21 Top Things to Do in Pisa, Italy (First Timers Guide)

In Pisa, Italy, you can visit the famous Leaning Tower, but you should do more than just that. Nestled next to the Pisa River and home to many centuries of history, Pisa is a beautiful city with food for your stomach and sights for your eyes. Here is your list of the best things to do in Pisa and must-experience best things to do in Pisa, Italia.

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Jump To

• Pisa Italy Travel Guide
• 🔭 Where Is Pisa
• 🌍 Map of Pisa
• 21 Things to Do in Pisa Italy
• ✈️ How to Get to Pisa
• How to Get Around Pisa
• Off the Beaten Path Stuff to See & Do in Pisa
• 👫🏽 Best Guided Tours in Pisa
• 🍴 Best Places to Eat in Pisa Italy
• 🏘️ Neighborhoods in Pisa
• 🏨 Best Places to Stay in Pisa Italy
• 🛍️ Best Shopping In Pisa
• 🏖️ Beaches In Pisa Italy
• 💃🏽 Best Dance Clubs and Bars in Pisa
• 🚙 8 Day Trip Ideas from Pisa
• 👩🏽‍🏫 One Day Itinerary for Pisa Italy
• One Day in Pisa:
• 🌡️ Pisa Italy Weather
• Best Time to Visit Pisa
• 🎄 Pisa in December and Christmas
• 💻 Italy Travel Resources
• ❓FAQs
• 🇮🇹 Explore More of Italy!

Pisa Italy Travel Guide

I've been to Pisa a couple of times, and I'll be honest-it's not my favorite city in Italy. That said, the Piazza dei Miracoli, with its Leaning Tower, cathedral, and baptistery, is absolutely worth seeing at least once in your life.

I usually recommend visiting Pisa as a day trip, since you can cover the highlights in just a few hours. But if you decide to stay longer, there's more to discover beyond the tower. Here are 21 things you can do in Pisa to make the most of your visit.

🔭 Where Is Pisa

Pisa is a historic city in Tuscany, central Italy, best known for its Leaning Tower. It sits along the Arno River, about 85 km (53 miles) west of Florence and just 20 minutes inland from the Tuscan coast.

Thanks to its location, Pisa makes an easy stop on a Tuscany itinerary-whether you're traveling by train, car, or plane through Pisa International Airport.

🌍 Map of Pisa

21 Things to Do in Pisa Italy

You need to see these spots in Pisa:

1. Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Start your trip with Pisa's most iconic experience. Climb the Leaning Tower for breathtaking views of the city and the Arno River.

2. Explore Piazza dei Miracoli

Walk through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the Monumental Cemetery-all surrounding the Leaning Tower.

3. Stroll through Knights' Square

Discover Piazza dei Cavalieri, once the political heart of Pisa and redesigned by Vasari. Admire the Palazzo della Carovana and the Church of Santo Stefano.

4. See Keith Haring's Tuttomondo

Visit one of Keith Haring's last murals, painted in 1989. Tuttomondo is a vibrant, colorful work symbolizing peace and harmony.

5. Visit the Museum of Ancient Ships

Step inside the Le Navi Antiche di Pisa and see seven Roman ships, sailor gear, and artifacts that highlight Pisa's seafaring past.

6. Admire Santa Maria della Spina

Stop by this tiny Gothic church on the Arno, famous for its ornate façade and rich history.

7. Walk along Borgo Stretto

Take a stroll through Pisa's most charming street, lined with shops, cafés, and gelato stops under medieval porticoes.

8. Have Breakfast at Caffè Panoramico

Start your day with a cappuccino and pastry at Caffè Panoramico, where you'll get sweeping views of Pisa.

9. Have Lunch at Trattoria da Stelio

Enjoy a cozy, authentic Tuscan lunch at Trattoria da Stelio, where the menu changes daily based on what's fresh.

10. Grab a Sandwich at I Porci Comodi

Stop by I Porci Comodi for Pisa's most famous panini, loaded with cured meats, cheeses, and fresh bread.

11. See the Sunset at Marina di Pisa

Head to the coast and watch the sunset at Marina di Pisa, paired with seafood or pizza by the water.

12. Cross Ponte di Mezzo

Walk across Pisa's central bridge over the Arno for beautiful river views and a local vibe.

13. Relax at Giardino Scotto

Unwind in this peaceful public park, perfect for picnics or a quiet stroll.

