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Pisa is a must see when you’re in Tuscany, and while there is no doubt that the Piazza dei Miracoli is a definitive highlight, for anyone who enjoys heading a little ‘off-the-beaten track’, the city opens its doors and reveals so much more. Here we have some suggestions of places to explore in the city that are fun to discover on any Pisa bound Tuscany day trip from Florence. Did you know? Pisa was once completely encircled by 7km of walls, and 70% of these still stand. As you head off on your walk, you will see more and more evidence of the structure; today you can even walk along the top of a small section that has recently been opened to the public. There is a small fee for this but it is definitely worth doing. Strolling the Medieval Streets On a Tuscany day trip from Florence you should get some free time to wander and, due to the relatively small scale of the city, our suggestions will only take around two hours to cover, so would fit in very nicely. We suggest starting from the main station, where most of the buildings are new after the heavy bombing in World War II. Close to the station and down a tiny street that you would likely never think of going down is a modern attraction that most visitors miss. A huge mural by twentieth century American artist Keith Haring decorates the building sides all the way down the street. It is the largest mural completed by the artist and indeed he meant it to be permanent. Appearing like a colourful jigsaw with painted features, the title ‘Tuttomondo’ (Allworld) is befitting. Next, head north through the delightful medieval streets and across the Arno river. Before crossing the Ponte di Mezzo, take in the views of the riverbanks that stretch far into the distance, then once on the other side, continue down Borgo Stretto and into San Francesco, the home of Galileo. As you make your way through the city’s districts into which Pisa is divided you’ll see how the city has developed over time. Today the small vibrant university town thrives outside the main tourist hub and offers anyone who wanders into its heart the chance to soak up the daily vibe of authentic life. Corso Italia is a street worth navigating. The main shopping street was built along an original Roman road. Note the buildings here, rebuilt in Gothic style with replicated medieval facades. Look out for Palazzo dei Vicenti, the home of H&M, with its muralled wall that tells tales of Pisa’s intricate history; it brings a whole new dimension to clothes shopping! Make sure you include a stop in the beautiful Piazza dei Cavalieri, which was once the main meeting place of the medieval maritime republic of Pisa. Despite being reconstructed by the people from Florence in the sixteenth century, the piazza retains a charm that resonates with typical Pisan life. Hopefully this has whetted your appetite for a little solo exploration when visiting Pisa on a Tuscany day trip from Florence. If you book with a reliable tour operator your guide will probably have many more suggestions for ‘off-the-beaten track’ places to visit. The main thing is to have fun exploring! Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable tours and excursions around Italy including great itineraries for a Tuscany day trip from Florence. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.
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