Things To Do
in Pisa
Pisa sits along the Arno River in Tuscany and is famous for its world-class Leaning Tower within the Piazza dei Miracoli. The city blends medieval architecture with a lively university atmosphere and a riverside promenade. Its compact historic center makes it easy to walk between monuments, cafés, and markets.
Beyond the Tower, Pisa offers gardens, museums, and scenic views along the Arno and Lungarno streets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Piazza dei Miracoli, marveling at the stunning architecture of the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Cathedral. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh pastries and Italian coffee. As the morning sun illuminates the intricate details, take time to capture the perfect photos of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Wander through the charming streets of the historic center, discovering quaint shops and local artisans. Visit the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo to delve deeper into the history of these magnificent structures. Enjoy lunch at a traditional trattoria, where you can sample authentic Tuscan cuisine, such as ribollita or pici pasta.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in the Piazza dei Cavalieri, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this lively square. Dine at a local restaurant, sampling regional wines and delectable dishes while enjoying the evening ambiance. Afterward, take a stroll along the Arno River, where you can appreciate the illuminated bridges and the reflections on the water.
Begin your day at the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo, where you can admire an impressive collection of Tuscan art from the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Spend time exploring the museum's unique exhibits, including stunning paintings and sculptures. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely coffee at a nearby café, soaking in the local culture.
Head to the Botanical Garden of Pisa, an oasis of tranquility filled with diverse plant species and beautiful landscaping. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and learning about the various plants. For lunch, indulge in some gelato from a famous local gelateria while exploring the nearby streets.
Experience a theatrical performance at the Teatro Verdi, where you can enjoy local talent in an atmospheric setting. Before the show, have dinner at a nearby ristorante, where you can taste authentic Pisan dishes. After the performance, take a stroll back through the historic streets, soaking in the night-time charm of Pisa.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚇One-way local transit ticket | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of wine or beer | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic landmarks and compact city center ideal for walking
- Rich Tuscan cuisine with coastal influences and seafood
- Strong university atmosphere with vibrant, youthful energy
- Cozy riverside and sunset views along the Arno
- Crowds around main sights during peak season
- Fewer large-scale nightlife venues compared to bigger cities
- Limited beachfront within city limits compared with other Tuscan towns
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è...?" - Where is...
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Pisa
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic marbled ensemble with the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, Baptistery, and Campo Santo—perfect for wide-angle shots.
The famous tilt against the sky; early morning or late afternoon light is best for avoiding crowds.
Classic riverside views with reflections of bridges and pastel façades along the water.
Intricate arches and medieval sculpture set in dramatic light inside and outside.
Scenic riverfront with boats, arches, and cafes offering sunset photo opportunities.
Food in Pisa
Pisa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savory chickpea pancake, crisp around the edges and seasoned with olive oil and rosemary.
Must-Try!
Tomato and bread soup, served warm with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Thick Tuscan bread and vegetable soup, a hearty crowd-pleaser in trattorias.
A rich seafood stew from nearby Livorno, best enjoyed with rustic bread and a glass of white wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and informal bites from local stalls.
Grab a quick panino or fried seafood along the riverfront, finish with a scoop of gelato.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Start with a polite buongiorno or buonasera; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; quiet conversation and no loud behavior.
Eating is often leisurely; keep hands visible and avoid rushing staff.
Safety
Tipping in Pisa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% in nicer restaurants is common if service is good.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; many venues add a service charge; carry some cash for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming squares; great for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Hot and sunny; expect crowds around major sights. Stay hydrated and seek shade in the afternoons.
Pleasant weather with fewer tourists; ideal for slower sightseeing and day trips to nearby Tuscan towns.
Mild but occasionally rainy; sightseeing remains comfortable with fewer queues.
Pisa at Night
Hiking in Pisa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Circular or out-and-back trails through pine forests with views over Pisa and the coast.
A network of forest trails along rolling hills, ideal for a half-day hike near Pisa.
Airports
How to reach Pisa by plane.
Pisa’s main airport, a short drive or train ride from the city center with domestic and international flights.
Also known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport; about an hour by train or car, offering connections to Florence and Tuscany.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large presence from the University of Pisa contributes to a youthful, international atmosphere.
Families and professionals who live in the city center and surrounding towns.
Visitors drawn to the Leaning Tower and riverfront sights.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Pisa has a local football culture and fans; nearby stadiums host matches and events.
Flat and hilly routes around Pisa and the Monte Pisano area make cycling a popular activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pisa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Pisa. Look for ribollita, vegetable-based pastas, and salads; when unsure, ask for no meat stock or bone broth.