Discover the secrets this city has to offer and visit the most beautiful 5 hidden gems in Pisa.

Pisa is certainly one of the most visited and beautiful cities in Italy and the world. It boasts some incredibly beautiful spots, such as the Leaning Tower and Piazza Dei Miracoli. But this destination has actually so much more to offer! For those who love travelling green and want to avoid the most crowded places, we suggest a list of hidden gems in Pisa that are worth a look. Green travellers will love it!

piazza dei miracoli and leaning tower in pisa
Photo via Canva

Keep reading if you want to discover some unusual things to see and do in Pisa! We also suggest reaching these different stops by foot or bike, to make your holiday in Tuscany as green as possible. Enjoy!

1. Stroll Around Piazza Dei Cavalieri, One of the Best Hidden Gems You Need to Visit in Pisa

palazzo dell'orologio in pisa
Photo via Canva

Piazza Dei Cavalieri is the second largest square in the Pisa. In the Middle Ages, it was the centre of political power, and it now boasts a series of Renaissance-style buildings designed by Giorgio Vasari. In fact, the square is home to the only Renaissance-style church in the city, the Church of Santo Stefano Dei Cavalieri.

piazza dei cavalieri, hidden gem in pisa
Photo via Wikimedia.

You will also witness Palazzo Della Carovana and Palazzo Dell’Orologio, both belonging to one of the most prestigious universities in Italy, the Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa. You will be amazed by Palazzo Della Carovana’s frescoed façade, and you will also find many references to the history of Tuscany, literal works and mysterious legends.

2. Visit the Natural Park of San Rossore and Avoid the Hustle and Bustle of the City Centre

Pisa is actually a very green city, as it boasts many gardens and parks. The largest natural park is the one of San Rossore, which stretches from the town to the coast. This park is ideal for those who want to breathe in some nature and avoid the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

You could either walk or cycle it, or even explore it on a horse-drawn carriage. Choose what best suits your preferences and you will live an unforgettable experience. You could also have a picnic in one of the free-access areas on the fields, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings while sipping a nice cup of coffee or a glass of local wine.

3. Reach The Church of San Francesco, the Second Largest Church in the City

Another beautiful hidden gem in Pisa is the Church of San Francesco. Its amazing marble façade makes it unique. It actually hides a typical 13th-century Franciscan church which is a unique mixture of late Romanesque and early Italian Gothic styles.

chiesa di san francesco, one of the hidden gems in pisa
Photos via Wikimedia and Canva

Inside the church, you will witness amazing stained-glass windows and beautiful frescoes by Gaddi. This is the perfect spot for those who love art pieces and want to witness different church styles!

4. Tuttomondo: the Beautiful Mural By Street Artist Keith Haring

Pisa is also home to the last mural made by the incredible US street artist Keith Haring before his death in 1990, Tuttomondo. It is a tribute to life and peace in the world and became the symbol of Pisa’s regeneration in the 90s.

tuttomondo in pisa, one of the most interesting hidden gems in pisa
Photo via Wikimedia

Tuttomondo is painted on the exterior wall of the St. Anthony Abbot Convent, and measures about 180 square metres. It consists of colourful figures, which seem like dancing in different poses to the rhythm of African dance. The personal style of the artist is clearly visible in this mural. In fact, the artist is well known for his simple yet effective style, which conveys a powerful message in a widely accessible language.

There are many figures and symbols in this painting. But, the most interesting one is a yellow man at the bottom centre, who represents the artist himself. In fact, Haring appears to be walking away from the scene and actually exiting the mural once he ended it.

5. Sleep Green in Pisa: chose the hidden gem B&B Casa Betulla

Do you want to sleep green in Pisa? Agriturismo La Grotta is a nice farmhouse in the countryside of Pisa, just a few minutes away from the city centre. This hidden gem is located in San Giuliano Terme, with a panoramic view of the city of Pisa, and features a swimming pool and a large garden, making it ideal for those who want to relax and taste local organic produce and vegetables.

This is also the perfect spot for those who want to experience the behind-the-scenes moments of local life. In fact, you will also have to possibility to get bicycles to explore the surroundings, participate in cooking lessons and help farmers in their daily tasks.

La Grotta eco-friendly farmhouse near Pisa

Have you ever been to Pisa? If you choose to visit the most popular areas in the city, make sure you also take your time to follow our list and visit the 5 most beautiful hidden gems the city has to offer.

Featured Image via Canva


Author: Alice Pegonzi

My name is Alice, and I am passionate about travelling and discovering new cultures. I was born and bred in the Tuscan city of Lucca, but in the last few years I travelled a lot: first I moved to the mysterious Edinburgh, then to the icy Saint Petersburg. While knowing new places, I understood even better how beautiful yet fragile our planet is, and I realized that a urgent change is needed towards greater respect and protection of the environment. “Knowing your planet is a step towards protecting it” (Jacques-Yves Cousteau)
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