tourist information centre pisa

• Pisa Tourist Information Offices

The entire Province of Pisa , the city of Pisa proper included, makes available about 20 tourist information offices , more precisely, three in the Monti Pisani area, four in the Valdarno area, six in the Valdera and Colline Pisane area and two in the Val di Cecina area, the rest being located in the city of Pisa as such. Speaking about the city, though its lay-out is quite simple and even newcomers can get around without too many difficulties, the city is fitted with several tourist information offices meant to ease even more visitors’ stay in this Tuscan city, enabling their enjoyment from the very beginning. Thus, the main tourist information office is located in Piazza dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles), whereas others are located at the Galileo Galilei Airport and in the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele. Getting into details, the data on these offices is as follows:

Field of Miracles Tourist Information

The tourist information office located in the Field of Miracles (also referred to as the tourist information office in the Leaning Tower area) is deemed the main establishment of this kind given its geographical position in the respective area which is rightfully considered the main tourist hotspot in Pisa, considering the amount of landmarks it hosts.

Besides Italian, spoken languages refer to English, German, French and Spanish.

Pisa Airport Tourist Information

The Airport too is fitted with a tourist information office, which is a suitable state of affairs, given the airport is, by far, the main entrance gate in Pisa.

Train Station Tourist Information Office

Another useful tourist information office is located in the central train station area, and despite the fact its opening hours are less extensive than the ones of its counterparts, it is still a useful establishment visitors can rely on.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am to 7.00pm; Saturday 9.00am to 1.30pm; closed on Sundays and public holidays

Though often overlooked, the tourist information office in the Ponte di Mezzo area can also be resorted to by visitors in search of useful data in view of delineating their stay in Pisa.

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The rich city of “Miracles” with the leaning tower, Pisa retains the charm of its ancient Maritime Republic past

Pisa is a wonderful tourist destination in the centre of Tuscany, an open-air museum but also a lively city, full of events and teeming with young people attending the university Normale di Pisa. With its rich cuisine and many historical monuments, it is a city to be rediscovered using all the senses.

What to see in Pisa and surroundings

• City and surrounding

Pisa and Piazza dei Miracoli, jewels of extraordinary beauty

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Lucca and the embrace of its mighty walls

Siena and the low-key charm of the historic centre

Lucca Summer Festival

Palio di Siena

Arezzo Antiques Fair

The charm of the ancient Maritime Republic with the leaning tower

Ancient and modern at the same time, proud of a powerful past as a Maritime Republic and home to one of Italy's most famous universities, Pisa is much more than the marvellous Leaning Tower that dominates Piazza dei Miracoli. Rising on the banks of the Arno river, it is one of the most important Tuscan cities and certainly the most surprising.

For over a millennium, Florence has been a global icon of beauty. Even its lesser-known neighbourhoods are a delight. The cradle of the Renaissance and the world capital of art in the 15th century, it boasts one of the oldest historic centres and some of the most famous museums in the world, as well as one of the most iconic and distinctive landscapes as far as the eye can see. Everything in Florence is spectacular: from the shops to the streets that lead to the hills overlooking the most touristy areas, from the most authentic and popular neighbourhoods, just outside the historic centre, to the monuments that exhibit its soul.

Provincia di Massa e Carrara

Tuscan villages, among quarries and the Apennines The province of Massa-Carrara is waiting to be discovered. Nestled between the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, the Apuan Alps and the Ligurian Sea, it offers nature, history, art, and fine food and wine. Don’t miss Carrara, the world capital of marble. You can enter the living heart of the mountain and touch the raw material worked by masters like Michelangelo and Canova. Continuing along the Apuan Riviera, you can enjoy the unique spectacle of the sea just a stone’s throw from the mountains. We recommend visiting the centre of Marina di Massa, bursting with Art Nouveau villas. North of the province lies Lunigiana, an ancient land, rich in history and traditions. The hilly landscape is dotted with castles and picturesque villages. A typical product of the area is Lardo di Colonnata PGI, a cured lard you can taste while strolling through the centre of towns like Pontremoli. Ufficio Informazioni e Accoglienza Turistica Via Porta Fabbrica, 1 – 54100 – Massa (MS) tel. +39 0585 490561

A land for all tastes The province of Pistoia is diversity and beauty. From the plains to the famous spas, to the mountains with its renowned ski slopes of Abetone and Val di Luce. A landscape that is always different and always rich, between historical and medieval villages and places of interest. The beating heart of Tuscany, the area is also known for the cultivation of plants and flowers popular throughout the world, thanks to the long nursery tradition carried on from generation to generation. Another feather in the cap of this area are the most renowned handmade chocolate companies in Italy and beyond. Of ancient foundation, Pistoia is a city that knows how to amaze lovers of history, art and traditions. Dubbed the “enchanted stone city”, it offers routes dotted with churches, cloisters, palaces, museums and monuments leading to the Piazza del Duomo. An obligatory stop at the Cathedral of San Zeno and, for a truly evocative experience, Pistoia Sotterranea. The thermal baths of Montecatini and Monsummano are popular destinations for medical tourism and boast waters with beneficial effects. Sports lovers will be spoilt for choice among skiing facilities, hiking trails and adrenaline attractions such as the Suspension Bridge of San Marcello Pistoiese, about 227 metres and at a height of 36 metres over a riverbed. What’s certain is that, sitting at a table in these parts, among oil, cold cuts, cheese and wine, you will never leave the table with an empty stomach.

Prato is a lively city, which has been able to integrate elements of its ancient origins from the Etruscans, through to the Middle Ages into its contemporary age. It is a melting pot of cultures, in recent years it has increased its population by opening up to different ethnic groups that coexist in full integration. Famous throughout the world for its textile production, active since medieval times, Prato plays a very important role in the world of fashion. Its center is rich in history, you can visit the Emperor's Castle, built by order of Frederick II of Swabia, the only example of Frederick architecture in central-northern Italy. Piazza Duomo houses the Cathedral of Santo Stefano where the Donatello and Michelozzo Pulpit stands out at the right end of the facade. Inside there are splendid frescoes by Filippo Lippi. Other works by these extraordinary artists are kept in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo. Wandering through the center you can visit Palazzo Datini and Palazzo Pretorio, the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Carceri by Giuliano da Sangallo, the churches of San Francesco, San Domenico, Sant'Agostino and the Spirito Santo. Samples dating back from the 5th century to the present day are preserved in the Textile Museum. The building that houses it, is a monument of industrial archeology, the only 19th century production complex still existing within the medieval walls . The surrounding area is populated by historic villages erected on settlements from the Roman era. It is an area of ​​ancient culture and traditions, a varied world to discover.

The rich city of “Miracles” with the leaning tower, Pisa retains the charm of its ancient Maritime Republic past. Pisa is a wonderful tourist destination in the centre of Tuscany, an open-air museum but also a lively city, full of events and teeming with young people attending the university Normale di Pisa. With its rich cuisine and many historical monuments, it is a city to be rediscovered using all the senses.

Ancient cradle of treasures and great artists Arezzo stands on a hilltop in southeastern Tuscany, overlooking four valleys: Valtiberina, Casentino, Valdarno and Valdichiana. The city dates back to the time of the founding of Alexandria in Egypt, as evidenced by the discovery of stone tools and the so-called “Man of the Elm” from the Palaeolithic period. Under the Romans, thanks to its position along Via Cassia, it became a centre of strategic importance, a hub of flourishing economic activity, the remains of which we can still admire today. When walking around Arezzo, we recommend visiting the Gothic-style Cathedral, with its stunning stained-glass windows by Marcillat and the restored fresco of Mary Magdalene by Piero della Francesca. Also worth visiting are the splendid Pieve di S. Maria Romanesque parish church, Piazza Grande with the Logge Vasari, the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici with its façade by Bernardo Rossellino, the picturesque medieval tower-houses, and the church of S. Domenico with the Crucifix painted by Cimabue. Not forgetting the Palazzo del Comune, Casa Petrarca and Palazzo Pretorio. Many famous people were born in Arezzo, including architect and art historian Giorgio Vasari, poet Francesco Petrarca, music theorist Guido Monaco, and in nearby Caprese, Michelangelo Buonarroti. The centre of Arezzo was badly damaged during World War II, but this made it the perfect set for key scenes in Roberto Benigni’s Oscar-winning film Life Is Beautiful. As you walk through, you can glimpse sets and experience atmospheres straight out of the big screen. If you arrive by car, you can park in one of the car parks outside the walls, which are connected to the historic centre by pedestrian walkways and escalators.

Livorno is one of the most vibrant maritime cities in Tuscany. Originally a village on the edge of the ancient and now deserted Pisan port, the town later came under Visconti and Genoese domination before being acquired by Florence in the 15th century. Livorno underwent major developments when Cosimo I de' Medici decided to make it the main port of the Grand Duchy. The renovation project was entrusted to none other than Buontalenti, to whom we owe the configuration of the historic centre as a fortified city and the construction of the New Fortress, which was built a short distance from the Old Fortress of the Pisan era. Unfortunately, Livorno experienced heavy bombing during World War II, which resulted in very little of the central core being spared. Post-war reconstruction significantly changed the appearance of the old city despite efforts to preserve the aesthetic value of the 18th-century district of Venezia Nuova, which today can be considered the "true" historic centre. The district's name comes from its canals, which connect it to the port and make it resemble a small Venice. The city experienced great artistic and cultural activity between the 19th and 20th centuries, being the birthplace of the likes of Pietro Mascagni, Giovanni Fattori, Amedeo Modigliani and Leonetto Cappiello, to name but a few. Livorno is now a popular tourist destination, mainly due to the many beaches of the Costa degli Etruschi that meander southwards from the city. There are also many city attractions, including the Mascagni Terrace, the seventeenth-century cathedral of St Francis and the baroque church of St Catherine.

Between medieval tradition and natural spas A charming town in the heart of Tuscany, Siena preserves its medieval historical centre intact. In Piazza del Campo, one breathes an atmosphere of times gone by. This is where the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia face, and every year, between 2 July and 16 August, the traditional Palio, an equestrian competition between the city's neighbourhoods, held every year, between 2 July and 16 August. Don't miss the Cathedral dedicated to the Assumption, with its black and white polychrome façade and its floor full of esoteric symbols. Inside you can admire statues by Michelangelo and frescoes by Pinturicchio. The sinuous hills surrounding Siena contain countless natural and architectural treasures, all waiting to be discovered. Starting with San Gimignano, known for its towers soaring into the sky. For a break in traditional food and wine, stop in San Quirico d'Orcia, Montalcino and Montepulciano. Take a moment to relax in the waters of Rapolano Terme, Bagno Vignoni and Bagni di San Filippo. Their natural thermal baths are the ideal destination for those in search of relaxation. Did you know that the legendary sword in the stone really exists and is located right near Siena? You will find it at the Abbey of San Galgano, a basilica without its roof but which preserves its outer walls intact.

The green heart of the Maremma Grosseto is one of the few Tuscan cities with its medieval defensive walls intact. From above, the Medici Walls form an irregular hexagon, with six arrow-shaped corner bastions, running along a 3-kilometre-long perimeter. Don’t miss the Passeggiata Verde (Green Walk), in the shade of the vegetation planted along and on the Walls. Beyond the beautiful historic centre of the capital, the Province of Grosseto is full of surprises. Firstly, it is home to one of Italy’s most beautiful natural parks: the Maremma Regional Park, a habitat for countless species of birds and mammals, bathed by the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea to the east. There are also plenty of places of cultural interest, including the Vie Cave Etrusche: Etruscan-built roadways that wind their way through the rock, which you can visit in the area that covers the municipalities of Sorano, Sovana and Pitigliano. The local cuisine upholds Tuscan tradition, with cured meats, full-bodied red wines and egg pasta. A speciality, typical of the lower Maremma, worth trying is bottarga di Orbetello, produced only in the lagoon area and obtained exclusively by drying the ovarian sacs of the mullet.

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• 1.1 Climate
• 1.2 Tourist information
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.3 By road
• 3.2 By bicycle
• 4.1 Piazza dei Miracoli
• 4.2 Piazza dei Cavalieri
• 4.3 Along the riverbank
• 4.4 Other parts of the city
• 4.5 Further away
• 8.1 Restaurants
• 8.2.1 Around the Leaning Tower
• 8.2.2 North of the bridge Ponte di Mezzo
• 8.2.3 South of the bridge Ponte di Mezzo
• 8.3 Mid-range
• 8.4 Splurge
• 8.5 Ice cream
• 8.6 Pasticceria
• 9.1.1 Coffee
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 11 Stay safe

Pisa is a city in Tuscany , Italy , best known for its world-famous leaning tower. But the tower isn't the only thing to see – there are other architectural and artistic marvels in this beautiful city. The half-hour walk from the Campo dei Miracoli to the train station runs through a pedestrian street with many interesting sights, shops, and restaurants. The best way to visit Pisa is walking the streets, as the city centre is small and cosy, and enjoying the sight and the atmosphere.

Pisa would not be Pisa without the university. The city is animated by the students, who organize parties, shows, and cultural events, and fill the central street of the city at night. The University of Pisa has 60,000 students in a city of 90,000 inhabitants (200,000 in the metropolitan area). You'll notice the student flair in the city once you leave the touristy Campo dei Miracoli.

The climate of Pisa is something in between the one in the north and in the south of Italy.

Winters are mild: not as warm as in Catania nor as cold as in the Po Valley in the north. Temperatures almost never drop below zero. Snow is very rare.

Summers are warm, if hot, and sometimes very humid, although they are nowhere near as intolerable as in cities such as Milan , Turin and Ferrara , because they are mitigated by the wind and the sea (which is about 10 km (6.2 mi) away from the city centre). Rainfall in July and August is rare.

Spring and autumn are very pleasant, although most rainfall occurs in these seasons.

Tourist information

• Pisa Tourism website

The airport is very close to the city centre, only 2 km (1.2 mi) south of the main railway station. Transport between city and airport:

• Pisamover is a pair of automated cable-drawn trams that shuttle between the airport and Pisa Centrale railway station. They run daily from 06:00 to 00:00 at 5-8 minute intervals, taking 5 minutes. Buy tickets from the self-service machines next to the platform gates (not from Trenitalia machines or kiosks): €6.50 per person. The airport station is 200 m from the terminal. At Pisa Centrale, follow signs through the subway to Platform 13, which looks desolate, but turn right to find the Pisamover platform and ticket machines. The two trams meet at a midway station, which is the Park & Ride area of Aurelia and San Giusto.
• City buses don't reach the airport, but stop on Via Sant'Agostino, a 5-10 minute walk north. They're often a better option than Pisamover for parts of the city away from the railway station, eg the Leaning Tower area. Head towards the Pisamover station then turn right, walk under the highway bridge and bear left to come onto Via Sant'Agostino. LAM verde , the green line, pass there every 10-15 minutes, from 06:00 to 21:00 (from 07:30 Sundays). Evening buses (Line 21) stop there every 30 minutes between 21:00 and 23:00, ( online timetables ). Buy tickets from the information desk in the arrivals hall.
• Direct buses to Florence and Lucca run from outside Arrivals.
• Easy Private Taxi has Pisa Airport to the city at €36 for a Mercedes E class, €43 for a minivan
• 123 Transfers [dead link] has Pisa Airport to the city at €37.50 for a sedan (3 people), €50 for a minivan (8 people)
• Kiwitaxi [dead link] has Pisa Airport to any part of the city at €33 for a comfort-class for 4 people, €40 for a minibus for 7 people, €108 for a premium-class for 3 people.
• Walk: it's less than 2 km (1.2 mi) to the railway station, and 3 km (1.9 mi) to the leaning tower. The route is through a residential area, uninteresting but safe to walk.

43.70793 10.39816 2 Pisa Centrale is the main railway station, just south of city centre. Rome to Genoa trains stop here; most other destinations involve changing at Florence (SMN or Rifredi) for the regional trains through Pisa Centrale to Livorno or Viareggio. There's a Left Luggage service here, open from 08:00-21:00, costing €5 for the entire day. This station is also the city terminus of the "Pisamover" tramway from the airport and Park & Ride.

