Ah, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, always the feature image when showcasing this remarkable Italian city (and we couldn’t help ourselves either). However, as well as the iconic landmark, there is so much more worthy of your exploration amongst the streets of this gem of Tuscany.
Stroll along the banks of the river Arno, home to a host of grand houses to admire, take in a bit of history and culture in the many museums, cathedrals, and churches, or pick up some souvenirs in the Corso Italia, the renowned shopping district. And of course, what’s a trip to Pisa without treating yourself to the best pasta, pizza, and wine there is.
However, with so much to spend your hard-earned cash on, you’re probably going to need to save in other areas. So, if you want to indulge, you might need to give up your 5-star resort ideas and opt for something a bit more budget-friendly. Of course, you don’t want to be struggling to get a good night’s sleep either. But luckily, we’ve compiled a list of where to stay in Pisa on a budget, which will still offer plenty of quality.
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Safestay Pisa Hostel
If you’re a bit of a social butterfly, this one is most definitely for you. Having a wide range of spaces to meet fellow travelers, from the common areas (inside and out) to the variety of dormitory options, you can be chatting about your Pisa plans in no time.
However, although this is a rather social hostel, there are still options for those that like a bit of privacy, with family rooms and twin rooms available. But, of course, a good base needs a good location. Well, luckily at Safestay, you have just that. Located just a five-minute walk from the train station, it’s perfect if you’re arriving late or perhaps catching that first train in the morning.
You are also within walking distance of all the main attractions of Pisa. So, whether you want to tick off the most famous first, or venture around to see what other lesser-known gems you can come across, this hostel is the perfect starting point. And once you’ve explored until your heart’s content, why not take advantage of the hostel restaurant, where you can enjoy some homemade wine and pizza for a lot less than you’d fork out at the central Pisa dining options.
A night here can cost you as little as £16 ($21).
Address: Via Filippo Corridoni 29, 56125 Pisa, Italy
Best for: Backpackers and sightseers
Rating: 8.4/10
B&B Toscana
If you’re after something a little quieter than the hostel environment, B&B Toscana can provide. Featuring a selection of triple, double and family rooms, a garden and courtyard area, as well as a restaurant, it’s the ideal space to unwind. Fuel yourself with their buffet breakfast, consisting of a rich variety of breakfast staples, ranging from your classic eggs and bacon to some lighter options of fresh apple cake yogurt and fruit.
And once you’ve had your fill and are ready to explore, they even offer you bikes to borrow, where you can ride riverside or perhaps cycle into town and venture through the heart of Pisa. Or maybe you might want to cycle straight to the Piazza del Duomo, the famous square which houses four of the most medieval masterpieces the city has on offer, including…you know what.
Starting from £51($70) per night, the prices here are pretty reasonable for what’s on offer.
Address: Lungarno Guadalongo 5, Pisa, 56121 Province of Pisa, Italy
Best for: Couples and sightseers
Rating: 9.0/10
Affittacamere Delfo
With bright modern rooms and even a bottle of wine offered on arrival, this is definitely a slice of budget luxury. The Affittacamere Delfo is located just outside Pisa’s historic center and houses a selection of private rooms and a shared kitchen, where you are free to cook up your own selection of tasty delicacies. You can also make use of the room’s coffee and tea stations to get that caffeine hit before venturing out.
And if you want a little advice on what to see and do around the area, the staff here are always on hand to help you out. With only a ten-minute walk to central Pisa, you have all the city’s main sights practically on your doorstep. So, whether you choose to visit the stunning 11th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, where your jaw will be on the floor as you admire the gold paneled ceilings, or hit up the National Museum of Pisa, where you can see plenty of artifacts and sculptures, dating back to the 12th century, you never have far to go.
Not to mention the abundance of restaurants and cafes for those nights you just don’t feel like cooking. We recommend Trattoria S. Omobono, nearby the river, or Pizzeria il Montino, where you can try some cecina (chickpea flatbread, which is authentic Pisa street food).
Rooms at this guesthouse start from around £66 ($90) for two people.
Address: Via Montello 16, 56127 Pisa, Italy
Best for: Couples and sightseers
Rating: 9.2/10
Pisa Train Station Hostel
The Pisa Train Station Hostel is another great choice for the more social traveler. Located just a couple of minutes from the train station (the name gives that one away), this is a hostel with plenty of charm.
