A complete guide to where to stay in Pisa, Italy (+ hand-picked hotels near the Leaning Tower, the main train station and the best places to stay near Pisa for beach).
Situated on the banks of the Arno River, Pisa is one of the best places to base yourself while exploring northern Tuscany. With its convenient location on Italy’s fast Freccia train line and just minutes from Galileo Galilei Airport (Tuscany’s main airport), Pisa is incredibly easy to reach. In this guide, I’ll help you figure out exactly where to stay in Pisa based on your travel plans and how long you’re staying. I’ll also share some great hotel and B&B options to make your stay even easier.
Where I stayed in Pisa
For my first trip to Tuscany, I made Pisa my base. Not only did I have a late-night arrival at Pisa International Airport, but the city’s great train connections made it super convenient. With just a few days to explore, I had my sights set on both Pisa and Lucca. I picked a hotel right next to the Leaning Tower since most of the must-see sights are all around it, so it was the perfect spot. Plus, getting to Lucca was quick and easy from S. Rossore station, making it an ideal day trip.
💖 My favourite hotel in Pisa: Prato dei Miracoli Residenza d’Epoca
Perfect for: exploring Pisa – just a 1-minute walk from the Leaning Tower
What I loved: modern rooms with panoramic views of the tower
Check details & prices: Booking.com | Expedia
I can honestly say you won’t find a better location than Prato dei Miracoli Residenza d’Epoca. Even though it’s right in the heart of a very touristy area, my room was surprisingly quiet. Be sure to book a room with a view of the tower, as not all of them have one. It’s absolutely worth it, especially when the tower is beautifully lit up at night. And while there’s no breakfast at the hotel, you’ll find plenty of cafés just outside serving up fresh pastries and good coffee.
Where to stay in Pisa (My top picks)
Most booked by our readers – Grand Hotel Duomo
8.1 | 4,880+ reviews – a central hotel with a rooftop bar with stunning views of the Leaning Tower
Best mid-range stay – Villa Tower Inn
8.4 | 1,120+ reviews – next to the Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli, you can walk everywhere
Best budget-friendly stay – Hotel Di Stefano
8.5 | 2,460+ reviews – a family-run hotel with a sun terrace and beautiful city views
Best hotel with parking – Hotel Bologna
8.4 | 4,990+ reviews – centrally located with secure on-site parking
Tips for booking a hotel in Pisa
No 5-star hotels or properties with pools – this might surprise you, but there isn’t a single 5-star hotel right in or near the Old Town. The same goes for hotels with pools. If you’re looking for luxury or a pool, I’d suggest basing yourself somewhere else for your Tuscan adventure. Another thing to keep in mind – most of the hotels near the main attractions don’t have great ratings. That said, there are plenty of fantastic B&Bs in the area, so it’s definitely worth checking those out before you book.
Visiting the city for the first time? Check out my complete Pisa day trip itinerary, covering all the must-see sights and tips to skip the lines at the Leaning Tower.
Leaning Tower – the best area to stay in Pisa
Almost everything you’ll want to see in Pisa is tucked into the Santa Maria district, one of the city’s four historic quarters (quartieri storici). This charming neighbourhood covers much of the northern side of the Arno River, and it’s home to the iconic Leaning Tower and Cathedral. Santa Maria district stretches from Piazza dei Miracoli to the north down to the banks of the Arno River to the south.
If it’s your first time in Pisa, there’s no better place to stay than the Santa Maria district, just steps from the Leaning Tower. This area puts you right in the heart of the city’s most famous sights. Within just a few steps, you can explore the Tower, the Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the Monumental Cemetery. If you’re only in town for a short visit, I’d recommend staying near the tower, as it’s the best way to make the most of every minute.
I’ve found that early mornings and late evenings are especially magical here. When the crowds fade, and the tower lights up, you get to experience a quieter, more atmospheric side of Pisa that most day-trippers never see. Plus, staying nearby makes sightseeing super convenient – you can easily pop back to your room for a break, drop off your shopping, or grab a quick espresso without losing time on commuting.
As I mentioned earlier, finding a great hotel with a high rating (something I usually look for around 8.9 or above on Booking.com) can be pretty tough. That’s why I highly recommend considering a B&B instead. There are plenty with excellent reviews, often scoring over 9.5. I’ve included both options below so you can pick whatever suits you best.
