Exploring Florence & Pisa

Robert Anderson
Mar 20
6 min read

Updated: May 22

Exploring Florence & Pisa, two of Tuscany's most iconic cities, offer a rich tapestry of art, history, and architectural marvels. From the Renaissance masterpieces of Florence to the medieval charm of Pisa, this guide will help you navigate the must-see attractions, transportation options, and essential travel information. For a visual overview of these cities, consider watching this YouTube video.

Exploring Florence & Pisa: Tourist Information

Florence

Feel Florence: The official tourism website offering comprehensive information on attractions, events, and itineraries. Visit Feel Florence
Florence Tourist Information Offices: Multiple offices provide maps, brochures, and assistance. Key locations include:
- Piazza del Duomo, 1
- Via Manzoni, 16
- Amerigo Vespucci Airport(Firenze Tourism)

Pisa

Turismo Pisa: Official portal for tourist information, events, and services in Pisa. Visit Turismo Pisa(aboutpisa.info)
Tourist Office Pisa Turismo - Duomo: Located at Piazza Duomo, 7, offering multilingual support and resources. (turismo.pisa.it)

Transportation Options

Florence

Public Transport: Florence boasts an extensive network of buses and trams. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, online, or via the ATAF app. (Introducing Florence)
Tram Lines: Two main lines, T1 and T2, connect key areas, including the airport to the city centre. (Reddit)
FirenzeCard: A 72-hour museum pass granting access to over 60 museums, including the Uffizi and Accademia Gallery. Available in physical and digital formats. More on FirenzeCard(FirenzeCard)

Pisa

PisaMover: An automated shuttle connecting Pisa Airport to Pisa Centrale Station in just 5 minutes. (Rome Toolkit)
City Buses: Orange buses operate throughout the city, with the LAM "ROSSA" line connecting the train station to Piazza dei Miracoli. (discovertuscany.com)
Pisa Pass: A combined ticket offering access to the Leaning Tower, Baptistery, Camposanto, and more. Purchase Pisa Pass(Italy Museum)

Key Attractions

Florence

Accademia Gallery, Florence

Home to Michelangelo's renowned statue of David, the Accademia Gallery offers a deep dive into Renaissance art. Beyond David, explore works by Botticelli, Ghirlandaio, and the Museum of Musical Instruments.

Marble statue of a muscular male figure standing in a domed room. The statue shows intricate detailing, with a calm expression. — Michelangelo's David

Address: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50122 Florence
Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:15 AM – 6:50 PM; closed Mondays.
Website: Accademia Gallery
Getting There: A short walk from the Florence Cathedral or accessible via local buses.

Piazza della Signoria, Florence

This historic square serves as an open-air museum, featuring statues like Neptune's Fountain and a replica of Michelangelo's David. It's also home to the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's town hall.

People in a bustling plaza with historic stone buildings under a bright blue sky. A clock tower and statues are visible, creating a lively, tourist-filled scene. — Piazza della Signoria

Address: Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Florence
Getting There: Located in the city centre, easily reachable on foot or by public transport.

Uffizi Gallery, Florence

One of the most famous art museums globally, the Uffizi houses masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Caravaggio. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

A woman stands on a giant seashell in the ocean. Two figures blow wind from the left, while a woman on the right holds a floral robe. — Sandro Botticelli's masterpiece "The Birth of Venus" depicts the goddess Venus gracefully emerging from the sea upon a shell, flanked by symbolic figures and swirling drapery, capturing the beauty and mythology of the Renaissance era.

Address: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Florence
Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:15 AM – 6:50 PM; closed Mondays.
Website: Uffizi Gallery
Getting There: Situated near Piazza della Signoria, accessible by foot or local transport.

Florence Cathedral (Duomo)

Dominating the city's skyline, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is renowned for its red-tiled dome engineered by Brunelleschi. Visitors can explore the cathedral, climb the dome, and visit the adjacent Baptistery and Bell Tower.

Florence Cathedral's ornate facade with intricate patterns. Massive red-brick dome under a cloudy sky, creating a grand, historic mood. — The majestic Florence Cathedral, known as the Duomo, featuring its iconic red-tiled dome and intricate facade, stands under a partly cloudy sky.

Intricate frescoed dome interior adorned with vibrant biblical scenes, figures, and angels. Central octagonal window emits light. — Intricate frescoes adorn the inside of Florence Cathedral's dome, depicting biblical scenes with vibrant colors and dynamic figures, showcasing the grandeur of Renaissance art.

Ornate cathedral facade and bell tower with patterned white, green, and pink marble under a cloudy sky. Urban setting with nearby buildings. — The majestic facade of Florence Cathedral, with its intricate Gothic architecture, stands tall alongside the iconic bell tower and baptistry, under a dramatic sky in the bustling main square.

