Things To Do
in San Giuliano Terme

San Giuliano Terme sits on the slopes above Pisa, blending thermal heritage with Tuscan countryside. The town is known for its spa culture, leafy streets, and easy access to Pisa’s monuments. Visitors enjoy a quiet base with green hills, thermal pools, and quick trips to the Arno river and the coast.

The surrounding area offers a mix of historic churches, markets, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the plains and the Tuscan hills.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and rich Italian coffee. After your meal, take a stroll through the charming streets of San Giuliano Terme, admiring the traditional architecture and vibrant flower boxes. Visit the nearby Church of San Giuliano, where you can appreciate the intricate frescoes and soak in the serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, indulge in a delicious lunch at a trattoria, sampling regional specialties like tortelli lucchese. Post-lunch, make your way to the historic thermal baths to experience the rejuvenating properties of the mineral-rich waters. Relax in the outdoor thermal pools while surrounded by picturesque views of the Tuscan countryside.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Italian dinner at a local restaurant known for its rustic ambiance. Try some local wines paired with freshly prepared dishes that highlight the flavors of Tuscany. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the Serchio River, enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature.

day 2
Cultural Immersion at Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the bustling San Giuliano Terme market, where you can browse through stalls filled with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts. Engage with local vendors and learn about the traditional products unique to the region. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local cheeses and cured meats as you explore.

afternoon
:

After the market, grab a quick lunch at a nearby café, enjoying a panini or pizza made with fresh ingredients. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby town of Lucca, known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls and charming cobblestone streets. Explore the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro and take in the sights while enjoying a gelato from a local gelateria.

evening
:

Return to San Giuliano for a delightful dinner at a family-run osteria, where you can taste homemade pasta dishes. Engage with the locals, sharing stories and enjoying the warm hospitality of the restaurant. End your night with a glass of vin santo, a traditional dessert wine, paired with cantucci biscuits.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-$18
Coffee$2-$4
🧀Milk or dairy products (1L)$1-$2
🚆Public transit monthly pass$35-$60
🎟️Museum or attraction ticket$12-$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to Pisa and the coast
  • Thermal baths and green hills
  • Small town feel may mean fewer nightlife options
  • Limited direct international flight connections
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Per favore, dove è?" - Please, where is...?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Un tavolo per due, per favore." - A table for two, please.
  • "Il conto, per favore." - The check, please.

Places to Visit in San Giuliano Terme

Visit one of these nice places.

Arno river viewpoints near San Giuliano Terme

Quiet riverbank views with rolling hills and bridges, especially at sunset.

Piazza dei Miracoli and Leaning Tower (Pisa)

Iconic architecture with the tower rising above the cathedral square.

Monte Serra viewpoints

Wide panoramas of Pisa plain, coast and distant hills from the hills above town.

Migliarino-San Rossore coastal reserve

Dunes and marsh landscapes ideal for nature photography and wildlife.

Lungarno lanes and historic arches in Pisa

Colorful facades and reflections along the Arno.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Giuliano Terme

San Giuliano Terme offers simple Tuscan flavors with easy access to Pisa and the coast. Expect fresh ingredients, olive oil, and regional wines in welcoming trattorie and cafes.

San Giuliano Terme Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Crostini toscani

Toasted bread with a liver pâté and herbs, a classic Tuscan starter found in many trattorie.

Must-Try!

Zuppa di ceci

A hearty chickpea soup flavored with rosemary and olive oil.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

Grilled T-bone steak cooked rare, a centerpiece for Tuscan meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Pisa (Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II)

Weekly market with fruit, vegetables, cheese, bread and street snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area has a temperate Mediterranean climate with hot summers, mild springs and autumns, and cool winters with occasional rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress modestly in churches

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.

Greetings

A polite handshake is common; greetings are important in daily interactions.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, especially for tours and dinners.

Safety Guide

Safety

Standard travel safety applies. Keep valuables secure, watch for traffic when crossing streets, and follow local guidance during weather events.

Tipping in San Giuliano Terme

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service charge is not always included; rounding up or 5-10% for good service is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards widely accepted; cash is handy for small shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild, green landscapes, pleasant for outdoor exploring and markets.

Summer

Warm to hot days, beach trips on the coast, long evenings and festas.

Autumn

Cooling temperatures, harvest flavors, good light for photography.

Winter

Cool with occasional rain; many sites comfortable for sightseeing with fewer crowds.

Nightlife Guide

San Giuliano Terme at Night

San Giuliano Terme itself has a calm, local scene with family run bars and seasonal events; Pisa's university area offers more bars and clubs within easy reach for a livelier night out.

Hiking in San Giuliano Terme

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monte Serra Trail

Steep but rewarding hill climb with panoramic views.

Migliarino coast dune walk

Coastal path through dunes and wetlands.

Airports

How to reach San Giuliano Terme by plane.

Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei)

Main gateway for travelers to the region, about a 20-30 minute drive to San Giuliano Terme.

Getting Around

Walkability

San Giuliano Terme is very walkable in the town center and well connected by bus to Pisa and the railway station; the surrounding countryside is best explored by bike or car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

Families, retirees and local workers form the core community.

Students

Universities in Pisa bring students to the region, adding a lively daytime presence.

Tourists

Visitors mainly seeking spa experiences, nature, and Pisa's world-famous sights.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Calcio (soccer)

Popular among locals with regional teams and school leagues.

Cycling

Extensive bike routes along rivers and hills.

Swimming and spa wellness

Thermal baths and resort pools for relaxation.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is manageable in the town; for longer trips, regional trains and buses connect to Pisa, Lucca and coastal towns. Parking can be limited in peak hours; use park and ride if possible.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Giuliano Terme.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common in trattorie; look for ribollita, pappa al pomodoro and bruschette.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is provided by the Italian National Health Service (SSN). In Pisa there are hospitals like Ospedale Cisanello and Ospedale Santa Chiara; emergency number is 112. Pharmacies are common in town centers.

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