To visit the area around the Leaning Tower, which is at the northwest corner of the old centre, 43.72344 10.38751 3 Pisa San Rossore station is much closer. It's on the branch line from Pisa Centrale to Lucca and Pistoia, with trains at least hourly.

Flixbus run direct between Pisa and Milan, Genoa and Rome. Don't use them for Florence, as the pick-up / drop-off is way out on the western edge of Florence.

With your own car, Pisa is easy to reach by autostrada, but city parking is the problem.

In the city centre, just walk.

The LAM or city buses run frequently to 18:00 then sparsely to 23:00. The most useful route is LAM Rossa , the red line, between railway station, riverside (stop Lungarno Pacinotti 2 ) and Leaning Tower (stop Piazza dei Miracoli ). LAM Verde runs near the airport.

Tickets for both LAM and out-of-town buses are €1.50 single, a pack of ten is €14. Single tickets can also be purchased from the bus driver for €2.50. Tickets must be validated on boarding the bus; they are then valid for 70 minutes.

Pisa has a public bicycle service called Ciclopi which allows travellers pick up and drop cycles to and from 15 points around the city. They have a mobile app Bicincittà , but the only way to register is to come in person to their point of sales: INFOPOINT piazza del Duomo 7 (in front of the Cathedral), every day 09.30 - 17.30; LA GALLERIA DEL DISCO via San Francesco 96, every day 09.00 - 20.00; SOLFERINO TABACCHI piazza Solferino 11, from Monday to Saturday 08.00 - 13.00 and 15.30-20.00. Possible subscriptions:

• Daily : €5, including €1 of credit.
• Weekly : €10, including €2 of credit.

Subscriptions include unlimited free rides up to 30 minutes. And then €0.9 for the second half hour, €1.5 for the third half hour, €2 for all subsequent half hours.

Not in the city centre: many streets are either pedestrianised or restricted to residents (ZTL, Zone a traffico limitato , camera-enforced but easy to stray into accidentally). Those streets that you can drive into are narrow, one-way, congested, and with next-to-no parking. Ask ahead at your accommodation for parking and permitted approach routes. For day-trips, Pisa Tower Parking is €1.80 per hour and close to the main sights.

You do however need a car to explore the villages in the hills of Tuscany. Consider hiring from the airport and either picking up late or dropping back early there, and just use public transport for Pisa, Lucca and Florence.

Taxis can be an expensive way to move around the city. They aren’t really needed in the center due to the size of Pisa, but if you are arriving at the airport and don’t want to walk they are a good option. If going to anywhere near the train station they would only be better than the Pisamover costwise if you are travelling in a group of 3 or more people.

The legal fares can be found on the CoTaPi website [dead link] .

Pisa is divided into 4 historical quarters. There is much more than the leaning tower in the city and several different walking itineraries are available.

Piazza dei Miracoli

The Piazza dei Miracoli or Field of Miracles is to the North of central Pisa. It is an UNESCO World Heritage site and contains the city's most famous sights:

• A 3 km (1.9 mi) walking tour along the city walls is one of the newest attractions in the city. It is an occasion to see the city, including the leaning tower and Campo dei Miracoli, from an unusual angle. They offer a great view over public and private buildings around the city, as well as many unexpected green areas. There are four entrances: one in Campo dei Miracoli, one next to a university campus near via Filippo Buonarroti, one in Piazza delle Gondole, and one in Piazza del Rosso, hidden behind a tiny gate. Bring water and sunscreen on sunny days, since there is not the tiniest bit of shadow along the whole tour. Open every day, 09:00-19:00 in the summer season. Tickets cost €3 (May 2019).

Piazza dei Cavalieri

• Other historical buildings include the Church of San Rocco , the Rectory , Palazzo Carovana and Palazzo dei Dodici .

Along the riverbank

Lungarno Mediceo and Lungarno Pacinotti on the Northern side of the Arno river, Lungarno Galilei and Lungarno Gambacorti on the south side: these riverside streets give a distinctive character to Pisa, especially at night when the lamplight reflects on the Arno river. Along the Lungarni stand interesting sights like:

• 43.71644 10.40223 14 Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza XX Settembre . Two opposing town square, one at each end of Ponte di Mezzo (middle bridge), and are considered the centre of the city. From Piazza Garibaldi starts Borgo Stretto, an old street with lots of shops that, together with Corso Italia starting in the opposite direction from Piazza XX Settembre, create a pedestrian area (interrupted only by the bridge) that is considered the centre of the city. In Piazza XX Settembre you can find the Logge dei Banchi, a building created to host textile market in 1600, and the town hall, in the Palazzo del Comune.  

Other parts of the city

• Fine Romanesque churches , San Paolo a Ripa d'Arno, San Michele in Borgo, San Paolo with a sculpture gallery inside, Sant'Andrea - not all are open every day; double-check the hours if you want to visit.

Further away

• Take a photo of yourself holding, leaning against, or "anthropologically appropriating" the leaning tower of Pisa.
• Take a stroll along the central shopping roads of the city, Corso Italia and Borgo Stretto, both pedestrian-only.
• Enjoy an aperitivo (evening drink with a light dinner buffet) in one of the many bars and pubs that offer it, around Piazza Gambacorti, Piazza delle Vettovaglie o Via delle Case Dipinte.
• Football: Pisa SC play soccer in Serie B, Italy's second tier. Their home ground is Arena Garibaldi (capacity 25,000) just north of the historic centre.
• On June 16th Pisa hosts the Luminara festival, held for the patron saint's day (San Ranieri). At sunset, all the lights along the Arno are dimmed and more than 10,000 candles are lit, which makes for some spectacular sights from the Ponte di Mezzo. Various activities are organized in the streets and the night ends with a big firework show.
• Another summer attraction is the Gioco del Ponte (Game of the Bridge), a historical event held yearly on the last Sunday of June. The two sides of the city ( Tramontana and Mezzogiorno , geographically split by the Arno river) participate in a historical parade, with 709 walk-ons, then challenge each other to a physical match in which their teams, each composed of 20 members, try to conquer the "Ponte di Mezzo" (the main bridge in Pisa) by pushing a trolley in order to force the rival team off the bridge. The parade is very colorful and can be enjoyed for free from anywhere along the river; on the other hand the Gioco itself is hard to see unless you get a ticket in advance to sit in the stands, and it is quite boring for outsiders, as some of the 7 'battles' can last more than 20 minutes. It is better to sit down at a bar and watch it from a TV screen.
• On March 25, a smaller historical parade takes place, to celebrate the traditional Pisan new year .
• Festival Internazionale di Musica Sacra - International Sacred Music Festival "Anima Mundi" takes place for two weeks in September of each year. This event, organized since 2001, is one of the most important of its kind, both at the national and international level.
• Casciana Terme . The thermal water has been used at Casciana Terme since ancient times. Its applications have been extended to modern rehabilitation therapies, cardiovascular and respiratory treatment, in the improvement of the digestive functions and their treatment, because its natural, relaxing action enables patients to regain their functional equilibrium and the enjoyment of pleasures they had lost.  
• San Giuliano Terme . Water with beneficial effects and calciferous magnesic sulfate water, naturally rich in vital curative elements, gush forth at the foot of Mount San Giuliano at the Spa out of different springs and are gathered in two groups called the "East Baths" (40°C) and the "West Baths" (38°C).  
• Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies of Pisa ( Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna ), P.zza Martiri della Libertà, 33 . Special-statute public university, emerging from Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa and operating in the field of applied sciences. ( updated Aug 2018 )
• Scuola Normale ( Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa ), Piazza dei Cavalieri, 7 . Another special-statute public university, founded in 1810, by a Napoleonic decree as a branch of the École Normale Supérieure of Paris. Recognized as a "national university" in 1862, one year after Italian unification. ( updated Aug 2018 )

The central shopping area is centered around the Corso Italia , between the railway station and the Ponte di Mezzo (the central bridge) and also in the Via Borgo Stretto , north of the bridge. However, many specialized shops are sprinkled around the city.

The area around the leaning tower is geared toward tourists: There are lots of small souvenir kiosks, stands and "flying merchants", selling all kinds of souvenirs from small statues to hourglasses - of course the general motif is the leaning tower.

It is illegal to buy from one of the "flying merchants" that sell fake replicas. They are very persuasive and if you buy anything you must haggle – they'll drop their prices significantly.

Every two weeks there is a street market with antique books, records and old household items.

And don't forget to try some of Pisa's famous biscotti (biscuits or cookies). Bakeries all through town will sell multiple varieties, for a low price.

For the budget option, if coming from the Airport, there is a Coop supermarket on the left, on Via Pasquale Pardi.

Pasta and pizza are among the tourists' favorites like everywhere in Italy, but Tuscan and Pisan cuisine has more to offer: several kinds of soups made with bread (for instance, pappa al pomodoro , or kale-based bordatino ), meat dishes ( chianina and mucco pisano are renowned beef breeds; game such as boar or hare can be found in various restaurants), and cold cuts. The traditional street food is cecina , a chickpea flour pancake, served inside focaccia with a sprinkle of pepper.

Traditional Tuscan bread is without salt ( pane sciocco ); this surprises most visitors.

As for alcoholic beverages, Tuscany is renowned for red wine ( Chianti , Brunello , Morellino ) but nowadays many establishments also offer a good selection of local craft beers.

If you have access to transport, an alternative to eating in Pisa is to take the relatively short drive to Marina di Pisa , the harbor of Pisa at the Mediterranean sea some 15 km (9.3 mi) from central Pisa. Just follow the SS224 road west on the south side of River Arno and you are there in 20 minutes. There are several restaurants by the seafront, and having your dinner here, outside and when the sun sets in the west, is a rewarding experience. Parking and tables may be out if you arrive late, so check the opening hours (many restaurants do not open until around 19:00) and be there early. Even better, spend an hour or two just walking along the beach before the restaurants open. Try Roca de Mar .

Restaurants

As a general rule, try not to eat directly at the Leaning Tower where prices are high and quality low. Walk 200 m south on the street Via Santa Maria . The restaurant Ristoro Pecorino and from there the restaurants southwards on Via Santa Maria are very good. Head further to the central area (5-10 minutes walking) and you can find more very good restaurants there. For example, there are excellent, friendly and reasonably priced cafeterias in the area of the busy small vegetable market, Piazza delle Vettovaglie. Also Via San Martino, close to the South bank of the river, offers some inexpensive places with good quality. (updated Sept 2022)

Around the Leaning Tower

The first three of the following restaurants are right next to each other:

• 43.722131 10.401674 1 Pizzeria Le Mura , Largo Parlascio, 34 . Really good pizza, focaccia and lunch all around. The pizza is absolutely delicious, the portion is huge and the crust is crispy and thick at the same time. There can be a bit of a wait but it’s worth it. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.721969 10.401937 2 Al Bagno di Nerone , Largo Parlascio, 26 . Very good pizza. Accurate and fast service. Fabulous Cecina. Mainly locals came to eat. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.721657 10.402175 3 Mr. Sgabeo , Via Carlo Fedeli, 2 . Fantastic sgabeo. Amazing sandwiches, incredible bread and delicious ingredients. Unique place for the variety and quality. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.720168 10.397416 4 L'Ostellino , Piazza Felice Cavallotti, 1 . Very nice sandwich with fresh ingredients. Truly authentic. Fast service, quality ingredients. ( updated Aug 2022 )

North of the bridge Ponte di Mezzo

• 43.718132 10.401593 5 Il Montino , Via del Monte . Great place to get fine pizza by the slice, cecina , and excellent focaccine . You can eat there or grab your food to go. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.716609 10.402123 6 La Ghiotteria , Vicolo delle Donzelle, 9/11 ( basically at Piazza Garibaldi ). Students' favorite pasta spot. Huge portions for cheap prices. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.719737 10.404533 7 Bar Pizzeria Moonlight , Via S. Lorenzo, 52 . Just a few meters off the main tourist route, a small pizzeria mainly serving lunch to locals. Small but good selection of daily lunch dishes, from classical pasta to summer time favorites such as swordfish. Large selection of pizza, including a couple of signature dishes - try out Pizza "lui e lei" (him and her). ( updated Jul 2022 )
• 43.71822 10.399133 8 Gramigna , Piazza San Felice di Nola 5 , ☏ +39 050 893 2140 . W-M 19:00-01:00 . Local pub that pairs home-made burgers and local craft beers at very competitive prices. Around €10 for a burger and a beer (June 2018) . ( updated Jul 2022 )

South of the bridge Ponte di Mezzo

• 43.713867 10.401269 9 Numeroundici , Via S. Martino, 47 , ☏ +39 050 27282 . M-Sa 12:00-22:30, closed Sa at lunchtime . Generous portions in an informal setting. €10-20 (June 2018) . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.713855 10.40301 10 Al Madina , Via S. Martino, 41/45 , ☏ +39 050 20409 . Tu-Su 11:30-15:00, 19:00-23:30, closed Su at lunch . Lebanese and Syrian kitchen. Serves a small selection of dishes made freshly. both classics (Shawarma, Kebap, Falafel, Baba Ghannug) and more elaborate dishes. Vegetarian options. Their excellent home-made Hummus and bread is a save-the-day for vegan travellers. The seating is informal, just as in the neighbouring Numero 11. €15 (June 2018) . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.714704 10.400566 11 La Taverna di Pulcinella , Via Garofani, 10 . Great pizzas, they make them in front of you. Very kind personal, high quality ingredients. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.712565 10.399995 12 Pizzeria da Nando , Corso Italia, 103 . Nice tomato sauce, very good mozzarella. Lots of locals. Delicious cecina, quality ingredients and very nice owners! ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.709907 10.399981 13 La Lupa Ghiotta , Viale Francesco Bonaini, 113 ( from the station walk towards Piazza Vittorio Emmanuele, than turn right in Viale Francesco Bonaini ), ☏ +39 050 21018 . Has very good food in a cozy environment. ( updated Apr 2022 )
• 43.71421 10.4008 14 NamasteIndia Ristorante ( NamasteIndia Ristorante Indiano ), Via S.Bernardo, 34 ( Crossing Street to Corso Italia ), ☏ +39 333 7546356 . 13:00-01:00 . Authentic typical Indian food. 5 minute walk from railway station. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.717494 10.402764 15 Osteria di Culegna , Via Mercanti (on the main road) . Good food and research of the Tuscan typical recipes, nice and smiley service. Closed on Sunday. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.718212 10.399923 16 Pizzeria Tavola Calda La Tana , V. San Frediano . 12:00-15:00 and 19:00 onwards . This is a restaurant frequented by locals. The food is good and reasonably priced compared to other restaurants in Pisa. Staff welcome all the locals and pamper the tourists. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.717822 10.399585 17 Pizzeria L'Arancio , Via l'Arancio 1 , ☏ +39 0505 007 29 , [email protected] . M-Sa 12:00-15:30, 19:00-22:00 . Affordable pizzeria which also serves good foccacia. Relaxed student-like atmosphere. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.723355 10.402085 18 Pizzeria Il Fornaccio , Via Luigi Bianchi, 33 ( Just outside the city walls. ). A pizzeria just outside the walls. Pizza is very good and the appetizers (antipasti) possibly even better. Very affordable. Authentic informal Italian pizzeria atmosphere. The place is not very big and popular with locals late in the evening, so it is best to arrive early (before 20:00) or reserve a table, especially during week-ends. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 43.718408 10.395389 19 Ristorante India , Via Roma, 52 . A good Indian restaurant near the Leaning Tower with a beautiful atmosphere and really good dishes. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• La Mescita , Via Cavalca, very close to Piazza delle Vettovaglie. An expensive but very good choice. They serve both traditional and more sophisticated food.
• Osteria dei Cavalieri , Via San Frediano. close to Piazza dei Cavalieri . Quite expensive but very good. You can find typical and traditional recipes from Tuscany.
• Ristorante La Buca , Excellent fish dishes. Good quality - price ratio.

Ice cream is not just a refreshing dessert on hot days, it's an art and a style of life. The ice-cream shops listed below all have their own style and philosophy on ice-cream. They use only seasonal ingredients. You'd be surprised on the variety of tastes and sensations. And the best: prices are stable around €2-2.50 for two scoops, independent of where you go.

