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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Pisa Italy Travel Guide

Pisa is known for the Leaning Tower, but there's more to this city than just one photo. If you're looking for the best things to do in Pisa, you'll find historic squares, local food spots, and a few underrated places most travelers miss.

I've visited Pisa multiple times while traveling through Tuscany, and while it's not a place I'd stay for long, it's absolutely worth seeing. Most people visit Pisa as a half-day or day trip from nearby cities like Florence, and with the right plan, you can see the highlights without wasting time.

This guide breaks down the best things to do in Pisa, plus exactly how to plan 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

Best Things to Do in Pisa

Here are the best things to do in Pisa, from must-see landmarks to local spots worth your time.

Must-See Attractions in Pisa

1. Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa
You can't come to Pisa and skip this. Climb the tower for panoramic views over the city and the Arno River. Book in advance-spots sell out fast.

2. Explore Piazza dei Miracoli
This UNESCO-listed square is the highlight of Pisa. You'll find the tower, cathedral, baptistery, and cemetery all in one place.

3. Visit Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Pisa)
Step inside the cathedral right next to the tower. The interior is just as impressive as the outside, with detailed marble and gold ceilings.

4. See the Baptistery of Pisa
Climb to the upper level for a unique view of the square and incredible acoustics inside.

5. Walk through Campo Santo
This historic cemetery is quieter than the main attractions and filled with frescoes and centuries-old tombs.

Local Experiences + Food in Pisa

6. Walk along Borgo Stretto
One of the most charming streets in Pisa, lined with shops, cafés, and covered walkways.

7. Grab a sandwich at I Porci Comodi
This is one of the most famous food stops in Pisa. Expect huge sandwiches packed with Tuscan meats and cheeses.

8. Have lunch at Trattoria da Stelio
A small, authentic spot with a daily-changing menu. Go early-it fills up quickly.

9. Walk the Lungarno at sunset
The streets along the Arno River are at their best in the evening. This is one of the simplest but best things to do in Pisa.

10. Cross Ponte di Mezzo
The main bridge in Pisa with great views of the river and surrounding buildings.

Hidden Gems in Pisa

11. Visit Santa Maria della Spina
A small Gothic church right on the river with detailed architecture that most people overlook.

12. See Keith Haring's Tuttomondo mural
A colorful, unexpected piece of modern art tucked away near the train station.

13. Explore Giardino Scotto
A quiet park perfect for a break from sightseeing.

14. Visit the Botanical Garden of Pisa
One of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe, ideal for a slower, relaxed stop.

15. Wander San Martino neighborhood
Less touristy, more local. You'll find small cafés, street art, and a different side of Pisa.

Unique Things to Do Near Pisa

16. Watch the sunset at Marina di Pisa
Head to the coast for a more relaxed vibe and seafood by the water.

17. Take a day trip to Lucca
Only 30 minutes away, known for its walls and charming old town.

18. Visit Florence
Just 1 hour away and one of the best cities in Italy for art and architecture.

19. Explore the Cinque Terre
Colorful coastal villages about 1-1.5 hours from Pisa.

20. Visit Certosa di Calci
A peaceful monastery just outside the city, perfect if you want something quieter.

Seasonal + Local Events in Pisa

21. Experience Luminara di San Ranieri
If you're visiting in June, the city lights up with thousands of candles along the river followed by fireworks.

One Day Itinerary for Pisa Italy

If you only have one day in Pisa, this is exactly how to see the highlights without rushing. Most travelers spend 2-4 hours here, but with a full day, you can experience more than just the Leaning Tower.

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.

