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How to Travel to Pisa from Livorno cruise port in 2023
Essential guide for cruise passengers to the port of Livorno to travel to Pisa on your own by shuttle, bus, rail or taxi and how to get to top things to do and see.
By: Editor-in-Chief Updated: May 20, 2023
Pisa is one of the most popular towns in Tuscany amongst cruise ship excursions and passengers. It is also one of the main reasons why cruise ships dock in Livorno.
- The shuttle from the port
- Travel to Pisa by private shutlle
- Travel to Pisa by rail
- Travel to Pisa by public bus
Travel to Pisa by taxi
Travel to pisa by car rental car.
Pisa is the closest of all the destinations on cruise traveler's must-see-list when calling at this port in the West coast of Italy. Naturally, all cruise lines offer shore excursions to Pisa. But it should be noted that most of these shore excursions include other destinations such as Lucca or Florence .
Inevitably, cruise passengers on these excursions will not spend much more than 1 hour (two at best) in Pisa and will only explore the Piazza dei Miracoli with its 3 main attractions - the Leaning Tower , the Cathedral , and the Baptistery .
For those that would like to visit other sites and attractions in Pisa and fully enjoy the town, it is advisable to travel on your own, especially because it is so easy to do so by rail, public bus or a transfer shuttle.
The shuttle from the port to the Livorno
Unless you are on a shore excursion, you will have to get to the historical city center of Livorno to travel to any of the top destinations in Tuscany independently, or on your own.
The good news is that the port of Livorno authority provides a free shuttle to the heart of Livorno with its drop off stop at the Piazza Municipio. The shuttle takes around 10 minutes and runs regularly every 15 to 20 minutes.
Piazza Municipio is in the heart of Livorno's historical center. Close to the shuttle bus drop-off, or nearby, you will find a city sightseeing bus stop , the stop for the Tuscany Bus and a taxi rank .
The stop for the public bus to Pisa used to be behind the Cathedral but it has changed in the last years. The bus stop is now on Piazza della Repubblica, around 10 to 15-minute walk from Piazza Municipio.
Right across the street where the shuttle bus stops, you will see right away a taxi rank, which will charge around €8.00 to take you to the railway station.
Travel to Pisa by private shutlle (TuscanyBus)
The fastest and most convenient way to travel to Pisa is by using the TuscanyBus service. This is not a guided tour but just a straightforward transfer from Livorno to Pisa. Although it is fast and reliable, cruise travelers must know that schedules and availability are limited.
Therefore, you need to book your tickets online and well in advance - don't leave it for the last days before calling at the Port of Livorno. To find out more about the TuscanyBus schedules and prices visit the official website in English: www.tuscanybus
As mentioned, the TuscanyBus pick up stop is on Piazza Municipio, right in front of the free shuttle bus drop off from the cruise port in Livorno. The TuscanyBus drop off stop in Pisa is within a few minutes walking distance to Piazza dei Miracoli. Therefore, the TuscanyBus is the most convenient way to get to Pisa and explore this magnificent city on your own.
How to travel by rail from Livorno cruise port to Pisa
Traveling by rail from Livorno to Pisa is another convenient way of exploring Pisa on your own and is very affordable considering that fares start at €2.50 for a 15 to 20-minute ride. However, you will need to get from the cruise port to the Railway Station in Livorno.
There are two ways of getting from the port to Livorno Centrale (as the railway station in Livorno is officialy named): by shuttle bus to Piazza Municipio and then public bus, or by taxi directly from the port.
To get on a public bus from Piazza Municipio shuttle drop off to the railways station is relatively easy. All you need to do is walk to the big square (Piazza Duomo) right behind Piazza Municipio and then turn right into Via Grande. Cross the street and the bus stop for Lam Blu (LB) line is right on the first block.
Alternatively, instead of turning right you can turn left on Via Grande, but make sure you cross the street. The Lam Blu (LB) Bus stop is right by the H&M department store.
To use Livorno's public bus network, you need to buy a bus ticket, as cash is not accepted at the bus. Public Buses have a fixed fare of €1.20 and are valid for 75 minutes. It is advisable to buy two tickets (for both ways).
Bus tickets can be acquired at tobacconists (Tabacchi). Right on the opposite side of where the cruise ship shuttle bus stop (on Via Cogorano) you will find a tobacconist - just look for the sign Tabacchi.
