Things To Do
in Pisa
Pisa is a charming city located in the Tuscany region of Italy. Its most famous attraction is the Leaning Tower of Pisa, a bell tower known for its distinctive tilt. In addition to the tower, Pisa is home to beautiful historic buildings, picturesque squares, and lovely cobblestone streets.
The city also has a rich cultural heritage, with many museums, galleries, and theaters for visitors to explore.
- "Ciao" - Hello
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Don't forget to snap some photos and enjoy the surrounding Square of Miracles.
Visit the stunning Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery nearby. Take some time to relax at a café and enjoy authentic Italian gelato.
Head to the Arno River for a peaceful evening stroll. Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant with local specialties.
Explore the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo to learn about the history of the city’s architectural masterpieces. Marvel at the intricate sculptures and historical artifacts.
Visit the Botanical Gardens of Pisa, one of the oldest in Europe. Stroll through its beautiful greenery and relax in the tranquil environment.
Enjoy the sunset from the Old Bridge, a perfect spot for picturesque views. Savor a delicious Tuscan dinner at a nearby trattoria.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural significance, with landmarks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
- Beautiful architecture and charming streets.
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate.
- Vibrant local cuisine with unique Tuscan flavors.
- Excellent access to other cities in Tuscany and beyond.
- Tourist crowds can make popular sites overwhelming, especially in peak season.
- Higher cost of living compared to other towns in Italy.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger Italian cities.
- Can feel small and quiet for those used to larger urban environments.
- Public transport options may be less frequent or limited compared to major cities.
Best Activities in Pisa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the iconic Leaning Tower and take a tour to appreciate its unique architecture.
Explore the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, and Baptistry.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the beautiful Botanical Garden, which houses a diverse collection of plants.
Take a relaxing walk along the scenic Lungarni, a series of picturesque riverside streets.
Embark on a cycling tour through the picturesque Tuscan countryside surrounding Pisa.
Tours
Uncover the best of Pisa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Pisa
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the city and surrounding area from the top of the tower.
Beautiful open square featuring the Leaning Tower, the cathedral, and the baptistery, providing picturesque photo opportunities.
Riverside park offering scenic views of the Arno River and the city skyline, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Historic bridge spanning the Arno River with captivating views of the city and its landmarks, ideal for capturing stunning images.
Food in Pisa
Pisa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved local dish featuring salted cod stewed with tomatoes, pine nuts, and raisins, delivering a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. It's commonly served at authentic trattorias around Pisa, such as Trattoria da Bruno.
Must-Try!
Also known as farinata, this savory chickpea flour pancake is a local street food staple, often served hot and seasoned with a sprinkle of black pepper. For an authentic taste, visit La Cecina Toscana for their renowned cecina.
These delicious fried dough strips are a popular snack or appetizer, perfect for enjoying with a sprinkle of salt. You can savor the best sgabei at Antica Trattoria Il Campano.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Pisa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and other gastronomic specialties. It's a perfect place to explore and sample regional products while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
While strolling through Pisa's streets, be sure to seek out various street food vendors offering treats like lampredotto (tripe sandwich), panini, and gelato. The area around the Leaning Tower in Piazza del Duomo is especially rich in street food options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Pisa, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when interacting in public spaces.
When greeting others in Pisa, a handshake is a common form of greeting. It is also polite to maintain eye contact and use appropriate body language when communicating.
When dining in Pisa, it is customary to wait for the host to make the first toast before taking a sip of your drink. Additionally, it is considered polite to keep your hands on the table and to avoid resting your elbows on the table.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Pisa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Pisa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Pisa, Italy, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated. A service charge may be included in the bill at restaurants, but it is customary to leave some small change as a token of appreciation for good service.
In Pisa, Italy, cash is widely used for smaller transactions, but credit and debit cards are generally accepted at larger establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and when visiting local markets or smaller shops.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Pisa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Pisa, as the weather is mild and the city is in full bloom with colorful flowers. This season is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city without the crowds of summer.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Pisa, with hot weather and crowded attractions. Expect long lines at popular sites like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but you'll also enjoy lively street festivals and outdoor events.
Autumn brings mild weather and fewer tourists, making it a pleasant time to visit Pisa. The fall foliage adds a beautiful backdrop to the city, and you can experience local food and wine festivals during this season.
Winter is the quietest time in Pisa, with cool temperatures and occasional rainfall. While some attractions may have reduced hours, you can still enjoy a more peaceful visit and experience local holiday traditions.
Pisa at Night
Hiking in Pisa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A natural park featuring diverse landscapes, including forests, dunes, and coastline. Ideal for hiking with various trails that give access to the Tuscan coastline.
A mountain near Pisa with a series of hiking trails that offer stunning views over the surrounding area and the opportunity to explore local flora and fauna.
Located in the nearby hills, these waterfalls provide a picturesque setting for hiking and enjoying nature's beauty. The trails vary from easy to moderate difficulty.
The Pisan Hills are perfect for hiking with scenic paths that wind through vineyards and olive groves, offering panoramic views of the countryside.
A beautiful valley featuring rugged mountains and hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. Great for both casual walkers and experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Pisa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Pisa by plane.
Located approximately 80 kilometers from Pisa, Florence Airport serves both domestic and international flights.
About 150 kilometers from Pisa, Bologna Airport is one of the largest airports in the Emilia-Romagna region, providing numerous international connections.
Located within Pisa itself, this is the main airport serving the city and offers various international flights.
Located about 180 kilometers from Pisa, Genoa Airport serves domestic and European destinations.
Approximately 280 kilometers from Pisa, Fiumicino is the largest airport in Italy and a major international hub.
Around 300 kilometers from Pisa, Malpensa is one of the main international airports serving Milan and northern Italy.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Pisa, consisting of citizens who are native to Italy.
A significant demographic made up of citizens from other EU countries living in Pisa.
A large group, especially due to the presence of the University of Pisa, attracting students from various countries.
Individuals from outside the EU, including those from North Africa, Asia, and America.
A demographic group that includes older adults, often retired individuals living in Pisa.
The Soul of Pisa
Discover the essence of Pisa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Pisa, with local clubs like A.C. Pisa 1909 competing in professional leagues.
Basketball has a strong following in Pisa, with local teams participating in regional leagues and events.
Athletics, including track and field events, is popular in Pisa, with various clubs promoting youth involvement and competition.
Volleyball is commonly played in Pisa, both at the recreational and competitive levels, with several clubs and leagues.
Cycling is popular in Pisa, thanks to the city’s flat terrain and scenic routes, making it a favored activity for both locals and visitors.
Rowing has historical significance in Pisa due to its location along the Arno River, and it remains a sport enjoyed by many.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pisa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Pisa's dining scene is well-prepared to cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences, with many restaurants offering a range of plant-based dishes that celebrate the region's fresh produce and culinary creativity. La Taverna di Pulcinella and Ristorante Galileo are particularly recommended for their diverse vegetarian and vegan menus.
Visitors with gluten-free requirements will find several accommodating eateries in Pisa, such as Osteria Bernardo and Ristorante Enoteca Zero81, both known for their gluten-free pasta and other gluten-free specialties.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Pisa with these cultural adventures.