Sipping locally produced wine under the Tuscan sun: can anyone truly say they’ve never dreamed of it? Pisa, one of the most famous Italian cities, is the perfect place to live out those fantasies.
But since most people know it only for its iconic tower, how are you meant to know where to stay?
That’s the question our crack travel crew are here to answer, with this insider guide on where to stay in Pisa. This way you can maximise your tower time while checking out everything this underrated town has to offer.
Before long you’ll be a Pisa pro, knowing the under-the-radar locations and hotspots in this sunny Italian city. Fantastico!
Backpacking Italy? Not worried about where you’ll be and just looking for somewhere that’s right for you? Check out our best picks for Pisa in general!
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Gorgeous Ensuite Room in the Heart of Pisa | Best Airbnb in Pisa
This ensuite room built in a historic building of medieval origin is ideal for first-time visitors to Pisa. Situated in a very charming street in Pisa, you’ll be close to many shops, clubs and tourist attractions. Walk just a few minutes around and discover the beautiful sights Pisa offers. The place consists of a bedroom on the third floor, a folding table, a TV, a mini bar fridge, an espresso machine and an electric kettle. There’s a bathroom inside the room equipped with all the essentials.
Safestay Pisa | Best Hostel in Pisa
The biggest, most popular and most comfortable youth hostel in Pisa, is in an incredible, central location. Just five minutes walking from Pisa Centrale Train Station and only 12 minutes on foot from Pisa Airport. The most iconic sight; the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, is just a 20 minute walk away.
B&B Relais Paradise | Best Hotel in Pisa
The bed & breakfast has 3 modern rooms that are equipped with a range of essential facilities to ensure guests have a comfortable stay. B&B Relais Paradise is ideally situated for sightseeing in Pisa with Leaning Tower of Pisa and Piazza dei Miracoli within walking distance. It is also minutes from the Tuscany Wine Region.
Pisa’s Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Pisa
Santa Maria
Santa Maria is a central area of Pisa, with clear boundaries. It sits on the north bank of the River Arno, between the Citadella and Mezzo bridges.
San Giusto
San Giusto is on the other side of the river and tracks from the Tower and Santa Maria, going back as far as the Superstrada motorway.
San Francesco
It’s a quiet neighbourhood with tranquil streets and pretty little squares popping up every now and then. So why have we picked it for the best place to stay in Pisa for nightlife? Because of the university! While most of San Francesco is as described above, the western border where it runs into Santa Maria is a hotspot of bars, clubs and restaurants.
San Martino
San Martino lies on the south side of the river, up against the banks, and follows them around as far as Vittoria Bridge. It meets San Antonio on its western edge.
Sant’ Antonio
The other half of this bend in the river, Sant’ Antonio meets San Martino on its eastern edge and continues down around the bend to the Cittadella bridge.
Pisa is a city of about 90,000 people, in the north of central Italy. It is southeast of Genoa, running directly along the coastline, and about a 50 mile drive west from Florence.
There are loads of things to do in Pisa. It’s best known for the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and that’s what most travellers come to Pisa for: to see it and to take a photo pretending to be holding it up (or kicking it over, if you’re like one of our travel team!).
Pisa has a lot more to offer than its most famous icon, and you can spend a good day or two exploring its surrounds, though we wouldn’t recommend a week!
It’s often used as a jumping off spot on the way to La Spezia, the gateway to the incredible Cinque Terre.
Pisa itself, often overlooked, has a number of gems waiting to be found.
Like Porta a Piagge, by the stunning River Arno, where you can stroll or jog your way down the picturesque banks, admiring the beautifully coloured houses. Or there’s Porta a Lucca, a top pick for sports fans, as this is where the stadium is located.
San Lorenzo Alle Corti is the locals’ choice for the best place to live, so is surely worth seeing what the fuss is about. And there’s Barbaricina, with its easy access to the national park that sits just west of the city.
Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Pisa! And you’re in Italy so, y’know… food!
Pisa’s Five Best Neighborhoods To Stay In…
Depending on your travel style, you may want a specific type of area to stay in. Here are our five picks for the different types of neighborhood you might need!
#1 Santa Maria – Where to Stay in Pisa Your First Time
Santa Maria is a central area of Pisa, with clear boundaries. It sits on the north bank of the River Arno, between the Citadella and Mezzo bridges. It then runs back almost as far as the main road but stopping just short of the Piazza dei Miracoli (Miracles Square) where you’ll find the Tower.