Alternatively, go to the Tourist Office and buy a Livorno Card, which offers unlimited rides for 24 hours on public buses. The tourist office in Livorno is inside the large building next to shuttle bus from the port. Click here to read more about how to travel by bus in Livorno.
Once at the railway station (Livorno Centrale), you will have many train choices.
There are 5 trains to Pisa in the early morning every hour (on weekdays) and 6 (between 8:00 am and 10:00 am on Sundays). The journey takes between 15 and 20 minutes and costs €2.50.
![Railway Station Pisa Destination of Livorno Cruise Port Photo of Railway Station in Pisa, Tuscany, Italy](https://www.iqcruising.com/images/photos/Pisa-Railway-Station-1-photo-by-R.Rosado-©-IQCruising.com.jpg)
Pisa Train Station
Photo © IQCruising.com
Keep in mind that the "Frecciabianca" service is way more expensive - considering the journey duration and that it will cost €10.00 for a second-class ticket not worth it at all.
![Railway Train Station Pisa Destination of Livorno Cruise Port Photo of Railway Train Station Pisa, Tuscany, Italy](https://www.iqcruising.com/images/photos/Pisa-Railway-Station-3-photo-by-R.Rosado-©-IQCruising.com.jpg)
Here is, step by step, how to get from your cruise ship to the railway station in Livorno:
- Free shuttle bus from the port to Piazza Municipio
- Walk to Via Grande and take Lam Blue bus to Livorno Centrale - €1.20 each way (buy two tickets)
- Alternatively, take a taxi from Piazza Municipio (shuttle bus drop-off) to the railway station - around €8.00
- Take a taxi from the port straight to the railway station - may cost up to €20.00
You will arrive at Pisa Centrale railway station and once there you have two choices. Our favorite choice is to go on a relaxed 20 to 30-minute walk through the city all the way to the Piazza dei Miracoli (where the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery are located).
Along the way, you will pass by or have the option to make short diversions to see off-the-beaten-track museums, art and religious sites such as:
- St. Mathew's National Museum
- Keith Haring's Tuttomondo Mural
- Church of Saint Mary
- Saint Catherine's Church
- Palazzo dei Cavalieri (The Knights Palace)
- Palazzo dell’Orologio (Clock Palace)
Instead of walking to Piazza dei Miracoli from Pisa Centrale railway station you can get on another train to the railway station of Pisa S Rossore - a secondary train station that is only a 5-minute walk away from the Piazza dei Miracoli.
![S. Rossore Railway Station Pisa Destination of Livorno Cruise Port Photo of S. Rossore Railway Station in Pisa, Tuscany, Italy](https://www.iqcruising.com/images/photos/Pisa-S.Rossoore-Railway-Station-photo-by-R.Rosado-©-IQCruising.com.jpg)
Pisa S Rossore Train Station
The journey time between Pisa Centrale and Pisa S Rossore is 5 minutes. However, in some cases, you may have to wait for 30 to 40 minutes for the connecting train.
If you prefer, Pisa has a good public bus network, and you may want to take a bus back to the Railway station. The stop for this bus is close to the Leaning Tower, right by the Museum of the Cathedral - look out for the City Sightseeing Bus Stop.
![Sightseeing Bus Pisa Destination of Livorno Cruise Port Photo of Sightseeing Bus in Pisa, Tuscany, Italy](https://www.iqcruising.com/images/photos/Pisa-Sightseeing-2-photo-by-R.Rosado-©-IQCruising.com.jpg)
Public Bus in Pisa
How to travel by public bus from Livorno port to Pisa
Although the public bus drive from Livorno to Pisa takes longer than the TuscanyBus shuttle or the train, this can be a good transportation alternative.
The public bus to Pisa is ideal if you would like to stop at one of the beautiful beaches of Tirrenia, or for a unique lunch in Marina di Pisa savoring "Cacciucco" (a soup made of various sea creatures, wine, tomato, hot peppers, and garlic).
It should also be noted that the traveler would save some time as you will not need to take a bus or a taxi to the railway station. All added up, the bus ride would take about 20 minutes longer than the train.
![Bus Station Pisa Destination of Livorno Cruise Port Photo of Bus Station Pisa, Tuscany, Italy](https://www.iqcruising.com/images/photos/Pisa-Bus-Station-photo-by-R.Rosado-©-IQCruising.com.jpg)
Pisa Bus Station
The Bus Nº 10 stop is located on Piazza Repubblica in Livorno, around 15-minute walk from Piazza Municipio where the port shuttle bus stops. Bus Nº 10 runs between Livorno and Pisa, every 30 minutes (between 6:00 am and 10:00 pm). The journey to Pisa takes around one hour.
The bus stops along the way at the beaches of Tirrenia , at Marina the Pisa and at a couple of small villages before arriving in Pisa.
The Bus Station in Pisa is not far from the railway station and, therefore, you will be at about the same walking distance (around one mile away) from the major attractions in Pisa.
Because Bus Nº 10 is an inter-city service you will not be on the most comfortable bus in the world but considering the journey time it can be a nice way to travel to Pisa. To return to Livorno , the bus departs every 30 minutes (last bus at 8:00 pm). The fare for this Bus is €4.00 and is NOT included in the Livorno Card.
Finally, a word about traveling by taxi to Pisa. Most taxi drivers waiting for cruise passengers at the port of Livorno, expect a long journey to the farthest destinations such as Florence , Siena or San Gimignano .
Pisa is so close to Livorno that taxi drivers will only do it for a high fare. Some drivers may ask as much as €200.00 for a ride to Pisa and back with a couple of hours waiting time. We find this to be an exorbitant fare and always prefered to travel with the TuscanyBus, by public bus pr train.
However, if traveling with a group of 4 you may try to negotiate this exorbitant fare. There are reports of taxi drivers accepting €120.00 for the return drive with more than a couple of hours waiting time.
Aparently, the trick is to let all your fellow cruise passengers to leave the ship and then approach the taxi drivers left behind.
Car rental is the least advisable way of traveling from the cruise port in Livorno to Pisa. Although car rental is ideal to visit destinations such as San Gimignano , Siena and Volterra , we find it too much of a hassle if you planning to explore Pisa on your own.
Besides the fact that there are cheaper and easier ways to travel to Pisa, parking in Pisa is both complicated and expensive.
► Explore: Tuscany Destinations and Livorno All Reviews and Guides to Livorno Cruise Port Destinations - Florence, Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano, Volterra, Cinque Terra and Livorno in Depth Learn More ►
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Livorno Cruise Port to Pisa DIY Guide to Tower & Hidden Gems
Pisa’s Leaning Tower is practically begging for your selfie 😆, and thankfully, getting there from Livorno is a breeze. With frequent trains and a short journey, it’s a hassle-free DIY cruise excursion. But before you rush back to the ship, Pisa offers much more than just a wonky building – let’s explore!
Not sure Pisa is the right destination? Read your options in my Livorno cruise port guide – Florence, Lucca and Livorno – they’re all there to help you decide!
On This Page
- From Livorno Cruise Port: Is a DIY Excursion Easy? 😎😎😎😎 (Straightforward)
- Planning Your Pisa Day Trip? Here's What You Need to Know
Climbing the Leaning Tower
Piazza dei miracoli (square of miracles), stroll along the arno river, explore the borgo stretto.
- Experience Pisa's University Charm
3. Experience Tuscan Flavours in Pisa
From livorno cruise port: is a diy excursion easy 😎😎😎😎 (straightforward).
Besides staying in Livorno itself, I would rate a day-trip to Pisa as the easiest DIY excursion from Livorno cruise port. Here’s why I rate Pisa as a straightforward 😎😎😎😎 DIY excursion :
- Frequent train services between Livorno & Pisa : And the ride is only 20 minutes!
- Easy bus connections to Leaning Tower & key attractions from train station or you can just walk it and enjoy the views!
- And there’s enough to see to make a full day trip out of it! If you’re interested in only seeing the Leaning Tower, then you can combine Lucca (a nearby Tuscan town) with Pisa.
Planning Your Pisa Day Trip? Here’s What You Need to Know
Read my Livorno Guide on how to get from Livorno cruise port to Livorno train station for train connection to Pisa. Considering combing Pisa with Lucca? Read my DIY Lucca Guide for all the insider tips of what to see, do & eat when you get there!
