pisa italy travel

Pisa Guide: Planning Your Trip

What to Know When Visiting Pisa, Italy

• Planning Your Trip

Things To Do

• Where to Eat and Drink
• Where to Stay
• Getting There
• Money Saving Tips

There’s more to Pisa than its legendary leaning tower, though it’s true a trip to the square by the cathedral and tower can easily occupy several hours. Whether you’re passing through as part of a larger trip around Italy or are focusing on visiting some smaller Tuscan towns nearby, Pisa is worthy of a visit in its own right. Located about an hour west of Florence, the city was one of four great maritime republics during the Middle Ages and as a result, has retained a good selection of monuments and buildings from that era. It's a good city for strolling and enjoying at a leisurely pace, with the Arno River, a university, and several interesting museums.

Planning Your Trip 

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are the most pleasant times to visit Pisa, mostly because it’s less crowded during the “shoulder seasons” and the weather isn’t as dramatically hot or cold.
• Language: While Italian is the national language and most people in Pisa speak it, many are also familiar with English, especially in touristy areas near the leaning tower. That said, learning a few Italian phrases can go a long way with locals and help you have a more meaningful experience as you travel around the city.
• Currency: The euro is the official currency of Italy. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, though it’s sometimes easier to carry cash if you’re heading to the markets or will be dining at smaller eateries. Note that throughout Italy, American Express and Diners Club cards are not as widely accepted.
• Getting Around: Pisa is a very walkable city, though you can get around by local bus or by using the hop-on-hop-off tourist bus, which operates April through October.
• Travel Tip:  If you're visiting Pisa during the high season, consider spending the night so you can take in the sights in the morning or evening instead of in the afternoon when most visitors make the rounds for a few hours on day trips.

Everyone’s going to ask if you went to see the leaning tower of Pisa, so you might as well do it right. After you've taken your fair share of tacky tourist photos (will you try to hold it up or knock it down?) allow enough time to check out the rest of the Piazza del Duomo or Campo dei Miracoli (“Field of Miracles”), as it's often called. Climb to the top of the 183-foot (56 meter) leaning tower, explore the Duomo (Cathedral) and its Campo Santo (cemetery), which both date back to 1063, and have a look at the Battistero (Baptistery), which was built in the late 1300s.

Keep in mind that it’s a 20-minute walk from Pisa Centrale train station to where the leaning tower is, so you might want to pick up some snacks from a local vendor or create your own Italian-style picnic to have while you get a better look at these magnificent structures. Better yet, pick up some gelato along the way to or from the area to enjoy as you walk. Our complete guide to visiting the Leaning Tower has more helpful tips.

• History buffs should visit Museo Nazionale (the National Museum of Pisa) to view artifacts and learn more about the city's interesting past. Admire the 13th-century gothic architecture of Santa Maria Della Spina (the Church of Santa Maria) just across the Arno River, and stroll through Piazza dei Cavalieri past historic buildings from the 1500s that were once the mark of Medici power. If you're into architecture, don't miss Borgo Stretto , a beautiful street that's home to high-end shops; it starts at Piazza Garibaldi near Ponte de Mezzo , which is also worth checking out.
• Enjoy views from Torre Guelfa (Guelph Tower), which was originally built as part of a shipyard, served as a fortress, was bombed during WWII, and was eventually restored in 1956. You also shouldn't miss Orto Botanical di Pisa (Botanical Garden of Pisa), a stunning green space built by the Medici family in 1544 that's now part of the University of Pisa.
• Consider a day trip to Italy’s scenic Cinque Terre region (named for the five hillside towns of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Monterosso Al Mare), about 90 minutes away by car or train; Florence , just an hour’s drive to the east; or venture out and explore Lucca or the farms and wineries of Tuscany with a rental car.
• Experience the annual Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics, a boat race between Pisa, Venice, Genoa, and Amalfi, every four years (time of year varies). Or plan your trip around the Gioco del Pont e or " bridge game," a re-enactment of a medieval contest between Pisans living north of the Arno River and those living south of the river that takes place each year on the last Sunday of June.

Explore more attractions with our full-length article about Pisa tourist attractions , with more details about the town's top sights and tips for what to see and do during your stay.

Where to Eat and Drink 

Like much Italian food, Pisan cuisine focuses mostly on fresh, simple ingredients, though its cooking styles differ from those you’ll find in other parts of Tuscany. Oil and wine play an important role in most recipes, and dishes made with fish, game (wild boar, rabbit, or pheasant), or regional favorites like pesto with pine nuts are very popular. For dessert, try torta co’ bischeri (pilgrim cake), a tasty tart made with white rice, regionally sourced pine nuts, dark chocolate, raisins, spices, and candied fruit. Located in a 15th-century palazzo, Caffe dell'Ussuro (Lungamo Pacinotti 27) is a historic Pisan café that first opened in 1794; you'll find more traditional food at Al Ristoro dei Vecchi Macelli (Via Volturno 49) and Antica Trattoria da Bruno (Via Bianchi 12).

While Pisa isn’t necessarily known for its wine, Tuscany, the region in which Pisa resides, is full of wineries, many of which you can tour if you’ve got the time. Nearby, Florence boasts the Negroni, a simple cocktail made with red vermouth, gin, and Campari bitters.

Explore our articles on the best foods to try in Italy , the best dining , and where to learn how to cook .

Where to Stay 

Like any major European city, you’ll find your share of branded hotels as well as a number of bed and breakfasts and budget-friendly hostels. Pisa is also home to several top-rated independent hotels. There’s a type of accommodation for everyone, whether you prefer to stay closer to the airport, along the Arno River, near the beaches outside Pisa, or elsewhere in Tuscany. But if you really want to experience Pisa like a local, consider staying in an Airbnb or VRBO vacation rental in the historic center.

Getting There 

Because of Pisa’s centralized location in Italy, it’s easy to get there by bus, train, plane, or car from other major hubs like Florence (1.5 hours by train or an hour and 10 minutes by car), Rome (2.5 hours by train or four hours by car) and Milan (three hours by train or car), among other cities throughout Europe.

• Pisa International Airport (also called Galileo Galilei Airport) offers flights to and from several Italian cities as well as other parts of Europe and the U.K. If you’re coming from the U.S., you’ll need to fly into a major airport in Rome or Milan, then take a train, bus, or car the rest of the way to Pisa.
• Rent a car at the airport through Avis, Europcar, among other brands, then take the A11 or A12 Autostrada to reach the city center. Pisa is also easily reachable by train or bus from Florence, Rome, and other coastal cities throughout Tuscany , while local buses serve nearby towns.
• If you’re able to connect through another city and land at Pisa International Airport, you can either walk 20 minutes, take a local bus, or hop on the spiffy PisaMover shuttle rail to Pisa Centrale train station, connecting you with Pisa’s city center and other points throughout Italy.

For more ways to get around Italy by flying, see our guide to Italian airports .

Money Saving Tips 

• While most Pisa attractions are pretty inexpensive at just a few euros each, you can save even more by sticking to what’s free, like admiring the outside of the famous leaning tower and its buildings from the square instead of paying extra to climb up it.
• Take a scenic stroll along the Arno River, or follow along with this free walking tour guide to see some of the best parts of Pisa.
• Instead of spending money at pricey restaurants around town, gather some fresh sandwich-making materials, fruit, vegetables, and local ingredients from a weekend market ( Mercato delle Vettovaglie , which means “supply square” in Italian, is a popular choice, open most mornings and afternoons except Sunday) and throw yourself an Italian-style picnic.

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Getty Images/AWL Images RM

Once a maritime power to rival Genoa and Venice, modern Pisa is best known for an architectural project gone terribly wrong. But the world-famous Leaning Tower is just one of many noteworthy sights in this compelling city. Education has fuelled the local economy since the 1400s, and students from across Italy compete for places in its elite university. This endows the centre of town with a vibrant cafe and bar scene, balancing an enviable portfolio of well-maintained Romanesque buildings, Gothic churches and Renaissance piazzas with a lively street life dominated by locals rather than tourists – a charm you will definitely not discover if you restrict your visit to Piazza dei Miracoli.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Pisa. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Leaning Tower

One of Italy's signature sights, the Torre Pendente truly lives up to its name, leaning a startling 3.9 degrees off the vertical. The 58m-high tower,…

Pisa's magnificent duomo was begun in 1064 and consecrated in 1118. Its striking tiered exterior, with green-and-cream marble cladding, gives onto a…

Pisa's unusual round baptistry has one dome piled on top of another, each roofed half in lead, half in tiles, and topped by a gilt bronze John the Baptist…

Mura di Pisa (Main Entrance)

For an alternative bird's-eye perspective of the Leaning Tower and grandiose Piazza dei Miracoli rooftops, take a walk atop Pisa's medieval city walls,…

Piazza dei Miracoli

Pisans claim that Campo dei Miracoli is among the world's most beautiful urban spaces. Its walled lawns provide a photogenic setting for the candy-striped…

Soil shipped from Calvary during the Crusades is said to lie within the white walls of this hauntingly beautiful resting place for many prominent Pisans,…

Museo delle Sinopie

Home to some fascinating frescoes, this museum safeguards several sinopie (preliminary sketches), drawn by the artists in red earth pigment on the walls…

Museo Nazionale di San Matteo

This inspiring repository of medieval masterpieces sits in a 13th-century Benedictine convent on the Arno's northern waterfront boulevard. The museum's…

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Latest stories from Pisa

May 21, 2018 • 2 min read

One of the great mysteries of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa is how it could have survived through major earthquakes.

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• Destinations

Pisa: City of the Leaning Tower and More

The Leaning Tower has made Pisa famous all over the world, and in addition to the tower, the city offers many other interesting things to see worth at least an entire day - check out our 1 day in Pisa itinerary to plan your visit. When you first arrive at the beautiful Square of Miracles ( Piazza dei Miracoli ), your sight will be captivated by the magnificent Tower . Don’t just admire it from below: the climb up the tower is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that we highly encourage you to experience. You will enjoy both the incredible climb as well as the amazing views from the top (you can buy tickets in advance as number of entries are limited every half hour)!

Once you have admired the Tower of Pisa from all angles (including the classic picture in which you pretend to support it to keep as a memento), continue your visit to the other monuments in the Piazza: the Cathedral and the Baptistery . Along the perimeter of the square, there is also the Cemetery , the Cathedral Museum and the Museum of the Synopses. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Arno river and on your way, pass by Clock Palace to enter into Piazza dei Cavalieri , which was once the heart of power in the city and later the headquarters of the Knights of St. Stephen . In the Palazzo della Carovana overlooking the square, the prestigious Scuola Normale of Pisa has its base.

What else to do in Pisa? Eat cecina ! It’s a kind of very thin gluten-free bread made with chickpea flour, water, oil, salt and black pepper. You can eat the cecina alone or in a schiacciatina, a flat bread. A real treat you must try!

Annual events

Every June , Pisa celebrates the city’s patron saint, San Ranieri, with traditional events following one another during the Giugno Pisano . If you are in Pisa at this time of the year, we suggest you spend some time in Pisa and enjoy the Luminara , the Regatta of San Ranieri and the Battle of the Bridge .

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to Do in Pisa (Italy)

15 Best Things to Do in Pisa (Italy)

Pisa is a legendary city and one of the most famous in this region of Italy . Tourists often stop at Pisa en-route to Florence but it is a fantastic city to stay in and offers a great deal more sites than just it’s legendary leaning tower. Located on the western coast of Italy, Pisa is only 20 minutes from the Ligurian Sea and has great transport links to Florence , Livorno and La Spezia . With a population of just 91,000 it is one of the smaller cities in the Tuscany region of Italy, but has historically been one of the most important and influential.

During the 11th century and onwards Pisa rose to prominence and became one of the major maritime republics of Italy. The city saw great development and it grew in population and investment was poured into the city to improve its infrastructure and build its world famous monuments that still stand today. During the Middle Ages Pisa was involved in various battles and played an important role in the wars and feuds between the Guelphs and Ghibellines. Today the city still maintains its ports and this accounts for much of its economy, furthermore, due to iconic buildings such as the Leaning Tower, Pisa has a well-developed tourist infrastructure.

For those wishing to visit Pisa, this city has a fantastic array of beautiful historical buildings and indeed it boasts over 20 historical churches. Furthermore Pisa has some world class museums and beautiful scenery along the banks of the River Arno. This historical city is worth much more than just a fleeting visit and serves as a great base for those wishing to explore this region of Tuscany.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Pisa :

1. Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta

This Cathedral is sometimes overshadowed by the leaning tower, but it is a beautiful structure in its own right and is an absolute must when visiting Pisa.

Construction on this amazing cathedral was started in the 11th century and it was completed in 1092. The front façade of the cathedral is truly ornate with a series of beautiful stone and marble arches and three opulent bronze doors.

Furthermore, the interior of the cathedral is absolutely magnificent – the ceiling of the main aisle is covered with gold decoration and the dome of the basilica has a stunning fresco depicting the Assumption of Mary.

This structure truly is a masterpiece of religious construction and is wondrous to behold.

2. Leaning Tower of Pisa

This is by en-large the main reason people visit Pisa and is a structure that is known worldwide.

The Campanile or bell tower of Pisa Cathedral is a beautiful structure in its own right, but it has been made famous by its noticeable tilt.

Constructed in the 12th century after the cathedral, it was soon found that the foundations were unstable and the building began to lean.

To this day the tower still leans and measures have been taken to ensure it doesn’t collapse.

Aside from posing for funny photos, the architecture of the tower is actually fantastic and the 6 rows of stone arches are simply beautiful.

Furthermore, you can climb to the top of the tower for a surreal tilted view of the surrounding city.

Skip-the-Line tickets available : Timed Entrance Ticket to Leaning Tower of Pisa & Cathedral

3. The Baptistery

Although located within the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Pisa Baptistery is a worthy attraction in its own right.

This structure was created around the same time as the Campanile and was built to replace the old original baptistery.

This immense structure stands at 54m high and has a gorgeous exterior design with many different statues, arches and decoration.

Furthermore, the domed roof of the baptistery is only half complete – half is covered in orange tiles, whilst the other half remains bare and has never been finished.

Inside the baptistery, the opulent decoration continues and you can find a pulpit and a font that are both highly decorated.

4. Campo Santo

The final noteworthy structure within the Square of Miracles is the Monumental Cemetery.

Located to the side of the Cathedral, this complex is made from the same stone as the other buildings and features a beautiful and peaceful interior courtyard.

The interior hallway of the main building is bathed in light and features some beautiful (if not slightly faded) frescos.

Possibly the most well-known part of this complex is the courtyard – a large lawn is surrounded by beautiful flowers and the outside walls are lined with ornate arches to create a charming and photogenic scene.

5. Museo Nazionale

Located on the banks of the Arno River, the National Museum of Pisa is the most prized museum in the city and features some stunning artefacts and sculptures.

If you are looking to learn a little about the history of this fine city, this museum is the place to visit.

Notable objects include original sculptures from the Cathedral and Baptistery and some wonderful paintings dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries.

Furthermore, there is also a series of ancient manuscripts and other religious relics from the various churches in Pisa.

If you choose to visit a museum during your stay in Pisa, make sure it is this one!

6. Santa Maria della Spina

Although this church is really quite small, it is considered one of the most beautiful in Pisa due to its ornate design and riverside location.

You can find the Church of Santa Maria della Spina on the left hand bank of the River Arno opposite the National Museum of Pisa.

Originally created in the 13th century, the building features a Gothic style with a series of opulent pointed pediments and several rose windows.

The interior is quite reserved in comparison and features white and green striped stone walls and a series of sculptures.

When walking along the Lungomare, this church is definitely worth a visit.

7. Palazzo dei Cavalieri

The Knights Square is one of the main squares in Pisa and the Palazzo dei Cavalieri is a beautiful Palace that is the central attraction.

This palace was constructed in the 16th century and was originally the HQ of the Knights of St. Stephen.

The front façade of this palace is truly beautiful and features some spectacular decoration on the stone work.

Furthermore, there is a large central staircase leading up to the main doors and a series of stone statues representing the Dukes of Tuscany.

As one of the premier palaces in Pisa, the Palazzo dei Cavalieri and the Knights Square is a must see.

8. Take a walk along the River Arno

The River Arno is one of the main rivers in Italy and Pisa was built around this waterway.

This river stretches for 241km and has its source at Mount Falterona.

The section of the Arno that runs through Pisa provides a truly beautiful landscape and is an amazing place to simply walk along.

Five gorgeous bridges span the Arno in central Pisa and both the Lungarno Mediceo and Galileo Gallilei run parallel to the river.

The houses and architecture create a gorgeous backdrop and this part of Pisa is truly photogenic.

9. Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

Although this museum has a host of delightful treasures, it is one of the least visited in Pisa! The Cathedral Museum is located in the Piazza dei Miracoli and offers fantastic views of the leaning tower from its second floor windows.

Within this museum you can find a huge collection of artefacts and relics from the Cathedral of Pisa and the surrounding region.

Items include embroidery, tombs, sculptures, paintings and silversmith work.

Furthermore you can also find a number of relics from Pisa’s naval history and a range of religious findings dating back to Roman times.

Each display is beautifully presented and there is an extensive English description.

10. Borgo Stretto

If you are looking for a combination of fantastic architecture and high end retail shopping, the Borgo Stretto is the place to visit! This delightful street is located in the heart of the city and starts at the Piazza Garibaldi next to the Ponte di Mezzo.

On this street you can find a range of designer stores, boutique shops and quaint cafes.

For those who love a little retail therapy there is no better place in Pisa to visit! For those who aren’t interested in shopping, the beautiful architecture of the buildings is still a must-see attraction.

11. Guelph Tower

This attractive and eye-catching structure is located on the banks of the Arno River and is part of the old citadel complex.

This ancient complex of buildings was once the main ship-building area in Pisa during the 13th and 14th centuries.

During the 15th century the tower was constructed however as part of the cities defensive fortifications.

In modern times, the tower has been renovated and is now open to the public.

Once you are at the top, you are granted with fantastic panoramic views of Pisa – you can see the River Arno in all its glory, and even across to the Leaning tower and Cathedral.

12. Keith Haring Mural

Keith Haring is a world renowned artist who is famous for his wall murals.

Although Pisa has a host of historical buildings and beautiful Italian architecture, it does feature a beautiful mural by this American artist.

Located just off of the Piazza di Vittoria Emanuele II the mural is a truly magnificent piece of artwork and displays a vision of peace and harmony.

Bursting with colour, the mural features 30 different figures in various poses and speaks of life and vitality.

For those interested in art, this mural is an absolute must see and it creates a stark contrast to the other buildings in Pisa.

13. University of Pisa Botanical Gardens

This beautiful Botanical Gardens is maintained by Pisa University and is a wonderful place to visit.

Originally the garden was constructed in the 16th century by the Medici family and has been relocated several times.

Located in the heart of the historic old town this garden is easily accessible and contains a beautiful array of plants, trees, flowers and fauna.

The garden is split into several different sections including gardens, ponds, greenhouses and an arboretum.

The structures within the botanical gardens are beautiful and the variety of plants is simply gorgeous.

14. Ponte di Mezzo

The Mezzo Bridge is one of the most beautiful and prominent bridges in Pisa that spans the River Arno.

This bridge is 89m long and was constructed in 1947. White Verona stone has been used to line the sides of the bridge and it was designed by Sergio Aussant from Livorno.

If you are looking for a photogenic view of the River Arno – this is the bridge to cross.

Both sides of the bridge, the architecture is fantastic and the views are sublime.

15. Gelateria De’ Coltelli

Italy is famous for its world class Ice cream parlours and Pisa has the Gelateria De Coltelli.

This ice cream parlour is known throughout Pisa for its divine organic gelato and wonderful range of gorgeous zesty flavours.

Located on the banks of the River Arno, this Gelateria is an absolute must if you wish to try some authentic homemade ice cream.

Flavours available include ginger, pine nuts and honey, candied lemon peel and even kiwi fruit.

Suggested Side Trips :

• From Pisa: Food and Wine Tour of the Tuscan Countryside
• Full-Day San Gimignano, Siena & Chianti Tour from Pisa
• Half-Day Tuscan Hills Wine Tasting From Pisa

15 Best Things to Do in Pisa (Italy):

• Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
• Leaning Tower of Pisa
• The Baptistery
• Campo Santo
• Museo Nazionale
• Santa Maria della Spina
• Palazzo dei Cavalieri
• Take a walk along the River Arno
• Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
• Borgo Stretto
• Guelph Tower
• Keith Haring Mural
• University of Pisa Botanical Gardens
• Ponte di Mezzo
• Gelateria De' Coltelli

11 Best Things To Do in Pisa, Italy

Pisa, Italy , is home to the world-renowned Leaning Tower of Pisa and many other architectural wonders. The city is spectacularly rich in history, from ancient churches and palaces to beautiful Italian squares. After a busy day of sightseeing, wander the old streets, try different gelato flavors, or stroll along the Arno river with the majestic mountains in the background. Enjoy all the top things to do in Pisa!

Things to do in Pisa

Pisa is one of the most popular cities in Italy , mainly because of its famous monument, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The building is definitely a must-see on your trip. However, there’s also much more to see in this beautiful part of Tuscany .

Here are all your hotel options in Pisa.

It’s one of the smaller cities in the region, and because of its size, it’s an excellent place for a weekend city vacation. Alternatively, visit for the day on your Tuscany road trip.

Read: Tuscany road trip guide

Baptisterium

The Baptisterium (place of baptism) sits right by the leaning tower of Pisa in the middle of a vast grass square. The 54 meters high, circular-shaped building has an incredible domed roof and an intricate facade. What’s more, just like the leaning tower of Pisa, this building also leans a little too, although not quite as much!

Hotels in Pisa 😴

Wander around the cylindrical building admiring the details of the architecture before taking a look inside. The interior, although simple, is beautiful. It’s worth visiting for the upper level, where you can see amazing views out over the rest of Pisa.

Entry fee: €7 EUR. Alternatively, book a guided tour that includes entrance to the Baptistery, Cathedral, and Leaning Tower.

Camposanto is a massive cemetery within the same complex as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It was built in 1277 to make the graves next to the cathedral look a bit neater. It’s also said that the soil here came from Jesus’s place of crucifixion! All this history means many famous and influential people are buried here, such as the mathematician Fibonacci, who created the Fibonacci sequence that we still learn in school today.  

The interior of the Camposanto has magnificent frescoes. However, the real highlight is the interior courtyard with its regal columns and arches. 

Also read: Best things to do in Florence, Italy

Cattedrale de Pisa

The Cathedral of Pisa (Santa Maria Assunta) is often forgotten about in favor of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. However, it stands right next door and is a historical gem in its own right. The beautiful Romanesque building is made from white marble that’s been intricately carved and sculpted. Inside, you can find more marble, as well as religious relics, gold gilding, and beautiful paintings.  Book your tickets in advance for the Cathedral here .

Tip: Make sure to see the famous pulpit carved from marble by the renowned sculptor Giovanni Pisano.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa has become famous for its noticeable tilt (of 5.5 degrees), making the building look as if it defies gravity! The eight-story building is the cathedral’s bell tower, although the bells haven’t rung in over 100 years.

This was our hotel next to the Leaning Tower

Why does the Leaning Tower of Pisa tilt?

Construction began in 1172 before they realized the ground they were building on wasn’t stable. Over 200 years, they tried to fix the lean, but it wasn’t possible in the end. Now, measures are taken to prevent its collapse, but its sharp tilt has become a funny phenomenon for tourists to document.

See tickets and availability for a guided tour of the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Although many people come here to get the classic Leaning Tower of Pisa photo, it’s worth taking a good look at the building itself and its fantastic architecture. You can even climb 297 steps to the top of the tower, where you can get great city views. In the past, this wasn’t allowed for fear that it might make the building lean even more! 

Entry fee: To climb the tower, you need to buy a ticket for 18 EUR. Be aware that it will be a long queue. If you want to skip the wait, you can buy ‘skip the line’ tickets for 28 EUR.

Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles)

The leaning tower of Pisa, Cathedral, Camposanto, and Baptisterium all sit in a beautiful grass square that’s free of cars. This area is now a designated UNESCO world heritage site because of its cultural and historical significance. After you’ve visited all the sights, spend a few hours just lying in the grass around the monuments. This is a beautiful way to spend an afternoon in Pisa!

Santa Maria Della Spina

Pisa has lots of churches, but Santa Maria Della Spina is arguably the most beautiful of them all. This tiny church has a detailed Gothic facade and a unique setting on the riverbank. Della Spina means ‘of the thorn’ as one of the thorns from Jesus’ thorn crown once rested at this site.

Entry fee : €1.50 EUR

Gelateria De’ Coltelli

Gelato is life in Italy , and Pisa does it very well. There are plenty of places to grab some refreshing ice cream, but the most famous is the Gelateria De’ Coltelli. It’s known for its exotic gelato flavors, where people can choose anything from candied lemon peel to ginger. Plus, it’s got a great location on the banks of the River Arno. 