• 43.716697 10.398391 20 Gelateria Naturale Artigianale De' Coltelli , Lungarno Antonio Pacinotti, 23 , ☏ +39 34 54811903 . 11:30–22:30 (23:30 on F and Sa), closed in the winter . Ice cream made using quality ingredients, many of which are locally sourced. ( updated Jun 2018 )
• Artisan Gelateria Rufus, Piazza Martiri della Libertà, 25. All ingredients are local and organic.

Pasticceria

• Dolce Notte Cornetteria Via S. Bernardo, 41. Not really a fine pasticceria, but the trendy spot to fill up your reserves when you're hopping from one bar to the other late at night. Their maxi-cornetto with up to 3 fillings of your choice will make you fit for dancing through the night.
• Pasticceria Da Tripoli , Via Guglielmo Oberdan, 53 (at the end of Borgo Stretto to the left). Very traditional pasticceria with typical cookies and pasties. A local's favorite. Moderate prices. Closed on Mondays.
• Pasticceria Cioccoroccolato , Via Buonarroti. A bit off the regular tourist route. French-inspired modern pasticceria with amazing creations, combining Italian classics and international sweets. Varying selection to surprise their loyal local customers, who visit them both for their morning coffee and a truly masterful elaborate signature coffee in the afternoon. Closed on Sundays.
• Salza , in Borgo Stretto, high prices but good chocolate, sweets and pastries of all kinds. Don't sit down inside, though, because you will end up paying €10 for two coffees.

During summer nights, everybody stays around the banks of the rivers, sipping drinks bought from the several bars in the area. A few very good wine bars are also available for colder, winter nights.

• 43.71771 10.401058 1 Orzo Bruno , Via Case Dipinte 6/8 ( A bit tricky to find but worth it ), ☏ +39 050 578802 . Su-Th 19:00-01:00, F Sa 19:00-02:00 . Artisan organic beer and organic food. €4.5 for a pint, €4-8 for food .  
• Bar Mocambo , Via S. Bernardo, 29. Cozy cocktail bar with a vast selection of drinks. Outstanding signature cocktails. Serves more than 100 kinds of rum from all over the world, often paired with treats such as specialty chocolate. Ask the bartender to help you choose!
• Pisa Caffè dell'Ussero , Lungarno Pacinotti, 27 . It is a monument to Italian culture in the 1400s Palazzo Agostini, on Lungarno. Its walls are covered with glorious mementos from its most famous visitors of the Risorgimento when they were students: Carlo Goldoni, Gacomo Casanova, Vittorio Alfieri, Filippo Mazzei, John Ruskin, Domenico Guerrazzi, Giuseppe Giusti, Renato Fucini, Giosuè Carducci, Cesare Abba, Giuseppe Montanelli. In 1839, it was seat of the meetings of the first Italian Congress of Scientists.  
• Vineria di Piazza , Piazza delle Vettovaglie. Serves great wine and very few dishes. You can find very traditional food here.

For nightlife , there aren't many clubs or live music places in Pisa: the usual night in Pisa is having a dinner of pizza or a cheap kebab, a beer in Borgo Stretto, Piazza delle Vettovaglie, Piazza Gambacorti or a pub in the surrounding areas, and a walk in Piazza Garibaldi, Piazza dei Cavalieri or the Lungarni, where the spallette (the low brick walls around the river) are full of students.

Some alternative clubs in the centre where you can find live music are:

• Ex-Wide (jazz/swing)
• Borderline (rock/metal; closed June to September, when they move to an alternative location on the seaside at Eliopoli/Calambrone).
• Lumiere (dance/electronic)

Less alternative clubs are found at the seaside, about 8 km (5.0 mi) from Pisa, in Marina di Pisa and Tirrenia. For instance

• Pappafico (a disco with house music and the like)
• PIA (a disco/bar on the sea)
• Sunset (mainly an aperitivo/happy hour/chill-out location on the sea)

Outside the city centre but reachable on foot, in the north-eastern outskirts of the city, is

• Deposito Pontecorvo (a small disco)
• [dead link] Babette ( food and art café ), Lungarno Mediceo 15 , ☏ +39 050 9913302 . The place has a strong personality; you can tell it's owned by art and culture lovers. You can pick up a book and read while having a glass of wine or a cup of hot chocolate, or even have a meal. Sometimes concerts take place in this café, and there are also evenings dedicated to special themes.  
• Ritz , Borgo Stretto . Good coffee, fine service and the best dressed baristas. They also sell French wine, including champagne.  

The Pisa hills were already a popular destination for enlightened travellers in the first half of the 1700s, due mostly to the popularity of the thermal spa of San Giuliano, which quickly became a fashionable spot for the upper classes. The mansions on the road along the hills, already renowned as places of idleness and relaxation in the heart of the countryside, soon assumed the characteristics of true leisure resorts, just like those narrated by Carlo Goldoni. Stay at Bagni di Pisa ('health-giving' waters are still offered to an international clientele) and then visit Pisa during one of the city’s festivals, staying at the Agostini Palace to enjoy the best view of the festivities. The Villa has hosted many illustrious guests such as Gustavus III of Sweden, Christian II of Denmark, the Royal Family of Great Britain, Benedict Stuart Cardinal of York, General Murat, Luigi Buonaparte, Paolina Borghese, Carlo Alberto of Savoy, the poets Byron and Shelley, and various other personages from the history books.

• 43.70717 43.70717 1 Hostel Pisa , via Corridoni, 29 ( Pisa airport ), ☏ +39 050 520 1841 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 23:00 . FA youth hostel with dorm beds and private rooms. Walking distance from Pisa train central station and Pisa International Airport, 24-hr reception. Free Wifi. Laundry, kitchen, street parking (free from 20:00-08:00), dining room in-door & out-door, guest lounge, theatre, TV room. From €17 .  
• Pisa Tower Hostel , Piazza Garibaldi, 9 , ☏ +39 33 1788 6859 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 10:30 . Free internet and kitchen. From €15 .  
• Airone Pisa Park Hotel , Via Sant'Elena Asciano, 4 , San Giuliano Terme ( 4 km (2.5 mi) northeast of city, road is poor ), ☏ +39 050 822 284 , [email protected] . Countryside 3-star with outdoor swimming pool, free internet access, restaurant, bar, English cable TV, bicycle, free car parking and family rooms. From €50 . ( updated Oct 2018 )
• Athena , Via Risorgimento 42 , ☏ +39 050 550 887 . Small hotel with 12 rooms. From €60 . ( updated Oct 2018 )
• Eden Park Resort Pisa , Via dell'Argine, 6b, Colignola ( 4 km (2.5 mi) east of city, take SP2 towards Mezzana ), ☏ +39 050 870 252 . A resort in the Tuscan countryside near the banks of the Arno river. 30 cottages surrounded by mountains, valleys and picturesque historical villages. Doubles from €60 . ( updated Oct 2018 )
• Hotel Francesco , Via Santa Maria, 129 , ☏ +39 050 555 453 , fax : +39 050 386 9998 , [email protected] . Near the tower, rooms with private bathrooms. Doubles from €80 . ( updated Oct 2018 )
• Michele Guest House B&B , Via Amerigo Vespucci 103 ( next to rwy station ), ☏ +39 33 3601 1287 , [email protected] . Six rooms with private bathroom and shower, fully furnished, A/C, LCD TV, free internet access, coffee machine. Consistently clean and welcoming. Doubles €80-120 . ( updated Oct 2018 )
• NH Pisa , Piazza della Stazione 2 , ☏ +39 050 43 290 , fax : +39 050 502 242 . Rooms are modern with good views. Doubles from €100 . ( updated Oct 2018 )
• San Ranieri Hotel , Via Mazzei, 2 ( Cisanello, near hospital ), ☏ +39 050 971 951 , [email protected] . 4-star hotel, some rooms have sky view, all rooms have WiFi. There are also a restaurant, ample parking space and conference facilities. Doubles from €90 . ( updated Oct 2018 )
• Villa Kinzica ( The Pelican ), Piazza Arcivescovado 2 ( in the centre ), ☏ +39 050 560419 , fax : +39 050 551 204 . 3-star with en suite single, double, and triple rooms, great location. Doubles from €70 . ( updated Oct 2018 )
• 43.72279 10.39897 3 NOT EXISTING LISTING IMAGE Bed and Breakfast ARISTON , Via Cardinale Maffi, 21 ( just behind the Piazza dei Miracoli ), ☏ +39 335 5794968 , [email protected] . Bed and Breakfast. €65 . ( updated Oct 2022 )
• 43.720718 10.399184 4 Hotel Relais dell' Orologio , Via della Faggiola 12/14 56127 ( central ), ☏ +39 050 830 361 , fax : +39 050 551 869 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Converted townhouse with an annexe, mostly en suite doubles with a small number of singles and family rooms, pleasant communal areas, main selling point is proximity to the tower. 5-star going on 3, gets very mixed reviews. Doubles from €125 . ( updated Oct 2018 )

Pisa is a safe city. You do not need to worry about your safety (except in some zones at night, such as the area surrounding the station). However, you should take the obvious precautions (like, if you stay in a very cheap hotel, take your valuables with you) and watch out for pickpockets in the touristy areas.

As stated in the Buy section, avoid purchasing sunglasses, umbrellas, and other trinkets from illegal sellers. Definitely steer clear of counterfeit luxury goods. Upon arriving to Pisa, it is not uncommon for tourists to be swarmed by African vendors. Some vendors can be pushy or even downright aggressive. Even saying "no thank you" can bring unwanted attention. It's much better to ignore them entirely. Don't worry about being rude.

Even though cheap prices are tempting, especially when travelling on a budget, the Italian police have fined tourists for buying from illegal sellers. These fines can be very steep (up to €1,000). In front of the Tower, there are several legal vendors who have permits to sell items to tourists or anyone else. Be responsible and buy from them. Legal vendors have stalls lined along the main road whereas illegal vendors keep merchandise in a sack, cardboard boxes, or (in the case of fake purses) on their arms.

As of June 2022, Pisa has 4G from Iliad, Tim and Vodafone, and 5G from Wind Tre.

• Lucca . You can travel by train to this beautiful nearby city.
• Florence . Very easily reachable by train from Pisa Centrale.
• Cinque Terre by train to La Spezia and Genova .
• Volterra by bus.
• Calci is very easily reachable by bus. A charming medieval village nestled in the Pisan Mountains. The baroque Charterhouse and the Museum of Natural History (home to the largest collection of whale bones in Europe) are among its attractions.

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Pisa

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Pisa was a major Roman port, but the Arno River has since silted up, leaving it 10 kilometers inland. In 1063, Pisa's navy was instrumental in defeating the Saracens at Messina and Palermo, beginning Pisa's rise to control Mediterranean shipping. The cathedral was built in thanks for these victories and enriched by booty brought back by its fleet in the First Crusade.

Commerce and industry flourished, and Pisa's architects, sculptors, and painters became famous throughout Europe. In 1284, rival Genoa defeated Pisa's navy, and in 1406, Pisa fell to Florence. But the ruling Médici took a keen interest here, constructing bridges and canals, so the city continued to thrive.

Pisa is the birthplace of Galileo Galilei (1564-1642), and legend holds that the cathedral's swaying chandelier inspired him to design the clock pendulum. Pisa's main tourist attractions – the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, Baptistery, and Campo Santo – are close together in the Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles), and comprise a UNESCO World Heritage site .

If you're wondering where to eat or go shopping in Pisa, follow Via Maffi from the Campo dei Miracoli to the busy Borgo Stretto , lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants.

For more ideas, see our list of the top tourist attractions in Pisa.

See also: Where to Stay in Pisa

1. The Leaning Tower of Pisa

2. cathedral of santa maria assunta, 3. baptistery, 4. campo santo (sacred field), 5. museo dell'opera del duomo (cathedral museum), 6. murale tuttomondo by keith haring, 7. arsenals & museum of ancient ships, 8. santa maria della spina, 9. stroll along borgo stretto, 10. palazzo dei cavalieri, 11. palazzo blu, 12. basilica romanica di san piero a grado, 13. orto botanico (botanic garden), 14. santo stefano dei cavalieri, 15. museo nazionale di san matteo (national museum of san matteo), 16. go to the beach, where to stay in pisa for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to pisa, map of tourist attractions & things to do in pisa, pisa, italy - climate chart, more things to see and do near pisa.

Every child has heard of it, and every visitor to Pisa probably heads first to what is undoubtedly the world's most famous tower: La Torre Pendente, the leaning campanile standing next to the cathedral.

The foundation stone was laid in 1173, when Pisa was Italy's most powerful maritime republic, and its loggia-like tiers were modeled after the cathedral facade. Even before the third story was completed, the tower had already begun to sink alarmingly on its south side. When counterweighting the north side and slightly increasing the height of the south walls proved ineffective, construction was halted.

Almost 100 years later, work resumed, attempting to counteract the tilt by angling the upper stories more towards the vertical. The open bell-chamber was added to the white marble tower in 1350-72, by Tommaso Pisano.

Until 1990, tourists climbed the spiral staircase of 294 steps to the top platform, but with the angle of tilt increasing by one millimeter a year, it was calculated that the tower would topple by the year 2000.

When rotational movement around the axis was also detected, increasing the risk, the tower was closed in 1990 to allow an expensive program of restoration. When the tower re-opened in 2001, the 5.5-degree tilt had been modified to about 3.99 degrees, leaving the top out of line by 3.9 meters. You'll also notice a slight curve in the tower, resulting from attempts by various architects to correct its tilt during construction.

Address: Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa

Official site: http://www.opapisa.it/en

The definitive example of the Pisan architectural style, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is a five-aisled Romanesque basilica of white marble designed by Pisan architect Buscheto. Begun in 1063, after Pisa's naval victory over the Saracens, it was consecrated (still unfinished) in 1118, and towards the end of that century, a new west front was added and the main apse was completed.

The decorated arcading on the splendid façade is continued round the side walls, and its transepts end in small apses that project well beyond the aisles. Dominating the whole interior is a well-proportioned oval dome. In the apse is a 13th- to 14th-century mosaic of Christ enthroned between the Virgin and John the Evangelist, by Cimabue. Don't miss the bronze doors of the Porta di San Ranieri, with scenes from the lives of the Virgin and of Christ.

The artistic highlight in the cathedral is the pulpit by Giovanni Pisano , which is similar to the one in the Church of Sant'Andrea in Pistoia . It was created between 1302 and 1311, and Giovanni Pisano's vigorous style and rounded forms mark a departure from the severe style of his father Nicola, whose more angular pulpit you can see in the baptistery.

The pulpit is supported on columns (the shorter ones borne on lions) and figures of the Archangel Michael, Hercules, and Christ, with the Four Evangelists around the base. Relief panels around the pulpit show New Testament scenes.

West of the cathedral, the free-standing baptistery was begun in 1153, almost a hundred years after the cathedral but still in the great days of Pisa. It carries out the design of the cathedral by using the same building material, patterning with different colors of stone, and by the blind arcading and dwarf galleries.

But as work continued over two centuries, it began to show the transition from Romanesque to Gothic between the lower and the upper levels. In 1260, Nicola Pisano took over responsibility for the project, followed (1285-93) by his son Giovanni. The conical dome stands on four pillars and eight columns, creating an effect of light and solemnity.

Like the cathedral, the baptistery's unquestioned highlight is the free-standing marble pulpit, a 1260 masterpiece by Nicola Pisano and one of the great masterworks of Romanesque sculpture. It is decorated with relief panels depicting New Testament scenes with great artistic intensity.

Be sure also to see the font by Guido da Como (1246) and the figures of saints by students of Nicola and Giovanni Pisano. The baptistery is also notable for its superb acoustics, which the guides usually make a point of demonstrating.

According to local legend, Archbishop Ubaldo dei Lanfranchi returned from the Fourth Crusade with several shiploads of earth from Golgotha, so that the citizens of Pisa could be buried in sacred soil. The construction of the Camposanto (Sacred Field) to hold it began in 1278, a large rectangular cloister whose gallery of arches decorated with Gothic tracery open into the courtyard.

On the floor of the cloister are the graves of Pisan patricians, and around the sides are Roman sarcophagi. The walls were covered with 14th- and 15th-century frescoes, but a fire caused by artillery bombardment in 1944 melted the lead roof, either destroying or badly damaging the frescoes.

