The Best Things to See & Do in Pisa Italy

Are you planning a trip to Pisa and wondering what are the best things to see and do? 
With numerous historic landmarks, public squares and museums, you’ll need some help narrowing down how to spend your time. Here’s a list of the best things to see and do in Pisa, Italy!

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Welcome to the Tuscan village of Pisa! Millions of tourists arrive here every year to witness the world-famous Leaning Tower. It may be the main attraction, but don’t miss out on all the other religious monuments, museums, historic bridges and scenic viewpoints. There is no shortage of things to see and do here!  

There is something to be said about spontaneity while travelling, but there is nothing more satisfying than showing up prepared to a new destination. Preparation not only offers peace of mind, but you’ll have a better chance of snagging deals on flights, booking your preferred accommodation, reserving a table at an in-demand restaurant or getting limited-supply tickets to local attractions. 

Here’s a list of the best things to see and do in Pisa, Italy. Take some time to thoughtfully consider what you would like to experience while you are there, what it will cost and how much time you think you’ll need to fit it all in. Take these essential steps to create memories that will last a lifetime. 

Best Things to See & Do in Pisa 

Use this guide to create a list of your top highlights for visiting Pisa. From there you can make a budget and itinerary, turning your dream vacation into a reality. Planning the trip is almost as exciting as the journey itself. All that will be left to do is pack your bags and decide where to go first! 

1. Leaning Tower of Pisa 

The most famous tower in the world, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, is an absolute must-see attraction. Climb the marble staircase to the top of the bell tower for a tilted view of the city. Capture that iconic photo of yourself holding up the tower.

Book entry tickets online well in advance as reservations often sell out, especially during peak tourist season. The number of visitors per day is limited. 

Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 am – 10:00 pm. 
Cost: €18.00. 

2. Duomo di Pisa

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta (Duomo di Pisa) is located adjacent to the Leaning Tower. Admire the architectural design with its ornate façade, bronze doors and white marble arches. 

Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm. Sunday 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm. 
Cost: Entry is free but a time slot must be reserved as the number of visitors per day is limited. If you have purchased a ticket for the Leaning Tower, you can enter at any time without a reservation.

3. Baptistery

Dedicated to Saint John, the Baptistery stands proudly amongst the Leaning Tower and Duomo di Pisa. Climb to the viewing level to capture a unique perspective of the Square of Miracles. 

Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 am – 8:00 pm. 
Cost: €7.00.

4. Camposanto 

Located in the Square of Miracles, Campo Santo is an ancient burial ground. The walls of the cemetery are decorated with beautiful frescoes. 

Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 8:00 pm. 
Cost: €7.00. 

5. Piazza dei Miracoli 

The Square of Miracles encompasses the Leaning Tower, Duomo (Cathedral), Baptistery and Campo Santo (Cemetery). 

6. Museo dell’Opera del Duomo 

The Cathedral Museum, located near the Square of Miracles, features treasured art collections related to the Duomo and Baptistery. The building also offers stunning views of the Leaning Tower from its huge second floor windows. 

Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 8:00 pm. 
Cost: €7.00.

7. Borgo Stretto

Stroll this narrow street to get a sense of medieval Pisa. Mostly pedestrianized, Borgo Stretto is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants. Explore the many side streets, some of which lead to outdoor markets selling flowers, fruits and vegetables.  

8. Giardino Scotto

Giardino Scotto is a former fortress in Pisa surrounded by historic walls. The area, also known as Citadella Nuova, has been converted into a public park offering a relaxing atmosphere for both locals and tourists. In the summer, the park hosts concerts and an open-air cinema.

Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 7:00 pm. 
Cost: Free. 

9. Iglesia de Santa Maria della Spina

Iglesia de Santa Maria della Spina is a beautiful gothic-style church situated on the Arno Riverbank. Capture its elegance from across the river or pay to enter and view the famous sculptures inside. 

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm & 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm. Closed Monday. 
Cost: €2.00. 

10. Ponte di Mezzo

Ponte di Mezzo (Middle Bridge) crosses the River Arno, connecting the north and south sides of the city. This is likely the bridge that you will cross as you make your way from Pisa Central Train Station to the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles). 

Evenings in Pisa are often spent enjoying scenic views from its bridges while taking a romantic stroll along the lungarnos. Lungarnos are the streets of Pisa that pass beside the riverbank. Here you will find some of the city’s most beautiful and colourful buildings. 

Cost: Free

Day Trips from Pisa

The Italian Riviera and the Tuscan Countryside offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Take advantage of your time while in Pisa, and escape to nearby day-trip destinations. Visit a new city, with new foods, cultural experiences and historical sites. 

