Cruising Florence’s Arno River gives travelers a refreshing break from the city’s crowded streets and museums. While not as famous as Venice’s canals, these waterways offer peaceful views of Renaissance bridges and palaces from a unique vantage point. The best options include small-group river cruises that pass under the historic Ponte Vecchio, and sunset tours combining wine tasting with city views. Private boat excursions departing from La Spezia are worth considering for those wanting to combine Florence and Pisa in one memorable day. To help plan your Italian water adventure, let’s explore our favorite Florence boat tours.
Key Points
- Private boat tours along the Arno River offer unique city views, wine tasting, and historical storytelling, with prices starting at $122.49 per person.
- Full-day Cinque Terre and Portovenere exploration from Florence includes scenic train and boat tours, but may have accessibility challenges and mixed reviews.
- Guided gondola tours along the Arno River provide a traditional Florence experience, with prices around £48.93 for a 1-hour excursion.
- Tuscany cruises feature lunch, drinks, and scenic views of vineyards and medieval towns, with tours rated 4.5/5 stars by thousands of travelers.
- “Wine on Water” tours offer Tuscan aperitif and scenic views, priced from $167.58, providing a relaxing and culinary experience.
Pisa and Florence From the Cruise Port of La Spezia
This private tour allows cruise passengers disembarking at the port of La Spezia to make the most of their time, exploring the iconic cities of Pisa and Florence.
Travelers are transported in a comfortable Mercedes Benz Minivan, with an English-speaking driver who provides local insights and recommendations.
The tour includes visits to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Statue of David in Florence, as well as opportunities for shopping and dining.
Reviewers praise the personalized attention, punctual service, and overall comfortable transit experience.
With flexible booking options and free cancellation, this tour is a convenient way for cruisers to maximize their time ashore.
Read our full review: Pisa and Florence From the Cruise Port of La Spezia Review
Book now: Check availability
Florence: Private Boat Tour With Wine
A private boat tour along the serene Arno River offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Florence from a different perspective.
This 1-hour tour provides the best views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi. Accompanied by a live guide in English and Italian, the experience combines wine tasting and historical storytelling for a slow, sustainable exploration of the city.
Priced from $122.49 per person, the tour includes wine and nibbles on board. While not suitable for those with mobility issues or prone to seasickness, the tour operates rain or shine, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Florence: Private Boat Tour With Wine Review
Book now: Check availability
Cinque Terre by Train With Portovenere by Boat From Florence
Travelers looking to explore the picturesque Cinque Terre region can embark on a full-day journey from Florence that includes both a train ride and a boat tour.
The tour covers a long day, running from 6:30 am to 9:30 pm, with a maximum of 50 participants. While the tour is accessible for strollers, it may pose challenges for those with mobility issues due to uneven surfaces.
Highlights include scenic views from the ferry, picturesque towns, and medieval buildings.
Reviews indicate mixed experiences, with some praising the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable ferry ride, while others critiqued the long travel times and lack of historical context from certain guides.
Read our full review: Cinque Terre by Train With Portovenere by Boat From Florence Review
Book now: Check availability
Florence: Gondola Boat Tour With Wine or Coffee and Snack
For those seeking a truly immersive Florentine experience, a guided gondola boat tour along the iconic Arno River beckons.
Priced at £48.93 per person, this 1-hour excursion offers a delightful mix of history, sights, and relaxation. Guests will embark on a mini-cruise, passing by landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio, while enjoying live commentary and a glass of chilled wine.
The traditional gondola ride, conducted by an expert barcaiolo, immerses travelers in the city’s timeless charm.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 151 reviews, this tour promises a memorable and insightful glimpse into Florence’s waterways and architectural wonders.
Read our full review: Florence: Gondola Boat Tour With Wine or Coffee and Snack Review
Book now: Check availability
Florence River Cruise on a Traditional Barchetto
Embarking on a Florence river cruise aboard a traditional barchetto offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s architectural wonders.
The 45-minute journey showcases iconic sites like the Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, and Santa Trinita Bridge, while an expert guide provides insightful commentary.
Travelers can sip on chilled Tuscan wines as they glide along the river, seeing the city’s rich history.
Although the tour may be challenged by inclement weather, the overall experience earns high praise, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from 340 reviews.
With a maximum group size of 14, the river cruise offers an intimate and memorable way to explore Florence from a unique perspective.
Read our full review: Florence River Cruise on a Traditional Barchetto Review
Book now: Check availability
Tuscany: Cruise With Lunch and a Drink
Often, visitors can enjoy a serene Tuscany cruise complete with a delectable lunch and refreshing drink.
This 5.5-hour tour allows travelers to explore the picturesque countryside and sample local culinary delights. For €55.00 per person, guests can take in the stunning views of vineyards and medieval towns while savoring a traditional Tuscan lunch and drinks.
The tour is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,366 travelers, suggesting a well-received experience.
This cruise through the Chianti region provides an opportunity to take in the beauty and flavors of the Tuscan landscape, making it a popular choice for those seeking a relaxing and authentic day trip from Florence.
Read our full review: Tuscany: Cruise With Lunch and a Drink Review
Book now: Check availability
Livorno Private Departure Transfer: Central Florence to Cruise Port
Travelers departing from central Florence and heading to the Livorno Cruise Port can opt for a private transfer service.
This one-way transfer costs $158.45 per person based on a group of 8 adults. The service includes pickup from the main city of Florence and drop-off at the Livorno Cruise Port.
Travelers can confirm their preferred pickup time and location. The transfer is non-wheelchair accessible, and there are restrictions on oversized luggage.
Customers have provided positive reviews, highlighting the timeliness, vehicle quality, and driver friendliness.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later for this private tour that’s available based on group size and date.
Read our full review: Livorno Private Departure Transfer: Central Florence to Cruise Port Review
Book now: Check availability
Florence Sunset Boat Cruise With Prosecco on Board
Enjoy a serene 45-minute boat cruise along the Arno River in Florence, offering a unique perspective on the city’s renowned Renaissance heritage.
The cruise includes a glass of Prosecco and knowledgeable commentary from a local guide, allowing you to admire landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio and Uffizi Gallery.
Ideal for a tranquil escape from the crowds, the private tour is limited to your group. Meeting at a hotel on the Arno, the experience also includes a 1-hour walking tour and an optional dinner.
With positive reviews highlighting the relaxing atmosphere and insightful guides, this cruise provides an enchanting way to experience Florence’s beauty and history.
Read our full review: Florence Sunset Boat Cruise With Prosecco on Board Review
Book now: Check availability
Wine on Water: a Private Boat Tour in Florence With a Floating Tuscan Aperitif
For those seeking a delightful way to explore Florence’s picturesque Arno River, the “Wine on Water” private boat tour offers a unique culinary experience.
Passengers can indulge in a typical Tuscan aperitif, including local wine, bread with truffle sauce, schiacciata with tomato and mozzarella, and a sandwich with capocollo, all while taking in scenic views of landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Corsini.
The traditional rowing boat cruise route covers the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Holy Trinity Bridge.
Priced from $167.58 per person, the tour is a private experience, non-refundable, and has received an overall rating of 5.0 based on 2 reviews.
Read our full review: Wine on Water: a Private Boat Tour in Florence With a Floating Tuscan Aperitif Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Florence offers a variety of boat tours and cruises, from exploring the Cinque Terre by train and boat to enjoying a relaxing sunset cruise on the river with a glass of Prosecco. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, wine tasting, or simply taking in the city’s picturesque scenery, there’s a boat tour or cruise to suit your interests.