Pisa

Finding budget accommodation in Pisa is not the easiest, although there is plenty of choice when it comes to the upper-end and mid-range. The Hotel Relais Dell'Orologio (Via della Faggiola 12-14) is set in a 14th-century mansion, while the four-star Hotel Bologna (Via Giuseppe Mazzini 57) offers huge doses of traditional character and charm. Near the Leaning Tower you’ll find the more moderately priced three-star Hotel Villa Kinzica (Pizza Arcivescovado 2), and similarly the Hotel Roma (Via Bonanno Pisano 111), which is fairly basic but some rooms come equipped with views of the tower.

Clothing and homeware shops are prevalent on Pisa’s main shopping street, Corso Italia, while you'll also find department store Coin (Corso Italia 118). For something a little more upmarket head to Borgo Stretto, which is great for fashionable clothes and chic accessories. If chocolate melts your heart be sure to seek out De Bondt (Lungarno Pacinotti 5), while for wine, cold cuts and locally produced pecorino, try Piazza delle Vettovaglie. Meanwhile, Via dei Mille, Via Santa Maria and Piazza dei Cavalieri all offer a renowned antique market on the second weekend of each month.

The historic centre is something of a hub for Pisa’s dining scene, with plenty of choice when it comes to both budget and upmarket spots. Osteria dei Cavalieri (Via San Frediano 16) is sophisticated and chic, located just off the main drag. Meanwhile there is a concentration of excellent value restaurants around Pisa’s university, with Ristoro al Vecchio Teatro (Via Collegio Ricci 12) a great option particularly for seafood. Try the chickpea pizza at the popular Il Montino (Vicolo Monte 1), a well-priced pizzeria.

La Regata delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare

May/June

Pisa, Amalfi, Genoa and Venice take it in turn to host this historic boat race. Vivid crafts hailing to the 12th century compete over 2,000m, while parades and festivities are also laid on in the city.

La Luminara di San Ranieri

16 June

The streets along the Arno River are lined with candles to honour the patron saint of Pisa, San Ranieri. Candles also float on the river, as streetlights are turned off and parties and fireworks light up the city. 

La Regata di San Ranieri

17 June

Saint Ranieri is honoured again at this traditional regatta, as the four historical quarters of Pisa compete against each other, with Santa Maria in blue, San Francesco in yellow, Sant’Antonino in green and San Martino in red.

Gioco del Ponte

June

This celebration dates back to 1568 and sees teams from the north and south banks battle against each other on the last Sunday in June. Challenges include the pushing of a seven-tonne carriage across the old Roman bridge, Ponte di Mezzo.

Anima Mundi

September/October

A number of atmospheric venues across Pisa play host to this festival of sacred music, with a variety of incredible performances that includes a recital in Miracle Square.