Pisa: a tour to discover the most hated city in Tuscany

Pisa , Italy

Pisa: a tour to discover the most hated city in Tuscany

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About this experience

A private walking tour, in Italian or Russian, through the historic center to learn about the history, legends and funny stories of the city of Pisa.
You will learn how Pisa was a despotic maritime republic and why Pisa was hated by all the cities of Tuscany.
The tour starts from the Piazza dei Miracoli
I will tell you about the Baptistery and its two-colored roof.
We will look for unusual columns and strange signs on the facade of the Duomo. Then we will visit the interior with its works of art and the chandelier used by Galileo.
In front of the Leaning Tower I will tell you how it leaned and how it was saved.
We will admire the Piazza dei Cavalieri, a legacy of the Medici family, today home to the Scuola Normale Superiore.
I will show you Galileo's house and tell you its story.
We will pass by Piazza delle Vettovaglie, a destination for an aperitif or a dinner with Pisan cuisine.
For the sweet tooth, here you can taste the Torta coi Bischeri.
We end up on the Ponte di Mezzo where we admire the Lungarno Pisano.

Available options

Private Tour Pisa Center

What's included

Local private guide qualified in Italian or Russian

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Let's start the tour with some notes on the history of the Piazza dei Miracoli. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it consists of a large expanse of lawn on which stand the 4 masterpieces of medieval monumental art celebrated throughout the world: the famous Bell Tower or Leaning Tower, the Camposanto, the Baptistery and the Duomo.

Stop 2

The second most famous square in the city. In ancient times it represented the center of civil power, while from the second half of the sixteenth century it became the headquarters of the Order of the Knights of Santo Stefano, commissioned by Grand Duke Cosimo I de' Medici. Today it is a pole of cultural attraction and study due to the presence of the headquarters of the Scuola Normale Superiore.

The true historic center of Pisa, in the fourteenth century the rich Pisan merchants began to build their lodges here, opening shops and taverns that served the population. Today very popular with Pisan students in the evening hours.

Ancient market square, renovated by the Medici to a Renaissance cloister, today it houses bars and restaurants ideal for an aperitif or dinner with typical Pisan cuisine.
For the sweet tooth, here you can also taste the Torta coni Bischeri, a typical Pisan dessert

The main bridge over the Arno, much loved by Pisans, from here you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Lungarni.

What's not included

Ticket and climb to the Leaning Tower

Entrance to the Baptistery (optional with additional cost for entrance tickets to be purchased on site)

Entrance to the Monumental Cemetery

Available languages

Guide guide

RU IT

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

12 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We meet under the arch of Porta Nuova

About Pisa

Pisa is a city in the Tuscany region of Italy, renowned for its iconic Leaning Tower. This historic city offers a blend of medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and rich cultural heritage. Pisa's compact size makes it easy to explore, with many attractions within walking distance.

Top Attractions

Leaning Tower of Pisa

The iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa is a freestanding bell tower known for its unintended tilt. It is part of the Pisa Cathedral complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €18-€20

Pisa Cathedral

The Pisa Cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and a key part of the Piazza dei Miracoli complex. It is known for its intricate marble facade and stunning interior.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours €5-€7

Baptistery of St. John

The Baptistery of St. John is the largest baptistery in Italy and is known for its stunning acoustics and beautiful architecture. It is also part of the Piazza dei Miracoli complex.

Historical/Religious 30-45 minutes €5-€7

Pisa Botanic Garden

The Pisa Botanic Garden is a beautiful green space with a variety of plant species, including exotic and medicinal plants. It is a great place for a relaxing stroll.

Nature 1-2 hours €5-€7

Knights Square (Piazza dei Cavalieri)

Knights Square is a historic square in Pisa, known for its medieval buildings and the iconic Palazzo della Carovana. It was once the center of the Knights of St. Stephen.

Historical 30-45 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cecina

A savory chickpea flour pancake, similar to a thin pizza, often served as a street food.

Snack Vegetarian, gluten-free option available

Ribollita

A hearty bread and vegetable soup, often made with cannellini beans and kale.

Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A large, thick-cut T-bone steak, typically from the Chianina cattle breed, grilled and seasoned simply with salt and olive oil.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Tiramisu

A classic Italian dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese.

Dessert Contains dairy and coffee

Popular Activities

Biking on Lucca's city walls Hiking in the nearby Tuscan countryside Strolling through Pisa's historic neighborhoods Enjoying gelato at a local gelateria Visiting museums and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Boating on the Arno River Visiting Christmas markets in December

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Pisa for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with tourists and events.

20°C to 32°C 68°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Pisa is generally safe for tourists, but common precautions should be taken to avoid pickpocketing and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting the journey.
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests.

Getting there

By air

Pisa International Airport • 1 km from city center

By train

Pisa Centrale

By bus

Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Pisa. The system is efficient and covers most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Piazza dei Miracoli Santa Maria San Martino

Day trips

Lucca

20 km • Half day

Lucca is a charming medieval city known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls, beautiful churches, and historic buildings. It offers a glimpse into Italy's rich history and culture.

Florence

80 km • Full day

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is a city renowned for its art, architecture, and history. It is home to iconic landmarks like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio.

San Gimignano

60 km • Full day

San Gimignano is a medieval hilltop town known for its towering houses, vineyards, and stunning views of the Tuscan countryside. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique glimpse into Italy's past.

Festivals

Luminara di San Ranieri • September 16 Pisa Jazz Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit the Leaning Tower early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and local neighborhoods.
Try local specialties like Cecina and Ribollita at traditional osterias.
Use the Pisa Card for discounted entry to major attractions and unlimited public transport.
Take a day trip to Lucca or Florence for a deeper dive into Tuscany's history and culture.