Borgo Stretto

Borgo Stretto is the most important shopping street in all of Pisa. However, it’s not just for shopping; it’s the perfect place to admire the beautiful Italian townhouses painted in terracottas and pinks with their wooden shutters and hanging washing.

The ancient street passes adjacent to the river and has many narrow lanes shooting off into cute squares. Walk Borgo Stretto, admiring the stone archways and collonades that house all the cute boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, finding hidden gems around every corner – one of the top things to do in Pisa!

Best things to do in Rome, Italy!

Kieth Haring House

Kieth Haring is a famous artist known for his vibrant murals. He painted this huge mural across one side of a grand Italian house with an array of colors. The abstract piece depicts moving people, meant to represent life and vitality. What’s unusual about this piece is the unique mixture of old and new, with the modern work splashed across a traditional home wall.

Visiting the Keith Haring house is undoubtedly a special thing to do in Pisa!

Palazzo Della Carovana

Palazzo Della Carovana is a stunning square that sits at the very center of Pisa, Italy . Known as the Knights Square, it’s home to fascinating historical buildings such as the magnificent Palace of the Elders and the Normale di Pisa University.

The square is incredibly rich in history. In fact, the university was founded by Napoleon Bonaparte, and the library was once the seat of the government in the middle ages. Now, it’s a great place to come and hang out, watching the students go about their day amongst the series of beautiful buildings.

Sadly, most of these buildings aren’t accessible to the public, but they’re still worth a visit and one of the top things to do in Pisa. 

Parco Don Bosco 

Parco Don Bosco is the city’s park: a beautiful green space filled with pine trees that’s great for escaping the heat and the buzz of the city. Bring a picnic and enjoy some time in the peace of nature. You can also see the remains of a Roman aqueduct that runs right alongside the park. History is everywhere in Pisa!

Also visit: The waterfalls at the Elsa Trail in Tuscany

Best Cafes and Restaurants Pisa

Italy is famous for its delicious food, and Pisa is no exception. Discover beautiful cafes to try variations of freshly made pasta dishes, gelaterias with every flavor you can imagine, and shops selling local cheeses and meats. Make sure to look out for the traditional Tuscan soup and focaccia, or perhaps join a cooking workshop where you can learn how to make pasta like a true local!

Some of our favorite restaurants were:

• Peperoncino
• Pasticceria Dolcepisa (vegan and gluten-free options)
• Ristoro Pecorino
• Filter Coffee Lab (hipster vibe)
• Kabuto Ramen & Bistrot

Tip : Try to stay away from restaurants located right by the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Although the view is good, the prices are much higher, and you’ll find some more authentic places to eat down the narrow streets.

How to Visit Pisa

Pisa’s popularity means it’s really easy to visit from all over the world. It has an international airport with flights running to major destinations around Europe and internationally!

Because of its airport, Pisa is known as the gateway into the Tuscany region, and it’s a great place to base yourself to visit other places in the area.

It’s also got a beautiful train station where you can find trains leaving to other major cities in Italy , such as Rome , Florence , Naples, and Turin. Alternatively, if you’re planning on doing a Tuscany road trip , rent a car from Pisa and use it as a jumping-off point to other destinations in the region.

We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Getting around Pisa

Pisa, although one of the most important cities in Tuscany , is also one of the smallest. Because of this, it’s super easy to see everything the city has to offer on foot. This is also an excellent slow way to take in all your surroundings and find secret spots that you might not have if you were on the bus or metro.

If you want to explore a bit further outside of Pisa, do as the locals do and rent a Vespa or bicycle! There’s nothing better than seeing the beauty of Tuscany with the wind in your hair.

Where to Stay in Pisa

There are lots of great neighborhoods to stay in in Pisa. However, if it’s your first time visiting and you want to be close to all the sights, we recommend staying in the central area of Santa Maria.

We stayed right next to the leaning tower; see the hotel here (and the image below). For a slightly cheaper alternative, choose to stay in the neighborhood of San Giusto, which is near the train station. There are lots of great local cafes and restaurants here too!

Best Time to Visit Pisa

For most people, the main draw of visiting Pisa is the Leaning Tower of Pisa itself. This, and all the other unique historical attractions, means there are often many tourists and long queues.

Because of this, it’s best to visit in the springtime, when you’ll still get pleasant temperatures but queues will be smaller, and the city will, in general, be much quieter. It also means lower prices!

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19 BEST Things to do in Pisa, Italy 2024 // Map & 1-DAY Pisa Itinerary

From the leaning tower of pisa to roman ruins, unique-style pizza to ancient city walls, here are the best things to do in pisa.

Pisa is a popular day trip from Florence and tops the bucket list of many travelers with its iconic leaning tower. But many don’t know that this charming Tuscan town on the tranquil banks of the Arno river has so much more to offer than just a tower that made history with its iconic tilt. 

Once a thriving maritime power hub, Pisa is a treasure trove of history, fascinating sights, and quaint corners of Italian daily life. Its diverse attractions perfectly blend past and present, culture and relaxation. So, while the leaning tower may be the town’s most famous landmark, it’s just the tip of the iceberg in terms of attractions in Pisa.

Table of contents

Use the links below to get the most out of this comprehensive travel guide to the best things to do in Pisa, Italy.  

• How to get to Pisa

Tips for visiting Pisa

Map of things to do in pisa.

• Best things to do in Pisa
• Recommended Itinerary: Things to do in Pisa for a day trip

If you land at Pisa Airport, hop onto the PisaMover shuttle (€5 one way) for a quick and comfortable ride to Pisa Centrale. From there, catch the ROSSA bus, which will take you straight to Campo dei Miracoli where the Leaning Tower of Pisa is located. 

If you’re only stopping in Pisa for a short time and planning to continue your journey to Florence , you can easily leave your luggage at the train station baggage deposit . This way, you won’t have to worry about dragging it around the city, and you can pick it up on your way back.  

While it may be tempting to rent a car to get around, navigating the city’s narrow streets can be pretty challenging, especially since the city center is a limited traffic zone. You wouldn’t want to risk a hefty fine, would you? However, if you do have a rental car, your best bet is to look for a free or paid parking spot outside the city center and then hop on public transportation to reach the main attractions in Pisa.

If the thought of wandering around on your own seems overwhelming, you can treat yourself to a half-day guided tour of Pisa from Florence or opt for a broader excursion that includes other Tuscan highlights, such as this guided day trip from Florence.   

Piazza Martiri della Libertà

June, however, is still a great month, especially if you’re interested in local festivals. It’s the month that celebrates the city’s patron saint San Ranieri when Pisa truly comes alive with some fantastic celebrations. The Luminary on June 16th is particularly noteworthy, as the buildings lining the river banks are adorned with countless wax candles, creating a stunning spectacle at night, complete with fireworks. Other notable festivals include the Historical Regatta of San Ranieri on June 17th and the Battle of the Bridge on the last Saturday of the month, during which the city’s districts challenge each other on the Ponte di Mezzo bridge.

Pisa is a small city that’s easily explored on foot. While the Campo dei Miracoli with the Leaning Tower are must-see attractions, be sure to venture into the historic center and explore as much of the city as possible. You’ll be surprised at how much Pisa has to offer. 

To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit the Leaning Tower and its neighboring attractions early in the morning or much later in the afternoon. This way, you can avoid the peak times of large tour groups and have a more enjoyable experience.

Watch my Florence to Pisa day trip video

Best things to do in pisa , how to get to pisa , 1. campo dei miracoli – home to the leaning tower of pisa.

Campo dei Mircoli is a true artistic and architectural masterpiece that’s been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, cementing its place as a wonder of the world. While its location outside of city center may seem odd for what’s considered to be the heart of Pisa, it’s important to note that the city was once a major maritime power (rivalling the likes of Venice) so by placing its religious center outside the protective walls, it showed it feared no threat. Or, perhaps the sheer grandeur of the monuments simply required more space than the walls could contain!  

The piazza covers an impressive 22 acres, and its magnificent buildings, constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries, are intricately linked, showcasing a continuous dialogue between heaven and earth. Notably, the piazza’s three most prominent structures – the Baptistery, the Cathedral, and the Campo Santo – embody distinct stages of life: birth, life, and death, respectively.

Tickets to the sites on Campo dei Miracoli can be purchased online up to 20 days in advance. There are tickets for single sites or 10€ combo tickets that grant access to all monuments and museums in the square, except for the Tower. If you want Leaning Tower of Pisa tickets, you’ll need to purchase the combo ticket which costs 27€. 

With so much to see in the square, exploring on your own can be overwhelming. To save time and make sure you don’t miss anything important, consider taking a guided visit like this comprehensive tour of Miracle Square , which includes skip-the-line entry to the Leaning Tower.

2. Pisa Cathedral in Piazza del Duomo

As you approach the Cathedral, you can’t help but be captivated by its grandeur. The facade has massive bronze portals, polychrome marble, and impressive decorative features. But the true beauty lies within the five-nave interiors, where you will find granite columns from Elba island (Tuscany’s biggest island and Italy’s third-largest,), a wooden ceiling with gilded coffers, and exquisite artworks, including a mosaic piece by Cimabue. 

The Cathedral also serves as the final resting place of San Ranieri, the city’s patron saint. On June 16th, the city dedicates a beautiful festival to him, while on June 17th, a historic Regatta takes place on the Arno river, commemorating the saint’s life and legacy.

How to visit: Entrance to the Cathedral is complimentary if you purchase any ticket to other monuments, and there are no specific time restrictions. However, if you wish to only visit the Cathedral, there are a limited number of free passes available but they can only be obtained from the ticket offices right behind the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

3. The Baptistery of San Giovanni

The Baptistry was constructed in the 12th century as an addition to the city’s impressive cathedral and some of the greatest artists of all time had worked on it. Among them are Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, a father and son duo whose names are etched in the annals of art history as the revolutionary sculptors who paved the way for the Renaissance in sculpture.  

This stunning building boasts a double dome that creates unparalleled acoustics. Be sure to keep an ear out for the melodies sung by the guardians every half hour, perfectly accentuating the sound quality of the building. And if that’s not enough to leave you awe-struck, don’t forget to take in the incredible views of the Cathedral facade from the second-floor window. 

How to visit: Tickets cost 7€ and are valid for one year from the chosen date of purchase. Free admission is available for disabled visitors accompanied by their carer and those under 11 who are accompanied by an adult. Note that certain areas may be closed due to restoration work on the matroneum. In addition, opening hours may vary on Sundays and religious holidays.

4. The Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower is undoubtedly the star attraction of Pisa. Completely made of gleaming white marble, this magnificent structure is an authentic Italian icon. But don’t just breeze through and snap the obligatory cheesy photos holding it up – take the time to learn about its fascinating history and appreciate the ingenuity behind this architectural wonder.

While the architect’s name may remain unknown, one thing is certain – this tower was meant to be a vertical bell tower like any other. However, its distinctive tilt makes it stand out from the rest. The cause of this tilt can be attributed to the weak and shifting soil beneath it. Even during its construction, this bell tower began to show signs of structural failure, causing it to worsen over time.

In 1990, the Leaning Tower was closed to the public to stabilize it. After much effort, it finally reopened to the public in 2001 and today you can climb up the tower’s spiral staircase and enjoy breathtaking views of Pisa and its surroundings.

Inside the shaft of the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Legend has it that Galileo Galilei, the renowned Pisan scientist, conducted his experiments on gravity from the top of the tower to test the relationship between mass and speed. While there’s no concrete evidence to support this tale, it’s still thrilling to imagine one of the world’s most brilliant minds tinkering with physics from up there!

How to visit: The visit typically lasts 30 minutes. Tickets cost 20€ and are only valid for the specified date and time of purchase. It’s best to book them well in advance (up to 20 days out) due to high demand. For safety reasons, children under 8 cannot enter, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Additionally, all handbags, backpacks, and luggage must be left in the cloakroom before the visit. Admission is free for disabled visitors accompanied by their adult carer.

5. Camposanto

But Pisa’s Camposanto is not just a simple burial ground. Its corridors are the repository of great works of art, including sculptures, Roman sarcophagi, and beautiful frescoes depicting the themes of Life and Death created by the talented Florentine artists Buonamico Buffalmacco and Francesco Traini.

Legend has it that the Camposanto was built on sacred soil brought all the way from the Holy Land during the Crusades. Whether or not this is true, there’s no denying the sense of history and reverence surrounding this unique site.   

How to visit: Tickets cost 7€, with free entrance on the 1 and 2 November on the occasion of All Souls and Saints’ days. Free admission is available only for disabled visitors with their carer and for visitors under 11 accompanied by an adult. 

6. The Sinopie Museum 

The Sinopie Museum is a hidden treasure not to be missed when visiting the Campo dei Miracoli complex. It showcases a collection of  sinopie , the preparatory drawings that are traced on the first layer of plaster and represent the first steps in creating a fresco. The name comes from sinoper , the red pigment mixed with water that’s applied by brush.  

The museum is located inside the Spedale Nuovo, a historic pilgrimage hospital dating back to the 13th century. When bombs rained down on the Camposanto, a devastating fire swept through the area, threatening to destroy the priceless frescoes that adorned its walls. To save them, the frescoes were removed from the walls and mounted onto panels. But during this delicate process, the preparatory sketches were revealed, offering a glimpse into the creative process of the artists who had created these masterpieces centuries ago.

How to visit: Tickets cost 7€, with free admission available for disabled visitors accompanied by their carer and for visitors under 11 accompanied by an adult.

7. Opera del Duomo Museum 

Nestled within the walls of a stunning 15th-century convent, the Opera del Duomo Museum in Pisa is a must-see for art and history enthusiasts alike. It showcases a fascinating collection of 380 unique works of art and decorative elements, all sourced from the Cathedral’s treasury and the stunning buildings of Campo dei Miracoli.

Spanning over a thousand years, the collection is a testament to the intricate relationships that have shaped the city’s history with Mediterranean cultures. There’s also a lovely cloister that’s a real oasis of tranquillity. For a truly magical experience, head to the top floor to enjoy a cup of coffee (or some tasty pancakes, in my case) at the panoramic café while taking in an unparalleled view of the iconic Tower of Pisa and Campo dei Miracoli.

8. The Baths of Nero

Pisa, which would later become a renowned maritime republic in the Middle Ages, had a significant Roman presence and was home to several remarkable structures, including a monumental forum, temples, and an amphitheater. Sadly, today only this thermal complex remains visible. This site was excavated in the second half of the 19th century and is one of the few remaining remnants of the city’s Roman past. 

The thermal establishment is named after Emperor Nero due to rumors circulating during the Middle Ages. However, there is no concrete evidence that the Emperor actually visited Pisa or had anything to do with the establishment. Still, the complex has been commonly known as such since then.

How to visit: Currently, it is not possible to enter the site. However, it can be viewed almost completely from outside the fenced area. Keep an eye on the Pisa Tourism website for further updates.

9. Piazza dei Cavalieri 

The square’s centerpiece is the magnificent Palazzo dei Cavalieri, a 16th-century masterpiece that serves as the seat of the prestigious Normale di Pisa University (Italian: Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa), founded by none other than Napoleon Bonaparte. 

Its facade is truly a sight to behold, thanks to the masterful work of artist Vasari who embellished it with allegorical figures, zodiac signs, and the busts of the Grandukes of Tuscany.

Another gem is Palazzo dell’Orologio, which once served as the government headquarters during the medieval era. Its walls bear witness to a heart-wrenching tale that has been immortalized in Dante’s Divine Comedy. It recounts the story of Count Ugolino della Gherardesca, a traitor of the city who was starved to death along with his sons and grandchildren within the walls of this palace.

10. Pizzeria Il Montino

While they offer a daily menu of local specialties, they’re best known for their  cecina  (the region’s famous chickpea flatbread) and pizzas. Though be warned, they’re far from the standard: thick, crispy, and loaded with cheese. One of the most popular is Pizza Pisana, topped with zesty tomato, salty capers, anchovies, and Parmesan, promising an explosion of flavor.

How to visit: Il Montino is located on Via del Monte 1 and is open every day except Sundays. They serve lunch from 12:30pm to 3:30pm and dinner from 7pm to 10:30pm.

11. Church of Santa Maria della Spina 

The building’s exterior is divided into two perfectly symmetrical parts, adorned with delicate spirals, intricate rose windows, elegant marble inlays, grand pinnacles, and magnificent statues – all meticulously crafted to embody the essence of Gothic architecture. In contrast, the interior is a masterful showcase of simplicity and elegance, preserving one of the finest examples of Gothic sculpture: the Madonna of the Rose by Andrea and Nino Pisano.

How to visit: the Church is located at Lungarno Gambacorti 5 and is open for free visits on the following days and times: Mondays (10am to 1pm), Tuesdays to Thursdays (3pm to 7pm) and Fridays to Sundays (10am to 1pm and 3pm to 7pm).

12. La Bottega del Gelato 

La Bottega del Gelato  has been serving artisanal gelato since 1979 when it opened its first location near the river bank. Their gelato is renowned for being completely handmade using high-quality ingredients, such as Sicilian lemons, Cantiano cherries, and Sorrento walnuts. The range of flavors is ample and varied, including classics like cream and chocolate as well as inventive variations like ricotta cheese with figs and walnuts and bitter orange with cinnamon.

How to visit: La Bottega del Gelato is in Piazza Garibaldi and is open every day from 11am to 1am.

13. Piazza delle Vettovaglie

During the day, this square is filled with colorful stalls selling fresh produce. But as the sun sets, it transforms into a lively hangout spot with cozy bars and eateries sprawling onto the open space. A favorite among locals and visitors is Cecco Rivolta, a winery serving excellent Tuscan wine paired with platters of cold cuts and cheeses.

Artwork by local artists on Vicolo del Vigna

14. Keith Haring’s mural

This mural came to life through a chance encounter between the artist and a Pisan student on holiday in New York. The two struck up a friendship, and the Italian convinced the artist to come to Italy to create a work outdoors that would be accessible to everyone. 

The mural, considered Haring’s artistic testament, expresses his vision of life as a puzzle of colorful figures, each representing a unique aspect of a peaceful world.

How to visit: You’ll find Haring’s mural in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II.

If you have more time in Pisa…

15. palazzo blu  .

The palace boasts a permanent collection of paintings from the 14th to the 18th century, plus a photographic archive documenting life in Pisa during the second half of the 20th century. It also hosts cultural activities and temporary exhibits, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the arts.

How to visit: Palazzo Blu is located on Lungarno Gambacorti 32 and is open from Monday to Friday, 10am to 7pm, and from Saturday to Sunday, 10am to 8pm. The entrance fee is €3 and includes access to the temporary exhibitions.

16. University of Pisa Botanical Gardens 

Among the city’s stunning architecture and artistic treasures lies an oasis of natural beauty that’s just as fascinating as the other more famous things to do in Pisa: the Botanical Gardens of Pisa University . Established in 1543, they are the first university gardens in the world and boast an impressive collection of flora from across the globe. 

There is also a Botanical Museum, which Ferdinando I de ‘Medici created to complement the gardens. It showcases portraits of famous botanists, ancient teaching material, and a multimedia station where you can take a virtual tour of the herbarium, whose exclusive collection is typically only accessible to scholars by appointment.

How to visit: The Botanical Gardens are located in Via Luca Ghini 13, near Piazza dei Cavalieri, and are open throughout the year starting from 8:30 am. Closing times may vary depending on the season. Admission tickets are priced at €4, and family tickets are also available for €8.

17. The walkway of the Pisa’s ancient walls

At a towering height of 11 meters, the  walkway along Pisa’s ancient walls  offers a unique perspective to take in the city’s sights. These walls are not only among Italy’s oldest but also some of the best-preserved medieval walls in all of Europe.

The walls’ construction, which began in 1154, followed the natural elements present, making it an architectural wonder that blends harmoniously with its surroundings. After years of restoration, you can now take a leisurely walk along the trail of the Walls and immerse yourself in the panoramic view of the city. 

How to visit:  Opening times vary depending on the time of year; in high season, they are open every day from 10am to 8pm. Admission tickets are priced at €5, and there are four access points, three of which are accessible to disabled individuals. Check the website for complete details.

18. The Museum of Ancient Boats (Museo delle Navi Antiche di Pisa)

Pisa has a long history as a maritime superpower, and the  Museum of Ancient Boats provides an in-depth account of a millennium of trade, seafaring, and navigation. Housed within the Medicean Arsenals on the Pisan Lungarno, this museum is considered the largest of its kind and is the result of 20 years of extensive research and investigation. Its collection of ancient boats and artifacts showcases the city’s maritime heritage and its role in shaping the Mediterranean’s cultural and commercial exchange.

There are 8 thematic areas to explore, which host seven boats from the roman age, datable between the 3rd and the 7th century A.D., of which four are essentially intact. Also exhibited are 800 finds, including maps and personal belongings that narrate daily life aboard for both the mariners and the passengers.

How to visit: The exhibition is open on Fridays from 3:30pm to 6:30 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10.30am to 6.30pm (until 8:30pm between June and September). Tickets cost €10.

19. Osteria dei Cavalieri

If you have time for dinner, then Osteria dei Cavalieri is one of the best restaurants in Pisa for savoring some delicious local cuisine before ending your trip. Just a short walk away from Campo dei Miracoli, this restaurant is housed in a historic building dating from the 1200s, with bottles of wine all over and classic tablecloths that exude a slightly old-fashioned charm. 

Dishes here are deeply rooted in tradition, offering a variety of delicious options like ravioli filled with flavorful pecorino cheese, grilled T-bone steaks, ossobuco with beans, and ribollita soup. They also have an extensive wine selection featuring both classic and new labels.

How to visit: Osteria dei Cavalieri is located on Via San Frediano, near Piazza Dei Cavalieri. They are open for lunch (12 pm to 2:15 pm) and dinner (7:45 pm to 10:30 pm) but closed on Sundays and for lunch on Wednesdays.

Recommended Itinerary: Pisa day trip from Florence

If you arrive at Pisa Centrale station, you can begin by walking to the Church of Sant’Antonio Abate to see Keith Haring’s iconic mural. Its bright, vivid colors are sure to brighten up your day! 

Next, cross the river and head to Piazza delle Vettovaglie to experience the bustling market, where locals shop for fresh produce. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells of this vibrant space, and maybe even indulge in some tasty treats along the way. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around Borgo Stretto, one of the city’s main streets, boasting a beautiful portico arcade home to elegant shops and cafes. 

Take some time to explore the picturesque Arno riverfront, framed by charming landmarks like the tiny Church of Santa Maria della Spina. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a cone of mouth-watering gelato from La Bottega del Gelato while you’re there. Then, as lunchtime approaches, head to Il Montino and fuel up with a delicious Pizza Pisana before continuing your exploration of Pisa.  

Check out the ancient Baths of Nero, a fascinating testament to the city’s Roman past, before immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Campo dei Miracoli, where you can spend the rest of your day discovering the many treasures this stunning location has to offer. 

With your timed ticket, you can quickly access the Leaning Tower and climb up its spiral staircase for some beautiful views over the city. Next, stop for the mandatory photo ops before exploring all the other gems in the square. 

End your day with a refreshing drink or some delicious pancakes at the panoramic café in the Opera del Duomo Museum. The view is fantastic, and the food is sure to satisfy your cravings. As the day comes to a close, hop in a taxi or stroll back to the train station.

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Pisa, facts and travel tips

Pisa is a city with an aristocratic air and rich in charm, which thanks to its proximity to the sea emits a particular light. Without a doubt, its most famous attraction is the leaning tower, yet beyond Piazza dei Miracoli, the city reserves incredible surprises. Pisa is so ancient that it doesn't have a birth date, but it has been connected to water since its origins. It was founded in one of the great inlets of the Arno River , but it was mainly the sea that marked its destiny, and over the centuries it became a great Maritime Republic and an invincible naval power. The Pisans were so rich and ingenious that they took the most beautiful things from the Mediterranean, and the city became a fundamental capital for culture and gave birth to illustrious personalities of every era such as Galileo or the famous mathematician Leonardo Fibonacci.

Today, the nightlife is boosted by a centuries-old elite university , shopping opportunities range from flea markets to fashionable boutiques while city streets and piazzas are lined with fine examples of medieval, Gothic and Renaissance architecture .

Pisa travel tips

• Pisa travel guide for first-time visitors
• Top 20 things to do in Pisa
• 10 facts you didn't know about the Leaning Tower of Pisa

What are the best things to do in Pisa?

Pisa came to importance under the Romans and went on to flourish as a commercial port for many centuries . By the 10th-century it had become an independent and formidable maritime state and a significant rival to Venice and Genoa .

Two centuries later, Pisa controlled the Tuscan coast, Sardinia, and Corsica while its intrepid sailors brought back spices and exotic goods along with new ideas and inventions. The city's surviving Romanesque architecture stems from this period of glory with much of the sculptural work crafted by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, a talented father-and-son team.

