Jess at Sea

Planning a trip to Tuscany and wondering if Pisa is worth a stop? Spoiler: yes – absolutely. Pisa – while touristy – is compact, iconic, easy to explore, and home to one of the most famous (and delightfully crooked) structures in the world. Whether you’re popping over from Florence, staying nearby, or visiting on a cruise, this one-day Pisa itinerary has everything you need for the perfect visit.

From must-see landmarks to the best gelato and exactly where to snap that perfect Leaning Tower photo, here’s your Ultimate Travel Guide to Pisa, Italy.

Why Visit Pisa?

Pisa may be famous for its tilted tower, but there’s so much more to this lively university city. Think: gorgeous medieval squares, striking Romanesque architecture, leafy riverbanks, charming cafes, and a fun, youthful vibe thanks to the massive student population.

Best part? You can see the highlights in just one day on a tour like this one, making Pisa the perfect addition to any Tuscany itinerary.

One Day in Pisa: The Perfect Itinerary

1. Start Your Day at the Iconic Piazza dei Miracoli

Welcome to one of the most photographed squares in the world! The Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the crown jewel of Pisa. Here, you’ll find:

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

The star of the show! Seeing it in person is always a “wow” moment – the lean is so much more dramatic than photos ever show.

Don’t miss:

• ✔️ The classic “holding up the tower” photo (cheesy but required)
• ✔️ Booking your climb in advance if you want to go inside
• ✔️ Admiring the tower from behind the Baptistery – fewer crowds, great photos

Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Pisa)

An absolute masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. Entry is free with a timed ticket (often included with your tower ticket), and it’s 100% worth going inside.

The Baptistery

The largest baptistery in Italy! If you’re lucky, a staff member might demonstrate the building’s famous acoustics – haunting and magical.

Camposanto Monumentale (Monumental Cemetery)

A peaceful cloistered cemetery with stunning frescoes. A hidden gem most visitors skip.

2. Wander the Streets of Pisa’s Historical Center

After the piazza, stroll into Pisa’s atmospheric Old Town. You’ll find charming narrow streets, artisan shops, pastel buildings, and plenty of spots to grab a coffee or gelato.

Don’t miss:

• Borgo Stretto – one of Pisa’s prettiest streets
• Piazza delle Vettovaglie – lively market square
• Arno River – snap a photo of the colorful buildings lining the banks
• Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina – tiny Gothic riverside church that looks like a fairytale castle

This area is where Pisa really shines – far beyond the Leaning Tower crowds.

3. Grab a Tuscan Lunch (and Maybe a Glass of Wine)

You’ve earned it! Pisa has some fantastic trattorias, wine bars, and casual restaurants serving local Tuscan specialties.

What to try:

• Pici pasta
• Ribollita (Tuscan vegetable stew)
• Cinghiale (wild boar ragu)
• Fresh pastries like cantucci or torta co’ bischeri
• A glass of Chianti or Vernaccia
• Traditional Italian Pizza (so you can say you’ve had pizza in Pisa haha!)

Popular restaurants:

• Osteria dei Cavalieri – traditional Tuscan dishes
• Il Peperoncino – cozy, budget-friendly trattoria
• I Porci Comodi – famous for sandwiches & charcuterie boards

4. Explore Pisa’s Riverside & Neighborhoods

Walk off lunch with a slow stroll along the Lungarni – the scenic pathways lining the Arno River.

What to see:

• Colorful facades reflecting in the water
• Local street performers and markets
• Cute bridges perfect for sunset photos

If time allows, head to the University Quarter, a lively area with bookshops, cafes, and students on bikes – the perfect spot to get a feel for the “real” Pisa.

What to Bring for a One-Day Pisa Trip

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Refillable water bottle
• Camera/phone for iconic photos
• Pre-booked Leaning Tower tickets (if climbing)
• Small bag (large bags are not allowed in the tower)

Pisa: the Perfect One-Day Adventure

Pisa is one of those places that always surprises people. Yes, the Leaning Tower is incredible – but the entire city is charming, walkable, and filled with hidden gems that make it so much more than a quick photo stop.

Whether you’re climbing the tower, strolling along the Arno, or eating your body weight in gelato (no judgment), your day in Pisa will be one to remember.

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