From Florence: Day Trip in Pisa and Castiglioncello Beach
One day, two iconic Tuscan destinations — medieval marble and turquoise coastline.
This Florence to Pisa and Castiglioncello day trip takes you beyond the city walls and into a side of Tuscany that most visitors never see, combining the architectural splendor of Pisa with a relaxed afternoon on one of the region's most cherished stretches of coastline.
The journey begins at Florence's Santa Maria Novella station, where a train ride through rolling Tuscan hills delivers you to Pisa's Piazza dei Miracoli. The square's concentration of medieval marble monuments — the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery — makes for an arresting first stop before the pace slows considerably at the coast.
Castiglioncello is the kind of seaside town that Tuscans tend to keep to themselves. Framed by fragrant pine forests and rocky coves, it offers calm turquoise water, a relaxed promenade, and the kind of unhurried afternoon that cities rarely allow. A plate of spaghetti alle vongole and a glass of chilled Vermentino at a local trattoria complete the picture.
The full circuit — Florence to Pisa to coast and back — unfolds entirely by train, making it an accessible and low-effort escape that still packs in genuine variety. Difficulty is rated easy, and the itinerary suits a wide range of travelers looking for a change of scene from Florence's museums and crowds.
Tour Highlights
Stand before the Leaning Tower of Pisa and explore the monuments of Piazza dei Miracoli at your own pace.
Swim in the clear turquoise waters of Castiglioncello, a beloved Tuscan seaside destination favored by locals.
Travel the entire route by scenic train through the Tuscan countryside, with no driving or parking required.
Stroll along pine-shaded promenades and discover the rocky coves that define Castiglioncello's natural charm.
Enjoy a freshly brewed cappuccino at a local Pisan café before heading toward the Tyrrhenian coast.
Follow a guide-curated route that skips tourist traps and focuses on authentic, local experiences.
Itinerary
The day begins at Santa Maria Novella station in Florence, where the group boards a train bound for Pisa. The ride passes through the Tuscan countryside, offering views of vineyards and hilltop villages along the way.
Upon arrival in Pisa, the group makes its way to the Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy's most iconic public spaces. The Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery stand together in a composition of white marble that rewards both the camera and the eye.
Time is set aside for a cappuccino at a local café and independent exploration of the city center before the group reconvenes for the next leg of the journey. Pisa's streets beyond the Piazza offer a quieter, more residential side of the city.
A short scenic train ride connects Pisa to the coastal town of Castiglioncello, located on the Etruscan Riviera of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The arrival marks the transition from sightseeing to leisure.
The afternoon is spent freely at Castiglioncello's public beaches and rocky coves, with time for swimming, sunbathing, and a leisurely lunch at a seaside trattoria. The guide can recommend local dishes and wine pairings suited to the setting.
The day concludes with a comfortable train journey back to Florence, arriving at Santa Maria Novella station after approximately 11 hours. The route follows the same scenic Tuscan landscape traveled that morning.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional guide throughout the day
- Train travel between Florence, Pisa, and Castiglioncello
- Guided visit to Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa
- Access to public beaches at Castiglioncello
- Local restaurant recommendations for lunch
Not Included
- Entry tickets to Leaning Tower interior or Cathedral
- Meals, drinks, and personal expenses
- Gratuities for the guide
- Travel insurance
Important Information
Ready to Escape the City?
A single day is all it takes to move from Florence's Renaissance streets to a sunlit cove on the Tuscan coast. Secure your spot on this guided day trip and experience the best of Pisa and Castiglioncello in one well-paced journey.
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