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Map of Pisa — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Pisa, Italy for travelers! Check out Pisa’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Pisa? See our Pisa Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Pisa. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Pisa map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Pisa by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 18 attractions in Pisa

Tower of pisa, cattedrale di pisa.

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Battistero di San Giovanni

Chiesa di santa maria della spina, piazza del duomo, national museum of san matteo, chiesa di santa caterina d'alessandria, parco regionale migliarino, san rossore, massaciuccoli, ponte di mezzo, sinopie museum, piazza dei cavalieri, parrocchia di san nicola, san paolo a ripa d'arno, tuttomondo (keith haring).

• San Piero a Grado

P.za dei Cavalieri

Palazzo blu, top 10 restaurants in pisa, osteria dei cavalieri.

Il Campano Trattoria con cucina tipica toscana dal 1923

La pergoletta.

Trattoria Da Stelio

Osteria di culegna pisa, ristorante alle bandierine, pizzeria il montino, la panacea di pulizzi r. sas, la grotta pisa, i porci comodi, transportation in pisa, nearby airports, amerigo vespucci airport, pisa international airport, bologna guglielmo marconi airport, highways and major roads.

• SS1 Aurelia.
• A11 Autostrada Fi-Pi-Li.
• SP13 Strada Provinciale Pisa-Lucca.
• SP20 Strada Provinciale Vicarese.
• SP4 Strada Provinciale della Val di Fornace.
• SP6 Strada Provinciale del Monte Pisano.
• SP11 Strada Provinciale del Monte Serra.
• SP15 Strada Provinciale della Certosa.
• SP3 Strada Provinciale del Cacciatore.
• SP64 Strada Provinciale di Vecchiano.

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Explore nearby places

• Montecatini Val di Cecina
• Sant'Ippolito
• Madonna Dell'Acqua
• San Giuliano Terme
• Arena-Metato
• Santa Maria del Giudice
• Marina di Pisa
• Massaciuccoli
• Collesalvetti
• Torre del Lago Puccini
• San Macario in Piano
• San Pietro in Campo

All related maps of Pisa

• Map of Montecatini Val di Cecina
• Map of Sant'Ippolito
• Map of Ghezzano
• Map of Madonna Dell'Acqua
• Map of San Piero a Grado
• Map of San Giuliano Terme
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Pisa throughout the year

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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Pisa?

Get inspired for your trip to Pisa with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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Pisa Tourist Attractions Map PDF

Printable Map of Pisa Attractions, Walking Tours Map

Home / Pisa Tours / Attractions Map

Pisa Tourist Attractions Maps | City Tours Map

Most tourists visiting Italy would make sure to drop by at Pisa in order to catch a glimpse of the iconic Leaning Tower. But aside from the tower, there are several other attractions in Pisa that are worth checking out so it may be worth it to carry a Pisa tour map when visiting this charming Italian city.

Located in the Tuscany region of Italy, the city of Pisa is not really that difficult to explore but having a map of Pisa can make your visit to the city even more convenient and fun. If you don't mind carrying your smartphone as you explore the city, then download our free Pisa interactive map. You can use this map to find your way in the city, especially when visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and other attractions, such as the Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa Cathedral , Camposanto Monumentale, and other famous landmarks and Pisa attractions of Pisa . Of course, you can also opt for a printable tourist map of Pisa if you don't want to use a digital version of the map as you explore the city.

Tripindicator aims to help all kinds of travellers in easily navigating the city of Pisa. For those who prefer to explore Pisa by foot, the Pisa tourist map walking is what you should get. There's also a hop on hop off bus that will take you to the various attractions in the city. For more information about its stops, check out the Pisa hop on hop off bus map.

If you want to carry an actual map during your tour of the city, you can always get a copy of the printable map of Pisa. You can also download the Pisa tourist map pdf version and save it on your phone or print a copy of it. If you need a guide on Pisa's most famous tourist attractions, go check out the tourist information Pisa map. It will be a big help to all tourists, most especially first time visitors.

Whether you prefer to have a copy of the Pisa city sightseeing maps or the Pisa tourist map printable, we're here to have these maps available for you. We simply want tourists to feel comfortable during their stay in Pisa so we have provided free copies of the map of Pisa.

• Interactive Pisa Attractions Map
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Pisa Transport Map

Pisa metro map, pisa tourist map, pisa walking tour map.

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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

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

Cathedral of santa maria assunta, campo santo (sacred field), museo dell'opera del duomo (cathedral museum), murale tuttomondo by keith haring, arsenals & museum of ancient ships, santa maria della spina, stroll along borgo stretto, palazzo dei cavalieri, palazzo blu, basilica romanica di san piero a grado, orto botanico (botanic garden), santo stefano dei cavalieri, museo nazionale di san matteo (national museum of san matteo), 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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19 BEST Things to do in Pisa, Italy 2024 // Map & 1-DAY Pisa Itinerary

From the leaning tower of pisa to roman ruins, unique-style pizza to ancient city walls, here are the best things to do in pisa.

Pisa is a popular day trip from Florence and tops the bucket list of many travelers with its iconic leaning tower. But many don’t know that this charming Tuscan town on the tranquil banks of the Arno river has so much more to offer than just a tower that made history with its iconic tilt. 

Once a thriving maritime power hub, Pisa is a treasure trove of history, fascinating sights, and quaint corners of Italian daily life. Its diverse attractions perfectly blend past and present, culture and relaxation. So, while the leaning tower may be the town’s most famous landmark, it’s just the tip of the iceberg in terms of attractions in Pisa.

Table of contents

Use the links below to get the most out of this comprehensive travel guide to the best things to do in Pisa, Italy.  

• How to get to Pisa

Tips for visiting Pisa

Map of things to do in pisa.

• Best things to do in Pisa
• Recommended Itinerary: Things to do in Pisa for a day trip

If you land at Pisa Airport, hop onto the PisaMover shuttle (€5 one way) for a quick and comfortable ride to Pisa Centrale. From there, catch the ROSSA bus, which will take you straight to Campo dei Miracoli where the Leaning Tower of Pisa is located. 

If you’re only stopping in Pisa for a short time and planning to continue your journey to Florence , you can easily leave your luggage at the train station baggage deposit . This way, you won’t have to worry about dragging it around the city, and you can pick it up on your way back.  

While it may be tempting to rent a car to get around, navigating the city’s narrow streets can be pretty challenging, especially since the city center is a limited traffic zone. You wouldn’t want to risk a hefty fine, would you? However, if you do have a rental car, your best bet is to look for a free or paid parking spot outside the city center and then hop on public transportation to reach the main attractions in Pisa.

If the thought of wandering around on your own seems overwhelming, you can treat yourself to a half-day guided tour of Pisa from Florence or opt for a broader excursion that includes other Tuscan highlights, such as this guided day trip from Florence.   

Piazza Martiri della Libertà

June, however, is still a great month, especially if you’re interested in local festivals. It’s the month that celebrates the city’s patron saint San Ranieri when Pisa truly comes alive with some fantastic celebrations. The Luminary on June 16th is particularly noteworthy, as the buildings lining the river banks are adorned with countless wax candles, creating a stunning spectacle at night, complete with fireworks. Other notable festivals include the Historical Regatta of San Ranieri on June 17th and the Battle of the Bridge on the last Saturday of the month, during which the city’s districts challenge each other on the Ponte di Mezzo bridge.

Pisa is a small city that’s easily explored on foot. While the Campo dei Miracoli with the Leaning Tower are must-see attractions, be sure to venture into the historic center and explore as much of the city as possible. You’ll be surprised at how much Pisa has to offer. 

To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit the Leaning Tower and its neighboring attractions early in the morning or much later in the afternoon. This way, you can avoid the peak times of large tour groups and have a more enjoyable experience.

Watch my Florence to Pisa day trip video

Best things to do in pisa , how to get to pisa , 1. campo dei miracoli – home to the leaning tower of pisa.

Campo dei Mircoli is a true artistic and architectural masterpiece that’s been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, cementing its place as a wonder of the world. While its location outside of city center may seem odd for what’s considered to be the heart of Pisa, it’s important to note that the city was once a major maritime power (rivalling the likes of Venice) so by placing its religious center outside the protective walls, it showed it feared no threat. Or, perhaps the sheer grandeur of the monuments simply required more space than the walls could contain!  

The piazza covers an impressive 22 acres, and its magnificent buildings, constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries, are intricately linked, showcasing a continuous dialogue between heaven and earth. Notably, the piazza’s three most prominent structures – the Baptistery, the Cathedral, and the Campo Santo – embody distinct stages of life: birth, life, and death, respectively.

Tickets to the sites on Campo dei Miracoli can be purchased online up to 20 days in advance. There are tickets for single sites or 10€ combo tickets that grant access to all monuments and museums in the square, except for the Tower. If you want Leaning Tower of Pisa tickets, you’ll need to purchase the combo ticket which costs 27€. 

With so much to see in the square, exploring on your own can be overwhelming. To save time and make sure you don’t miss anything important, consider taking a guided visit like this comprehensive tour of Miracle Square , which includes skip-the-line entry to the Leaning Tower.

2. Pisa Cathedral in Piazza del Duomo

As you approach the Cathedral, you can’t help but be captivated by its grandeur. The facade has massive bronze portals, polychrome marble, and impressive decorative features. But the true beauty lies within the five-nave interiors, where you will find granite columns from Elba island (Tuscany’s biggest island and Italy’s third-largest,), a wooden ceiling with gilded coffers, and exquisite artworks, including a mosaic piece by Cimabue. 

The Cathedral also serves as the final resting place of San Ranieri, the city’s patron saint. On June 16th, the city dedicates a beautiful festival to him, while on June 17th, a historic Regatta takes place on the Arno river, commemorating the saint’s life and legacy.

How to visit: Entrance to the Cathedral is complimentary if you purchase any ticket to other monuments, and there are no specific time restrictions. However, if you wish to only visit the Cathedral, there are a limited number of free passes available but they can only be obtained from the ticket offices right behind the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

3. The Baptistery of San Giovanni

The Baptistry was constructed in the 12th century as an addition to the city’s impressive cathedral and some of the greatest artists of all time had worked on it. Among them are Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, a father and son duo whose names are etched in the annals of art history as the revolutionary sculptors who paved the way for the Renaissance in sculpture.  

This stunning building boasts a double dome that creates unparalleled acoustics. Be sure to keep an ear out for the melodies sung by the guardians every half hour, perfectly accentuating the sound quality of the building. And if that’s not enough to leave you awe-struck, don’t forget to take in the incredible views of the Cathedral facade from the second-floor window. 

How to visit: Tickets cost 7€ and are valid for one year from the chosen date of purchase. Free admission is available for disabled visitors accompanied by their carer and those under 11 who are accompanied by an adult. Note that certain areas may be closed due to restoration work on the matroneum. In addition, opening hours may vary on Sundays and religious holidays.

4. The Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower is undoubtedly the star attraction of Pisa. Completely made of gleaming white marble, this magnificent structure is an authentic Italian icon. But don’t just breeze through and snap the obligatory cheesy photos holding it up – take the time to learn about its fascinating history and appreciate the ingenuity behind this architectural wonder.

While the architect’s name may remain unknown, one thing is certain – this tower was meant to be a vertical bell tower like any other. However, its distinctive tilt makes it stand out from the rest. The cause of this tilt can be attributed to the weak and shifting soil beneath it. Even during its construction, this bell tower began to show signs of structural failure, causing it to worsen over time.

In 1990, the Leaning Tower was closed to the public to stabilize it. After much effort, it finally reopened to the public in 2001 and today you can climb up the tower’s spiral staircase and enjoy breathtaking views of Pisa and its surroundings.

Inside the shaft of the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Legend has it that Galileo Galilei, the renowned Pisan scientist, conducted his experiments on gravity from the top of the tower to test the relationship between mass and speed. While there’s no concrete evidence to support this tale, it’s still thrilling to imagine one of the world’s most brilliant minds tinkering with physics from up there!

How to visit: The visit typically lasts 30 minutes. Tickets cost 20€ and are only valid for the specified date and time of purchase. It’s best to book them well in advance (up to 20 days out) due to high demand. For safety reasons, children under 8 cannot enter, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Additionally, all handbags, backpacks, and luggage must be left in the cloakroom before the visit. Admission is free for disabled visitors accompanied by their adult carer.