Don’t miss out! Book your Leaning Tower skip-the-line ticket. With over 14,000 visitors a day, lines are huge – save hours and get straight inside.
Why stay near the Leaning Tower
- the Santa Maria district is the best place to stay in Pisa, as you’ll be just a short stroll from Piazza dei Miracoli and the iconic Leaning Tower
- perfect for easy day trips to Lucca and Florence – Pisa Centrale train station is about a 20-minute walk away, while S. Rossore train station is just 10 minutes on foot
- there are plenty of great restaurants in the area, two of my personal favourites are I Porci Comodi and Ristorante alle Bandierine
Best hotels near the Leaning Tower
Grand Hotel Duomo – Most popular 4-star
You really can’t beat the location, just a 3-minute stroll to the Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli. Some rooms even have views of the tower, so definitely try to book one of those! The hotel’s restaurant, Marzio Ranieri Room, serves up seasonal Tuscan dishes and Italian favourites. Don’t miss the rooftop bar on the 5th floor, a perfect spot for an aperitivo with a view. And if you’re driving, no worries, there’s a private garage available for guests.
Villa Tower Inn – Best rated 4-star
This charming boutique hotel is set in a beautifully restored 1920s villa. Rooms are spacious, decorated in elegant Art Nouveau style and full of character and charm. Plus, there’s secure parking within the hotel’s gates, just be sure to reserve your spot in advance.
Hotel Di Stefano – Best 3-star
This charming, family-run hotel is a great budget-friendly choice just a short walk from the Leaning Tower. You can relax on the large rooftop terrace, which comes with sun loungers and panoramic city views. Plus, if you’re driving, there’s valet parking too, which makes things super easy.
B&B 7 Rooms – Most popular B&B
Tucked just a short walk from the iconic Leaning Tower, this charming B&B makes a perfect base for your stay. The rooms are tastefully decorated, with comfortable beds. Don’t miss breakfast on the rooftop terrace! It’s hard to beat starting your day with views of the tower and the nearby botanical gardens.
Rinascimento Bed & Breakfast – Best rated B&B
Staying in this unique B&B is like stepping back in time. It’s set inside a charming medieval tower just a stone’s throw from the Leaning Tower. The rooms are spacious and decorated with gorgeous painted ceilings. Plus, the breakfast is fabulous with warm croissants, delicious omelettes, and freshly squeezed orange juice.
Pisa Centrale – where to stay in Pisa for one night
As magical as it sounds to wake up to a view of the Leaning Tower, it’s not always the most convenient option. This is especially true if you’ve got an early train or you’re just passing through Pisa for the night. In that case, staying near Pisa Centrale can be a better option. You’ll be just steps from the station, which makes arrivals and departures easy. And don’t worry, the iconic tower is still within walking distance (about 25 minutes away), with plenty to see along the way.
Pisa Centrale is also a great choice if you want easy access to the airport without spending your last night in Italy at an airport hotel. From here, you can walk to Galileo Galilei Airport in about 20 minutes, or hop on the Pisa Mover (about a 5-minute journey).
If you’re basing yourself in Pisa to explore Tuscany by train, consider staying in the Sant’Antonio or San Martino districts for easy access. These neighbourhoods sit right between the Arno River and Pisa Centrale, making them super convenient for day trips. They’re also a more relaxed and comfortable choice for a longer stay compared to hotels right next to the station. Plus, you’ll still be within easy walking distance of the city’s main sights.
Why stay near Pisa Centrale for one night
- walking distance to the Central train station, perfect for day trips to Lucca and Florence
- convenient airport access – just a 20-minute walk or a quick ride on the Pisa Mover
- all major attractions, including the Leaning Tower, are within a 30-minute walk away
Best hotels in Pisa near the train station
NH Hotel – Best 4-star
Located right across from the main train station, NH Hotel makes an ideal base for a one-night stay. Plus, it’s quieter than you’d expect for such a central spot. If you’re driving, the on-site private garage is a real bonus. And you won’t have to worry about the city’s ZTL, as the hotel is safely outside the restricted zone.