The medieval heart of Pisa can be discovered north of the river and is an enchanting maze of lanes and alleys. These stretch from the bars and ice-cream parlors of the Piazza Cairoli to the daily market that overflows from the Piazza delle Vettovaglie .

Pisa fell to Florence and the Medicis in the early 15th-century when the period of Renaissance building began and the university was revitalized. It was here that Pisa's most famous son, Galileo Galilei became a professor of astronomy.

Piazza dei Miracoli is a central tourist hub and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Not only is it home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa but also to the city's Duomo , Baptistry , and Campanile as well as the Ospedale Nuovo di Santo Spirito .

Once away from this bustling piazza, visitors can enjoy the colorful palaces and aristocratic homes that line the south bank of the River Arno or step into the Corso Italia for a spot of high-end shopping. Art lovers can indulge themselves in the Museo delle Sinopie or the Museo di San Matteo .

If lucky enough to be spending a few days in Pisa, visitors should save their tour of the Piazza dei Miracoli and the Leaning Tower until later in the day. The crowds have gone, the queues have disappeared, and during the late opening periods of the summer months, night adds a special enchantment to the white stone monuments.

For al fresco summer evenings, join the locals in the Piazza delle Vettovaglie or the Piazza Dante Alighieri where they will be enjoying the subtle flavors of local Pisan wines such as a Chianti delle Colline or a Bianco Pisano di San Torpe .

What is the best time of year to visit Pisa?

Several annual festivals and celebrations are held in June , so it is advisable to make travel arrangements and book accommodation well in advance.

The Luminara Festival takes place on June 16th. After sunset, the city lights are dimmed along the river bank, and over 10,000 candles are lit. Celebrations end with a big fireworks display.

The Regata of San Ranieri takes place on June 17th which is the Festival of San Ranieri , the city's patron saint.

The last Sunday in June sees the Game of Bridge . This has its roots deep in history and involves two determined teams trying to take control of the Arno's main bridge, the Ponte di Mezzo . Beginning with a colorful parade of locals dressed in 16th-century Spanish costumes, the battle continues through the night.

It is also worth visiting Pisa in December to take advantage of the Christmas market held in the city center while in May a Flower Festival takes place at Le Piagge.

What is the weather and climate like in Pisa?

With its subtropical Mediterranean climate , visiting Pisa is pleasant at any time of the year. Winter temperatures generally remain well above freezing while during spring and autumn they hover in the late teens.

The hottest months are July and August when temperatures can peak at 29.5°C (85.1°F). Although rainfall is heaviest in the autumn , showers are likely all year round.

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Pisa travel guide — the fullest pisa tourist guide & pisa travel blog for first-timers.

Pisa is one of Italy’s most famous tourist cities. The Leaning Tower of Pisa located in the city of Pisa, Tuscany Region, Italy is a tourist attraction that attracts millions of visitors every year. Travelers usually only come to Pisa to visit this symbol leaning tower and take pictures and then leaving. However, Pisa has much more interesting things than that. The Pisa travel guide is shared below will help visitors gather enough tourist information to have a great budget trip in Pisa in general and the leaning tower of Pisa in particular. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Pisa for the first-time? Let’s check out our Pisa travel blog with the fullest Pisa travel guide (Pisa Italy travel guide, Pisa tourist guide, Pisa guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do… as well as suggested Pisa itinerary for 1 day to find out the answer!

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Pisa travel guide: Overview of Pisa

This beautiful city of Pisa is located in the province of Pisa, in the Italian region of Tuscany. The city is located on the banks of the Arno River just before it empties into the Ligurian Sea. The city of Pisa was once a Roman port. At the beginning of the 15th century, Pisa was occupied by the Florence people, so this place was strongly influenced by the Renaissance art and culture which was originated from Florence. The city was heavily damaged during World War II with more than 53 times of bombing. More than half of the area of ​​downtown Pisa was completely destroyed, but with the spirit of perseverance, the people rebuilt the city just a few decades later.

The city of Pisa was a navy base and an important trading port in many centuries ago. Its heyday was around the 10th century when it was a maritime region, considered one of the four mainly maritime states in history of Italy.

Pisa travel guide: When should I visit Pisa?

Depending on the characteristics of each season, the leaning tower will give you different feelings and scenes. From March to June, the weather is very pleasant and cool. This is the best time to visit Pisa and admire the tower at its most beautiful angles.

From June to September the temperature will be higher. The weather will be hot and dry, but there are many other outdoor activities that you could take part in.

From September to December, the temperature drops to low when autumn comes. At this time, the scene will be changed in color, creating a very poetic scene.

From about December to March next year is winter. The scenery will be covered in white snow. This is also a good time you should come and see the famous leaning tower of Pisa.

Pisa Italy travel guide: Is Pisa safe to travel?

Pisa is quite safe to travel as well as visit. However, the biggest problem for tourists when visiting this area is pickpocketing and petty theft. Pickpocketing happens every day here, especially around the leaning tower of Pisa. Documents related to money, passports, airline tickets should have copies and be kept carefully.

Pisa travel guide: How to get to Pisa?

Because it is a popular tourist destination, there are many ways to get to Pisa.

Pisa International Airport, also known as Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA) , which connects flights to and from Pisa. Visitors usually do not visit Pisa first during their visits in Italy but will visit somewhere such as Rome, Florence, Positano, Cinque Terre and then get to Pisa later (usually Florence because of the close distance), so visitors often take domestic flights within Italy.

There are two main stations in Pisa: San Rossore Station and Pisa Central Station (Pisa Centrale railway station). Trains to Pisa depart from Florence, Rome, Genoa, etc., very convenient for tourists to travel.

The city of Florence is about 82km from Pisa. So you can travel by train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella railway station in 1 hour for a fare of 16 euros. Then you can reach the leaning tower by taxi, bus, horse-drawn carriage or walking depending on your budget.

If you depart from Cinque Terre, take the train from La Spezia Centrale Station to Pisa Centrale station for 1 hour of riding, then buy a bus ticket to the Pisa or Torre area.

You can buy online tickets at the homepage of Trenitalia – the largest train liner in Italy. I found that if traveling time less 1 hour, the ticket price is not much different than buying online early. So if you getting from Florence to Pisa or from Cinque Terre to Pisa, you can buy tickets at the Trenitalia’s ticket vending machines or buy at the ticket offices at the stations for convenience, without having to buy online in advance.

Getting from railway stations to the Leaning Tower of Pisa

You find Stazione 1 station and stop at Torre 1 station, then getting to the leaning tower of Pisa by bus. Bus ticket price is €1.5 and it takes about 10 minutes. Tickets are purchased at the small grocery store located in the station near the entrance. Exit the station gate and you will immediately see the bus stops. If you want to take a taxi, it only takes about 5 minutes and costs about €10-13. It takes about 25 minutes on foot to get there.

Note: The above bus ticket is valid for 75 minutes. If you come to Pisa with main purpose to take check-in photos of the Leaning Tower and not buy tickets to visit inside, you can use this ticket for the return trip. In fact, the day I went, I saw many tourists get on the bus from this bus stop to return to the railway station, so the bus driver could not control it. Whether if you have a ticket or not, no one knows because it’s too crowded.

Most visitors choose to walk from the station to the leaning tower in about 25 minutes. On the way you will also discover famous places such as Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, Viale Antonio Gramsci Street and Ponte Solferino bridge.

There are many bus routes connecting major cities in Italy with Pisa. Currently, there are three main bus liners including Autolinee Lazzi, CPT (Compagnia Pisana Trasporti), CLAP. Pisa’s main bus station is located in the area of ​​Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II.

Visitors can also rent a self-driving car to travel to Pisa or buy a day tour to get to Pisa from Florence or Cinque Terre. See more here .

• Pisa Half Day Tour from Florence

Pisa travel blog: Transportation in Pisa

Pisa is a small city, so the distance between the main attractions here is quite short, visitors can choose the means of transportation here as follows:

• Bus: Small buses operating in Pisa can help visitors traveling around Pisa easily and economically. Buy tickets right on the bus.
• Taxi: Taxis in Italy are not cheap at all and neither is Pisa. If not needed, you might not to take it.
• Bicycles: Some hotels in Pisa offer bicycle rentals. There is also a bike rental service called Cicopli in Pisa (like those in Taiwan or China).
• On foot: As shared above, Pisa is a rather small city, the distance between attractions is not far, so walking is the most economical and also the simplest way.

Pisa tourist guide: Where to go and what to do?

In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa has many other great places to explore and take pictures. The most prominent ones are the four religious buildings at the Duomo Square (Cathedral Square or Piazza dei Miracoli, Square of Miracles). These monumental and massive structures include the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Baptistery of Pisa, the Cathedral of Pisa, and the Campo Santo (Monumental Cemetery)… Visiting here you will get an unforgettable historical experience. Don’t come just because of the leaning tower of Pisa but forget these surrounding historic structures.

• Pisa Cathedral Guided Tour with Leaning Tower Admission Ticket

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Leaning Tower of Pisa is the symbol and also the most attractive attraction in Pisa. The Leaning Tower of Pisa was originally the bell tower of the church, built in 1173. This work was built in 2 centuries and completed in 1372. Due to errors in the design and construction process, the 8-storey tower is leaned at an angle of 5.5 degrees. It accidentally forms the highlight of this architectural work. Not only considered a symbol of Italy, the leaning tower of Pisa is also recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

• Pisa Tour with Wine Tasting Experience and Leaning Tower Skip the Line Ticket

The tower is 55.86m high, including 8 floors connected by round pillars made of white marble. On the 1st floor, there are many sculptural decorations and the 8th floor is designed as the top of the bell. The tower body is gradually reduced, the foot is 19.6m in diameter and the top is 12.7m.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa still stands with at an incredible leaning angle of 5.5 degrees. Before being restored at the end of the 20th century, the leaning angle of the tower was almost twice this number. Although the foundation is quite soft, the tower is still standing, so you can rest assured to climb the steps to its top to have a panoramic view of this beautiful city of Pisa.

• Leaning Tower of Pisa Skip-the-Line Ticket

You should leave bulky luggage at the entrance because the stairs are very narrow. Ticket price is €18 to climb to the top of the tower, online skip the line ticket is €28. Very long queue, taking photos also has to queue, so climbing to the top is no exception. If you want to take photos with less people in background, you should not take a photo right at the entrance gate, but take a walk around to the opposite side, there will be less people.

Buy a Pisa skip the line ticket online for only €20 here .

Camposanto Monumentale di Pisa (Monumental Cemetery of Pisa)

The Camposanto Cemetery was begun in 1278 and was only completed in 1464. Therefore, it’s the youngest of the four structures located on the Duomo square, although the 84 Roman sarcophagi here date from the 3rd century. Although it is a cemetery, I feel it’s like a historical architecture.

Although this place was massively damaged in the American bombing raid in 1944. The famous mural and fresco masterpieces were all restored after World War II. You should not miss this place when coming to Pisa.

Among the most famous tombs here, the most famous one is the tomb of the great mathematician Fibonacci. More or less, it is clear that the Fibonacci sequence – this classic series of numbers in mathematics has been a name attached to our school days for a long time, isn’t it? Today this sequence of numbers is one of the most amazing mathematical proofs applied in many fields such as art, biology, architecture, music and even finance, securities, forex. The Camposanto Cemetery will easily retain visitors by its quiet and tranquil.

Cathedral of Pisa

The focal point of Pisa’s Miracoli Square is the Cathedral of Pisa (Duomo di Pisa) along with the Leaning Tower of Pisa are among the most photographed structures in Italy. The church was designed by the Italian Architect Buscheto and in his honor after his death his body was buried in the false arch of the marble façade.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the most recognizable and most famous building in the central square of the Duomo. However, Cathedral of Pisa is the largest structure here. The Cathedral of Pisa is impressive by its elegant multi-storey façade and elaborately decorated interior with splendid mosaics.

The Pisa Baptistery of St. John

The last building of the four most famous architectural works is the Baptistery of Pisa. This is considered a masterpiece of Roman Catholic architecture. Construction began in the 12th century and took two centuries to complete. Because it was built on the same ground as the leaning tower of Pisa, this church is also slightly leaned. The massive building is now the largest baptistery in Italy and also the most important religious building of the city.

• Baptistery, Sinopie Museum, Cathedral, and Monumental Cemetery Ticket in Pisa

Book tickets online to access the baptistery of Pisa, the museum, the memorial cemetery and the cathedral of Pisa for only €9 here .

You should buy tickets online in advance and this ticket is also skip the line ticket to avoid long queues. These places are as crowded as the leaning tower of Pisa, but the combo to access all places is only €9, so I find it very cheap.

Museo di San Matteo

The next place you should visit is the Museo di San Matteo museum. There are many famous works of art on display and regularly exhibitions of Tuscan Renaissance art are held for visitors.

Address: Piazza San Matteo In Soarta, 1, 56127 Pisa PI, Italy Hours: 8:30AM–7PM/Monday: Closed

Orto e Museo Botanico Botanical Garden

This is the first botanical garden in Europe, founded in 1544 by the famous botanist Luca Ghini. It consists of many areas including: gardens, ponds, greenhouses,…

Address: Via Luca Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy (Other address: Via Roma 54, Pisa) Opening hours: 9AM-5PM (October 1 to March 31) / 8:30AM-8PM (April 1 to September 30) Website: www.sma.unipi.it/it/orto-e-museo-botanico

Knights’ Square (Piazza dei Cavalieri)

Considered the center of the city of Pisa. Standing at the square, visitors will easily see the beautiful Palace of della Carovana and the church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri.

Address: P.za dei Cavalieri, 1, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy Opening hours: 24/24

Palazzo Blu Museum

It’s a place to store works of art. Palazzo Blu is a small palace built in the 14th century, now converted into a museum. It houses works of art by Italian artists. It is also home to regular art exhibitions.

Address: Lungarno Gambacorti, 9, 56125 Pisa PI, Italy Hours: 10AM–8PM Website: palazzoblu.it

Church of Santa Maria della Spina

The Church of the Virgin Mary Santa Maria della Spina was built in the 14th century in the Pisan Gothic style. This is a small church, located on the bank of Arno River, but with unique architecture and historical significance, this is a tourist attraction.

Address: Lungarno Gambacorti, 56125 Pisa PI, Italy Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 10am to 6pm (lunch break 1:30pm – 2:30pm)/ Saturday, Sunday: 10am to 7pm (lunch break 1:30pm – 2:30pm)

Lungarnos is an area that runs along the Arno River in Pisa. Walking along here, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the peace of Pisa, looking the beautiful palaces, romantic bridges, …

Address: River Arno, Pisa

Pisan Hills

It is not located in Pisa but not far from Pisa. This is the famous wine route of Tuscany. Visitors can rent a vespa to run along this road, seeing the vineyards and can stop anywhere they want. Enjoying the local food and wine is a very poetic experience.

Address: Chianti, Tuscany Website: www.stradadelvinocollinepisane.it

Take a day trip to Lucca

Lucca is a beautiful little city, just 25 minutes by train from the leaning tower of Pisa. Walk or cycling along the roads, explore the Medieval and Renaissance buildings in the center and breathe in the atmosphere of the city are best things to do here.

Pisa Italy travel guide: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to..

• Bologna Hotel Pisa ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel San Ranieri ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• NH Pisa ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Alessandro della Spina ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Affittacamere Delfo ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Pisa Tower ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top rated and best Pisa hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Pisa travel guide: What and where to eat in Pisa?

Cafes and restaurants around the leaning tower of Pisa are very rich and diverse. I think the food prices here are pretty good. A meal costs around €8-15. View overlooking the square and leaning tower of Pisa.

Below are some good cafes and restaurants you can drop by to try:

• Oro Gelateria : Super delicious gelato (ice-cream). The best one you can find in Pisa.
• Osteria La Mescita Pisa : The best for wine tasting and delectable food.
• Gusto Giusto : Listen the suggestions from the restaurant owner Gianni for your meal.

Pisa tourist guide: Suggested itinerary to visit Pisa in 1 day

• 8AM – 9:30AM: Breakfast, then getting to Pisa.
• 9:30AM – 10:30PM: Visit the leaning tower of Pisa

It is one of the main sightseeing spots in the Duomo square (Piazza del Duomo), and is the most attractive attraction. If you intend to climb the tower, you need to buy tickets in advance because the number of tickets to access the top of the tower are limited each day.

• 10:30AM – 11PM: Visit the baptistery (Pisa Baptistery)
• 11AM – 11:30AM: Visit Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Pisa)
• 11:30AM – 12AM: Visit Camposanto Cemetery
• 12PM – 2PM: Have lunch, resting
• 2PM – 2:30PM: Visit Knights Square (Piazza dei Cavalieri) in the center of Pisa city.
• 2:30PM – 3PM: Stop by Gelateria L’Angolo d’Oro to enjoy its famous ice cream.
• 3PM – 4PM: Visit Palazzo Blu – formerly a palace, now a museum.
• 4:10PM – 4:20PM: Visit the Church of Santa Maria della Spina
• 16:30PM: Visit and shop at Corso Italia Street
• 5PM: Return to the departure point (station) or move to the next destination or return to the hotel.

Pisa travel blog: Before you go

• To visit and take pictures comfortably you have to spend 18 euros.
• It is not recommended to visit Pisa in summer.
• You only can visit the inside of the leaning tower within 30 minutes.
• The number of people specified for a visit is 30 people.
• Children under 8 years old are not allowed inside.
• Children 8 to 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
• When entering the tower to visit, only cameras and camcorders are allowed.
• If you do not intend to go inside the buildings, it only takes about 2-3 hours is enough for a visit. However, if you want to go inside, you have to queue for a long time. One day is not sure to visit all of 4 spots.
• Beware of pickpockets in Pisa.
• Pisa station is a transit hub for many other Italian cities, so it’s very crowded. You should be careful when taking the train here.
• Souvenirs here are also cheap compared to other Italian tourist cities like Florence or Milan. So if you intend to buy souvenirs in Italy, you should buy them here.

Pisa travel guide: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Pisa you can refer to

• Florence and Pisa Day Tour from Rome
• Pisa and Cinque Terre Guided Day Trip from Florence or Pisa
• Private Day Tour of Siena, San Gimignano and Pisa (from Florence)

Are you looking for more top things to do in Pisa: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Italy travel guide here .

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How To Spend A Perfect Day In Pisa, Italy

• Destinations

Pisa is pretty much on everybody’s to-do list when visiting Italy. Not only does it lie within beautiful Tuscany, an easy drive from Florence, Siena, Lucca, and the Ligurian Sea, it also has that world-famous leaning tower that so invites tourists to pose for silly pictures.

But that is mostly it, or so people think. Travelers come to see the tower, pour en-masse out of coaches and cars, head straight to it, and then turn around and leave again, completely ignoring the rest of Pisa.

The city of Pisa has been inhabited for well over 2,000 years (by the Ligurians before it became a Roman colony), and it is bursting with history and charm. To just see the tower means missing out on a lovely Tuscan city that can occupy visitors for a day or two, easily.

Leaning Tower Of Pisa

Let’s get that tower out of the way first. The Leaning Tower of Pisa has been leaning from the start. The foundations of the tower were laid in 1173, but due to regional battles and politics, it was not completed until 1372. It has been leaning ever since due to the soft ground underneath, and several attempts at righting it have failed. But that is just as well, as its tilt adds that certain charm. Even though it may not look like it, the tower is in fact the bell tower of the cathedral next to it, and, if you wish, you can climb the 297 steps up to view the bells, silenced for more than a century in response to fears that their vibrations will tilt the tower further.

Editor’s Note: For more on why you should go to the Leaning Tower, consider TravelAwaits contributor Peggy Cleveland’s “My Biggest Travel Regret: Not Climbing The Tower Of Pisa.”

Pisa Cathedral

The second must-see sight on the Campo dei Miracoli, the Place of Miracles, is the cathedral, the Duomo de Pisa, whose bell tower is the Tower of Pisa. Consecrated on 26 September 1118, it is a truly magnificent building inside and out. The striped and columned facade is set off with rich decor inside. More columns, a high, golden wood ceiling, and plenty of golden decor and paintings make this just beautiful. The intricate marble pulpit by sculptor Giovanni Pisano is an absolute highlight.

John M Anderson / Shutterstock

The third structure on the field of miracles is the Baptistery , the round, domed structure next to the cathedral. I have to confess that this is my personal favorite structure on the square. With the complicated decor on the outside, it looks like someone went completely overboard with the decorations, but the intricate marble carvings are just lovely. Inside, the tall circular space with its columns, the marble floor, and the views from the upper story are simple but stunning.

The Camposanto, the Holy Field, is a rather unusual cemetery that rounds off the foursome that is the Campo dei Miracoli. This, the largest building of the lot, was built in 1277 to “tidy up” the graves associated with the cathedral. A rectangular construction with columns and shaded walkways akin to a cloistered courtyard, this is a serene space that is a must-see while you’re there.

Pro Tip: When it comes to tickets , you can choose how many monuments you would like to visit and pay accordingly. If you opt for all, you also get access to the Sinopie Museum and the Opera del Duomo Museum.

MeloDPhoto / Shutterstock

Palazzo Blu

When leaving the Field of Miracles, walk past the Piazza Dei Cavalieri with its Renaissance buildings and statue of Cosimo I of Medici, Tuscany’s first Grand Duke, across the Ponte di Mezzo spanning the Arno river to Palazzo Blu . This beautiful medieval building, painted blue as the name suggests, hosts regular, temporary art exhibitions and cultural events, so it pays to check what exhibition will be on when you are visiting before booking a ticket.

You will have already glimpsed the river when crossing the bridge, and no doubt have been tempted to stroll its banks lined with burnt orange and terracotta-painted buildings. If you walk upstream (inland), before long, in roughly a mile, you will have reached the edge of Pisa, walking toward green fields and Pisa’s second leaning tower. The bell tower of the San Michele Degli Scalzi church, built between 1152 and 1171, leans at an alarming 5-degree angle, which is a steeper angle than that of the more famous bell tower on the Field of Miracles.

Pro Tip : You will be ready for a well-deserved rest now, so stop at the lovely bookstore-cum-cafe Caffe Letterario Volta Pagina for a coffee and a book.

Borgo Stretto And Corso Italia

Borgo Stretto and the Corso Italia are the main shopping drags in Pisa and offer stores for everything from high street brands to luxury labels. Stretching on both sides of the Arno connected by the Ponte di Mezzo, they are both pedestrianized narrow paths dedicated to shopping. Unfolding between lovely old buildings, lanes to either side open to little squares and courtyards, and even narrower lanes are full of the oh-so-cliched wash hanging between buildings, plus plenty of little cafes and restaurants. Don’t just shop, but stroll, and veer off to the sides occasionally as you go.

mjols84 / Shutterstock

Piazza Delle Vettovaglie

The Piazza delle Vettovaglie, literally the Supply Square, was built during the Medici rule in the 16th century and has held a market of some description ever since. The Vettovaglie’s fresh produce market is open every day except Sundays between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., spilling over from the market square under the yellow arches and into the neighboring lanes. Fresh fruit and vegetables from the region are sold side by side with local specialties, from salamis to hams, cheeses, wine, olives, and pastas. The yellow arches house a number of small cafes and bars which make it a perfect stop any time of the day, with the choice of drink you’ll have in front of you changing according to the angle of the sun and the type of nibbles you bought at the market.

Pro Tip : There are the cuisines of Italy and Tuscany, but also the more local specialties of Pisa to discover, and that is best done on a food tour with someone local leading you through narrow lanes and into restaurants you would not have found on your own. Learn and eat as you go.

National Museum Of San Matteo

Head back to the other side of the Arno via the Giardino Scotto , formerly Cittadella Nuova, a lovely park set within the old remains of a fortress dating to the mid-1400s. Cross the Arno via Ponte della Fortezza and head to the National Museum of San Matteo . This museum is a treasure trove of medieval art, religious and otherwise, paintings, sculptures, religious artifacts, even a display of the evolution of the crucifix, all in a beautiful old setting.

After mostly religious displays, you might want to add a scientific point of view or two, in which case the nearby Museum of Human Anatomy , with a vast number of anatomical specimens brought together from across Italy and further away, and the Pathological Anatomy Museum next door might interest you.

Verdi Theatre

If you decide to stay the night or spend at least the evening in Pisa, the Verdi Theatre would be a lovely spot to end your day. This is a beautiful theater offering regular concerts, plays, and opera performances right in the old town.

For fans of Puccini in particular, the annual Puccini Festival just a few miles outside of Pisa on a stage in the lake Lago di Massaciuccoli is a must-attend. The huge purpose-built open-air stage set up by the lake with the water and the Apuan Alps in the background attracts top productions and artists every year.