5. Camposanto

But Pisa’s Camposanto is not just a simple burial ground. Its corridors are the repository of great works of art, including sculptures, Roman sarcophagi, and beautiful frescoes depicting the themes of Life and Death created by the talented Florentine artists Buonamico Buffalmacco and Francesco Traini.

Legend has it that the Camposanto was built on sacred soil brought all the way from the Holy Land during the Crusades. Whether or not this is true, there’s no denying the sense of history and reverence surrounding this unique site.   

How to visit: Tickets cost 7€, with free entrance on the 1 and 2 November on the occasion of All Souls and Saints’ days. Free admission is available only for disabled visitors with their carer and for visitors under 11 accompanied by an adult. 

6. The Sinopie Museum 

The Sinopie Museum is a hidden treasure not to be missed when visiting the Campo dei Miracoli complex. It showcases a collection of  sinopie , the preparatory drawings that are traced on the first layer of plaster and represent the first steps in creating a fresco. The name comes from sinoper , the red pigment mixed with water that’s applied by brush.  

The museum is located inside the Spedale Nuovo, a historic pilgrimage hospital dating back to the 13th century. When bombs rained down on the Camposanto, a devastating fire swept through the area, threatening to destroy the priceless frescoes that adorned its walls. To save them, the frescoes were removed from the walls and mounted onto panels. But during this delicate process, the preparatory sketches were revealed, offering a glimpse into the creative process of the artists who had created these masterpieces centuries ago.

How to visit: Tickets cost 7€, with free admission available for disabled visitors accompanied by their carer and for visitors under 11 accompanied by an adult.

7. Opera del Duomo Museum 

Nestled within the walls of a stunning 15th-century convent, the Opera del Duomo Museum in Pisa is a must-see for art and history enthusiasts alike. It showcases a fascinating collection of 380 unique works of art and decorative elements, all sourced from the Cathedral’s treasury and the stunning buildings of Campo dei Miracoli.

Spanning over a thousand years, the collection is a testament to the intricate relationships that have shaped the city’s history with Mediterranean cultures. There’s also a lovely cloister that’s a real oasis of tranquillity. For a truly magical experience, head to the top floor to enjoy a cup of coffee (or some tasty pancakes, in my case) at the panoramic café while taking in an unparalleled view of the iconic Tower of Pisa and Campo dei Miracoli.

8. The Baths of Nero

Pisa, which would later become a renowned maritime republic in the Middle Ages, had a significant Roman presence and was home to several remarkable structures, including a monumental forum, temples, and an amphitheater. Sadly, today only this thermal complex remains visible. This site was excavated in the second half of the 19th century and is one of the few remaining remnants of the city’s Roman past. 

The thermal establishment is named after Emperor Nero due to rumors circulating during the Middle Ages. However, there is no concrete evidence that the Emperor actually visited Pisa or had anything to do with the establishment. Still, the complex has been commonly known as such since then.

How to visit: Currently, it is not possible to enter the site. However, it can be viewed almost completely from outside the fenced area. Keep an eye on the Pisa Tourism website for further updates.

9. Piazza dei Cavalieri 

The square’s centerpiece is the magnificent Palazzo dei Cavalieri, a 16th-century masterpiece that serves as the seat of the prestigious Normale di Pisa University (Italian: Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa), founded by none other than Napoleon Bonaparte. 

Its facade is truly a sight to behold, thanks to the masterful work of artist Vasari who embellished it with allegorical figures, zodiac signs, and the busts of the Grandukes of Tuscany.

Another gem is Palazzo dell’Orologio, which once served as the government headquarters during the medieval era. Its walls bear witness to a heart-wrenching tale that has been immortalized in Dante’s Divine Comedy. It recounts the story of Count Ugolino della Gherardesca, a traitor of the city who was starved to death along with his sons and grandchildren within the walls of this palace.

10. Pizzeria Il Montino

While they offer a daily menu of local specialties, they’re best known for their  cecina  (the region’s famous chickpea flatbread) and pizzas. Though be warned, they’re far from the standard: thick, crispy, and loaded with cheese. One of the most popular is Pizza Pisana, topped with zesty tomato, salty capers, anchovies, and Parmesan, promising an explosion of flavor.

How to visit: Il Montino is located on Via del Monte 1 and is open every day except Sundays. They serve lunch from 12:30pm to 3:30pm and dinner from 7pm to 10:30pm.

11. Church of Santa Maria della Spina 

The building’s exterior is divided into two perfectly symmetrical parts, adorned with delicate spirals, intricate rose windows, elegant marble inlays, grand pinnacles, and magnificent statues – all meticulously crafted to embody the essence of Gothic architecture. In contrast, the interior is a masterful showcase of simplicity and elegance, preserving one of the finest examples of Gothic sculpture: the Madonna of the Rose by Andrea and Nino Pisano.

How to visit: the Church is located at Lungarno Gambacorti 5 and is open for free visits on the following days and times: Mondays (10am to 1pm), Tuesdays to Thursdays (3pm to 7pm) and Fridays to Sundays (10am to 1pm and 3pm to 7pm).

12. La Bottega del Gelato 

La Bottega del Gelato  has been serving artisanal gelato since 1979 when it opened its first location near the river bank. Their gelato is renowned for being completely handmade using high-quality ingredients, such as Sicilian lemons, Cantiano cherries, and Sorrento walnuts. The range of flavors is ample and varied, including classics like cream and chocolate as well as inventive variations like ricotta cheese with figs and walnuts and bitter orange with cinnamon.

How to visit: La Bottega del Gelato is in Piazza Garibaldi and is open every day from 11am to 1am.

13. Piazza delle Vettovaglie

During the day, this square is filled with colorful stalls selling fresh produce. But as the sun sets, it transforms into a lively hangout spot with cozy bars and eateries sprawling onto the open space. A favorite among locals and visitors is Cecco Rivolta, a winery serving excellent Tuscan wine paired with platters of cold cuts and cheeses.

Artwork by local artists on Vicolo del Vigna

14. Keith Haring’s mural

This mural came to life through a chance encounter between the artist and a Pisan student on holiday in New York. The two struck up a friendship, and the Italian convinced the artist to come to Italy to create a work outdoors that would be accessible to everyone. 

The mural, considered Haring’s artistic testament, expresses his vision of life as a puzzle of colorful figures, each representing a unique aspect of a peaceful world.

How to visit: You’ll find Haring’s mural in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II.

If you have more time in Pisa…

15. palazzo blu  .

The palace boasts a permanent collection of paintings from the 14th to the 18th century, plus a photographic archive documenting life in Pisa during the second half of the 20th century. It also hosts cultural activities and temporary exhibits, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the arts.

How to visit: Palazzo Blu is located on Lungarno Gambacorti 32 and is open from Monday to Friday, 10am to 7pm, and from Saturday to Sunday, 10am to 8pm. The entrance fee is €3 and includes access to the temporary exhibitions.

16. University of Pisa Botanical Gardens 

Among the city’s stunning architecture and artistic treasures lies an oasis of natural beauty that’s just as fascinating as the other more famous things to do in Pisa: the Botanical Gardens of Pisa University . Established in 1543, they are the first university gardens in the world and boast an impressive collection of flora from across the globe. 

There is also a Botanical Museum, which Ferdinando I de ‘Medici created to complement the gardens. It showcases portraits of famous botanists, ancient teaching material, and a multimedia station where you can take a virtual tour of the herbarium, whose exclusive collection is typically only accessible to scholars by appointment.

How to visit: The Botanical Gardens are located in Via Luca Ghini 13, near Piazza dei Cavalieri, and are open throughout the year starting from 8:30 am. Closing times may vary depending on the season. Admission tickets are priced at €4, and family tickets are also available for €8.

17. The walkway of the Pisa’s ancient walls

At a towering height of 11 meters, the  walkway along Pisa’s ancient walls  offers a unique perspective to take in the city’s sights. These walls are not only among Italy’s oldest but also some of the best-preserved medieval walls in all of Europe.

The walls’ construction, which began in 1154, followed the natural elements present, making it an architectural wonder that blends harmoniously with its surroundings. After years of restoration, you can now take a leisurely walk along the trail of the Walls and immerse yourself in the panoramic view of the city. 

How to visit:  Opening times vary depending on the time of year; in high season, they are open every day from 10am to 8pm. Admission tickets are priced at €5, and there are four access points, three of which are accessible to disabled individuals. Check the website for complete details.

18. The Museum of Ancient Boats (Museo delle Navi Antiche di Pisa)

Pisa has a long history as a maritime superpower, and the  Museum of Ancient Boats provides an in-depth account of a millennium of trade, seafaring, and navigation. Housed within the Medicean Arsenals on the Pisan Lungarno, this museum is considered the largest of its kind and is the result of 20 years of extensive research and investigation. Its collection of ancient boats and artifacts showcases the city’s maritime heritage and its role in shaping the Mediterranean’s cultural and commercial exchange.

There are 8 thematic areas to explore, which host seven boats from the roman age, datable between the 3rd and the 7th century A.D., of which four are essentially intact. Also exhibited are 800 finds, including maps and personal belongings that narrate daily life aboard for both the mariners and the passengers.

How to visit: The exhibition is open on Fridays from 3:30pm to 6:30 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10.30am to 6.30pm (until 8:30pm between June and September). Tickets cost €10.

19. Osteria dei Cavalieri

If you have time for dinner, then Osteria dei Cavalieri is one of the best restaurants in Pisa for savoring some delicious local cuisine before ending your trip. Just a short walk away from Campo dei Miracoli, this restaurant is housed in a historic building dating from the 1200s, with bottles of wine all over and classic tablecloths that exude a slightly old-fashioned charm. 

Dishes here are deeply rooted in tradition, offering a variety of delicious options like ravioli filled with flavorful pecorino cheese, grilled T-bone steaks, ossobuco with beans, and ribollita soup. They also have an extensive wine selection featuring both classic and new labels.

How to visit: Osteria dei Cavalieri is located on Via San Frediano, near Piazza Dei Cavalieri. They are open for lunch (12 pm to 2:15 pm) and dinner (7:45 pm to 10:30 pm) but closed on Sundays and for lunch on Wednesdays.

Recommended Itinerary: Pisa day trip from Florence

If you arrive at Pisa Centrale station, you can begin by walking to the Church of Sant’Antonio Abate to see Keith Haring’s iconic mural. Its bright, vivid colors are sure to brighten up your day! 

Next, cross the river and head to Piazza delle Vettovaglie to experience the bustling market, where locals shop for fresh produce. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells of this vibrant space, and maybe even indulge in some tasty treats along the way. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around Borgo Stretto, one of the city’s main streets, boasting a beautiful portico arcade home to elegant shops and cafes. 

Take some time to explore the picturesque Arno riverfront, framed by charming landmarks like the tiny Church of Santa Maria della Spina. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a cone of mouth-watering gelato from La Bottega del Gelato while you’re there. Then, as lunchtime approaches, head to Il Montino and fuel up with a delicious Pizza Pisana before continuing your exploration of Pisa.  

Check out the ancient Baths of Nero, a fascinating testament to the city’s Roman past, before immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Campo dei Miracoli, where you can spend the rest of your day discovering the many treasures this stunning location has to offer. 

With your timed ticket, you can quickly access the Leaning Tower and climb up its spiral staircase for some beautiful views over the city. Next, stop for the mandatory photo ops before exploring all the other gems in the square. 

End your day with a refreshing drink or some delicious pancakes at the panoramic café in the Opera del Duomo Museum. The view is fantastic, and the food is sure to satisfy your cravings. As the day comes to a close, hop in a taxi or stroll back to the train station.

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to Do in Pisa (Italy)

15 Best Things to Do in Pisa (Italy)

Pisa is a legendary city and one of the most famous in this region of Italy . Tourists often stop at Pisa en-route to Florence but it is a fantastic city to stay in and offers a great deal more sites than just it’s legendary leaning tower. Located on the western coast of Italy, Pisa is only 20 minutes from the Ligurian Sea and has great transport links to Florence , Livorno and La Spezia . With a population of just 91,000 it is one of the smaller cities in the Tuscany region of Italy, but has historically been one of the most important and influential.

