Marina di Carrara (for Florence and Pisa) Cruises, Italy
The dramatic white-marked mountains behind Marina di Carrara have played a key role in sculpting Italy’s historic looks. What looks like snow, is in fact some of the purest marble in the world – used to build Rome’s famous Pantheon and Trajan’s Column. Anchoring here means you’re an hour and 45 minutes’ drive from Florence, which is blessed with world-class art and pretty Renaissance buildings. Pisa, meanwhile, lies just 50 minutes down the coast. If you want to stay put, there's a sweep of golden sand just 10 minutes' stroll from the port, as well as a collection of beach clubs with pools.
- Carrara, 20 minutes’ drive inland, is nicknamed the Marble City. You’ll see it pretty much everywhere you look, including the pavements, sculptures, fountains, and the main cathedral.
- Follow in the footsteps of renowned artists Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo with a visit to Florence. It’s dominated by the iconic Duomo, but you’ll also come across galleries housing all the big names in art.
- Scale the world’s most famous wonky wonder in Pisa. It’s a steep climb up almost 300 steps to the top of the tower, but you’ll get the best view of the cathedral below.
SHORE EXCURSIONS View all excursions
Florence & Pisa
The city of art, Florence has so much to offer, from grand old Renaissance churches to timeworn Medieval streets. The city’s historical centre is now a pedestrian zone and this is where your sightseeing begins. Clap eyes on the orange-roofed Duomo and weave your way through the pretty maze of streets to the Gothic Old Palace with its ornate courtyard. You’ll get to see Ponte Vecchio, too, the only bridge in Florence to survive the World War II bombings. After that, you’ll have approximately 45 minutes to explore or just tuck into a tasty lunch in the sun. Then it’s time to head for your second city of the day – Pisa. Once you get here, it's approximately a 20 minute walk to the Miracle Square to see the famous Leaning Tower, one of the most recognised sites in the world.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa
Leaving the port behind, enjoy the gorgeous Tuscan countryside on your way to Pisa. When you get here, an escort will walk you through to Miracle Square where you’ll meet your official guide. Your walking tour will focus on this famous meeting point, otherwise known as Campo dei Miracoli, one of the most beautiful squares in the world. Visit the 13th-century cathedral, with its Tuscan-Romanesque facade and Muslim-inspired interior. See the Baptistery, built between 1153 and 1278, and, of course, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, where Galileo conducted his gravity experiments. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to shop for souvenirs before meeting with your escort and returning to Marina di Carrara.
Florence On Your Own
Like to do your own thing? Been to Florence before and want to explore under your own steam this time? Then this flexible option is the perfect choice. You’ll drive to Florence with a local escort, who’ll be there to assist you, give you advice and point out the main places of interest. Spend your free time strolling around the quaint streets of this romantic city, doing a little shopping 'Italian-style' or calling in at some of the galleries and museums that find a home here. It’s the perfect tour for anyone looking to discover the hidden beauties of Florence at their own pace!