Gaspar Janos / Shutterstock

Tuscany: The Province Of Pisa And Beyond

When coming to Pisa, do plan a few side trips or stops along the route of your Tuscan trip. The ancient city of Lucca is merely 13 miles from Pisa and offers not only medieval walls; a cathedral eerily similar to the Cathedral of Pisa; the wonderful Torre Guinigi with trees growing on the top, and the amazing Piazza dell’ Anfiteatro, an oval square built according to the ruins of a Roman amphitheater.

Or head to the pretty coastal town of Livorno, 15 miles from Pisa, with its tempting ferry connections to Corsica , France.

Whether you choose to spend one day or two in Pisa, however pressed for time you might be, please do not “just” come to Pisa. This region of Italy offers something spectacular at every corner. There is so much history and beauty in both the communities as well as the countryside of Tuscany, that it demands a serious chunk of your time. This is the place in the world to take your time, veer off course, explore, and most of all, take it easy and smell the pizza and the wine along the way.

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

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15 Fun Things to Do in Pisa, Italy

Home » Blog » Europe » Italy » 15 Fun Things to Do in Pisa, Italy

Vastly outshined by its tilted spectacle, Pisa is a city with unsuspecting allure, history, and charm that’s often overlooked. This guide covers all the things best to do in Pisa both before or after visiting the iconic leaning tower.

Situated proudly in the heart of Tuscany , Pisa is one of the most significant and influential cities within one of Italy’s most sought-after regions.

Most tourists only consider passing through on a day trip to snap a few photos and make their way to the next destination. However, there is so much more to this charming Tuscan hub than its namesake leaning tower. 

In this guide, I’ve rounded up the top things to do in Pisa, so you can explore more and experience the vibrancy of this unseen city. 

I’ve also included tips for your visit, where to stay, where to eat, and more essential info for your trip to make your time in Pisa extra worthwhile.

Pisa Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Pisa, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

• Is Pisa worth visiting?
• How many days do you need?
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• How to get around
• Tips for visiting
• Where to eat
• Where to stay
• What to pack

Top things to do in Pisa

If you have limited time and are looking for the very best things to do in Pisa, here are our top recommendations: 

• Take a free walking tour
• See the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Explore the Square of Miracles
• Take a food tour
• Go shopping in the Borgo Stretto district

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Pisa. 

1. Take a free walking tour

The worn, cracked, and unmanicured facades of Pisa are often overlooked, but if you venture past the pristine grass of the Square of Miracles, the city limits can be quite the charmer. 

On a free walking tour , you will discover Pisa beyond the lean with a local to truly appreciate it. Soak in the history, myths, and culture as you wander both famed and offbeat sites.

What you need to know:

• Hours: 2 hours
• Price: Free, with your choice of tip contribution
• Location  

What guests are saying

“Alberto is AMAZING! He’s one of the best guides we have ever had. He is knowledgeable and a great storyteller. He covered history, art, myths, as well as gave us great tips on local food and culture. […] I highly recommend taking the tour with him.” – Prathyusha, United Kingdom (May 2023)

2. See the Leaning tower of Pisa

What began as an architectural mistake over 800 years ago has transformed into one of the most famous landmarks in Italy .

On any visit to Pisa, travelers flock to the Square of Miracles to experience the gravity-defying construction of the Pisa Tower, famously called the “ Leaning Tower of Pisa ”.

Most often it’s experienced by snapping requisite photos in a few fashions, mainly holding the tower up or pushing it over. 

But for some euros, you can take your visit a step further (or up in this case) to the top of the tower to truly appreciate its remarkable construction and take in the views over Pisa.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Entrance fee: €27 ($29.30 USD) *includes entrance to all buildings in the Square of Miracles & timed Pisa Tower ticket.

Why is the Leaning Tower of Pisa still leaning?

It’s a wonder how, despite leaning for centuries, the Pisa Tower is still standing.

The soil the tower was built on is what caused it to sink and lean in the first place. Ironically, that same soil is now protecting the tower from fatal seismic events across time. 

Most attributed to its preserved lean is the restoration work that started in 1990. At the time, the tower was closed due to high risk for falling from its whooping 5.5-degree tilt (the maximum it was estimated to tolerate was 5.44).

The restoration work brought the tower up by a degree and gave it more stability. With more effort, they very well could have situated the tower vertically, but in doing so it would erase the allure of one of Italy’s most famous sites. And probably cause a massive identity crisis.

3. Visit the Pisa Cathedral

Built in 1092, the Pisa Cathedral is an ancient marvel whose interior is just as magnificent once you step inside.

Its facade is lined with black and white marble striping, ancient Roman columns, and artwork with a variety of religious scenes. The most impressive antiquity, though, is the Gothic pulpit carved by Giovani Pisano in the 14th-century.

Everywhere you look inside is filled with intricate details, so taking your time walking through here is crucial to really appreciate all the Romanesque details.

Hours: Monday – Saturday (10 a.m. to 8 p.m.); Sunday (1 p.m. to 8 p.m.)

Entrance fee: €15 *includes entrance to all buildings in the Square of Miracles except the Pisa Tower. 

4. Discover the Baptisterium (the Baptistry)

The Battistero di San Giovanni was built in 1152 and still stands as the largest baptistry in Italy. This very site is also where Galileo Galiei was baptized in 1564.

Stepping inside from its intricate exterior, you’ll find an austere octagonal design that rises up two floors. 

In the center of it all is the baptismal font (basin) sitting on an impressive arraignment of Arab-origin tiles. Rising from each vertice are gray-striped white marble arches and monolithic columns by renowned sculptor, Pisano. 

The details are best admired from the women’s gallery above, where you can also listen to the celebrated acoustics of the building. Every 30-minutes guardians of the Baptistry sing notes for you to marvel at.

Insider Tip: Make sure to go upstairs and find the window facing the cathedral for one of the best views (and photos) you can get!

5. Check out the Camposanto (the cemetery)

The last building to emerge from the Square of Miracles, the Camposanto is an elegant old cemetery enclosed in rectangular cloisters .

Ornate statues, frescoes, and arches line the halls where famous professors from the University of Pisa are buried, and even members of the Medici Family. 

It’s loosely recognized as the Pantheon or Sistine Chapel of Pisa as it holds significant local, classical, and medieval history of the city. 

6. Explore the Square of Miracles

This sacred architectural complex in the center of Pisa is of highest-regard to the Catholic Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the most popular things to do in Pisa, if not THE most popular.

It comprises the four significant monuments I spoke of above: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa Cathedral, Baptistry, and the Camposanto (cemetery). 

While you should absolutely hit up all the monuments, taking in the scene at the Campo dei Miracoli is an adventure in itself. 

7. Take a food tour

Simplicity and the highest quality ingredients are what make Pisan and Tuscan cuisine truly shine. 

You’ll get to sample these genuine flavors at the city’s most popular and historic eateries on this Pisa Food Tour . 

Taste Tuscany’s famous cured meats and staple dishes enjoyed by Pisan farmer’s and in trattorias. Plus many others, before finishing the day off with a generous scoop of gelato.

• Hours: 3.5 hours
• Price: $96.61 USD / person

“We had a great time with our guide Sacha! She was very personable and gave us insight to local foods, culture, and history. Also, the places we had the opportunity to eat at were amazing! […] I highly recommend this tour and Sacha as a guide. So glad we picked this one!” – Kaleeda, United States (November 2022)

8. Go shopping in the Borgo Stretto district

Lively alleyways and streets sandwiched between the banks of the Arno River and the Piazza dei Cavalieri create one of Pisa’s main shopping areas .

You can find everything from exclusive Italian boutiques to western chain stores in this boho, chic area. As you shop, you’ll also find yourself among exceptional coffee, cake, and gelato offerings.

Make your way north and be sure to stop at Piazza delle Vettovaglie , an old-fashioned food market.

9. Gaze at the Keith Haring mural

In the city’s sea of ancient and medieval history, one of the last things you’d expect to stumble upon is a renowned modern art piece … Much less on the back of a 14th-century church. 

But Keith Haring’s “ Tuttomondo ” has raised the saturation on the back wall of Chiesa di Sant’Antonio Abate since 1989. Since it was completed a few years before his death, it’s his last public work and the largest public mural in Europe.

As you study the mural up close, you’ll notice the meticulous attention to detail and the intricate storytelling embedded within the artwork. Each figure tells its own story, engaging the viewer in a dialogue about themes of equality, freedom, and human rights.

10. Check out the unique Santa Maria Della Spina

Sticking out on the bed of the Arno River, the bright, yet gothic exterior of this church adorned with refined statues and stone faces intrigue anyone passing by. 

It was built around 1230 and believed to have been erected to house a thorn from Christ’s crown.  

Although what you’ll find inside isn’t quite as priceless, the main hall with a 19th-century painted ceiling and a prize of Gothic sculpture, “Madonna of the Rose”, are more than worth a stop inside.

Hours: According to Google, the church doesn’t keep regular hours. It was closed to the public when I visited midday on a Friday.

Entrance fee: Free

Fun fact : The believed relic from the crown can be seen in the Chiesa Parrocchiale di Santa Chiara just north of town. 

11. Walk Pisa’s city walls

Pisa’s medieval walls are some of the most ancient, yet best preserved in Italy . As one of the most interesting things to do in Pisa, it’s a wonder how they’re overlooked by most.

Although only 3 km (1.86 miles) are walkable, there are a trove of ramparts, towers, as well as priceless archaeological and artistic treasures to discover along the route. 

The main entrance is at the Torre di Santa Maria and takes you past parks, gardens, and views over the Pisa Tower and Square of Miracles.

Hours: Monday – Friday (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)

Entrance fee: €5 ($5.42 USD) *purchase tickets at the entrance

12. Become a connoisseur of gelato

Littered with accolades, including a whopping 3 cones from the Gambero Rosso guide (the Michelin star of ice cream), Gelateria De’ Coltelli is the best gelato shop in Pisa , and one of the best in Italy.

Since day one, they’ve used the highest quality ingredients and techniques to create gelato and granitas that you’ll seek, but never find anywhere else.

In my experience, the reviews were true! This was some of the best gelato I had in all of Italy (second only to Gelateria Dondoli in San Gimignano).

13. People-watch in the Piazza dei Cavalieri / Palazzo Della Carovana

This expansive square is lined with interesting 19th and 20th-century architecture , most notably the massive Palazzo della Carovana guarded by a statue of Cosimo I de’ Medici (the Grand Duke of Tuscany).

It’s known as the “Knight’s Square” as it served as the political center of Pisa and was believed to have been the site of the ancient Roman Forum. 

14. Stroll along the Arno River

Lining the river that traces Pisa are heaps of bars, gelaterias, and dining options frequented by locals. As you walk, pop into what piques your interest and enjoy the serene and picturesque atmosphere .

After the hoards of people at Pisa Tower, this is a refreshing area that few tourists regularly visit. Come for sunset, then stick around when the late night scene blooms.

15. Check out a museum or two

While the Square of Miracles is an open-air museum in and of itself, there are a variety of museums in or near it that are worth browsing.

• Museo dell’Opera del Duomo : Paintings, archaeological finds, and treasures from the cathedral and baptistery are on display inside this museum. 
• Museo delle Sinopie : Before admiring the 14th-century frescoes in the Camposanto (cemetery), you’ll want to venture to this museum to see all the original sketches used in the designs. 

Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m . *Sinopie closes at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays

Entrance fee: €10 ($10.85 USD) *includes entrance to all buildings in the Square of Miracles.

Is Pisa, Italy worth visiting?

In short, yes! 

However, my answer is a bit more complicated…

If you only have half a day to stop in and snap a photo of the Leaning Tower—sure it may be worth it to you, but I think you’ll find the hordes of tourists around the tower to be less than charming. In my opinion, I’d skip it. 

I think the real Pisa (beyond the tower) is worth more time to explore and get a feel of what it’s like when all of the day trippers depart. If you have a couple days to dedicate to exploring the charm beyond the Square of Miracles, I think you will be pleasantly surprised. 

How many days do you need in Pisa?

Many people visit Pisa as a half or full day trip and feel satisfied with their visit.

If you only want to see the leaning tower and wander the Field of Miracles, a half day is just enough time. Allot a full day or 2 days if you want more time to explore the art, food, and architecture.

Pisa also makes a great base camp for exploring the rest of Tuscany, which is another thing to consider when planning your trip.

Best time to visit Pisa

You can visit Pisa any time of the year, but some seasons render better than others.

Peak season in Pisa is from June to August. This is when prices, crowds, and temperatures are at an all time high, so I recommend avoiding this season if you can.

Mid-April to May and September to mid-October are the sweet spots to visit Pisa when the summer crowds have thinned, prices are cheaper, but the weather is still favorable.

You can visit Pisa in the winter, but moody rainy weather may impact your experience. Although, the cheap prices and lack of crowds is a huge plus.

Psst! Find out the best time to visit Italy based on seasonal weather patterns in each region and your personal travel style.

How to get to Pisa

The easiest way to get to Pisa is by train , generally from Florence, but you can catch a ticket from other major cities and towns. 

Alternatively, there are buses available from Florence and other cities to Pisa for affordable prices as well using Flixbus . 

Finally, you can fly into the city through the Pisa International Airport from elsewhere in Europe. 

We have an entire article on how to get from Florence to Pisa that details each of the modes of transportation and everything else you should know.

Transportation in Pisa

Pisa is quite small, and most of the sites are close together, so walking is the best way to get around . 

If you need to go a further distance, the city buses are useful and cheap . The main company is called Compagnia Pisana Trasporti (CPT) and they operate the basic urban city buses, plus a faster line called Linee ad Alta Mobilità (LAM).

Rideshare isn’t available in Pisa, but you can use the SIXT App to hail a taxi, or just flag one down on the street. 

Tips for visiting Pisa

These are some must-know tips to keep in mind when visiting Pisa. 

• Visit the tower in the early morning or just before sunset. These hours tend to have the fewest crowds, but know it’ll still be busy. 
• See more than just the tower. Many gloss over the other buildings in this historic piazza, which are just as, if not more fascinating than the tower itself.
• Purchase your entrance tickets in person on your mobile using the QR codes on signs around the Square of Miracles for the fastest transaction. 
• Respect the rules. Especially in a crowded space like the Square of Miracles, with so many visitors trying to get the same photo at once, things can get quite chaotic. It’s important to respect the local rules and DO NOT walk on the grass. 
• Pickpocketing is common. Especially in the Square of Miracles since it’s a public space and many people are distracted getting their cheesy tower photos. Be sure to keep an eye on your bag and valuables!

Where to eat in Pisa

Local delights and Tuscan cuisine are found on menus all over Pisa. Here are some of the top recommended restaurants in the city.

• Trattoria Sant’Omobono : Authentic and locally-loved eatery with fantastic food and atmosphere.
• Osteria Dei Cavalieri : This highly awarded and Michelin guide recommended is acclaimed by locals for steak and seafood.
• La Pergoletta : Inventive Tuscan dishes with an exceptional wine list are highlights of this veteran restaurant.
• La Buca 2 : The place to go in Pisa for fresh and quality seafood.
• Trattoria da Stelio : Family-run trattoria with original, home cooked Italian food.
• Gusto Giusto : Simple and local restaurant most acclaimed for their create-your-own sandwiches.
• Pane e Vino : Small restaurant that serves local and regional ingredients alongside excellent wines.
• Gelateria De’ Coltelli : The best gelato spot in Pisa with handmade and vegan flavors.

Where to stay in Pisa

There are a handful of key districts in Pisa that are worth basing yourself for a day or two.

• Santa Maria is most ideal for first-timers as it is just south of the Square of Miracles and hugs the Arno River. 
• Sant’Antonio is an artistic and down-to-earth area just across the river.
• San Francesco offers narrow streets filled with hip wine and cocktail bars, trattorias, live music, and small artisanal shops. 
• San Martino is just next to Sant’Antonio and known for its pastry shops, pizzerias, and after-dark culture.

Budget hostel: Hostel Pisa Tower  

This perfectly located hostel is just a few minutes walk from the Pisa Tower, center of town, and the train station. The garden, terrace, shared lounge, free Wifi, and nearby restaurants are massive perks that give you everything you need for a comfortable stay or base camp.

Mid-range budget option: L’Agrumello Secret Garden

Immersed in the ancient and hidden gardens of Pisa, this quaint home is steps away from the Leaning Tower and full of charm. It’s a studio style developed from a medieval building and has everything you need for a comfortable stay and plenty of top-notch bars and restaurants nearby.

Mid-budget option: Bed and breakfast Queen

Off the banks of the Arno River just outside of town, this B&B is a 10-minute ride into Pisa from the nearby bus station. It’s an ideal base if you’re spending a few days in the city and want a complete list of amenities. This pretty and peaceful stay has a small kitchenette, private garden, free breakfast, and clean and spacious living areas that make you feel right at home.

Mid-range budget option: Elegant Apartment

This spacious and bright apartment makes you feel like a local with its location near the central train station, airport, and Pisa Tower. It’s recently updated with 3 balconies, a full-service kitchen, spacious living areas, and free Wifi. Plus, it’s connected to the airport every 5-minutes by electric shuttle.

Splurge hotel: Palazzo Feroci

Renovated, yet traditional rooms are the highlight of this boutique hotel in the heart of town. It’s near all the main tourist spots, but still feels quiet and away from the bustle of the city. Grab a room with a scenic terrace and enjoy spotless rooms, top-notch service, and endless amenities.

What to pack for traveling to Pisa

While Pisa is generally a quick stop, don’t forget these essentials to make your visit more comfortable.

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Insulated water bottle
• Sun protection: sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
• Light shawl or scarf (for religious buildings)
• International SIM Card
• Camera (this is our favorite portable tripod for travel !)

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Italy !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Italy trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Round up of the best things to do in Pisa

Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Pisa so you can see everything in one place.

• Free walking tour
• Leaning tower of Pisa
• Pisa Cathedral
• Baptisterium (the Baptistry)
• Camposanto (the cemetery)
• Square of Miracles
• Borgo Stretto shopping
• Keith Haring mural
• Santa Maria Della Spina
• Pisa’s City Walls
• Gelateria De’ Coltelli
• Piazza dei Cavalieri / Palazzo Della Carovana
• Stroll along the Arno River
• Pisa museums

Are you planning a trip to Italy?

We have lots of resources on travel in Italy and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Italy Homepage  for everything you need to know, or start by reading some of our favorite Italy articles here:

• Unforgettable Things to Do in Tuscany
• Best Things to Do in Florence You Won’t Want to Miss!
• Best Things to Do in Rome (on your first visit!)
• Florence to Pisa: How to Get There + Tips

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Have you ever been to Pisa before? What was your experience like? Which of these things to do in Pisa are going straight to the top of your bucket list? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Pisa Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

Located in Tuscany, most people visit Pisa as a day trip from Florence to see the Leaning Tower and take those cheesy (but fun) photos of them pushing it over or holding it up.

But there’s a lot more to Pisa than just the tower, which, along with the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Campo Santo comprise a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are beautiful historic churches, tons of outdoor activities, delicious food, and lots of history. You can easily spend a couple of days here without getting bored.

Because it’s a day trip destination, few tourists stay in the city — or even visit beyond the tower area — so if you do stay longer you’ll have the city to yourself.

This Pisa travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this underrated destination!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Pisa

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Pisa

1. See the Leaning Tower

Pisa’s most famous attraction was started in 1173 and finished in 1399. It’s the bell tower of Pisa’s cathedral, located next door. Although it was meant to be perfectly vertical, the tower started leaning during construction due to the weight of the building on an unstable foundation. Come take a look at the Romanesque tower, walk the 251 steps to the top, and take the quintessential picture of you trying to hold it up (or push it over)! Admission to the top is 20 EUR or 27 EUR for a ticket that includes all the monuments in the complex. DiscoveryPisa runs guided tour of all three sites for 30 EUR if you want a more detailed experience.

2. Admire the Duomo

Construction of this medieval Roman Catholic cathedral began in the 11th century, but some of its most prominent features, including the bronze doors, weren’t added until the 16th century. The stunning building, designed in the Pisan Romanesque style, is impressive inside and out, with lines of columns and arches, a Byzantine-style mosaic at the apse, and a golden ceiling added by the Medicis (a powerful Italian dynasty) in the 16th century. It’s free to enter, but you have to get a ticket that designates a time slot from the ticket office (if you buy a ticket to the Leaning Tower, entrance to the cathedral is included, so you won’t need to get a separate ticket). Just be sure to dress respectfully since it is a religious site.

3. Visit Camposanto

According to legend, this cemetery was built on the spot where Crusaders placed soil they brought back from the Holy Land (“Campo Santo” translates as “Holy Field”). There is a beautiful garden in the cloistered quadrangle, numerous 14th-century frescoes in the Frescoes Room, and three chapels. The lamp that Galileo (the father of observational astronomy) used in his astronomical calculations is located in the Aulla Chapel. It’s 7 EUR to visit on its own, though it’s also part of the 27 EUR Combined Tower Ticket.

4. Tour the Museo di San Matteo

This is an art and history museum housed inside an 11th-century Benedictine convent with a special collection of art from the churches of Pisa. Despite its somewhat petite size, this museum is host to one of the biggest exhibits of Tuscan Renaissance art in all of Europe. Most of the museum focuses on works from the early medieval period to the 16th century, but there is also an exhibit with artifacts discovered from archaeological excavations in and around Pisa. Admission is 5 EUR.

5. Take a day trip to Lucca

Other things to see and do in pisa, 1. take a free walking tour.

One of the first things I do when I arrive in a new city is take a free walking tour. It’s the best budget-friendly way to see the highlights and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Free Walking Tour Pisa offers regular tours that cover all the main sights. Just be sure to tip your guide!

2. Visit the Baptistery of St. John

Located right next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Baptistery of St. John is a religious building that’s actually taller than the Leaning Tower. Construction of the Baptistery began in 1152 and was completed in 1363. The exterior is highly ornamental with intricately carved reliefs and is a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its unusual stacked domes and bronze John the Baptist statue make it one of the most interesting pieces of architecture in Pisa. Because the interior is very plain, it may not be worth battling the crowds to go inside. If you do, it costs 7 EUR (also included in the 27 EUR Tower Combination Ticket).

3. Check out the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

At the east end of Piazza del Duomo is the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo. This building houses an art collection related to the Duomo and Baptistery. The ivory sculpture of Madonna and Child carved by Giovanni Pisano in 1299 is one of the museum’s best highlights. There’s also a cafe with an outdoor terrace that offers unobstructed views of the Leaning Tower. Admission is 7 EUR (also included in the 27 EUR Tower Combination Ticket).

4. See Piazza dei Cavalieri

Piazza dei Cavalieri (Knights’ Square) was once the center of medieval Pisa and likely the site of the city’s Roman Forum. Here you can see the ornate Palazzo dei Cavalieri (Palace of the Convoy), which was once the headquarters for the Knights of St. Stephen (a Catholic military order founded in 1561). Today, it’s home to the Normale di Pisa University, a university founded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1810. The Palazzo dell’Orologio (Clock Palace), once the seat of the government in the Middle Ages, is now the university library.

5. Attend a local cultural event

The Gioco del Ponte (Battle on the Bridge) is a historical reenactment that occurs every summer when teams of 20 attempt to battle across the Ponte di Mezzo. It’s part of Pisan June, a series of events that take place throughout the month of June in honor of the city’s patron saint, San Renieri. Everyone dresses up in 16th-century costumes and plays out battle scenes, including the march of the troops and a “call to arms.” On June 16th, the Luminara Festival takes place, when all the lights along the river are dimmed and thousands of candles are lit. Check the local tourism office to see what other events and festivals are happening during your visit.

6. See the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina

Originally built between 1223-1230, this church is located on the Arno riverbank and is an awesome example of Gothic architecture. Its name derives from the fact that it supposedly used to hold a thorn from Jesus’s crown of thorns. The exterior is extremely ornate and covered in statues and tabernacles. The main attraction, the Madonna of the Rose by Andrea and Nino Pisano, is located inside, where there are sometimes temporary exhibits as well. It’s free to visit.

7. Check out the University of Pisa

First founded in 1343, this is one of the oldest universities in Italy and one of the most respected in Europe. The campus is beautiful, with lots of interesting architecture to admire. The oldest academic botanical garden in Europe, which dates to 1544 and is known as the Orto Botanico di Pisa, can also be found here. Admission for the garden is 4 EUR and includes access to the university’s Botanical Museum, too.

8. Get your art fix for free

Palazzo Blu (the Blue Palace) is an art and cultural center in a 14th-century mansion along the Arno River in Pisa’s historic center. It is home to over 300 works of art ranging from the 14th to 20th centuries, many created by famous Pisan artists. The Palazzo Blu has been known to host exhibits from masters like Salvador Dalí and Toulouse-Lautrec. There are also several rooms set up like the 19th-century aristocratic mansion that the building once was, as well as an exhibition dedicated to archaeology and medieval history. Admission is 3 EUR (sometimes with an additional fee for temporary exhibitions).