Hotel Alessandro Della Spina – Best 3-star
Just a few minutes’ walk from the train station, Hotel Alessandro Della Spina is a great budget-friendly stay. The rooms are cosy and charming, and the breakfast spread doesn’t disappoint. It offers plenty of sweet and savoury choices, plus gluten-free options to start your day right.
Five Roses Bed & Breakfast – Best B&B
Tucked along the main pedestrian shopping street and just minutes from the train station, this small B&B is a true hidden gem. The rooms are quiet thanks to excellent soundproofing, and the beds are extra comfy. Breakfast is a treat, featuring high-quality organic ingredients and homemade pastries. And with only a few rooms available, it books up fast, so book early if you can!
Best hotels in Pisa with parking
If you’re arriving by car, keep in mind that Pisa, like many Italian cities, has a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato). It covers most of the historic centre, including areas around the Leaning Tower and major tourist spots. Be sure to watch the signs carefully before driving in, or you will face a hefty fine.
If you choose a hotel inside the ZTL zone, be sure to contact them in advance. They can register your car’s license plate with the authorities, allowing you temporary access to enter the restricted area and unload your luggage. That said, the easiest way for me to avoid any ZTL trouble is to stay at a hotel located just outside the zone.
Here are the best hotels in Pisa with parking.
Hotel Bologna – Best 4-star (inside the ZTL zone)
Situated halfway between the Leaning Tower and the train station, Hotel Bologna is an ideal choice. The rooms feel spacious, with plenty of natural light. Plus, the hotel offers secure parking within its courtyard for extra convenience.
Hotel Roma – Most popular 3-star (outside the ZTL zone)
If you’re looking for a good place outside the ZTL zone, Hotel Roma is a perfect option. It’s only a short stroll from both the Leaning Tower and S. Rossore train station, making it super convenient for sightseeing and getting around. Plus, the hotel offers secure private parking just behind the building, just be sure to book your spot ahead of time!
Hotel Miratorre – Best rated 3-star (outside the ZTL zone)
If you’re after free parking, Hotel Miratorre is the perfect choice. Located just outside the ZTL zone, it offers free parking spots conveniently right by the entrance. The rooms are modern and boutique-style, with excellent soundproofing. Don’t miss the hotel’s restaurant, La Corte di San Leonardo, where you can enjoy delicious Italian dishes and fresh seafood.
Best hotels near Pisa International Airport
Also known as Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA), Pisa Airport is Tuscany’s main international gateway and one of Italy’s busiest airports. It’s a super convenient starting point, not just for exploring the city, but also for discovering nearby treasures like Florence and the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
Pisa International Airport is surprisingly close to the city centre. It’s just a 20-minute walk from Pisa Centrale train station or a quick 5-minute ride on the Pisa Mover shuttle. However, if you’re travelling with a lot of luggage, a taxi might be your best bet. The Pisa Mover only takes you to the train station, so you’d need to walk to your hotel from there. You’ll find the Cooperativa Pisana Tassisti (CO.TA.PI.) taxis right outside the arrivals area. A ride to the Leaning Tower usually costs around €20.
While Galileo Galilei Airport is close to the historic centre, I wouldn’t recommend staying nearby unless it’s just for one night before an early flight. It’s within reach, but you’re still looking at a 40-minute walk to the Leaning Tower. Plus, there’s no direct transport to the tower itself, only to the train station. So, staying near the airport works well for a quick overnight stop. For a longer visit, I’d recommend staying around the Leaning Tower or in the Sant’Antonio or San Martino districts. With that in mind, here are the best hotels near Pisa International Airport if you need to stay close by.
Blue Shades Hotel – Best 4-star
Blue Shades Hotel is the nearest hotel to Pisa International Airport, just a short walk away. The central train station is also within easy walking distance. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, perfect for a quick overnight stay.
The Green Gate – Best B&B
If you’re considering a B&B, I’d recommend staying at The Green Gate instead of a hotel. It’s closer to the airport and has much higher ratings than many hotels nearby. Plus, you can relax in its lovely shared garden!
Where to stay near Pisa
Pisa, famous worldwide for its iconic Leaning Tower, is definitely a must-see on any Italian itinerary. But the city itself can feel overwhelmingly touristy, and finding a really good hotel can be a challenge. As I’ve mentioned before, don’t expect pools or luxury five-star experiences here.
