Pisa isn’t just about the Leaning Tower — it’s a city brimming with fascinating experiences that go beyond the classic photo op. Whether you want to skip the lines and climb the iconic tower, explore the piazza with an expert guide, or taste authentic Tuscan flavors, Pisa offers something for every traveler. For example, the Skip-the-Line Ticket to Leaning Tower & Cathedral lets you avoid busy queues, while the Pisa: Baptistery and Cathedral Tour & Leaning Tower Option combines historical insights with optional tower climbing. If you’re into cycling, the Pisa tour by bike: The Road To The Sea is a fun, flexible way to see the coast, and food lovers might enjoy the Pisa: Ultimate Food Tour with Full Tuscan Meal, which highlights local flavors and traditions.
Below, we’ve curated the 12 best ways to experience Pisa, blending cultural highlights, active adventures, and delicious tastes — all suited to different interests and travel styles.
1. Pisa: Skip-the-Line Ticket to Leaning Tower & Cathedral
If you want to cut straight to the fun, this skip-the-line ticket is a must. It lets you arrive at your reserved time, bypass the long queues at the ticket office, and enjoy climbing the Leaning Tower at your own pace. The experience lasts about 30 minutes, but the views from the top are unforgettable, and the sensation of walking up a tilting tower is worth every step. You’ll also get to admire the stunning interior of Pisa’s cathedral. Reviewers love the efficiency, noting how well-organized the process is and how easy it is to keep track of your time with mobile tickets. One comment: “Walking up the leaning stairs felt sooo weird — it’s a surreal experience.” This tour is perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free way to access the symbol of Pisa without wasting time in lines.
Bottom Line: If your goal is to see the tower and avoid crowds, this straightforward ticket offers great value and a memorable highlight.
2. Pisa: Baptistery and Cathedral Tour & Leaning Tower Option
At number 2, this guided walking tour offers a detailed exploration of Piazza dei Miracoli, including the cathedral, baptistery, and the optional climb of the Leaning Tower. The tour lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, with a licensed guide who shares insights into the architecture and history of each monument. One highlight is the demonstration inside the baptistery, where visitors marvel at the acoustics. The tour also includes free time to explore the museums and enjoy photos of Pisa’s intricate Romanesque buildings. Guests rave about the engaging guides and the clarity of the explanations.
This tour suits travelers who want context and a bit of storytelling, making the visit more meaningful. Plus, the option to climb the tower is a bonus for those wanting an up-close experience with Pisa’s most famous landmark.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick if you prefer guided insights combined with the chance to see multiple sights in one go.
3. Pisa: Leaning Tower & Cathedral Tickets with Timed Entry
For about an hour and a half, this ticket allows you to visit the Leaning Tower and the cathedral with skip-the-line access. The main advantage is avoiding crowds, as you select a specific time for your tower ascent. Travelers mention that going early in the morning makes for perfect photos, with the grounds around the tower and cathedral looking pristine and uncrowded. The views from the top provide a sweeping perspective of Pisa and the Tuscan hills. The cathedral’s interior, filled with beautiful artworks, is equally captivating. Some reviews note that the process is very well-organized, making the experience smooth even during peak times.
This option is best if you want flexibility to choose your visit time and enjoy the iconic tower with minimal fuss. It’s a straightforward way to combine sightseeing with avoiding the busiest hours.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to climb the tower at their preferred time without the chaos of long lines.
4. Florence: Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano
This full-day tour whisks you from Florence into the heart of Tuscany, visiting two of its most iconic hill towns. The guided bus journey includes scenic views of Chianti’s vineyards and countryside. Once there, you’ll have free time in Siena and San Gimignano to explore at your own pace, shop, or enjoy local gelato. The tour is well-suited for those who want a taste of Tuscany’s rural charm without the hassle of planning transportation or entry tickets. The coach is equipped with Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and water — small touches that make the day comfortable. One reviewer highlights the “scenic views and free time,” making it perfect for leisurely travelers.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting a relaxed, guided day trip to Tuscany’s top towns, with the flexibility to explore independently.
5. Pisa: Bike Tour – The Road To The Sea
This self-guided bike tour combines exercise with sightseeing, perfect for active travelers. Rent a bike and follow a GPS-enabled app from Pisa to the Tyrrhenean Sea, passing through Marina di Pisa and along the Navicelli channel. The route is flat, mostly on dedicated cycle paths, and includes interesting stops such as San Piero A Grado with its historic basilica. Reviews mention how easy and enjoyable the ride is, with many appreciating the flexibility to stop whenever they want. The bikes are in good condition, and the app makes navigation straightforward. The tour lasts around 3 to 4 hours, making it a nice half-day activity.
This experience appeals to those who want an active, personalized adventure that combines nature, history, and stunning coastal scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for fit travelers looking for a scenic, flexible way to explore Pisa’s surroundings.
