Pisa and Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence in a Small Group

Start your day trip from Florence to La Spezia early in the morning and prepare for a full day on the Ligurian coast. After a brief introduction and overview of the itinerary, you will begin your journey from Florence toward La Spezia.
Depending on the option selected, you will travel either by comfortable minivan with a professional Tour Leader or independently by train, following detailed instructions provided in advance. Both options are designed to ensure smooth logistics and efficient travel time.
The journey takes approximately two hours each way, and it is important to note that this is a long day with a structured schedule. Whether you choose a guided tour from Florence to La Spezia or a self-guided train experience, the morning transfer allows you to settle in and prepare for the day ahead.

From La Spezia, your exploration of the Cinque Terre National Park begins. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its five colorful fishing villages set along the rugged Ligurian coastline.
Upon arrival at La Spezia train station, you will have some free time to purchase a snack at a local shop or use the restroom facilities before boarding a regional train to reach the villages. Access to Cinque Terre from La Spezia is exclusively by local trains, which connect the five towns throughout the day.
Please note that Cinque Terre is one of the most visited destinations in Italy. You should expect crowds, especially during peak season, as well as possible train delays. Traveling by regional train is part of the authentic local experience and the most efficient way to move between the villages.

Travel by regional train to Vernazza, one of the most scenic villages of Cinque Terre. Built around a small natural harbor, the village is known for its colorful waterfront and traditional Ligurian architecture.
Often considered one of the highlights of Cinque Terre National Park, Vernazza offers beautiful coastal views and a lively atmosphere.
You will have approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of free time in Vernazza to explore the historic center, relax near the harbor, or enjoy the surrounding viewpoints.

Continue by regional train to Manarola, one of the most iconic villages of Cinque Terre. Perched on a rocky cliff above the Ligurian Sea, the village is known for its colorful houses cascading toward the small harbor.
Recognized as one of the most photographed spots in Cinque Terre National Park, Manarola offers striking coastal views and classic Ligurian charm.
You will have approximately 2 hours of free time in Manarola to explore the harbor area, enjoy the panoramic viewpoints, and take photos of this distinctive seaside village.

After your visit to Manarola in Cinque Terre, return to La Spezia to continue your journey toward Pisa.
Departure from La Spezia to Pisa is scheduled at approximately 2:30 PM. The transfer takes around two hours, depending on traffic conditions.
You are expected to arrive in Pisa around 4:30 PM, where you will visit one of Italy’s most famous landmarks. Pisa is internationally known for the Leaning Tower of Pisa, located in the remarkable Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that also includes the Cathedral and Baptistery.

Upon arrival in Pisa, begin exploring Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) at your own pace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the city’s most important landmarks, including the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery.
You will have over 1 hour of free time in Pisa to visit the monuments independently and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic square.
During your free time, you can take photos by the Leaning Tower, one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks. Subject to availability, you may also choose to climb the Tower (ticket not included). Alternatively, visit the Pisa Cathedral to admire its impressive Romanesque architecture and Giovanni Pisano’s carved pulpit (ticket not included), or step inside the Baptistery of Pisa, known for its remarkable acoustics (ticket not included). If you wish to pre-book tickets for the Leaning Tower of Pisa, please contact our team in advance to confirm the most suitable entrance time.

After your time in Pisa and Piazza dei Miracoli, relax during the return transfer to Florence. Following a long and full day visiting Cinque Terre and Pisa, this is a good opportunity to rest, enjoy the scenery, or chat with your fellow travelers.
The journey back to Florence takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.