While reading through all of the messages posted I am hearing two different views from people. Some are saying to do Pisa in the morning and Lucca in the afternoon which is what we were planning. I did read that you should do Lucca in the morning because the town shuts down in the afternoon?? We will be going on Thursday Sept 21, 2006. Does the town in fact close down in the afternoon or is that certain days of the week. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

Sorry but to clarify we are taking a day trip from Florence to Pisa and Lucca on Sept 21, 2006

digs,

Yes, Lucca does close down for siesta hours,(usually 12:30 -3:30 or 4:00 during the week and Saturdays) but then, so does Pisa, except for places that cater more to tourists. I suggest you begin in Lucca, sightsee in the morning until lunchtime, have a long, leisurely meal, then depart for Pisa, not far...by the time you arrive, Pisa should just be coming to life again....

We did just the opposite and had no problem. We drove in early to Pisa. Once you see the Tower & Duomo you're done with Pisa. Lucca was lovely. If you leave early enough you'll be back in Florence for dinner.
Be sure to visit Fiosile (?spelling) a 15 to 20 min trip from Florence.

>Be sure to visit Fiosile (?spelling) a 15 to 20 min trip from Florence. <

Fiesole

Take the no. 7 bus from the SMN station.

Either way, do not miss Lucca. As a day trip, it does seem to make more sense to do Pisa (less to see) first, then head for Lucca -- you can have lunch there and by the time you finish, everything will be open again.