Pisa is the perfect spot for a day trip, ideally a stop in-between two other destinations. We stopped in Pisa on our way from Cinque Terre to Florence. It was the perfect spot to hop off the train for a few hours, go see the major attractions, grab lunch and then continue on with our trip. At most you should stay one night in Pisa. There’s just not that much outside of the four major attractions that all sit within the Square of Miracles – The Leaning Tower of Pisa, The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, The Baptistery and Campo Santo.
Things to do in Pisa
Leaning Tower of Pisa
Nothing much to say about this 12th-century tower, other than to tell you that you should try to climb to the top for a surreal view of the tilted city below.
Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
Oftentimes overshadowed by the adjacent leaning tower, this beautiful structure should not be missed when visiting Pisa. This cathedral was built in 1092. While it’s outside is truly ornate, the interior is absolutely magnificent. Make sure to head inside and admire its golden ceiling and fresco of the Assumption of Mary
The Baptistery
A worthy attraction in its own right that is once again all too often overshadowed by the leaning tower that sits in the same square. This giant dome stands 54m high and has opulent decorations filling its interior.
Campo Santo
The final structure of note within the Square of Miracles is Campo Santo, the Monumental Cemetery of Pisa. Known for its stunning courtyard, the Campo Santo is filled with beautiful frescos.
Museo Nazionale
If you are going to visit a museum while in Pisa, make it the Museo Nazionale. With original sculptures from the Cathedral and Baptistery as well as paintings dating back to the 12th century.
Santa Maria della Spina
Directly across the Arno River from the Museo Nazionale is the tiny church of Santa Maria della Spina. The church is more beautiful from the outside than from its modest interior, but it’s worth a short stop if you’re walking through.
Palazzo dei Cavalieri
The Knights Square, in English, is one of the main squares in Pisa. It has a beautiful palace that forms its main backdrop. The front facade of which is quite beautiful. Take note of the statues of the Dukes of Tuscany that decorate the palace.
Where to Eat in Pisa
Osteria I Santi
Of all the touristy places that sit in the shadow of the leaning tower this is by far the best for classic Tuscan dishes and good, homemade Italian cuisine at reasonable prices. If you’re going to simply grab lunch around the tower, go to Osteria I Santi.
Spaghetteria alle Bandierine
If you are a spaghetti lover, this is a must stop on any journey through Pisa. This place specializes in handmade spaghetti and has every type of spaghetti dish you could possibly imagine.
La Spigolatrice
If you want to eat one of Pisa’s best pizzas while drinking an ice cold Peroni and possibly even a dessert for 15 euros, this is the perfect spot for you to stop.
Restaurant Del Parco in Tirrenia Green Park Resort
If you’re looking for a more high-end, Michelin-starred style restaurant featuring wildly innovative dishes with things like sea urchin ice cream on the menu, then this is the spot for you. It’s popular with locals and regularly booked well in advance so make reservations early. Don’t expect to find authentic, local homemade favorites here. The menu is decidedly innovative and interesting.
Osteria La Grotta
Known for its stunning grotto/cave-like interior, La Grotta is one of Pisa’s best restaurants. The menu is simple, but the dishes are executed perfectly. Make reservations in advance or get there early because this tiny restaurant fills up quickly.
Antica Trattoria Il Campano
This ancient trattoria in the historic center of Pisa features decades old homecoming recipes for a truly authentic and genuinely Italian dining experience. From the classic pasta dishes to the heft accordion players serenading the tables this is about as authentic of a dining experience as you’re going to find in Pisa.
Gelateria De’ Coltelli
This is the local spot to get the best gelato in town. The De’ Coltelli family is widely believed to be the inventors of modern ice cream. Everything here is made with fresh, local and seasonal ingredients from the surrounding region. The gelato is handcrafted using centuries old recipes to create min-blowing flavors.
Enjoy These Other Photos From Our Short Trip to Pisa
