We recently spent a night in Pisa before starting our Macs Adventure Relaxed Trails of Tuscany trip—and it gave us a completely different perspective on a destination that’s often treated as a quick stop.

Back in 2019, we had the opportunity to visit Pisa during a Mediterranean cruise. At the time, we skipped it in favor of a wine tasting experience in Tuscany. Looking back, that was the right call for that trip—but we were still curious.

This time, we finally saw the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person.

And the first impression? It’s worth it!

You walk into the square, look up at the tower, and your immediate reaction is: how is that even real? 

But after you’ve taken the photos, (here is Melissa's obligatory holding up the tower photo.  I think they actually check your phone to make sure you have this picture - just kidding!)

there’s a natural question most travelers face…

What do you actually do in Pisa beyond the Leaning Tower? 

The Pros of Visiting Pisa

1. The First View of Piazza dei Miracoli

The main attraction, Piazza dei Miracoli, delivers.

Between the Leaning Tower, the Pisa Cathedral, and the Camposanto (cemetery), the architecture is impressive and unique. Even if you’ve seen photos, being there in person feels different.

2. Easy to Visit

Pisa is well-connected by train and easy to navigate on foot. Whether you’re coming from Florence, the Tuscan countryside, or the coast, it’s a simple addition to an itinerary.

3. A Quick Stop That Can Be More

If you’re short on time, Pisa works as a half-day stop. But if you stay longer—even just one night—you start to see a different side of the city.

The Cons of Visiting Pisa

1. Crowds Around the Tower

This is where most people form their opinion of Pisa.

The area around the tower is busy. Tour groups move in waves, and everyone is trying to capture the same iconic “holding up the tower” photo.

2. It Can Feel One-Dimensional

If you only visit the main square, Pisa can feel like a one-and-done destination. Many travelers leave thinking they’ve “checked the box” without experiencing much else.

What to Do in Pisa Beyond the Leaning Tower

This is where Pisa starts to change.

Walk the City Walls for the Best Views

Instead of joining the crowds climbing the tower, we recommend heading to the Walls of Pisa.

For about €5, you can walk along the top of the city walls and get a completely different perspective:

• Views looking down on the Leaning Tower
• Panoramic shots of the city
• Very few people compared to the square below

It’s one of the best value experiences in Pisa—and one that most visitors miss.

Follow the Wall Toward the River

Continue along the wall and make your way toward the Arno River.

This is where Pisa shifts from a tourist destination to a living city.

Discover the Local Side of Pisa

Away from the main square, you’ll find:

• Cafés filled with locals enjoying aperitivo
• Streets lined with students from the University of Pisa
• Families out for evening walks
• Quiet corners that feel a world away from the crowds

Grab a drink at a small café, wander through the side streets, and spend some time along the river.

It starts to feel like a place you could stay—not just visit.

Is Pisa Worth Visiting?

Yes—but how you visit matters.

If you come only for the Leaning Tower, you’ll likely leave thinking Pisa is overrated.

If you give it a few extra hours—or better yet, a night—and explore beyond the main square, you’ll discover a city with a completely different personality.

Our Take

Pisa isn’t just a photo stop.

It’s a place where, if you slow down just a bit, you can experience both sides:

• The iconic landmark everyone comes to see
• And the everyday Italian city most people never take the time to find

And that second part? That’s usually what stays with you.

Planning Your Trip to Pisa

If you’re building a Tuscany itinerary and wondering how to fit Pisa in—or whether it makes sense for your travel style—we can help you design a trip that goes beyond the obvious stops.

Plan Your Trip

Because the goal isn’t just to see a place…

It’s to experience it.

👉 Visit us at Sunshine Travelers Experiences or reach out directly to start planning your next trip.