9. Visit the seaside

Pisa’s historic monuments get all the hype, and few visitors realize just how close the city is to the Mediterranean. For less than 4 EUR round-trip, you can take a 15-minute bus ride to the beach town of Marina di Pisa. Stick your toes in the sand, walk along the boardwalk, dine at one of the many harborfront restaurants, and watch the sunset over the water.

10. See Pisa’s most famous mural

Located on the back of the Sant’Antonio Abate church, this mural was created by pop artist Keith Haring in 1989. He regarded it as one of his most important works and was one of the last murals he completed before his death just one year later. Entitled “Tuttomondo,” which translates to “All World,” the mural’s numerous cartoon figures represent different aspects of peace and harmony. It’s one of the largest murals in all of Europe .

  For more information on other cities in Italy, check out these guides:

• Cinque Terre Travel Guide
• Florence Travel Guide
• Milan Travel Guide
• Naples Travel Guide
• Rome Travel Guide
• Sorrento Travel Guide
• Venice Travel Guide

Pisa Travel Costs

Hostel prices – For a bed in a dorm with 6-8 beds, prices range from 29-40 EUR per night. For a private room, expect to pay 75-110 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard but self-catering facilities and free breakfast are rare. Prices don’t fluctuate too much per season.

Budget hotel prices – Prices range from 55-75 EUR per night for a budget hotel. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and AC. Some include free breakfast.

On Airbnb, you can find private rooms starting at 35-55 EUR per night. Entire homes/apartments cost 65-90 EUR and up per night. Expect prices to double if you don’t book early.

Average cost of food – Italian cuisine is beloved around the world, though every region in Italy offers its own distinct flavor. Tomatoes, pasta, olives, and olive oil form the backbone of most meals, with meat and fish and various cheeses rounding out the menu.

In Pisa, seafood is very popular, owing to the city’s location on the coast. Don’t miss trying fried eels, crostini toscani (chicken liver pate), and tagliatelle al tartufo (pasta with truffles).

Quick eats like pizza, paninis, and light snacks cost between 3-7 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 7 EUR for a value meal. Chinese restaurants, where main dishes cost only 6-9 EUR, are another option for affordable eats.

Most mid-range restaurant meals with wine and an appetizer cost around 25 EUR. Expect to pay more for meals bought in touristy areas of the city. For a more casual pasta or pizza meal, expect to pay closer to 10-15 EUR. Seafood dishes start at around 15-20 EUR.

Beer costs around 4.50 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 1.50 EUR. Bottled water is less than 1 EUR.

If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, expect to pay 50-60 EUR per week for groceries. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Pisa Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 60 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly free activities like seeing the Leaning Tower and taking free walking tours. If you want to enjoy a couple of drinks, add 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 135 EUR per day, you can stay in a budget hotel or private room on Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like climbing the Leaning Tower and visiting the museums.

On a “luxury” budget of 225 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a nicer hotel or Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, take more taxis or rent a car, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Pisa Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Pisa is a tourist hotspot thanks to the Leaning Tower, which means it can be kind of pricey to visit — especially during the summer. However, outside the main tourist area, the city is not too expensive. Here are some ways to save money in Pisa:

• Avoid the summer – Summertime is hot, crowded, and expensive. Tourists flock to the city as they stop by on their way through Italy, so accommodations are pricier and harder to come by. Consider visiting in the shoulder season when the weather is still nice and the crowds have thinned.
• Get a combination monument ticket – No matter what attractions in Pisa you plan on seeing, you’ll save money by getting a combination ticket. You can get a ticket that includes all of the main historic sights and climbing the tower for 27 EUR, or just the sights without the tower for 10 EUR. Considering a ticket to a single attraction is 7 EUR and the tower itself is 20 EUR, if you only visit three sights, you’re already saving money.
• Pass on the bread – Some restaurants charge extra for bread or breadsticks on the table — but they won’t tell you about it until the bill comes. Send it back if you don’t want to be tempted.
• Eat cheap – Eating out every meal is expensive. Buy paninis and pizza by the slice for just a few dollars to save money. Additionally, if you’re on a tight budget, cook most of your meals. Groceries are affordable and you’ll save a ton.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is quite expensive in Pisa so use Couchsurfing to stay with locals for free. Not only will you save money but you’ll get to connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice!
• Go on a free walking tour – This is a great way to learn the history behind the places you are seeing and to avoid missing any must-see stops. Just be sure to tip your tour guide at the end!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Pisa

Pisa doesn’t have many hostels so be sure to book early if you want budget accommodation. Here are my recommended places to stay in Pisa:

• Safestay Pisa
• Hostel Pisa Tower
• Helvetia Pisa Tower

How to Get Around Pisa

Public transportation – Pisa is a very small city, so it’s easy to get around on foot. Most of the major attractions are within walking distance but there is a small network of buses in Pisa that can take you just about everywhere you need to go. Bus fare is 1.50 EUR for a single ticket and tickets are purchased on the bus.

Taxis – Taxis are expensive here so it’s best to avoid them. If you do take them, base rates are 3.15 EUR and then 1.52 EUR per kilometer. They add up fast so stick to the bus!

Bike rental – Pisa has lots of bike routes in and around the city. You can find bike rentals for around 15 EUR per day. E-bikes start at 34 EUR per day.

When to Go to Pisa

Peak season in Pisa is during the summer, from June to September. Although it’s very busy during these months, the weather is fantastic. There’s almost constant sunshine and the skies are clear and blue. Temperatures hover between 26-30°C (78-86°F). Expect crowds and high prices. Book early if you’re visiting during this time.

April to May is the shoulder season, and (in my opinion) this is the best time to visit. It’s warm, prices are lower, and all the sites are uncrowded. The average temperature is 18°C (64°F) per day.

Winter in Pisa is from October to March. Temperatures rarely drop below 5°C (41°F) and February can sometimes be rainy. This isn’t the best time to visit, but the city is quieter and a bit cheaper.

How to Stay Safe in Pisa

Pisa is a very safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Your biggest concern here is going to be pickpocketing, which is a common occurrence at the Leaning Tower. Keep your valuables safe and out of sight and always be vigilant, especially on public transportation as pickpockets can strike on crowded buses.

Be mindful of street vendors who sell fake items (including fake luxury goods). Vendors can be aggressive so it’s best to ignore them. You can be fined by the police for buying from illegal street vendors so simply pass them by.

While scams here are rare, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid right here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones, so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Pisa Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Walks of Italy – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Italy.
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Pisa Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Italy and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Milan: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Florence

The 8 Best Hotels in Rome

The Best Walking Tours in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Venice

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10 Things You Need to Know About Pisa, Italy

Join our Introduction to Pisa Tour to learn about this remarkable town's historic context

Pisa’s rich history extends far beyond its most famous landmark – the Leaning Tower of Pisa. There are so many things to do in Pisa, Italy, like viewing historical masterpieces, museums, churches, palaces, and more.

Nestled in the Tuscany region, Pisa offers the fun of the modern world (nightlife, great food, etc.) set inside a charming city studded with beautiful examples of Medieval architecture. Whether you’re planning an extended stay or just a day trip to Pisa, here are our insider tips and tricks to make the most of your time in Pisa, Italy.

Getting to Pisa

Planes, trains, and automobiles! These are all options when it comes to traveling to Pisa.

One of our best tips is to plan your transportation and save yourself the stress of navigating a train station at the last minute. Put together your Pisa itinerary and research your travel options so you have a game plan when you’re ready to hit the road.

There are several great options, including:

• Plane – the Galileo Galilei Airport (also known as the Pisa International Airport) offers direct flights from many major European cities and some cities in the Middle East and North Africa.
• Train – Pisa is well-connected by train, so you can travel from most major Italian cities, including Florence, Rome, and Milan. You may also be able to travel directly to Pisa from outside Italy, as Nice and Geneva also offer direct train rides. Pisa’s main train station is Pisa Centrale, located within walking distance of Pisa’s city center.
• Car – Driving in Pisa can be a bit of an adventure, so be prepared! The city has limited parking options, though you can find parking lots outside the city walls.
• Bus – The bus station is conveniently located near the train station, and there are several bus companies that offer transportation to Pisa from other Italian or European cities.

Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Instantly recognizable and undeniably iconic, the Leaning Tower of Pisa draws millions of visitors every year.

But where is the Leaning Tower of Pisa located in Italy? You can find it in the Piazza del Miracoli. Contrary to popular belief, the Tower just didn’t lean over time – it started leaning soon after construction started.

Commissioned by wealthy merchant Bonanno Pisano, construction on the Tower started in 1173. This landmark was initially intended to be a bell tower for a cathedral, but constant construction interruptions due to wars, financial struggles, and engineering issues hampered the Tower’s progress.

The soft ground under the Tower quickly presented a problem. The lean continued to become more prominent, and ongoing stabilization efforts began. Architects and builders started adding weight to the opposite side of the Tower, as well as digging channels around the base to help with soil drainage.

Extensive restoration efforts were completed in 2001, and the Tower reopened to the public soon after. While the Tower is safe, a limited number of visitors are allowed at a time and they must wear special shoes to protect the marble steps.

Today, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of Italy's most popular tourist attractions. Despite its pronounced lean, the tower remains a symbol of the ingenuity and creativity of the Medieval builders who constructed it.

One of the best things to do in Pisa is a guided tour, which allows you to gain a deeper and more nuanced understanding of this historic city.  Due to the popular and photogenic Piazza dei Miracoli (home to the Leaning Tower), day-trippers flock to the city on a daily basis but are typically limited to a small slice of the city.

On our half-day Introduction to Pisa Tour , an excursion beginning from Tuscany or a variety of other Tuscan towns, you can explore not only the religious structures of the city, but also delve into its dramatic political history as a republic, its significance as a Medieval art center, and its present-day status as a university town.

Exploring Pisa's Other Landmarks

Once you’ve taken one of those famous, classic pictures at the Leaning Tower of Pisa (we’ve all done it!), take some time to adventure around and find other things to do in Pisa – and there’s quite a bit to do.

Pisa Cathedral

This stunning cathedral is one of the most beautiful in all of Tuscany. While its Leaning Tower may steal the spotlight, the cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. The detailed, elaborate exterior is a sight to behold, and the reflective, awe-inspiring interior includes gold accents. Make sure to look up – the cathedral’s golden ceiling is an impressive piece of art, added during the 16th century under Medici rule.

Pisa Baptistery

Located front and center in the Square of Miracles, the Baptistery’s extradordinary exterior is reminiscent of a crown. It is the largest baptistery in Italy and was built prior to the Leaning Tower. While not as pronounced as the Tower, the Baptistery also has a slight lean. The artistic centerpiece is a carved marble pulpit by Nicola Pisano depicting Mary in various phases.

Camposanto Monumentale

Also known as Campo Santo – which translates to “holy field” – this historical edifice is located in Cathedral Square. According to local legend, Campo Santo is built on sacred soil shipped from Golgotha in the 12th century. This incredible cemetery embodies Gothic architecture with large columns and archways spread across its oblong structure.

Understanding Pisan Culture and Customs

Festivals, traditions, and an emphasis on food and family color the beautiful Pisan culture. The people of Pisa place a high importance on education and history, and they are very proud of their city’s important role in Tuscany’s past and present.

The riposo is Italy’s version of a siesta, a midday break when churches, museums, businesses, and shops close down for a few hours of rest. Whether it’s a long lunch or time to relax, this is an excellent opportunity to soak in all you’ve seen and enjoy a stroll down the quiet streets. Research your destinations and plan ahead – then you won’t face an unexpected afternoon closure.

Eating and Drinking in Pisa

Savor Pisa’s local specialties to truly experience this magical city. There’s no shortage of delicious food and wine to enjoy amongst spectacular historic buildings. Common specialties found in restaurants in Italy include:

• Cacciucco – a stew made with various types of seafood, including fish, squid, and shellfish.
• Pappardelle alla lepre – a pasta dish with wide noodles covered in a slow-cooked, rich sauce made from hare meat.
• Trippa alla Pisana – a tripe dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, and herbs.
• Lampredotto – a street food made from the fourth stomach of a cow slow-cooked with onions, tomato sauce, and herbs.
• Cecina – traditional Italian flatbread made from chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and salt.

The hallmark of Pisan cuisine is simple, flavorful dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Experience the city’s rich cultural heritage the way it was meant to be experienced – through delicious, unforgettable meals.

Staying in Pisa

In Pisa, Italy, you can find accommodations for nearly every budget. Pisa has a range of hotels, from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly lodging. Some popular hotels in the city include Hotel Galilei, Grand Hotel Bonanno, and NH Pisa.

Looking for a more personal experience? Stay at a bed and breakfast in Pisa. Often located in historic buildings, these boutique B&Bs provide amenities like breakfast, the expertise of a local, and other charming benefits. There’s no better way to get to know a city than over an espresso at breakfast with a local.

For budget-conscious travelers, there are several hostels in Pisa offering shared dormitory-style accommodation. Hostels in the city include Hostel Pisa Tower, Hostel Villa Giulia, and Pisa Central Station Hostel.

Pisa also has a range of vacation rental options, including apartments, villas, and guesthouses. Vacation rentals offer the opportunity to stay in a private space and experience life like a local. If you want a kitchen to cook in or a place to do laundry, this could be a great option.

If you’re interested in more rustic accommodations, try a campground! Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy campgrounds in and around Pisa, including Camping Village Torre Pendente, Camping Village Torre Rinalda, and Camping Maremma Sans Souci.

Money and Tipping in Pisa

Pisa uses the euro for currency, and there are currency exchanges located throughout the city. If you need to exchange currency, check rates as they vary between banks, hotels, and train stations. Taking a few moments to shop around can help you save on your exchange rate.

As with most places in Europe, American-style tipping isn’t customary in Pisa. If you feel the service has been particularly good, you can leave a small tip, but it isn’t expected. There are rarely tip lines included on receipts, so ensure you have some coins handy for tips. It’s also nice to leave a small tip for the hotel cleaning staff, around one or two euros per day of your stay at the hotel.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

Pisa’s Mediterranean climate features rainy winters and hot, sunny summers. Keep the season in mind when planning your trip to Pisa to ensure you maximize your time in this beautiful city!

The coldest month is usually January, and August tends to be the hottest time of year. In the heat of the summer, the temperature can hover close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, often with muggy humidity.

Safety and Security in Pisa

Pisa is considered a safe place to travel, but there are a few things to remember. Pickpockets can be a risk in any metropolitan city, and Pisa is no different. Stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close (especially on public transit), and avoid getting distracted by your cell phone. If you are traveling by car, don’t leave luggage or other personal items in the car or within sight.

Tourist scams are prevalent as well, like unofficial tour guides, unauthorized ticket “helpers” who ask for a tip after helping you buy a train ticket, and people who attempt to hand you small items (like a rose or a bracelet) and then request money in exchange for the item.

Plan Your Trip to Pisa, Italy

Make the most of your time in Pisa and create your dream itinerary! With so much to see, you’ll have no trouble bringing to life the Italian vacation you’ve always imagined.

Save yourself some time and let us do the planning for you with our guided tour of Pisa . This expertly crafted experience is designed to help you make the most of your time in the fabled city of Pisa, Italy.

If you want a little sneak peek of what to expect, check out Context Learning! We have great online courses that will give you a jump start on your adventure.

• Florence Online Courses
• Connect with Context Experts Through an Italy Seminar
• Tuscany Online Courses

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25 Things to Do in Pisa Italy, Bucket List Experiences

Top things to do in pisa italy.

If you are planning a trip to Pisa Italy and looking for the best things to do, see and eat while visiting, you are in the right place. Pisa is famous for its iconic Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles. The city is full of cobblestone pedestrian-only shopping with shutter-adorned worn buildings and amazing seafood. Browse the list of must-see attractions, off-the-beaten-path experiences, outdoor activities, and museums to create your personal Pisa Italy bucket list. Then, plan the itinerary for your Pisa Italy trip with these top things to do, see, and eat. Pisa is a simple add-on to your Tuscany itinerary. When flying into the Galileo Galilei International Airport take the Pisa Mover to the Pisa Centrale Station. Leave your luggage in the deposito bagagli (baggage storage). Exit the main entrance, it is a 30-minute walk to the Square of Miracles. Enjoy your time out of the office!

READ Complete Italy Travel Guide, What You Need to Know

READ Things to Do in Florence Italy

Things to Do in and Around Pisa Italy

Stop at St Anthony Church to see Tuttomondo by Keith Haring, the biggest mural in Europe

Shop along Corso Italia

Take photos of Logge Dei Banchi

Stop on the Ponte Di Mezzo for great views of the Arno River

Take a photo of Gambacorti Palace

Visit the Palazzo Blu’s current art exhibit

Grab a gelato and take a walk through the Lungarni

Stop in Caffè dell’Ussero for a cappuccino

Take a photo of Santa Maria della Spina beautiful façade

Take a photo of Palazzo Agostini

Visit Piazza delle Vettovaglie for a cocktail and people watching

Shop for souvenirs along Borgo Stretto

See a show at the Verdi Theater

Explore the medieval Piazza dei Cavalieri

Take a photo of Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa

Climb the worn staircase to the top of the Leaning Tower

Take the obligatory picture holding up or pushing over the tower

Check out the Angelo Caduto sculpture

Have a picnic lunch in the Campo dei Miracoli

Check out the Duomo’s ornate gold ceiling

Explore the tombs and frescoes at Campo Santo Monumentale

Climb to the top of the baptistery for the best views of Pisa with the Leaning Tower in your frame

Check out the old city walls and Lion’s Gate

Return after sunset for photos of the tower illuminated

Climb the Guelph Tower for great city views

Be sure to check the Pisa Italy Tourism Board website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

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Can you go up in the tower these days? I remember they stopped that for a while due to safety reasons….and thanks for all the other cool ideas other than just the leaning tower :). Great post!

Yes you can!

We’ve somehow managed to NOT get to Italy yet, but Pisa is on our list to visit once we finally get out act together 😛 I love that you’ve included so much more than just the tower. I’ll have to look up some of the other activities and put them on the list. Pinning for later!

Happy to help!

I had no idea just how much there was to do and see in Pisa. All you ever hear about is the leaning tower! I want to try out this Walking in the City App too!

Italy is on my list this year so thanks for these tips! A lot of Pisa guides I’ve read focus on Pisa tower alone so I’m glad to know that there’s more to it than the tower alone. I am an architecture nerd so the tower is also high on my list.

I’ve not been to Italy yet but obviously Pisa is on my list but great to know there is so much more to do there than just the leaning tower. I would love to see Duomo’s ornate gold ceiling. I can only imagine how good a cappuccino in Caffè dell’Ussero would taste 😀

That ceiling is beautiful

I really want to visit Pisa at some point in the near future! It looks like such a beautiful place! Nice to know there is a lot to see and do besides the leaning tower too!

Short but sweet stop! Great tip about having to reserve the Tower. And I’d like to see the biggest mural!

Pisa is a gorgeous city. We spent a particularly memorable night there one July when we unexpectedly happened upon a fiesta. All the river was lit up with fireworks and the houses with little lamps. It was beautiful and some of the best fireworks I have ever seen

I visited Pisa many, many years ago, and sadly, I was left a bit cold. You highlight a lot of things to do in the city, and I agree that a half day would suffice in this town. I may give it another try in future, though I’d much rather spend time in nearby, incredible Siena! 🙂

This is a great long list of things to do in Pisa. We have travelled in that part of Italy but never stopped in Pisa. Will need to plan a long stay to tackle your list! I would definitely want to climb to the top and see the panoramic view.

One day in Pisa is enough as long as you make reservations for the tower

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An Italian Mama's Guide to Italy

One day in Pisa: best things to see and must-have travel tips

One day in Pisa: all you need to know for a perfect day trip to this iconic Tuscan town.

Pisa is one of the most famous destinations in the whole of Italy.

Its unique leaning tower appears as a must-see place in almost all Italian itineraries and ignites the fantasy of kids (and adults) from all over the world.

I, for one, love it.

I believe Piazza dei Miracoli to be one of the most beautiful places in the world and I find it to have that magical quality that only true works of art have.

However, not everyone loves Pisa.

The vast number of tourists and especially the presence of large groups means Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa’s most famous square, is often so busy and dirty that visitors feel disappointed and consider Pisa a let down.

While indeed large crowds can be overwhelming here, this is not to say that a day in Pisa is not worth your time.

Despite everything, Pisa is so unique, beautiful and majestic, it is always worth a trip!

This is our guide for a pleasant one day in Pisa, Tuscany.

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we might make a small commission.

One day in Pisa: need to know

Pisa is an ancient town but suffered massive destruction during the war. Because of this, tourism concentrates on the only par of the center that stayed intact, the main Piazza dei Miracoli, the one with the tower.

To see the square, you do not need a full day: a morning will suffice.

However, if you want to experience a real Tuscan town and not just a tourist destination, you can spend a whole day here and tap into the less touristy part of the city, less scenic but also more authentic.

How avoid the crowds if visiting Pisa for a day

Pisa is one of the most popular day trips from Florence and receives a large number of tourists every day, pretty much any day of the year.

The best way to avoid crowds is to get to to the busiest part of the city, Piazza dei Miracoli and the leaning tower, early in the morning, before visitors coming from out of time make it into the city.

To visit the tower, advance booking is recommended, as the line on the day is usually exceedingly long.

The leaning tower of Pisa ticket office opens bookings 20 days before the date of the visit.

You can check prices of tickets and tours at the following links: unless otherwise specified, these tours and tickets are via GetYour Guide, which is my ticket and tour provider of choice and has excellent cancellation options, up to one day before the tour.

• Leaning tower of Pisa ticket office
• Reserved entrance leaning tower of Pisa and Pisa Cathedral
• All inclusive Piazza dei Miracoli Tour : cathedral, tower, baptistry (excluded the monumental cemetery)
• Pisa cathedral tour and optional leaning tower visit

The best things to see in Pisa in one day

If you have 1 day in Pisa, you should devote most of your time to the town’s most famous attractions, Pisa’s famous tower and the duomo complex, and then take a stroll along the Arno river.

These are, I believe, the prettiest and more interesting areas of the city and what I believe make Pisa one of the small towns of Tuscany worth visiting .

These are also the places we cover in this Pisa one day itinerary.

Piazza dei Miracoli (Piazza del Duomo)

Piazza dei Miracoli is Pisa’s jewel in the crown and one of the most beautiful piazzas in the whole of Italy .

This is the large Piazza with the leaning tower of Pisa, the town cathedral, baptistry and monumental cemetery and is breathtaking.

The buildings, made of a light colored stone, shine brightly against on the green grass that forms the pavement of the square and they are so majestic and harmonious in their architectural unity, you cannot but stop and admire them.

The square is so unique, UNESCO added it to its list of World Heritage Sites in 1987.

Access to the square is free but access to specific attractions is ticketed.

Fun fact : while usually called Piazza dei Miracoli (‘square of Miracles’), the official name of this square is Piazza del Duomo. The ‘miracles’ name dates back to the beginning of the XX century when poet D’Annunzio used the expression ‘lawn of miracles’ when referring to the square in one of its writings!

The leaning tower of Pisa

The leaning tower is not the most beautiful building in the square but definitely the one that steals the show.

In its origins, it was simply meant to be the bell tower of the nearby duomo but the peculiar fate of its foundations (which collapsed under its weight, on unstable grounds) meant it is now an attraction in itself and a very busy one!

You can see the tower from outside or you can climb up either on your own or joining a guided tour.

Some worth checking out are:

Pisa’s Duomo

Il Duomo di Pisa (Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta, Pisa’s cathedral) is beside the tower and has a similar design, characterized by light colored stones and decorative columns.

It is a stunning building and worth seeing both outside and inside.

When you walk in, you will be mesmerized by the abundance and variety of the decorations here, mixing elements of Romanesque, Bizantine and even Islamic aesthetic.

This wealth of influences must be found in the maritime vocation of Pisa and its connection with the rest of the Mediterranean, which guaranteed trade and cultural exchanges.

not to be missed inside the duomo are especially the apse mosaic by Cimabue (1302) and the pulpit by Giovanni Pisano (XIV century).

Access to the duomo is free but ticketed: you can get timed ticketed for the duomo only on the day or you get free entrance if you buy access ticket to other attractions on the square.

Ticket and guided tours to check out are:

Pisa’s battistero

The baptistry of Pisa is the third monument completing the complex of Piazza dei Miracoli but, like the others, it is also worth seeing as an individual attraction.

The baptistry’s construction started in 1152 however, many elements were added at a subsequent time, which explains while there are some Gothic influence in this otherwise Romanesque complex.

The Pisa baptistry is incredible: round in shape, it is the biggest baptistry in Europe and comes in at a size of 107 met circumference and 55 meters height.

Inside, it is built following the same structure as the nearby tower and has beautiful pieces such as an octagonal baptismal fountain and pulpit.

