7 must see parks in Pisa

Set along the banks of the Arno River, Pisa is a historic town in the Tuscany region of Italy, best known for its iconic Leaning Tower. Its convenient location, just an hour from Florence, allows for frequent day trips and visits from tourists from all over the world. Besides its UNESCO World Heritage site, Piazza del Duomo, Pisa is known for its medieval palaces, historic churches, beautiful squares, art and culture, and delicious genuine Tuscan food.

Apart from its architectural treasures, Pisa has many parks and green spaces that allow locals and tourists to escape the crowds and connect with nature. Parks in Pisa are scattered across the entire city, making it convenient to find one no matter where you are. And when you spot the perfect park to stretch your legs or do your morning yoga session, don't let your heavy bags stop you. Download the Bounce app to find luggage storage with locations near the parks in Pisa and drop off your bags, no matter their size. Admire the natural wonders of Pisa without your belongings slowing you down.

Orto Botanico di Pisa

Set along the banks of the Arno River is the oldest botanical garden in Pisa, and the first university botanical garden in the world, founded in the 16th century. This is Pisa's most visited landmark and stretches across 3 hectares in the heart of the historic center, just a stone's throw from the leaning tower of Pisa. You can see treasured tourist attractions before picking up lunch and heading for the gardens.

A large green space, the gardens are home to different species of plants from all over the world, trees, flowerbeds, ponds, and greenhouses. At the Orto Botanico, you'll see centennial trees such as a ginkgo and magnolia tree from the end of the 18th century. You'll also spot plenty of cacti and medicinal and aquatic plants. You can round off your experience at The Botanical Museum, founded in 1591 by Ferdinando I de Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany. The museum houses lovely collections of 17th-century portraits by famous botanists. You'll also find objects the university uses to teach botany, such as watercolors and a herbarium.

Expect to spend half a day in this beautiful garden, so plan your day in advance. This is not just a must-see for adults; families with children will enjoy their time too. The entry fee to the gardens is about €4, but if you're there on the first Sunday of the month, you can get in for free. Walking and exploring may leave you thirsty, but there's no need to worry, as cafes are nearby to quench your thirst or grab a bite to eat.

The Migliarino San Rossore Nature Park

Stretching across 24,000 hectares between the province of Pisa and Lucca is The Migliarino San Rossore Nature Park, boasting vast green space, gardens, woodsy trails, estates, and historic buildings. Recognized as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, the park was founded in 1979 and has remained a major point of interest for both tourists and locals ever since. Whether you want to learn about the area's history, enjoy a day at one of the beaches, or escape the hustle and bustle of the city center altogether, this is just the place.

Apart from many organic farms, at San Rossore Park, you'll come across multiple natural reserves, wetlands, and beaches to cool down on a hot summer day. There are many hiking and trekking trails and cycling paths for those who want to get in their daily exercise. You can also learn more about the environment if you take the birdwatching itinerary or walk The Path of The Three Pines, among many others. Whatever your interest, you'll find it at this nature park in Pisa.

San Rossore Park is also home to important historic landmarks, including the Roman Massaciuccoli archaeological area, The Basilica San Piero in Grado, and Puccini House. If you don't want to miss out on a thing, pick up brochures from the visitor center of Cascine Vecchie. For the ultimate experience, it's best to book a guided tour, which includes a carriage ride, a train ride, or a boat. If you forget to pack your lunch, don't despair. There are a few on-site restaurants serving a variety of food.

Giardino Scotto

Located on the south bank of the Arno River, a few steps from the city center, Giardino Scotto, also known as the Citadella Nuova, was not always a park. The citadel dates back to the 15th century when the Florentines built it to take control over and defend the city from the Pisans. It wasn't until 1789 that the fort was taken over by the Scotto family, who turned it into a palace with vast green spaces. Though most of it was destroyed during World War II, the gardens survived.

Today, Giardino Scotto features a garden, an amphitheater, and a large recreational area surrounded by centennial trees, one of which is a giant sycamore, which, according to legend, is believed to have been planted by Carlo Goldoni during a theatrical performance in the Verdi Theatre of Pisa.

Dedicate a couple of hours to visiting one of the most popular parks in Pisa and enjoying everything the palace has to offer. You can relax in the shade and watch a movie at the open-air cinema or explore nature away from the city noise and crowds. When hunger strikes, step out of the fort to find a cafe or a restaurant; there are many nearby.

