Luminara di San Ranieri is an annual festival held in Pisa, Italy in honor of San Ranieri, the patron saint of the city. The event is famous for its breathtaking display of lights, where more than 70,000 candles illuminate the buildings along the Arno River and the Piazza dei Miracoli, including the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. The festival also includes a grand procession with participants dressed in historical costumes, as well as fireworks in the evening. The Luminara di San Ranieri is a spectacular celebration of the city’s history, faith, and traditions, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Start with a quick trip form. Weekend in Pisa or a Tuscany route—we’ll plan Arno riverfront illuminations, quiet vantage times & spots, smooth bridges & flow routing, and a walkable stay steps from the Arno.
Prefer to talk it through? Book a free intro call.
DATES & TIMES
• Luminara night: Tuesday, 16 June 2026 (annual celebration on 16 June).
• Candles at dusk: The city lights are dimmed and thousands of wax candles illuminate the Lungarni until late evening (typical window ~19:00–23:45). Event overview.
• Fireworks: Traditionally at 23:00 for ~25 minutes, launched from floating platforms on the Arno between Ponte della Fortezza and Ponte Solferino (exact 2026 timing announced closer to the date). City info.
LOCATION
• Where: The Lungarni (riversides of the Arno) in the historic centre of Pisa.
• Open in Google Maps (Ponte di Mezzo) — a central vantage point on the river.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Free public event (no tickets required). Some private terraces/restaurants may offer paid viewpoints by reservation. Official notice.
GOOD TO KNOW
• What to expect: Around 70,000–100,000 candles outline palaces, churches and bridges; reflections on the Arno amplify the effect. Learn more · See details.
• Arrive early: Riverbanks get very crowded; streetside lighting is switched off at dusk to highlight the candles. Background & timing.
• Safety & closures: The city publishes road closures, access rules and safety guidance each year — check updates before you go. Read safety info.
• Related event: The Regatta of San Ranieri takes place the next day, 17 June. Regatta details.
Tell us your dates, who’s coming, and what else you’d like to see. We’ll suggest a Tuscany route that includes the Luminara di San Ranieri at the right moment, with realistic travel days and comfortable home bases.
Prefer to start with a call? Book a free intro call.