Something special! The round shape of the baptistry and especially its peculiar double dome, make the baptistry and acoustic marvel. At regular intervals, you can hear the vocal intonations made to showcase the echo of this marvel to its visitors!

Il camposanto, Pisa’s monumental cemetery

Il camposanto is a monumental cemetery immediately beside Piazza dei Miracoli and an a place not to be missed, no matter how little time you may have in Pisa.

Built in 1277, the cemetery has a rectangular shape and a beautiful cloister inside with stunning Gothic arcades, frescoes and important tombs, previously scattered around the cathedral.

The camposanto deserves a visit for its architecture and tombs but also for the incredible frescoes it contains, a wonderful Death’s Triumph by Buffalmacco that is invaluable and unique.

Access to the camposanto is ticketed: tickets can be bought on the day on location or can be bought in advance here

Orto Botanico – Pisa’s Botanical Gardens

If you need a break from the crowds of the piazza, then you should head to the nearby Pisa Botanical gardens.

Founded in 1543-1544, the botanical gardens are a lovely place for a walk and a rest and have several secluded and a nice collection of succulents in a rather impressive glass house.

The garden is a pleasant stop during a day in Pisa and feels a little like a hidden gem – rare in such a busy town!

Pisa’s botanical gardens are close to lovely streets with restaurants and cafes, perfect for a stroll and a meal.

Lungarno – Pisa’s river walk

Pisa is crossed by the Arno River, the same that crosses Florence , and has therefore a Lungarno, or rather 2: Lugarno are the roads along the banks of the river.

The most famous lungarno is probably the Lungarno Mediceo, called this way due to the presence of the Medici palace.

Here, you can take a pleasant stroll and also see the peculiar church of Santa Maria della Spina, which looks like a miniature of a Gothic church!

The church’s name has a special history: ‘spina’ means ‘thorn’ and the church is said to have hosted one of the thorn of Jesus’ crown.

A walk along Lungarno is easy to add to your Pisa itinerary and can be a pleasant way to get in river views and get a sense of the wider geography of pisa, away from the monumental square.

Borgo stretto

Near Lungarno you get to borgo stretto , a historical road still with artisan sops and porticoes that give the place an out of time type of atmosphere.

This is a nice road that has that distinct out of time feel Tuscan towns do so well and it is special in Pisa since so much of the city suffered terribly during the war.

A walk here is a nice opportunity to experience a different side of the city. The location is still central, so this stop is easily added to a day itinerary in Pisa city center.

Fun fact : close to here, you can see the two more leaning towers of Pisa. Yes, the city has a grand total of 3! One of them is at Chiesa di San Nicola and the other one is at San Michele degli Scalzi (they are not quite as impressive as the most famous one though!)

Piazza dei Cavalieri

Very different from the other piazza featured in this Pisa one day itinerary is Piazza dei Cavalieri,the center of Medieval and Renaissance Pisa.

The square is famous for hosting the prestigious Scuola Normale di Pisa , Palazzo dei Cavalieri and also the so called Torre della Muda or Torre della Fame (Hunger tower), which has a macabre history.

As recalled also by Dante in the Divine Comedy’s Inferno , in the 1200s Count Ugolino got imprisoned here with his family, deprived of food and water.

History tells us that they all starved to death but Dante adds a twist to the story, telling us that the count ate his children and nephews before encountering his own death!

History or legend, a visit to Piazza dei Cavalieri and its prison is a must when in Pisa!

One day in Pisa with kids

All the landmarks mentioned in this itinerary are suitable for a visit with kids too.

As silly as this is, my kids adored looking for a spot to take a photo ‘holding up’ the tower and this quest got them walking way more than they would have otherwise endured.

It was also a fun way to chat about perspective and optical tricks, if you are inclined to sneaking in some scientific facts!

Our kids also enjoyed strolling along the quieter Pisa streets, where we got good gelato, the horse and carriages on Piazza dei Cavalieri and the walk along the river.

In Pisa you can also:

• Take a horse carriage tour of the city center – perfect for tired little legs but please avoid it in summer as the horses really suffer the heat
• Visit Museum of Natural History of Pisa , outside of the center, which as, among other things, a cool sensory path for little ones

Top tip : if your child is in need for a sweet treat, you can have gelato but even better, you can get them to taste of of Pisa’s most delicious traditions: torta co’ bischeri ! Sweet pastry filled with chocolate!

How to get around Pisa in a day

You can easily see all the attractions on this itinerary on foot or you can catch the bus from the station to the tower first and then explore on for.

The buses connecting the main Pisa Centrale train station to Piazza dei Miracoli is called LAM Rossa (red LAM): the ride takes about 15 minutes, tickets last 70mins and cost 1.50 Euro.

You can buy tickets at the newsagent in the station and you find the bus stop immediately outside the station exit.

If you prefer to walk, you can get to the tower in about 20 minutes: I usually catch the bus to go and then walk back, so I can pass Piazza dei Cavalieri and see Lungarno.

Another alternative for those coming by train is to use the station of Pisa San Rossore: this station is slightly closer to the tower but much less served than Pisa central and bus waiting times may be long so I usually find Centrale better.

Another fun way to discover Pisa is by bike.

Bikes are available for rent at Pisa Centrale where you also find a good luggage deposit service.

Good to know: due to its excellent train connections with Rome, Florence, Lucca, La Spezia and Versilia, Pisa is one of the best places to visit in Tuscany without a car !

The best place to stay in Pisa

The best way to avoid crowds in Pisa is to get to Pisa’s main attractions early and there is not better way to do so than staying in the town.

This way, you will have the advantage of being already on location in the morning, and can also prolong your day in Pisa after sunset, which can also be a lovely time to enjoy the town with bit of quiet.

The best place to stay in Pisa for sightseeing off-peak hours and a good starting point to this 1 day itinerary of Pisa is the area of Santa Maria, the closest to the tower and Lungarno.

Hotels to consider in these locations are:

Hotel di Stefano ( click here for prices and info ), a short walk from the tower, as well as an excellent location it also has a wonderful terrace with views of the tower

Hotel Roma ( click here for into and prices ), just off piazza dei Miracoli, this is a lovely hotel with nice rooms, some with balconies and one of the best locations in town. As well as close to the tower and Pisa’s main landmarks, it has the bus stop to the train station and Pisa airport just in front.

Hotel Bologna ( click here for info and specs ), is a great hotel in Pisa if you need easy access to the train station especially. The hotel has nice, functional rooms, family rooms perfect if you are in Pisa with kids and an airport shuttle service.

I hope you enjoyed this quick overview of the best things to see in Pisa in one day. Safe travel planning!

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Marta Correale

Marta Correale is an Italian mama of two. Born and raised in Rome, Marta has a passion for travel and especially enjoys showing off Italy to her kids, who are growing up to love it as much as she does! A classics graduate, teacher of Italian as a second language and family travel blogger, Marta launched Mama Loves Italy as a way to inspire, support and help curious visitors to make the most of a trip to Italy and learn about Italian culture on the way.

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For many tourists, Pisa means just one thing – the Leaning Tower, which serves around the world as a shorthand image for Italy . It is indeed a freakishly beautiful building, a sight whose impact no amount of prior knowledge can blunt. Yet it is just a single component of Pisa’s breathtaking Campo dei Miracoli, or Field of Miracles, where the Duomo, Baptistry and Camposanto complete a dazzling architectural ensemble.

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If you think about Pisa, you think about the Leaning Tower. While the Leaning Tower of Pisa undoubtedly steals the spotlight, there's much more to this charming Italian city than its iconic architectural marvel.

Nestled in the picturesque Tuscany region, Pisa offers a delightful blend of history, art, and a relaxed atmosphere that invites exploration. As you wander through its cobbled streets, you'll discover a treasure trove of medieval architecture, quaint squares, and vibrant markets that reflect the city's rich cultural heritage.

From the breathtaking beauty of the Piazza dei Miracoli, where the Leaning Tower stands, to the serene banks of the Arno River, Pisa is a destination that captivates with its unique character and offers a glimpse into the authentic Italian way of life.

Rough Guides tip: For more practical guidance browse our Italy itineraries and find the best option to suit your tastes.

Visiting the leaning tower and Duomo in Pisa ©Shutterstock

There is a reason why this city is one of the most visited cities in Italy. Pisa is known for it's Leaning Tower, but it has much more to offer. Spend a day or 3 in this city and you'll never want to leave. These are the best things to do.

#1 Climb the 294 steps to the top of the Leaning Tower

The Leaning Tower (Torre Pendente) has always tilted. Begun in 1173, it started to subside when it had reached just three of its eight storeys, but it leaned in the opposite direction to the present one. Odd-shaped stones were inserted to correct this deficiency, whereupon the tower lurched the other way.

Over the next 180 years, a succession of architects continued to extend the thing upwards, each one endeavouring to compensate for the angle. The end result is that the main part of the tower is slightly bent.

Around 1350, Tommaso di Andrea da Pontedera completed the magnificent stack of marble and granite arcades by crowning it with a bell chamber, set closer to the perpendicular than the storeys below it, so that it looks like a hat set at a rakish angle. A rescue operation was launched in 1990 to counterbalance the leaning stonework.

World famous leaning tower in Pisa in Piazza dei Miracoli © Shutterstock

#2 Take in The Duomo

Pisa’s breathtaking Duomo was begun in 1064 and completed around a century later. The building is the archetype of Pisan-Romanesque, a model often imitated in buildings across Tuscany , but never surpassed. With its four levels of variegated colonnades, it features a subtle interplay of dark grey marble and white stone.

Much of the vast interior was redecorated, and some of the chapels remodelled, after a fire in 1595. A notable survivor is the apse mosaic Christ in Majesty, completed by Cimabue in 1302.

Don’t miss the pulpit, which Giovanni Pisano began to sculpt also in 1302. The last of the great series of pulpits created in Tuscany by Giovanni and his father Nicola (the others are in Siena and Pistoia), it is a work of amazing virtuosity, its whole surface animated by figures almost wholly freed from the stone.

#3 Visit Italy’s largest Baptistry

The Baptistry, the largest such building in Italy, was begun in 1152 by a certain Diotisalvi (“God Save You”), who left his name on a column to the left of the door. It was continued in the thirteenth century by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, and completed late in the fourteenth century.

Inside you’re immediately struck by the plainness of the vast interior (the acoustics are astonishing, as the guard will demonstrate). Take time to admire Nicola Pisano’s beautiful pulpit, sculpted in 1260, half a century before his son’s work in the cathedral.

Baptistry in Pisa © Shutterstock

#4 Wander the Camposanto, the most beautiful cemetery in the world

The screen of white marble running along the north edge of the Campo dei Miracoli is the perimeter wall of what has been called the most beautiful cemetery in the world – the Camposanto.

According to legend, Archbishop Ubaldo Lanfranchi had Pisan knights on the Fourth Crusade of 1203 bring a cargo of soil back to Pisa from the hill of Golgotha, in order that eminent Pisans might be buried in holy earth.

The building enclosing this sanctified site was completed almost a century later and takes the form of an enormous Gothic cloister. However, when Ruskin described the Camposanto as one of the most precious buildings in Italy, it was the frescoes he was praising.

Paintings once covered more than two thousand square metres of cloister wall, but Allied bombs set the roof on fire, drenching them in molten lead. One important survivor is the remarkable Triumph of Death cycle.

Detail of the Camposanto Cemetery in Pisa, Italy © Shutterstock

#5 Swot up at the museums of the Campo dei Miracoli

Re-opened in 2019 after a comprehensive restoration, the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo is now unmissable. It holds a vast array of statuary from the Duomo and Baptistry, plus ecclesiastical finery, paintings and other miscellaneous pieces. Highlights include:

• The extraordinary bronze doors made for the Duomo by Bonanno Pisano (first architect of the Leaning Tower) in 1180,
• Giovanni Pisano’s affecting Madonna del Colloquio (Madonna of the Conversation), so-called because of the intensity of the gazes exchanged by the Madonna and Child.

On the south side of the Campo, the only gap in the souvenir stalls is for the Museo delle Sinopie.

After the bomb damage wreaked on the Camposanto, restorers removed its sinopie (the sketches over which frescoes are painted) and these great plates of plaster now hang from the walls of this high-tech museum.

#6 Take in Pisa’s best piazzas

If you have time for a wider exploration of the city, head first for Piazza dei Cavalieri, the central civic square of medieval Pisa, which opens unexpectedly from the narrow backstreets to the southeast of the Campo.

Covered in monochrome sgraffiti and topped with busts of the Medici, the Palazzo dei Cavalieri is next to the church of Santo Stefano, which still houses banners captured from Turkish ships by the Knights of St Stephen – a grand title for a gang of state-sponsored pirates.

From here Via Dini heads east to the arcaded Borgo Stretto, Pisa’s smartest street. Pisa’s market area is west of here, on Piazza Vettovaglie and the narrow streets that surround it. The Borgo meets the river at Piazza Garibaldi, at the foot of the Ponte di Mezzo.

Beautiful building of University on Piazza dei Cavalieri in Pisa, Tuscany - Italy © Shutterstock

#7 See some of Pisa’s best paintings at Museo Nazionale di San Matteo

East of Piazza Garibaldi, by the river, is the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo, where most of the major works of art from Pisa’s churches are now gathered. Best of the paintings are polyptychs by Simone Martini and Francesco Traini, a panel of St Paul by Masaccio, Gentile da Fabriano’s Madonna of Humility and a trio of works by Gozzoli.

Among the sculptures, two masterpieces stand out – Donatello’s reliquary bust of the introspective St Rossore, and Andrea and Nino Pisano’s Madonna del Latte. The latter is a touchingly crafted work showing Mary breastfeeding the baby Jesus. The museum also has a stash of fine Middle Eastern ceramics pilfered by Pisan adventurers.

#8 See artefacts at the Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Reale

The Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Reale displays artefacts that once belonged to the Medici, Lorraine and Savoy rulers of the city, who successively occupied the house.

Lavish sixteenth-century Flemish tapestries share space with antique weaponry, ivory miniatures, porcelain and a largely undistinguished picture collection. The best-known painting, a version of Bronzino’s portrait of Eleanora di Toledo, is displayed alongside a dress that belonged to her.

#9 See the oldest Roman warship ever at the Arsenale Mediceo

West along the river from the Palazzo Reale lies the Arsenale Mediceo. Built by Cosimo I, it is being converted into the Museo delle Navi Romane, which will house the sixteen Roman ships that have been excavated since 1998 from the silt at nearby San Rossore.

Almost perfectly preserved in mud for two millennia, the cargo-laden fleet includes what experts believe could be the oldest Roman warship ever found.

View of the Arsenale Mediceo (the Medici shipyard) Pisa, Tuscany, Italy © Shutterstock

#10 Seek out great regional art at the Palazzo Blu

On the south bank of the river, west of the Ponte di Mezzo, the line of palazzi is enlivened by the brightly-hued Palazzo Blu. It holds a permanent collection of regional art from the fourteenth to the twentieth centuries, as well as occasional big-name exhibitions on the ground floor.

#11 Visit the Santa Maria della Spina

West from the Palazzo Blu, just before the Ponte Solferino, is the oratory of Santa Maria della Spina. Founded in 1230 but rebuilt in the 1320s by a merchant who had acquired one of the thorns (spine) of Christ’s crown, this effervescent little church is the finest flourish of Pisan-Gothic.

Originally built closer to the water, it was moved here for fear of floods in 1871. The single-naved interior has lost most of its furnishings, but contains a trio of statues by Andrea and Nino Pisano.

Gothic church Santa Maria della Spina on the embankment of the Arno River © Shutterstock

#12 Head to Elba

Nearly 30km long by some 20km wide, Elba is Italy’s third-largest island. Ever since Napoleon was exiled here, it has been captivating visitors.

It has exceptionally clear water, fine white-sand beaches, and a lush, wooded interior, superb for walking; almost everyone, including a surge of package tourists in July and August, comes for the beach resorts, so the inland villages remain largely quiet even in high season.

Historically, Elba has been well out of the mainstream. The principal industry until World War II was mining, especially of iron ore. The Romans wrote of “the island of good wines” – a reputation Elban wines retain to this day – while control in later centuries passed from Pisa to Genoa and on to the Medici, Spain, Turkey and finally France.

That cosmopolitan mix has left its legacy on both architecture and cultivation. Most people know the island as the place of exile for Napoleon, who, after he was banished here in May 1814, revamped education and the legal system, built roads and modernized the economy before escaping back to France in February 1815.

View of Portoferraio on Elba Island, Italy © Shutterstock

Elba’s best beaches

No fewer than 156 beaches dot Elba’s rocky coast, from little-visited shingly coves to broad white sand stretches.

The island’s best-known beaches can become packed in high season, but if you don’t mind negotiating the ranks of baking bodies on sunloungers, they offer all the facilities you could wish for, from snack bars to diving centres.

The big five are fine-sand Procchio; Fetovaia, with its crystal-clear water; beautiful Cavoli, a sandy arc in a sheltered bay where you can swim well out of season; Marina di Campo, a full-blown resort; and Biodola, occupying an idyllic sweeping bay near Portoferraio.

To avoid the worst of the crowds, however, head to one of the beaches below.

Acquavivetta

Not far from Sansone, this shingly beach is backed by high rocks. The gently sloping seashore makes it a good spot for swimming, especially if you have kids in tow.

Reachable from the beach at Sant’Andrea, this small patch of sandy beach has a natural pool of clear, shallow water formed by two tongues of rock.

In the bay of Biodola, sandy Forno is less busy than Biodola beach itself, set in a lovely little bay, surrounded by villas and dense vegetation. There’s a restaurant here (though it’s the island’s most expensive), as well as snack bars.

Also known as La Polveraia, this sheltered shingly beach on the island’s western coast is always fairly quiet, even in high season. The dark rocks here plunge sheer to the transparent water below.

A dazzling stretch of shingle, enclosed by sheer white cliffs and lapped by clear water.

Sant’Andrea

A lovely, fine sand beach, well set up with sun loungers, parasols and beach bars. A natural rocky barrier keeps the water shallow, and you can rent boats, windsurf and dive here too.

#13 Parco Nazionale dell’Arcipelago Toscano

All seven Tuscan Islands, and the seas around them, form the Parco Nazionale dell’Arcipelago Toscano, the largest protected marine park in Europe.

You can take a ferry from Portoferraio or Porto Azzurro to various smaller islands, and from Marina di Campo in the south you can visit the beautiful island of Pianosa, an uninhabited former military base, with great beaches and abundant wildlife.

See parks.it and islepark.it for further information.

Capraia Island, Arcipelago Toscano National Park, Tuscany, Italy © Shutterstock

From the bustling Piazza dei Miracoli to the charming streets of Sant'Antonio and Borgo Stretto, Pisa offers a range of neighbourhoods to stay .

Piazza dei Miracoli is the heart of Pisa and home to the famous Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery. This is where you’ll find the best properties .

Located just south of the Piazza dei Miracoli, Sant'Antonio offers a quieter and more residential atmosphere while still being within walking distance of the main sights.

Located southwest of the Piazza dei Miracoli, San Francesco is a neighbourhood with a relaxed atmosphere. It's close to the Arno River and has some beautiful churches. It's a bit removed from the tourist crowds but still within a reasonable walking distance from the main attractions.

Situated on the eastern side of the city centre, Santa Maria is known for its picturesque streets, charming squares, and local markets. It offers a more authentic Pisan experience, with fewer tourists and some good guesthouses.

Browse the best hotels in Pisa.

San Matteo museum, wood sculptures room © Shutterstock

During Pisa’s Golden Age, from the eleventh to the thirteenth centuries, the city was one of the maritime powers of the Mediterranean. Decline set in with defeat by the Genoese in 1284, followed by the silting-up of Pisa's harbour.

From 1406, the city was governed by Florence , whose rulers re-established the University of Pisa. As one of the great intellectual establishments of the Renaissance, Galileo was a teacher here.

Subsequent centuries saw Pisa fade into provinciality, though landmarks from its glory days now bring in hundreds of thousands of visitors a year.

Pisa’s proximity to the coast means that seafood is served in most restaurants, with baccalà alla Pisana (salt cod in tomato sauce) and pesce spada (swordfish) featuring prominently. Nearly all menus have two sections, labelled “mare” (for fish) and “terra” (for meat).

Avoid the temptation to eat in the vicinity of the Campo dei Miracoli – aimed squarely at the tourist trade, these places are generally of poor quality. Here’s where to eat.

Pisa’s lively student population means there are plenty of cheap eateries and bars around Piazza Dante and Piazza delle Vettovaglie.

There are plenty of good quality places to eat between Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza Cairoli.

From buses to bicycles, it is easy to get around Pisa. Here’s how to do it.

Pisa has an extensive bus network operated by the Compagnia Pisana Trasporti (CPT). Buses serve both the city centre and the surrounding areas, including the airport.

Pisa is a compact city, and many of its popular attractions are located within a short distance of each other. Pisa has excellent train connections, making it easy to explore other cities in Tuscany and beyond. The main train station, Pisa Centrale, is centrally located and serves both regional and high-speed trains.

Pisa is a bike-friendly city, and renting a bicycle can be a fun and eco-friendly way to get around. There are several bike rental shops in the city centre, and Pisa has dedicated bike lanes and paths to facilitate cycling. Taxis are available throughout the city, and you can easily find them at designated taxi stands or hail one on the street. Taxis in Pisa operate on a metered system.

Palazzo Blu is a centre for temporary exhibitions and cultural activities© Shutterstock

Spring (April to June) is a popular time to visit Pisa, as the weather is mild and pleasant. The temperatures are generally comfortable, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid large crowds, although there may still be moderate tourist activity.

Summer (July to August) in Pisa can be very hot, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). This is the peak tourist season, with larger crowds and longer queues at popular attractions like the Leaning Tower.

Autumn (September to October) brings pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) and fewer tourists compared to the summer months.

Winter (November to February) in Pisa is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). While it's the off-season, you can still enjoy the city's attractions without the crowds.

Find out more about the best time to visit Italy .

A day trip can be sufficient for Pisa. This allows you to see the iconic Leaning Tower, explore the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), visit the Cathedral and Baptistery, and stroll through the charming streets of the city centre.

If you have a couple of days, you can have a more leisurely experience here. You'll have enough time to explore the main attractions, soak in the atmosphere of the city, and also venture beyond the Piazza dei Miracoli. You can visit other notable sites like the Palazzo Blu, Museo di San Matteo, or take a walk along the River Arno.

Pisa’s Galileo Galilei airport lies about 3 km south of the city centre. The automated Pisa Mover ra il shuttle to Pisa Centrale station runs every 5–8min, from 6 am to midnight every day; the journey takes little more than 5 min.

An alternative to the Pisa Mover is the cheaper but rather less frequent LAM Rossa city bus, which takes about 10 min to reach Pisa Centrale; it leaves from in front of the Arrivals Hall.

The Airport Bus Express runs regularly to Florence and takes an hour, if traffic is light; at busy times it can take 1hr 30min. The ticket office and bus stand are to the right as you come out of arrival.

The drive to Florence is straightforward (a slip road takes you directly onto the motorway), but the road into Pisa is so confusing that, without directions from the car-rental desk, you may well end up getting lost.

Pisa Centrale train station is about 1 km south of the River Arno; the Campo dei Miracoli is about a 30min walk north, or a 5 min ride on bus #1, which leaves from outside the station.

The main bus terminus is Piazza Sant’Antonio, in front of the train station

Find out the best ways to get to Italy .

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A Guide To Pisa, Italy—including That Leaning Tower

Published: September 7, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Mina Kean

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Introduction

Welcome to Pisa, the charming city located in the Tuscany region of Italy. Famous for its iconic leaning tower, Pisa offers visitors a delightful mix of history, culture, and breathtaking architecture.

With its origins dating back to ancient times, Pisa has a rich and fascinating history that stretches over centuries. This can be seen in its diverse architectural styles, from Romanesque to Gothic, Renaissance to Baroque. As you wander through the narrow streets and squares, you’ll be transported back in time, mesmerized by the beauty that surrounds you.

The undeniable highlight of Pisa is the Leaning Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a global icon. Its distinctive tilt has intrigued visitors for generations, drawing millions of people from all over the world to marvel at its unique design and engineering feat. But Pisa has so much more to offer than just the leaning tower.

Immerse yourself in the history of Pisa by exploring its many other architectural treasures, such as the Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery. Admire the intricate details of these magnificent structures and learn about the city’s religious and cultural significance.

But Pisa isn’t all about history and architecture. The city also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums and galleries that showcase art and artifacts from various periods. From the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, which houses sculptures and artworks from the cathedral, to the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo, which exhibits medieval and Renaissance art, there is something to captivate every art enthusiast.