6. Best of Pisa: Small group tour with admission tickets
At number 6, this small group tour takes you from Piazza dei Miracoli to the leaning tower, Duomo, Baptistery, and more. With a maximum of 12 people, your guide ensures personalized attention while reserving all tickets in advance — no waiting needed. The tour lasts about 2 to 3 hours and includes insights into Pisa’s architecture and history. Many reviewers praise the “knowledgeable guide” and the convenience of pre-booked tickets, especially the option to climb the tower. The walk covers Pisa’s major highlights, making it suitable for travelers with limited time but a desire for depth.
Bottom Line: A balanced option for those who want guided insight and skip-the-line access to Pisa’s top monuments in a small-group setting.
7. Carrara Marble Quarry Tour, Marble Museum & Local Food Tasting
This tour of Carrara combines geology, history, and local cuisine in a memorable 2.5-hour experience. You’ll tour the famous marble quarries where the material used in centuries of sculptures and buildings originates. A geologist guide explains the extraction process and the history of Carrara’s marble industry. Then, visit Colonnata, a village known for its marble-aged cold cut, Lardo di Colonnata, which you can taste. Reviewers highlight how knowledgeable the guide is and how engaging the story of marble’s legacy is. The tour includes stops at marble quarries and the local culinary tradition, making it ideal for curious travelers interested in both art and food.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in geology, craftsmanship, and authentic regional food in a short, engaging trip.
8. Pisa Tower and up to 4 Attractions Tickets with Audio Guide
This all-in-one city pass grants access to five major sites, including the Leaning Tower, the Baptistery, and the Museum of Opera del Duomo. You’ll also receive an audio guide to enhance your experience. The tickets allow you to skip lines, and the audio guide provides rich context. Reviewers appreciate how easy it is to explore multiple attractions in one day without waiting in line. It’s ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Pisa’s main sights without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: A practical choice for those who want to maximize their time and enjoy multiple landmarks with expert commentary.
9. Pisa: Ultimate Food Tour with Full Tuscan Meal
Food lovers will enjoy this comprehensive culinary tour. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll visit five different food stops, sampling local delicacies like pizza, pasta, regional snacks, and Tuscan wines. The tour is led by a knowledgeable local who shares stories behind each dish. Reviewers praise the generosity of the tastings and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers who want to indulge without sacrificing cultural insight. The guide’s insights into Pisa’s culinary traditions make this a memorable, full-bodied experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for foodies eager to discover Pisa’s authentic flavors in a lively, guided setting.
10. Explore Pisa City with Skip-The-Line Leaning Tower Climbing
This combo tour starts with a walking tour through Pisa’s historic streets, ending with skip-the-line access to climb the Leaning Tower. It’s a balanced mix of history, architecture, and iconic sights. The tour begins outside Pisa Centrale station, exploring main squares, the mural by Keith Haring, and the Ponte di Mezzo before ascending the tower. Reviewers mention how the guide’s knowledge enhances the experience and how the priority entrance saves time. It’s good for travelers wanting a thorough overview with the highlight of climbing the tower included.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded option that combines sightseeing, local stories, and the thrill of the tower climb.
11. Tuscan Wine Tour by van from Pisa
This wine tour takes you into the hills of Tuscany for a full 6-hour day exploring two organic wineries in Lucca. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll learn about local wine production, taste a variety of wines, and visit the charming village of Colonnata for a special Lardo di Colonnata tasting. Reviewers emphasize the authenticity and personal touch, with many mentioning the knowledgeable guide and the beautiful vineyard settings. It’s ideal for wine lovers who want a relaxed, intimate experience with genuine regional products.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a deep dive into Tuscany’s wine culture with a focus on organic, local wines.
12. Pisa: Semi Private Local Food Tour (Max. 6 People)
Finally, this semi-private food tour offers an intimate look at Pisa’s culinary scene. Limited to six people, the tour begins with a Spritz and charcuterie in a local wine bar, then moves through five eateries sampling pizza, pasta, regional wines, beers, and traditional desserts like cantuccini. Reviewers love the friendly guide and the chance to try authentic dishes in a relaxed, small-group setting. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a personal experience, tasting local specialties that aren’t usually on tourist menus.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for foodies who prefer a cozy, authentic meal-filled walk through Pisa’s vibrant dining spots.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Pisa
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and travel style. If you’re after quick access to the Leaning Tower, the skip-the-line tickets are your best bet. For a richer understanding of Pisa’s architecture and history, guided walking tours or city explorations will enhance your visit. Foodies should look into full tasting tours or small-group culinary walks, which provide authentic flavors and local insights. Active travelers might enjoy the bike tour for its flexibility and scenic route, while those interested in art and geology will find the Carrara marble trip fascinating.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure spots on popular tours like the Leaning Tower or the full city explorer experience.
To sum it up, Pisa offers a diverse range of tours that cater to history lovers, foodies, active adventurers, and curious explorers alike. Whether you want the hassle-free skip-the-line access or an in-depth guided experience, you’ll find plenty to love. Remember to book early to get the best times and avoid missing out on your top choices.