Pisa, Italy
Locavy ratings
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
3.5/5
Value
3.5/5
Transport Links
4.5/5
Experiences
2/5
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
3.5/5
Value
3.5/5
Transport Links
4.5/5
Experiences
2/5
At a glance
Located in the region of Tuscany, Pisa offers an ideal city break destination year-round. Renowned for being the home of one of Europe’s most iconic structures, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, making it a must-see attraction.
Party
Pisa’s nightlife is impressive, offering a diverse range of quirky bars and charming restaurants throughout the city. While the nightclubs in Pisa are predominantly located near the picturesque River Arno and in the historic old town, most vibrant nightlife can be found in Versilia, a coastal town just 10 km away from Pisa. Here, you’ll discover some of Italy’s most exceptional beach clubs.
Sightseeing
Pisa’s sights are among the most renowned in all of Europe. The iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, along with the other remarkable landmarks in the Field of Miracles, creates a truly mesmerizing experience for visitors. Additionally, Pisa offers a convenient hop-on-hop-off bus tour that provides an ideal way to explore the city’s top attractions.
Relaxation
Pisa’s relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a calming city break. The city’s ambiance provides allows you to wander at your own pace, savoring the local culture and picturesque surroundings. Additionally, Pisa is conveniently located near a beautiful beach, providing an excellent opportunity to unwind in the Mediterranean sun.
Value
Pisa is a remarkably budget-friendly destination, particularly when compared to other cities in northern Italy. It’s known for offering affordable accommodations, dining, and activities, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking value. However, it’s essential to be aware that prices tend to rise during the summer months due to increased tourist activity.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
When visiting Pisa, you’ll likely arrive at Pisa International Airport, just 10 minutes from the city center. The airport offers a monorail that provides a direct route to the city. This airport is frequently used by travelers heading to various destinations in the region, which can result in consistently busy conditions.
Train
Pisa Centrale stands as the busiest station in the Tuscany region, with 15 million passengers. The station provides excellent connectivity to major cities through a comprehensive network of high-speed and standard rail routes crisscrossing the country.
Drive
Renting a car can greatly enhance your Pisa experience by facilitating beach visits and exploring neighboring towns and villages. However, if your plans primarily involve staying within Pisa itself, a car is not essential, as the city is easily navigable on foot.
Experiences
Pisa provides a variety of unique experiences, from the iconic climb up the Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of the most famous buildings in Europe. To captivating day trips in Tuscany and the chance to relax on pristine, untouched beaches like Marina di Vecchiano, providing a perfect blend of culture and relaxation for your visit.
Best Things To Do
1. Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa
No visit to Pisa is complete without exploring the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. This architectural marvel, known worldwide, is a must-see, and ascending its spiral staircase provides unforgettable views.
Book your tower climb tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid long queues. Admission starts at €18.
2. Explore Pisa's Old Town
Wander through the enchanting streets of Pisa’s historic Old Town. Lose yourself amidst charming cobblestone lanes, indulge in local cuisine at quaint restaurants, and soak in the picturesque architecture that surrounds you.
Seek out vibrant local markets to discover unique souvenirs and delicious Italian treats.
3. Discover the Perfect Day Trips
Take advantage of Pisa’s strategic location and embark on captivating day trips. Explore the enchanting Tuscan countryside or venture to nearby gems like Florence, just an hour away.
Consider guided day trips to make the most of your excursion and gain insights into the region’s history and culture.
4. Guided Tour of the Field of Miracles
Explore the Field of Miracles, an iconic walled area housing Pisa’s top attractions, including the Leaning Tower, the Duomo, and the Baptistery. A guided tour enhances your experience by providing historical context.
Guided tours offer a deeper understanding of the historical and architectural significance of these iconic landmarks.
5. Relax at the Beach
For a change of pace, spend a day at the beach, with Marina di Vecchiano being a popular choice, located about 15 km from the city center. Soak up the sun and enjoy the calming waters of the Mediterranean.
Plan your beach day in advance, including transportation, as some beaches may require a short journey from the city.
6. Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
Experience Pisa’s highlights aboard a convenient hop-on-hop-off bus tour. This well-designed route allows you to explore the city’s top attractions while learning about their historical and cultural significance.
Purchase a day pass for the bus tour to maximize your flexibility and access to key points of interest.
7. Visit the Palazzo Blu
Discover the Palazzo Blu, known for its distinctive blue facade and home to a remarkable art gallery. Marvel at unique art pieces and the gallery’s beautiful architecture.
Check for special exhibitions or events at Palazzo Blu during your visit for an enhanced experience.
8. Hiking Trails in the Tuscan Countryside
Unwind and connect with nature by exploring hiking trails in the Tuscan countryside. Enjoy scenic walks that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Pack comfortable shoes and water for your hike and choose a trail that matches your fitness level.
9. Explore Pisa's Cathedral
Pisa’s cathedral, situated in the Field of Miracles, is a masterpiece of architecture and art. Entry is free when purchasing tickets for other attractions in the area.
Combine your cathedral visit with exploring the nearby Leaning Tower and Baptistery to make the most of your visit.
10. Visit the Piazza dei Cavalieri
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Piazza dei Cavalieri, a beautiful city square that hosts various events and markets throughout the year, making it an excellent spot for people-watching.
Check the local event calendar for festivals, markets, or cultural events that may coincide with your visit to the square.
1. Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa
No visit to Pisa is complete without exploring the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. This architectural marvel, known worldwide, is a must-see, and ascending its spiral staircase provides unforgettable views.
Book your tower climb tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid long queues. Admission starts at €18.
2. Explore Pisa's Old Town
Wander through the enchanting streets of Pisa’s historic Old Town. Lose yourself amidst charming cobblestone lanes, indulge in local cuisine at quaint restaurants, and soak in the picturesque architecture that surrounds you.
Seek out vibrant local markets to discover unique souvenirs and delicious Italian treats.
3. Discover the Perfect Day Trips
Take advantage of Pisa’s strategic location and embark on captivating day trips. Explore the enchanting Tuscan countryside or venture to nearby gems like Florence, just an hour away.
Consider guided day trips to make the most of your excursion and gain insights into the region’s history and culture.
4. Guided Tour of the Field of Miracles
Explore the Field of Miracles, an iconic walled area housing Pisa’s top attractions, including the Leaning Tower, the Duomo, and the Baptistery. A guided tour enhances your experience by providing historical context.
Guided tours offer a deeper understanding of the historical and architectural significance of these iconic landmarks.
5. Relax at the Beach
For a change of pace, spend a day at the beach, with Marina di Vecchiano being a popular choice, located about 15 km from the city center. Soak up the sun and enjoy the calming waters of the Mediterranean.
Plan your beach day in advance, including transportation, as some beaches may require a short journey from the city.
6. Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
Experience Pisa’s highlights aboard a convenient hop-on-hop-off bus tour. This well-designed route allows you to explore the city’s top attractions while learning about their historical and cultural significance.
Purchase a day pass for the bus tour to maximize your flexibility and access to key points of interest.
7. Visit the Palazzo Blu
Discover the Palazzo Blu, known for its distinctive blue facade and home to a remarkable art gallery. Marvel at unique art pieces and the gallery’s beautiful architecture.
Check for special exhibitions or events at Palazzo Blu during your visit for an enhanced experience.
8. Hiking Trails in the Tuscan Countryside
Unwind and connect with nature by exploring hiking trails in the Tuscan countryside. Enjoy scenic walks that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Pack comfortable shoes and water for your hike and choose a trail that matches your fitness level.
9. Explore Pisa's Cathedral
Pisa’s cathedral, situated in the Field of Miracles, is a masterpiece of architecture and art. Entry is free when purchasing tickets for other attractions in the area.
Combine your cathedral visit with exploring the nearby Leaning Tower and Baptistery to make the most of your visit.
10. Visit the Piazza dei Cavalieri
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Piazza dei Cavalieri, a beautiful city square that hosts various events and markets throughout the year, making it an excellent spot for people-watching.
Check the local event calendar for festivals, markets, or cultural events that may coincide with your visit to the square.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Discover More Than the Leaning Tower
Pisa offers a wealth of attractions beyond the famous Leaning Tower, such as the stunning Pisa Cathedral and the historic Piazza dei Cavalieri, so be sure to explore the city further.
6.
Walkability in Pisa
With its compact size, Pisa is a very walkable city. You’ll find that most of the main attractions, restaurants, and bars are easily accessible by foot.
2.
Secure Tickets in Advance
To avoid long lines and potential sold-out situations, it’s a good idea to purchase tickets for major sights, especially in the Field of Miracles, ahead of your visit.
7.
Opt for Central Accommodation
When booking your stay, aim for accommodations in the city center. This ensures proximity to major attractions, restaurants, and the vibrant atmosphere of central Pisa.
3.
Beware of Scams
Exercise caution against common scams, including overcharging taxi drivers and individuals offering unsolicited assistance in buying tickets and then demanding payment for their services.
8.
Safety in Pisa
Pisa is generally a safe city, especially for solo travelers, with a low crime rate comparable to other cities in the region. Nevertheless, exercise standard safety precautions, especially in crowded areas where pickpocketing can occur.
4.
Ideal for a Weekend Getaway
Pisa is perfect for a 2-3 day trip, but for longer stays, consider exploring the broader Tuscan region, including Florence and Siena.
9.
Card Payments Accepted
You won’t need to carry much cash while in Pisa since credit and debit cards are widely accepted across the city.
5.
Summer Pricing in Pisa
Keep in mind that during the summer season, prices for attractions and dining establishments tend to increase, so budget accordingly.
10.
Vibrant Student Life
The presence of the University of Pisa, one of Italy’s renowned universities, contributes to a vibrant student culture in Pisa. You’ll find many affordable dining options and a vibrant nightlife scene.
6.
Walkability in Pisa
With its compact size, Pisa is a very walkable city. You’ll find that most of the main attractions, restaurants, and bars are easily accessible by foot.
7.
Opt for Central Accommodation
When booking your stay, aim for accommodations in the city center. This ensures proximity to major attractions, restaurants, and the vibrant atmosphere of central Pisa.
8.
Safety in Pisa
Pisa is generally a safe city, especially for solo travelers, with a low crime rate comparable to other cities in the region. Nevertheless, exercise standard safety precautions, especially in crowded areas where pickpocketing can occur.
9.
Card Payments Accepted
You won’t need to carry much cash while in Pisa since credit and debit cards are widely accepted across the city.
10.
Vibrant Student Life
The presence of the University of Pisa, one of Italy’s renowned universities, contributes to a vibrant student culture in Pisa. You’ll find many affordable dining options and a vibrant nightlife scene.