What to do in Pisa?

Travelling to Pisa

A trip to Pisa is easy to plan thanks to its excellent transport connections by train, plane, and bus. Galileo Galilei International Airport is just a few minutes from the city centre, with frequent trains and shuttle services. If you prefer travelling by train, Pisa is well connected to major Italian cities such as Florence, Rome, and Genoa, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

To make the most of your day in Pisa, planning your route wisely is key. Start at the Piazza dei Miracoli to visit the iconic tower, the cathedral, and the baptistery, then explore the historic streets towards Borgo Stretto for a taste of local life. End your day along the banks of the Arno, where you can admire the historic palaces and enjoy a spectacular sunset. With a well-organised itinerary, you can discover the essence of Pisa while making the most of your time.

 

When is the best time to visit Pisa?

Pisa can be visited year-round, but certain periods are particularly well-suited for an enjoyable experience. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for mild weather and sunny days, perfect for exploring the Piazza dei Miracoli or strolling along the banks of the Arno. These seasons also see fewer crowds compared to the summer months, making for a more relaxed visit.

If you want a unique cultural experience, plan your trip around 16 June for the Luminara di San Ranieri, a traditional festival during which the city is lit up by thousands of candles along the Arno. Avoid the winter months if you prefer long days and mild weather, though Pisa retains its charm even under greyer skies. Whatever time of year you choose, the city will welcome you with its rich history and one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

Top things to do in Pisa — must-see attractions

One of the great advantages of Pisa is how close its main attractions are to one another. The city offers a compact itinerary, ideal for discovering its highlights in a single day or over a weekend. Here are the must-sees you should not miss:

The Piazza dei Miracoli and the Leaning Tower of Pisa

At the heart of the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is undoubtedly the star attraction. But did you know you can also explore the interior of the Leaning Tower on a fascinating visit? Climbing its 294 steps rewards you with a sweeping panoramic view over the city. If you are wondering where the Leaning Tower of Pisa is located, it stands in the famous Piazza, alongside the Cathedral and the Baptistery. During your visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, take time to learn about its remarkable history. Who built the Leaning Tower of Pisa? Construction began in 1173 under architect Bonanno Pisano, and the building process stretched across nearly two centuries due to the tower's gradual sinking into unstable ground.

Borgo Stretto

After exploring the Leaning Tower, continue your discovery by wandering through the picturesque lanes of Borgo Stretto. This charming neighbourhood, with its medieval arcades, boutiques, and cafés, is perfect for soaking up local life.

The Banks of the Arno

For a relaxing walk after visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa, head towards the banks of the Arno. Along the way, admire iconic landmarks such as the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the bustle of the Piazza.

The Piazza delle Vettovaglie

Round off your day at the Piazza delle Vettovaglie, a lively and welcoming square where you can sample local specialities in an authentic setting.

Thanks to its compact layout, Pisa makes it easy to explore the history of the Leaning Tower and much more within a short time, offering a rich and accessible experience for all visitors.

Visiting Pisa in one day

If you only have one day to explore Pisa, follow this well-organised itinerary to cover the city's highlights:

Morning: Start at the Piazza dei Miracoli
Begin your day at the Piazza dei Miracoli, where you can visit the iconic landmarks: the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Baptistery, the Pisa Cathedral, and the Camposanto Monumentale. Take time to climb the tower's steps and enjoy a panoramic view over the city. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

Midday: Lunch break in Borgo Stretto
After a busy morning, make your way to Borgo Stretto, a lively historic neighbourhood with plenty of restaurants and cafés. Try local specialities such as "cecina" or truffle-based dishes, both typical of the Tuscan region.

Afternoon: Exploring the historic centre and the banks of the Arno
Wander through the lanes of the historic centre to discover highlights such as Piazza delle Vettovaglie and Piazza dei Cavalieri, the former seat of medieval power. Continue your stroll along the Lungarni, the riverside promenade, where you can admire historic palaces and the small but enchanting Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina.

Late afternoon: Sunset and shopping
End your day with some shopping in the local boutiques or relax in a café with a view over the Arno. If you can, stay for sunset to capture Pisa bathed in golden light.

This compact itinerary lets you make the most of Pisa in a single day, balancing culture, leisure, and local cuisine.

Where to stay in Pisa?

Pisa offers a variety of neighbourhoods suited to different types of travellers, each with its own character. If you want to be at the heart of the action, Santa Maria is the ideal area. Located close to the Piazza dei Miracoli, this neighbourhood is home to the most famous landmarks, including the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery. It is perfect for exploring the city on foot and experiencing full cultural immersion.

For a more local atmosphere and easy access to restaurants, cafés, and shops, choose Borgo Stretto, a charming historic quarter known for its picturesque lanes and medieval arcades. Travellers looking for a quieter experience will appreciate the San Francesco neighbourhood, known for its calm atmosphere and pretty little squares, while still remaining close to the main attractions.

If you need a practical, well-connected base, the Stazione Centrale area is an excellent option. Located near the train station, it is ideal for travellers arriving by rail or planning to explore other Tuscan cities. Finally, for those seeking a green and restful setting, the area around San Rossore offers accommodation close to the natural park, perfect for combining sightseeing with relaxation.

Each neighbourhood in Pisa offers a different experience, whether you are there to explore history, enjoy local life, or simply unwind in a peaceful setting. Choose based on your preferences for a memorable stay.

Renting a car in Pisa

While Pisa itself is easily explored on foot, renting a car in Italy can be an excellent option for discovering the surrounding wonders of Tuscany. Whether you want to visit charming medieval villages such as San Gimignano, the vineyards of Chianti, or the beaches along the Tuscan coast, having a car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace.

Pisa has several car rental companies located near Galileo Galilei Airport, which is convenient for picking up a vehicle as soon as you arrive. You will also find agencies in the city centre, ideal if you decide to hire a car after exploring the city first.

To get the most out of your experience, book in advance — especially during peak season — and choose a vehicle suited to country roads. With a car, Tuscany opens up to you, offering breathtaking landscapes and complete immersion in a region steeped in history and culture.

Day trips from Pisa: what to do nearby

The area around Pisa is full of fascinating destinations, perfect for a day trip.

Florence

About an hour from Pisa, Florence is one of Tuscany's unmissable cities. The birthplace of the Renaissance, it is filled with masterpieces such as the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio. Take time to wander its vibrant streets, visit its world-class museums, and enjoy a gelato on one of its historic squares. Florence is a must for anyone passionate about art and history.

Livorno

Just 30 minutes from Pisa, Livorno is a charming port city ideal for a seaside excursion. Known for its canals in the Nuova Venezia quarter, its lively central market, and its local culinary specialities, Livorno offers a unique maritime atmosphere. It is also an excellent starting point for exploring the Tuscan coast.

Lucca

Located 30 minutes from Pisa, Lucca is a delightful small city encircled by remarkably well-preserved Renaissance walls. You can walk or cycle along the top of them for a panoramic view over the city. With its churches, picturesque lanes, and lively squares such as Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, Lucca is a true haven of tranquillity.

Siena

About 1.5 hours by road, Siena is a journey into medieval history. Its famous Piazza del Campo, home to the Palio horse race, and its magnificently decorated Gothic cathedral are not to be missed. Wandering through its narrow, winding streets feels like stepping back in time in a city where history seems still very much alive.

San Gimignano

An hour from Pisa, San Gimignano — nicknamed the "city of towers" — transports you into a uniquely medieval atmosphere. This hilltop village, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is celebrated for its towers, cobbled lanes, and panoramic views over the surrounding hills. Do not leave without tasting its local wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano.