Destination: Pisa

Pisa is one of those must-visit destinations, a popular city with adults and children alike. It has a wonderful old world feel, with cobbled streets, bustling marketplaces and plenty of small tourist shops that keep even the hardened traveller occupied for hours.

Its iconic tourist attraction, the Leaning Tower of Pisa may be central to its tourist trade, but with its location so close to the Mediterranean Sea, there are plenty of options for families with young children who want to do more than visit the ancient museums and buildings of the main town.

Pisa revels in its tourist status, and because it’s so popular, it has ensured that its transportation network and hotel industry are well organised and of a very high standard. This makes it easy for families to find their way around the city using public buses, and there are plenty of hotels to choose from, even in the centre of the city itself, that cater for every budget.

Italy has a warm climate, which is what makes it such a popular tourist destination throughout the year. The best time to go is in June, just prior to the university in Pisa opening its doors and allowing floods of Italian students to roam the streets freely. The weather at this time of year is usually in the low twenties, so it’s great for families with young children.

Things to do in Pisa with kids

Although Pisa isn’t the largest of Italian cities, there is still quite a lot of it to see, and a great way to get around is on a Segway tour through its streets. Your tours includes complimentary rainwear in case of inclement weather, the services of an English speaking guide, and a 30 minute practice session to get the hang of these strange contraptions. Your two hour tour of the city will not only be educational, but a whole lot of fun as well. Children must be 12 and over to take part. More details...

If Segway’s aren’t your idea of fun, but you’d still like an active trip around the city for your family, then hop aboard a bicycle and enjoy the same style of tour. The age limit for kids doesn’t exist either, although children must be comfortable on a bicycle, and very young children may become tired or restless before the end of the tour. More details...

Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa and grab a gelato at one of the authentic Italian cafes at its base. The Leaning Tower isn’t open for visitors to climb at the moment, but it is still a fascinating monument to see firsthand. The Tower is built in a square that sees a market gather on the first Saturday of every month, and the whole family will enjoy browsing the little tourist stands in the area. More details...

Take the opportunity to enjoy the sights of the surrounding countryside by taking a boat trip on the Arno River. This delightful afternoon activity is the perfect way for a family to unwind in the warmth of the Italian sunshine, and it is the perfect escape from what is actually a very hectic city.

Family friendly hotels in Pisa

The Charming 4 star Hotel Bologna is located in the historic centre of Pisa. The rooms are large and spacious, with tea and coffee making facilities. The service is impeccable as is the breakfast! All children under 12 years stay free of charge when using existing beds. More details...

A little out of Pisa itself, is the design Hotel of B&B Live 09, surrounded by a large garden and set in a quiet location. Here you will find contemporary and spacious accommodation, fully air conditioned and equipped the apartments equipped with microwave and fridge. A few steps away you will find the bus stop to Pisa Centre. More details...

Family friendly holidays to Tuscany

Thomson and Citalia, the leading Italian specialists both offer family friendly holidays to this area.

Eco friendly holidays in Pisa

How about a genuine eco-friendly farmhouse in the stunning countryside? The farmhouses are in an excellent position approx 20 minutes by road from both Pisa and Lucca. There are two, both catering up to 7 guests each, which would suit larger families. This holiday location is also ideal for those families looking for some daytime activities such as walking, cycling, or horse-riding as well as those looking for a peaceful location to relax, and swim, whilst taking in the uninterrupted views of Pisa and beyond. More details...

To help reduce your carbon footprint, Pisa can be reached by train. On the sleeper train between Paris and Florence, you could leave London at lunchtime, and be in Pisa by the next morning.