1. Cinque Terre

A very popular day trip from Pisa, the Cinque Terre is located only 90 minutes away by train. Comprised of five sea-side villages nestled along the coast of the Italian Riviera, the area is a sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. 

The five villages of the Cinque Terre: 

• Monterosso
• Vernazza
• Corniglia
• Manarola
• Riomaggiore

Book your tour to the Cinque Terre here.

2. Lucca 

Another popular day trip from Pisa, Lucca is located only 30 minutes away by train. Lucca is a charming village, known for its well-preserved medieval walls that surround its historic centre. Italians refer to Lucca as the Città d’arte (City of Art). Spend an afternoon strolling the cobblestone streets. Enjoy a meal on an outdoor terrace as the sun sets. A brief trip to Lucca is a worthwhile experience. 

Places to explore while visiting Lucca:

• Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
• Lucca Cathedral
• Guinigi Tower
• Torre delle Ore (Clock Tower)
• Le Mura di Lucca (Medieval Walls)
• Via Fillungo 

Book your tour to Lucca here.

How to Save Money in Pisa

Here are some of the best ways to save money in Pisa so that you can see and do as much as possible, within budget! 

1. Purchase a Pisa Pass

The Pisa Pass is an entrance and skip-the-line ticket that includes all of the Piazza dei Miracoli monuments:

• Leaning Tower of Pisa 
• Baptistery
• Camposanto (Cemetary) 
• Opera del Duomo Museum
• Sinopie Museum 

It’s cheaper to buy a Pisa Pass than to pay for each monument individually. Avoid paying entrance fees or waiting in long lines at each attraction. Save time and money on your next trip to Pisa. 

Buy your pass online and choose your visit date and time for the Leaning Tower. The Pisa Pass is valid for 1 year from your selected date. Once purchased, tickets will be sent by email. Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the entry time. 

Keep in mind that the climb to the top of the Leaning Tower is 251 steps. There is no elevator. It’s not recommended for people with heart conditions or mobility problems. 

Purchase the Pisa Pass here. 

2. Drink During Happy Hour 

Aperitivo or Happy Hour in Pisa normally takes place between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm. There are plenty of restaurants and wine bars in Pisa worth visiting. Go out for discounted drinks and free appetizers during this time frame to help save money on your trip. 

3. Avoid Tourist Traps

Restaurants located near popular tourist sites, such as the Leaning Tower, are more likely to have inflated prices. Try to find more authentic places that cater to the local Italian crowd. Avoid restaurants that have a host standing outside encouraging you to enter. Any Italian restaurant catering to locals will not have a host on the street. 

Always check the restaurant’s reviews online in advance or join a food tour to ensure that you are getting the best experience. 

4. Stay in Hostels

If you are looking for budget-friendly accommodation, hostels are a great option. Typically, the more people sharing a dormitory the cheaper the cost. It’s also possible to select your room based on gender (male, female or mixed) if you have a preference.

If you are travelling as a couple or with a friend, many hostels also have private room options, which typically cost less than a standard hotel room. You may have to share a bathroom with other guests. 

Hostels often include kitchens, where you have the option to cook your own meals to save money. Hostel staff regularly organize events, such as low-cost cooking classes or city tours, for their guests. Get free access to local advice and insider tips about things to see and places to visit that you may never have found on your own. 

Many hostels are located in the city centre, within walking distance to main attractions. This may help to save money on transportation costs. Staff are typically onsite at all times for added security. Hostel accommodation typically includes lockers or a secured place to store valuables and belongings. 

Hostel common areas are a great location to meet people from all over the world. Share travel stories and create new friendships. This will add value to your experience in a new city!

Book your accommodation in Pisa here.

5. Purchase Travel Insurance

As much as we don’t like to think about it, things can and do go wrong while travelling. Have some peace of mind knowing that you are covered by insurance if something unexpected happens, such an injury, illness or lost luggage. 

SafetyWing is a global travel medical insurance company designed to meet the needs of travellers from all over the world. If you have already left home, it’s not too late to protect yourself. You can still purchase insurance while abroad. 

Consider purchasing travel insurance from SafetyWing for your next trip. You can use the booking widget below to get a quote:

Start Booking Your Trip

Use the helpful resources below to start booking your trip to Pisa, Italy! 

• Reserve your accommodation with Hotels.com or Hostelworld. 
• Book your rental car with Discover Cars.
• Book your flight with SkyScanner.
• Book tours with Get Your Guide. 
• Traveling Solo? Book a Group Tour with GAdventures.
• Buy Travel Insurance with SafetyWing or World Nomads.

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Have any questions about planning your trip to Pisa, Italy? Please share your questions or comments below!