Florence to Pisa Round Trip
 

I can't imagine going to Italy and not taking that silly picture with the Leaning Tower of Pisa, you know the one where it appears I am holding it up? Anyway, I need opinions. I am on a tour that will be based in Florence. I have a free Saturday afternoon. How long will it take to get there, I assume on a train, and will I be able to get back to my bed for a full night sleep? Oh yeah, any restaurant recommendations around the Tower?

Yes, you can take the train. It's about an hour one way (8-10€). To climb, reservations are necessary because only a limited amount of people up at a time.

No reservation require to take the silly picture - have fun.

There are a limited # of trains that stop right near the Tower, with more stopping just at the main Pisa station. From the main train station you can walk (~20min), taxi, or city bus to the tower.

Awesome thanks, I didn't think about climbing it, but now I am! Unless it will tip over lol!

And as far as restaurants are concerned, the further away from the tower, the better.
I liked Antica Trattoria Il Campano near the river, but when I was in Pisa in March it did not seem to be open - the website is still working.

»trains that stop right near the Tower«
That the Pisa S. Rossore station. Here www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en you'll find the train schedule. Take care to fill out the Italian original for Florence: Firenze.