15x what to do in Pisa, Italy

You probably know Pisa for its world-famous leaning tower. But if you think that's all there is to it, you're mistaken. Pisa is compact, lively, surprisingly versatile, and therefore perfect for a day trip or short city break.

Are you planning a trip from your vacation home in Italy? Or have you simply planned a city break? These 15 tips will take you to places that go beyond the tower alone.

1. The Leaning Tower of Pisa (Torre Pendente)

Let's be honest: this is why you're here. The famous tower is part of the Piazza dei Miracoli and remains impressive, even if you've seen it a thousand times in photos. You can climb it, provided you're not afraid of heights. Be sure to book in advance.

2. Piazza dei Miracoli

This square is also home to the magnificent cathedral (Duomo), the baptistery (Battistero), and the Camposanto (cemetery with impressive frescoes). Everything glows white against the clear blue Tuscan sky.

3. Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

In this museum, you can see original works of art that once hung in the cathedral, ranging from Gothic sculptures to medieval paintings. It is also wonderfully peaceful compared to the tower.

4. Walking along the Lungarno

The Arno flows right through Pisa, and the Lungarno is the boulevard that runs along the river. It's the perfect place to leave the hustle and bustle of the square behind you. This is a particularly beautiful walking route at sunset.

5. Santa Maria della Spina

A tiny Gothic church on the Arno. So detailed and fairy-tale-like that you almost think it's fake. But no, this is Pisa at its most charming.

6. The botanical garden (Orto Botanico)

Did you know that Pisa has one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe? Exotic plants, herbs, and trees have been growing here since 1544. It's wonderfully cool on a hot day.

7. Street art by Keith Haring

Not a Tuscan church, but a gigantic, colorful work of art by Keith Haring on the side of Sant’Antonio Abate. Children often love it. Bonus: free and photogenic.

8. Torre dei Gualandi

For those who love viewpoints: climb this tower (Palazzo dell'Orologio) in the old town. Less well known than its leaning counterpart, but just as beautiful. And much quieter.

9. Get fresh focaccia at the markt

Every Wednesday and Saturday there is a market in the Piazza delle Vettovaglie. Local products, vintage clothing, olives, cheese, you name it. Go early, when it's not too hot or too crowded.

10. Taste Pisa on a terrace 

Pisa is a student city, and you can feel it in the atmosphere. In squares such as Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza delle Nettoverlies, you will find countless cozy cafes, wine bars, and gelaterias. Just sit down. People watch. Enjoy. 

11. Day trip: beach or mountains 

From Pisa, you can easily reach the beach (for example, in Marina di Pisa or Viareggio) or head inland to the Tuscan hills. Take the car and explore. This is an ideal location for day trips.

12. The university of Pisa

One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. Students give the city its liveliness. Visit the historic building and the library. If you love books and atmosphere, this is a must-see.

13. Museum San Matteo

Are you a fan of medieval art? Then this museum is a hidden gem. Small-scale, well-organized, and with an impressive collection of icons, paintings, and sculptures.

14. Rent a bike and see more

Pisa is flat and bike-friendly. Rent a bike and discover the city at your own pace. Or ride out of the city towards green hills and small villages. Within 20 minutes, you'll be surrounded by cypress trees.

15. Stay overnight in the area

Pisa is fun for a day, but even more fun if you stay nearby and visit the city in the morning or evening, when the buses full of tourists have disappeared.

Useful tips for your visit to Pisa

•    Book tickets for the tower online in advance
•    Visit Piazza dei Miracoli early or late in the day
•    Park outside the city center and walk or cycle to the highlights
•    Combine Pisa with a visit to Lucca or Florence
•    Don't forget to sit down and relax every now and then. Pisa is more relaxed than you think

Pisa is much more than just the tower 

Pisa is compact, surprising, and versatile. Perfect for a day trip, ideal for a weekend, and easy to combine with a stay in a quiet holiday house in the area. So, let yourself be surprised by Tuscan flair, Italian street life, and the charm of a city that has so much more to offer than just that famous leaning tower.

Ciao Pisa!