Exploring Pisa with kids: A family-friendly guide
Pisa, Italy, renowned for its iconic Leaning Tower, is not only a destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts but also a fantastic place to visit with kids. From exploring historic landmarks to enjoying delicious gelato, Pisa offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that will delight both children and adults alike. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the top things to do in Pisa with kids, including a visit to a local playground, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable family adventure.
Marvel at the Leaning Tower of Pisa:
- Start your Pisa adventure with a visit to the Leaning Tower, one of Italy’s most famous landmarks. Kids will be fascinated by the tower’s distinctive tilt and can have fun taking perspective photos to make it look like they’re holding it up.
- While climbing the tower may not be suitable for very young children, older kids will love ascending the spiral staircase to enjoy panoramic views of Pisa from the top.
- I recommend bringing pen and paper, and challenging each other to paint what you’re looking at whether that’s the people or the stunning buildings.
Explore Piazza dei Miracoli:
- The Leaning Tower is just one part of Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that also includes the stunning Pisa Cathedral and Baptistry.
- Take a leisurely stroll around the square with your kids, admiring the magnificent architecture and learning about the history of these iconic buildings.
Visit the Museo delle Sinopie and the Cathedral Museum:
- For a dose of culture and history, head to the Museo delle Sinopie and the Cathedral Museum, located near the Leaning Tower.
- The Museo delle Sinopie houses the original preparatory drawings (sinopie) for the frescoes of the Camposanto Monumentale, providing a fascinating glimpse into the artistic process.
- The Cathedral Museum features a collection of sculptures, artifacts, and religious art from the Pisa Cathedral, offering insights into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Arno River:
- After exploring the historic center, take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a relaxing stroll along the picturesque Arno River
- Stop by the Ponte di Mezzo (Middle Bridge) to take in views of the river and the charming riverside buildings, and let your kids watch the boats passing by.
Indulge in gelato and other treats:
- No visit to Italy is complete without savoring some delicious gelato, and Pisa has plenty of gelaterias to choose from.
- Treat your kids to scoops of creamy gelato in a variety of flavors, and don’t forget to sample other Italian delights like pizza, pasta, and pastries during your visit.
Visit a local playground:
- For some outdoor fun and playtime, head to a local playground in Pisa where your kids can run, climb, and swing to their heart’s content.
- One recommended playground is “Parco di San Rossore,” located near the Piazza dei Miracoli. Here, kids can enjoy various play structures, open spaces for running around, and maybe even make some new friends.
For rainydays:
On rainy days, I highly recommend visiting: Museo di storia naturale dell’Università di Pisa.
There is so much to see, a bit to touch and plenty of room to explore.
We had it all to ourselves, when we were there.
Conclusion:
Visiting Pisa with kids is a delightful experience that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re marveling at the Leaning Tower, exploring the historic center, indulging in gelato, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the Arno River, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming Italian city. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to create unforgettable memories with your family in Pisa!