Parco Urbano dei Santi Cosimo e Damiano

When looking to isolate yourself from the chaos of the city, this small and romantic garden is the perfect respite. Located in the heart of Pisa, just a short walk from Santa Maria della Spina, this hidden gem of a park offers a lot to visitors despite its small size. In the center of Pisa, the park features a fountain, benches, a pergola, sculptures, kids' drawings, and a stage for small concerts or shows.

The garden provides the perfect sensory adventure with various plants, such as banana trees, pomegranates, roses, cypresses, rosemary, and lavender shrubs. Spending time in this multifunctional space may give you the impression you're on someone's private property, but you can take all the time you need to relax and recharge. Being centrally located, there are multiple food options nearby.

Il Pineto Parco Avventura

More than a nature park, Park Pineto in Marina di Pisa, near Bocca D'Arno, is the perfect day trip for the entire family. Prepare yourself for a day filled with adventure and fun for all ages at this large amusement park within the regional park of Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli.

Over 50 acres of pine forest dotted with resting spots, walking trails, food stands, and more make this place one of the best parks in Pisa for activities with kids. Whether you're looking for stimulating activities on the ground or acrobatic adventures among the pine trees, Il Pineto has you covered.

Training is provided for everyone looking to use the treetop adventure park and the ropes courses. The fun happens 50 feet from the ground and 5 feet for children under 7 years of age. If you're scared of heights, you can stay on the ground, take an archery session, have a picnic, make barbeque, or sip on coffee at the restaurant, surrounded by nature and a peaceful setting.

Parco Alfredo Solarino

A small park along the historical Medici's aqueduct, Parco Alfredo Solarino, or Parc Don Bosco, provides a beautiful relaxing spot for families, children, and anyone looking to escape the city crowds. Surrounded by old pine trees, the park features a small playground with swings, slides and a climbing wall to keep kids entertained for a while.

Built in the 16th century by Ferdinando de Medici on the model of a Roman aqueduct, the Medici Aqueduct stretches 3.7 miles from San Rocco in Valle delle Fonti to Piazza delle Gondole. A large infrastructure, the aqueduct consists of 934 arches and makes an interesting route to follow to get from Asciano to the walls of Pisa, which are surrounded by beautiful landscape.

Part of that is Parco Alfredo Solarino, which features a fountain, walking and cycling trails, seating areas, and gym equipment for outdoor exercise. This is a great park to ride a bike, do outdoor workouts, walk your dog, or let your kids run freely. Regarding food, you can either pack your picnic basket and enjoy lunch at the benches and tables or head down to the restaurants and cafes for a different culinary experience.

Piazza del Duomo

Not quite like any of the above-mentioned parks in Pisa, the Piazza del Duomo is a monumental complex set in a large green space, and it's the most visited place in Pisa. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Piazza del Duomo, also known as the Square of Miracles or Piazza dei Miracoli, comprises a unique cluster of monuments built in the Middle Ages: Camposanto, the cemetery, the Cathedral of Pisa, the Baptistery, and the bell tower or the Leaning Tower, the most well-known spot in Pisa.

A visit to the Piazza Duomo will cost you about $35, depending on the type of ticket. If you want to explore all of the monuments, check the opening hours, as they vary depending on the season. Some of the monuments have a dress code, such as the Cathedral. Besides being a visit of historical significance, you get to do your daily exercise as the Baptistry and the Leaning Tower require a lot of climbing, which is optional. While there, don't forget to check out The Pisa Sinopie Museum and the Pisa Opera del Duomo Museum to learn more about the frescoes of CampoSanto and the history of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

For the ultimate experience, you can book a guided tour, but you can also explore the historic heart of Pisa on your own. Whether you're a history buff, interested in architecture, or want an educational activity day with the family, The Square of Miracles is just the place. And when you've had enough lessons from history, head out of the complex and go to one of the many restaurants nearby.

The best parks in Pisa to connect with nature and travel back in time

Pisa is a must-see for everyone who appreciates art, architecture and history. While exploring the city and all it has to offer, you may want to find a retreat in one of the many parks in Pisa. Pisa is home to many natural parks and colorful gardens, each one unique on its own. Whether you're looking to spend a quiet day with the family or have a picnic on the grass surrounded by nothing but trees, flowerbeds, and birdsong, the things you can do at the parks in Pisa are endless.

If you're feeling a little adventurous and have more time to spare, check out all the great options for hiking in Pisa. And if you want to have a delightful experience by the shore, head to a seaside resort to rest on a sandy beach with a cocktail. The beaches in Pisa are not to be missed.