That’s why, if you’re travelling by car, I’d suggest staying somewhere outside Pisa to explore northern Tuscany more comfortably. Driving really changes the game when it comes to where you can stay and what you can see. On the other hand, if you’re travelling by train, Pisa and Florence are your best bets. They’re both served by the fast Freccia trains, making travel quick and easy.
So, for those with a car looking to enjoy the region without the crowds, here are my two top recommendations for places to stay near Pisa. And yes, I’m skipping Florence because, well, it’s the obvious choice!
Where to stay near Pisa (with a car)
- Viareggio – a charming seaside town, known for its beautiful sandy beaches
- Lucca – a small, beautifully preserved medieval town
Viareggio
If a beach holiday is what you’re craving, Viareggio is hard to beat. Located a 30-minute drive from Pisa, this coastal town is famous for its long sandy beaches and Art Nouveau architecture. In fact, it’s one of Tuscany’s top beach destinations! Staying in Viareggio means you get the best of both worlds – a relaxing beach retreat with easy access to Tuscany’s highlights.
Here are my recommendations for where to stay in Viareggio.
Versilia Lido – Best 4-star
Set along the beach in Lido di Camaiore, this hotel is just a quick 5-minute drive from Viareggio’s centre. You’ll find plenty to enjoy, from the indoor and outdoor pools to a relaxing spa with a Turkish bath. In the evening, the Versilia Roof Bar & Restaurant serves up Tuscan specialities with gorgeous sunset views over the Gulf of Poets. And free bicycles make it easy to explore the promenade and nearby towns at your own pace.
Grand Hotel Principe Di Piemonte – Best 5-star
For a luxury escape, book a room at the Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte. This 5-star hotel sits right on the beach and is only a short walk (or a 5-minute drive) from the centre of Viareggio. Its Piccolo Principe Restaurant is the only two-Michelin-star spot on the Tuscan coast, and breakfast here has been voted the Best Breakfast in Italy. Head to the rooftop for more delicious dining, a stylish bar, and a pool with stunning views over the Versilia coast.
Lucca
Lucca completely stole my heart the first time I visited. This charming medieval town is the ideal spot if you’re after a more peaceful, laid-back base. It’s the kind of place where you can wander cobblestone streets, drink coffee in sunny piazzas, and still be perfectly placed to explore the best of northern Tuscany.
Here are my recommendations for where to stay in Lucca. You can find more options in my complete guide to the best hotels in Lucca, Italy.
Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli – Best 4-star
Just steps from Lucca’s main shopping street, this charming boutique hotel is perfectly placed for exploring the city on foot. Rooms are spacious and feature beautiful wall frescoes, adding a touch of history to your stay. Mornings start with a delicious breakfast with fresh-squeezed orange juice and honey straight from the comb. Plus, if you’re driving, private parking is conveniently located a short walk away.
FAQs about where to stay in Pisa
The Santa Maria district is ideal for staying in Pisa. It’s close to the Leaning Tower and main attractions, with plenty of cafes and shops nearby. Staying here lets you easily explore on foot and enjoy quieter times at the tower.
Pisa itself doesn’t have a beach directly in the city since it’s located along the Arno River. The nearest seaside town is Marina di Pisa, located at the mouth of the Arno River on the coast, just a 15-minute drive from Pisa.
The closest is Marina di Pisa, just a short drive away. But I recommend Viareggio (about 30 minutes by car) for its sandy beaches and charming promenade. It offers a more classic Tuscan seaside vibe.
Florence is the better choice for a longer stay thanks to its rich art, history, and a better selection of restaurants. It also has a more central location for exploring the highlights of Tuscany. And while both Florence and Pisa are served by fast Freccia trains, only Florence is served by the Frecciarossa, Italy’s fastest high-speed train. Pisa is served by Frecciargento (semi-high-speed) and Frecciabianca (fast) trains, but not by Frecciarossa.
Yes, you can walk from Pisa Airport to Pisa Centrale station, it takes about 30 minutes on foot. However, if you have a lot of luggage, it’s better to take the Pisa Mover. It’s a convenient shuttle train that connects the airport directly to Pisa Centrale in just a few minutes.
There is no hotel directly inside Pisa Airport. The closest hotel is the Blue Shades Hotel, which is about a 10-minute walk from the airport.
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