotel is included. Otherwise, you’ll meet the driver at the designated point near Santa Maria Novella train station.

How long is the total tour?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours, from 9:00 am departure to around 5:00 pm return.

Are tickets to climb the Leaning Tower included?
No, tickets to climb the tower are not included. You can, however, walk around and enjoy the square; if climbing is desired, book tickets online in advance.

What’s included in the tour price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by minivan, Wi-Fi hotspot, wine and olive oil tastings, snacks, and bottled water are included.

Can I customize the experience?
Since this is a private tour, your guide can tailor the experience to your interests, especially during free exploration times.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most stops involve walking or standing, so consider mobility needs when booking. The tour involves some free exploration, so flexibility is key.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for your plans.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers participate, but check with the provider if you’re bringing very young children or infants.

How far in advance should I book?
Bookings are typically made about 88 days in advance, so plan early to secure your preferred date.

In The Sum Up

This private Pisa and Lucca wine tour offers a fantastic balance of sightseeing, culture, and regional tasting. The personalized approach ensures you aren’t just another face in the crowd, and the flexibility means you can truly enjoy each stop at your own pace. Whether you’re into architecture, history, or wine, this experience gives you a taste of Tuscany’s best in a single day.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, personal attention, and authentic local experiences — those looking to make the most of their time in Florence without sacrificing quality or intimacy. The combination of expert guides, stunning locations, and delicious wines makes this a memorable way to explore Tuscany’s cultural and culinary riches.

For anyone eager to combine sightseeing with a little indulgence, this tour hits all the right notes — offering value through memorable, well-organized moments that will leave you with stories worth sharing and wines worth remembering.