Lucca Barga and Garfagnana Hills Full-Day Trip by Minivan From Pisa

Tuscany’s enchanting landscapes come alive on the "Lucca Barga and Garfagnana Hills Full-Day Trip by Minivan From Pisa." This immersive small-group tour takes travelers through the historic streets of Lucca, showcasing its Renaissance walls and Puccini’s birthplace. The journey then ventures into the lush Garfagnana region, where the stunning views from the hilltop town of Barga and the impressive 14th-century Devil’s Bridge await. With a knowledgeable guide and seamless hotel pickup, this tour promises a memorable day exploring Tuscany’s hidden gems. What secrets and surprises will this picturesque day hold?

Quick Points

• A full-day small-group minivan tour that explores the Tuscan countryside, including the historic city of Lucca, the Garfagnana region, and the hilltop town of Barga.
• Highlights of the tour include guided walks, visits to medieval fortresses, and opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
• The tour includes a visit to Lucca, the birthplace of the renowned composer Puccini, and a chance to explore the city’s Renaissance-era walls and landmarks.
• The tour explores the emerald landscapes of the Garfagnana region, featuring rolling meadows, ancient forests, and rugged mountainous terrain, including a stop at the impressive Devil’s Bridge.
• The tour includes panoramic views of the Garfagnana valley from the hilltop town of Barga, as well as a guided exploration of its charming medieval streets and the ornate façade of its 14th-century cathedral.

Tour Overview

On this full-day small-group minivan tour from Pisa, travelers will explore the Tuscan countryside, including the historic city of Lucca, the picturesque Garfagnana hill country, and the charming town of Barga.

The tour’s highlights include a guided walk through Lucca, the birthplace of the renowned composer Puccini, a visit to the massive fortress and Devil’s Bridge in the Garfagnana region, and panoramic valley views from the hilltop cathedral in Barga.

Throughout the journey, the driver-guide will provide insights and share the rich history and natural beauty of these Tuscan gems.

This immersive exploration offers travelers a chance to experience the essence of Tuscany beyond the typical tourist sites.

Lucca: Birthplace of Puccini

The historic city of Lucca, renowned as the birthplace of the renowned composer Giacomo Puccini, beckons visitors with its well-preserved Renaissance-era walls and charming cobblestone streets. During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore the city’s key landmarks, including the iconic Basilica of San Frediano and the magnificent Duomo di Lucca. As they wander through the quaint piazzas and along the tree-lined promenades, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Lucca’s rich cultural heritage and its enduring legacy as the home of one of Italy’s most celebrated musical talents.

Lucca’s Highlights	Description
Basilica of San Frediano	A Romanesque cathedral known for its stunning façade and intricate mosaics
Duomo di Lucca	The city’s magnificent cathedral, featuring a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements
Puccini’s Birthplace	The humble abode where the legendary composer was born, now a museum dedicated to his life and work

Garfagnana’s Emerald Landscape

Leaving the historic charm of Lucca behind, the tour then winds its way through the stunning Garfagnana hills, a region renowned for its verdant, emerald-hued landscapes.

Characterized by rolling meadows, ancient forests, and rushing streams, this picturesque area offers a glimpse into the untamed beauty of Tuscany’s countryside.

As the minivan climbs higher into the hills, passengers are rewarded with sweeping vistas of the rugged, mountainous terrain.

The tour makes a stop at a massive medieval fortress, where travelers can marvel at the region’s rich history and dramatic natural scenery.

With its lush, pristine environment, the Garfagnana hills provide a peaceful respite from the bustling city life.

The Mighty Fortress

As the tour winds its way deeper into the Garfagnana hills, the group’s attention is immediately drawn to a massive, imposing fortress that looms ahead.

This is the Devil’s Bridge, a 14th-century marvel of engineering that spans a deep, rocky ravine. The bridge’s sturdy stone arches and imposing size suggest it was built to withstand the test of time.

Stepping closer, the travelers can’t help but be awed by the sheer scale and craftsmanship of this historic structure.

The guide explains how it was a vital transportation link, allowing people and goods to cross the treacherous terrain.

It’s a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the region’s ancestors.

Panoramic Views of Barga

Climbing the winding roads, the group soon reaches the hilltop town of Barga. From the elevated position, they’re treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding Garfagnana valley.

The massive 14th-century cathedral dominates the skyline, its ornate façade and bell tower commanding attention. The guide leads them through the charming medieval streets, pointing out architectural gems along the way.

As they ascend the steps to the cathedral, the sweeping views of the lush, rolling hills come into full focus. It’s the perfect spot to appreciate the natural beauty and rich history of this picturesque Tuscan region.

Inclusions and Booking Details

The tour package typically includes an experienced driver/guide and a tour leader to accompany the group throughout the day.

Pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Pisa are complimentary, and gratuities are also covered in the price.

The tour can accommodate a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience.

The tour is priced from $191.13 per person, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour is stroller-accessible and offers infant seats, though infants must sit on laps.

Hotel Pickup and Drop-off

Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour package. The tour begins at 8:45 am, and the driver/guide will collect you from your Pisa hotel.

This personalized service ensures a seamless start to your day exploring the Tuscan countryside. At the end of the tour, you’ll be dropped back off at your hotel, allowing for a hassle-free return.

The tour requires a minimum of 4 participants to operate, with a maximum of 8 travelers per minivan. This small-group format provides an intimate and tailored experience throughout your full-day adventure in Lucca, Barga, and the Garfagnana hills.

Traveler Reviews and Recommendations

According to the 5-star reviews, travelers highly recommend this full-day tour exploring the Tuscan countryside. Reviewers praised the knowledgeable and personable guides, who provided insightful commentary on the history and culture of the region.

The tour’s highlights, including the picturesque town of Lucca, the dramatic Devil’s Bridge, and the panoramic views from Barga’s hilltop cathedral, were also widely applauded. The small-group format and comfortable minivan transportation further contributed to an exceptional overall experience.

Here are three reasons why this tour is highly recommended:

1. Immersive exploration of Tuscany’s natural and cultural gems
2. Knowledgeable and engaging guides who bring the region to life
3. Seamless logistics and comfortable transportation

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Lunch on the Tour?

The tour includes lunch, so bringing your own is not necessary. However, if you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can notify the tour operator in advance to accommodate your needs.

Is the Tour Operated in English Only?

The tour is operated in English only. The driver/guide will provide commentary and lead the group throughout the day’s activities, ensuring participants can fully experience and understand the highlights of the Tuscan countryside.

Are There Any Restroom Stops During the Tour?

The tour includes several restroom stops throughout the day to allow travelers to take breaks. Restroom facilities are available at various points of interest visited during the excursion, ensuring a comfortable experience for all participants.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour policy states that only service animals are permitted, as the minivan and touring sites may not be suitable or comfortable for pets. Travelers are advised to make other arrangements for their pets during the day.

Does the Tour Make Any Shopping Stops?

The tour does not include any scheduled stops for shopping. The focus is on exploring the Tuscan countryside, including the historic towns of Lucca and Barga, as well as the scenic Garfagnana hills. The itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive sightseeing experience.

The Final Verdict

This Tuscany tour offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and culture. From the Renaissance charm of Lucca to the breathtaking vistas of Garfagnana, travelers will be enchanted by the region’s timeless allure. The knowledgeable guide and seamless logistics ensure a memorable experience, making this day trip an ideal way to discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of this picturesque corner of Italy.