Pisa is best known for its iconic Leaning Tower, considered by many foreigners the most recognizable place in Italy. This city in the heart of Tuscany was an ancient naval base in the Roman Age. Today, it is a center for education and culture, hosting one of Italy’s most prestigious universities. If you’re curious about the best areas to stay in Pisa based on my recent trips to the city, we’re about to embark on that adventure.
Accommodation Options in Pisa
Even people who’ve never been to Europe have seen at least one image of the city. One of Pisa’s most famous tourist attractions is the iconic Leaning Tower. Built as a bell tower for the nearby cathedral, the Leaning Tower has been gracing travel posters, Italian souvenirs, and pizza boxes for ages. This unmatched (and, to some degree, unintended) marketing campaign has turned Pisa into one of the most visited cities in Italy, part of many itineraries around the country. This means the city has all types of accommodations, from luxurious 4-star hotels to cheaper ‘locande’ and Airbnbs.
Beyond the world-famous tower, the city is home to other attractions, too. These include the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, housing artifacts from Pisa’s grand past; Camposanto Monumentale, a monumental cemetery; Palazzo Blu—a center for temporary exhibitions and cultural activities; and Museo Nazionale di San Matteo showcasing an extensive collection of Tuscan Renaissance art.
Within Italy, Pisa is also known for its bustling student population. Thanks to the prestigious Università di Pisa, the town’s historic streets are filled with youthful energy and many nightlife venues and restaurants. Which brings us to the delicious Tuscan cuisine. Traditional dishes like pappa al pomodoro and the chickpea-based panelle are common in local restaurants. The city also takes pride in showcasing lardo di Colonnata, a savory and aromatic specialty cured in marble boxes.
Whether you’re visiting Pisa for a selfie holding the Leaning Tower, the vibrant nightlife and food scene, or to spend a cultural weekend, keep reading to discover the best areas to stay in Pisa based on our visits to the city.
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Pisa?
The best area to stay in Pisa is Centro Storico because it is close to the famous Leaning Tower and other historical sites. Since it’s in the middle of the city, you’ll find shopping and places to eat easily. The train station is also nearby, which means getting around is simple. Plus, walking through the old streets feels like going back in time with all the beautiful buildings around you.
Find available accommodation in Centro Storico.
Best Hotels in Centro Storico, Pisa
- Best boutique hotel: The Rif – Boutique Hotel
- Best four-star hotel: Villa Tower Inn
- Best three-star hotel: Hotel Pisa Tower
- Best budget hotel: Hotel Maria
- Best B&B: B&B Di Camilla
- Best hostel: Safestay Pisa Centrale
Where to Stay in Pisa for Sightseeing
- Centro Storico is Pisa’s heart. It offers a close-up view of the city’s medieval architecture and renowned landmarks like the Piazza dei Miracoli and the Palazzo Blu. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with many shops and cafés.
- The neighborhood around the Leaning Tower is great for those looking to stay near Pisa’s iconic landmark. This area has green lawns perfect for picnics and is close to some lesser-known historic buildings and museums worth exploring.
- Staying around the Central Station and PSA Airport allows quick travel connections for those arriving or departing by plane or train. The convenience of transport in this area includes amenities such as supermarkets and restaurants while still within walking distance from the city center.
The Best Areas to Stay in Pisa: District by District
1. Piazza dei Miracoli: Best location for a Short Visit near the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower and the Cathedral are Pisa’s most visited tourist attractions and the main reason most non-European visitors come to the city.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Pisa:
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Views of Pisa Cathedral
- Camposanto Monumentale
- Italian restaurants
- Picturesque streets and historic architecture
- Near the Baptistry of St. John
- Souvenir shops
- Walking distance to Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
Piazza dei Miracoli, or the Square of Miracles, is a walled area in Pisa. Its name derives from the significant religious structures and monumental architecture it comprises. Recognized as a central point of medieval art, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.
This area is home to the remarkable Pisan Romanesque structures that define the city’s historical and architectural heritage: the Cathedral, the Baptistery, the Campanile, famously known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Camposanto Monumentale. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is an architectural masterpiece dating back to 1063 and showcases ornate facades and interiors. Nearby stands the largest baptistery in Italy, renowned for its perfect acoustics.
The Leaning Tower serves as a bell tower to the cathedral and symbolizes Pisa (and Italy) worldwide due to its unintended tilt, which is caused by an inadequate foundation on the ground that is too soft on one side.
The overall design of Piazza dei Miracoli is marked by vast green lawns, which starkly contrast to the white marble edifices making up the complex.
