Where to go shopping in Pisa

Pisa, in northern Italy, is one of the most famous cities in the world thanks to its iconic Leaning Tower. In fact, the whole city is a Renaissance jewel, from the Piazza dei Miracoli, which is home to the tower, the Cathedral, and other famous buildings, to the Piazza dei Cavalieri in the heart of the city. Plus, Pisa is well-connected to other cities throughout Italy and the rest of the world, with easy access from Florence Train Station and Pisa Airport bringing people to the city from around the world.

Pisa is a small city, and you can see a lot of what it has to offer in a couple of days. That can make it a great access point to visit the Tuscan countryside, but it does mean you won't get the shopping opportunities that you would in, for instance, Milan.

That doesn't mean there isn't some great shopping here. Pisa's popularity with international tourists means you can certainly find plenty of international fashion brands represented here. Also, Pisa and Tuscany in general have long been famous for the quality of their leather goods, and those make a great souvenir for anyone passing through.

To make your shopping excursion easier, don't forget that Bounce partners with local businesses to provide bag storage locations throughout the city and beyond. You can spend your day shopping at the fashion boutiques or the famous antiques market, then leave purchases of any size behind while you head out for a night on the town or journey to the railway station to travel on to Florence or elsewhere in Tuscany.

All you need to know when shopping in Pisa

Shopping in Pisa is a more relaxed experience than the bloodsport it can sometimes be in Milan. Yet shopping in Pisa can be a great way to enjoy the city, combining the rich history with contemporary charm. Here are some tips to enhance your shopping adventure:

Shopping architecture

Pisa’s shopping districts are primarily located in the city center, with charming pedestrian streets like Borgo Stretto and Corso Italia offering a mix of boutiques, local shops, and international brands. Open-air markets also dot the city, showcasing regional products and handmade crafts. While the main shopping streets like Borgo Stretto offer an upscale experience complete with restaurants and cafés where you can take a break, the open-air markets offer a more authentic and traditional experience of Pisan life. For the best experience, you can combine both shopping experiences and get your high-fashion from brand-name boutiques while shopping for more unique and local souvenirs at the markets.

Opening hours and seasonality

Most shops in Pisa are open between 9:30 AM and 1 PM, then close for a siesta before reopening from 4 PM to 8 PM. Sundays and holidays may see limited hours, especially for smaller stores. Seasonal markets, particularly during the Christmas season, provide extended hours and can be a fun way to do some shopping during the season.

Pricing and bargaining

While prices in boutiques and malls are fixed, bargaining is common in markets. For that reason, it can be helpful to learn at least basic numbers in Italian before you visit, as you're more likely to get a favorable deal if you can communicate clearly. Keep cash handy for local markets and smaller shops, as not all accept cards. Look for seasonal sales in January and July to snag great deals.

Shop like a local

Bring a reusable tote to carry your finds sustainably, and don’t hesitate to ask for VAT refunds if you’re an international visitor - at least at the more high-end shops. Obviously, the local market traders aren't going to fill out a VAT receipt for you. Pisa’s compact city center makes walking between shopping spots easy and enjoyable.

Coolest shopping in Pisa

Pisa’s rich artisan traditions and contemporary flair come alive in its unique shopping destinations. Here are some standout spots:

Valenti

Valenti is a prestigious boutique known for its elegant collection of clothing for both men and women. They have multiple stores close together close to the River Arno, with one store for men's clothes and another for women. Valenti’s curated selection embodies Italian sophistication.

Address: Borgo Stretto 34

Enoteca Bacchus

Like any self-respecting Italian town, Pisa is not exactly short of places to buy wine. Still, this one is a cut above. Wine lovers simply must visit Enoteca Bacchus, a charming wine shop offering a curated selection of Tuscan wines and spirits. The knowledgeable staff can guide you to the perfect bottle to take home. Also, there are often tasting events and other experiences that can guide you through the rich and delicious world of Tuscan wine.

Address: 56125, Via Pietro Mascagni

Sanantonio42

What looks from the outside like an old-fashioned record store is actually much more than that. This trendy concept store blends fashion, art, music, and design. Sanantonio42 features contemporary clothing, unique accessories, and pieces from emerging Italian designers well-known on the skateboarding scene, making it a favorite among street style enthusiasts. This is a great place to put your finger on the pulse of Pisa's countercultural scene and experience something a little different from the usual luxury boutiques.

Address: Via S. Paolo, 1

Sergio Capone

Of course, it's luxury you're after, you'll find that here too. For handcrafted jewelry with a Tuscan flair, Sergio Capone’s boutique is a must-visit. Each piece reflects artistry and tradition, offering visitors a chance to own a unique keepsake from Pisa. This is the only authorized Rolex dealer in Pisa, so if you feel like splashing out, this is a great place to pick up and unforgettable souvenir you will treasure forever.

Address: Corso Italia 14

Libreria Ghibellina

A haven for book lovers, this independent bookstore features a curated selection of Italian literature, rare finds, and art books. It’s a wonderful spot to pick up a thoughtful souvenir.

Address: Borgo Stretto, 37

Alternatives to clothes shopping in Pisa

From culinary delights to artistic treasures, Pisa’s shopping scene extends well beyond fashion. In fact, in many ways, if you really want to sample what the city is all about, it's a good idea to visit the markets and some of the more unusual stores in search of something unique. Remember that Bounce makes it easy to leave your shopping behind, so you can spend the day hunting for bargains and then go out for a great meal at night while we take care of your belongings. That lets you explore these specialty shops and markets:

Piazza delle Vettovaglie Market

One of Pisa’s oldest markets, Piazza delle Vettovaglie is a bustling spot for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and local wines. It’s a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking to bring home the flavors of Tuscany. It's also a great place to take in a lively atmosphere and shop with locals, giving you a glimpse of your life in the city.

Ceramiche Artistiche

It's a little way out of town, but it's well worth a visit to this beautiful ceramic studio to pick up some unique items. Pisa has a long history of crafting beautiful hand-painted Tuscan ceramics, and the selection and quality at this location make it worth the journey out of town to see what they have to offer.

Address: Via F. Magellano, 32, 56010 Vicopisano

Traditional shopping options in Pisa

For a more conventional shopping experience, Pisa has several options to explore:

Corso Italia

This lively street is Pisa’s main shopping thoroughfare, lined with high-street brands, local boutiques, and charming cafés. By day, it's a haven for shopping, and at night, it's the perfect place for an evening drink or a leisurely meal.

Borgo Stretto

Known for its historic charm, Borgo Stretto combines beautiful architecture with an array of boutique shops and upscale brands. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Even if your budget doesn't stretch to buying anything here, you can enjoy window shopping and checking out some of the exquisite articles on display.

Shopping in Pisa is as enchanting as the city itself. While the city may be smaller than nearby locations like Florence and Milan, it offers a good range of shopping experiences, from high-end fashion boutiques to quaint and charming markets where you can haggle for a bargain and shop the way the locals do.

Trust Bounce to take care of your shopping and other bags while you explore. With our flat daily rate, you don't have to worry about hourly charges adding up, and you can store any size of bags for as long as you want in total security. Let us worry about bag storage while you concentrate on finding bargains and visiting sites like the Tower, Marina di Pisa, and the nightlife of Corso Italia!