Travel Tips for Pisa, Italy

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Pisa, nestled in the heart of Tuscany, is best known for its iconic Leaning Tower, but there’s so much more to this historic city! Pisa is rich in medieval architecture, lively piazzas and Tuscan charm. It is compact, walkable and filled with student energy thanks to its university.

It is perfect for a day trip (what I did) or a laid-back couple of nights. Here are my amazing travel tips!

HOW TO GET THERE

If you want to fly to Pisa, you travel via Ryanair from Dublin Airport to Galileo Galilei International Airport (PSA), which is just 10–15 minutes from the city centre.

Pisa is also easily accessible by train from Florence (1 hour), Rome (3 hours), and other parts of Tuscany. Pisa Centrale is the main train station.

If you’re road-tripping via a car through Tuscany (like me!), just a reminder that parking can be tricky. Make sure to look for public lots outside the ZTL (limited traffic zones).

LANGUAGE, CURRENCY & WEATHER

Italian is the official language in Pisa, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. The Euro (€) is the main currency, and you can use your credit card, but have some cash for cafés or markets.

I visited in April and the weather was pleasant and sunny. It was ideal for walking around sightseeing. During the summer time Pisa can be quite hot and crowded.

Another great time to visit is the autumn, when the weather is milder. The winter in Pisa is cooler with occasional rain.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Pisa is a very walkable city, and I explored most of the attractions in one day as they are within 15–20 minutes of each other. If you want to use public transport, CPT buses serve the city and suburbs. Tickets can be bought at tobacco shops (tabacchi) or vending machines. For getting to the airport, the PisaMover shuttle train runs every few minutes between the airport and Pisa Centrale station.

WHERE TO STAY

I did not stay in Pisa, so I cannot recommend exact places. However! Here are my tips on the areas you could stay in.

Near the Leaning Tower: This is great if you want to be steps from the action, though prices are higher.

San Martino District: This is close to the Arno River and train station. It has more of a local vibe and it is quieter in the evenings.

If you are on a budget, consider staying in a nearby city like Lucca or Florence and take a day-trip to Pisa.

WHERE TO GO & WHAT TO DO

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is top of my list for obvious reasons. Make sure to book tickets in advance if you want to climb it. If you are looking for some stunning medieval architecture, then visit Piazza dei Miracoli. This is home to the Cathedral, Baptistery and the Tower.

Take a walk along the Arno River. This offers picturesque views and there are fewer tourists around.

Visit Camposanto Monumentale which is a peaceful and beautiful cemetery with ancient frescoes. Museo dell’Opera del Duomo has art and treasures from the cathedral complex.

WHAT & WHERE TO EAT

While I only had a day in Pisa, I did manage to fit in some time for delicious food! I stopped by Osteria di Culegna which has amazing authentic Tuscan cuisine. I tried the Pappardelle al cinghiale (thank me later!). Make sure to also try a glass of Chianti or Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine.

After dinner I travelled to Gelateria De’ Coltelli for some of the best gelato in town.

The locals also recommended La Taverna di Pulcinella which has great pizza and a casual atmosphere, as well as Trattoria da Stelio. This is affordable and has hearty pasta dishes and homey vibes.

Pisa may be small, but it packs in a lot of culture, history, and flavor. Buon viaggio!