Question 1

What else is worth seeing in Pisa besides the Leaning Tower?

Accepted Answer

The Leaning Tower is just one structure within Pisa's magnificent Square of Miracles (Piazza dei Miracoli), a UNESCO World Heritage site. During your 3.5-hour visit, explore the stunning Romanesque Cathedral with its detailed marble facade and pulpit by Giovanni Pisano, the ornate Baptistery with its remarkable acoustics, and the monumental Cemetery (Camposanto) with frescoes and Roman sarcophagi. Beyond the square, visit the Knights' Square (Piazza dei Cavalieri), the historic University of Pisa, and stroll along the Arno River for a more complete Pisan experience.

Question 2

What's the best way to photograph the Leaning Tower?

Accepted Answer

For classic "holding up the tower" photos, position yourself at the grassy areas to the east of the tower where you'll have enough distance for proper framing. Morning light (before 11 AM) provides better illumination of the tower's facade. For more unique angles, try photographing from inside the Cathedral complex or from the Baptistery steps. The roof of the Camposanto offers elevated perspectives. For night photography, the tower is beautifully illuminated after dark, creating dramatic contrasts worth capturing if your 3.5-hour visit extends into evening.

Question 3

How much time should I allocate for climbing the Leaning Tower?

Accepted Answer

If you plan to climb the tower during your visit, allow approximately 30-40 minutes total—about 15-20 minutes for the climb itself (294 steps) and additional time for enjoying the panoramic views and taking photos from the top. Add extra time for ticket purchase and waiting for your assigned entry slot during busy periods. Advance online reservations are strongly recommended, especially from April through October, as visitor numbers are strictly limited with specific entry times.

Question 4

What's the history behind the Leaning Tower's famous tilt?

Accepted Answer

The tower began leaning during construction in the 12th century due to a mere 3-meter foundation set in weak, unstable soil. Construction continued intermittently over 199 years with various architects attempting to compensate for the growing tilt. By completion in 1372, engineers had curved the upper sections to counterbalance the lean. The tower's tilt increased to 5.5 degrees before stabilization work in the 1990s reduced it to 3.97 degrees. This engineering drama actually saved the tower from demolition during WWII, as its beauty and uniqueness impressed a German officer.

Question 5

How far is Pisa from Florence and what's the journey like?

Accepted Answer

Pisa is approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles) west of Florence, with a driving time of about 1 hour 15 minutes each way. The scenic route passes through the beautiful Tuscan countryside with its characteristic olive groves, vineyards, and cypress trees. Your private Daytrip driver handles all transportation, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey while maximizing your exploration time in Pisa. The relatively short distance makes this an ideal half-day excursion from Florence.

Question 6

Are there good local foods to try during my visit to Pisa?

Accepted Answer

Pisa offers several local specialties worth trying during your visit. Look for cecina (a savory chickpea pancake), pappa al pomodoro (bread and tomato soup), or the seafood pasta dish spaghetti allo scoglio. For something quick, try torta co' bischeri (rice and chocolate tart) or a slice of castagnaccio (chestnut flour cake). The area around the Square of Miracles has many cafes and restaurants, though venturing a few blocks away generally provides better quality and value at authentic establishments where locals dine.

Question 7

When is the best time to visit Pisa to avoid crowds?

Accepted Answer

For a more relaxed experience at the Square of Miracles, visit during early morning (before 10 AM) or later afternoon (after 4 PM) when large tour groups are less prevalent. Weekdays generally see fewer visitors than weekends. The November-March period offers significantly smaller crowds, though with shorter opening hours and possible rain. If visiting during peak summer season (June-August), your driver can time your arrival to avoid the busiest midday hours when cruise ship excursions typically visit.

Question 8

How do day trips with Daytrip work?

Accepted Answer

Day trips offer travelers private round-trip transportation to popular sightseeing locations. One of our professional drivers will pick you up in a luxurious, climate-controlled car, take you to the site of interest, and wait for you while you explore before driving you back to your hotel.

Question 9

Will I have to wait around for the driver to return?

Accepted Answer

Your Daytrip driver will wait for you nearby for the duration of your exploration, meaning you’ll never have to wait for your return trip transportation to arrive. Your comfort and convenience are our top priorities, and we aim to close out your day trip with a return on your schedule.

Question 10

Can I customize the pickup and drop-off times?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You’re free to choose the pickup and drop-off times that work best for you. However, the time spent at the destination is fixed and cannot be changed.

Question 11

Are entrance tickets and tours included in the price?

Accepted Answer

The price of a day trip does not include any entrance tickets, guided tours, or meals you may partake in at your destination. The price covers round-trip transportation in a luxury vehicle with a professional driver who can provide local insights en route.

Question 12

How long will I have to explore?

Accepted Answer

Each sightseeing stop has a recommended duration that includes plenty of time to explore. However, it is possible to customize the time spent at each sightseeing stop at a later stage in the booking process to best fit your unique schedule.

Question 13

If my plans change, is the booking flexible?

Accepted Answer

Day trip bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours before your trip for a full refund, no strings attached. While the destination and stops are predetermined, it is possible to change your pick-up point, whether it is at your hotel or some other location within the city.

Question 14

Can I take a large group?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Day trips are fully customizable to suit the needs of any private group. From solo travelers to large families with children and even corporate groups, we are ready to create a bespoke itinerary that accommodates parties of all sizes. The price is dependent on the number of vehicles required to serve your group, and we also provide child seats.

Question 15

Will my driver speak English?

Accepted Answer

Your friendly, professional, local driver will speak English. Our drivers are happy to provide any local insight they can on the way to your destination and may be able to answer questions and provide tips for the best possible experience on your day trip.

Question 16

Can I request children’s car seats for the journey?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide car seats for children of all ages, which meet stringent safety standards and local legal requirements. You can even bring your own car seat. We also have handicapped-accessible vehicles available for a wide range of needs for our passengers. When booking your day trip, please specify the accommodations you will need.

Question 17

Can I pay securely online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Daytrip offers flexible payment options. We accept Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Ali Pay. You also can pay securely online with any major credit card, such as Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.

Question 18

How do I book?

Accepted Answer

Booking your day trip is as easy as our one-way and return trips! On the landing page of the day trip you’d like to take, simply select the date, pick up time, and how many adults and children will be on the trip. On the second page, you’ll fill in personal details, including any special requests, disability accommodations, and children’s car seats you may need. We are flexible too! You can change your exact pick-up location (hotel address, etc) up to 24 hours before your day trip.

Florence to Pisa: Private day trip

Private ride with a local driver

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