Pisa isn’t just about the famous Leaning Tower. Its narrow streets, historic buildings, and scenic countryside offer plenty for a quick visit — especially if you opt for a 1-hour tour. We particularly appreciate experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots. For example, the Pisa: Beyond the Tower tour offers a fresh perspective by taking you in an electric vehicle to sights most visitors never see, all in just an hour. It’s a fantastic way to get to know the city’s lesser-known gems without breaking a sweat or spending hours on foot. Check out this tour for a hands-on look at Pisa’s hidden corners.
If you’re craving something more unique, imagine riding a horse at sunset through Tuscany’s stunning landscapes or exploring medieval villages just outside Pisa. These experiences combine the charm of the region with quick, memorable moments you can enjoy even if time’s limited. Below, we’ve compiled the top three 1-hour tours, comparing what makes each special and helping you decide which suits your style.
1. Pisa: Beyond the Tower (1h round-trip tour)
At number one, the Pisa: Beyond the Tower tour stands out for its smart mix of relaxation and discovery. For just around $29, you’ll hop into an electric vehicle that whisks you around the city’s lesser-known sites in about an hour. The tour includes 11 stops, each with a brief but insightful visit. You’ll see places like the Domus Galilaeana, Tuscany’s first public observatory, and Palazzo Blu, an art museum with a distinctive blue façade.
What makes this tour truly special is the curated route that avoids the crowds at the Leaning Tower, instead focusing on areas like Ponte di Mezzo, the historic bridge over the Arno river, and Palazzo Vecchio de’ Medici, a notable Medici residence. The tour is suitable for all ages, making it perfect for families or travelers who prefer a comfortable ride to cover more ground. The reviews are glowing — many mention the knowledgeable guide and the chance to learn about Pisa’s characters and stories beyond the typical tourist trail.
Bottom line: If you want a quick, engaging overview of Pisa’s hidden corners with minimal walking, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to see the city from a new angle.
2. Horseback riding at sunset 1 hour at the Certosa di Pisa
Number two on our list is a different kind of quick adventure: horseback riding at sunset at the Certosa di Pisa. For about $35, you’ll enjoy a one-hour ride suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. The experience begins with a brief training session, ensuring everyone can manage the horse comfortably before heading out. A guide will accompany you on foot or horseback, depending on your experience level, making sure you’re safe and confident.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of equestrian fun and stunning scenery. Riding through fields and nearby woods at sunset offers a peaceful, almost meditative view of Tuscany’s countryside. Many reviews highlight how well the horses are cared for and how the guide helps beginners feel relaxed. The ride is perfect for those wanting a brief but memorable connection with horses and nature.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for horse lovers or anyone wanting a quiet, scenic experience away from the city hustle. It’s affordable and gives you a taste of Tuscany’s rural beauty in just an hour.
3. 1 hour horseback ride in Valgraziosa Pisa
Last up is the 1-hour horseback ride in Valgraziosa, which offers a more panoramic experience. Located just a few kilometers from Pisa, this trip takes you through lush landscapes, olive groves, and medieval villages. It’s designed for beginners and those who don’t ride often, with a short training session beforehand to teach basic horse management. The guide then leads you on a scenic trail that showcases the region’s natural beauty.
What makes this tour memorable is its setting. Many reviews mention the “gorgeous countryside” and the friendly hosts who go out of their way to make everyone comfortable. Tourists love that the horses are well cared for and that the pace is relaxed. The ride appeals to families or couples seeking a quick escape into the Tuscan landscape, with some reviews noting that the experience is “absolutely unforgettable” and “a perfect mix of fun and scenery.”
Bottom line: If you want a picturesque horseback experience that combines moderate activity with peaceful views, this ride in Valgraziosa is a wonderful choice for a one-hour adventure.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, think about what kind of experience you prefer. If your goal is to see less-visited areas of Pisa and learn some local stories, the Pisa: Beyond the Tower tour is ideal. For a peaceful, scenic ride through Tuscany’s countryside, consider the horseback riding at sunset or the Valgraziosa ride, both offering a quick but memorable connection with nature and horses.
Budget-wise, all options are quite reasonable, with the urban tour at $29 and the horseback rides around $34.57. Consider your fitness level and interests — if you’re not comfortable on horseback, the electric vehicle tour provides a relaxing way to see Pisa’s hidden sides. For those seeking a special moment at sunset or in the countryside, the horseback options are perfect.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot. Check each experience for specific details like meeting points and age restrictions to plan accordingly.
In summary, Pisa offers much more than its famous tower: engaging quick tours that reveal its secret corners and scenic landscapes. Whether you prefer a comfortable ride through historic streets or a scenic horse ride through Tuscan fields, each of these 1-hour experiences delivers a memorable slice of Pisa. For most travelers, the Pisa: Beyond the Tower tour provides an excellent introduction, while the horseback rides add a touch of adventure. Whichever you choose, early booking helps ensure you won’t miss out on these brief but enriching journeys.