And let’s not forget about the culinary delights that await you in Pisa. Indulge your taste buds with traditional Tuscan cuisine, known for its simple yet flavorful dishes. From the world-famous Tuscan bread to delectable pastas, fresh seafood, and local wines, Pisa is a gastronomic paradise.

After satisfying your appetite, take some time to explore Pisa’s charming streets lined with boutiques, artisan shops, and bustling markets. Whether you’re in search of fashion, souvenirs, or local handicrafts, you’ll find plenty of options to indulge in some retail therapy.

With its unique blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and shopping, Pisa promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on an enchanting journey through this remarkable city.

History of Pisa

The history of Pisa dates back to ancient times, with evidence of settlements in the area as early as the 5th century BC. Originally a Roman colony, Pisa flourished as a maritime power during the Middle Ages, expanding its influence along the Mediterranean Sea.

During the 11th and 12th centuries, Pisa experienced its golden age. The city established itself as a major trading hub and a powerful naval force, dominating the seas with its fleet of ships. This prosperity allowed Pisa to construct magnificent structures, showcasing its wealth and architectural prowess.

One of the most famous and striking examples of Pisa’s architectural achievements is the Leaning Tower, also known as the Torre Pendente. Construction on the tower began in 1173 and was intended to be a bell tower for the adjacent Pisa Cathedral. However, due to its unstable foundation, the tower began to lean during construction, leading to its iconic tilt.

Throughout the centuries, Pisa faced both periods of glory and challenges. The city went through a decline in the 14th century due to a series of military defeats and the silting up of its harbor. It was also affected by the Black Death pandemic, which significantly diminished its population.

In the following centuries, Pisa became part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany under the Medici family and later the Kingdom of Italy. Despite its turbulent history, the city managed to preserve its architectural treasures, with many structures, including the Leaning Tower, undergoing restoration and preservation efforts.

Today, Pisa attracts millions of visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its architectural wonders and immerse themselves in its rich history. The city’s historic center, with its unique collection of Romanesque and Gothic buildings, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, which further highlights the significance of Pisa’s cultural heritage.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply curious about the past, Pisa invites you to step back in time and uncover its fascinating history. Explore the cobblestone streets, admire the magnificent buildings, and discover the stories that have shaped this captivating city.

Getting to Pisa

Getting to Pisa is relatively easy, thanks to its well-connected transportation network. Whether you’re traveling by air, train, or car, there are several options to choose from.

If you’re coming from abroad, the most convenient way to reach Pisa is by flying into the Pisa International Airport, also known as Galileo Galilei Airport. It is one of the busiest airports in Italy and is served by many international and domestic airlines. From the airport, you can take a bus, taxi, or train to the city center, which is located just a few kilometers away.

If you prefer to travel by train, Pisa has excellent rail connections with major cities in Italy and Europe. The Pisa Centrale train station is the main railway hub, offering frequent services to Florence, Rome, Milan, and other destinations. High-speed trains, such as the Frecciarossa and Italo, make it convenient to travel to Pisa from various parts of Italy.

For those driving to Pisa, the city is well-connected to the Italian highway network. The A11 and A12 highways both pass through Pisa, making it easily accessible by car. However, it’s worth noting that parking can be limited in the city center, so it’s advisable to check with your accommodation for parking facilities or use one of the public parking areas on the outskirts of the city.

Once you’ve arrived in Pisa, getting around the city is relatively straightforward. The historic center is compact and best explored on foot. Walking allows you to fully immerse yourself in the charm of the city and discover its hidden gems.

If you prefer a faster mode of transportation, you can also rent a bicycle or scooter to navigate the city’s streets. Pisa has a well-developed cycling infrastructure, and many rental shops are available, allowing you to easily explore the city at your own pace.

If you need to travel to specific locations in Pisa or visit nearby attractions, the city has an efficient public transportation system. Buses operate throughout the city, connecting various neighborhoods and important landmarks. Tickets can be purchased at authorized vendors or onboard the bus.

Getting to Pisa is just the beginning of your adventure in this captivating city. So, whether you choose to fly, take the train, or drive, get ready to be enchanted by the beauty and history that awaits you in Pisa.

Exploring the Leaning Tower of Pisa

No visit to Pisa is complete without exploring its most iconic landmark, the Leaning Tower. Located in the famous Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), this architectural marvel attracts millions of visitors from around the world.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa, also known as the Torre Pendente, is a bell tower that was intended to be vertical but acquired its signature tilt during construction. Despite its lean, the tower has stood the test of time and continues to captivate visitors with its unique design.

As you approach the tower, you’ll immediately notice its striking lean, which is caused by the uneven settle of the ground beneath it. It’s truly a sight to behold and makes for fantastic photo opportunities.

To climb to the top of the tower, you’ll need to purchase a ticket. It’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, as only a limited number of people are allowed to ascend the tower at a time. The climb may be a bit challenging, as the stairs are narrow and spiral, but the reward is well worth it.

As you ascend the tower, you’ll feel the lean more prominently, creating a unique and slightly surreal experience. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Pisa and the surrounding countryside. It’s a breathtaking sight that will leave you in awe.

Inside the tower, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn about its history and the efforts made to stabilize and preserve it. Interactive exhibits and displays provide fascinating insights into the tower’s construction, engineering challenges, and ongoing maintenance.

Aside from the tower itself, the Piazza dei Miracoli is home to other remarkable structures that should not be missed. The Pisa Cathedral, with its ornate facade and stunning interior, is a masterful example of Romanesque architecture. The Baptistery, a circular building with beautiful arched galleries, is another must-visit attraction in the square.

While exploring the Leaning Tower and the surrounding area, take your time to soak up the atmosphere of this historic place. Admire the intricate details of the architecture, marvel at the impressive craftsmanship, and imagine the stories that these structures hold.

Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a truly unique experience that allows you to witness a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. So be sure to include this world-famous landmark on your itinerary and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Other attractions in Pisa

While the Leaning Tower of Pisa may be the city’s most famous attraction, there is so much more to see and do in this enchanting city. Here are some of the other must-visit attractions in Pisa:

Pisa Cathedral: Located in the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Pisa Cathedral, also known as the Duomo di Pisa, is a stunning masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. Its intricate facade, adorned with marble columns and sculptures, is a sight to behold. Step inside to admire the ornate interior, with its beautiful frescoes and intricate mosaics.

Baptistery: Adjacent to the cathedral, the Baptistery is a circular building with a magnificent dome and striking arched galleries. Explore its interior and take in the acoustics by standing in the center and experiencing the echo effect that makes it famous.

Palazzo della Carovana: This impressive palace is part of the renowned University of Pisa and features a stunning facade adorned with intricate sculptures and reliefs. Take a stroll through the courtyard and admire the grandeur of this architectural gem.

Church of Santa Maria della Spina: Situated on the banks of the Arno River, this small Gothic church is a hidden gem in Pisa. Admire its intricate spires and delicate decorations, and learn about the legend behind its name.

Palazzo Blu: If you’re an art lover, a visit to Palazzo Blu is a must. This historic building hosts a range of rotating art exhibitions, showcasing works by renowned artists from around the world. Immerse yourself in the world of art and culture as you explore the galleries of this unique venue.

Church of San Michele in Borgo: This Romanesque church is located in the charming Borgo Stretto neighborhood. Step inside to admire its beautiful interior, adorned with stunning frescoes and intricate sculptures.

Botanical Gardens: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in the peaceful surroundings of the Pisa Botanical Gardens. This green oasis offers a variety of plant species, including exotic plants, flowers, and trees, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

These are just a few of the many attractions that Pisa has to offer. So, while you’re visiting the Leaning Tower, make sure to explore the rich history, art, and culture that permeate every corner of this remarkable city.

Museums in Pisa

Pisa is not only famous for its architectural wonders, but also for its impressive collection of museums that showcase the city’s rich history, art, and culture. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the past, Pisa’s museums offer a wealth of fascinating exhibits and artifacts. Here are some of the must-visit museums in Pisa:

Museo dell’Opera del Duomo: Located near the Leaning Tower, this museum houses a superb collection of sculptures and artworks that were originally part of the Pisa Cathedral and its Baptistery. Admire masterpieces by renowned artists like Nicola Pisano and Giovanni Pisano, and learn about the history and significance of these iconic structures.

Museo Nazionale di San Matteo: Housed in a former Benedictine convent, this museum is home to a remarkable collection of medieval and Renaissance art. Admire exquisite paintings, sculptures, and illuminated manuscripts, including works by famous artists like Simone Martini and Andrea Pisano.

Pisa Charterhouse: Located just outside the city center, the Pisa Charterhouse is a former Carthusian monastery that now houses the National Museum of San Rossore. Explore the impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance art, including paintings, sculptures, and religious artifacts.

Museum of Ancient Ships: Situated near the Arno River, this unique museum showcases ancient Roman ships that were discovered during excavations. Marvel at the superb preservation of these vessels and learn about their historical significance in the maritime history of Pisa.

Pisa Arsenal Museum: Discover the naval history of Pisa at the Arsenal Museum, which is located in the historic Medici Arsenal building. Explore the displays of ancient weapons, shipbuilding tools, and maritime artifacts, and gain insights into the city’s maritime history and naval power.

Museum of Graphics of Palazzo Lanfranchi: Art lovers will appreciate this museum’s impressive collection of prints and graphic artworks. With works spanning from the Middle Ages to the contemporary era, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of printmaking techniques and the art of reproducing images.

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of museums that Pisa has to offer. Whichever museum you choose to visit, you’ll have the opportunity to delve into Pisa’s past and gain a deeper understanding of its cultural heritage. So make sure to include a visit to one or more of these museums in your itinerary for a truly enriching experience.

Dining and Cuisine in Pisa

Pisa is not just a city of architectural wonders; it’s also a paradise for food lovers. The city’s culinary scene offers a delightful array of traditional Tuscan dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Here are some highlights of the dining and cuisine in Pisa:

Tuscan Cuisine: The cuisine of Pisa, like the rest of Tuscany, is known for its simplicity and emphasis on high-quality ingredients. Tuscan cuisine features hearty dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as fresh vegetables, flavorful olive oil, succulent meats, and aromatic herbs. Taste traditional Tuscan recipes, like the famous “panzanella” salad made with stale bread and tomatoes, or “ribollita,” a comforting vegetable and bread soup.

Seafood Delicacies: With its proximity to the coast, Pisa offers an abundance of fresh seafood dishes. Indulge in a plate of “cacciucco,” a rich fish stew packed with a variety of seafood, or savor the flavors of grilled or fried fish, such as “fritto misto di mare” or “pesce alla livornese.” Pair your seafood meal with a glass of local white wine for the perfect coastal dining experience.

Pisa’s Baked Goods: No visit to Pisa is complete without trying some of the city’s mouthwatering baked goods. Sample “schiacciata,” a savory flatbread topped with olive oil and coarse salt, or “torta coi bischeri,” a delicious almond and pine nut tart. And don’t forget to indulge in “biscotti di Prato,” crunchy almond biscuits that pair perfectly with a cup of espresso.

Wine Tasting: Pisa is located in the heart of Tuscany, renowned for its excellent wines. Take advantage of your visit to indulge in a wine tasting experience. Visit local wineries and vineyards to sample a variety of Tuscan wines, such as Chianti, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, or Brunello di Montalcino. Learn about the winemaking process and enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Tuscan countryside.

Local Food Markets: Immerse yourself in the local food culture by visiting Pisa’s vibrant food markets. Explore the Mercato delle Vettovaglie, where you can find a plethora of fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal products. Engage with local vendors, sample their products, and discover the flavors of Pisa’s regional specialties.

Pisa offers a wealth of culinary delights that will satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Tuscan cuisine, seafood delicacies, or exploring local food markets, the diverse gastronomic scene of Pisa will leave you with unforgettable dining experiences. So be sure to indulge in the local flavors and savor the tastes of this remarkable city.

Shopping in Pisa

When it comes to shopping, Pisa has something for everyone. From upscale boutiques to traditional artisan shops, the city offers a variety of options for those looking to indulge in a retail therapy experience. Here’s a glimpse into the shopping scene in Pisa:

Corso Italia: Considered the main shopping street in Pisa, Corso Italia is a bustling thoroughfare lined with fashion boutiques, upscale shops, and international brands. Stroll along this elegant street and discover the latest fashion trends, designer labels, and stylish accessories.

Borgo Stretto: Located in the heart of the historic center, Borgo Stretto is a charming street adorned with boutique shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Get lost in its narrow alleys and explore the local shops, where you can find unique clothing items, handmade jewelry, and artisanal products.

Open-air Markets: Pisa is known for its lively open-air markets, where you can find a variety of goods, from fresh produce to clothing and household items. Visit the Mercato delle Vettovaglie to experience a traditional food market, where you can buy local cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and vegetables. Don’t miss the weekly market at Piazza dei Cavalieri, offering a mix of clothing, accessories, and household items.

Local Artisan Shops: Pisa is home to many talented artisans who create unique handmade products. Visit artisan shops to find one-of-a-kind items, such as pottery, leather goods, jewelry, and inspired artworks. Take home a piece of Pisa’s craftsmanship and support local artisans who keep traditional techniques alive.

Pisan Souvenirs: No trip is complete without grabbing some souvenirs to remember your visit to Pisa. Look for miniature replicas of the Leaning Tower, keychains, magnets, and other trinkets that you can find in souvenir shops throughout the city. Be sure to choose authentic souvenirs that represent the spirit and culture of Pisa.

Bookstores: If you’re a book lover, Pisa has several bookstores where you can browse through a selection of books in both Italian and English. Explore independent bookshops and discover new reads, travel guides, and books on art, history, and culture.

Whether you’re in search of high-end fashion, unique handmade crafts, or unforgettable souvenirs, Pisa has a shopping experience to suit every taste. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the shopping streets, explore local markets, and bring home a piece of Pisa to cherish.

Accommodation options in Pisa

Pisa offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly hostels, the city has something to accommodate your needs. Here are some of the accommodation options in Pisa:

Luxury Hotels: Pisa boasts several luxury hotels that provide top-notch amenities and impeccable service. These hotels are often located in historic buildings or picturesque settings, offering stunning views of the city or the surrounding countryside. Enjoy spacious rooms, fine dining restaurants, spa facilities, and personalized attention during your stay.

Boutique Hotels: For those seeking a more intimate and unique experience, boutique hotels in Pisa are the perfect choice. These hotels often combine modern comforts with traditional charm and are characterized by their personalized service and attention to detail. Many boutique hotels are located in historic buildings, providing a sense of authenticity and a truly memorable stay.

Bed and Breakfasts: Pisa is home to a range of charming bed and breakfasts, offering cozy accommodations and a homely atmosphere. Stay in family-run establishments and enjoy a warm welcome, comfortable rooms, and a delicious breakfast to start your day. Bed and breakfasts often provide a more personal touch, with hosts who can offer insider tips and suggestions for exploring the city.

Guesthouses: Guesthouses in Pisa provide affordable yet comfortable accommodations. These establishments offer private rooms with shared facilities, allowing travelers to enjoy a more budget-friendly stay without sacrificing comfort. Guesthouses are an excellent option for those looking for a simple and cozy place to rest after a day of sightseeing.

Hostels: Pisa has a number of hostels that cater to budget-conscious travelers and backpackers. Hostels provide dormitory-style accommodations with shared facilities, making them an affordable option for solo travelers or groups. Many hostels also offer communal spaces, kitchens, and organized activities, providing opportunities to meet fellow travelers.

Apartment Rentals: If you prefer a more independent stay, Pisa offers a range of apartment rentals. These self-catering accommodations give you the freedom to have your own space and prepare your meals. Renting an apartment is ideal for families, groups, or those planning an extended stay in the city.

When choosing accommodation in Pisa, consider factors such as location, amenities, and budget. The city center is a popular area to stay, as it provides easy access to major attractions and a vibrant atmosphere. However, there are also options available in quieter residential areas if you prefer a more peaceful stay.

No matter your accommodation choice, Pisa’s warm hospitality and charm will make your stay a memorable one. Plan ahead, book early, and enjoy your time in this captivating city.

Practical information for visiting Pisa

Before your trip to Pisa, it’s helpful to have some practical information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. From transportation to safety tips, here are some key things to keep in mind:

Getting Around: Pisa’s historic center is best explored on foot, as most attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you need to travel to specific locations or venture outside the city center, Pisa has a reliable public transportation system. Buses operate throughout the city, and tickets can be purchased at authorized vendors or onboard the bus.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Pisa is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. Avoid the peak summer months when temperatures can be high, and tourist crowds are at their peak.

Entry Requirements: Make sure to check the entry requirements for Italy before your visit. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

Currency and Payments: The currency in Italy is the Euro (€). Ensure that you have enough cash on hand for small purchases and places that may not accept cards. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street markets.

Safety: Pisa is generally a safe city, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and be aware of your surroundings. It’s also advisable to have a copy of your important documents, such as your passport and travel insurance, stored in a safe place.

Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette to ensure a respectful visit. Italians value politeness and manners, so saying “please” (per favore) and “thank you” (grazie) goes a long way. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering shoulders and knees.

Language: The official language in Pisa is Italian. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Italian phrases or carry a phrasebook to enhance communication and show respect for the local culture.

Emergency Numbers: In case of an emergency, dial 112 for general emergencies or 113 for police assistance in Italy. Make sure to have these numbers readily accessible along with the address and phone number of your accommodation.

Tourist Information: Visit the local tourist information center, conveniently located in the city center, for maps, brochures, and guidance on the best places to visit. They can also provide information on guided tours, events, and any current promotions.

By keeping these practical tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your visit to Pisa. Embrace the rich history, culinary delights, and architectural wonders of this captivating city and create lasting memories of your time in Pisa.

Pisa, with its iconic Leaning Tower and rich cultural heritage, offers a captivating experience for visitors from around the world. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be enchanted by the city’s historic charm, breathtaking architecture, and warm hospitality.

Exploring the Leaning Tower is a must-do, immersing yourself in its fascinating history and admiring the panoramic views from the top. But Pisa has much more to offer beyond its famous landmark. Walk the ancient streets, visit the stunning cathedral and baptistery, and discover hidden gems such as the Pisa Charterhouse and the Church of Santa Maria della Spina.

Immerse yourself in Pisa’s vibrant cultural scene by visiting its impressive museums, where you can admire art and artifacts spanning centuries. Indulge in traditional Tuscan cuisine, savor the flavors of fresh seafood, and explore the local food markets to get a taste of authentic Pisan flavors.

Take time to stroll through the streets of Pisa, where you’ll find boutique shops, artisanal crafts, and bustling markets. And when it’s time to rest, choose from a range of accommodations catering to every budget, from luxury hotels to charming bed and breakfasts.

Remember to plan your visit in advance, take note of practical information such as transportation options and safety tips, and respect local customs and etiquette. By doing so, you’ll maximize your enjoyment and make the most of your time in this marvelous city.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, a foodie, or simply seeking an enchanting getaway, Pisa offers a truly memorable experience. So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this remarkable city, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Pisa: 4 Days of Leaning Towers, Pizza, and Gelato

Lean into the beauty of pisa, italy..

28 August 2023

A trip to Pisa, Italy as a tourist promises a perfect blend of history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. Known worldwide for its iconic Leaning Tower, Pisa offers an array of attractions including the Piazza dei Miracoli, where visitors can stroll amidst beautifully adorned cathedrals and baptistries. Additionally, exploring the picturesque streets lined with colorful buildings and trying a tantalizing slice of pizza or gelato completes the unforgettable experience of this enchanting Tuscan city.

Travel plan

Arrival and tower pursuit:.

• Check into the charming Hotel Relais dei Fiori, boasting a rustic Tuscan atmosphere.
• Embark on an epic quest to find the Leaning Tower, snap cliché but mandatory photos, and giggle at the wonky architecture.
• Stroll along the lively streets of Borgo Stretto, lined with fashionable boutiques and tantalizing gelato shops.
• Wine and dine at Ristoro Pecorino, where plates of heavenly pasta are paired with quirky anecdotes from the charming staff.
• Get lost in the vibrancy of Pisa's nightlife at Piazza delle Vettovaglie, sipping Aperol Spritz under lively fairy lights.

Unveiling Artistry:

• Awaken your artistic sensibilities at the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, housing exquisite religious artifacts.
• Discover the hidden gems at Palazzo Blu, an art gallery where Leonardo da Vinci's genius intertwines with modern masterpieces.
• Bask in the graceful elegance of the Palazzo Reale, a treasure trove of magnificent frescoes and opulent gardens.
• For lunch, treat your taste buds to the imaginative flavors of Trattoria di Galileo, where culinary art meets traditional Tuscan fare.
• Explore Piazza dei Cavalieri, an enchanting square showcasing stunning medieval architecture and a rich historical pedigree.

A Tasty Tuscan Day:

• Journey to the colorful Mercato delle Vettovaglie, indulging in a cacophony of flavors: tangy pecorino cheese, succulent olives, and heavenly Tuscan wine.
• Allow your taste buds to dance at Osteria de' Scali, where Pisan specialties like cecina and baccalà enchant every bite.
• Wander through the tranquil Giardino Scotto, a verdant oasis where the luscious scent of flowers dances on the breeze.
• Dive into the local food culture at Latteria di Lorenza, a cozy dairy shop serving delightful cheese tastings and creamy, homemade gelato.
• Seek out bustling cafes in Piazza dei Miracoli, sip aromatic espresso, and savor freshly baked pastries while marveling at Pisa's architectural icons.

Secrets of Pisa's Surroundings:

• Enchant your senses with a visit to the enchanting seaside town of Marina di Pisa, where colorful beach huts line the golden coast.
• Explore the mysteries of the Roman ruins at the ancient city of Lucca, with its charming cobblestone streets and quaint shops.
• Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along Lucca's medieval city walls, relishing panoramic views of the picturesque Tuscan countryside.
• Savor a leisurely lunch at Osteria San Giorgio, an intimate hideaway renowned for its delectable seafood dishes and warm, rustic ambiance.
• Toast to a memorable Pisan adventure at Enoteca Bacchus, a wine bar with an extensive selection of regional wines, all poured with flair and expertise.

Outbound Fri, 23 Aug 2023

Return sun, 25 aug 2023, length of stay, type of trip, how to get there.

The best way to get to Pisa, Italy by plane is to fly into Pisa International Airport (PSA) from your departing city.

Driving to Pisa is convenient as it is well-connected by highways. You can reach Pisa by car by taking the A11 or A12 highway, depending on your starting location.

To get to Pisa by train, you can take a train to Pisa Centrale railway station, which is the main station in the city.

Although Pisa is located inland, it is not accessible by boat as it does not have a direct connection to the sea.

If you prefer to travel by bus, you can take a coach to Pisa from various cities across Italy. The main bus station in Pisa is Pisa Autostazione.

Destination

Welcome to a city famous for its leaning tower and the fantastic art that draws crowds from all over the world. If balance isn't your strong suit, don't worry, Pisa just leans towards embracing your quirks!

Number of days

More travel plans, pisa palooza: a budget-friendly 4-day adventure.

A trip to Pisa on a limited budget offers the opportunity to explore the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli, which houses the Baptistery and the Cathedral of Pisa. To save money, try staying in budget accommodations, opting for affordable local eateries, and taking advantage of free walking tours to experience the charm of Pisa on a tight budget.

Pisa: Tilt Your World - A Day Trip Guide

A trip to Pisa, Italy as a tourist is an opportunity to marvel at the breathtaking Leaning Tower of Pisa, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its iconic tilt. Visitors can explore the grand Piazza dei Miracoli, home to not only the Leaning Tower but also the magnificent Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery. Beyond the architectural wonders, the charming city offers picturesque streets, delicious Tuscan cuisine, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Pisa in 3 Days: Leaning Marvels, Time Travel & Delights

A trip to Pisa, Italy on a limited budget offers a chance to explore the city's iconic attraction: the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Arno River and explore the historic Piazza dei Miracoli. Take advantage of affordable local eateries and budget-friendly accommodations to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

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PISA TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: Explore top attractions, best activities, itinerary, insider tips, landmarks, Arno River italy, leaning tower of pisa. Kindle Edition

Want to see the finest of pisa within a budget that won't affect your bank alright tonia b. jefferies, a seasonal travel guide author, has something for you.

With the aid of the Pisa travel guide 2024, written for astute travelers looking for both value and life changing experiences, set out on a cost effective journey through the charming alleys of Pisa.

Uncover hidden jewels and riches waiting to be discovered off the usual route as you explore the mysteries of this famous Italian city beyond the leaning tower. Explore the local way of life at Piazza delle Vettovaglie, where vibrant markets provide a feast for the senses with reasonably priced fresh produce and handcrafted products.

In search of a weekend escape? Get away from the throngs of tourists and visit the quaint villages of Lucca and Livorno, which are close by. There, you can wander along historic walls, savor seafood, and experience real Tuscan living.