14. Visit the Botanical Garden of Pisa

Explore one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, filled with rare plants and shaded paths.

15. Walk the Lungarno at Sunset

Take an evening stroll along the Arno River. Lungarno Pacinotti is especially stunning when the sun goes down.

16. Dine at Trattoria da Bruno

End your day with a classic Tuscan dinner at Trattoria da Bruno, a local favorite always buzzing with energy.

17. Visit Palazzo Blu

Step inside Palazzo Blu to see rotating exhibitions of art, history, and culture.

18. Shop at Mercato delle Vettovaglie

Wander through this lively local market, filled with fresh produce, cheeses, and Tuscan specialties.

19. Take a Day Trip to Certosa di Calci

Drive less than an hour to visit the Certosa di Calci, a monastery with impressive architecture and peaceful surroundings.

20. Experience a Pisa Calcio Match

Feel the local passion by watching a football match at Arena Garibaldi stadium.

21. Celebrate Luminara di San Ranieri

If you're visiting on June 16, see Pisa lit up with thousands of candles along the Arno, followed by a fireworks show.

✈️ How to Get to Pisa

Pisa's transport options, quick and simple:

Pisa is easy to reach by plane, train, or car.

The city has its own airport, Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei), just a few minutes from the city center. You can take a quick taxi, bus, or the Pisa Mover shuttle train straight into town.

If you're traveling within Italy, the train is the most convenient option. Pisa Centrale station connects directly with Florence (about 1 hour), Lucca (30 minutes), and even Rome (about 2.5-3 hours). From the station, it's a short walk or bus ride to the Leaning Tower area.

Driving is also an option. Pisa sits right off the A11 and A12 highways, making it an easy stop if you're road-tripping through Tuscany. Just note that the historic center has ZTL zones (restricted traffic areas), so parking outside the center and walking in is usually best.

How to Get Around Pisa

The best way to explore Pisa is on foot. Most of the city's main sights, including the Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli, are within walking distance of each other.

For longer distances, you can use local buses, which connect Pisa Centrale station with the main attractions and neighborhoods. Tickets can be bought at kiosks, tabacchi shops, or directly through mobile apps.

If you want a more flexible option, consider renting a bike. Pisa is flat and bike-friendly, making cycling a fun way to see both the city and the Arno riverbanks.

Taxis are available but not always necessary unless you're traveling with luggage or heading to the airport.

Off the Beaten Path Stuff to See & Do in Pisa

Want a non-touristy day in Pisa, Italy? Here's what to do:

• Start with sunrise meditation by the Arno River. It's peaceful, with the sun reflecting off the water.
• Next, explore Pisa's hidden courtyards. They're off the main paths, behind homes and shops, showing real Pisan life.
• Hit a local market. Pick up fresh goods for a picnic. Find a quiet park or riverbank spot to eat.
• Wander through San Martino for street art. It's less visited, full of local artist works, a vibrant contrast to old Pisa.
• Photograph Pisa's medieval walls in early morning or late afternoon light. They're historic, away from tourist crowds.
• Relax in the Orto botanico di Pisa, one of the oldest botanical gardens. Perfect for reading or just chilling.
• Take a cooking class with a local chef. Learn Tuscan cooking, connect with Pisans who love their food.
• Rent a bike, ride to nearby villages. See Tuscany's countryside, hills, vineyards, and small towns.
• End with an aperitivo in a quiet piazza. It's an Italian tradition, with local wines and snacks as evening sets in.
• Finally, stargaze by the Leaning Tower at night. It's quieter, and the tower against the night sky is magical.

👫🏽 Best Guided Tours in Pisa

Here's a list of top guided tours in Pisa worth checking out:

Also, be sure to check out these five tours in Pisa:

1. 1 Hour Guided Pisa Tour: Quick, 1-hour look at the Tower of Pisa and Square of Miracles, with a Cathedral visit.
2. Two Hour Pisa Walking Tour: 2 hours covering Pisa's highlights like the Square of Miracles and Garibaldi Square.
3. Half Day Pisa Tour from Florence: 5.5 hours from Florence. Hits Piazza dei Miracoli, Piazza dei Cavalieri, and the Leaning Tower.
4. Tuscany Day Tour: 11.5 hours exploring Tuscany, including Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, a winery lunch, and wine tasting.
5. Pisa & Lucca Day Trip from Florence: 9 hours from Florence, visiting Pisa's monuments and exploring medieval Lucca.