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Florence
Opening Times: Varies by section; check the official website for details.
Website: Florence Cathedral
Getting There: Central location, easily accessible on foot or by public transport.

Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence

Offering panoramic views of Florence, Piazzale Michelangelo is the perfect spot for sunset vistas. A replica of Michelangelo's David stands at its centre.

Florence cityscape with the Duomo and a church under a blue sky, surrounded by mountains and rooftops, giving a historic and vibrant feel. — View from Piazzale Michelangelo overlooking Florence, showcasing the iconic Florence Cathedral and the historical cityscape with the Tuscan hills in the background.

Address: Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Florence
Getting There: Accessible by bus (lines 12 or 13) or a scenic uphill walk from the city centre.

Ponte Vecchio, Florence

This medieval stone bridge over the Arno River is lined with jewellery shops and offers picturesque views. It's one of Florence's most photographed landmarks.

Historic bridge over calm river, flanked by yellow buildings under a cloudy sky. People are visible on the bridge. — The historic Ponte Vecchio spanning the Arno River in Florence, Italy, under a sky filled with picturesque clouds.

Address: Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Florence
Getting There: Located in the heart of Florence, easily reachable on foot.

San Lorenzo Market, Florence

A bustling market offering leather goods, souvenirs, and local delicacies. It's a great place to experience Florentine culture and pick up unique items.

Address: Piazza San Lorenzo, 50123 Florence
Opening Times: Typically open daily; hours may vary.
Getting There: Short walk from the Florence Cathedral or accessible via local buses.

Pisa

Leaning Tower of Pisa

An architectural marvel, the Leaning Tower is famous for its unintended tilt. Visitors can climb its 294 steps for a unique perspective of Pisa.

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa
Opening Times: Daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; hours may vary seasonally.
Website: Opera della Primaziale Pisana
Getting There: From Pisa Centrale Station, take the LAM "ROSSA" bus to the "Torre" stop. (discovertuscany.com)

Pisa Cathedral

Adjacent to the Leaning Tower, this Romanesque cathedral boasts intricate facades and a rich history dating back to the 11th century.

Dome fresco depicting a heavenly scene with a central figure in red and blue, surrounded by angels and golden light, creating a divine atmosphere. — A stunning representation of heavenly scenes covers the dome of the Pisa Cathedral, depicting an ethereal gathering of saints, angels, and divine figures in a celestial ascent. The vibrant colors and intricate details create a sense of movement and reverence.

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa
Opening Times: Varies; check the official website for details.
Website: Pisa Cathedral
Getting There: Same as the Leaning Tower; located within Piazza dei Miracoli.(discovertuscany.com)

Battistero di San Giovanni, Pisa

The largest baptistery in Italy, known for its acoustics and blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Ornate dome with intricate carvings under cloudy sky, featuring arched windows and detailed stonework, conveying a historical atmosphere. — The intricate facade of the Battistero di San Giovanni in Pisa stands majestically against a backdrop of dramatic clouds.

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa
Opening Times: Varies; check the official website for details.
Website: Baptistery
Getting There: Located within Piazza dei Miracoli.

Camposanto Monumentale, Pisa

A historic cemetery housing impressive frescoes and sculptures, offering insights into Pisa.

Arched stone windows frame a cloudy sky, revealing a distant dome roof. The architecture shows intricate patterns and historic design. — Camposanto Monumentale, Pisa

FAQ's

What is the best time to visit Florence and Pisa?

The best times to visit are spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are manageable.

Can I visit both Florence and Pisa in one day?

Yes, it's possible. Pisa is about an hour from Florence by train, making a day trip feasible. However, staying overnight in each city allows for a more relaxed experience.

Do I need to book tickets in advance for popular attractions?

Yes, especially for the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Booking in advance helps avoid long queues.

Is there a city pass or discount card for tourists?

Florence offers the FirenzeCard, which gives access to over 60 museums. Pisa has the Pisa Pass, allowing entry to major attractions in Piazza dei Miracoli.

Are the cities walkable?

Yes, both Florence and Pisa have compact city centres where most attractions are within walking distance. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

How do I get from Florence to Pisa?

The most efficient way is by train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to Pisa Centrale. The journey takes around one hour and trains run frequently.

Is it safe to travel around Florence and Pisa?

Both cities are generally safe for tourists. Normal precautions such as safeguarding valuables against pickpockets are advised.

Are guided tours available in English?

Yes, most major attractions offer guided tours in English, either through official channels or third-party providers.

Can I climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa?

Yes, visitors can climb the tower, but tickets are limited and time-slotted. Children under 8 are not allowed to climb.

Are there luggage storage options in both cities?

Yes, major train stations like Firenze SMN and Pisa Centrale have luggage storage facilities. Some private companies also offer luggage storage services nearby attractions.