Discover two of Italy’s most iconic destinations in one comprehensive day trip from Florence. This Cinque Terre and Pisa tour combines the colorful coastal villages of the Ligurian Riviera with the historic landmarks of Pisa, including the world-famous Leaning Tower. Designed to optimize travel time while allowing independent exploration, this long but well-structured itinerary offers a practical way to visit Cinque Terre National Park and Piazza dei Miracoli in a single day.
In need of a longer tour experience? Browse our Multi-Day Tours in Italy.
Depart from Florence
Start your full-day tour from Florence to Cinque Terre and Pisa early in the morning. Travel toward La Spezia — the gateway to the Cinque Terre National Park — either with a Tour Leader by comfortable minivan or independently by train with detailed instructions provided in advance. The journey takes approximately two hours. This is a long but rewarding day exploring two of Italy’s most iconic destinations.
Explore Cinque Terre from La Spezia
From La Spezia, continue by regional train into the heart of Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its five colorful fishing villages along the Ligurian coast.
Visit Vernazza, one of the most picturesque villages in Cinque Terre. Enjoy about 1.5 hours of free time to explore the harbor, stroll through the narrow streets, and admire the coastal views.
Continue to Manarola, one of the most photographed villages in Italy. You will have approximately 2 hours of free time to discover the village, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, and experience the authentic Ligurian atmosphere. Please note that Cinque Terre is very popular and train travel between villages is part of the local experience.
Pisa & the Leaning Tower
In the afternoon, travel to Pisa, home to the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Visit Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy over 1 hour of free time to explore independently. See the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery, take iconic photos, or relax at a nearby café. Entrance tickets are not included but can be pre-booked upon request.
Return to Florence
After a full day discovering Cinque Terre and Pisa, relax on the return journey to Florence, arriving in the early evening.
Any questions about this Pisa and Cinque Terre day tour? Please get in touch.
Florence
Classic Tour: Parcheggio Oltrarno , in front of the blue “ P” sign by Porta Romana , Piazza della Calza 1, Florence https://maps.app.goo.gl/3hhipaJD5QQ7ThvbA
Tranport Only – Self Guided:
With the self-guided option, you will travel independently using regional trains. Our team will send you all required train tickets and detailed travel instructions 24 hours prior to the tour to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
The instructions will include departure times, train connections, and step-by-step guidance on how to reach each destination, allowing you to explore Cinque Terre and Pisa at your own pace while following a carefully planned itinerary.
March – November : Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday / June – September : Extra departure on Sunday
Important Information
Reccomendations for off summer seasons:
Certainly winter is not the best time to visit the Cinque Terre, which are summer villages and mainly come alive from June until the end of September, however winter is the best time to appreciate the nature, the landscape and the quietness of this magic lands away from the summer crowds. A stop to Pisa before heading to Cinque Terre is a must.
FOOD & DRINKS From November until March the majority of the shops and local restaurants will close for their annual leave. We recommend to bring a packed lunch
FORECAST In case of rain we recommend you to bring a rain coat due to the wind on the villages and wear warm clothes
LANDSCAPE The paths on the national park due to the often land slides are closed by the local authorities every time is considered to be dangerous for the people.
