Itineraries for Your Trip to Pisa
3 Days in Pisa for Families
Let’s face it: Most people head to Pisa for the Leaning Tower of Pisa photos and not much else. But this subtle little city makes for a decent family-friendly break, offering history in bite-sized portions—perfect for kids—a walkable old town without too many crowds, and an easy-to-access airport (just 15 minutes away).
I’ve taken those must-snap Leaning Tower of Pisa photos with my kids, and we’ve ambled along the car-free streets of the historic center with gelatos in hand. Here are my tips for making family memories in three days.
Pisa is hot in the summer. Bring a stroller with a sun shade, and plenty of sunscreen.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a stroll along the banks of the River Arno at dusk. The quieter vibe and glow of the street lamps on the water make for magical memories.
Rouse the kids from bed early to get your iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa photos without other tourists in the frame. The lawns in the center of Piazza dei Miracoli are roped off, but you can lift little ones over to stand on the boulders so they can pretend to hold up/squash/eat the tower.
For families with older kids, climbing the 290-something steps of the tower is a must. You’ll need to book your tower entry time-slot in advance; I’d recommend the “Cathedral + Tower” ticket as a best-priced option. Note that kids under eight aren’t allowed in the tower, but—if they’re like mine—they’ll be happy with pigeon-chasing, photo-taking, and gelato-licking in the piazza instead.
With the Leaning Tower of Pisa checked off, it’s time to scout out other treasures of downtown Pisa. Check out the Parco Don Bosco, a shady park with a playground set along an ancient aqueduct, and the Keith Haring mural. Piazza dei Cavalieri is a nice place to people-watch and stop for gelato or a pasta lunch.
Olders kids might enjoy a bike tour, otherwise opt for a golf-cart tour if younger kids are in tow. For a different sightseeing experience, consider a self-guided smartphone tour that offers an escape room-esque mission on the streets. However you choose to explore, end the day with a magical stroll along the banks of the River Arno—and pizza.
The UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre is less than two hours away by car, and not to be missed. Drive to La Spezia, then hop on the Cinque Terre express train to explore the area’s five fishing villages that cling to the cliffs. Adults and kids will love taking the trains, boats, or hiking trails between the villages. If you have younger kids, I’d recommend picking just one Cinque Terre village—Monterosso-al-Mare has sandy beaches and flatter terrain.
If you’re without transport, small-group day trips from Pisa remove the hassle of logistics and planning.
