Things To Do
in Calcinaia
Calcinaia is a quiet Tuscan town just outside Pisa, perched along the Arno River. It blends medieval streets with serene riverside scenery and a welcoming local vibe. Its location makes it a convenient base for exploring Pisa, Lucca, and the surrounding countryside.
Expect simple, hearty meals and a relaxed, authentic Italian atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Calcinaia and settle into your accommodation. After unpacking, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets and admire the historic architecture. Stop by a local café to enjoy a coffee while absorbing the local atmosphere.
Visit the nearby San Giovanni Battista Church to marvel at its beautiful frescoes. Enjoy lunch at a family-run trattoria, sampling traditional Tuscan dishes. Explore the local artisan shops and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two.
Dine at a cozy restaurant, savoring local wines paired with seasonal dishes. As the sun sets, take a walk along the Arno River, soaking in the serene views. Wind down with a gelato from a renowned local shop.
Join a guided walking tour of Calcinaia to learn about its rich history and cultural significance. Visit the town's museum to view artifacts that tell the stories of its past. Enjoy a light breakfast at a quaint bakery before the tour begins.
Participate in a cooking class where you can create authentic Italian dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Lunch will be the fruits of your labor, enjoyed with fellow cooking enthusiasts. Afterward, take some time to relax at a nearby park.
Attend a local event or festival if available, where you can experience traditional music and dance. Share good food and laughter with new friends at a local enoteca. Reflect on the day under the stars with a glass of Chianti.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥖Lunch or light dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🎟️Museum or gallery ticket | $8-15 |
| 🛏️Hotel room (mid-range) | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact and walkable town with easy access to Pisa and the hills
- Good value for money
- Scenic river setting and proximity to Monte Pisano
- Limited nightlife and limited public transport within the town
- Smaller range of attractions compared to larger cities
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Che ore sono?" - What time is it?
Places to Visit in Calcinaia
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunset shots along the Arno river with reflections of the town and bridges.
Old stone facades and narrow lanes with elevated views over the Arno valley.
Food in Calcinaia
Calcinaia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Tuscan soup of bread, beans and vegetables simmered with olive oil.
Must-Try!
Tomato and bread soup with garlic and basil for a comforting rustic dish.
Chickpea flatbread baked to a crisp, a popular street snack in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, cheese, bread and seasonal specialties.
Local flatbread sandwiches with cheese, prosciutto or vegetable fillings for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet with a polite buongiorno or buonasera and make eye contact.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Wait for everyone to be served before starting; use utensils and keep voices at a moderate level in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Calcinaia
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included in restaurants; an extra tip for excellent service is appreciated but not required.
Cash and credit cards are widely accepted; smaller shops may prefer cash; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with bright light; carry water, hat and sunscreen; many outdoor events take place in town squares and along the river.
Milder temperatures and harvest time; great for wine and olive oil tastings and scenic countryside walks.
Cool and sometimes rainy; expect shorter opening hours and cozy indoor meals.
Pleasant temperatures, green landscapes and blooming gardens; ideal for hiking and photography.
Calcinaia at Night
Hiking in Calcinaia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hike near Calci that offers panoramic views of Pisa and the coast on clear days.
A network of trails linking towns around Pisa with varied landscapes and gentle to moderate climbs.
Airports
How to reach Calcinaia by plane.
Closest major airport, about 20-40 minutes by car or train from Calcinaia.
Around one hour by train or car; good for early access to northern Tuscany.
Several hours away by train or car but serve international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families with children reside in Calcinaia, with safe neighborhoods and parks.
Residents often commute to Pisa or Pontedera for work or study.
Day visitors from Pisa and Florence explore the area for a relaxed Tuscan experience.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals; local leagues and match days are common in nearby towns.
Hilly terrain of Monte Pisano offers scenic cycling routes popular with enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calcinaia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose ribollita without meat or pappa al pomodoro and request olive oil and fresh vegetables. Most trattorias can adapt meals and avoid meat broths.