With a mix of dorm rooms, a shared tv room, and a kitchen, you will find many opportunities to mingle with fellow travelers and perhaps pick up a sightseeing companion while you’re at it. Staying here, you are in close proximity to the Botanical Gardens, Tuttomondo Mural (a colorful piece of wall art created by American artist, Keith Haring), and the popular boutique streets of Borgo Stretto and Corso Italia. Plus, a McDonald’s, to really keep that budget on track. You are also just an eight-minute drive from the historic center. Then, back at the hostel, why not make use of their complimentary tea while you browse online with the free Wi-Fi.
With dorms for £22 ($30) per night, this is definitely one of the cheaper options available.
Address: Via Mascagni n.12, 56125 Pisa, Italy
Best for: Backpackers and sightseers
Rating: 8.3/10
Home Sweet Home B&B
If you’re looking for a little slice of authentic comfort, Home Sweet Home B&B has you covered. As the name suggests, it truly is a home away from home. This B&B offers cozy double or triple rooms (all equipped with a coffee machine and flat screen TV), an Italian breakfast, where you can stock up on some tasty pastries, and an airport shuttle bus for an additional charge. It is also pet-friendly for those that just can’t bear to part with their animal buddies when they go on vacation.
It is conveniently located just a ten-minute walk from all the top Pisa sights and a 12-minute drive from Pisa Central Station, where you can take an hour’s train ride to Tuscany’s beautiful capital, Florence, if you’re looking to go further afield. Back at the B&B you can unwind in the picturesque garden area, the perfect spot for a little reflection on the day gone by and a chance to scroll through the, undoubtedly, many pictures taken.
Prices here are in the range of £30-50 ($41 – 68)
Address: Via Martiri delle Ardeatine 18, 56123 Pisa, Italy
Best for: Sightseers, couples, and backpackers
Rating: 7.9/10
Casa Giulia In
Although sitting at the more basic end of accommodation, the Casa Giulia In has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Situated just 200 yards from the airport, this is ideal for anyone coming in from a late flight or perhaps needing to catch an early one. Each room is equipped with a city view so you can get a feel for the place before starting your exploration and some rooms have balconies, perfect for breathing in that fresh Pisa morning air.
If you fancy getting breakfast nearby, the Vanilla Pasticceria Caffé is a perfect option, with their freshly baked pastries and delicious cappuccinos for under €2. Then, once you’re ready to start the day, you are just a 20-minute walk away from all that Pisa has to offer.
And if a bit of Pisa nightlife is what you’re after, you’ll also find that here. Although not particularly known for a buzzing after-dark scene, it is a university city, so you will certainly find a few good places to let your hair down. One of the main hotspots is Lungarno, where you will find a good variety of bars and clubs. Also home to Chupiteria, a bar dedicated to shot drinks (with over 250 kinds on offer) …if you’re looking for a really wild night.
Prices at Casa Giulia In are around £50 ($68) a night.
Address: Via dell’Aeroporto 67, 56121 Pisa, Italy
Best for: Backpackers, sightseers, and couples
Rating: 8.6/10
Gialel Pisa Guest House
Last but not least on our where to stay in Pisa on a budget list, we have the Gialel Pisa Guest House. Located in the heart of Pisa central, you are just minutes away from the famous tower and all the action of the city. But if you find yourself having exhausted all that Pisa has to offer and fancy a day trip, you are within a 40-minute drive of Tuscany’s other charming city, Lucca. With its striking Renaissance walls and quaint cobbled streets, you can certainly spend a good few hours soaking up the culture there.
This guesthouse is the perfect base for all that exploring. Boasting bright spacious rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a couple of the most welcoming hosts you could hope for, you’ll certainly get a good night’s rest here.
And with the I Santi restaurant and Dolce Pisa café practically on your doorstep, you don’t have to venture far if you’re looking for a quick and easy breakfast or dinner option.
A single room here will cost just under £50 ($68), so, although not the cheapest, still great value for money, considering you’re a short stroll from one of Europe’s most iconic attractions.
Address: Via Luigi Galvani 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy
Best for: Couples and solo travelers
Rating: 9.2/10