The upside of this tragic loss was the uncovering of the original artists' sketches in red pigment on the walls underneath. These sinópie were the artist's most important contribution to a fresco, specifying every detail of a composition; the actual painting of the fresco was often left to students and assistants.

These sinópie are now shown, with reproductions of the corresponding frescoes, in Museo delle Sinópie . Those frescoes that were saved have been painstakingly restored over the years and returned to the cloister.

One of the best designed and curated museums in Tuscany is also one of the least-visited places on the Campo dei Miracoli, which is a shame because it adds enormously to an understanding of the art and craftsmanship of that era. And it has an added bonus for those who do explore it: a superb view of the Leaning Tower from the huge second-floor windows.

The cathedral's museum houses its considerable treasury, which includes priceless masterworks of silversmiths, rich embroideries, tombs, sculpture, and paintings. Many of the sculptures once decorated various buildings of the complex, but were brought indoors for protection many years ago - before they were subject to modern atmospheric pollution, so they are in such good condition that they seem to have been created yesterday instead of centuries ago.

The collections, which are well labeled and described in English, begin six centuries ago, with Islamic inlays of colored marble that once decorated the cathedral, reminders that Pisa's naval empire extended into the Middle East.

So many treasures will catch your eye, but don't miss the bronze griffin; the wooden crucifix by Borgognone; the Citharoedus David; the Limoges caskets; the works of Giovanni Pisano, most especially his Madonnas, the exquisite small ivory statue, and the crucifix known as the Crocifisso d'Elci.

You may recognize one Roman sculpture, a bust of Julius Caesar sculpted during or soon after his lifetime, and the image you've seen in most history books.

In 1989, after a chance encounter with a student from Pisa, artist Keith Haring was commissioned to paint a mural on the rear wall of Sant'Antonio Abate church. The resulting Tuttomondo (all the world) is one of the largest murals in Europe , at 180 square meters, and took Haring a week to complete.

Tuttomondo is one of only a few outdoor works created by Haring for permanent public display, and he later called it one of his most important. It was also to be one of his last. He completed only one other mural before his death in 1990 at age 31.

Thirty figures, painted in bright colors and in Haring's cartoon style, seem to tumble across the wall. Women, men, children, a dolphin, a bat, and other animals mix together in an exuberant dance. Haring's message of harmony and love between humans, animals, and nature is as relevant today as it was in 1989.

The Arsenals were built between 1548 and 1588 by Grand Duke Cosimo I de' Medici to strengthen his naval power and revive the glory days of Pisa's Maritime Republic. The large arcaded sheds were used to build 50-meter-long galleys, warships that were launched directly into the Arno.

The arsenals were built inside the Cittadella, which dates to 1160, but has only the San'Agnese tower still intact. The tall Guelfa Tower (which you can climb for sweeping views across Pisa and the Arno) was built in the early 1400s and rebuilt after World War II damage.

After 1543, the Cittadella was used as artillery barracks and later converted into stables for the Dragon knights, who protected Pisa from Barbary pirates. Today, the arsenal serves as a fitting home for the Museum of Ancient Ships, displaying the exceptional finds from excavations in 1998.

In that year, a construction project unearthed more than 30 ancient ships dating from between the 2nd century BC and the 5th century AD – from the Etruscans to the collapse of the Roman Empire. The grand rooms and aisles built for the Grand Duke's ships, now display the restored Roman ships and the artifacts found with them, telling of voyages, routes, daily life on board, and shipwrecks.

Address: Lungarno Ranieri Simonelli 16, Pisa

Official site: https://www.navidipisa.it/en/

The Church of Santa Maria della Spina, on the left bank of the Arno, is perhaps the best known of Pisa's smaller churches and certainly one of its loveliest. Originally a small oratory sitting right on the river, it suffered severe foundation damage, and in 1871 it was pulled down stone by stone and rebuilt higher up.

The richly ornate Gothic church owes its name to its possession of a thorn ( spina ) from Christ's crown of thorns, brought to Pisa from the Holy Land. The west front has two doorways and three distinctive gables, each with a small rose window. On the south side of the church, a series of arches enclose doorways and windows, and higher up, a niche with figures of Christ and the Apostles.

The building is crowned by tabernacles containing statues, some of them now replaced by copies and the originals displayed in the Museo Nazionale . The original of the Madonna del Latte is also in the museum; the one inside the church is a replica.

Address: Lungarno Gambacorti, Pisa

Between the rail station and the Piazza dei Miracoli, you'll find the narrow, atmospheric Borgo Stretto, lined by buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries. Arcades shelter its sides from the sun and rain, and small shops mix with name-brand stores, cafés, and sidewalk vendors.

Borgo Stretto is always busy, a favorite place for Pisans to stroll and shop. Look for C asa Bocca , at the corner of Borgo Stretto and via Mercanti; it's the house where Galileo was born.

This palace in the Piazza dei Cavalieri (Knights' Square) is also known as the Palazzo della Carovana and was originally the Palazzo degli Anziani (Palace of the Elders). In 1562, architect Giorgio Vasari began rebuilding and enlarging it, creating the magnificent Palazzo dei Cavalieri, named after the training courses for knights ( cavalieri ) of the Order of St. Stephen, which were held here.

The most imposing and ornate building outside of the Piazza dei Miracoli , its facade is decorated with sgraffito ornament; coats of arms; and busts of six Medici Grand Dukes of Tuscany, from Cosimo I to Cosimo III. The grandeur is enhanced by the projecting roof and the handsome double staircase leading up to the entrance.

Since 1810, the palazzo has housed the Scuola Normale Superiore, an élite college of higher education founded by Napoleon. In front of the building is a statue of Cosimo I by Piero Francavilla. On the north side of the piazza is the Palazzo dell'Orológio, built in 1607 for the Order of St. Stephen and incorporating the remains of two early medieval tower houses.

Address: Piazza dei Cavalieri, Pisa

Palazzo Giuli Rosselmini Gualandi , more commonly called Palazzo Blu, houses rich permanent collections of paintings and other art, the works of Italian artists from the 16th to the 20th century. In addition, its collections include fine furniture and early coins.

Beyond these collections are a continuing series of special exhibitions that may cover anything from science to cinema, or may feature the works of a single artist, such as M.C. Escher or local favorite, the groundbreaking Italian modernist Amedeo Modigliani.

Address: Lungarno Gambacorti 9, Pisa

Away from the center of Pisa, on the road to its marina, stands the 10th-century basilica built at the old port of Pisa, at the spot where St. Peter is believed to have landed in Italy in 44 AD. The site is well inland today, but 2,000 years ago, the Mediterranean extended this far.

The church was constructed and modified over two centuries, and its interior is lined with frescoes, their colors still vibrant. At the back of the church, excavations reveal foundations of an earlier Paleo-Christian church and even earlier Roman buildings.

Address: Via Livornese, Pisa

Also known as the Orto Botanico dell'Università di Pisa, Pisa's botanical garden was the first university botanical garden in Europe, founded by Cosimo I de'Medici in the mid-1500s. You can explore various environments and collections, both outdoors and in its several buildings, to find herb gardens, an arboretum of rare trees, water gardens, and greenhouses. One of these is Europe's first iron-framed glasshouse.

Be sure to see the old botany school dating from the late 1500s, with its façade decorated in seashells. After Pisa's almost overwhelming abundance of Renaissance artworks, this is a pleasant and restful place to visit in the middle of the city.

Address: Via Luca Ghini 5, Pisa

The Church of Santo Stéfano, like the palaces surrounding Piazza dei Cavalieri, was designed by Vasari. It was originally built in 1565-69, and in 1594-1606, a marble facade was added, designed by Giovanni de' Médici.

The two 17th-century side wings were originally changing-rooms for the knights of the Order of St. Stephen, who wore their ceremonial costume for services. These rooms were later incorporated into the church as aisles, but as they are linked with the nave only by two doorways on each side, the first impression inside is of an aisleless church.

In the panels of the coffered ceiling are paintings showing the history of the Order of St. Stephen, whose function was to defend the city against enemy raids. On the walls are trophies and captured enemy flags recalling Pisa's Turkish wars. Be sure to see the richly decorated high altar (1709), with the throne of the martyred Pope Stephen I (254-257) and the Baroque organ.

Beyond the blockbuster sights of the Campo dei Miracoli, Pisa offers a number of less well-known attractions and things to do. The former Benedictine Convent of San Matteo now houses Pisa's National Museum of San Matteo, featuring sculpture and pictures of the Tuscan schools from the 12th to the 15th centuries.

Particularly interesting are the sculptures from various Pisan churches brought here to preserve them from weather and environmental damage and replaced by copies. Look especially for the originals of statues by Giovanni Pisano from the baptistery and the famous Madonna del Latte (c. 1340) from the Church of Santa Maria della Spina .

Paintings by a number of 12th- and 13th-century artists include religious subjects, and you'll find excellent examples of illuminated books and manuscripts.

Address: Lungarno Mediceo, Piazza San Matteo 1, Pisa

There is no escaping the fact that summers in Pisa are hot. A good way to cool off after sightseeing is to head to the shore. The Arno River flows into the Mediterranean Sea just to the west of central Pisa, and from the port south to Tirrenia, the coast is lined with a succession of sandy beaches.

These are lively, busy bands of sand defined by private beach clubs ( stabilimento balneare ), which for a daily fee provide beach loungers, umbrellas, and the use of changing tents, showers, and restrooms. Although there are occasional free areas of beach, they are small and crowded; to get the full Italian beach experience, you should use a stabilimento.

We recommend these convenient hotels near the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazza dei Miracoli, and other top tourist attractions in Pisa:

• Bologna Hotel Pisa : This mid-priced hotel has an old-world feel and is close to shops and restaurants; the hotel offers free breakfast and an airport shuttle.
• NH Pisa : Conveniently located near the train station, NH Pisa offers amenities not usually found in mid-priced hotels, such as valet parking and soundproof rooms.
• Hotel Alessandro della Spina : This affordable three-star hotel has a friendly staff, spacious rooms, and an included breakfast.
• Helvetia : In a beautiful old building on a quiet street, this budget hotel has a whimsical decor.

Getting to Pisa:

• Pisa is the arrival point for many travelers, as it has Tuscany's largest airport. But most visitors come to Pisa from Florence, less than an hour away by direct train. The Leaning Tower and surrounding attractions are about a 30-minute walk from the train station. An easy way to visit these sights is on a Pisa Half-Day Trip from Florence including Skip-the-Line Leaning Tower of Pisa Ticket , which has the added advantage of getting you directly to the Leaning Tower without having to wait in the long lines. A local guide can also add perspective to Pisa and its surroundings during the coach ride from Florence.

Places to Visit on Day Trips: Of the many possible day trips from Pisa, the lovely walled town of Lucca is the closest, a short train ride away. South of Pisa is Livorno and to the east is San Gimignano , one of the most beautiful hill towns in Tuscany.

Where to Go from Pisa: Although there are no beaches in Pisa, Viareggio is only 15 minutes to the north and beyond it is Forte dei Marmi, along a coast with some of Italy's best beaches . For more active outdoor activity, continue north along the coast to hike the trail between the towns of the Cinque Terre , one of the top things to do in Italy .

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Once a maritime power to rival Genoa and Venice, modern Pisa is best known for an architectural project gone terribly wrong. But the world-famous Leaning Tower is just one of many noteworthy sights in this compelling city. Education has fuelled the local economy since the 1400s, and students from across Italy compete for places in its elite university. This endows the centre of town with a vibrant cafe and bar scene, balancing an enviable portfolio of well-maintained Romanesque buildings, Gothic churches and Renaissance piazzas with a lively street life dominated by locals rather than tourists – a charm you will definitely not discover if you restrict your visit to Piazza dei Miracoli.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Leaning Tower

One of Italy's signature sights, the Torre Pendente truly lives up to its name, leaning a startling 3.9 degrees off the vertical. The 58m-high tower,…

Pisa's magnificent duomo was begun in 1064 and consecrated in 1118. Its striking tiered exterior, with green-and-cream marble cladding, gives onto a…

Pisa's unusual round baptistry has one dome piled on top of another, each roofed half in lead, half in tiles, and topped by a gilt bronze John the Baptist…

Mura di Pisa (Main Entrance)

For an alternative bird's-eye perspective of the Leaning Tower and grandiose Piazza dei Miracoli rooftops, take a walk atop Pisa's medieval city walls,…

Piazza dei Miracoli

Pisans claim that Campo dei Miracoli is among the world's most beautiful urban spaces. Its walled lawns provide a photogenic setting for the candy-striped…

Soil shipped from Calvary during the Crusades is said to lie within the white walls of this hauntingly beautiful resting place for many prominent Pisans,…

Museo delle Sinopie

Home to some fascinating frescoes, this museum safeguards several sinopie (preliminary sketches), drawn by the artists in red earth pigment on the walls…

Museo Nazionale di San Matteo

This inspiring repository of medieval masterpieces sits in a 13th-century Benedictine convent on the Arno's northern waterfront boulevard. The museum's…

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May 21, 2018 • 2 min read

One of the great mysteries of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa is how it could have survived through major earthquakes.

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Pisa: City of the Leaning Tower and More

The Leaning Tower has made Pisa famous all over the world, and in addition to the tower, the city offers many other interesting things to see worth at least an entire day - check out our 1 day in Pisa itinerary to plan your visit. When you first arrive at the beautiful Square of Miracles ( Piazza dei Miracoli ), your sight will be captivated by the magnificent Tower . Don’t just admire it from below: the climb up the tower is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that we highly encourage you to experience. You will enjoy both the incredible climb as well as the amazing views from the top (you can buy tickets in advance as number of entries are limited every half hour)!

Once you have admired the Tower of Pisa from all angles (including the classic picture in which you pretend to support it to keep as a memento), continue your visit to the other monuments in the Piazza: the Cathedral and the Baptistery . Along the perimeter of the square, there is also the Cemetery , the Cathedral Museum and the Museum of the Synopses. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Arno river and on your way, pass by Clock Palace to enter into Piazza dei Cavalieri , which was once the heart of power in the city and later the headquarters of the Knights of St. Stephen . In the Palazzo della Carovana overlooking the square, the prestigious Scuola Normale of Pisa has its base.

What else to do in Pisa? Eat cecina ! It’s a kind of very thin gluten-free bread made with chickpea flour, water, oil, salt and black pepper. You can eat the cecina alone or in a schiacciatina, a flat bread. A real treat you must try!

Annual events

Every June , Pisa celebrates the city’s patron saint, San Ranieri, with traditional events following one another during the Giugno Pisano . If you are in Pisa at this time of the year, we suggest you spend some time in Pisa and enjoy the Luminara , the Regatta of San Ranieri and the Battle of the Bridge .

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An itinerary for an entire day in Pisa

An itinerary to discover Pisa and its marvellous artistic attractions: visit the Square of Miracles with its Leaning Tower and take a walk along the famous Lungarni, rich in shops and restaurants where you may taste typical local recipes. This visit to the enchanting marittime Republic will take you back in time and make you breathe a timeless atmosphere!

Buy Tickets for the Leaning Tower

Visit the Leaning Tower in Pisa: do not miss the chance to discover the secrets of one of the most famous monuments in the world. Buy tickets online and skip the line ! Just note that kids under 8 cannot climb the tower.

Book your Hotel in Pisa with the Best Prices

With Booking.com you can compare all Pisa hotels, check availability and read travellers' opinions to choose the perfect accommodation for your vacation. Reserve your stay in the city of the Leaning Tower at the best Internet rate!

The Square of Miracles in Pisa

You must absolutely visit the beautiful Square of Miracles in Pisa. Here is where you will find Pisa's best and most enchanting treasures: the Cathedral or Duomo, emblem of Pisan Romanesque architecture and its bell tower, known worldwide as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. You'll also find the baptistery, the cemetery (Camposanto) and other museums. While the exteriors are enchanting, make sure to also visit inside!

Top Experiences in Tuscany

The Certosa di Calci in Pisa: A Monastery with Whales!

With one stop you can take in the fabulous architectural structure of the Certosa di Calci and have a peek at the the incredible curious collection that makes this one of the world's foremost scientific museum

The most fascinating miracle of all, the Leaning Tower

While in Pisa, you have to visit the Leaning Tower! It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to climb up a leaning building, challenging your own sense of balance. The climb is a lot of steps, but the experience and view are both worth it.

