Things to Do Near Pisa: The Best Day Trips from Pisa & the Surrounding Countryside

When people think of Pisa, the image that usually comes to mind is the Leaning Tower. And rightly so — it’s one of the most recognizable landmarks in Italy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable feat of medieval architecture.

But once you’ve visited the Piazza dei Miracoli, many travelers start wondering what else there is to see and do.

That’s a very fair question, and one I answer in two separate posts. The first focuses on things to do in Pisa itself, beyond the Leaning Tower. The second — this post — is dedicated to day trips and things to do near Pisa, in the surrounding countryside and along the coast. I recommend reading both to get a clear sense of your options.

What Towns Near Pisa Are Worth Visiting?

The countryside around Pisa is often underestimated, but it’s genuinely beautiful — provided you know where to go.

Drive 20–40 minutes outside the city, and you’ll find rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and small villages that strongly recall the Val d’Orcia. In fact, I sometimes refer to this area as the “other Orcia Valley”: similar landscapes, far more tranquility.

What surprises many travelers is how authentic these towns feel. That’s because this area has largely escaped mass tourism — which makes it ideal for relaxed, rewarding day trips.

Where to Go Near Pisa to Avoid the Crowds

Many visitors tell me they felt overwhelmed by the crowds in Florence, Siena, or Montepulciano. The good news? The places listed below offer quieter alternatives, with landscapes that are just as compelling — and far less hectic.

The Best Day Trips from Pisa

Lari – A Hidden Hill Town Near Pisa

Lari is a compact hill town dominated by the Castello dei Vicari, which offers sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. The historic center is small but inviting, and a visit to the castle provides insight into the area’s medieval past.

Lari is also home to the Martelli pasta factory, a long-established artisanal producer known for high-quality dried pasta — a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in traditional Italian food production.

Peccioli – Italians Know It Well; Visitors Are Just Discovering It

I really like Peccioli. It combines a well-preserved historic center with a thoughtful program of contemporary art installations scattered throughout the town and surrounding landscape. The contrast works surprisingly well, and the countryside around it is especially beautiful.

Chianni – Small, Quiet, and Very Tuscan

Chianni is a small village surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. There are few formal attractions (there's more to see in Peccioli and Lari), but its charm lies in its simplicity. It’s a perfect stop for a leisurely lunch or short break while exploring the countryside — ideal if your goal is to slow down rather than rush.

Terricciola – Wine Country Near Pisa

Terricciola has a winemaking tradition dating back to Etruscan times. While it’s less famous than Chianti or Bolgheri, it offers interesting opportunities for wine lovers curious about lesser-known Tuscan areas.

Quality varies, so choosing producers carefully matters — but several estates produce excellent wines at very reasonable prices. For that reason, I often include this area in my wine tours.

Lajatico – Teatro del Silenzio & the Valdera Landscape

Lajatico is best known as the hometown of Andrea Bocelli and for the Teatro del Silenzio, an open-air amphitheater set into the hills. Once a year it hosts a major concert event, but even outside that period, the site is worth visiting for its setting alone.

The surrounding Valdera landscape is gentle and scenic, making this a pleasant stop during a countryside drive.

Palaia – Medieval Streets and Wide Views

Palaia is a medieval hill town characterized by narrow streets, historic churches, and wide views over forests and rolling hills. It’s a good destination for travelers interested in walking, photography, or simply experiencing a quieter rhythm of life.

Nearby Montefoscoli also has a small rural museum — charming, though opening hours remain unpredictable.

Pontedera – The Piaggio (Vespa) Museum

I love this little place (the museum, not the town)! Pontedera itself is a modern town, but it’s home to the Piaggio Museum, which tells the story of the Vespa and Italian industrial design. Even visitors with little interest in vehicles often find it engaging.

It’s also one of the easiest day trips from Pisa, as it can be reached by train.

San Rossore Natural Park – Nature Just Outside Pisa

Located just outside Pisa, San Rossore Natural Park includes forests, wetlands, farmland, and a stretch of coastline. It can be explored on foot, by bicycle, or through guided visits.

This is an excellent option if you’d like to balance cultural sightseeing with time in nature.

Marina di Pisa – Beaches Near the City

Marina di Pisa is a small seaside town popular with locals. While it’s not a classic resort destination, it’s a pleasant place for a walk along the waterfront or a casual seafood lunch.

There are both free beaches and serviced beach clubs (“bagni”). If you want a sunbed and umbrella, booking ahead is strongly recommended.

Calci – Natural History Museum & Monte Pisano

Calci lies at the foot of the Monte Pisano range and is best known for the Natural History Museum, housed in a former monastery (the Certosa). The whale skeleton hall is particularly impressive.

The surrounding countryside is ideal for short walks and scenic drives, and the area is also known for producing excellent olive oil.

Practical Planning: Visiting the Area Around Pisa

How Far Are Towns Near Pisa?

All the places mentioned here are between 30 minutes and one hour from Pisa.

Can You Visit the Countryside from Pisa in One Day?

Yes. With a full day, you can comfortably visit one winery and two villages, and still return to Pisa in the evening.

Do You Need a Car to Explore Near Pisa?

For most destinations, yes. However:

• Pontedera is reachable by train

• Marina di Pisa by bus

• San Rossore by bicycle

How Many Days Should You Spend in Pisa?

One full day is ideal for Pisa itself. Adding one or two extra days allows you to explore the surrounding countryside at a relaxed pace. With wine tastings or cooking classes, you can easily fill three to four days.

Is Lucca Close to Pisa?

Yes — Lucca is easily reachable by train, no car required. It’s a wonderful addition to a Pisa-based itinerary, especially if you enjoy food experiences or slower-paced towns.

Final Thoughts: Why the Area Around Pisa Is Worth Exploring

The area around Pisa offers a quieter, more understated version of Tuscany — one that rewards curiosity and a slower pace. While it may lack the fame of Florence or Siena, it more than makes up for it with authenticity, landscape, and space.

For travelers willing to look beyond the obvious, the Pisa Hills and nearby coast offer some of the most rewarding day trips in Tuscany.

If you’d like to explore Pisa and its surroundings like a local, we also offer guided food tours, wine tastings, and countryside experiences. Feel free to get in touch for details: info@travel-italy-guru.com