- Bus: Many bus routes will take you from Pisa Centrale station to within a few minutes’ walk of the Square of Miracles. There’s so many I won’t list them here! Use Citymapper or Google Maps to see live departure times.
- Bus Tickets: (New in 2024!) All buses & trams in Tuscany now accept contactless cards (or Apple/Android Pay on your phones or smart watches). Single fares are €1.70 in Pisa (same as in Livorno). Just tap and go!
- Train to Pisa S. Rossore: Not all trains from Livorno will stop at Pisa S. Rossore station. If yours does, get off here instead! If not, check for connecting trains from Pisa Centrale. There’s usually a few trains an hour between Pisa Centrale and Pisa S. Rossore. This will save you much of the walk!
- Recommended Transport App: I would recommend using Citymapper – just change the city to Florence / Pisa. Citymapper will give you real-time access to rail departure times from Pisa Centrale.
- Official Websites: Turismo Pisa , Autolinne Toscane (local bus authority), and TrenItalia to check train timetables
- My Pisa Map: The attractions I mention below 👇 are in my map of Pisa; click on the upper right hand corner of the map to see a bigger version:
1. Must-See Pisa: Of Course, the Leaning Tower!
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks, and for good reason! Its unique tilt and marble beauty make for an unforgettable sight. This iconic bell tower began construction in 1173, but its soft foundation soon caused it to lean – a tilt that only became more pronounced over centuries. In 1350, the lean was reported to be around 1.4°. The lean reached 5° when a 10-year project to stabilise the Tower started in 1990. Here’s what you need to know for a smooth DIY visit:
- Tickets: Cathedral and Tower tickets are €20, the €27 “Complete” ticket will get you into all the attractions at the Square of Miracles (incl. Baptistery & Opera Museum). If you’re not keen to climb the Tower, the €10 ticket will let you into the Cathedral and Square of Miracles.
- Opening Hours: Generally 9am to 8pm daily, double check opening times on official website
- Running late ?: Tower tickets can theoretically be changed to a different time up till 2 hours but I doubt in reality that there will be alternative times for you to change to, on the day, especially during the peak summer months. So be sure to include a sufficient buffer when booking your tickets.
- The Climb: There’s 251 spiral steps but you get breathtaking views of the city and Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles)! Be aware that the climb is not suitable for those with mobility issues . Most take about 30 minutes to complete the climb.
- No kids under 8: Unfortunately kids under 8 are not permitted. Under 18s need to be accompanied by an adult.
- Avoid bringing valuables: You’ll be asked to leave bags at the cloakroom before the climb. If you’re bringing a day-pack, be prepared to take out your valuables (phone, wallet etc), so a small purse or fanny pack will be perfect.
- Audio Tour Tip: Listen to the free audio tour (30 mins), you can also download it onto your phone and listen to it when you get there!
![livorno cruise port to leaning tower of pisa Pisa Cathedral & Baptistry aerial view](https://diycruiseports.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Pisa-Cathedral_Baptistry.webp)
The Leaning Tower may be the star of the show, but it shares the spotlight with other architectural wonders that make up the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles). This name might sound unusual, but it has a fascinating origin. During the Middle Ages, this area was considered a sacred burial ground, and the presence of such magnificent buildings was seen as a “miracle.” Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason:
- The Duomo (Cathedral): Construction began in the 11th century, making it a prime example of Pisan Romanesque architecture. Its stunning facade features intricate black and white marble. Inside, be sure to look up and admire the breathtaking dome, adorned with mosaics depicting the life of the Virgin Mary.
- The Baptistery: Standing opposite the Cathedral, this large, circular building is Pisa’s Baptistery, where baptisms have been held for centuries. Take a moment to appreciate the incredible acoustics – sometimes you’ll hear the staff demonstrating them with a cappella singing, creating a truly magical experience. The Baptistery’s pulpit is a masterpiece of Pisan Romanesque sculpture, adorned with panels depicting scenes from the life of John the Baptist.
- Camposanto Monumentale (Monumental Cemetery): This might surprise you, but the Monumental Cemetery is another architectural gem within the Piazza dei Miracoli. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, it’s a vast cloister with elaborately decorated sarcophagi and frescoes lining the walls. The highlight is the Camposanto’s collection of frescoes by famous artists like Buonamico Buffalmacco and Benozzo Gozzoli, depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments.
