Things to Do in Pisa: What to See Beyond the Leaning Tower

Looking for things to do in Pisa beyond the Leaning Tower? While over a million visitors come to Pisa each year to see its most famous monument, many leave without discovering the historic sites, museums, food, and excursions that make the city worth more than a short stop.

Thanks to major investment in restoring monuments and public spaces, there has never been a better time to explore what else Pisa has to offer. Below is a practical guide to the best things to do in Pisa, including cultural highlights, places to eat, and rewarding day trips.

Campo dei Miracoli (Piazza dei Miracoli)

Italy’s grandest medieval construction project is far more than just the Leaning Tower.

The Pisa Cathedral stands beside it with an elegant Romanesque façade made of arches and columns, each uniquely designed. Inside, the gilded ceiling and artworks immediately draw your attention.

The Baptistery, the largest in Italy, is also well worth visiting. Climbing its narrow stairs rewards you with elevated views over the cathedral and square.

Nearby, the Museo delle Sinopie and the Cathedral Museum house frescoes and treasures removed during restoration — ideal places to escape the crowds.

Thanks to recent redevelopment, visitors can now walk over 2 km of Pisa’s medieval city walls, enjoying elevated views over the Camposanto cemetery and even the counterweights installed to stabilise the tower. Read more about Pisa’s restored attractions and city walls.

Museums & Art in Pisa

Palazzo Blu

Standing out along the Arno river thanks to its distinctive blue façade, Palazzo Blu is one of the most interesting cultural stops in Pisa.

This 14th-century palace hosts high-quality temporary exhibitions, with past shows featuring artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec and Salvador Dalí. See what’s currently on at Palazzo Blu.

What to Do in Pisa Besides the Tower

Many visitors don’t realise how much there is to see in Pisa beyond the main square.

Botanical gardens, historic ship museums, and quieter churches reveal a more local side of the city. Discover what to see and do in Pisa besides the Tower.

Where to Eat in Pisa

Although Pisa is no longer a coastal city, its history is deeply tied to the sea.

La Scaletta is a historic seafood restaurant just outside the main tourist area, with over 150 years of tradition. The menu balances classic fish dishes with creative interpretations.

La Pergoletta, located in the city centre, is known for its courtyard dining and traditional Tuscan menu — a popular choice for relaxed evening meals.

The banks of the Arno river are also a good area to explore for bars and casual dining after a day of sightseeing.

Practical Tips: Parking & Getting Around Pisa

If you’re arriving by car or planning to park near the historic centre or airport, planning ahead makes a big difference. Read how to safely park your car in Pisa.

Day Trips & Excursions from Pisa

Volterra (Ideal Day Trip)

If you only have one extra day, Volterra is one of the most rewarding excursions from Pisa, offering Etruscan history, medieval streets, and dramatic hilltop views. See a complete Pisa–Volterra day itinerary.

Other worthwhile excursions include Parco di San Rossore, the Romanesque basilica of San Piero a Grado, and the Certosa di Pisa in Calci — home to the Natural History Museum.

Pisa or Lucca?

Many travellers debate whether to stay in Pisa or Lucca. The answer depends on atmosphere, transport connections, and travel style. Read the full Pisa vs Lucca comparison.

Is Pisa Worth More Than a Day?

Most visitors see Pisa in just a few hours, but spending one or two days allows you to explore museums, neighbourhoods, and enjoy evening walks along the Arno — as well as take rewarding day trips into Tuscany.

Pisa is far more than a photo stop. It is a compact historic city that rewards curiosity and time.