During the 11th century and onwards Pisa rose to prominence and became one of the major maritime republics of Italy. The city saw great development and it grew in population and investment was poured into the city to improve its infrastructure and build its world famous monuments that still stand today. During the Middle Ages Pisa was involved in various battles and played an important role in the wars and feuds between the Guelphs and Ghibellines. Today the city still maintains its ports and this accounts for much of its economy, furthermore, due to iconic buildings such as the Leaning Tower, Pisa has a well-developed tourist infrastructure.

For those wishing to visit Pisa, this city has a fantastic array of beautiful historical buildings and indeed it boasts over 20 historical churches. Furthermore Pisa has some world class museums and beautiful scenery along the banks of the River Arno. This historical city is worth much more than just a fleeting visit and serves as a great base for those wishing to explore this region of Tuscany.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Pisa :

1. Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta

This Cathedral is sometimes overshadowed by the leaning tower, but it is a beautiful structure in its own right and is an absolute must when visiting Pisa.

Construction on this amazing cathedral was started in the 11th century and it was completed in 1092. The front façade of the cathedral is truly ornate with a series of beautiful stone and marble arches and three opulent bronze doors.

Furthermore, the interior of the cathedral is absolutely magnificent – the ceiling of the main aisle is covered with gold decoration and the dome of the basilica has a stunning fresco depicting the Assumption of Mary.

This structure truly is a masterpiece of religious construction and is wondrous to behold.

2. Leaning Tower of Pisa

This is by en-large the main reason people visit Pisa and is a structure that is known worldwide.

The Campanile or bell tower of Pisa Cathedral is a beautiful structure in its own right, but it has been made famous by its noticeable tilt.

Constructed in the 12th century after the cathedral, it was soon found that the foundations were unstable and the building began to lean.

To this day the tower still leans and measures have been taken to ensure it doesn’t collapse.

Aside from posing for funny photos, the architecture of the tower is actually fantastic and the 6 rows of stone arches are simply beautiful.

Furthermore, you can climb to the top of the tower for a surreal tilted view of the surrounding city.

Skip-the-Line tickets available : Timed Entrance Ticket to Leaning Tower of Pisa & Cathedral

3. The Baptistery

Although located within the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Pisa Baptistery is a worthy attraction in its own right.

This structure was created around the same time as the Campanile and was built to replace the old original baptistery.

This immense structure stands at 54m high and has a gorgeous exterior design with many different statues, arches and decoration.

Furthermore, the domed roof of the baptistery is only half complete – half is covered in orange tiles, whilst the other half remains bare and has never been finished.

Inside the baptistery, the opulent decoration continues and you can find a pulpit and a font that are both highly decorated.

4. Campo Santo

The final noteworthy structure within the Square of Miracles is the Monumental Cemetery.

Located to the side of the Cathedral, this complex is made from the same stone as the other buildings and features a beautiful and peaceful interior courtyard.

The interior hallway of the main building is bathed in light and features some beautiful (if not slightly faded) frescos.

Possibly the most well-known part of this complex is the courtyard – a large lawn is surrounded by beautiful flowers and the outside walls are lined with ornate arches to create a charming and photogenic scene.

5. Museo Nazionale

Located on the banks of the Arno River, the National Museum of Pisa is the most prized museum in the city and features some stunning artefacts and sculptures.

If you are looking to learn a little about the history of this fine city, this museum is the place to visit.

Notable objects include original sculptures from the Cathedral and Baptistery and some wonderful paintings dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries.

Furthermore, there is also a series of ancient manuscripts and other religious relics from the various churches in Pisa.

If you choose to visit a museum during your stay in Pisa, make sure it is this one!

6. Santa Maria della Spina

Although this church is really quite small, it is considered one of the most beautiful in Pisa due to its ornate design and riverside location.

You can find the Church of Santa Maria della Spina on the left hand bank of the River Arno opposite the National Museum of Pisa.

Originally created in the 13th century, the building features a Gothic style with a series of opulent pointed pediments and several rose windows.

The interior is quite reserved in comparison and features white and green striped stone walls and a series of sculptures.

When walking along the Lungomare, this church is definitely worth a visit.

7. Palazzo dei Cavalieri

The Knights Square is one of the main squares in Pisa and the Palazzo dei Cavalieri is a beautiful Palace that is the central attraction.

This palace was constructed in the 16th century and was originally the HQ of the Knights of St. Stephen.

The front façade of this palace is truly beautiful and features some spectacular decoration on the stone work.

Furthermore, there is a large central staircase leading up to the main doors and a series of stone statues representing the Dukes of Tuscany.

As one of the premier palaces in Pisa, the Palazzo dei Cavalieri and the Knights Square is a must see.

8. Take a walk along the River Arno

The River Arno is one of the main rivers in Italy and Pisa was built around this waterway.

This river stretches for 241km and has its source at Mount Falterona.

The section of the Arno that runs through Pisa provides a truly beautiful landscape and is an amazing place to simply walk along.

Five gorgeous bridges span the Arno in central Pisa and both the Lungarno Mediceo and Galileo Gallilei run parallel to the river.

The houses and architecture create a gorgeous backdrop and this part of Pisa is truly photogenic.

9. Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

Although this museum has a host of delightful treasures, it is one of the least visited in Pisa! The Cathedral Museum is located in the Piazza dei Miracoli and offers fantastic views of the leaning tower from its second floor windows.

Within this museum you can find a huge collection of artefacts and relics from the Cathedral of Pisa and the surrounding region.

Items include embroidery, tombs, sculptures, paintings and silversmith work.

Furthermore you can also find a number of relics from Pisa’s naval history and a range of religious findings dating back to Roman times.

Each display is beautifully presented and there is an extensive English description.

10. Borgo Stretto

If you are looking for a combination of fantastic architecture and high end retail shopping, the Borgo Stretto is the place to visit! This delightful street is located in the heart of the city and starts at the Piazza Garibaldi next to the Ponte di Mezzo.

On this street you can find a range of designer stores, boutique shops and quaint cafes.

For those who love a little retail therapy there is no better place in Pisa to visit! For those who aren’t interested in shopping, the beautiful architecture of the buildings is still a must-see attraction.

11. Guelph Tower

This attractive and eye-catching structure is located on the banks of the Arno River and is part of the old citadel complex.

This ancient complex of buildings was once the main ship-building area in Pisa during the 13th and 14th centuries.

During the 15th century the tower was constructed however as part of the cities defensive fortifications.

In modern times, the tower has been renovated and is now open to the public.

Once you are at the top, you are granted with fantastic panoramic views of Pisa – you can see the River Arno in all its glory, and even across to the Leaning tower and Cathedral.

12. Keith Haring Mural

Keith Haring is a world renowned artist who is famous for his wall murals.

Although Pisa has a host of historical buildings and beautiful Italian architecture, it does feature a beautiful mural by this American artist.

Located just off of the Piazza di Vittoria Emanuele II the mural is a truly magnificent piece of artwork and displays a vision of peace and harmony.

Bursting with colour, the mural features 30 different figures in various poses and speaks of life and vitality.

For those interested in art, this mural is an absolute must see and it creates a stark contrast to the other buildings in Pisa.

13. University of Pisa Botanical Gardens

This beautiful Botanical Gardens is maintained by Pisa University and is a wonderful place to visit.

Originally the garden was constructed in the 16th century by the Medici family and has been relocated several times.

Located in the heart of the historic old town this garden is easily accessible and contains a beautiful array of plants, trees, flowers and fauna.

The garden is split into several different sections including gardens, ponds, greenhouses and an arboretum.

The structures within the botanical gardens are beautiful and the variety of plants is simply gorgeous.

14. Ponte di Mezzo

The Mezzo Bridge is one of the most beautiful and prominent bridges in Pisa that spans the River Arno.

This bridge is 89m long and was constructed in 1947. White Verona stone has been used to line the sides of the bridge and it was designed by Sergio Aussant from Livorno.

If you are looking for a photogenic view of the River Arno – this is the bridge to cross.

Both sides of the bridge, the architecture is fantastic and the views are sublime.

15. Gelateria De’ Coltelli

Italy is famous for its world class Ice cream parlours and Pisa has the Gelateria De Coltelli.

This ice cream parlour is known throughout Pisa for its divine organic gelato and wonderful range of gorgeous zesty flavours.

Located on the banks of the River Arno, this Gelateria is an absolute must if you wish to try some authentic homemade ice cream.

Flavours available include ginger, pine nuts and honey, candied lemon peel and even kiwi fruit.

Suggested Side Trips :

• From Pisa: Food and Wine Tour of the Tuscan Countryside
• Full-Day San Gimignano, Siena & Chianti Tour from Pisa
• Half-Day Tuscan Hills Wine Tasting From Pisa

15 Best Things to Do in Pisa (Italy):

• Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
• Leaning Tower of Pisa
• The Baptistery
• Campo Santo
• Museo Nazionale
• Santa Maria della Spina
• Palazzo dei Cavalieri
• Take a walk along the River Arno
• Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
• Borgo Stretto
• Guelph Tower
• Keith Haring Mural
• University of Pisa Botanical Gardens
• Ponte di Mezzo
• Gelateria De' Coltelli

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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Visit Pisa: Top 21 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in pisa: the 21 best places to visit and highlights.

You’re going to visit Pisa during your next trip and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

During your stay, you will of course discover the city’s best places to visit such as the Piazza dei Miracoli and the Leaning Tower of Pisa , but also hidden gems of this beautiful Italian city.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the best things to do in Pisa , with all the must-see attractions and points of interest.

At the end of the article, you will also find itineraries to visit Pisa in 1, 2 or 3 days as well as my suggestions of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Pisa? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Piazza dei Miracoli

2. the tower of pisa, 3. the cathedral of our lady of the assumption in pisa, 4. pisa’s baptistery of st. john, 5. the camposanto monumentale, 6. the sinopie museum, 7. museo dell’ opera del duomo, 8. take a walk on the ramparts of pisa, 9. piazza dei cavalieri, 10. the borgo stretto, 11. churches to see in pisa, 12. corso italia, 13. other museums to visit in pisa, 14. giardino scotto / cittadella nuova, 15. the tutto mondo fresco, 17. florence, 19. cinque terre, 20. volterra, how many days to visit pisa, visit pisa in 1 day, visit pisa in 2 days, where to stay in pisa, where to eat in pisa, how to get to pisa, tourist map of pisa, you’re traveling in italy these articles will help you, visiting pisa: all must-see attractions.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Piazza dei Miracoli is a must-see in Pisa .

Also known as Square of Miracles or Piazza del Duomo , it’s home to the majority of the city’s landmarks.

There, you’ll be able to admire some of the city’s most beautiful historical and religious buildings , such as:

• Leaning Tower of Pisa: the famous leaning tower is one of the most visited monuments in Italy . I’ll give you all the historical and practical information you need to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa a bit below (point #2)
• Pisa Cathedral, right next to the tower. For more info, see section #3 of this article.
• The Baptistery (point #4 of this Pisa guide)
• Camposanto (point #5)
• Synopia Museum (point #6)
• Museo dell’ Opera del Duomo (point #7)

Pisa’s tourist office is also located in Piazza dei Miracoli . You should go there to pick up a map of the city .

The easiest way to visit all the monuments in the Piazza dei Miracoli (except the Leaning Tower of Pisa) is to buy the official combined ticket by clicking here:

To visit the Tower of Pisa , you’ll need to book a time slot by clicking below:

Visiting Pisa without seeing the Leaning Tower of Pisa is like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower, or going to London without passing by Big Ben: unthinkable!

The Leaning Tower is Pisa’s main tourist attraction , and you’ll soon realize this when you arrive in the Piazza dei Miracoli, the city’s busiest square.

Everywhere you look, you’ll see people looking for the perfect spot to take the famous photo of the tower being held up with their hands! And you’ll obviously try to do the same, otherwise it’s no fun! 😅

Depending on where you stand, you’ll see that the tower appears more or less tilted.

For the record, construction of the Leaning Tower of Pisa began in 1173 and remained upright for only 5 years. By 1178 , when only the first three floors had been built, it was already beginning to lean .

The other floors were then built specifically to try and compensate for the tilt , but the tower inexorably continued to lean more and more over the centuries .

To this day, we still don’t know whether this is due to a construction fault or to soft ground, but there is a difference of almost 4 metres between the top and the vertical.

It has been renovated and closed several times in an attempt to limit the damage, and its subsidence has now been stabilized.

Today, it is possible to climb the 8 floors and 293 steps of the Leaning Tower of Pisa to reach the top floor, at 56-metre-high.

