Situated on the Tuscan coastline in northern Italy, the historic town of Pisa is a popular visitor destination, thanks to the infamous Leaning Tower which made it famous. The town has much more to offer visitors on city breaks in Pisa than just one Romanesque tower, however, including historic churches, medieval palaces, and buildings from one of the oldest universities in the world.
What to Know Before Visiting Pisa?
Pisa Airport is fewer than 2km from the historic centre, and a shuttle service called the PisaMover takes visitors from the terminal to the main railway station in just a few minutes. Flights to Pisa arrive from several UK airports, including from Manchester and from London airports Gatwick and Heathrow.
Be sure to take out Euros for your weekend in Pisa, and if you can, practice a few key Italian phrases, though most people working in the travel industry will speak English. Pisa is one hour ahead of UK time.
When Is the Best Time To Visit Pisa?
Summer months in Pisa can be very warm, regularly hitting 30°C and above, with very little rain. If you prefer package holidays in Pisa when the weather is a little cooler, spring or autumn might suit you better, when the temperature is typically a more temperate 20°C.
Pisa celebrates the festival of its patron saint San Ranieri in June, and on the 16th you might particularly enjoy the Luminara, when the entire city is lit up by candlelight. The Regatta de San Ranieri, a boat race on the River Arno, takes place the following day.
What Must You Do In Pisa?
Start your weekend in Pisa by exploring the town's historic streets, or taking a walk along the banks of the River Arno. Make sure to include the town's historic Orto botanico di Pisa on your itinerary; these gardens were opened in the 16th century and feature plants and trees from across the world.
Take a break from sightseeing with a trip to Marina de Pisa, where you can enjoy some rest and relaxation on the beach, and even take a dip in the Mediterranean. When you plan your flight and hotel for Pisa, look into the local companies which offer boat trips along the coast, departing from Marina de Pisa, Tirrenia, and the nearby town of Livorno.
What Are Pisa's Must-Visit Spots?
Spend time on your weekend break exploring Pisa's historical and cultural attractions.
The iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa will, of course, be at the top of the list for any package holidays in Pisa. Built in the 12th century, the tower actually started to lean during its construction, though by the late 20th-century, this had been partially corrected, allowing the tower to reopen to visitors.
Climb the 296 steps to the top to enjoy great views over Pisa, and to tick something unique off your bucket list!
The tower is far from the only landmark in the Piazza del Duomo. Pisa's 13th century marble cathedral sits next to the tower.
The12th century Pisa Baptistry is a must-see on city breaks in Pisa, if only to enjoy the impressive acoustics, which are demonstrated daily by amateur singers.
Discover more about Pisa and Tuscany through historic artefacts and fine works of art at the National Museum of the Royal Palace.
Enjoy medieval art and illuminated manuscripts at the National Museum of San Matteo.
If you also have time to explore the surrounding area, you can also rent a car in Pisa.
What to Eat In Pisa
You can enjoy authentic pizza and pasta on your visit to Pisa, but make sure you try a few of the local Tuscan specialities, too. A thick bread and tomato soup, pappa al pomodoro, can be found on menus around town. Take advantage of Pisa's proximity to the coast by enjoying cod alla Pisana, fried in a sweet and sour sauce. Tuscany is famous for its wine, including Chianti, so look out for local bottles on the menu.
What to Bring Home From Pisa
No visit to Pisa would be complete without bringing back a miniature model of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but if you want to buy more unusual souvenirs, head to the vintage Marina de Pisa market or the shop Made In Tuscany, to find locally made crafts. Pisa is famous for its chocolates, and the town is home to dozens of stores selling home-made confectionery — an ideal gift for friends at home, if you can resist eating the chocolates before you get back!
Explore other destinations
Planning on flying to Italy? If a city break in Pisa doesn't quite convince you, why not explore other exciting cities in Italy ? Check out our amazing flight and hotel packages for your next holiday adventure!