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

I Porci Comodi: Go-to for casual Italian, Mediterranean street food, Tuscan style.
L'Ostellino: Italian bar food, quick and healthy, mixing old and new flavors.
Il Peperoncino: Wide range of Italian pizza, Mediterranean, and European dishes.
Ristoro Pisano: Big on healthy Italian and Mediterranean, especially Tuscan dishes.
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:

Centro Commerciale Pisanova: Indoor mall with over 30 retailers, Italian and international. Good for rainy days, under 2 miles from downtown.
Corso Italia: Outdoor shopping stretch from Piazza dei Cavalieri to Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. Stores like Mango, H&M, Zara. Busy, with bars and pretty buildings.
Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo: High-end boutiques under medieval arches for luxury shopping. Runs from Piazza Garibaldi to via Oberdan.
Piazza dei Miracoli: Known for the Leaning Tower but also has souvenir vendors.
Mercato delle Vettovaglie: Daily market (not Sundays) with fresh produce, cheese, pastries. Great for local culture.
Ponte di Mezzo Antique Market: Second weekend monthly, near Palazzo Blu. Ideal for antiques and vintage items.
Via San Martino Flea Market: Wednesdays and Saturdays until 1 pm. Used clothing, shoes, accessories.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele Spring Market: April market with European products like Italian, French, Austrian specialties.
Pisa Store: For A.C. Pisa soccer team fans. Team merchandise.
Centro Commerciale Parco Levante: In Livorno, 30 minutes from Pisa. Typical mall with shops and restaurants.

cinque terre monterosso — *Monterosso al Mare*!

🏖️ 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.

riomaggiore picture during the day — *Cinque Terre!*

🚙 8 Day Trip Ideas from Pisa

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

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

🌡️ Pisa Italy Weather

Pisa, Italy's annual weather:

Summers: Short, warm, humid, clear. August is hottest, averaging highs of 84°F and lows around 65°F.

Winters: Long, cold, partly cloudy. January is coldest, with average lows of 37°F, highs near 52°F.

Precipitation: More rain September to May. October often wettest.

Wind: Stronger October to April, peaking in December. Calmer April to October, least windy in August.

Humidity: Muggiest mid-June to late September. August's the muggiest.

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.

❓FAQs

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

Is it worth visiting Pisa in Italy?

Pisa is ideal for a day trip or a Tuscany base. It offers more than the famous leaning tower. You can even do a half-day trip there, along with Lucca, depending on your interests.

Why is Pisa Italy famous?

Pisa's fame isn't just its leaning tower. It's packed with over twenty historic churches, medieval palaces, and bridges over the Arno. Its rich architecture stems from its past as a maritime republic.

Which is better Florence or Pisa?

Definitely choose Florence. Pisa as a base was a letdown. Better to do Pisa and Lucca in a day from Florence, or just Lucca for a full day. Pisa has little besides the tower. See it and move on.

Is one day enough in Pisa Italy?

One day in Pisa usually cuts it. But it's an excellent hub for Tuscany's medieval villages and towns. Sure, the leaning Tower of Pisa draws crowds. But Pisa offers more than just this tower and its Campo dei Miracoli.

What is the best month to visit Pisa Italy?

June to September is summer in Pisa and peak tourist time. People worldwide come for the Leaning Tower and heritage sites. Pisa's summers are warm, sunny, perfect for walking tours.

Is it safe to walk around Pisa at night?

Violent crime is rare in Pisa. Still, don't flash valuables or expensive devices. Pickpocketing can happen in crowds. But with basic precautions, Pisa is safe to explore.

What food is Pisa known for?

In Pisa, try the local food. The city's linked to the sea. Go for Spaghetti con le arselle, clams pasta. Don't miss stuffed mussels, Pisan style. They're filled with shrimp, squid, eggs, parsley, garlic, and cooked in tomato sauce.

How many days do you need in Pisa?

You only need half a day to one full day in Pisa.

Is Pisa a cheap city?

Living costs in Pisa are low, especially compared to Rome or Milan. Rent and bills might run €400-600 monthly. You can get by on less than €1,000 a month.

How far apart are Florence and Pisa?

Florence to Pisa is 42 miles. High-speed trains do it in 49 minutes. Average ticket price: $10.

Is Pisa Walkable?

Yes, Pisa is very walkable. Most of the main attractions are within 15-20 minutes of each other, and the city is flat, making it easy to explore on foot.