The Best Free Things to Do in Pisa

Strolling along the sweeping, curving roads that hug the historic river is an absolutely essential and completely free experience. The banks are lined with an incredible array of elegant, pastel coloured palaces that reflect beautifully in the water below. During the evening, the streetlights cast a magical, golden glow over the entire scene, creating a deeply romantic atmosphere. It is the perfect way to absorb the faded, aristocratic grandeur of the city without spending a penny.

This massive, brilliant piece of modern street art is completely accessible and completely free to view at any time. Painted by the legendary Keith Haring, the vibrant, interlocking figures cover the entire side wall of a historic convent. The cartoonish, deeply energetic style provides a fantastic and highly photogenic contrast to the ancient brickwork of the city. Finding this brilliant splash of modern colour just steps from the station is a joyful discovery.

This stunning, expansive square serves as the intellectual heart of the city and is completely free to wander through. It is entirely surrounded by breathtaking Renaissance architecture, most notably the incredibly ornate facade of the elite university headquarters. The open space is frequently filled with students relaxing between classes, giving it a vibrant, lived in atmosphere. It is a fantastic place to sit, people watch, and soak in the profound academic history of the area.

Take a short bus ride out of the urban centre to enjoy the refreshing, open air environment of the coastline. The beaches here are highly unique, composed entirely of smooth, gleaming white marble pebbles rather than traditional sand. Access to these beautiful, rugged stretches of coastline is completely free, making it a fantastic budget escape during the hot summer months. The sweeping views of the sea and the distant mountains are absolutely spectacular.