- Opera della Primazia Pisana: This impressive building served as the administration center for the cathedral complex. Today, it houses art exhibits and the ‘Museo dell’ Opera del Duomo’, displaying sculptures, paintings, and treasures from the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Camposanto. Look for the stunning ‘Madonna and Child’ by Nino Pisano and the original griffins that once adorned the Cathedral’s roof.
- Sinopie Museum: Located in a former hospital, this museum offers a unique glimpse into the creation of frescoes. “Sinopie” are preparatory drawings that artists used to plan large-scale murals. The museum houses a collection of sinopie, including several that were originally on the walls of the Camposanto Monumentale. It offers a fascinating look into the artistic process and the restoration efforts that helped preserve the Campo Santo’s masterpieces.
Note: All of these attractions in the Square of Miracles are included in the €27 “Complete” ticket with Tower climb and the €10 “Complete” ticket without the Tower climb. Many visitors to Pisa only visit the Tower, the Cathedral and Baptistery. But I would also highly recommend the Opera della Primazia Pisana and the Sinopie Museum if you have the time. Here’s a glimpse of what there is to see:
2. Discovering Pisa’s Hidden Gems
Pisa offers far more than its famous Leaning Tower. Venturing beyond the Piazza dei Miracoli, you’ll discover charming streets, picturesque riverside walks, and a lively atmosphere that reflects Pisa’s status as a university town. Here are a few hidden gems to add to your Pisa itinerary:
![livorno cruise port to leaning tower of pisa Buildings along the Arno River front in Pisa, Tuscany](https://diycruiseports.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Pisa-Arno-River-Houses.webp)
The Arno River, which cuts through the heart of Pisa, offers a delightful change of pace from the crowds of the Piazza. Find a scenic walkway (Lungarni di Pisa) along either bank and enjoy views of historic buildings, bridges, and locals enjoying the waterfront. The Lungarno Mediceo on the north bank is a particularly charming spot, lined with grand palaces and historic churches.
This medieval street is Pisa’s main shopping artery, but it’s also a pleasure to wander simply for its atmosphere. Arcades line both sides, offering shade on sunny days and shelter from the rain. You’ll find a mix of high-end boutiques, local shops, cozy cafes, and historic buildings, like the 14th-century Palazzo degli Anziani.
Experience Pisa’s University Charm
Pisa has been a prominent university town since the Middle Ages, and this youthful energy adds a vibrant buzz to the city. Head to Piazza dei Cavalieri, once a center of Pisan political power, now a lively square surrounded by university buildings and cafes. From there, explore the surrounding streets for a taste of student life and a glimpse into Pisa’s academic heritage.
Pisa offers a delicious introduction to the rich culinary traditions of Tuscany. Here are some quintessential Tuscan dishes to try for lunch:
- Pappardelle al Cinghiale: This hearty, flavorful pasta dish features thick ribbons of pappardelle tossed in a rich sauce made with wild boar (cinghiale), a Tuscan specialty. It’s the perfect fuel for a day of exploring!
- Ribollita: This classic Tuscan soup is as comforting as it is delicious. It’s made with vegetables, beans, and leftover bread, simmered to perfection. A true taste of the region’s resourceful cuisine.
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina: If you’re a meat lover, don’t miss this iconic Florentine T-bone steak. Grilled simply over coals, it’s a celebration of Tuscany’s prized Chianina beef.
- Cantuccini: These dry almond biscuits are the perfect accompaniment to a sweet dessert wine like Vin Santo. Dunk and enjoy this classic Tuscan treat.
- Gelato: Of course, no Italian food experience is complete without indulging in authentic gelato. Pisa has plenty of excellent gelaterias to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Featured Image by Lorenzo Pacifico
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How to Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa Independently
![livorno cruise port to leaning tower of pisa Leaning Tower of Pisa](https://i0.wp.com/cruiselifestyle.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/IMG_2189.jpg?resize=1024%2C1024&ssl=1)
If your cruise ship visits Livorno in Italy, the two most popular sightseeing choices are Florence and Pisa. In this post I share the best way to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa independently , without needing to overspend on a cruise line shore excursion.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa
This landmark is actually a bell tower located next to the Cathedral of Pisa, in Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) in the city of Pisa. The square, so named for its uniqueness and artistic beauty, has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Construction of the tower began in 1173 and took 226 years to complete! It took such a long time to finish due to a number of reasons including war, debt and of course the lean, which started just five years after the building work commenced.