Where to Park in Pisa

If you're driving to Pisa, here is some useful information on free and paid parking lots, with details on how they work, so that you can concentrate on visiting this charming town beyond the Leaning Tower and stay for more than just an hour.

June, a month of festivities in Pisa

Are you planning to visit Pisa in June? This is one of the best months to visit the city of the Leaning Tower as it will be hosting many traditional events along the Arno river, from the Luminara to the Regatta of San Ranieri to the Battle of the Bridge.

The Luminara in Pisa

The Luminara in Pisa is a special event - the city and river glows in the light of thousands of candles lit outside of palaces, churches, towers and bridges along the Arno on the eve of the feast day of San Ranieri, Pisa's patron saint.

Flying into Tuscany: Pisa and Florence

Information on Tuscany's two main airports, the Galileo airport in Pisa and the Peretola/Vespucci airport in Florence, and tips on how to move to other parts of Tuscany from there.

The Battle of the Bridge in Pisa

A historical game that is held annualy in Pisa on the last Saturday of June between the various neighborhoods in town. A great time to see a special traditional event which takes place in historical costume as well as visit the city of the Leaning Tower.

Regatta of San Ranieri in Pisa

The regatta of San Ranieri is an interesting race in the Arno - the winner is not who arrives first but who manages to climb a rope and grab the right colored flag! An ancient custom in celebrating Pisa's patron saint feast day.

Volterra is usually referred to as the Etruscan city and the City of Alabaster . If you love archaeological sites, then Volterra is the right place to head to: you'll have the chance to visit one-of-a-kind remains dating back to Etruscan and Roman times, as well as many Medieval and Renaissance treasures. Stroll its narrow lanes and visit the many workshops exposing alabaster hand-made products, the main jewel on this town's crown.

San Miniato, Midway between Pisa and Florence

A small little town with a panoramic skyline, San Miniato is perfect for a stop to enjoy the vistas between Pisa and Florence, a taste of the local color, as well as shopping local products like truffles, leather and olive oil.

Day Trips & Tours from Pisa

Here are some of the best day trips & tours to add to your itinerary when Pisa is the base for your holiday vacation in Tuscany. With or without a car, we rate these as your best options to see the landscape, vineyards & adventures in Tuscany.

How to get to the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Tips on moving around Pisa, essentially to get to Piazza dei Miracoli and to the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The Perfect Way to Explore Pisa: Walking Tour with Local Guide

Don't just go to Pisa for the Leaning Tower. Take a bit of time and see the highlights in all of Pisa by joining a small group walking tour that takes you from the central train station to the Square of Miracles, learning of Pisa's history and seeing what the local experience every day. Then feel free to take your time and explore Pisa's main monuments, from its tower and cathedral to baptistery and city walls.

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Pisa Tourist Information and Tourism

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• Country: Italy (Italia)
• Status: city
• Population: 100,000
• Country population: 60 million
• Language: Italian
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Time zone: GMT + 1 hour
• Country dialling code: +39
• Telephone area code: 05
• Religion: mainly Catholic
• Electricity: 220 volts AC, flat two or three pin plugs are used

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Pisa Tourist Information, Hotels and Travel

The famous leaning tower and an attractive town to explore

Pisa boasts one very famous tourist attraction, and several less iconic places of interest. There are cheap flights to Pisa Airport from the UK, making it a convenient destination for a short city break or part of a touring holiday. You can travel on to nearby Florence, tour Tuscany, or spend a pleasant weekend break in Pisa itself.

Pisa Holiday Information

Pisa is a historic town in Tuscany, near the mouth of the Arno river. Once a city of political and cultural importance, Pisa is now most famous for one of its architectural masterpieces, the Leaning Tower.

Travelling through in the 1760s, notoriously critical Tobias Smollett found Pisa a ‘fine old city’ and admired the town’s elegant palaces and ‘majestic solitude’. Modern Pisa – away from the tourist hub – still has a quietness and an air of a town that has seen greater days. A thousand years ago, the naval town ruled a miniature empire, including Corsica, Sardinia and the Balearics. An influential power, Pisa was also the home of mathematician Fibonacci and the celebrated Galileo Galilei. Like Rome, Venice and Amalfi, Pisa’s pride came before its fall, and as rival Genoa conquered the seas, and the Arno silted up, Pisa’s light began to fade.Today Pisa is an important university town, with a population of 100,000, and a major tourist destination. Daytrippers flock in to marvel at the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Pisa’s principal tourist attractions are grouped together in the Campo dei Miracoli, the Field of Miracles. It’s hard to believe the place is real; the tourists flocking around are the only thing that gives the surreal scene a touch of reality. The setting is a flat space, green with lawns, at the edge of the town centre. Here rise the town’s cluster of monuments, all architecturally exquisite, and all leaning at different angles. There is a grand Romanesque cathedral, a large striped baptistry, and, of course, the Leaning Tower. Also in the Campo dei Miracoli, another curious sight is the Campo Santo, the Holy Field. This is a cloistered cemetery, said to have been laid with earth brought back from the Holy Land by the Crusaders. Bombing in the Second World War destroyed some of the works of art that were stored in the surrounding buildings; some frescoes remain, however. In the same area are two museums, the Museo del Duomo (cathedral museum) and the Museo delle Sinopie, which contain art and sculpture from the monuments.

Elsewhere in Pisa you can wander peaceful streets, admire the town’s palazzi and university buildings, shop in the market areas, and admire bridges and churches. Among the most attractive churches are Santa Maria della Spina, a Gothic masterpiece on the banks of the Arno, and the octagonal Sant’Agata. The Museo di San Matteo contains art by local artists and others, including the Pisano family, Fra Angelico and Brueghel. For those with an interest in the Romantic poets, Shelley’s body was brought ashore at Gombo, close to Pisa, and cremated on the beach.

Pisa Tourist Information Office is situated on Via Cammeo, not far from the Leaning Tower. There is another branch just outside the main railway station.

Pisa Travel Information

Pisa Airport is named Galileo Galilei after the town’s most famous citizen, and is little more than a mile outside the town. The airport has its own railway station with trains to Pisa and Florence. City bus number 3 runs from Pisa Airport into the town centre. There is also a coach service into Florence.

Pisa is very accessible from other parts of Italy. The town is on major trainlines connecting with Rome, Florence, Genoa, Milan and Naples.

The main railway station is called Stazione Centrale, and is about twenty minutes walk from the centre. Bus number 1 runs directly from the station to the Campo dei Miracoli.

Pisa Accommodation

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Pisa Travel Guide: 16 Best Things To Do & See

More than just a leaning tower.

You’ve probably heard of a lovely Italian city called Pisa because of its world-famous leaning tower.

And while the Leaning Tower of Pisa is of course the main attraction, Pisa offers much more!

The university city has picturesque squares, awe-inspiring churches, charming streets and the Arno River, gracefully winding its way through Pisa before merging into the Ligurian Sea.

Pisa is an essential stop on any Tuscan itinerary in our humble opinion.

In this travel guide to Pisa, you will find all the best things to do and see in Pisa (in addition to the Leaning Tower) + how many days you should spend in the city, where to stay and much more.

Our favourites: Where to stay in Pisa?

• Luxury: Palazzo Cini Luxury Rooms In Pisa – Boutique hotel with a great location and nice details.
• Value for money: Relais dei Mercanti B&B and Suites – Cosy little place in the old town with excellent reviews.
• Budget: Hotel Caffè Verdi – Comfortable, simple rooms a 15-minute walk from the Leaning Tower. 24-hour reception/café.

Search for the cheapest and best hotels in Pisa here .

Table of contents

How long to stay in Pisa

The 16 best things to do and see in pisa, where to stay in pisa, how to get around pisa, how to get to pisa, when to visit pisa, our best tips for pisa, what to bring to pisa.

Pisa map and geography

Pretty Pisa is located in the region of Tuscany in central Italy.

Just under 100,000 people live here.

How many days you should spend in Pisa depends entirely on your needs and travel plans .

It’s very normal to spend a single day in the city, and we visited Pisa on a day trip from Lucca ourselves.

However, there is more to see than the Leaning Tower of Pisa, so you can easily spend a night or two if you have the time.

We imagine it must be wonderful to walk around the city early in the morning or in the afternoon when all the day-trippers are gone .

If you fly to Pisa before embarking on a longer journey around Tuscany, it’s ideal to start with a night in the city.

Later in this travel guide to Pisa, we write more about the best places to stay (including where to stay on a budget).

Day trips to Pisa

It’s really popular to go on a day trip to Pisa, for example from Lucca , Florence , Livorno , La Spezia (Cinque Terre) or even from Rome .

If you aren’t planning to stay in the city overnight, you can look at some of the day trips to Pisa from other cities below.

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Here are what we believe to be the best things to do and see in Pisa including interesting attractions, sights, landmarks and viewpoints.

• The Leaning Tower of Pisa – The main reason to visit the city
• Piazza dei Miracoli – The Square of Miracles
• Duomo di Pisa – Pisa Cathedral
• Battistero di San Giovanni – The baptistery
• Campo Santo – The Monumental Cemetery
• Walk along the Arno – The river that runs through Pisa
• Santa Maria della Spina – Church by the river
• Piazza dei Cavalieri – The Knights’ Square
• Sant’Antonio Abate – Church with a colourful mural
• Borgo Stretto – Narrow pedestrian street
• Via Corso Italia – Shopping street with lots of shops
• Botanic Garden – A green oasis
• Palazzo Blu – Museum in a blue palace
• Visit a vineyard – Taste local grapes
• Eat gelato – Enjoy real Italian ice cream
• The best day trips from Pisa

Map of the best things to do and see in Pisa .

1. The Leaning Tower of Pisa – The main reason to visit the city

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is an iconic landmark that attracts people from near and far.

The Torre di Pisa (as it is called in Italian) is undoubtedly the main sight in Pisa , and it’s also one of the major highlights of the entire Tuscany region.

And seeing its unique tilt is truly an enjoyable experience.

The free-standing bell tower is famous for its characteristic tilt which it gained due to structural issues encountered during its construction .

Now, exactly because of that tilt, the Leaning Tower of Pisa has become a super popular photo spot , and most days there are a multitude of people posing in silly ways in front of the tower to get the perfect photo.

While admiring the Leaning Tower of Pisa from the outside is free of charge , ascending the tower requires purchasing a ticket – ideally well in advance as the availability is limited and the tickets are issued for specific time slots.

Purchase your ticket to ascend the tower here (adlink) and get a skip-the-line ticket to the cathedral at the same time.

You can also buy a combination ticket (adlink) if you want access to the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa as well as the baptistery, Campo Santo, the two museums and the cathedral.

Read more about what you need to know before visiting the tower in our travel guide to the Leaning Tower of Pisa .

Tip: If you have the opportunity to arrive early or late in the day, you will encounter significantly fewer crowds.

2. Piazza dei Miracoli – The Square of Miracles

The Square of Miracles (known as Piazza dei Miracoli in Italian) is where you’ll find the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Apart from the tilting architectural wonder, there is actually much more to see at the square. Here, you can leisurely wander and capture plenty of photographs at your own pace.

The Square of Miracles holds immense historical and cultural significance for Pisa – and Italy as a whole – and its significance has led to its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List .

Below we write more about the other impressive buildings on the square.

3. Duomo di Pisa – Pisa Cathedral

Every major Italian city has a duomo (meaning cathedral) and the Pisa Cathedral is right beside the Leaning Tower of Pisa .

In fact, the tower was originally intended as a bell tower for the cathedral. However, it has since surpassed the cathedral in fame and recognition.

That doesn’t make the cathedral any less interesting, though.

The Duomo di Pisa is the oldest structure in the Square of Miracles , and you should definitely take the time to admire the beautiful Romanesque facade.

Inside the cathedral, there are paintings, sculptures and frescoes.

Entry to the cathedral is free , but you’ll need an entrance ticket. These are available at the on-site ticket offices and they are valid for a specific time slot.

If you hold tickets for the other attractions on the Square of Miracles, you’re not bound by a designated time slot and can often bypass queues .

This applies to this ticket to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the combination ticket (adlinks) .

4. Battistero di San Giovanni – The baptistery

Often overlooked, we think that the baptistry in the Square of Miracles , Battistero di San Giovanni , is an incredibly beautiful structure in its own right, despite being overshadowed by its towering neighbours.

The impressive round building is positioned in front of the cathedral and with an entrance ticket, you can explore its interior and view the baptism font in the center of the room .

From the top floor, you can also enjoy a unique vantage point overlooking the cathedral, offering a unique perspective on its magnificent facade.

Access to the Battistero di San Giovanni requires buying a ticket . It can either be purchased separately or as a combination ticket (adlink) where you get access to the other attractions on the square, too.

5. Campo Santo – The Monumental Cemetery

Campo Santo , also known as Camposanto Monumentale (which translates to the Monumental Cemetery), is an oblong building in Gothic style consisting of three chapels, sculptures and frescoes on the walls .

Although it may not be the most eye-catching attraction at The Square of Miracles, the historic cemetery is still worth stopping by.

Like the baptistery, Campo Santo requires a ticket. You can buy a separate ticket for the cemetery or a combination ticket (adlink) with access to several of the attractions on the Square of Miracles.

6. Walk along the Arno – The river that runs through Pisa

The Arno River is a long waterway that runs through the Tuscan countryside (including the city of Florence ) before eventually reaching its destination at Pisa, where it meets the sea.

The river has had a significant role in shaping Pisa’s history and culture – especially in the city’s trade and transport networks.

And it makes Pisa so much more charming!

We enjoyed a relaxing, romantic stroll along the riverbank and we highly recommend setting aside time for a similar experience.

You can also consider crossing the bridge Ponte di Mezzo for a picturesque view of the Arno.

7. Santa Maria della Spina – Church by the river

As you stroll along the Arno, make sure to stop by the Gothic church of Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina , situated along the riverbank.

Despite its modest size, the church boasts exquisite details and decorations – and the location is truly unique .

Legend has it that the church once safeguarded a thorn from Jesus’ crown of thorns … We can only guess whether it’s true or not, but the tale has drawn pilgrims to its doors over the centuries.

8. Piazza dei Cavalieri – The Knights’ Square

The Knights’ Square ( Piazza dei Cavalieri ) is a spacious square just a 10-minute stroll from the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The square is distinguished by the Palazzo dei Cavalieri (also known as the Palazzo della Carovana ).

The palace dates back to the middle of the 16th century and was originally used as the headquarters of a Roman Catholic Tuscan military order.

Today, it serves as the main building of the University of Pisa Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa .

Within Piazza dei Cavalieri, you’ll also discover the churches of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri and San Rocco next to several other impressive buildings. Don’t miss the striking statue of Cosimo I , who held the titles of Duke of Florence and later Grand Duke of Tuscany.

9. Sant’Antonio Abate – Church with a colourful mural

Near Pisa’s Central Station stands a church renowned for its distinctive rear wall .

Chiesa di Sant’Antonio Abate features a striking modern mural titled “Tuttomondo” adorning its wall.

This public artwork, created by American artist Keith Haring, is a rare sight within a traditional church setting which is why we found it interesting to see.

While it’s not one of the top things to do in Pisa, we still wanted to include it in our travel guide. Stop by if you find yourself with plenty of time in Pisa.

10. Borgo Stretto – Narrow pedestrian street

Located between Piazza dei Cavalieri and the Ponte di Mezzo bridge crossing the Arno River, you will find Pisa’s cosy pedestrian street , Borgo Stretto.

This narrow shopping street offers a pleasant ambience for leisurely strolls with lots of terracotta-coloured houses , quaint shops and, of course, Italian cafes where you can savour a quick espresso or indulge in other drinks and snacks.

11. Via Corso Italia – Shopping street with lots of shops

Across the Ponte di Mezzo lies the primary shopping street, perfect for a stroll if you find yourself south of the river.

Via Corsa Italia stretches all the way to Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II (where you’ll find the Sant’Antonio Abate church with the mural), thus connecting the Central Station with the historic city centre.

Along the shopping street, you’ll discover souvenir shops , upscale design boutiques and prominent retailers .