The site houses the cathedral’s bells (the tower having been built as the cathedral’s campanile), but above all offers a 360° view of the Piazza dei Miracoli and its various monuments, as well as of the city itself.

Climbing up the narrow spiral staircase and walking around the top of the tower is quite a strange experience, as you really realize how much the tower is inclined!

Only 30 people are allowed into the tower every 30 minutes .

That’s why it’s really important to book your tickets to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa in advance . It’s the only way to make sure that you will be able to visit Pisa most famouse tourist attractions!

A word of warning: there’s no point in showing up before the time indicated on your ticket, as you won’t be allowed to go up. So don’t queue up with the rest of the tourists , and simply arrive at the time indicated on your ticket. You’ll be able to enter the tower directly!

This ticket also includes a visit to the cathedral .

Before going up to the tower, please drop off your bag in the baggage room , as they are not allowed. Also worth knowing: children under 8 years of age are not allowed in the tower.

Tickets to visit the Tower of Pisa need be purchased by clicking on the button below:

Also located in Piazza dei Miracoli, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption is Pisa’s other must-see monument.

Part of the UNESCO-listed group of monuments, its construction began in 1063 , founded by booty brought back from Pisan expeditions to Sicily , particularly Palermo . It was consecrated in 1118.

The exterior is Romanesque , with alternating white and darker marble slabs . This style, known as the “Pisan style” , is found on many other buildings in Tuscany, including Florence Cathedral and Siena Cathedral.

The interior of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption features 5 naves, each 100 meters long. It houses a large mosaic depicting Christ and a 14th-century pulpit sculpted by Giovanni Pisano, considered the masterpiece of the place.

Admission to the cathedral is free , but you’ll still need to collect your ticket from the museum located next to the catehdral. Without a ticket, you can’t get in. Depending on the season, you may be assigned an access time.

If you’ve bought the ticket for the Leaning Tower of Pisa I mentioned above, you’ll just have to show it to get in, no need to grab another ticket!

If you bought the combined ticket for the Baptistery, Camposanto or Synopia Museum, access to the Duomo is also included. I will give you more details about this ticket a bit below.

Finally, if you want to learn everything about the place, you should  opt for a guided tour of Pisa Cathedral by clicking here.

The Baptistery of St. John is another top tourist attractions in Pisa.

It stands opposite the entrance to the cathedral .

The base of the building, which began construction in 1152, is in the Pisan Romanesque style , while from the second floor upwards, the style is more Gothic . With a circumference of 107 meters, it is no less than the largest baptistery in Italy !

Its sober interior is renowned for its incredible acoustics. Every 30 minutes, a guard demonstrates the echo of the building.

To visit Pisa’s Baptistery , you should opt for a combined ticket that also includes access to Camposanto and the Synopia Museum .

There are several options to choose from:

• 1 building of your choice + the cathedral = 7€
• 3 buildings + cathedral = 10€

These tickets are sold at the ticket office located on the left of the Tower of Pisa entrance. As there’s often a long waiting, you can also choose to buy them in advance . It’s a bit more expensive, but it’ll save you a lot of time!

To book your combined Baptistery + Camposanto + Synopia + Cathedral ticket , simply click on the green button below:

Please note, whether you buy your combined ticket online or on site, the entrance ticket to the Leaning Tower of Pisa is not included in these tickets . You need to buy another ticket separately by clicking here .

During your stay in Pisa and your visit to the Piazza dei Miracoli, you can also discover the Camposanto .

Located to the north of Piazza dei Miracoli, this monumental cemetery is built in the form of a cloister , with a garden surrounded by arched galleries

Built in 1278, it houses several tombs belonging to the city’s upper classes. As in some cathedrals, the graves are on the ground and you’ll be walking on them, so don’t forget to look down to see the ornaments.

The cemetery walls are also adorned with large 14th-century frescoes , some of which are currently being restored. Many of them were badly damaged by a fire caused by a bomb that exploded on the roof during the Second World War.

Surprisingly, the place is very quiet , you will feel far from the crowds that line the square just a few meters away!

It would be a shame not to visit, especially if you’ve bought the combined ticket with all the Piazza dei Miracoli monuments.

Let’s continue this guide of Pisa with the Sinopie Museum .

As I mentioned above, the Camposanto frescoes were partially destroyed by the cemetery fire. But thanks to a special method known as “a strappo “, the rest of the frescoes could be peeled away from the walls to be preserved and restored later.

Once these frescoes had been removed, the walls revealed sinopia , the original drawings of the frescoes, remarkably well preserved.

The sinopie museum brings these sketches together , allowing visitors to learn a little more about the fresco-making process .

Entrance to the museum is included in the combined ticket , so it doesn’t cost you anything to visit it. The visit is quick and will be of particular interest to art lovers.

Also on the Piazza dei Miracoli, you will find the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo.

Renovated recently, it houses a collection of statues and paintings from the various monuments in the complex.

You should really visit it, especially since it’s also included in the Piazza dei Miracoli  combined ticket.

And if you want to have a drink, you can go to the café located on the 1st floor. It offers a nice view over the leaning tower of Pisa!

Wondering what to do in Pisa after visiting the Piazza del Duomo?

So you should take a stroll along the ramparts that surround the city of Pisa!

With a total length of 3 km , the route along the top of the ramparts allows you to contemplate the Cathedral, the Baptistery and the Tower of Pisa from another angle. You’ll enjoy lovely views of the monuments, without the crowds!

The best place to start is at the Torre Santa Maria, on the Piazza dei Miracoli. It’s just to the north, to the right of the entrance to the Baptistery.

Access to the ramparts costs just 3€ .

You can walk all the way to the Torre di Legno (not far from the Giardino Scotto) , or exit early at Torre Piezometrica or Piazza delle Gondole .

Opening times can be found on the official website.

Just behind the ramparts, west of the square, there is a market where you’ll find plenty of souvenirs to bring back from your visit to Pisa.

The Piazza dei Cavalieri is the other must-see square in Pisa.

It has long been the center of political power and was home to numerous institutions during the Medici era.

The Piazza dei Cavalieri is home to several buildings :

• Palazzo della Carovana: built in 1562, it was the headquarters of the Order of the Knights of St. Stephen. Today it houses the students of the Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa, founded by Napoleon.
• Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri church, featuring a white marble façade
• The Palazzo del Orologio, made up of two tower-houses, once a hospice and prison. It now houses the school library
• Palazzo della Canonica , another of the school’s buildings.

Leave the square via Via Ulisse Dini to enjoy a lovely view of the Palazzo del Podesta , and you’ll arrive in the Borgo Stretto.

You’re going to Pisa?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in a touristic city like Pisa 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Tens of thousands of people will be visiting Pisa on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Pisa.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Pisa, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Pisa!

Let’s now talk about the Borgo Stretto .

Lying between Piazza dei Cavalieri and the banks of the Arno, it’s the perfect place to take a stroll while discovering an authentic and typical district .

Considered to be Pisa’s old town , it’s a lively place, full of small boutiques, bars and restaurants . So just have a walk along the pedestrian streets ,  and stop for a drink or a coffee on of the numerou café terrace.

In this district, you can also find a popular morning market taking place at Piazza delle Vettovaglie .

Leaving the alleys to the south, you’ll come across Piazza Garibaldi, right on the river’s edge.

Pisa is famous for its numerous beautiful churches.

Here are my favorites:

• Santa Maria della Spina : this tiny marble church stands on the left bank of the Arno. Gothic in style, the elaborate exterior features numerous statues and sculptures.
• The church of San Paolo a Ripa d’Arno, nicknamed the Old Cathedral, it was used as a cathedral before the Duomo was completed.
• Church of St. Catherine: built in 1251, it houses a beautiful altarpiece that can be seen in the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo
• Church of San Zeno: dating from 1029, this church was part of an abbey run by the Benedictines.

Where to go in Pisa if you’re in the mood for shopping ?

Corso Italia , from Piazza Vittorio Emanuele (opposite the railway station) to Ponte di Mezzo (towards Piazza Garibaldi).

Here you’ll find the stores of major international brands such as H&M, Zara and Benetton.

During your trip to Pisa, you can take some time to visit the city’s museums :

• Museo Nazionale San Matteo: housed in a former convent, its collection includes paintings by great Pisan and Tuscan artists. Also worth seeing are marble sculptures and ceramics from the Middle Ages. Entrance fee: 5€.
• The National Museum of the Royal Palace features a collection of private works by the House of Medici and Savoy. Open every day except Tuesday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can visit the Royal Palace Museum and the San Matteo Museum with a combined ticket for 8€.
• Palazzo Blu: recognizable by its blue facade, the palace houses a permanent exhibition of paintings and also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions. The second floor is devoted to the reconstruction of a late 19th-century aristocratic apartment. Ticket price: 3€.

The Natural History Museum of the University of Pisa  is another interesting museum to visit. Well designed and set in beautiful surroundings, it’s a great choice if you’re visiting Pisa with your children!

It’s located about 10 km from Pisa, in Calci . You can get there by car or by bus.

Giardino Scotto is located on the banks of the Arno river, not far from Corso Italia and Pisa Centrale train station.

This ancient fortress houses a public park within its walls. It’s perfect get away from the crowds and enjoy the peace and quiet.

The park has a children playground and an open-air cinema , which can be a great option if you don’t know what to do in the evening in Pisa. Films and screening dates are posted at the Giardino Scotto entrance.

Now that you have seen most of the best places to visit in Piza, you go admire the city’s most famous fresco: Tutto Mondo .

It’s located on Piazzetta Keith Haring, close to the railway station and Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II.

This street art work by Keith Haring, created in 1989, features several colorful characters and animals intended to represent world peace . It was painted on the rear façade of the church of Sant’Antonio Abate.

It’s not the most exceptional fresco I’ve ever seen, and it didn’t particularly catch my eye, but you can have a look at it after your shopping session on Corso Italia or on your way to/from the station.

In this list of things to do in Pisa, you may have noticed that I haven’t mentioned the botanical garden of the University of Pisa. I haven’t forgotten it, but I don’t really recommend you to go there.

It may be one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe, but it’s a bit neglected and thus not really worth a vist.

The 5 best things to do around Pisa

Now that you know all the best places to visit in Pisa, let’s talk about the best things to do in the city’s surroundings!

There are many beautiful towns and villages to visit in Tuscany, all easily accessible by train from Pisa . Perfect to plan a nice itinerary in Italy!

Lucca is the ideal destination for a day trip around Pisa .

The town is only 30 minutes by train from Pisa, and the round trip costs less than 10€! For fares and timetables, you should check Omio.com website .

This ancient fortidied city, even if less famous than its neighbors Florence and Siena, is a really charming place.

Here are the best places to visit in Lucca:

• Guinigi Tower: the symbol of the city, with a hanging garden at the top. You can climb to the top for €4 and enjoy the view over Lucca
• The Clock Tower, the city’s highest tower, which you can also climb. It’s located right next to Guinigi
• Piazza dell’Anfiteatro (amphitheater square), built on the ruins of an ancient amphitheater, hence its elliptical shape
• The house museum of Giacomo Puccini , one of Lucca’s most famous opera composers
• Explore the fortified walls on foot or by bike
• Discover churches such as the Cathedral of San Martino di Lucca and the Basilica of San Frediano. Lucca is nicknamed “the city of 100 churches”.
• Wander through the cobbled streets of the historic center.

I can’t talk about the best things to do around Pisa without mentioning Florence!

The city is only 1 hour by train from Pisa , so it’s super easy to get there. Just like for Lucca, you can check the train schedules and prices on Omio website.

In Florence, you shouldn’t miss:

• Florence Cathedral , where you can climb the 400+ steps to the top of Brunelleschi dome for a panoramic view of the entire city and its emblematic monuments
• The Accademia gallery , home to Michelangelo’s famous masterpiece: The David, a mythical sculpture over 4 meters high.
• The Uffizi Gallery and its incredible collection of paintings by Caravaggio and Leonardo da Vinci
• Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens
• Santa Croce Basilica, the largest Franciscan basilica in the world. Michelangelo is buried here.
• Ponte Vecchio and its gold jewelry boutiques
• Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria
• Piazzale Michelangelo : the best-known belvedere, perfect to admire the view over the city.