Pisa got it’s name from the Greek word for ‘marshy ground’ and this explains why the tower leaned to one side due to the soft ground. Interestingly, it’s not the only bell tower in Pisa that leans (there are two others) and the adjacent baptistery and cathedral are also sinking.
![livorno cruise port to leaning tower of pisa Leaning Tower of Pisa](https://i0.wp.com/cruiselifestyle.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/P1000237.jpg?resize=1440%2C1080&ssl=1)
The original height of the tower was 60m but it now stands at 56.67m on the highest side. There are 251 steps that take you from the bottom to the very top with an internal spiral stone staircase.
Getting to Pisa from Livorno
A shuttle bus will take you from the cruise terminal to the centre of Livorno and from here it’s possible to take a bus to Pisa. We decided to book a bus journey from Livorno to Pisa . The bus is a low cost option at around €17 per person. You can catch this bus at 10.00am from the Via Cogorano at the back of Piazza Grande (this is very handy as it’s where the cruise shuttle bus drops you).
The journey was approximately 40 minutes and there was plenty of pleasant Tuscan scenery to see during the short journey. When we arrived in Pisa, it was quite easy to follow the signposts and other tourists to get to the Tower (around 5-10 minutes walk). The walk takes you through a market where you can pick up souvenirs as well as drinks and snacks from the local cafes.
The bus will take you back to Livorno at 1pm, which gives you around 2 hours, 20 minutes. We chose to book the bus as it was as cheap as the train but far less stressful!
Do I Need a Ticket to See the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
You don’t need to buy tickets to be able to visit Miracle Square and see the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It’s free to walk around and take photos.
![livorno cruise port to leaning tower of pisa Leaning Tower of Pisa](https://i0.wp.com/cruiselifestyle.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/P1000257-edited.jpg?resize=1440%2C1920&ssl=1)
You will witness lots of people taking this photo but as you can see in the photo below, I actually had to stand on a post to get this shot!
![livorno cruise port to leaning tower of pisa Leaning Tower of Pisa](https://i0.wp.com/cruiselifestyle.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/P1000260-edited.jpg?resize=1440%2C1920&ssl=1)
Tickets to Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa
If you choose to climb the Tower, it is advisable to book them in advance. You can choose a time slot to visit the Tower, which saves you so much time. We booked our tickets with Weekend in Italy for €22 per person, which also included free entry to the Cathedral at any time.
You must go to the nearby cloakroom to check-in and store any bags you have with you. It is strictly forbidden to carry any bags and/or containers of any kind and shape during the visit and these objects must be left at the cloakroom. Cameras are allowed to be carried.
It’s very important that you are punctual in joining the line directly in front of the Leaning Tower, if you’re late, you’re not guaranteed entry. This all seems very strict but the sheer amount of people visiting the site means that it’s run like a military operation!
![livorno cruise port to leaning tower of pisa Leaning Tower of Pisa](https://i0.wp.com/cruiselifestyle.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/P1000235-1-edited.jpg?resize=1440%2C1920&ssl=1)
Climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa
There are 251 steps leading to the top of the Tower, my legs got a little tired towards the top but don’t let that put you off. There are plenty of passing places so you can have a rest if you need it.
The experience was very strange whilst climbing the tower, you could actually feel the tilt so although we were climbing up the stairs it would feel harder on one side and easier on the other. It was very weird!
![livorno cruise port to leaning tower of pisa Leaning Tower of Pisa](https://i0.wp.com/cruiselifestyle.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/IMG_2182.jpg?resize=1440%2C1080&ssl=1)
The complete visit of the Leaning Tower of Pisa takes around 35 minutes, including ascending and descending the staircase. This gives you plenty of time to admire the views from the top of the bell tower.
![livorno cruise port to leaning tower of pisa Leaning Tower of Pisa](https://i0.wp.com/cruiselifestyle.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/IMG_2180-edited.jpg?resize=1440%2C1920&ssl=1)
What is at the Top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
At the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a viewing platform, which offers 360-degree views. It’s here where the bells are housed too.
