Borgo Stretto - for a taste of Pisan life

Pisa is not picturesque, and, beyond the `Field of miracles’, rarely tugs the heartstrings. But there is a warmer side to the city in backstreet Pisa. The Borgo Stretto district is a lively warren of alleyways and shopping streets between Piazza dei Cavallieri and the Arno riverbanks. Lined with cafes and shops, the arcaded Borgo Stretto opens out at Piazza Garibaldi and the Ponte di Mezzo bridge. It’s a perfect place for a wander in search of an ice cream, an afternoon coffee and cake, or a reasonably-priced meal. Call into the Pasticceria Federico Salza (Borgo Stretto 46), an old-fashioned bar and pastry shop, set under the porticoes. It makes a tempting place for an afternoon coffee and cake or evening cocktails. At turns, this pedestrianised street is shabby or chic, with a bohemian feel. Off its southern end, the arcaded Piazza delle Vettovaglie market area is the haunt of Pisa University students who are drawn to the reasonably priced bars. Just beyond, the Arno river is being touted as the Pisan `Left Bank’. Centred on the prestigious university, a large student presence brings energy to the area, as does the presence of Pisan cyclists.

Address: Borgo Stretto, Pisa