Visit Pisa and Lucca

General information

Destination
Florence, Italy

Program details

Explore Pisa on the bank of the River Arno, where you'll see the iconic Leaning Tower, and then head to gorgeous Lucca, the birthplace of the opera composer Puccini, famous for its intact Renaissance era-city walls.



Your first stop is world-famous Pisa, where you can explore the Piazza dei Miracoli, one of the finest architectural complexes in the world. This medieval walled space encompasses Pisa's most iconic attraction, the Leaning Tower (from outside). This campanile, or freestanding bell tower, began to tilt during construction, owing to an inadequate foundation on land too soft to support the tower’s weight. You will also get a chance to admire the intricate details of the Baptistery of St John (from outside), constructed between 1152 and 1363 to house the baptismal font. Afterwards, recharge your batteries with free time for lunch (not included). If you have chosen the option with lunch included, savour a delicious 3 course meal at a local restaurant.



Then it's on to picturesque Lucca, situated on a fertile plain where the River Serchio broadens before it enters the Tyrrhenian Sea. Founded by the ancient Etruscans before passing on to the Romans, the rectangular grid of the historical centre still preserves the original Roman street plan, but now features many beautiful medieval and Renaissance era buildings. Visit the quaint and peaceful Anfiteatro Square, the tall brick Guinigi Tower featuring a beautiful hanging garden on the roof and the huge dome of the cathedral, decorated with glorious frescoes suffused with golden light. Stroll down one of the typical antique dealer streets, before rounding off your day with buccellato, the local soft sweet bread filled with sultanas and aniseed.