![livorno cruise port to leaning tower of pisa Leaning Tower of Pisa](https://i0.wp.com/cruiselifestyle.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/P1000244-edited.jpg?resize=1440%2C1920&ssl=1)
Key Information for Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Book your tickets in advance to avoid the queues
- Give yourself enough time to store any bags in the cloakroom before joining the queue to enter the Tower
- The line for the toilets can be huge so pop into one of the local bars or cafes to use theirs, you may need to pay €1 to get a code to unlock the door
- Pick up some cheap souvenirs in the market close by, you can haggle the prices here!
Opening times vary throughout the year:
- January, February and March: from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
- From April to September: from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm
- October and from December 25 to January 6: from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
- November and December: from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm
- From June 17 to August 31: special night opening of the Tower until 10:00 pm.
- June 16: closing at 4:30 pm.
Final Thoughts on Pisa
I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Pisa and I would highly recommend climbing to the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The views are breathtaking and the experience of climbing the Tower and feeling its lean is strange but enjoyable!
Planning independent shore excursions are certainly doable as long as you do your research and give yourself plenty of time to get back to the ship. You can save money and get to see and do exactly what you want to do, rather than having to stay with a group.
Here are more ideas about how to visit Mediterranean cruise destinations independently .
![livorno cruise port to leaning tower of pisa A guide to visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa on your own on a cruise from Livorno including getting there, tickets and top tips](https://i0.wp.com/cruiselifestyle.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/How-to-visit-Leaning-Tower-of-Pisa.png?resize=1000%2C1500&ssl=1)
Laura is a UK cruise blogger based in Cornwall, UK. She founded Cruise Lifestyle in 2016 to share useful advice about cruising, destinations and food. Last port visited: Bridgetown, Barbados Next port of call: unknown, but she can’t wait for cruising to resume safely!
Find me on: Twitter
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Despite living in Italy for half the year, I’ve still not made it to Pisa! I also never knew it was easy to get to from Livorno until reading your post. The views from the top of the tower are incredible, even if it takes 251 steps! Good tip on paying in advance for your ticket too.
It’s definitely worth going inside the tower!
I have been to Italy several times so far, but I have not been to Pisa yet. Although it is on my list, I would love to take pictures of this famous tower. I like the idea of taking a cruise. It is a different perspective to travel this way. So, I enjoy your detailed info about the cruise. It helps prepare for the trip.
Thanks Agnes!
Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa on a cruise trip is a great idea. I love the Leaning Tower of Pisa because of its unique structure and perfect architecture work. I am surely going to see the 360 degree view from the top. Of course, I will book the ticket in advance, thanks for your tips.
Have never been on Cruise trips. Had no idea that visit to attraction are not included in the package. We visited Florence last year but it was raining non-stop so had to skip Pisa. Hopefully we will get to visit this year. 🙂 Thanks for sharing some amazing tips and I guess not many go to the top and take pictures, nice perspective.
Both Florence and Pisa are in my go to places although have been to Italy and covered part of it.Thanks for the guide. Would use it to plan.
Great post!! I have seen the leaning tower way back when I was a young kid but to be honest I don’t think I would choose to see it again, it was just way more touristy for me even back then. I wasn’t aware of a cruise trip, which actually sounds great and fun.
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There are 5 ways to get from Port of Livorno to Leaning Tower of Pisa by bus, train, taxi, or car. Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio's travel planner.
Essential guide for cruise passengers to the port of Livorno to travel to Pisa on your own by shuttle, bus, rail or taxi and how to get to top things to do and see.
There are 6 ways to get from Livorno to Leaning Tower of Pisa by train, bus, taxi, car, or rideshare. Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio's travel planner.
1. Must-See Pisa: Of Course, the Leaning Tower! Climbing the Leaning Tower. Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) 2. Discovering Pisa's Hidden Gems. Stroll along the Arno River. Explore the Borgo Stretto. Experience Pisa's University Charm. 3. Experience Tuscan Flavours in Pisa.
If your cruise ship visits Livorno in Italy, the two most popular sightseeing choices are Florence and Pisa. In this post I share the best way to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa independently, without needing to overspend on a cruise line shore excursion.
The cheapest way to get from Leaning Tower of Pisa to Port of Livorno costs only $5, and the quickest way takes just 22 mins. Find the travel option that best suits you.