You'll see the greatest sites, museums, and attractions in Pisa with a carefully planned 7 day itinerary that also allows for unforeseen surprises. A fresh adventure awaits you every day, whether it's in the lively streets of Borgo Stretto or the grand Piazza dei Miracoli.

For those who love the outdoors, go on your hiking boots and discover Monte Pisano's magnificent routes, which provide lush forests and expansive vistas atop craggy summits. Every explorer can find something to appreciate on this road, regardless of experience level. The Pisa travel guide 2024 provides all you need, whether traveling alone, with a group, or with your family.

You may satiate your appetites without breaking the bank with everything from crispy paninis loaded with regional specialties to delicious gelato available in a rainbow of flavors.

When it's time to crash, our book has plenty of suggestions for affordable lodging, from quaint hostels to quaint guesthouses, so you can enjoy a nice stay without breaking the bank.

The advantages of adhering to Tonia B. Jefferies' Pisa travel guide for 2024

• Save Money: This Pisa travel guide is designed with budget travelers in mind, so you can get the most out of your money while visiting this stunning city.
• Insider Tips: Learn about hidden treasures off the beaten path and improve your experience by having access to insider information and local secrets.
• Efficient schedule: Make the most of your time in Pisa by planning a carefully thought out seven day schedule or weekend getaway, that will guarantee you see all the must-see sights without feeling hurried.
• Off the Beaten Path Adventures: Venture past the famous leaning tower to find enchanting parks, residential areas, and cozy cafes that are sometimes missed by tourists.
• Inexpensive Lodging Options: Look for reasonably priced lodging that meets your needs without sacrificing comfort or quality. After a long day of exploring, there are choices for house sitting and couchsurfing to guarantee a good night's sleep.
• Local Cuisine: Savor the flavors of Tuscany without going over budget by sampling delectable street cuisine and traditional dishes at reasonable costs.

Don't let a tight budget prevent you from taking in Pisa's attractions. Obtain your copy right away, begin organizing your reasonably priced trip, and turn your ideal vacation to Pisa into a reality!

• Print length 120 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publication date March 28, 2024
• File size 6739 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
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Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CZF1YNBH
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ March 28, 2024
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 6739 KB
• Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 120 pages

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Livorno Cruise Port Guide &The Best Things to Do

Does your cruise stop in livorno italy here’s everything you should know about the livorno cruise port..

On the west coast of Italy sits Livrono, a lively port city that is the gateway for cruisers to two of Italy’s most iconic cities: Pisa and Florence.

Perched within Tuscany, this colorful city is the third-largest in the region. Being so conveniently located near many of Italy’s popular attractions, there really is an abundance for cruisers to see and do.

As a travel advisor who specializes in cruises, I have extensive knowledge of cruise ports and the best shore excursions for each.

In this article, I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about Livorno Cruise Port and how to best plan your visit.

I can plan your excursions (and cruise) for you FOR FREE!

Planning a cruise or excursion can be overwhelming and stressful. Let me take care of it for you – I can book your cruise or excursions at no additional cost.

Where is Livorno Cruise Port Located?

Livorno Cruise Port is located within the main Port of Livorno which sits right beside Livorno city, on the northwest coast of Italy.

Within the Tuscany region in Italy, Livorno is the closest cruise port to Pisa and Florence.

Pisa is a 40-minute taxi ride or a 20-minute train journey from Livorno Cruise Port and Florence is a 1.5-hour taxi ride or train journey from the cruise terminal.

The Livorno Cruise Port is vast with berths that can accommodate up to 8 cruise ships at any one time. The berths are dotted around the harbor, on different piers.

Beside each berth are a taxi rank, tourist information center, car rental stand, and opportunities to book day trips and tours. 

How to Get to Livorno City Center from the Cruise Port

The cruise port is located within a working industrial port and to journey from the cruise port to Livorno city, you’d have to travel through the working part of the port which is in fact not permitted on foot for health and safety reasons.

The good news is that the port offers a shuttle service from the cruise terminal to Piazza Grande, in the city center.

From Piazza Grande, it’s a 30-minute walk to Livorno Centrale, the main train station in the city.

Alternatively, there is a taxi rank beside every cruise terminal so you can grab a taxi directly to your destination.

Are There Free Shuttles From Livorno Cruise Port?

There are shuttle buses to Livorno city center offered to every cruise ship passenger. However, the cost depends on your cruise liner. Some cruise lines offer shuttles for free to their cruise passengers, and others charge a fee that you can expect to be around €5.

Can You Walk into Livorno from Your Cruise Ship?

It isn’t possible to walk from the cruise terminal into Livorno city center.

Health and safety regulations don’t permit walking in the industrial port. Even if it was allowed, the distance between the cruise ship berths and the city is very great and it would take you over an hour to walk into Livorno which isn’t practical.

There are however shuttles available that will take you from Livorno Cruise Port straight into the city of Livorno dropping you at Piazza Grande, a key square in the middle of the city.

Are there Taxis Available from Livorno Cruise Port?

Yes, there is a taxi rank beside every cruise ship in Livorno Cruise Port which will have enough taxis in it to accommodate all passengers looking to get a taxi.

Best Shore Excursions from the Livorno Cruise Port

Livorno Cruise Port is one of the busiest cruise ports in Italy due to its fantastic central location near many of Italy’s most extraordinary attractions.

There’s a host of things to see and do nearby. I’ll delve into some of my favorites below.

1. Leaning Tower of Pisa

Only a 40-minute drive or 20-minute train ride from Livorno city center, the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa really is a must for anyone visiting Livorno! The 56-meter high 14th-century tower can be found in the heart of the city of Pisa.

The tower is located beside the impressive Cattedrale di Pisa (Cathedral), and Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptist Church), enabling you to marvel at a number of incredible landmarks on your visit.

Trains run between Livorno and Pisa a couple of times per hour making it a quick and convenient way to journey between the two cities. From Pisa station, it’s a 20-minute walk to the famous tower.

Guided Tour

• Small group walking tour for a more personalized experience
• Expert local guide with insider knowledge
• Pre-reserved tickets for the leaning tower of Pisa

Florence and Pisa

• Port pick up and drop-off
• Professional guide
• Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
• Guaranteed on-time return to the pier

Alternatively, buses run every 10 minutes between the station and Torre 1, a bus stop just outside the square where the tower is found.

You can book a guided tour of Pisa which includes admission tickets  such as this one.

Another way to reach the Leaning Tower of Pisa is on a guided tour from Livorno.  This full-day tour  combines a visit to the tower with a trip to Florence, another incredible city in Italy.

2. Florence

Florence is the vibrant capital of the Tuscany region in Italy. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the city is famed for its stunning medieval architecture and monuments as well as museums.

It’s no surprise that a day trip to Florence is a must for many cruisers who arrive at Livorno Cruise Port.

Florence can be reached via train. Trains run from Livorno to Florence several times per day, roughly once per hour. The journey is direct (you don’t need to change trains) and takes 1 and a half hours each way.

Livorno Shore Excursion to Florence

• Hassle-free round-trip transfers from Livorno to Florence
• Convenient pick-up and dropoff points at the cruise port and city center
• A complimentary map of Florence’s historic center to explore on your own
• About 4.5 hours of free time to take in the Renaissance highlights

A taxi between Livorno Cruise Port and Florence also takes 1 and a half hours each way but is considerably more expensive than the train.

Perhaps the easiest way to visit Florence is via an arranged shore excursion with a guide, such as  this one . The tour takes you directly from Livorno Cruise Port to Florence and allows you over 4 hours to see the highlights of the city.

3. Cinque Terre

Just north of Livorno is a beautiful stretch of coastline known as Cinque Terre, characterized by colorful settlements which are stacked upon cliffs in bays that arc around turquoise waters.

The area encompasses 5 fishing villages, which make up part of the Cinque Terre National Park , an area of outstanding natural beauty.

You can journey to Cinque Terre from Livorno Cruise Port via taxi. Alternatively, you can book a tour.  This private tour  spans over 8 hours and visits different villages along the coastline.

• Private Tour
• Private luxury vehicle with driver for 8 hours
• Private official tour guide for 4 hours in Cinque Terre
• Private pick up and drop off in Livorno Cruise Port
• Local Taxes

Cinque Terre and Pisa

• All Fees and Taxes
• Private transportation
• WiFi on board
• Bottled water
• Pisa driving tour plus a stop at the Leaning Tower, Duomo, and Baptistery

There are tours available that combine a visit to Cinque Terre with Pisa, such as  this one . This is perfect if you wish to visit both beautiful locations during your day in Livorno.

4. San Gimignano

Nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany is this charming town, oozing with history and encircled by 13th-century walls. The UNESCO World Heritage Site town is famous for its incredible medieval architecture and striking 11 towers.

Not only is the town itself gorgeous to admire, but it’s surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.

One of the best things to do in San Gimignano is to try some of the delicious locally-produced wine and produce.   This food and wine-tasting tour   has exceptional online reviews and allows you to sample local cuisine from a traditional organic farm.

Food and Wine Tasting

• Visit a family-run organic farm and winery
• Taste three wines
• End with wine and “cantucci” biscuits

Cooking Class

• Learn how to make traditional Tuscan dishes in a local farmhouse kitchen
• Prepare up to six course

 Volterra & San Gimignano

• Sample five different Chianti wines
• Air-conditioned vehicle

San Gimignano is also the perfect location to try a  traditional Tuscan cooking class.

The best way to reach San Gimignano from Livorno port is to take a taxi. The journey should take around 1 and a half hours.

Another great way to visit the town is on a shore excursion tour, such as  this one , which visits both San Gimignano and Volterra, another gorgeous town.

5. Fortezza Vecchia

One of the main attractions in Livorno itself is this 11th-century fort which is right in the middle of Livorno port. It’s a spectacular fortress that is well worth admiring either before or after your main shore excursion.

This fortress, also known as the Old Fort, is the symbol of Livorno. It’s open from Tuesdays to Sundays, 9am to 8pm and is free to visit . There is a cafe right next to the fort called Fortezza. 

6. Wine Tasting

Tuscany is an area that’s renowned for its wine production. Therefore, if you’re into your wines, embarking on a wine tasting tour really is one of the best ways to get to know the region.

This full-day wine tour  starts in Livorno and takes you to some charming spots where you can sample the local wine. You’ll also have the opportunity to wander round Livorno city and even explore the bustling local market.

Full Day Wine Tour

•  Survey the city’s two impressive fortresses
• Sanctuary of Montenero
•  Stop at one of Bolgheri’s prestigious wineries to tour the cellars
•  Village of Castagneto Carducci

Chianti and Tuscany

• Explore the Tuscan countryside
• Learn about Chianti wines from your private driver-guide
• Sample local wine and olive oil in Chianti

This private wine tour  takes you to the Chianti wine region where you will visit vineyards and learn all about the wine-making process before getting to sample some. The tour will pick you up and drop you off right by your cruise ship.

Just 1 hour north from Livorno via road is Lucca, a city perched on the Serchio river. Nestled at the base of the Apuan Alps, this striking city is steeped in history, housing beautiful ancient churches, a clock tower and even traces of a Roman amphitheater, which are hidden behind the city walls.

It’s a 45 taxi ride to reach Lucca . Alternatively, Lucca can be reached via train. In order to visit the city, you’ll have to change trains in Pisa. The train to Pisa from Livorno takes 20 minutes and the second train from Pisa to Lucca takes 30 minutes.

Tours of Lucca from Livorno are also available. Sitting just north of Pisa, many tours combine a visit to both cities, such as  this one.

Livorno to Lucc

• Free WiFi on-board On-board
• Walking tour in Lucca with escort
• Free map of Lucca and Pisa
• Access to the Leaning Tower

8. Livorno City

For your day docked at Livorno Cruise Port, you may simply wish to explore the surrounding city, which although not as well known as Pisa or Florence, houses its own unique gems.

One of the best ways to explore the city is via a food and market tour.  This walking tour takes you to Livrono’s central market, known as Mercato Centrale.

This is in fact one of the largest markets in Europe. At this lively market, you’ll be able to sample local dishes, snacks, and drinks.

If you are interested in seeing the key sights of the city then a   hop-on hop-off bus tour  of Livorno may be what you’re looking for.

Getting From Livorno Airport to the Cruise Port

The closest airport to the Livorno cruise terminal is Pisa Airport which is 20 km (12.4 miles) north of Livorno.

The easiest way to travel between Pisa Airport and Livorno Cruise Port is by taxi or  private transfer  which typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes.

🚘 Book a private transfer to the cruise port here

Taking the train is also an option, although it takes considerably longer and may be challenging if you have lots of luggage.

It’s roughly a 20-minute walk between Pisa Airport and Pisa Centrale, the train station. It’s then a 20-minute train journey to Livorno station, followed by a 30-minute walk to Piazza Grande, where the shuttle buses to the cruise port stop.

Places to Stay Near Livorno Cruise Port

If you are looking for a convenient place to stay near Livorno Cruise Port then Agave in Città , a highly rated apartment with fantastic views over the canal is a fantastic option.

Boasting exceptional online reviews, this accommodation is conveniently located very close to the cruise port, just 600 meters away. A concierge, bar, and indoor pool are stationed at the property.

A little further away from the cruise port is 900 B&B , a charming B&B in a beautifully restored building that serves a selection of fresh pastries for breakfast.

Hotel Universal is another great option, although it sits just outside the city. Perched right on the seafront, the views from this hotel are exceptional.

Best Time to Visit Livorno

The best time to visit Tuscany is between April and October when the weather is more favorable. The height of summer (June, July, and August) will provide the best weather. The summer months are also the busiest time to visit Livorno and key sights can be very crowded.

➡️ To strike the best balance between good weather and fewer crowds, I’d recommend visiting Tuscany outside of the holiday season. April, May, September, and October are all great months.

Cruise Lines that Visit Livorno Cruise Port

A large number of cruise liners stop at Livorno Cruise Port. These include:

• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Viking Ocean
• Royal Caribbean
• Disney Cruise Line
• Marella Cruises
• P&O Cruises
• Saga Ocean Cruises
• Princess Cruises

Livorno Cruise Port FAQS

How far is livorno center from the cruise port.

Livorno city center is right beside the cruise port. However the sheer size of the cruise port and health and safety guidelines mean that you can’t walk into Livorno city from the cruise terminal. A shuttle bus between the two takes around 10 minutes.

How to get to Livorno train station from the cruise port

There are a number of ways that you can journey to Livorno train station from the cruise terminal.

The easiest way is via taxi. A taxi rank beside each cruise ship allows you to journey directly from your cruise ship to the train station, which will take around 15 minutes.

Alternatively, you can take the shuttle bus from the cruise port to Piazza Grande in the city center, and from there, it’s a 30-minute walk to Linorvo Train Station.

How far is Pisa from the cruise port?

Pisa is 23 km (14 miles) north of Livorno Cruise Port and can be reached via a 40 minute taxi ride or a 20 minute train ride from Linorvo Train Station.

How far is Florence from Livorno cruise port?

Florence is 93 km (57.8 miles) east of Livorno Cruise Port and can be reached by either a 1-and-a-half-hour train or taxi ride from Livorno.

Can you see Florence and Pisa on the same day?

Yes, it is possible to visit both Florence and Pisa on the same day.

I’d recommend journeying between the two cities via either taxi or as part of a tour. Taking public transport such as the train will certainly be more challenging.

There are a number of guided tours available which will take you to both cities, such as  this one .

Final Thoughts on the Livorno Cruise Port

Livorno Cruise Port is a great destination to stop at on your cruise as it allows you the opportunity to visit some of the most iconic cities in Italy, such as Pisa and Florence.

The shuttle bus service offered by the port means it’s very easy to journey into the city and the number of shore excursions on offer here means that there really is no shortage of things to do.

Cruise Resources

These are my tried and true, favorite cruise-planning helpers:

➡️ Cruise Critic – for reviews, deck plans, and cabin choices

➡️ Parking – for saving on your long-term parking

➡️ Travel Insurance Master – Because, yes, you do need insurance

➡️ Trip Advisor –

For Reviewing Tours and Excursions

➡️ Viator – For Shore Excursions

➡️ Shore Excursions Group – More choices for small group excursions

➡️ Resort for a day Passes in Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas

➡️ Atlantis Day Pass

➡️Cruise Packing List for Caribbean or Alaska

➡️ Cruise Tips

➡️Also, if you don’t want the hassle and stress of booking your own cruise, I can do it for you at no additional cost! You can read more about

These products are services I have used myself and trust. Purchasing through the links above, helps me continue my blog at no additional cost to you, and I appreciate it so much!

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From One Leaning Tower to Another, Tips to Stop the Tilt

Bologna is looking to Pisa, home of the most famous leaning tower, for help keeping its own tipping tower upright.

By Elisabetta Povoledo

Reported from Bologna

Leaning for centuries at a worrisome tilt, the Garisenda Tower in Bologna has endured insults and trauma. Dickens called it “sufficiently unsightly,” if extraordinary, while Goethe said it was “a spectacle that disgusts.” And then there were the earthquakes, the Allied bombing raids of the city during World War II and urbanization that doomed other towers.

The Garisenda has stood through it all, a beloved symbol of this medieval city, a reminder of a past when important families or communities would erect towers to remind others of their status, and for defense.

But now, the Garisenda is in trouble.

After sensors attached to the monument, which leans at a 3.6 degree angle, picked up “anomalous movements” last year, alarmed experts issued what one called an “engineering code red.”

In October, the Garisenda was cordoned off , with bright red protective barriers set up along part of its perimeter to limit the damage should the tower tumble, and a group of experts got to work on plans to safeguard it for the future, while watching for signs of imminent trouble.

“It’s like a patient in intensive care, there are 64 instruments that continually monitor its vital signs,” said Gilberto Dallavalle, a structural engineer responsible for the interventions to stabilize the 157-foot tower since 1997.

He and other experts called in to try to safeguard the tower have now put forward a solution, looking to another famous leaning tower for the answer. Bologna’s mayor, Matteo Lepore, announced last week that the city would adopt a temporary system of pylons and cables that proved a success in Pisa, where the most famous leaning tower is.

The idea is for two pylons to be attached to a special structure on the tower with cables that are expected to exert a counterforce should the tower start tipping more dangerously.

Once the Garisenda has been stabilized so that workers can operate safely, work can begin on shoring up the tower, especially the foundation, by injecting a mix of mortar compatible with selenite into a cavity in the base. A final phase will involve the restoration of the upper parts of the tower to ensure that it remains stable in years to come.

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“We have to secure the situation as soon as possible so that it doesn’t get worse,” then more considered decisions can be taken, Mr. Lepore said of the initial phase of work.

Bologna may best be known for its rich food (one of its nicknames is “la grassa,” the fat one); its university, which is the oldest in Italy (another of its nicknames is “la dotta,” the learned); and its miles of porticos, which three years ago were listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But it was once also a multi-towered city, a medieval Manhattan (and yes, that made for yet another nickname, “la turrita,” the towered.)

The towers, which once numbered around 100, are now mostly gone, felled during the centuries or incorporated into palazzos and modern buildings. Among the 20-odd that remain, the Garisenda and its much taller neighbor, the Asinelli, have become the centerpieces of the city’s well-preserved medieval city center.

Prized symbols of the city, the towers are ubiquitous: on postcards, souvenir magnets, even on gigantic chocolate Easter eggs that featured a drawing of them on a marzipan surface.

Built in the 12th century by the Garisendi, a wealthy local family, the leaning tower began to tilt while it was under construction and was shortened by some 40 feet in the 14th century over fears that it could collapse. Over the centuries, it experienced considerable wear and tear, between exposure to the elements and two major fires. For at least 250 years, blacksmiths used a forge built inside the base of the tower that significantly deteriorated the fragile selenite stones at the base. The forge was in operation until the late 19th century.

Modern concerns about the tower’s stability began about 25 years ago, and it has been closely monitored since then.

Those efforts were intensified about five years ago , when it became apparent that “the pace of deterioration had picked up,” said Raffaela Bruni, the engineer who heads the committee of experts tasked with saving the tower. In 2021, the base was girdled by thick steel cables and wooden planks (picture oversized dental braces), and the dozens of sensors and other monitoring instruments that now pick up even minute shifts.

Currently, the protections put in place keep visitors about 65 feet away from the base of the tower.

The committee of experts decided on the pylon system after a recent fact-finding trip to Pisa, where they determined that the same system could be used with some modifications. If all goes well, the pylons should be ready in six months.

In Pisa, the work done on the tower has boosted its expected life span by another 300 years , said Massimo Majowiecki, a Bologna based engineer, who worked in Pisa and is now on the team in his hometown. The costs of maintaining Italy’s vast cultural patrimony, he noted, is “an enormous burden, but it also creates a lot of experience.”

There is no way of judging if the intervention in Bologna will work, or for how long, but the engineers hope that computer modeling will help. A team from the University of Bologna is developing a digital twin for the Garisenda to simulate the effects of any potential fixes.

For now, despite media reports questioning the tower’s stability, the local community seems mainly sanguine.

The Garisenda has “gone through a lot, and it’s never fallen,” said Maurizio Pizzirani, whose wife owns the Hotel Garisenda, a small inn overlooking the towers.

The hotel’s website now gets considerable traffic, he said, thanks to a 24-hour webcam outside a window of the hotel’s breakfast room that looks onto the towers, keeping tabs on the work. (Three towers were demolished decades ago to make way for the building the hotel partly occupies.)

Like other locals, Mr. Pizzirani had opinions about the best course of action to take (starting with rerouting large buses), though he acknowledged that the tower had “no instruction manual.”

Whatever the ultimate solution, the work on the tower is expected to be too expensive for the local government to handle alone.

A fund-raising campaign promoted by Bologna City Hall reminds people that the towers are part of the city’s history and says “now you can be part of it too.” So far, the campaign has raised 4 million euro, or $4.3 million, according to a city spokesman, which has covered the costs of the work done so far. Italy’s culture ministry has another 5 million euro for the restoration, and the regional government will also pitch in.

In coming weeks, rockfall nets are set to be raised at the base of the tower in front of the Asinelli tower and the adjacent baroque Basilica of Sts. Bartolomeo and Gaetano to limit damage in case of collapse.

The church is most at risk, but a recent visit inside showed no evidence that the priests had planned for the worst.

“Not having any specific know-how in the field, I’m going with what City Hall tells us,” said the Rev. Stefano Ottani, the parish priest of the basilica. “We haven’t been told to limit access or close the basilica, so we’re keeping it open.”

Ms. Bruni, the engineer, provided a different explanation: “They have great faith in the Lord,” she said with a smile.

Elisabetta Povoledo is a reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years. More about Elisabetta Povoledo

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Italy’s other leaning tower is in danger of collapse, says Bologna

Thomas Bywater

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Italy's other leaning tower, Torre Garisenda, is in danger of collapse, says Bologna's mayor. Photo / Comune Bologna

Fixing this 12th-century colossus will not be a Pisa cake.

A 45m brick tower in Italy — one of Bologna’s top landmarks — has been closed to the public for urgent repairs after fears it could collapse.

The Garisenda Tower in Bologna has been dubbed Italy’s “other leaning tower”, and is just over 100km from Pisa’s famous tower “on the wonk”.

One of two towers dubbed “le due torri di Bologna”, they date back to 1100s Italy and are named for powerful Milanese merchants who built them. While the taller tower at 70m is the most obvious landmark, it is the smaller Garisenda structure that grabbed headlines last week, after authorities said it was in immediate risk of falling over.

While the leaning “torre pendente” in Pisa is a favourite backdrop for selfies for its 3.9-degrees tilt, alarm was sounded in Bologna after it was noticed Garisenda was tilting past 4 degrees and slowly subsiding further.

It’s now officially Italy’s wonkiest tower and at “high risk” of falling over.

In October, streets in central Bologna were cordoned off after conservators noticed cracks in the 915-year-old brick obelisk.

Now, in a race to save Bologna’s beloved leaning tower, Mayor Matteo Lepore says it has turned to Pisa for help.

Last Wednesday the mayor’s office said it was borrowing equipment previously used to reinforce the Leaning Tower.

“This will make it possible to secure the tower,” Lepore said.

The loan of the specialist scaffolding is reported to cost $33 million.

“Once the steel scaffolding already used in Pisa are installed, the Torre Garisenda will go from the yellow phase [of relative danger] to the green phase”

Once this green phase had been reached, the Asinelli Tower could be reopened to the public. At only 1.3 degrees lean, the taller tower was considered a far lower risk. However, this was likely to take up to two years.

“In 2025 and 2026, there will be further consolidation and restoration work, which still needs to be planned,” Lepore said.

It’s the most perilous period for the two brick towers since 1943, when bombing raids during the World War II almost struck the piazza.

Climbing the 498 steps to the top of the Asinelli is one of the most popular attractions in the north Italian city, taking up to 25 tourists at a time for €5 ($9) each.

The ticketing website warns tourists the towers are closed for maintenance, but offers a virtual tour of the clock tower.