It’s easy to walk all around Pisa from here, so there’s no need to fork out for public transport, and since you’re on the tower’s doorstep, you can use that as your navigational landmark for any adventures further afield.
Many of the streets here are pedestrianised, and paved with those delightfully uneven cobbles, ready to catch an ill-prepared or poorly shod traveller unawares!
There is a great market here in Santa Maria, where you can find fresh food for cheap. Picnics are always a good idea in Italy, where you can find great bread, cheese and meats to take with you on your wanderings.
There are fantastic small bars and restaurants tucked away down side streets. The food is comparable to those on the main drag, but carry a far less hefty price-tag, due to skipping the tourist trail.
Things to See and Do in Santa Maria
- Just walk. Take part in the Italian custom of the passeggiata. It’s an evening stroll with friends or family where you see who’s where and what’s what.
- Go on, visit the Tower! It’s a must and it really is a peculiar sight. With an overnight stay here, maybe you can avoid the bus tour crowds by visiting later or earlier in the day.
- Check out the Baptistry, in the same big open space as the Tower. This is where Galileo was baptised – very exciting history geek moment!
- See the Cathedral. This imposing structure has stunning architecture and was a blueprint for others that followed.
- Enjoy a tasty dinner in a side street and toast your travels with cheap but fantastic table wine!
Gorgeous Ensuite Room in the Heart of Pisa | Best Airbnb in Santa Maria
This ensuite room built in a historic building of medieval origin is ideal for first-time visitors to Pisa. Situated in a very charming street in Pisa, you’ll be close to many shops, clubs and tourist attractions. Walk just a few minutes around and discover the beautiful sights Pisa offers. The place consists of a bedroom on the third floor, a folding table, a TV, a mini bar fridge, an espresso machine and an electric kettle. There’s a bathroom inside the room equipped with all the essentials.
Hostel Pisa Tower | Best Hostel in Santa Maria
Stay in the best location you can get in Pisa, in the historic and oldest part of the town, right under the Leaning Tower. Everything will be within walking distance; sights, shops, restaurants and nightlife (Piazza Garibaldi is just 15 minutes walk from here). The vibe is social, the decor is inspired by pop art and there are abundant amenities to get around.
Whether you’re a slayer on the ping pong table, or a master griller on the BBQ, or more the quiet type, there’s something for everyone. From the cozy living room and library (with a fireplace) to the playstation to the free wifi, Hostel Pisa Tower has you covered!
Grand Hotel Bonanno | Best Hotel in Santa Maria
Located within walking distance of Pisa San Rossore Railway Station, this charming bed and breakfast is an ideal base for those wanting to discover Pisa. A satisfying breakfast is available each morning, and there are also numerous restaurants and cafés close by. The rooms are air conditioned and the Leaning Tower of Pisa is just a 10 minute walk away.
#2 San Giusto – Where to Stay in Pisa On a Budget
San Giusto is on the other side of the river and tracks from the Tower and Santa Maria, going back as far as the Superstrada motorway.
This location is a winner though, as you’re situated near the central train station for your side trips to Florence and Cinque Terre. Also, you get to wander through the most scenic parts of the city on your way to and from home.
There are literally dozens of accommodation options available to you here, having the highest concentration of lodgings in the city. They’re usually B&Bs, with Italians opening their homes to guests, and providing real hospitality.
There is a supporting number of eateries too, with a handful of pizzerias, caffeterias and gelaterias clustered toward the station.
San Giusto is our choice for the best place to stay in Pisa on a budget, as its short distance from the Miracles Square and old town means its overnight prices are more reasonable, while its proximity to the station makes it super convenient.
Walking over the river is no hardship either, with the views up and down the Arno worth several visits.
And religious history buffs will be a fan, as there are several churches and a convent in the boundaries of this area of town.
Things to See and Do in San Giusto
- Go for a meal at the historically significant Convento de “I Cappuccini”.
- Sample a slice at the highly-rated Pizzeria Il Quarto Giusto Pisa.
- Cap off that pizza with a scoop or two of the different flavours on offer at the even higher-rated Ammodo Gelateria Artigianale.
- Utilise the station to take a day trip in any direction! There are options galore!
- Catch a passionate local game of football at Campo Sportivo San Giusto.
