Pisa is one of Italy’s most famous cities, thanks to a certain leaning tower and the distinctly Tuscan vibe. The old town has historic buildings in abundance, including cathedrals, museums, and palaces.

Often combined with a visit to Florence, Pisa enjoys a breathtaking setting on the banks of the River Arno.

Free walking tours in Pisa are the perfect way to explore the narrow streets and charming piazzas. They're great for setting the scene and getting you up to speed on city life.

Here's all you need to know about free walking tours, some of the most worthwhile sightseeing tours in Pisa.

How do free walking tours in Pisa work?

The concept of free tours in Pisa is relatively new, and we anticipate the trend catching on since Pisa is such a fun city to explore on foot.

There’s no upfront price for these free Pisa walking tours. Instead, you decide what you feel your experience was worth after the outing. Then just tip the guide in cash accordingly.

It’s completely free to make your reservation online too, with no credit card details required.

How much should you tip for a free walking tour in Pisa?

Most travelers on free walking tours in Pisa pay around €10 or €15 per person. However, this is just a guide. Some people give €5, while others feel that their experience was worth €50.

Just consider how informative your guide has been, and how well the tour was conducted, and tip appropriately. If you’ve had fun, then feel free to offer a little more.

What are the best free walking tours in Pisa?

The best thing about free walking tours in Pisa is that you’ll get a thorough introduction to some of the most important landmarks in town. Then you can plan to explore those that catch your eye after your excursion has finished.

Historical center free walking tours

This popular tour takes you into the heart of the old town, where you’ll be walking in the footsteps of those who have gone before. Travel back in time to the Middle Ages and discover the secrets behind some of the city’s most iconic monuments.

Itinerary

Start your tour in front of the train station, which is itself a rather grand 19^th-century building with imposing arches and matching windows. If you arrived by train, you’ll already know the spot!

As you head into the center of the city, check out the striking “Tuttomondo” mural by artist Keith Haring. The colorful abstract characters are a poignant welcome to Pisa.

Next up is the superbly named Square of Miracles, which is dwarfed by the white marble of the cathedral, baptistery, and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Comical selfies holding up the tower are optional!

This whole area is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most atmospheric squares to visit in Italy. You’ll learn about Pisa’s historical influence in the wider world, and the powerful stories behind the medieval Duomo. Once the largest religious building in Europe, today the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is a beacon of Romanesque architecture.

At the end of the excursion, you’ll be perfectly placed to pop inside the cathedral and head up the tower for some of the best views in town.

In which languages are free walking tours in Pisa operated?

Currently, free tours in Pisa are offered in English. As this type of excursion becomes increasingly popular, we expect more tours conducted in a greater range of languages to become available.

Where do free walking tours in Pisa start?

Free walking tours in Pisa begin outside the central train station, which is easy to find and is just a 30-minute walk from the Leaning Tower.

The tours end in the Square of Miracles so it will be easy to find your way back to your Pisa hotel.

How long do free walking tours in Pisa last?

The Pisa walking tours usually last around 1 hour and 45 minutes. This is plenty of time to see the main sights and get a good grasp of the historical city center.

You can always opt to spend longer at the attractions around the Square of Miracles at the end of your excursion.

When is the best time to join a free walking tour in Pisa?

Currently, free walking tours in Pisa operate during the morning, which is when you’ll catch the city at its best. The streets tend to be less crowded than in the afternoon, and temperatures are cooler too.

We recommended booking your Pisa walking tour for the day you arrive, to help you get your bearings. Your guide will also be able to recommend some good places to eat and visit so the rest of your trip runs like a dream.

Should Pisa free walking tours be booked online?

It’s advisable to book walking tours online to ensure your spot is guaranteed. Places are limited so you risk missing out by waiting until you arrive.

Having your first tour already in the bag will make your trip less stressful. It means you won’t waste precious vacation time trying to figure out what to do.

You don’t have to pay for reservations, and if your plans change it’s easy to cancel too.

For a hassle-free introduction to Pisa, booking a walking tour online is the way forward.

No upfront charges
Free cancellation
Instantly reserved places
Tour information available in advance

Free Walking Tours in Pisa