Florence and Pisa On Your Own

We were very pleased with this excursion. I was concerned about connecting up with them but it was no problem - the free shuttle bus took us to the starting point. At the end of the tour we were running late because of traffic so they brought right to the ship. The guide offered great information as we rode in the bus and was very good about answering any questions we had. One thing I would do different would be to not walk all the way to the bridge - it took almost all of our free time to get there and there were very interesting shops and points of interest that were closer. We had just the right amount of time at the Tower in Pisa and again the guide gave us a lot of good information about it. We had scheduled a similar tour though the cruise line but ended up cancelling that one (which cost a lot more) and getting this one instead. We are very happy that we did go on this one instead.

The tour was a perfect way to schedule a visit to both Florence and Pisa in one day from the ship. Because of the distance spent traveling it makes for a long day but you are able to maximize your time. The motor coach transportation was nice with WiFi available. The times at each stop were adequate. The only negative was the drop off/ pick up point in Florence was behind the train station and not very convenient to the old town.

Perfect way to see both locations on your own especially if you had been there before. Informative and personable guides on the bus. It was especially appreciated when the bus driver dropped us off directly at the ship. We had waited in Pisa for someone who was late and in turn made us short in time for the ships departure time. Highly recommend this tour. You will not be disappointed.

We were able to get to our central meeting place to catch our coach without any difficulties. The weather in Florence wasn't cooperative but that was beyond anyone's control and it is obvious it is a very beautiful city. We enjoyed the Duomo Cathedral and a cappuccino at a nearby cafe. Our bus hostess Martina gave us some excellent pointers on how best to explore Florence and a map was provided. Free wifi was available on the bus which is a very nice feature.Martina also gave an interesting commentary on the surrounding countryside between Florence and Pisa, indicating points of interest Our time in Pisa was very limited although my husband and I were able to get some good shots with the Leaning Tower of Pisa. We appreciated the ride back right to the Princess Terminal upon our return home.

If you use shore excursion that is not provided by the cruise, only drawback I find is that the meeting location is usually a free shuttle ride away from ship...like downtown or entrance of the port. Otherwise I felt it was better. Cleaner bus, better english speaking and happier looking tour guide in my opinion. This Florence and Pisa on your own was a bit compacted but was perfect for me to see most of the florence by foot, visit david statue(fast lane ticket) and have a drink after taking picture at pisa. No time to eat though so brought my own food. They drove us off in front of the boat when we came back.

I have to say that I was little worried when I booked this excursion. Finally everything was fine and great to have time to visit what we want and just take the time. I am recommending this excursion.

For Florence and Pisa this is exactly what we needed. It was great. Bus was nice and comfortable for the beautiful scenic drive to Florence