Bright Airy Apartment | Best Airbnb in San Giusto
This is the ideal spot to stay if you’re on an Italian road trip, as there are two free, private, indoor parking spaces. The hard wood floors enhance the warmth of the morning sun streaming through the windows, it’s hard to beat this spot for a morning coffee. This apartment has one bedroom plus a pull out sofa bed so four guests can sleep here while you’re in Pisa.
LuckyHouse B&B | Best Hotel in San Giusto
LuckyHouse B&B offers spacious rooms equipped with heating, plus all the essentials to ensure an enjoyable stay. They all have a shared garden and wireless internet access. It is ideally located in the Tuscany Wine Region, allowing guests to easily try the area’s specialities.
Safestay Pisa | Best Hostel in San Giusto
The biggest, most popular and most comfortable youth hostel in Pisa, is in an incredible, central location. Just five minutes walking from Pisa Centrale Train Station and only 12 minutes on foot from Pisa Airport. The most iconic sight; the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, is just a 20 minute walk away.
#3 San Francesco – Best Area to Stay in Pisa for Nightlife
Neighboring Santa Maria to the east, on the north side of the river, and downstream as far as the Fortezza bridge, is San Francesco.
It’s a quiet neighborhood with tranquil streets and pretty little squares popping up every now and then. So why have we picked it for the best place to stay in Pisa for nightlife?
Because of the university! While most of San Francesco is as described above, the western border where it runs into Santa Maria is a hotspot of bars, clubs and restaurants.
You could start off in either direction on the north bank, by the Mezze Bridge. Then you’ll want to head in a zig-zag fashion up toward the Statue Pietro Leopoldo l.
It’s in all the little side alleys and lanes that you’ll find wine bars and taprooms and one fun-sounding place called ‘The Happy Drinker’. Worth a look, at least!
There’s stuff to do here during the daytime too, you lucky things. The 10th century San Michele in Borgo church was built over a Roman Temple and is still standing, in all its frescoed glory, today!
If churches are your thing, you’re in luck, because San Francesco has a bunch of ‘em.
Things to See and Do in San Francesco
- Bar-hop in the roughly triangular section between the bridge and the Palazzo del Podestà.
- Check out the fantastically long history on show at the church of San Michele in Borgo.
- Visit the Palazzo Medici on the riverbank, home to that most famous of Italian familial dynasties.
- Wander around the Gipsoteca di Arte Antica dell’ Università di Pisa. It’s a museum, and it’s free!
- Have a look at the statue of Statue Pietro Leopoldo I, Grand duke of Tuscany. There’s a pretty great gelato shop right on the corner nearby!
Quirky and Charming Apartment in Perfect Location | Best Airbnb in San Francesco
This quirky apartment was built from a restored ancient Chocolate Factory and is composed of two levels with a large living room, two double bedrooms and a single bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen and a bathroom. Walk down and you will find a lot to do – just a block or so off the main Borgo Stretto which is full of restaurants and shops, and the Pisa tower a ten minute walk away.
Retro B&B | Best Bed & Breakfast in San Francesco
In the name of budget accommodation in Pisa (a seriously rare gem), this place is worth booking ASAP. Located in the heart of the old town, Retro B&B offers a unique stay in a historic building for a relatively cheap price. With air conditioned double rooms and breakfast included, this place is a bargain, especially if you’ve got a travel buddy to share a room with.
Hotel Di Stefano | Best Hotel in San Francesco
This hotel is in an incredible, central location in the heart of Pisa old town. Feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you breakfast in the exposed brick dining hall which is also the entrance to the medieval wing. The amenities are far from medieval though, with comfortable beds, free wifi, an onsite bar and air conditioning in the rooms, too.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 San Martino – Coolest Place to Stay in Pisa
San Martino lies on the south side of the river, up against the banks, and follows them around as far as Vittoria Bridge. It meets San Antonio on its western edge.
This neighborhood was initially slated for the coolest neighborhood to stay in Pisa for its outstanding enormous Keith Haring mural from 1989, just chilling on the wall of one of the churches.
Once we took a closer look, there’s actually a ton of reasons it deserves this title.
It’s in San Martino that you’ll find the nice shaded park space of Scotto Gardens. Remember that picnic we mentioned earlier? Well, here’s your spot. It’s right by the river, and with a killer fortress to check out once you’ve eaten your fill.
There’s also the very cool Museo della Grafica Palazzo Lanfranchi, a contemporary graphics museum inside a landmark castle. The exhibitions change often so even if you’ve been before, go again!
There’s a number of great little cafes dotted along the banks of the river. And if none of these are to your taste, you can always pop over the river to check out what San Franceso’s bank has to offer!
