Pisa Travel Guide
Pisa might be known the world over for its famous Leaning Tower, but there is so much more to this Tuscan city. It was once a maritime powerhouse and has been known for its elite university which was founded in the 15th century. Once you’ve explored the Romanesque architecture and Gothic churches, you could hop in your Pisa car rental and head off to explore the mesmerising Tuscan countryside. Go walking in the nearby Natural Park Migliarino San Rossore, kick back on the long stretches of beach or make a side trip to the living museum which is Florence.
Dining in Pisa
Like every Italian city, there’s no doubt that you will eat well when you visit Pisa. Its proximity to the sea and the countryside means the restaurant menus are made up of a combination of meat and seafood dishes. While it’s not hard to find most of the Italian classics, there are several Pisan specialities to look out for. Try crostini neri e bruschetta, spaghetti alle arsele and ravioli al mucco pisano, dumplings filled with meaty ragu. The city catered for the sweet toothed too. Sign off the meal with torta co’ bischeri, a pie made from rice, chocolate and candied fruits.
Attractions in Pisa
Okay, so a visit to the Leaning Tower is almost compulsory on your first time in Pisa. But don’t be fooled, there are plenty more things to do nearby like the city walls which stretch for almost 2 kilometres around the edge of the city. Then there’s the Duomo of Pisa, a spectacular white-marble cathedral on the Square of Miracles. An amble through the city streets will most likely bring you past the Gothic Baptistery of Pisa, one of the largest in Italy, and the 13th-century Camposanto. While the city is perfectly walkable, those tight on time could scoot between the attractions in your own Pisa car hire.
Pisa driving routes
Using one of the car rentals in Pisa offers the freedom to explore outside the city. If you have the time, why not make a side trip to the achingly beautiful city of Florence just a couple of hours away. You could spend a lifetime in this city and still only have scratched the surface, but highlights include the Duomo, one of the country’s most magnificent examples of Gothic architecture. Then there’s the Central Market, a bustling place that’s perfect for a quick bite to eat or the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery where you can see pieces from the masters like Michelangelo, Raffaello and Botticelli.
Pisa car rental
If you’re sold on a car hire in Pisa, the most convenient place to pick up your car is at the international airport. If you’re coming from a romantic break you could nab one of the sporty little numbers. Alternatively, go for something a bit bigger and pile in the kids for an historic family getaway. It’s always worth picking a hotel with spots for your car as the winding streets of Pisa can be a little tricky to park. It’s worth remembering that they drive on the right in Italy, the use of seatbelts is mandatory for all passengers and the drink driving laws in Italy are particularly strict.