One Day in Pisa from Florence: More Than Just a Leaning Tower

Pisa is often reduced to a single image: its famous Leaning Tower. But this historic Tuscan city has a much deeper story, shaped by centuries of power, science, art, and rivalry. During the Middle Ages, Pisa and Florence were fierce rivals. Competing for political influence, trade routes, and cultural dominance in Tuscany. While Florence became the cradle of the Renaissance, Pisa thrived as a powerful maritime republic, leaving behind monuments that still reflect its former glory.

Pisa is also forever linked to Galileo Galilei, who was born here in 1564. According to tradition, Galileo conducted his early experiments on gravity from the Leaning Tower, challenging long-held scientific beliefs. Today, his presence is still felt throughout the city.From murals to plaques and monuments.

At the heart of Pisa lies Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), one of the most extraordinary monumental complexes in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the city’s most iconic buildings stand together in perfect harmony.

How to Get to Pisa from Florence

To reach Pisa from Florence, head to Santa Maria Novella train station (SMN) and buy a ticket to Pisa Centrale.

• Price: €9 (one way)
• Travel time: approximately 1 hour

You can buy your return ticket right away, or wait and purchase it later in Pisa if you’re unsure about your return time. Trains run roughly every 30 minutes, with plenty of availability throughout the day.

First Impressions & Street Art

The moment you step off the train, Pisa feels different. More open and spacious than Florence, the city immediately charms you with its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful façades, and elegant streets.

Just a few minutes from the station, we passed two impressive murals:

• A giant portrait of Galileo Galilei, honoring the city’s most famous mind
• “Tuttomondo” by Keith Haring, one of his last works. Filled with vibrant colors and symbolic figures representing peace and harmony

Nearby, we stumbled upon Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, where a local market was in full swing. There were amazing deals on cheeses, pickles, and other local delicacies, perfect for a quick snack or souvenir.

Santa Maria della Spina & the Arno River

We continued walking to Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina. A small but incredibly ornate Gothic church perched right along the Arno River. Built in the 13th century, its intricate details and marble façade make it one of Pisa’s hidden gems.

The Arno River flows calmly through the city, offering one of the most peaceful and picturesque views in Pisa. Standing by the river, with its colorful houses reflected in the water, you really feel the slower rhythm of life here. It’s quiet, magical, and surprisingly romantic.

From Ancient Rome to the Square of Miracles

After crossing the river, we walked along Via Roma. A street that has connected Pisa to Rome since Roman times. Step by step, anticipation builds. Until suddenly you arrive at Piazza dei Miracoli, and it completely takes your breath away.

Yes, you expect to see the Leaning Tower, but what truly astonishes is the entire complex:

• The Leaning Tower (Campanile) – begun in 1173, its tilt caused by unstable ground turned a construction flaw into a world icon
• Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta) – a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture symbolizing Pisa’s medieval power
• Baptistery of San Giovanni – the largest baptistery in Italy, famous for its incredible acoustics and architectural blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles

Together, these three buildings tell the story of Pisa’s religious, political, and artistic importance during the Middle Ages.

Tickets & Visiting the Monuments

Walking through the square is completely free, including taking the iconic photo “holding” the tower.
Ticket prices vary depending on what you want to visit:

• From €27 for a combined ticket covering all monuments
• Other cheaper options are also available

You can check all updated prices on the official website:
https://www.opapisa.it/en/tickets/prices/

Honestly, just sitting on the perfectly kept green grass, with these monuments in front of you, already makes the trip worth it. A truly unique place.

Markets, Squares & the Way Back

Exiting through the left gate of the square’s wall, you’ll find another local market with souvenirs at much more affordable prices than Florence.

After enjoying the views, we started heading back, stopping by Piazza dei Cavalieri — once the political center of medieval Pisa — and Palazzo della Sapienza, before getting lost in Pisa’s charming streets once again. Eventually, we made our way back to the train station and returned to Florence.

Final Thoughts

Pisa surprised me in every possible way. Florence is one of my favorite destinations in Italy, but Pisa has absolutely nothing to envy. It’s also more affordable, making it a great place to stay longer and explore the region from there.

I would definitely come back.

More Italy Travel Guides on the Blog

If you’re planning a longer trip through Italy, you might also enjoy these detailed travel guides, filled with walking routes, historical insights, practical tips, and drone photography:

• 4 Days in Rome – Ancient history, iconic landmarks, and hidden corners of the Eternal City.
• The Amalfi Coast – Dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and one of the most scenic coastlines in the world.
• 3 Days in Naples – Chaotic, authentic, and unforgettable, with easy day trips to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.
• 2 Days in Venice – Canals, islands, and timeless beauty, including a visit to Burano.
• 4 Days in Florence – Renaissance art, architecture, and the perfect base for exploring Tuscany.

Italy never disappoints, and each of these destinations offers a completely different experience.
👉 You can find all of them on Travel to Exist.