And of course, there’s no shortage of restaurants, cafes and gelaterias.

12. Botanical Garden – A green oasis

Pisa’s botanical garden, Orto Botanico di Pisa , is right in the middle of the city only a few minutes south of the Leaning Tower.

The University of Pisa is responsible for maintaining the old garden. Within this green sanctuary, you’ll discover a botanical school, tranquil lakes, greenhouses and a diverse array of exquisite trees, flowers and herbs.

A serene haven for nature enthusiasts or those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

The admission fee for adults is 4 euros in 2024 (~ 4.3 USD). On the first Sunday of the month, the entry is free for all.

Read more about the botanical garden on their official website .

13. Palazzo Blu – Museum in a blue palace

Palazzo Blu is located on the southern side of the Arno River between the Church of Santa Maria della Spina and the Ponte di Mezzo bridge.

As the name suggests, it’s a blue palace that stands out from Pisa’s earth-coloured houses with its dusty light blue colour.

The palace serves as a museum and has both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

The entry price for adults is 5 euros in 2024 (~ 5.4 USD) but there are reduced prices for groups and families.

Read more about the museum on their official website .

14. Visit a winery – Taste local grapes

For wine enthusiasts, the region boasts numerous wineries open for tastings of the local grapes.

Usually, these tours include a visit to the vineyards and the cellars where you get a glimpse into the winemaking process.

Afterwards, you get to indulge in a wine tasting accompanied by insights into each wine’s unique qualities – all while soaking in the scenic vistas of the Tuscan countryside.

The wine tours come in various durations, levels of privacy and price ranges. Read more about each tour by clicking on the options below.

15. Eat gelato – Enjoy real Italian ice cream

We can’t make a guide to an Italian city without mentioning gelato .

You’ll find excellent gelato shops almost everywhere, offering creamy Italian ice cream that (in our opinion) surpasses the taste of regular ice cream.

16. The best day trips from Pisa

Within a relatively short distance of Pisa, you can visit a multitude of small and large cities, all of which offer staggering amounts of history, art and, not least, fantastic food.

Here are the most prominent cities to consider for day trips from Pisa:

• Lucca . In just 30 minutes by train or car, you can reach the charming medieval city of Lucca known for its intact ancient city wall.
• Florence . It’s just under an hour by train to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
• Cinque Terre . Drive to La Spezia in approximately 1 hour by car or train and use local transport to get to the famous five colourful cities.
• Siena . It takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes by train (or 1 hour and 45 minutes by car), and then you are in one of Tuscany’s absolute prettiest cities.

Map of the best things to do and see in Pisa

Here is a map of all the mentioned experiences and sights in Pisa.

Pisa is a relatively compact city and proximity to the Leaning Tower and the Square of Miracles are key considerations for most visitors – as well as access to train or plane connections for those not driving around Tuscany.

The city offers a wide range of mid-range hotels providing excellent value for money. Additionally, we’ve curated a selection of hotels offering a slightly higher standard along with two budget-friendly options .

We have written a travel guide to the best hotels in Pisa , where we share more photos and write about each hotel.

Here’s an overview of the best hotels in Pisa.

• Luxury: Bagni di Pisa Palace & Thermal Spa – 5-star palace with spa and natural hot springs just outside Pisa.
• Value for money: Hotel Bologna – Splendid mid-range hotel with everything you need and solid breakfast.
• Budget: My Way – One of Pisa’s cheaper hotels within walking distance to both the airport and the train. The Leaning Tower is a 40-minute walk away. A solid option.

Pisa can easily be explored on foot or by bike .

The city is relatively small with nearly all the sights and attractions conveniently located within walking distance of each other.

If you drive through Italy, you can easily get to Pisa via one of the motorways that pass by the city.

A car is unnecessary in Pisa so you can park it at your hotel or in one of the many parking lots, typically charging a fixed rate per hour or day.

If you’re fortunate, you may find a white parking spot on the street – those are free. In some cases, you may still need to display a parking disc or indicate the parking duration on a piece of paper on the windshield.

Paid parking spaces are marked in blue , while yellow spaces are reserved for special vehicles and should be avoided.

Public car parks

Search for “parking” or “parcheggio” on Google Maps and make sure to read the reviews of the parking lot.

Prices typically vary from 50 cents to 3 euros per hour. Some of them only take coins.

Be aware that there have been incidents of car break-ins in several of the parking lots. It’s advisable not to leave any valuables in your car , even if you’re stopping in Pisa briefly on your way from one city to another. Also if you’re only planning to be away for an hour or two.

Watch out for ZTL

Note that most streets in the historic part of Pisa are designated as a “zona a traffico limitato” (ZTL) , meaning it’s a restricted traffic area with specific regulations for driving and parking.

However, access is typically permitted for bicycles, electric cars, motorcycles, and scooters.

Surveillance cameras are in place, and hefty fines can be incurred for violating the regulations.

If your hotel is located within the ZTL, we recommend contacting them in advance if you plan to drive there.

Public transport

It’s easy to get to Pisa by train whether it’s on a day trip or you’re staying in the city for a few days.

Pisa’s Central Station Pisa Centrale is located south of the centre.

From there, it takes 25-30 minutes to walk to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Square of Miracles, passing several other interesting sights in Pisa on the way.

The train station, Pisa San Rossore , is even closer, with only a fifteen-minute walk to the square and the tower.

If you visit Pisa on a day trip, you can consider arriving at one train station and departing from the other.

The train stations are connected to several cities in the region, for example, Lucca , Livorno , Florence and Siena .

We took the train from Lucca when we visited Pisa.

Flights to Pisa

If you don’t drive to Pisa, you can fly directly to Pisa International Airport (PSA), also known as Galileo Galilei .

From the airport, it only takes 7 minutes by train to the Central Station.

Search for flights to Pisa on Momondo here ( adlink ).

Due to the iconic Leaning Tower, Pisa attracts tourists year-round.

The high season is in July and August when Italians, Europeans and much of the rest of the world enjoy their summer holidays.

July and August are also the hottest months , so if you have the flexibility to plan your trip to Pisa outside of this period, we strongly recommend doing so.

May, June, September and October are good shoulder months with great weather and fewer crowds, although it is always busy in Tuscany after all.

December, January and February are the coldest months (like many other places in Europe).

It rains the most in September, October, November and December.

• Book a ticket in advance (adlink) if you want to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa. A limited number of tickets are available each day, and visitors are assigned a specific time slot to ascend the tower.
• Buy a combination ticket (adlink) to save money if you plan to visit all the buildings on the Square of Miracles. With this ticket, you’ll also enjoy the perk of skipping the queues.
• Come early if you want to experience the Leaning Tower (and the rest of Pisa) without too many crowds. Alternatively, you can wait until the end of the day, when most day-trippers have gone home.
• Many restaurants close for siesta between lunch and dinner, so keep an eye on the opening hours if you want to eat at a particular restaurant or café during the day.
• Expect an additional charge on the restaurant bill . Most restaurants add a “coperto” per guest, which is a fee per person regardless of your order. It is typically between 1 and 3 euros, which you pay in addition to the price of the food. It’s common to receive a small bread basket with butter or olive oil and balsamic vinegar as a starter.
• Take care of your belongings . Like many tourist destinations, there is a risk of opportunistic pickpockets. Additionally, car break-ins are not uncommon. If you’re driving to Pisa, it’s advisable not to leave any valuables in your car to minimise the risk.

• Travel insurance (adlink) . Never travel without it!
• A good camera – here’s a guide to the gear we use .
• Sunscreen . Especially if you visit Pisa in the summer. We recommend an organic, vegan sunscreen without oxybenzone and other harmful chemicals.
• Sneakers or other types of shoes you can walk in comfortably.
• A refillable water bottle .

Sustainable travel tips

To travel as sustainably as possible, we recommend the following:

• Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle.
• Avoid disposable plastics .
• Sort your waste correctly and do not throw it on the ground.

Thank you for reading

Thank you for reading our travel guide to Pisa. We hope it has been helpful!

What do you think of the sights and things to do in Pisa?

Don’t hesitate to ask us anything in the comments below if you haven’t been to Pisa yet. We are happy to help.

And if you’ve already visited the Leaning Tower, it would be great to hear your best tips and tricks on what to do and see when in Pisa.

Our favourite travel resources:

• Booking.com for cheap hotels.
• Momondo for the best flight deals.
• SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .

Our camera gear:

• Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
• DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
• Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
• See all of our camera gear here .

Related articles:

• Florence Travel Guide: 16 Best Things To Do & See - Everything you need to know about Florence in Tuscany, including what to do & our top tips
• Review of Vegan Agrivilla I Pini: A Sustainable and Holistic Farmstay in Tuscany - We review our stay at Vegan Agrivilla I Pini, Tuscany, Italy
• Review of Paradiso Pure.Living: Vegan-friendly luxury in Seiser Alm / Alpe di Siusi - We review our stay at Paradiso Pure.Living in the Dolomites, South Tyrol, Northern Italy
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Pisa travel guide — the fullest pisa tourist guide & pisa travel blog for first-timers.

Pisa is one of Italy’s most famous tourist cities. The Leaning Tower of Pisa located in the city of Pisa, Tuscany Region, Italy is a tourist attraction that attracts millions of visitors every year. Travelers usually only come to Pisa to visit this symbol leaning tower and take pictures and then leaving. However, Pisa has much more interesting things than that. The Pisa travel guide is shared below will help visitors gather enough tourist information to have a great budget trip in Pisa in general and the leaning tower of Pisa in particular. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Pisa for the first-time? Let’s check out our Pisa travel blog with the fullest Pisa travel guide (Pisa Italy travel guide, Pisa tourist guide, Pisa guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do… as well as suggested Pisa itinerary for 1 day to find out the answer!

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Pisa travel guide: Overview of Pisa

This beautiful city of Pisa is located in the province of Pisa, in the Italian region of Tuscany. The city is located on the banks of the Arno River just before it empties into the Ligurian Sea. The city of Pisa was once a Roman port. At the beginning of the 15th century, Pisa was occupied by the Florence people, so this place was strongly influenced by the Renaissance art and culture which was originated from Florence. The city was heavily damaged during World War II with more than 53 times of bombing. More than half of the area of ​​downtown Pisa was completely destroyed, but with the spirit of perseverance, the people rebuilt the city just a few decades later.

The city of Pisa was a navy base and an important trading port in many centuries ago. Its heyday was around the 10th century when it was a maritime region, considered one of the four mainly maritime states in history of Italy.

Pisa travel guide: When should I visit Pisa?

Depending on the characteristics of each season, the leaning tower will give you different feelings and scenes. From March to June, the weather is very pleasant and cool. This is the best time to visit Pisa and admire the tower at its most beautiful angles.

From June to September the temperature will be higher. The weather will be hot and dry, but there are many other outdoor activities that you could take part in.

From September to December, the temperature drops to low when autumn comes. At this time, the scene will be changed in color, creating a very poetic scene.

From about December to March next year is winter. The scenery will be covered in white snow. This is also a good time you should come and see the famous leaning tower of Pisa.

Pisa Italy travel guide: Is Pisa safe to travel?

Pisa is quite safe to travel as well as visit. However, the biggest problem for tourists when visiting this area is pickpocketing and petty theft. Pickpocketing happens every day here, especially around the leaning tower of Pisa. Documents related to money, passports, airline tickets should have copies and be kept carefully.

Pisa travel guide: How to get to Pisa?

Because it is a popular tourist destination, there are many ways to get to Pisa.

Pisa International Airport, also known as Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA) , which connects flights to and from Pisa. Visitors usually do not visit Pisa first during their visits in Italy but will visit somewhere such as Rome, Florence, Positano, Cinque Terre and then get to Pisa later (usually Florence because of the close distance), so visitors often take domestic flights within Italy.

There are two main stations in Pisa: San Rossore Station and Pisa Central Station (Pisa Centrale railway station). Trains to Pisa depart from Florence, Rome, Genoa, etc., very convenient for tourists to travel.

The city of Florence is about 82km from Pisa. So you can travel by train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella railway station in 1 hour for a fare of 16 euros. Then you can reach the leaning tower by taxi, bus, horse-drawn carriage or walking depending on your budget.

If you depart from Cinque Terre, take the train from La Spezia Centrale Station to Pisa Centrale station for 1 hour of riding, then buy a bus ticket to the Pisa or Torre area.

You can buy online tickets at the homepage of Trenitalia – the largest train liner in Italy. I found that if traveling time less 1 hour, the ticket price is not much different than buying online early. So if you getting from Florence to Pisa or from Cinque Terre to Pisa, you can buy tickets at the Trenitalia’s ticket vending machines or buy at the ticket offices at the stations for convenience, without having to buy online in advance.

Getting from railway stations to the Leaning Tower of Pisa

You find Stazione 1 station and stop at Torre 1 station, then getting to the leaning tower of Pisa by bus. Bus ticket price is €1.5 and it takes about 10 minutes. Tickets are purchased at the small grocery store located in the station near the entrance. Exit the station gate and you will immediately see the bus stops. If you want to take a taxi, it only takes about 5 minutes and costs about €10-13. It takes about 25 minutes on foot to get there.

Note: The above bus ticket is valid for 75 minutes. If you come to Pisa with main purpose to take check-in photos of the Leaning Tower and not buy tickets to visit inside, you can use this ticket for the return trip. In fact, the day I went, I saw many tourists get on the bus from this bus stop to return to the railway station, so the bus driver could not control it. Whether if you have a ticket or not, no one knows because it’s too crowded.

Most visitors choose to walk from the station to the leaning tower in about 25 minutes. On the way you will also discover famous places such as Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, Viale Antonio Gramsci Street and Ponte Solferino bridge.

There are many bus routes connecting major cities in Italy with Pisa. Currently, there are three main bus liners including Autolinee Lazzi, CPT (Compagnia Pisana Trasporti), CLAP. Pisa’s main bus station is located in the area of ​​Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II.

Visitors can also rent a self-driving car to travel to Pisa or buy a day tour to get to Pisa from Florence or Cinque Terre. See more here .

• Pisa Half Day Tour from Florence

Pisa travel blog: Transportation in Pisa

Pisa is a small city, so the distance between the main attractions here is quite short, visitors can choose the means of transportation here as follows:

• Bus: Small buses operating in Pisa can help visitors traveling around Pisa easily and economically. Buy tickets right on the bus.
• Taxi: Taxis in Italy are not cheap at all and neither is Pisa. If not needed, you might not to take it.
• Bicycles: Some hotels in Pisa offer bicycle rentals. There is also a bike rental service called Cicopli in Pisa (like those in Taiwan or China).
• On foot: As shared above, Pisa is a rather small city, the distance between attractions is not far, so walking is the most economical and also the simplest way.

Pisa tourist guide: Where to go and what to do?

In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa has many other great places to explore and take pictures. The most prominent ones are the four religious buildings at the Duomo Square (Cathedral Square or Piazza dei Miracoli, Square of Miracles). These monumental and massive structures include the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Baptistery of Pisa, the Cathedral of Pisa, and the Campo Santo (Monumental Cemetery)… Visiting here you will get an unforgettable historical experience. Don’t come just because of the leaning tower of Pisa but forget these surrounding historic structures.

• Pisa Cathedral Guided Tour with Leaning Tower Admission Ticket

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Leaning Tower of Pisa is the symbol and also the most attractive attraction in Pisa. The Leaning Tower of Pisa was originally the bell tower of the church, built in 1173. This work was built in 2 centuries and completed in 1372. Due to errors in the design and construction process, the 8-storey tower is leaned at an angle of 5.5 degrees. It accidentally forms the highlight of this architectural work. Not only considered a symbol of Italy, the leaning tower of Pisa is also recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

• Pisa Tour with Wine Tasting Experience and Leaning Tower Skip the Line Ticket

The tower is 55.86m high, including 8 floors connected by round pillars made of white marble. On the 1st floor, there are many sculptural decorations and the 8th floor is designed as the top of the bell. The tower body is gradually reduced, the foot is 19.6m in diameter and the top is 12.7m.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa still stands with at an incredible leaning angle of 5.5 degrees. Before being restored at the end of the 20th century, the leaning angle of the tower was almost twice this number. Although the foundation is quite soft, the tower is still standing, so you can rest assured to climb the steps to its top to have a panoramic view of this beautiful city of Pisa.