To plan your stay in Florence, you should read my dedicated article: The 27 best things to do in Florence

Another beautiful Tuscan town close to Pisa is Siena , located only  1h40 away by train (schedules and prices here) .

Here are the best places to visit in Siena:

• Siena’s magnificent cathedral, located on Piazza del Duomo. The interior is a must-see: the mosaic floors and paintings are exceptional. It’s clearly one of the most beautiful cathedrals I’ve ever seen!
• Piazza del Campo, a huge square lined with restaurants on one side and the Palazzo Pubblico on the other
• The Torre de Mangia : you can climb to the top to admire the view
• Fortezza Medicea , offering a great view over the Cathedral and Palazzo Pubblico.

I give you all the details to organize your visit to Siena in my other article: The 20 best things to do in Siena .

From Pisa, you can also visit Siena with an all included day trip. It includes:

• Bus transportation
• Visit to San Gimignano
• Guided tour of Siena
• Wine tasting in a Chianti vineyard.

This tour is perfect to discover the best of Tuscany in a day! You need to book it by clicking on the button below:

Around Pisa, you should really go on a day trip to the Cinque Terre .

These 5 small villages, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites , are among the most visited places in the region.

Located by the sea and built on steep terrain, they are famous for their colorful houses surrounded by terraced vineyards . You will see, they are even more beautiful when see in real than on pictures!

The easiest way to get there is to take the train from Pisa to La Spezia (1h20 journey). You need to book your train ticket in advance on Omio.com .

From there, you can take another train that stops at the 5 villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore .

You should get the 1-day train pass sold in La Spezia for 16€, as it gives you unlimited travel . You can stop at any village, visit, and take another train to go to the next village.

You can also enjpoy the hiking trails that link the 5 villages together , as they offer splendid views over the villages, the vineyards and the sea . Some are sometimes closed, but you’ll be given a list of the open ones when you will purchase your ticket at La Spezia.

And if you don’t want to bother with organization and just want to make the most of your visit, you can opt for an organized day trip to visit Cinque Terre.

From Pisa, you’ll reach Portovenere , then take the train or boat to Cinque Terre. The program includes visits to Manarola, Vernazza and Monterosso .

You need to book your day trip to Cinque Terre by clicking on the green button below:

To learn everything you need to know to plan your visit to Cinque Terre, you should read my dedicated article: The ultimate guide to visiting Cinque Terre.

Volterra is also located not far from Pisa, in Tuscany.

Perched on a hill, this medieval town offers beautiful views over the surrounding countryside, and its historic center is well worth a visit.

Here are the must-sees in Volterra:

• Piazza dei Priori, the town’s main square. Stop by the tourist office to pick up a map of Volterra.
• Volterra’s 11th-century Santa Maria Assunta cathedral
• The ruins of the Roman amphitheatre
• Etruscan walls and Porta dell’Arco
• The Guarnaci Etruscan Museum with its thousands of funerary urns
• Palazzo Viti , turned into a museum and featuring really nice period furniture.

Volterra has been world-famous since the Twilight saga . It’s the home of the Volturi, the family of vampires who rule the world.

Since the release of the books and especially the films, the town has become a place of pilgrimage for fans following in Edward and Bella’s footsteps.

One full day is enough to visit Pisa’s main places of interest.

If you have planned a stay of 2 days or more , you can take advantage of this time to visit the surrounding area .

To help your organize your visits, I have written itineraries to visit Pisa and the surrounding area in 1 or 2 days:

If you’re planning to spend a day in Pisa , here’s the perfect itinerary to discover the best of the city:

• Start at Piazza dei Miracoli
• Climb the leaning tower of Pisa
• Visit the other monuments: the Cathedral , the Baptistery, the Sinopie Museum and the Camposanto
• Pass by Piazza dei Cavalieri
• Discover the authentic Borgo Stretto district
• If you’re interested in museums, visit the Palazzo Blu , the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo or the Museo Nazionale del Palazzo Reale (all on the outskirts of Borgo Stretto)
• Visit the Church of Santa Maria della Spina
• Shopping on Corso Italia
• See the Tutto Mondo fresco

For a 2-day stay in Pisa , for the 1st day, you can do the itinerary I mentioned above.

The next day, you should explorie the city surroundings!

For a day trip (going back to Pisa for he night), you should opt for one of these 2:

• Cinque Terre

To visit Florence, Siena and Volterra, it’s best to plan to spend at least 1 night in these cities.

Pisa is a small town, so you’ll find it easy to visit on foot, no matter which district you choose to stay in. In any case, you’ll be close to places of interest and the train station (for day trips or if you want to continue your trip in another city).

Just so you know: in Pisa, even in good hotels, you shouldn’t expect a modern decoration, it’s often quite vintage 😅

Here’s my selection of places to stay in Pisa:

• Hotel La Pace: Located 100 meters away from the train station and 20 minutes’ walk from the tower. Double room with period wooden furniture from €70, breakfast €9. Strong points: comfortable rooms, excellent breakfast. My favorite for its excellent value for money!
• Hotel Roma: Located just 100 meters from the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Double room with view of the tower or cathedral from €85, breakfast included. Strong points: the garden, proximity to the Piazza dei Miracoli, good breakfast.
• Hotel Bologna: Located 5 minutes from the station and 15 minutes’ walk from the Leaning Tower. Warm, colorful double rooms from €105, breakfast included. Strong points: great welcome, excellent breakfast buffet, comfortable room, parking.
• Grand Hotel Duomo: Just a 2-minute walk from Piazza del Duomo. Double room overlooking the monumental complex from €105, breakfast included. Strong points: panoramic roof terrace, friendly staff, good and varied breakfast. An excellent choice of accommodation close to the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
• Hotel Pisa Tower: Located 50 meters from the Piazza dei Miracoli. Spacious, bright double room from €115, breakfast included. Strong points: pleasant breakfast terrace, hotel setting, friendly staff.
• Il Giardino Dei Semplici: This B&B is a 5-minute walk from Piazza dei Miracoli. Modern, comfortable double rooms from €125, breakfast from €8. Strong points: warm welcome, comfortable rooms, quiet, excellent location. The best choice for an upscale stay in Pisa!

A trip to Pisa, and to Italy in general, also means taking the time to sample some excellent Italian cuisine.

• I porci comodi : located at 4 via l’Arancino. The best place in Pisa to enjoy an excellent board of Italian cured meats and cheeses! Delicious and reasonably priced. And don’t forget the sandwiches and panini with quality ingredients.
• Gusto Giusto: The restaurant is located in Via del Borghetto. It’s another place to eat excellent sandwiches made with typical products. For €5, you can compose your own sandwich with cured meats, cheeses and pickled vegetables.
• Il Pizzomane: Located away from the tourist sites, go to this restaurant if you’re in the mood for a delicious pizza. They’re hearty, reasonably priced and the staff is super friendly.
• La Cantini di Tipi: After sandwiches and pizzas, this restaurant is the perfect place to try a pasta dish, another Italian must! Fresh produce, homemade dishes and desserts, low prices, a warm welcome: you’re sure to have a great time!

Pisa has an international airport close to the tourist attractions.

Once there, you can quickly reach the city center :

• By bus: the E25 crosses the city and takes you directly to the Piazza dei Miracoli
• By train : take the “Pisamover” shuttle bus from the airport exit to the central train station (10-minute journey). From there, you can walk to your hotel, or take another train to Pisa Rossore station, right next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
• On foot: it’s only 3.5 km from the airport to reach the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

As flight prices to Pisa vary greatly, it’s a good idea to check them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner . You’re sure to get the best price!

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I’ve put together a tourist map of Pisa listing the places to visit that I mention in this top 20 things to do in Pisa.

You can view the map legend by clicking on the button in the top left-hand corner with the little arrow.

If you have any questions about planning your visit, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section below!

Italy travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Italy : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Italy are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Italy – All the must-see places!
• Itinerary: One Week in Tuscany – The perfect itinerary to visit Tuscany in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Cinque Terre: The definitive guide to plan your visit
• Florence: The 27 best things to do and must-see attractions
• Milan: The Top 15 things to do in the city and around
• Pisa: Top 21 must-see attractions + Tips
• Rome: The 25 best things to do and see
• Siena: Top 20 best places to visit
• Turin: The 20 must-see attractions
• Venice: The 31 best things to do (+ Tips)
• 2 days in Florence
• 3 days in Florence
• 4 days in Florence
• 5 days in Florence
• 2 days in Milan
• 3 days in Milan
• 4 days in Milan
• 2 Days in Rome – How to visit Rome in 48h
• 3 Days in Rome – The best itinerary to visit Rome in 72h
• 4 Days in Rome – The best places to visit in 4 days
• 5 Days in Rome – How to spend 5 days in Rome
• 6 Days in Rome – The ultimate Itinerary + Where to stay
• One week in Rome – The perfect 7-day itinerary
• 2 Days in Venice – An Epic 48h itinerary
• 3 Days in Venice – The perfect 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Venice – Itinerary + Best Things to do + Tips
• Where to stay in Milan? My guide to the best areas and hotels for a perfect stay
• Where to stay in Rome? – The definitive guide of the best areas!
• Where to stay in Venice? My selection of the best hotels and districts for an epic stay
• Omnia Card: The definitive guide
• Colosseum: The 7 best skip the line tickets
• Trevi Fountain: History, Secrets and Facts
• Rome’s Hidden Gems : The Definitive Guide with 17 secret spots!
• The 20 Best museums in Rome – With all my best tips!
• Rome in May: The definitive guide to plan your visit: weather, things to do, itineraries and more!
• Rome in June: Guide + All my best tips

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Trip to Pisa

Find the perfect accommodation!

Great location and deals for every budget.

Map of Pisa, Italy

Use the map to quickly find the right address in pisa, discover famous places of interest and plan a route to any destination..

You can download Map of Pisa

🏛️ What to do in Pisa

Discover the charm of Pisa through a range of exciting activities that cater to every budget, from exploring historic landmarks to indulging in unique experiences.

Best Budget Activity in Pisa:

Walk along the Arno River : Stroll along the picturesque Arno River, soaking in views of the city's iconic bridges and architecture.

Best Mid-Range Activity in Pisa:

Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa : Ascend the famous Leaning Tower for panoramic views of Pisa and the surrounding area.

Best Luxury Activity in Pisa:

Private Wine Tasting Tour in Tuscan Countryside : Indulge in a luxurious wine tasting experience in the scenic Tuscan countryside, sampling renowned local wines.

Recommendations:

Explore the Piazza dei Miracoli, visit the Battistero di San Giovanni for its stunning architecture, and take a leisurely bike tour along the medieval walls of Pisa for a unique perspective of the city.

🍽️ Where to eat in Pisa

Indulge in the culinary delights of Pisa, where you can savor traditional Tuscan flavors and must-try dishes like cecina (chickpea flour flatbread) and cacciucco (fish stew).

Best Budget Restaurant in Pisa:

Cuisine specialty: Authentic Italian pizzas

Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Pisa:

Cuisine specialty: Fresh seafood and pasta dishes

Best Luxury Restaurant in Pisa:

Cuisine specialty: Fine dining Tuscan cuisine

Try Trattoria Toscana for homely Tuscan fare and La Mescita for innovative Italian dishes.

Best Budget Bar in Pisa:

Aperitivo with local wines and snacks

Best Mid-Range Bar in Pisa:

Craft cocktails and artisanal beers

Best Luxury Bar in Pisa:

Signature cocktails with panoramic views

🏰 What to see in Pisa

Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural beauty of Pisa as you explore its top landmarks that showcase the city's cultural heritage and iconic structures.

An iconic bell tower known worldwide for its famous tilt, offering visitors the chance to climb to the top for breathtaking views.

A UNESCO World Heritage site housing the Leaning Tower, Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Baptistery, and Camposanto Monumentale.

A magnificent Romanesque cathedral known for its striking facade, impressive interior, and beautiful artwork.

A historic cemetery with impressive Gothic architecture and stunning frescoes, offering a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere.

An art museum housed in a beautiful historic palace, featuring an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and temporary exhibitions.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Pisa

Explore the vibrant shopping scene in Pisa, from bustling markets to chic boutiques, offering a mix of traditional Italian goods and contemporary fashion finds.

Best Budget Shopping Place in Pisa:

Mercato delle Vettovaglie : A lively market showcasing fresh produce, local delicacies, and affordable clothing and accessories.

Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Pisa:

Borgo Stretto : A charming street lined with boutique shops, cafes, and galleries, perfect for fashion enthusiasts and art lovers.

Best Luxury Shopping Place in Pisa:

Corso Italia : A premier shopping destination featuring high-end fashion brands, upscale boutiques, and luxury goods for discerning shoppers.

Don't miss exploring the vibrant Corso di Pisa for a mix of mainstream and boutique stores, discovering unique handicrafts and souvenirs at Via Santa Maria, and indulging in designer shopping at Galleria Borsi.

🚍 Getting Around Pisa

Public transport.

In Pisa, public transportation options include buses, trains, and taxis. The main bus company in the city is CPT, which operates various routes throughout Pisa and its surrounding areas. Bus tickets can be purchased onboard or at designated ticket kiosks, with prices starting at around €1.50 for a single journey. The bus schedule typically runs from early morning until late evening, with frequency varying depending on the route. The Pisa Centrale railway station is the main train station in the city, offering connections to major cities across Italy. Train tickets can be purchased online, at the station, or through ticket machines. The train schedule is usually consistent, with trains departing regularly throughout the day.

Main Transportation Hubs

The Pisa Centrale railway station is a key transportation hub, providing access to both regional and national train services. For bus travel, the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II and Piazza Sant'Antonio bus terminals are central points for bus routes within the city and to neighboring areas. The closest airport to Pisa is the Galileo Galilei Airport, located just a short distance from the city center.

🚗 Car Rentals

Several car rental companies operate in Pisa, including well-known providers such as Europcar, Avis, and Hertz. Rental prices vary depending on the vehicle type and duration, with rates starting at approximately €30 per day.

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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 winery – Taste the 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 the 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:

• Where To Stay in San Gimignano? The Best Hotels in the Manhattan of the Middle Ages - Our recommendations for the best places to stay in San Gimignano, Tuscany
• San Gimignano Travel Guide: 16 Best Things To Do & See - Everything you need to know about San Gimignano in Tuscany, including what to do & our top tips
• Where To Stay in Lucca? 8 Best Hotels in All Price Ranges - Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Lucca, Italy
• Lucca Travel Guide: 18 Best Things To Do & See - Everything you need to know about Lucca in Tuscany, including what to do & our top tips
• How To Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa & What To Expect - Everything you need to know about the Leaning Tower of Pisa, including why it leans and the best way to visit

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17 Best Things to do in Pisa, Italy

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Although most known for its iconic Leaning Tower, Pisa contains a myriad of other amazing artistic and architectural gems. Possibly more authentic than some other Italian cities inundated by tourists, it has a lively, laidback vibe thanks to its sizeable student population.

Once a major Roman port and maritime power, its wealth and prestige fueled the building of elegant palaces and piazze. The most famous complex is of course the Piazza dei Miracoli which is home to its Duomo, Baptistery and the spectacular Leaning Tower. Along with the Camposanto cemetery next to them, they make up the main area in town that tourists head to.

Outside of this bubble, it is a very peaceful and pleasant place to explore with plenty of things to do in Pisa itself as well as its surroundings. As well as some gorgeous Gothic churches and other tourist attractions, great beaches and historic cities also lie nearby. Add in its fun student-fueled nightlife and Pisa certainly warrants more than the mere afternoon that most visitors afford it.

Map of Pisa

17. Museo Nazionale di San Matteo

Packed with interesting old religious artifacts and artworks, the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo lies along the north bank of the Arno River. Set just a short stroll from the central Ponte di Mezzo, its rich collection occupies part of a Benedictine monastery.

Absolutely fascinating to peruse, its rare sculptures, ceramics and illuminated manuscripts cover the twelfth to eighteenth centuries. Its glittering treasures also include some phenomenal paintings and masterpieces by Donatello and Nicola Pisano among many others. Intricately carved and colorfully painted crucifixes can also be found in the rooms bordering the lovely building’s quiet little cloister.

Although it boasts so many breath-taking artworks, the museum’s galleries are unfortunately seldom visited by tourists. This actually made it even more special to us as there weren’t all the large crowds that you’d usually find in Florence for instance.

16. Ponte di Mezzo

While the simple bridge isn’t much to look at, Ponte di Mezzo provides arguably the best views over the Arno. Other than snapping some photos and selfies here, it is also the main way to get from one side of the city to the other.

Over the millennia, countless wood and brick bridges have spanned the river with the latest one only dating to 1950. After being destroyed during WWII, it was built out of reinforced concrete and coated in shining white Verona stone. From atop it, you can gaze over the colourful rows of buildings, gently curving their way alongside the reflective river. They look particularly majestic at sunset or softly lit up at night.

Each June, the bridge hosts the exciting Gioco del Ponte or Battle of the Bridge historic re-enactment. Originally fought with clubs and shields, this now sees costume-clad citizens attempt to push an iron cart past their opponents to the other side of the bridge. Accompanying the slow-moving show is an elaborate parade with people marching and milling about in medieval costumes.

15. Marina di Pisa

Although people don’t usually associate it with the sea, it takes just forty minutes to reach the pretty Marina di Pisa. Once you’ve seen the Leaning Tower and Duomo, it makes for a nice change from the historic center.

Perched alongside the Mediterranean, the small settlement was developed as a seaside resort in the late 1800s. Since then, both locals and tourists alike have flocked here in summer for its promenade, pebble beach and sea views. It has a very relaxed ambience while some attractive Art Nouveau villas can also be found alongside its yacht-filled marina.

Asides from taking the bus or car, you can also cycle along the Arno to the marina at its mouth. Once you arrive after your picturesque ride, there are plenty of seafront restaurants and cafes to check out. After days spent exploring old Italian cities, we thought its little beach was a great place to relax and unwind.

14. Palazzo dei Cavalieri

Back in the center of town is one of Pisa’s most striking buildings: the impressive Renaissance-style Palazzo dei Cavalieri. Now the main building of the Scuola Normale Superiore, it dominates one side of the equally arresting Knight’s Square.

Built in 1564 by the prominent painter and writer Giorgio Vasari, it originally served as a headquarters for the Knights of St. Stephen. Coating its fantastic facade are various busts and crests representing allegorical figures and zodiacal signs. This complex ‘sgrafitti’ scheme includes both the Medici Coat of Arms and sculptures of the Grand Dukes of Tuscany.

Also known to some as Palazzo della Carovana, it has a refined double-ramp staircase leading up to the entrance. Along with the enormous yet elegant facade behind it, this makes for some fabulous photos and viewing.

13. Orto Botanico

Just a short walk away are the lush grounds and landscaped gardens of Orto Botanico. The largest green space in the city center, its paths, flowerbeds and fountains are a treat to amble around slowly.

Remarkably the first university botanical garden in Europe, it was founded in 1544 under Cosimo I de’ Medici. Now divided into several sections, it includes everything from a leafy arboretum and fragrant herb gardens to flower-filled greenhouses and twinkling water features. Besides amazing old ginkgo trees and magnolias planted centuries ago, you can also see rare succulents and spiky cacti.

On top of all the verdant foliage, there is the seashell-studded facade of its sixteenth century botany school to examine. While here, you can also explore its excellent museum and wander about one of the earliest iron-frame hothouses in Italy.

12. San Piero a Grado

If you do visit Marina di Pisa, it is well worth stopping at San Piero a Grado along the way. Set almost exactly halfway between the seaside resort and city center, the basilica has a stupendous old interior for guests to admire and photograph.

Located at what was once the port of the Pisan Republic, the simple-looking church was constructed in the tenth century. According to legend, it was here that Saint Peter first alighted in Italy in 44 AD. A number of even earlier Roman buildings and the remains of a Paleo-Christian church have also been unearthed here.

While the church is nice but not that special to look at, the fading frescoes within are its real highlight. These convey just how old it is as colourful fragments lie next to almost perfectly preserved religious scenes. Below its graceful arches and painted saints, visitors can see the foundations of other older buildings excavated at the site.

11. Go to the beach at Marina di Vecchiano

For those after yet more sun, sea and sand, the magnificent Marina di Vecchiano is the perfect place to go. Lying just twenty minutes’ drive northwest of Pisa, its beach is ideal for lounging on lazily after days spent sightseeing.

Quite wild and untouched, its golden sands stretch more than four kilometers in total along the west coast of Italy. Backed by the massive Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli Natural Park, it extends from the mouth of the Serchio river to Torre del Lago.

Other than sunning yourself and swimming in the sea, you can explore the park’s dunes, forests and marshes. Scattered about are a few restaurants and cafes where you can rent sunbeds, parasols and enjoy some snacks and drinks. Ice cream sellers also patrol up and down its soft sands in summer.

10. Borgo Stretto

One of the city’s main streets, Borgo Stretto is lined by loads of bustling businesses and beautiful old buildings. From Piazza Garibaldi and Ponte di Mezzo, its enchanting arcades take you ever closer to the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Along with Corso Italia and Piazza XX Settembre on the opposite side of the bridge, it creates a large pedestrian area that is considered to be the heart of the city. Overlooked on either side by colorfully painted old buildings, the narrow street’s arcades now house countless shops, cafes and bars.

Mostly known for its exquisite architecture, lively ambience and high-end shops, it also borders some interesting historic sights. These include the tenth century San Michele in Borgo church and a rather plain house where Galileo once lived. A splendid statue of the infamous Italian astronomer which we much preferred does lie nearby, however.

9. Murale Tuttomondo di Keith Haring

In stark contrast to all the city’s centuries-old sights, Murale Tuttomondo is an eye-catching modern masterpiece. Painted by Keith Haring in 1989, it covers the entire back wall of the Sant’Antonio Abate church, just off Piazza Vittorio Emanuelle II.

After a chance encounter with an Italian university student, the imaginative American artist decided to create a mural in Pisa. The colourful piece depicts thirty figures, jiggling about all over the place in Haring’s signature cartoon-like style. Meant to represent peace and harmony, it has animals, humans and other anthropomorphic images all dancing together as one.

The gigantic artwork ended up being one of his most impactful – and last too – as he sadly died less than a year later. Just 31, he left an indelible mark on the art world and the city streets of Pisa too.

8. Palazzo Blu

Instantly recognizable due to its arresting azure color, Palazzo Blu hosts an outstanding collection of Italian artworks. In addition to its paintings and photos, fine furniture and archaeological findings, it puts on plenty of temporary exhibitions too.

So named due to its brilliant blue color, the historic palace overlooks the Arno, right in the centre of town. Also referred to as Palazzo Giuli Rosselmini Gualandi, it mostly dates to the fourteenth century, though some parts are even older.

At the cultural center, guests can explore the ancient mansion’s immaculately maintained suites and peruse its permanent collection. Asides from admiring its stately apartments and glittering treasures from centuries gone by, you can catch terrific temporary exhibits too. These focus on various topics such as photos from Italy’s fascist era and the avant-garde Macchiaioli movement.

7. Santa Maria della Spina

Just a couple of minutes’ walk along the Arno from the palace is the utterly captivating Santa Maria della Spina. After the Leaning Tower and Duomo, it is arguably the city’s most ornate and impressive architectural gem.

Originally erected around 1230, the small Pisan Gothic-style church was built to house a rare relic – a thorn or spina from Christ’s crown of thorns. Due to the river’s rising waters, it was eventually rebuilt stone by stone in a higher spot in 1871.

While it no longer contains the prized relic from the Holy Land, we were still astounded by its elegant architecture. As well as elaborately crafted spires and statues, the marble-clad church boasts several small rose windows and wonderful tabernacles. Inside is much simpler as only a few fine sculptures adorn its green and white striped walls. Overlooking everything is a marvelous painted ceiling added in when it was renovated in the late nineteenth century.

6. Museo Delle Aviotruppe

If you head just a little further on from the Leaning Tower of Pisa, you’ll come across the magnificent Museo Delle Aviotruppe. An absolute must for military history aficionados, its galleries are full of old weapons, uniforms and vehicles from various conflicts.

Originally established in 1971, it now displays an extensive collection of more than 3,000 interesting artifacts. While it mostly focuses on the history of the Italian Air Force and the two world wars, other rooms cover their UN missions in Afghanistan, Kosovo and Libya.

Very well-done, its informative displays are a delight to amble about with medals, machine guns and costume-clad mannequins all featuring. There are also loads of cool helicopters, camouflaged jeeps and armored personnel carriers scattered about that you can clamber in.

