Port
Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy
Activity Level
Strenuous
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At
$149.95
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a monument to determination and medieval architecture. Discover the wonder and majesty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Journey through the hills of Tuscany to Pisa -- one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. The Piazza dei Miracoli, located on the northern edge of the city, is your destination. Set off on a walking tour among the monuments to Pisa’s glory days. In the heart of the Piazza sits the duomo -- the Cathedral of Pisa, built in 1064. This imposing Romanesque structure features a four-tiered façade of gray-and-white striped marble. The circular baptistery, begun in 1152 in Romanesque style, was completed a century later in a more ornate Gothic style. The Campo Santo Cemetery is believed to hold earth from Golgotha -- the hill where Jesus was crucified -- brought here by the Crusaders.
Next, stroll to the Piazza’s crowning glory -- the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Called one of the Seven Wonders of the Medieval World, the Tower was originally designed as the cathedral’s campanile or bell tower. Construction began in 1173, but by the time the third floor was finished in 1178, it was apparent that the tower had begun to lean. Climb the 297-step spiral staircase to the top of the Leaning Tower.
Then, relax in a nearby café with a beverage or a gelato.
Some free time allows you to further explore the piazza, taking photos, meandering through the nearby Orto Botanico (one of Europe’s oldest botanic gardens), or visiting the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo -- a modern museum inside the cathedral’s former Chapter House.
Finally, walk back to your coach and return via the same scenic route to the ship in Livorno.
Notes:
Minimum age is 8 years. Restoration work may be underway at the various venues; scaffolding can obscure views. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Modest attire is required for visiting churches or cathedrals; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered; shorts are not allowed. If you wish to independently visit the cathedral, baptistery or cemetery, an admission fee is required; bring local currency. Climbing the Leaning Tower is not suitable for guests with a fear of heights. Bags are not permitted inside the tower and must be checked before entry. This excursion is non-refundable. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.