• Leaning Tower of Pisa Skip-the-Line Ticket

You should leave bulky luggage at the entrance because the stairs are very narrow. Ticket price is €18 to climb to the top of the tower, online skip the line ticket is €28. Very long queue, taking photos also has to queue, so climbing to the top is no exception. If you want to take photos with less people in background, you should not take a photo right at the entrance gate, but take a walk around to the opposite side, there will be less people.

Buy a Pisa skip the line ticket online for only €20 here .

Camposanto Monumentale di Pisa (Monumental Cemetery of Pisa)

The Camposanto Cemetery was begun in 1278 and was only completed in 1464. Therefore, it’s the youngest of the four structures located on the Duomo square, although the 84 Roman sarcophagi here date from the 3rd century. Although it is a cemetery, I feel it’s like a historical architecture.

Although this place was massively damaged in the American bombing raid in 1944. The famous mural and fresco masterpieces were all restored after World War II. You should not miss this place when coming to Pisa.

Among the most famous tombs here, the most famous one is the tomb of the great mathematician Fibonacci. More or less, it is clear that the Fibonacci sequence – this classic series of numbers in mathematics has been a name attached to our school days for a long time, isn’t it? Today this sequence of numbers is one of the most amazing mathematical proofs applied in many fields such as art, biology, architecture, music and even finance, securities, forex. The Camposanto Cemetery will easily retain visitors by its quiet and tranquil.

Cathedral of Pisa

The focal point of Pisa’s Miracoli Square is the Cathedral of Pisa (Duomo di Pisa) along with the Leaning Tower of Pisa are among the most photographed structures in Italy. The church was designed by the Italian Architect Buscheto and in his honor after his death his body was buried in the false arch of the marble façade.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the most recognizable and most famous building in the central square of the Duomo. However, Cathedral of Pisa is the largest structure here. The Cathedral of Pisa is impressive by its elegant multi-storey façade and elaborately decorated interior with splendid mosaics.

The Pisa Baptistery of St. John

The last building of the four most famous architectural works is the Baptistery of Pisa. This is considered a masterpiece of Roman Catholic architecture. Construction began in the 12th century and took two centuries to complete. Because it was built on the same ground as the leaning tower of Pisa, this church is also slightly leaned. The massive building is now the largest baptistery in Italy and also the most important religious building of the city.

• Baptistery, Sinopie Museum, Cathedral, and Monumental Cemetery Ticket in Pisa

Book tickets online to access the baptistery of Pisa, the museum, the memorial cemetery and the cathedral of Pisa for only €9 here .

You should buy tickets online in advance and this ticket is also skip the line ticket to avoid long queues. These places are as crowded as the leaning tower of Pisa, but the combo to access all places is only €9, so I find it very cheap.

Museo di San Matteo

The next place you should visit is the Museo di San Matteo museum. There are many famous works of art on display and regularly exhibitions of Tuscan Renaissance art are held for visitors.

Address: Piazza San Matteo In Soarta, 1, 56127 Pisa PI, Italy Hours: 8:30AM–7PM/Monday: Closed

Orto e Museo Botanico Botanical Garden

This is the first botanical garden in Europe, founded in 1544 by the famous botanist Luca Ghini. It consists of many areas including: gardens, ponds, greenhouses,…

Address: Via Luca Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy (Other address: Via Roma 54, Pisa) Opening hours: 9AM-5PM (October 1 to March 31) / 8:30AM-8PM (April 1 to September 30) Website: www.sma.unipi.it/it/orto-e-museo-botanico

Knights’ Square (Piazza dei Cavalieri)

Considered the center of the city of Pisa. Standing at the square, visitors will easily see the beautiful Palace of della Carovana and the church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri.

Address: P.za dei Cavalieri, 1, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy Opening hours: 24/24

Palazzo Blu Museum

It’s a place to store works of art. Palazzo Blu is a small palace built in the 14th century, now converted into a museum. It houses works of art by Italian artists. It is also home to regular art exhibitions.

Address: Lungarno Gambacorti, 9, 56125 Pisa PI, Italy Hours: 10AM–8PM Website: palazzoblu.it

Church of Santa Maria della Spina

The Church of the Virgin Mary Santa Maria della Spina was built in the 14th century in the Pisan Gothic style. This is a small church, located on the bank of Arno River, but with unique architecture and historical significance, this is a tourist attraction.

Address: Lungarno Gambacorti, 56125 Pisa PI, Italy Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 10am to 6pm (lunch break 1:30pm – 2:30pm)/ Saturday, Sunday: 10am to 7pm (lunch break 1:30pm – 2:30pm)

Lungarnos is an area that runs along the Arno River in Pisa. Walking along here, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the peace of Pisa, looking the beautiful palaces, romantic bridges, …

Address: River Arno, Pisa

Pisan Hills

It is not located in Pisa but not far from Pisa. This is the famous wine route of Tuscany. Visitors can rent a vespa to run along this road, seeing the vineyards and can stop anywhere they want. Enjoying the local food and wine is a very poetic experience.

Address: Chianti, Tuscany Website: www.stradadelvinocollinepisane.it

Take a day trip to Lucca

Lucca is a beautiful little city, just 25 minutes by train from the leaning tower of Pisa. Walk or cycling along the roads, explore the Medieval and Renaissance buildings in the center and breathe in the atmosphere of the city are best things to do here.

Pisa Italy travel guide: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to..

• Bologna Hotel Pisa ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel San Ranieri ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• NH Pisa ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Alessandro della Spina ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Affittacamere Delfo ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Pisa Tower ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top rated and best Pisa hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Pisa travel guide: What and where to eat in Pisa?

Cafes and restaurants around the leaning tower of Pisa are very rich and diverse. I think the food prices here are pretty good. A meal costs around €8-15. View overlooking the square and leaning tower of Pisa.

Below are some good cafes and restaurants you can drop by to try:

• Oro Gelateria : Super delicious gelato (ice-cream). The best one you can find in Pisa.
• Osteria La Mescita Pisa : The best for wine tasting and delectable food.
• Gusto Giusto : Listen the suggestions from the restaurant owner Gianni for your meal.

Pisa tourist guide: Suggested itinerary to visit Pisa in 1 day

• 8AM – 9:30AM: Breakfast, then getting to Pisa.
• 9:30AM – 10:30PM: Visit the leaning tower of Pisa

It is one of the main sightseeing spots in the Duomo square (Piazza del Duomo), and is the most attractive attraction. If you intend to climb the tower, you need to buy tickets in advance because the number of tickets to access the top of the tower are limited each day.

• 10:30AM – 11PM: Visit the baptistery (Pisa Baptistery)
• 11AM – 11:30AM: Visit Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Pisa)
• 11:30AM – 12AM: Visit Camposanto Cemetery
• 12PM – 2PM: Have lunch, resting
• 2PM – 2:30PM: Visit Knights Square (Piazza dei Cavalieri) in the center of Pisa city.
• 2:30PM – 3PM: Stop by Gelateria L’Angolo d’Oro to enjoy its famous ice cream.
• 3PM – 4PM: Visit Palazzo Blu – formerly a palace, now a museum.
• 4:10PM – 4:20PM: Visit the Church of Santa Maria della Spina
• 16:30PM: Visit and shop at Corso Italia Street
• 5PM: Return to the departure point (station) or move to the next destination or return to the hotel.

Pisa travel blog: Before you go

• To visit and take pictures comfortably you have to spend 18 euros.
• It is not recommended to visit Pisa in summer.
• You only can visit the inside of the leaning tower within 30 minutes.
• The number of people specified for a visit is 30 people.
• Children under 8 years old are not allowed inside.
• Children 8 to 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
• When entering the tower to visit, only cameras and camcorders are allowed.
• If you do not intend to go inside the buildings, it only takes about 2-3 hours is enough for a visit. However, if you want to go inside, you have to queue for a long time. One day is not sure to visit all of 4 spots.
• Beware of pickpockets in Pisa.
• Pisa station is a transit hub for many other Italian cities, so it’s very crowded. You should be careful when taking the train here.
• Souvenirs here are also cheap compared to other Italian tourist cities like Florence or Milan. So if you intend to buy souvenirs in Italy, you should buy them here.

Pisa travel guide: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Pisa you can refer to

• Florence and Pisa Day Tour from Rome
• Pisa and Cinque Terre Guided Day Trip from Florence or Pisa
• Private Day Tour of Siena, San Gimignano and Pisa (from Florence)

Are you looking for more top things to do in Pisa: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Italy travel guide here .

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Pisa Tourist Information

What to see and where to stay in pisa, italy..

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Stunning and Leaning Pisa

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Pisan Lungarnos

Walk along lungarnos and enjoy our river...but no dive!

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Useful information about how to get to Pisa, transfer services from and to the airport and local public transportation.

Pisa and Its Lungarnos

Arno is the river which crosses the whole city of Pisa , as well as Florence. Italians call "lungarno" those streets which pass beside the river bank. The lungarnos of Pisa, with splendid buildings and palaces that rise upon them together with romantic bridges represent some of the most famous and characteristic places of Pisa. Thanks to the central position of the river, lungarnos were convenient for the edification of hotels. Their centered location make these hotels an ideal place to stay for tourists that come to visit Pisa. We suggest you to take a walk through these beautiful streets from where you can admire the panoramic view over the river and its surroundings. You should definitely try Pisa's tasty ice-cream or the local sweets that you can find in the fantastic cake shops situated on the lungarnos.

Pisa, city of Science, Art and Passion

Pisa hosts one of the oldest universities in Europe, considered as one of the most prestigious in Italy. Offering courses in Science and Humanistic fields, the university of Pisa attracts students from Italy and all over the world.

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We collect a wide variety of activities in order to help you orienting between Pisa attractions

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If you miss something, here's a list may help you feeling like home

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Curiosities about Pisa How many leaning towers are there in Pisa? Where is the last Keith Haring mural?

Discover Pisa and its surroundings with our tours We offer private walking tours in Pisa Excursions to Florence, 5 Terre, Siena, Lucca and more

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Self-guided Walking Tour of Pisa (with Maps!)

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Pisa is one of the most renowned cities in Tuscany, and its proximity to Florence, less than an hour away, makes it a must-visit destination on any Italian itinerary. While the city is famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, there is much more to explore and discover in this charming city.

The Leaning Tower, undoubtedly a fascinating architectural wonder, is just one part of a vast religious complex. Standing proudly alongside the tower, you’ll find an impressive cathedral and baptistery. The cathedral, with its intricate design and artistic treasures, is a magnificent example of medieval architecture and craftsmanship. The baptistery, with its striking dome and ornate details, is another captivating gem that should not be missed.

Exploring this religious complex offers visitors a deeper understanding of Pisa’s historical and artistic significance. Beyond the iconic Leaning Tower, you’ll find a rich tapestry of culture and heritage waiting to be uncovered in the heart of this beautiful Italian city.

Getting to Pisa by train: It is most convenient to arrive at Pisa   by a train on your day trip to Pisa. You can catch a train from Florence or other nearby cities, which will arrive at the  Pisa Centrale , the train station.

Getting to Pisa by Car: The main concern if driving into Pisa is to avoid the ZTL! It’s a restricted driving area with enforcement cameras and they will fine you. Via Paparelli is located outside the city walls, it’s totally free all week long, except for Wednesday and Saturday when the square houses the weekly market. €1 an hour when the machine is working!

Logge dei Banchi

Outside the station, the first thing you see is Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, the administrative core of the city: this is an amphitheatre-shaped square surrounded by a circular, fully-pedestrian open gallery full of shops where several historical buildings look onto.

Cross the square and head onto Corso Italia. As one of the main shopping pedestrian streets, Corso Italia was built along a Roman road – Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo are the other main shopping streets.

Walk down Corso Italia until you come to the Logge dei Banchi.

The Logge dei Banchi, designed by architect Bernardo Buontalenti and built between 1603 and 1605, served as a marketplace for the wool and silk trades. The name “Logge dei Banchi” refers to the market stalls (“banchi” in Italian) that were set up in the loggia. Today, the loggia is still occasionally used for various markets and events.

Originally, the loggia had a square base with twelve pillars supporting a lower floor. In the early 18th century, the floor was raised, and a volute pediment adorned the structure. However, in 1814, the volutes were removed, and the upper floor was further enhanced with a triangular pediment. The loggia was connected to Palazzo Gambacorti via an overpass.

In 1925, a day hotel belonging to the Cobianchi chain was constructed by excavating the basement of the Logge. Today, this space has been converted into public toilets, which were reopened and restored in 2012.

Since 1865, the State Archive of Pisa has been housed in the Logge dei Banchi. The loggia, with its distinctive profile, is one of the most recognizable elements of the views along the riversides of Pisa, especially when seen alongside the clock tower. It remains an important historical and architectural landmark, adding to the charm and character of the city’s urban landscape.

Palazzo Blu (Blue Palace)

Don’t cross the Arno just yet and head to your right onto the Lungarno Galilei: the “lungarni” are the roads that run along the Arno river, both in Pisa and in Florence, and are important streets for both residents and visitors alike. Many splendid buildings dating back to the Renaissance period and the Middle Ages still grace the riverfront, including numerous hotels. Remarkably, these buildings survived the bombings during WWII.

The Blue Palace, located on the banks of the River Arno, has a rich history dating back to the 11th century. Parts of the palace were built in the 16th century, and over the centuries, it has been owned by various famous and influential families.

During the 19th century, the palace underwent significant renovations, and a wing was added to create a symmetrical design. It was during this time that the iconic blue color was applied to the facade, giving the palace its name. The interior of the Blue Palace is adorned with lavish embellishments typical of the 19th-century aristocratic style.

Today, the Blue Palace houses the Museum of Art and Culture in Pisa. The museum’s collection boasts over 300 works of art, spanning from the 14th to the 20th centuries. Visitors can admire pieces by renowned artists such as Nino Pisano, Cecco di Pietro, and Benozzo Gozzoli.

In addition to its impressive art collection, the museum also showcases archaeological records from Pisa’s rich history, including artifacts from the Etruscan, Roman, and Hellenistic eras. On the ground floor, visitors can even see the remains of a road dating back to the 12th or 13th centuries.

The Blue Palace is not only a treasure trove of art and history but also a venue for temporary exhibitions on various captivating themes. These exhibitions may delve into topics as diverse as space exploration or the iconic literary work, Dante’s Inferno.

For those with an interest in art, history, and culture, a visit to the Blue Palace and its Museum of Art and Culture is a must while exploring the city of Pisa.

Santo Sepolcro

Head back the way you came with the River Arno on you left. Walk past the Ponte di Mezzo and the unique San Sepolcro church, an octagonal building built as a refuge, a hospital and a monastery, dedicated to the Knights Templar is on your right.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Pisa, also known as San Sepolcro, holds an intriguing history and unique architectural design. It was first mentioned in a document dating back to 1138 and was associated with the Knights Hospitaller, a lay military religious order responsible for protecting the faith and caring for the sick and the poor.

The church’s octagonal shape, though unusual, was a common architectural style during the time of the Crusades. Many churches across Europe were modelled after the “real” Saint Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the mausoleum built by Emperor Constantine in 336 to mark the burial place of Jesus. The octagonal shape is not only a tribute to the original tomb but also carries spiritual significance. In Christian symbolism, the number eight represents resurrection, while the round shape symbolizes God’s infinite nature.

This unique church stands as a testament to Pisa’s ancient connection with the Holy Land and serves as a reminder of the historical and religious importance of the Crusades era. Its design and history make it a significant and intriguing site for visitors to explore and appreciate.

National Museum of San Matteo

Carry on walking along the Lungarno Galileo Galilei and cross over Ponte della Fortezza. Turn left and walk along the River Arno until you reach National Museum of San Matteo.

The museum is located in the old Benedictine convent of S. Matteo in Soarta, which dates back to the 11th century. The convent has undergone various alterations and restorations over the centuries, resulting in very little remaining of the original structure, except for the church and a few pieces of medieval wall.

The late medieval cloisters, built with brick and featuring double mullions and columns with original capitals, are on the upper floor. These cloisters were largely restructured in the 16th century, along with other parts of the building that are not accessible to the public. In the early 19th century, a Chapter of Canonesses was installed in the convent, and a neoclassical entry was likely added during this time. Between 1866 and 1940, the building served as a town remand home, which required significant structural adaptations.