🍴 Best Places to Eat in Pisa Italy

Pisa's calling for Italian food lovers. Eatwith is your key. They're huge in the authentic dining game. Think homemade Italian meals, cooking in a local's kitchen!

Eatwith is everywhere, 130 places, Pisa too. They're picky with hosts, aiming for variety and depth. Doesn't matter if you're new to cooking or a pro. Their hosts range from amateur chefs to Michelin stars. But all share one thing: a passion for food and sharing. So, join the table in Pisa. It's a feast for your soul and taste buds. Buon appetito!

Top 5 Pisa, Italy eats:

1. I Porci Comodi: Go-to for casual Italian, Mediterranean street food, Tuscan style.
2. L'Ostellino: Italian bar food, quick and healthy, mixing old and new flavors.
3. Il Peperoncino: Wide range of Italian pizza, Mediterranean, and European dishes.
4. Ristoro Pisano: Big on healthy Italian and Mediterranean, especially Tuscan dishes.
5. La Panacea: Steakhouse and grill heaven for those craving big, meaty meals.

🏘️ Neighborhoods in Pisa

Pisa, Italy's neighborhoods each have their own flavor. Here's a quick rundown:

• Santa Maria: In the city's heart, near the Leaning Tower and other big sites. Perfect for history buffs, but it's touristy and pricier.
• San Giusto: Just south of the Arno, near Pisa Centrale. It's practical, cheaper than Santa Maria, and great for exploring Tuscany.
• San Francesco: North of the Arno, buzzing with student life from Pisa University. Good for nightlife, affordable stays, and close to attractions.
• San Martino: Next to San Giusto, south of the river. Offers a local feel with cafes and restaurants, slightly away from top sights but near the train for day trips.
• Sant' Antonio: Family-friendly, quieter, south of the river. Near the train station and green spots, good for families and relaxed outings.

🏨 Best Places to Stay in Pisa Italy

Grand Hotel Continental Pisa Italy

The Grand Hotel Continental in Pisa, Italy:

• Location: On Tirrenia's seafront, 9.3 miles from the Leaning Tower, 6.2 miles from the airport.
• Rooms: Choices include single to quadruple, and economy double. Mediterranean style, light-wood furniture, air conditioning, satellite TV. Some have sea-view balconies.

AC Hotel Pisa by Marriott Pisa Italy

AC Hotel by Marriott Pisa in Cisanello, known for its business district, is modern and close to Pisa's center. Less than 3 km from the Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli. Handy for Cisanello hospital, Pisa Exhibition Center, Pisa Fiere, and the airport. Not far from beaches like Marina di Pisa and Tirrenia.

Hotel Leonardo Pisa Italy

Hotel Leonardo in Pisa, Italy:

• Location: Near Pisa's main shopping street, walkable to the Leaning Tower. On a quiet street, 15 minutes from Pisa Station. Couples love the location.

🛍️ Best Shopping In Pisa

Shopping in Pisa, Italy:

🏖️ Beaches In Pisa Italy

Pisa's surrounded by great beaches:

• Marina di Pisa: 15 minutes from downtown, family-friendly with long sand stretches. Good for swimming, sunbathing, close to food and shops.
• San Rossore Nature Park: Just 5 minutes from downtown. Offers a quiet beach, good for walks, families, and nature lovers.
• Monterosso al Mare: Over an hour away, in Cinque Terre. Known for lemons, wine, and beaches. Has shallow waters, soft sands, good for day trips or weekends.
• Pietrasanta: 30-minute drive. A celebrity hangout, tranquil. Beach clubs for a luxury vibe, great for shopping and dining but pricier.
• Forte Dei Marmi: About 30 minutes away, famous for upscale beaches and lifestyle. Access to some beaches costs. Known for fine dining, luxury shops, top nightclubs.
• Tirrenia: Between Pisa and Livorno, 20 minutes away. Free beach, known as the "pearl of the Mediterranean." Great for sunbathing, dining, shopping.
• Calambrone: 30 minutes from Pisa, great for windsurfers. Good for beach walks too.
• Versilia: 30 minutes away, ideal for sunbathing, beach walks. High-end beach clubs, rough surf, near shopping and dining.