5. Knights’ Square

One of the most popular and picturesque places in Pisa, the Knights’ Square is surrounded by lots of stunning buildings. The political center of the city in medieval times, its pretty palazzi’s fine facades now make for some fabulous photos.

Located in the same spot as the ancient harbor of Pisa’s forum, it was redesigned by Giorgio Vasari in 1558. Lining it are not just the resplendent Palazzo dei Cavalieri and Church of Santo Stefano but the Palazzo dell’Orologio and small Church of St. Rocco too. There is also a superb statue of Cosimo I de’ Medici lying at its heart.

All together, its collection of atmospheric old buildings certainly makes for quite the sight. You can’t enter many though as they form part of the university. Twice a month, an excellent antiques market also takes over the square at the weekend.

4. Camposanto

Right next to the city’s three most famous sites is Camposanto; a monumental cemetery containing tons of ancient Roman sarcophagi and phenomenally old frescoes. Occupying the northern side of Cathedral Square, its cloistered quadrangle really is lovely to wander around.

Founded in 1277, it surrounds what is purported to be sacred soil shipped from Golgotha – the site of Jesus’ crucifixion. Bordering Camposanto or ‘holy field’ are marvelous marble cloisters and covered walkways, all decked with colourful frescoes. All in all, these remarkably cover a greater surface than that of the Sistine Chapel.

Other than admiring their striking scenes and all the brilliant blind arches, you can check out its three charming chapels. Although everything was severely damaged during WWII, you just have to see the incredible complex if you can.

3. Baptistery

Just a stone’s throw from the cemetery is the beautiful Baptistery which is the biggest in the whole of Italy. Together with the Duomo and Leaning Tower alongside it, its enormous dome dominates the centre of the Piazza dei Miracoli.

Built between 1152 and 1363 to replace an older baptistery, it exhibits a mesmerizing mix of Gothic and Renaissance-style features. A few centimeters taller than the Leaning Tower, it was designed by Diotisalvi and later worked on by Nicola Pisano. Cladding its ornately crafted exterior are countless statues, arches and other abstract floral and graphic decorations.

Often praised for its acoustics, the baptistery’s much simpler interior is most known for its delightful marble pulpit. Surrounded by sturdy columns keeping up the cupola, its reliefs depict various scenes from the New Testament in great detail.

2. Duomo di Pisa

While most people’s eyes are instantly drawn to the famous tower right next to, the Duomo di Pisa is every bit as impressive. Sparkling in the sun, its richly decorated exterior with all its multicolored mosaics and marble makes for a spectacular sight.

Displaying some absolutely exceptional Romanesque-style architecture, the colossal cathedral was consecrated in 1118. Perched atop its central nave is a hulking great dome while its fetching facade overlooks three heavy bronze doors below.

We were amazed just walking inside as two rows of imposing columns lead you to its glittering altar backed by gorgeous paintings. Above is a gold leaf coffered ceiling while important chapels, tombs and artworks lie to either side. Add in Giovanni Pisano’s elaborate pulpit and the Duomo easily rivals the cathedrals found in nearby Siena, Florence and Lucca.

1. Leaning Tower of Pisa

Renowned around the entire world, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is of course the city’s standout symbol and sight. Located alongside the Duomo and Baptistery, the iconic landmark is crowded around by tourists at almost any time of day.

The last addition to Piazza dei Miracoli, the tilting tower actually serves as the Duomo’s free-standing campanile. Completed between 1173 and 1372, the breath-taking bell tower was slowly erected over three stages to stop it sinking even further into the soft ground.

Aside from ogling at its amazing architecture and taking some fun photos propping it, you can climb the world-famous tower. Although quite pricey, we didn’t regret it at all as the views over the complex and city are so wonderful. Make sure to visit again in the evening to see the Leaning Tower, Duomo and Baptistery all majestically lit up against the dark night’s sky.

Where to Stay in Pisa

If you do have more time to spend in Pisa (and we definitely recommend it), it’s probably best to stay in or around its historic center. You can always also stay nearer the train station if you plan on doing a few day trips. As it is so small, almost everywhere is certain to be within walking distance anyway.

Located in a quiet spot just off Corso Italia, the four-star Hotel Bologna guarantees guests a relaxing stay. It has a charming look and feel with a buffet breakfast and airport shuttle service also being on offer. From here, you can reach the Leaning Tower in just fifteen minutes with countless shops, cafes and restaurants lying nearby.

Even closer is the superb Hotel Pisa Tower which is situated just 150 meters from the world-famous landmark! While its rooms and showers are a bit smaller and simpler, you can’t beat the three-star hotel’s central location.

How to get there

As it is home to Pisa International – the main airport for both Tuscany and Florence – the city is super well connected to the rest of Europe.

Its train station can also get you to top destinations like Florence and le Cinque Terre in about ninety minutes. Lucca and Livorno are even closer, while the scenic Siena and San Gimignano take just over two hours.

Once you arrive by either plane or train at Pisa, you can easily walk everywhere on foot.

Approximate travel times:

• Florence – 1 hour by car, 1 hour by train
• Lucca – 30 minutes by car, 30 minutes by train
• San Gimignano – 1.5 hours by car, 2 hours by train and bus
• Siena – 1.5 hours by car, 2 hours by train and bus
• Cinque Terre – 1.5 hours by car, 1 hour 30 minutes by train
• Genoa – 2 hours by car, 1 hour 30 minutes by train
• Rome – 3 hours by car, 2 hours by train

Best Time to Visit Pisa

Although June, July and August are all by far the hottest months with temperatures ranging from 25 to 29°C (77-84°F), they are also the peak season for visiting Pisa. While Piazza dei Miracoli and the Leaning Tower are always crowded, the rest of the city doesn’t get too busy.

This is because most daytrippers only stop by briefly with many locals heading to the nearby coast to escape the heat. Prices are at their highest however during the summertime. Lots of shops and restaurants also close in August.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn – so from around April to May and September to October – are arguably the best times to visit. This is when the weather is still sunny and warm, and there are fewer crowds. The higher chance of rain can, however, dampen your trip.

A further drop in temperature to around 10 to 15°C (so 50-59°F) occurs between November and March. Unpredictable weather also accompanies this. Often quite foggy and windy, the city livens up a bit around Christmas when colourful decorations and lights brighten the quiet streets.

One of the highlights of the year has to be the Gioco del Ponte in June. This ancient tradition sees challengers from different quarters of the city attempting to push a heavy cart across the Mezzo bridge to beat their enemy on the other side.

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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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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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Latest stories from Pisa

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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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Pisa

With a wonky tower that firmly put this small city on the map, Pisa is everything you would expect from a location in the Italian region of Tuscany. Everywhere you look, the charming architecture of days gone by is enchanting.

Vespa’s zoom down narrow streets and locals drink their morning Espressos on outdoor tables outside characterful cafes. The famed leaning tower of Pisa is a tourist hotspot, where you’ll spot ambitious visitors attempting to get the perfect Instagram selfie of themselves pushing back the tower.

Pisa is also famed for being the home of Galileo Galilei, credited as being the father of modern physics. There are plenty of great reasons to visit this amazing Italian city. In this ultimate guide to Pisa, we will show you everything you need to know in order to plan your visit to Pisa.

Our guide includes what to do, where to say, what food to indulge in and plenty of helpful travel tips for your trip to Pisa.

This ultimate travel guide to Pisa will show you all the most beautiful places in Pisa, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Pisa and things to do in Pisa which will help you in planning a trip to Pisa.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Pisa

Pisa is easy to reach, being a well-connected city in Italy. The city has its own airport, and by bus, you can reach the center in roughly 5 minutes.

Pisa Central railway station connects the city to important train routes throughout the country, making traveling to and from here easy.

There are also various bus services that have affordable routes to Pisa from across both Italy and also from other European destinations.

What to expect in Pisa

In Pisa, Italian is the spoken language. As the city is a very popular tourist destination, English is well spoken and understood too.

Similar to many other European destinations, you will find the currency in Pisa is the Euro . ATM’s are widely available throughout the city, and credit cards are often accepted at both restaurants and hotels.

At restaurants, most locals do not leave a tip, but it is common for visitors to leave 10 to 15 percent if a service charge is not included. At cafes, it is encouraged to ‘leave a coin’ if you had your coffee at the counter, or tip 10 percent if you had a table.

When taking a taxi in Pisa, it is suggested you round up your fair to the nearest whole euro.

How to get around Pisa

As Pisa is a relatively small city, getting around is often quick and easy. Walking is a great way to see the sights and experience the ambiance of the city.

As an example, it takes just 20 minutes to get from the main train station to the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

There is a local bus service that operates in Pisa. Like other bus services across Italy, it is important to note that you will need to buy your ticket from a ticket office or newsstand before boarding the bus.

Similar to many popular tourist destinations, in Pisa, you will find a Hop on Hop Off Bus. You can purchase a 24-hour ticket which will give you unlimited access to the buses two routes, and a total of 15 stops.

The best time to visit Pisa

In order to avoid the crowds at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it is worth visiting the city outside the main tourist season. Instead, look to visit Pisa between April and June, or September and October.

You will find the weather to be relatively good, but the city will be much less crowded than it is in the main summer months of July and August.

For an extra special event, in June each year, Pisa holds the Luminara San Ranieri . Over two days, this annual festival lights up Pisa with over 70,000 candle lanterns.

Things to do in Pisa

Leaning tower of pisa.

Of course, the Leaning Tower Of Pisa is one of the highlights when it comes to things to do in Pisa. This freestanding bell tower has pretty much become the icon of the city, known worldwide for its dramatic lean.

The tower took roughly 344 years to build, and just a few years into its construction one side began sinking into the soft ground, hence it’s lean.

Tickets to visit the tower can be purchased online until the day before you plan on visiting. Buying your ticket online will also help you avoid the long lines.

Keep in mind you are only allotted 30 minutes to climb to the top of the tower, enjoy the great views of Pisa, and clamber back down the 294 steps again. The entry cost of the leaning tower of Pisa is roughly 32.45 Euros.

The tower is located in the cities main square, the Piazza dei Miracoli, where Pisa’s other main sites such as the cathedral of Pisa, The Baptistery and, Camposanto Monumentale are all also located.

The Baptistery

Dedicated to St John the Baptist, the Baptistery is the largest of its kind in Italy, and a must see in Pisa.

Its construction began in the 12th century, replacing an older baptisery that was once here. This is also where Galileo Galilei was baptized in 1564.

Camposanto Monumentale

One of 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites found throughout Tuscany, the Camposanto Monumentale houses sunning frescoes from the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries.

This cemetery is both a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and a historically important site in central Pisa. The Camposanto Monumentale is, therefore, a must visit site when visiting Pisa.

Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta

With strong influences from the Byzantium period, the cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta represents the past wealth of the city of Pisa. Like the leaning tower, the cathedral has also notably sunken into the ground.

Museo Nazionale of San Matteo

Full of works taken from the historic building found around Pisa, the national museum of San Matteo grants visitors a look into the array of historic art from the city. Here you will find antique paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.

Santa Maria della Spina

This small Pisan Gothic church has recently been restored and open to the public. Fascinatingly, the name of this church actually comes from the reliquary the church acquired in 1333, containing a thorn from Jesus’ crown.

Piazza dei Cavalieri

The Piazza dei Cavalieri, also known as Knights Square, is the second main square of Pisa. This was the medieval political center of the city.

Later, it became the base of the Order of the Knights of Saint Stephen. Nowadays, it is home to Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa, a university founded by Napolean.

Shopping in Borgo Stretto and Corso Italia

For shopping in Pisa, Boro Stretto and Corso Italia are the two best areas of the city. Both these streets are bustling with gelateria’s, cafes and various stores selling all kinds of goods.

These are both great places to take a leisurely stroll. Here, you’ll also find lots of great places to eat when in Pisa.  Window shopping in both of these areas is also a great free thing to do in Pisa.

Verdi theatre

Be wowed by the spectacular interior of the historic Verdi Theatre in Pisa. As well as being extremely aesthetically pleasing, the theatre still hosts many performances, including concerts and Opera.

Tuttomondo Mural

You may think it unusual to find a piece by an American muralist in the heart of Pisa, but this is exactly what you will discover. This creation happened by chance after artist Keith Haring met a Pisan student on the streets of New York.

