Life at Villa Gioli: A day-trip to Pisa
The drive from Villa Gioli‘s tranquil grounds to Pisa’s historic center takes just thirty minutes. Spend a day between Renaissance masterpieces and hidden local spots.
Morning at Piazza dei Miracoli
Best visit Piazza dei Miracoli in the morning (8:30am) to beat the crowds. You’ll be rewarded for the early start as the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, and Baptistry look particularly grand in the morning light.
Tower tickets need to be booked ahead for a specific time slot. For those who cannot get enough, there is the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo which houses original sculptures and artifacts from the cathedral complex. Allow 30-45 minutes.
Local Lunch
For lunch, we love directing our guests to Osteria La Grotta. Despite being walking distance from Piazza dei Miracoli, it feels like a secret known only to Pisans. Remember to reserve ahead – the locals pack this place for good reason!
Afternoon at the museum
Cross the river to visit Palazzo Blu, a 14th-century palace housing rotating art exhibitions. Its powder-blue façade reflected in the Arno River is a loved photo opportunity. I recently visited a beautifully curated Hosukai exhibit that showcased the extensive collections of the oriental museums of Genova and Venice.
The museum lies a few steps from Corso Italia, Pisa’s main shopping street.
A Pasta Detour
On your way back to Villa Gioli, stop in the medieval village of Lari at Pastificio Martelli, where the same family has been making pasta since 1926. Pick up their signature yellow-packaged spaghetti, and dinner at the villa is sorted.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
- Villa Gioli
- Day-tour Map
- Piazza dei Miracoli / Leaning Tower: Reservation and Tickets
- Restaurant reservation: Osteria La Grotta
- Museum Palazzo Blu
- Visit to the Martelli Pasta Manufactory