After the Second World War, the transformation into a museum and restoration of the building took place. The National S. Matteo Museum was established in 1949, thanks to Piero Sanpaolesi, with a focus on the aesthetic quality of the artworks on display. Later, the decision was made to group the exhibits by type and reunite the original ensembles.

The museum houses the largest collection of works of art in Pisa. Notable items include a remarkable collection of medieval pottery, including ceramic basins from around the Mediterranean and medieval and modern crockery found during excavations in Pisa (Tongiorgi collection). There are also precious jewels and a selection of medieval coins and seals from the Franceschi and Supino collections.

The museum’s collection of illuminated codices is impressive, with examples from the 12th to the 14th centuries, known for their rich illuminations. The museum also features stone statues dating from the Middle Ages to the 16th century, including fine examples of Romanesque sculpture and masterpieces by Nicola Pisano and Donatello.

Furthermore, the museum showcases a collection of wooden sculptures and paintings, comprising over two hundred works from the early 1200s to the modern age. These pieces were created by significant artists such as Giunta Pisano, Berlinghiero, Simone Martini, and Masaccio, among others. The museum’s diverse collection makes it a significant cultural and historical treasure in Pisa.

Borgo Stretto (Narrow Street)

Leaving the National Museum of San Matteo you continue along the river. the next building is the Palazzo Medici . On an 11th century structure, it takes on the form of a royal palace in the 13th century. The former Palazzo Appiano (original name) was acquired in 1446 by the Medici family. For some time now, the palace has been home to the seat of the Prefecture of Pisa.

Carry on along the river until you reach the Ponte di Mezzo, then turn right into Borgo Stretto (Narrow Street).

If you’re in the mood for shopping or simply want to explore the charming medieval streets of Pisa, Narrow Street is the place to be. This long street is mostly pedestrianized and teeming with shops offering a diverse range of products, from books and souvenirs to high-end boutiques.

As you walk down Narrow Street, you’ll notice its unique architecture, with arcades lining each side, supported by Corinthian columns. These arcades provide a sheltered and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect place to find not only shops but also numerous bars and restaurants to take a break and enjoy some refreshments. The buildings along this street were once the homes of wealthy merchant families, and their two and three-story houses still exude a sense of grandeur and history. Don’t miss the 15th-century Poschi Palace, located on the corner of via San Francesco, a remarkable landmark in itself.

One must-visit spot on Narrow Street is Café Settimelli, which boasts its historical significance by displaying a sign above the arched entrance, stating that this was once the residence of the Galilei family, and it is said that Galileo himself was born there. A little further on there is a statue of  Galileo with his gaze turned towards the sky and holds a telescope in one hand and a globe, symbol of the world, in the other.

Piazza dei Cavalieri (Knights Square)

Shortly after you pass the Statua Galileo Galilei, turn left down Via Ulisse Dini which leads to Piazza dei Cavalieri.

During the medieval era, Knights’ Square served as the political hub of Pisa, and it is believed that before that, it might have been the location of the Roman Forum.

In 1406, the end of Pisa’s independence was announced in this very square by Florence’s emissary.

In the 16th century, Cosimo I de Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, commissioned Vasari to redesign the square in the Renaissance style. The Knights of St. Stephen had recently established the Order of the Knights, and the square was dedicated to their honour. The Order of the Knights of Saint Stephen was formed to protect the coast from Turkish pirates.

At the heart of the square stands a statue of the Grand Duke of Tuscany, erected in 1596.

Knights Square is home to several significant buildings. The Cavalieri Palace, also known as the Palace of the Convoy, served as the training ground for Order initiates, undergoing three years of preparation here. The palace is adorned with artistic graffiti depicting allegorical figures, zodiac signs, and busts representing the Grand Dukes of Tuscany.

The Clock Palace is famous as the place where Count Ugolino was imprisoned and met his tragic end of starvation. Today, the palace houses the University library.

The Puteano College was founded in 1605, and the Consiglio dei Dodici Palace features valuable 18th-century paintings.

The Church of the Knights of the Holy and Military Order of St. Stephen, designed by Vasari, was completed in 1569. Inside, visitors will find naval banners captured by successful Knights of St. Stephen, a testament to their maritime endeavours and achievements.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa, renowned as the world’s most famous freestanding bell tower, was constructed between 1173 and 1372 as a companion to the Pisa Cathedral. Its unique architectural feature, the leaning aspect, resulted from the tower sinking into the soft, sandy soil during its early construction. After a century-long pause in construction due to battles and conflicts, the tower was completed with careful adjustments to compensate for its tilt.

One of the tower’s significant historical associations is with Galileo Galilei, who performed his famous experiment by dropping spheres of different masses from the tower to demonstrate that their time of descent was independent of their mass. This groundbreaking experiment challenged Aristotle’s theory of gravity and laid the foundation for modern physics.

Despite facing several major earthquakes, the tower has impressively withstood the test of time, thanks to its height and the soil’s supportive characteristics. To prevent further leaning and preserve this iconic landmark, extensive stabilization efforts were carried out between 1990 and 2001, successfully reducing the tilt and ensuring its stability.

Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a must-do while in the city. Climbing its 251 steps offers breathtaking views, making it an ideal spot for memorable photographs. Tickets are in high demand, so it’s advisable to purchase them in advance, and please note that children under eight are not permitted to climb.

The Leaning Tower’s fascinating history, remarkable architecture, and cultural significance make it an essential destination for anyone exploring the city of Pisa.

Battistero di San Giovanni (Pisa Baptistery)

The Pisa Baptistery, a magnificent marble structure, began its construction in 1152 and was completed in 1363, a process spanning over two centuries. Designed by Diotisalvi, the baptistery stands tall at 54.86 meters (180 feet), making it the largest in Italy and almost as tall as its renowned neighbour, the Leaning Tower. The architectural style of the lower portion showcases Romanesque features, while the upper sections display elegant Gothic pointed arches.

The entrance of the baptistery is adorned with two classical columns, and the lintel is divided into two tiers. The lower tier depicts scenes from the life of John the Baptist, while the upper tier features John the Baptist alongside Christ, the Madonna, and angels.

Upon entering the interior, visitors are greeted by 12 columns symbolizing the 12 apostles. In the centre of the baptismal font stands a striking bronze sculpture of John the Baptist. The three steps of the font represent The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, holding great significance in Christian symbolism. Notably, the renowned scientist and astronomer, Galileo, was baptized in the baptistery in 1564.

The pulpit, an exquisite masterpiece sculpted by Nicola Pisano in 1260, is a remarkable representation of a new focus on realism in art, signifying the beginning of the Italian Renaissance period.

Like its famous neighbour, the Leaning Tower, the Pisa Baptistery also leans slightly, with an inclination of 0.6 degrees. Visitors have the opportunity to climb to the viewing level, providing panoramic views of the captivating Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) and its extraordinary ensemble of architectural wonders.

Duomo di Pisa (Pisa Cathedral)

The Pisa Cathedral, situated on the Miracles Square, is a splendid example of Italian-Romanesque architecture. Its construction began in 1064 under the guidance of architect Busketo, whose tomb is incorporated into the façade, adorned with white stone, grey marble, and colorful marble discs. An inscription commemorates the foundation of the Cathedral and Pisa’s triumph over the Saracens.

At the eastern end of the building, a replica of the Pisa Griffon can be seen. The original, an impressive 11th-century Islamic metal sculpture, is now housed in the Cathedral Museum.

Enormous bronze doors were installed after the original wooden ones were destroyed in a fire in 1595. Above the doors, you’ll find four rows of open galleries, featuring a statue of the Madonna and Child and the Four Evangelists. Worshipers commonly enter through a door built by Pisano in 1180 on the side of the cathedral facing the bell tower.

Inside the cathedral, the black and white marble facings create a captivating ambiance, and the mosaics showcase a Byzantine style. The granite Corinthian columns were acquired from a mosque in Palermo, captured by Pisa in 1063.

The interior’s gilded ceiling and frescoed dome were meticulously restored after the 1595 fire, as was the nave’s coffer ceiling. A precious fresco titled “Christ in Majesty with the Virgin Mary and St. John the Evangelist” fortunately survived the blaze and can be admired in the apse.

The cathedral boasts an intriguing tradition to mark the beginning of the Pisan new year. A beam of light shines through a round window on the south side of the nave, landing on the same spot every year precisely at noon on March 25. The light reaches a shelf affixed to a pylon on the opposite side of the church. Known as Galileo’s lamp, the lamp at the center of the nave is tied to a legend suggesting that the renowned scientist formulated his theory of isochronism of the pendulum while observing its oscillations from the roof of the nave. The original lamp, smaller and significantly different, is now located in the Camposanto.

It is noteworthy that Galileo Galilei, the great scientist, was consecrated as a scientist in this magnificent cathedral, adding to the rich historical and cultural significance of this awe-inspiring place of worship.

Camposanto Monumentale (Monumental Cemetery)

The Monumental Cemetery, located at the northern boundary of the Miracles Square, acquired its name “Monumental” to distinguish it from later cemeteries. According to legend, it was built around sacred earth brought back from Golgotha in the 12th century by the Archbishop of Pisa, Ubaldo de’Lanfranchi.

An intriguing belief surrounds the cemetery: bodies buried here are said to decay within 24 hours. It was the fourth and final structure to be built on the square, occupying the site of the original Baptistery. The Gothic-style oblong building was initiated by di Simone in 1278 and completed in 1464. Initially intended to be a church, the plans were altered after the western end was finished.

The outer wall features 43 blind arches and two doorways. Above the right-hand entrance, you’ll find a tabernacle housing sculptures of the Virgin and Child, as well as four Saints, crafted by Giovanni Pisano in the 14th century. Most of the tombs are situated under the arches, and although numerous Roman sarcophagi once adorned the cemetery, only 84 remain today.

Within the building, you can explore three chapels: the Chapel Ammannati, dating back to 1360; the Chapel Aulla, constructed in 1518 and featuring an altar made by della Robbia; and the Chapel Dal Pozzo, added in 1594.

Notably, in the Aulla chapel, visitors can see the original incense lamp that Galileo Galilei used for calculating pendular movements. This lamp is the same one Galileo observed inside the cathedral, now substituted by a larger and more elaborate one.

Sadly, during World War II, the cemetery suffered damage from American bombing, resulting in a fire that destroyed much of the marvelous frescoes. The surviving frescoes were removed and an ongoing restoration process commenced in 1954, with the aim of returning them to their original locations, preserving and showcasing the historical and artistic treasures of this significant site.

Orto Botanico (Botanical Garden)

The Botanical Garden in Pisa holds the distinction of being the first university botanical garden in all of Europe, dating back to its founding in 1544. Since 1591, it has been situated in its current location, offering visitors a serene and captivating environment to wander through, appreciating the beauty of nature and discovering an array of botanical treasures.

The garden encompasses various sections, each with its unique charm, including well-tended gardens, tranquil ponds, the botanical school, and greenhouses that shelter an array of plant species. A remarkable feature is the old botany institute, which was completed in 1595 and boasts an exquisite facade adorned with sea shells, making it a true architectural gem.

One of the garden’s highlights is the Pharaonic collection, a fascinating display of horticultural treasures unearthed from ancient Egyptian tombs. Additionally, the garden houses a collection of endangered aquatic plants that are so scarce in nature that they can no longer be found in the wild. The water gardens with their lovely pools and fountains provide a serene backdrop for contemplation.

For those interested in botanical history and knowledge, the Botanical Garden offers the Botanical Museum, established by the Grand Duke of Tuscany in 1591. Inside, you can explore portraits of renowned botanists and various artworks, delving into the rich history of botany. Moreover, the Herbarium houses an impressive collection of 350,000 samples, including diverse seagrass specimens.

Visiting the Botanical Garden is an enriching experience, allowing you to connect with nature and delve into the captivating world of botanical wonders and scientific exploration.

Santa Maria della Spina Church

The tiny church in Pisa boasts one of the most remarkable examples of Gothic architecture in all of Europe. Despite its simple rectangular shape, the exterior is a marvel, entirely constructed from marble and adorned with elaborate cusps, tympani, and tabernacles. Intricately detailed sculptures adorn the walls, complemented by elegant rose windows and numerous statues from the 14th century.

Originally built in 1230, the church underwent enlargement in 1325. In its early days, it was known as Santa Maria Di Pontenovo, named after a bridge that once stood nearby. Regrettably, the bridge collapsed in the 1400s and was never reconstructed. Although the church housed a sacred relic believed to be a thorn from the Crown of Thorns worn by Christ during the Crucifixion, the relic now resides at Santa Chiara Church. Nonetheless, the church retains the name “della spina” or “of the thorn” in remembrance of its association with the sacred artifact.

In 1871, the church underwent renovations to elevate it above the flood level of the Arno River. These alterations sparked controversy and dismay among locals and visitors, including the Englishman John Ruskin.

While the interior of the church is relatively austere compared to its ornate exterior, it still holds a notable Gothic sculpture at its center—the Madonna of the Rose by Andrea and Nino Pisano, an exceptional masterpiece of artistry and religious significance. A visit to this outstanding church offers a glimpse into the magnificent world of Gothic architecture and sculpture in the heart of Pisa.

Tuttomondo Mural

The Church of Sant’Antonio Abate in Pisa is adorned with a remarkable mural on its southern exterior wall. Painted in 1989, it stands as one of the final works of the renowned American artist, Keith Haring, who tragically passed away due to complications from AIDS.

Named “Tuttomondo” or “all the world,” this colossal 180-meter-tall mural holds immense significance to Haring, who considered it one of his most significant projects. Displayed in his signature cartoon style, the mural portrays 30 figures united by the theme of peace and harmony.

Noteworthy elements within the mural include a man conquering an evil serpent, symbolizing the triumph over adversity, and a depiction of a woman with a baby, symbolizing motherhood and nurturing. Additionally, figures supporting dolphins represent humanity’s connection and bond with nature.

As a beloved spot for both art enthusiasts and tourists, the mural attracts many admirers. Visitors often take the opportunity to capture a Pisa selfie with this captivating modern art piece as their backdrop. Across from the mural, the Keith Café and Art Shop offer a delightful setting to savor a meal or sip on coffee while reveling in the beauty of this stunning creation. The Tuttomondo mural stands as a profound and enduring tribute to Keith Haring’s artistic legacy and his powerful message of unity and peace.

Bagni di Nerone

Walk east along the Via Consoli del Mare, walk straight over Via Giosuè Carducci and continue until you reach the park Piazza Martiri della Libertà. Head north past the car park and turn left and then right back onto Via Giosuè Carducci. Straight ahead is the Baths of Nero.

The Baths of Nero in Pisa are an important archaeological site located near Porta a Lucca, not far from Piazza del Duomo. These are the remains of a Roman thermal building, often referred to as “of Nero” since the Middle Ages, although it is not actually associated with the Roman Emperor Nero or any of his palaces. The original layout of the complex dates back to the late 1st century AD, during the reign of Emperor Domitian, as indicated by the use of the opus victatum mixtum construction technique, which consists of alternating rows of brick and bench blocks in the facing of the walls.

In the following century, the thermal baths underwent renovations, and an epigraph mentioning the Veruleii Aproniani family, particularly Lucio Venuleio Aproniano Prisco, who financed the renovation, has been found. The Veruleii Aproniani were a prominent family with significant land and ceramic factories. The thermal baths were patronized and restored in the 16th and 17th centuries under the orders of Cosimo III.

The most well-preserved part of the baths is the sudatio laconicum, which is a room for hot air baths. It is octagonal in shape, with an apse and a perforated dome roof, partially restored. The remains of the gymnasium, apodyterium (changing room), and tepidarium (warm room) are also visible. The baths were supplied with water from the nearby Auser River and the Caldaccoli aqueduct from San Giuliano Terme.

The building must have been quite monumental, judging from the marbles and sculptures found on-site, which likely adorned the baths. Over the years, various excavations and restoration efforts have been carried out to preserve and showcase the historical significance of the Baths of Nero, making it an important site to explore and understand the ancient Roman history of Pisa.

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