Things to See and Do in San Martino
- Get some epic snaps of the famous big mural. Different lighting is good to play with here.
- Chill out at Giardino Scotto, relaxing on the grass with a picnic.
- Try the Leningrad Cafe for some real Italian espresso!
- Explore the Pisa Fortress, built in the 15th century.
- Check out a show at the Graphics museum.
Bright Modern Apartment | Best Airbnb in San Martino
This apartment is the perfect stay if you want to explore the city of Pisa on foot, located in the heart of the city. You can walk to and from anywhere with this chic, sunny apartment as your base for exploring the Tower, and more. Start your day with a coffee on the private balcony and sleep well with air conditioning in the apartment.
Hotel Alessandro Della Spina | Best Hotel in San Martino
Hotel Alessandro della Spina serves a daily breakfast and has a bar where guests can unwind. A wide variety of eating options can also be found nearby. Situated a short walk from the Central Station, the hotel offers friendly staff to provide useful tips on what to see and do in Pisa.
Five Roses Bed & Breakfast | Best Bed & Breakfast in San Martino
Five Roses Bed & Breakfast has 5 elegant rooms that are equipped with all the necessities to ensure a comfortable stay. There are also a number of rooms designed for families. On-site dining options include a restaurant, which is an ideal place to have a meal.
#5 Sant’ Antonio – Best Neighborhood in Pisa for Families
The other half of this bend in the river, Sant’ Antonio meets San Martino on its eastern edge and continues down around the bend to the Cittadella bridge.
Sant’ Antonio gets our pick for the best place to stay in Pisa with kids because it’s really close to the central station, so it’s no hassle to make your way to and fro with little ones in tow.
It’s also right by the river for waterside wanderings. There’s the big green space on the other side of Giuseppe Mazzini street. And you’re in close proximity to the national park, which is an ideal spot for day trips!
Add all this to the fact that Pisa is small, so you can all be over by the Tower and its accompanying attractions in less than ten minutes, and you’ve got yourself a winning neighborhood.
Like the rest of town, there are several churches worth a look here, though the more impressive ones are found elsewhere.
A top pick would be the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, where there is a big open-air market. Perfect for those healthy and not so healthy snacks!
Things to See and Do in Sant’ Antonio
- Head to the big market in Vittorio Emanuele Square.
- Check out the Blue Palace on the riverbank.
- Visit the historic landmark of Il Sostegno.
- Wander at nighttime by the river, seeing the lights of the city and bridges reflected in the water.
- Treat the kids, and yourself, at the Gelateria Orso Bianco. Creamiest flavours around!
Tuttomondo Views | Best Airbnb in Sant’ Antonio
Accommodating up to eight guests, across three bedrooms, this spacious and modern apartment is an excellent pick for travelling families or groups visiting Pisa. Enjoy starting the day together on the private balcony overlooking the infamous Kieth Harding mural outside. When you’re ready to move on to exploring the city, you’re in a super central location with epic access to public transport.
These guys also offer a hook up for long term stays so if you’re a digital nomad or travelling slowly, get it.
B&B Dei Cavalieri | Best Bed & Breakfast in Sant’ Antonio
Offering views of Pisa, B&B Dei Cavalieri is centrally located and provides a swimming pool. It is set amongst a variety of dining options and is minutes on foot from Pisa Centrale Railway Station.
Hotel Bologna Pisa | Best Hotel in Sant’ Antonio
Hotel Bologna Pisa features an around the clock reception, as well as a rooftop terrace. Every relaxed room at Hotel Bologna Pisa includes a minibar and slippers, and the bathrooms feature hair dryers and showers.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Pisa
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Pisa and where to stay.
What To Pack For Pisa
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Pisa
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Pisa, Italy
Pisa is an undiscovered treat of a city, despite it being a destination for many travellers to Italy.
Get to know it for more than one tilting tower, and you’ll come out the richer.
Thanks to our guide, you’ll be able to do that without a hitch, and you may even discover a new delight to share with us that we haven’t included.
Our best overall hotel B&B Relais Paradise will see you well-rested and well-fed, and ready for each day’s exploration.
That’s it from us for now, and those are our travel crew’s ideas and inspiration on where to stay in Pisa. Ten points for the most original tower pose!
“I’ve been to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It’s a tower, and it’s leaning.” – Danny deVito
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Italy.
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- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Italy.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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