💃🏽 Best Dance Clubs and Bars in Pisa

Pisa's nightlife is buzzing with diverse bars and clubs:

• Teatro Verdi: A stunning theatre for opera, concerts, plays. A must for arts and culture fans.
• Borderline Club: Rocks with live music, especially rock. Local favorite for live gigs.
• Tree: Bright, lively bar popular with students and young pros. Known for catchy music, tasty shots, affordable drinks.
• SudPisa: Wine bar loved by students and southern Italians. Cozy spot for southern Italian wines and aperitivos.
• Mocambo: Great for its vibe and occasional jazz. Ideal for wine and cocktails.
• Argini e Margini Pisa: Chill river hangout, draws the cultural crowd. Stylish for music-filled nights under the stars.
• Arno Vivo: Riverside bar, famous for its spritz. Perfect for relaxed evenings.
• Chupiteria Pisa: The 'world of shots' for the younger crowd. Small but with a vast shot selection.
• Sunset Café: In Tirrenia, romantic, waterside vibe. Great for long drinks and sunsets.

🚙 8 Day Trip Ideas from Pisa

From Pisa, you've got great day trips to explore Tuscany and more:

1. Florence: An hour by train. Renaissance art and architecture heaven with the Uffizi Gallery, Duomo, Accademia Gallery.
2. Lucca: 40 minutes away. Famous for Renaissance walls and old town. Great for a relaxed day out.
3. Montecatini: Under 40 minutes. Known for thermal spas, perfect for a chill, spa-focused day.
4. San Miniato: Just 35 minutes. Small town, big on truffles and medieval architecture. A quiet half-day trip.
5. Viareggio: Reach its sandy beaches in less than 40 minutes. Top pick for a beach day.
6. Chianti region: 30 minutes south of Florence. Wine lovers' paradise, scenic countryside.
7. Cinque Terre: Not in Tuscany, but worth it for coastal scenery and fishing villages. Great for photos, Italian Riviera vibes.
8. Bologna: About 35 minutes by train. Unique feel with medieval, Renaissance buildings, university, and amazing food culture.

👩🏽‍🏫 One Day Itinerary for Pisa Italy

One Day in Pisa:

• Morning: Start with Italian breakfast at Filter Coffee Lab or Pasticceria Cioccorocolato. Try cheesecake muffins or sweet treats.
• Mid-Morning: Head to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Book tickets, climb 251 steps, enjoy city views from the top.
• Late Morning: Visit Pisa Baptistery for its acoustics, then the Romanesque Pisa Cathedral with its religious relics.
• Noon: Check out Campo Santo cemetery. It's historical, with frescoes and a peaceful vibe.
• Lunch: Grab a traditional salami and cheese platter at I Porci Comodi or L'Ostellino.
• Afternoon: Walk through Knights' Square, see Palazzo della Carovana and Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri. Visit Palazzo Blu for Italian art.
• Late Afternoon: Shop on Corso Italia, Pisa's main shopping street.
• Evening: End your day with a walk along the Arno River. Enjoy the evening lights and river calm.

🌡️ Pisa Italy Weather

Pisa, Italy's annual weather:

Best Time to Visit Pisa

The best time to visit Pisa is in spring (April-June) and fall (September-October). The weather is warm but comfortable, and the crowds are smaller than in peak summer.

July and August are the busiest months, with hot temperatures and higher prices, though perfect if you enjoy lively streets and festivals.

In winter (November-March), Pisa is much quieter. Some days can be rainy, but you'll have the main sights almost to yourself.

🎄 Pisa in December and Christmas

December in Pisa:

• Iconic Landmarks: Check out the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, and Piazza del Duomo. Don't miss climbing the Tower for city views.
• Holiday Decor: The city lights up with holiday decorations, creating a magical vibe, especially in the evenings. Piazza dei Miracoli is a highlight.
• Christmas Events: Expect Christmas Eve parties, Gospel Choirs, brunches, Santa Claus, and special dinners. Dive into the local holiday spirit.
• Weather: Mild winter, but pack for cooler temps and possible rain. Afternoon siestas are common.
• Cultural Events: Pisa's December scene includes art shows, music. Specific events for 2024 aren't out yet, but there's always something on.
• Local Cuisine: Great time for Tuscan holiday food. Plenty of dining choices, from casual spots to upscale restaurants.

💻 Italy Travel Resources

I've got a list of top Italy/Europe travel resources below. Many are my go-to favorites. Some come from other travelers and nomads. Every one of them is a solid choice.

❓FAQs

People often ask these common questions about Pisa, Italy. They want clear, straightforward answers.

🇮🇹 Explore More of Italy!

Pisa is only the beginning of Italy's marvels. Discover more magic in the articles below. 'Buon Viaggio'!