Highlights from Pisa

  • Seeing the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa for the first time
  • Climbing to the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa and seeing the whole city
  • Being there for the 850th anniversary of the Tower, which included seeing a live pianist

About Pisa

Pisa is a charming city in the Tuscany region of Italy, famous worldwide for its iconic Leaning Tower. Beyond the tower, Pisa offers rich history, beautiful architecture, lively piazzas, and a vibrant student culture thanks to the University of Pisa. The city sits along the Arno River, giving it a scenic backdrop of bridges and historic buildings. While many travelers visit Pisa as a day trip from Florence or Lucca, spending a night or two allows you to explore hidden gems and soak in the Tuscan atmosphere.

The Top Things to Do in Pisa

Pisa is a small Italian city, but I loved it there. It was definitely a bit touristy because of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but it still had a charm to it. There is plenty to do aside from just seeing the tower, but that is certainly a main highlight.

Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa

This iconic landmark is a huge draw to visiting Pisa, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing it in person. It's also entertaining to be in the piazza and see all the people taking Instagrammable pictures with the tower.

Plus if you buy a ticket, you can climb to the top and see the entire city. This was a unique experience because climbing a staircase that's leaning is a strange feeling. I highly recommend it if you're able to. There is no elevator.

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Walk along the Arno river

The buildings lining the river are colorful and cute. I really enjoyed walking along the river, feeling the breeze. There are shops and restaurants you can go to that feel less like tourist traps.

Where to Stay in Pisa

Pisa has accommodation options to suit all types of travelers, from budget-friendly hostels to boutique hotels and charming bed and breakfasts.

Luxury: Stay near Piazza dei Miracoli for prime views and easy access to major attractions.

Mid-range: Hotels near the train station are convenient for day trips to Florence, Lucca, or Cinque Terre.

Budget: Hostels and guesthouses in the city center offer affordability without sacrificing charm.

Pro tip: Pisa is small and walkable, so choosing accommodation near the center will save travel time.

Travel Tips for Visiting Pisa

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) and early fall (September-October) for mild weather and fewer crowds.

Getting Around: Pisa is very walkable. The central attractions are close together, and trains connect Pisa to nearby Tuscan cities.

Tickets & Tours: Book Leaning Tower tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot. Consider guided walking tours for historical context.

Food & Drink: Don’t miss trying local Tuscan dishes like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and fresh gelato.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs about Pisa

How far is Pisa from Florence?

Pisa is about 1 hour by train from Florence, making it perfect for a day trip.

Can I visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa?

Yes! Tickets are required for climbing the tower, and reservations in advance are highly recommended. If you're able to climb over 200 stairs, I highly recommend going to the top to see the whole city.

Is Pisa worth visiting beyond the Leaning Tower?

Absolutely. Pisa offers museums, river walks, beautiful piazzas, and a lively local atmosphere beyond the iconic tower.

How many days should I spend in Pisa?

2-3 days is ideal for exploring the main sights, wandering the streets, and enjoying local food.