If you’re interested in staying near this iconic square, you’ll find accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels within palatial buildings to modest guest houses offering views of the monuments.
Best Hotels near the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Grand Hotel Duomo
Grand Hotel Duomo is a 2-minute walk from Duomo Square and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It features a bar, a roof terrace with panoramic city views, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Francesco
Hotel Francesco is set in central Via Santa Maria. It offers air-conditioned rooms with a fridge and tea/coffee maker.
Helvetia Pisa Tower
The Helvetia is in Pisa’s historic center, a 4-minute walk from Pisa Cathedral and the Leaning Tower. It offers simple rooms with free WiFi and a free internet station at the reception.
2. Centro Storico: Best location to Stay in Pisa for Food and Nightlife
Centro Storico, or the historic center of Pisa, is considered the best area to stay for restaurants, nightlife, and culture due to its vibrant and historical atmosphere.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Pisa:
- Central location
- Proximity to the Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Lots of Italian dining options
- Vibrant nightlife and entertainment
Centro Storico, Pisa’s historical center, is located on the banks of the river Arno. This district is home to many of Pisa’s most recognizable landmarks, reflecting its past as a powerful Maritime Republic during the Middle Ages.
The streets and plazas in the area often follow the ancient Roman town plan. At the edge of Centro Storico is the Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to the famed Leaning Tower (Torre Pendente).
Other historical treasures in Centro Storico include Piazza dei Cavalieri and ancient bridges like Ponte di Mezzo.
The area hosts vibrant markets and festivals throughout the year that reflect traditional Tuscan life. As night falls, the streets come alive with students and locals enjoying traditional Tuscan fare at the area’s many trattorias and wine bars.
In terms of transportation, Centro Storico is easily navigable on foot due to its compact size. However, several bus routes service the area connecting it with other parts of Pisa. The main train station, Pisa Centrale, is just outside this historic quarter and provides regional and national links.
Best Hotels in Centro Storico, Pisa
Villa Tower Inn
Villa Tower Inn is a 10-minute walk from the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Piazza dei Miracoli square. Offering free Wi-Fi, this property is set in a restored historic villa from the 1920s.
Hotel Pisa Tower
Hotel Pisa Tower features air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV.
B&B Di Camilla
B&B Di Camilla is a bed and breakfast featuring rooms with free Wifi and air conditioning in the center of Pisa. A 14-minute walk from Leaning Tower of Pisa, the property features a garden and a bar.
3. Pisa Railway Station: Best location to Stay in Pisa for Easy Access to Trains, Planes and Cruises
Stazione Pisa Centrale is one of the most convenient areas for visitors to the Tuscan city.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Pisa:
- Proximity to PSA Airport
- Easy access to regional trains
- Direct connections to major Italian cities
- Many hotels and accommodations
- Walking distance to attractions
Pisa Centrale Railway Station is the main transport hub in Pisa. With its well-developed network of regional and national destinations, including high-speed Frecciarossa services, the station offers services to destinations such as Florence, Rome, and Venice.
The area around the station is a great area to stay as it offers efficient travel.
Pisa Centrale is situated approximately 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) from the iconic Leaning Tower, making it accessible on foot in under 20 minutes. Nearby, Pisa International Airport (PSA) is one of the very few airports in Europe located within walking distance from the city center.
Furthermore, Pisa Centrale provides direct train services to Livorno, a coastal destination offering access to ferries and cruises.
The area around Pisa Centrale Railway Station is also known for its many budget hotels and B&Bs perfect for backpackers.
Best Hotels near Pisa Centrale Railway Station
Hotel Maria
Hotel Maria is walking distance from Pisa’s city center. The property features air-conditioned rooms with LCD TV and a private bathroom.
Hotel Moderno
Hotel Moderno is a 20-minute walk from the Leaning Tower. This hotel features air-conditioned rooms.
Safestay Pisa Centrale
Safestay Pisa Centrale offers simple accommodations a 10-minute walk from Galileo Galilei Airport. Free WiFi is available throughout.
Where to Stay in Pisa, Italy: A Personal Take
Finding a good place to stay in Pisa can be straightforward if you focus on accessibility to the city’s sites rather than proximity to the famous Leaning Tower. The city is compact, and most of its attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. This means that a hotel a bit further from the tower can still provide an excellent base for exploring the city without being right next to the crowded area surrounding the tower. For example, during my recent visit, I chose Hotel Pisa Tower, a three-star hotel that provided great, inexpensive accommodation.
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