That chance meeting led to this bright puzzle like mural, created to represent world peace, on the church of Saint Anthony in the center of the city.

What to eat in Pisa

Pisa has taken traditional Tuscan cooking, and put its own hyperlocal spin on it, creating some flavors very unique to the city.

You’ll find the cities staple ingredients are game meat, foods from the sea and the river, and many simple vegetables. Below you will find out more about what you should eat when visiting Pisa . Life doesn’t get much better than when it involves authentically cooked, local Italian food.

Hearty Soups – Pisan’s love to eat frog, and frog soup is a popular local dish. Another soup eaten widely in Pisa is made from San Michele White Beans.

Pisan Pesto – Unlike its popular Genoese counterpart, Pisan Pesto also includes pine kernels. Make sure to try it while in Pisa. It’s especially good with spaghetti.

Meat and seafood – Game meat is a popular main in Pisa. Particular favorites are pheasant meat, rabbit and wild boar. Fish is also a big staple of the Pisan diet.

Try grilled grey mullet, Mediterranean spiderfish or sweet and sour cod. A local dish that is seafood based is Spaghetti o tagliolini, a pasta meal that has river clams.

Torta co’ Bischeri – This is a dessert dish that is a particular local specialty. This pastry is a tart made with rice, pinenuts, chocolate pieces, candied fruit, spices, raisins, and maraschino liqueur. This is the traditional ‘cake’ of Pisa.

Where to stay in Pisa

The Santa Maria neighborhood is a great place to stay when visiting Pisa. This neighborhood is both central and quiet.

All of the cities historical sights are easily accessed from here, making it a great base for avid sightseers. In the cobbled streets of this neighborhood, you’ll also find little bars, quaint boutiques, and tasty restaurants.

Another great part of the city to stay in is Sant’ Antonio. Its close proximity to the central station is great for anyone coming with a lot of luggage or arriving late at night or early in the morning.

This neighborhood is also close to Pisa’s main shopping areas. Airbnb is a great option for short and long stays.

Tours to do in Pisa

Pasta making class.

Leave Pisa with more than just memories with this immersive class teaching you the secrets of the Italian craft of pasta making.

The best part about this experience is your lesson is taught by local resident Cesarina , who will guide you through the recipes of three of the regions authentic and delicious pasta dishes.

Guided walking tour of Pisa

Taking a walking tour will allow you to see the sights, whilst learning all about their history and significance. You’ll be lead by a knowledgeable local guide, who will be full of hints and tips to help you see the best of the city.

• Pisa Food Tour

Explore the city with a local guide , who will help you eat your way through the tastiest cuisine Pisa has to offer.

Not only will your taste buds be delighted as you explore the wonders of Tuscan cooking, but your guide will also teach you all about the culture and history behind each dish, adding an extra layer onto your culinary experience. 

• Pisa Segway Tour

Zip around the city on a segway in a tour that combines historic sightseeing with epic fun. Over three hours, you’ll glide around, taking in all of Pisa’s top sights, such as Piazza dei Miracoli and Sapienza Palace.

Winery tour

One of the best things about Italy is its wine, its so good it can make grown men cry. Get a taste of some of Tuscany’s best wines by taking part in a guided wine tour .

Day trips from Pisa

Cinque terre tour.

The colourfull and dramatic coastal villages of Cinque Terre are picture perfect, after all, they are famed for their beauty and charm.

Take a day trip from Pisa to the coast and experience the magic of Cinque Terre for yourself. The best thing is Cinque Terre can be reached from Pisa by train in roughly an hour an a half. Alternatively, you can always take part in a day tour leaving from Pisa.

Visit the villages of Vernazza, Riomaggiore, Monterosso, and Manarola, all of which are perfect places to explore. Whilst there, enjoy a swim in the piercing blue sea or try a taste of limoncino, a popular local lemon liquor.

When in Tuscany, why not visit Siena? You can reach Siena from Pisa in under 2 hours by train. Many have referred to Siena as Italy’s loveliest medieval city, and it’s easy to see why.

The grand Piazza Del Campo, or the main square, is at the very heart of the city. Away from this unique shell-shaped plaza, there are plenty more historic sights to see, including the Torre del Mangia and the Duomo of Siena.

Another incredible Tuscan city to visit is Luca. Taking a day trip from Pisa is quick and simple. There are great transport links between the two, which are only 17KM apart, meaning you can reach Luca in 30 minutes by train or bus.

The city sits on the banks of the Serchio river, but what it is most well known for is the well-preserved renaissance walls that run around the city.

Due to the incredible amount of religious structures found in Luca, the city has earned itself the nickname the city of a hundred churches.

Make sure to visit Lucca Cathedral, San Michele in Foro and Guinigi Tower during your visit.

Home to many artistic gems of the Renaissance period, Florence is the capital of the entire region of Tuscany, and well worth a visit from nearby Pisa.

By train, it only takes around 1 hour to reach Florence from Pisa. That’ll leave you with plenty of time left to sightsee and explore.

One of the highlights of Florence is its stunning dome topped cathedral, which towers over the city. For art lovers, Florence houses work from artistic greats such as Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, and Leonardo Da Vinci.

Recommend tours in Pisa

• Cinque Terre Tour by Minivan from Pisa
• Pisa Off-The-Beaten-Path 2-Hour Small-Group Walking Tour
• Small Group Pisa Day Trip to Siena and San Gimignano by Minivan Including Wine Tasting
• Skip-the-line Leaning Tower of Pisa Guided Small-Group Tour
• Lucca Barga and Garfagnana Hills Full-Day Trip by Minivan from Pisa
• Half-day Wine Tour in the Tuscan’s Hills from Pisa
• Monumental Complex of Pisa Cathedral Square
• Leaning Tower of Pisa Entry Ticket
• Best of Pisa Guided Walking Tour with Leaning Tower Entry Ticket
• Private pasta-making class at a Cesarina’s home with tasting in Pisa
• Local market visit and private cooking class at a Cesarina’s home in Pisa
• Night Tour of Pisa Must-see Sites with Local Guide

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Tourist map of Pisa

In the Tuscany region this small but exceptional corner is sheltered. Its main image, the leaning tower is an icon in world tourism, however, an endless number of visual attractions contained in museums, cathedrals and squares, will make you rethink the concept that this city can only be visited by its tower, do not miss anything with this tourist map of Pisa. This page takes you to the land that saw the birth of his illustrious son Galileo Galilei, where Romanesque art dresses its main monuments, easily accessible and taking a picture here is a point in favor of our experience as travelers. The hospitality of its inhabitants is very well received by the large number of visitors and its tourist office has the doors open to provide all the necessary information. The Middle Ages and the rebirth of Tuscany concentrated in this special place are waiting for you, with its warmth and Mediterranean aroma.

• 1 Tourist map of Pisa
• 2 Pisa Tourist Guide
• 3 What to see in Pisa
• 4 Pisa Hotel Map

Much is said about its attractions but little is known about its history, anyway there is no exact documented date to explain it. It is presumed that it had origins in the times of ancient Greece. The fact is that by the 16th century it was taking on a reputation for its port activity because its location in the central-western part of the region gave it the opportunity to connect with the Mediterranean. The capital of the province of Pisa and one of the cities that attracts the most tourism worldwide as well as its neighbor Florence. Its almost 100 thousand inhabitants occupy this small portion composed of about 185 square kilometers of surface. Its marshy conditions have allowed it that characteristic touch in its main towers at the time of construction. Thanks to this it has been a world reference in tourism and the large influx of people has brought them progress.

Tours around its main tourist sites can be done in a comfortable and easy way. Most of its architectural jewels are concentrated in the heart of Pisa represented by Piazza dei Miracoli. Here the impeccable marble-based Romanesque style shines in its main temples such as the Baptistery of Pisa, the Cathedral of Pisa and of course the Leaning Tower. Even Byzantine and Moorish art sneaks in its details capturing the attention of tourists. Moreover, the city has managed to bring out its monuments in the midst of the geographical accident represented by its marshy soil. A walk along the Arno River will take you to beautiful architectural landscapes as well as to nearby villages to complete the tour.

Pisa Tourist Guide

If you are in Florence, you can take advantage of Pisa as a getaway to visit the tourist sites of greatest impact. Although many people like to make a plan apart, as this small and comforting city provokes to stay a couple of days to get out of the routine. It deserves a whole day and part of the other to understand that its places are not limited to the crowds in its main square, Pisa itself is one of the cities with more souvenir shops in Italy, hobnobbing with Rome itself, and exploring its curiosities as well as its places for leisure will make you lose track of time. Continue with this Pisa tourist guide where we will put all the information regarding places to visit.

What to see in Pisa

The leaning tower.

You can’t talk about Pisa without mentioning its famous leaning tower, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Designed to be a bell tower, it was built on an unstable subsoil and the general outline showed a margin of error as to the strength of its foundations, but this fact does not deny its beauty and authenticity. In 1174 construction began, which thanks to this architectural accident, was never thought of as giving it world fame and making it the Italian emblem par excellence. In fact, during the construction process, attempts were made to prevent it from leaning, leaving all those attempts in vain, without knowing that this failure of its foundations would be the reason for its charm. For all this it deserves its place among the most famous buildings in the world, and it deserves to go at least once in a lifetime to have a good perspective photo taken.

The Cathedral of Pisa

Tower and Cathedral, together are a beauty, but to admire only the Cathedral without its bell tower is also a spectacle. Free of charge, it is the main church of Pisa and its origins date back to the Middle Ages. It has its beginnings, specifically in the early eleventh century. Being designed with various style influences such as Byzantine and Islamic fulfilled the purpose of demonstrating its power and international recognition. It is possible to say that the mixture of styles that it possesses was totally planned unlike other temples. It was of great influence on the architectural style of the Tuscany region; by the period of its culmination it was the largest in Europe. Many of its decorations come from the war riots as its granite columns, to give an example. These elements contain the most appealing of each of the conquered territories.

Baptistery of Pisa

This beautiful monument is made of marble. It is the second oldest building in the city and many of those who visit it come to try to solve the enigma that its architect left in certain hidden messages scattered in certain specific points; dare to decipher it. It was built between 1,152 and 1,363 mixing the romantic and gothic architectural styles, and achieving a totally different atmosphere in each of its levels. Through it you will get wonderful views of the Duomo and the Leaning Tower without standing in long queues. A characteristic element of the Baptistery is its acoustics, which you can check to see if you can produce any sound. Its location allows you to reach it from any side of Pisa, even on foot. It is an architectural work among jewels of the same species, part of that family that also functions as a viewpoint.

Piazza dei Miracoli

This walled square is located in the northwest of the city of Pisa. It has large gardens that are examples of care and preservation. It is named after the poet D’Annunzio. One day, he was observing from above the monuments that make it up, he could only associate it with the word miracle. Although in our days it is also known as the Duomo Square or Cathedral Square. It is among the main attractions throughout Italy and has an emblematic collection of medieval art. Access to the square is completely free. Watching the way the green of its lawn contrasts with the marble of the surrounding monuments will make you feel like that ancient poet and you will also want to have it in the background during your stay.

Church of Santa Maria della Spina

The River Arno crosses Florence and ends in Pisa. Santa Maria della Spina has stood on its banks since 1230. It is a very small church in a town that stands out for its architecture. But what it lacks in size it has in beauty. The work done on its impeccable details captures the attention of locals and foreigners alike. The concentration of so much beauty in so little space breaks the paradigm of the traditional cathedrals that are used in Italy, in relation to size and detail. By day the white marble with which it was built reflects the sun of Pisa. At night the lights of the city ennoble it in such a way that it becomes the protagonist of the moon. And in times when the river water is calm, the reflection of the church on it is a sublime visual spectacle.

Ponte di Mezzo

Since we are talking about the banks of the Arno River, this bridge has been crossing it since the 20th century, and it is right in the middle of the city. It starts from the Square dedicated to the famous military man Garibaldi, and ends at the Square 20 de Septiembre. The bridge, which is now in operation, is relatively new. Because it was the target of bombing during the Second World War, its original facade was severely damaged. It is the most entertaining place in town on the last Sunday in June as it is the venue for the “Gioco del Ponte” or game of the bridge, a pitched battle in which the districts of Pisa face each other for their conquest. If the date of the game does not coincide, the cement and stone construction is just as beautiful; especially if you watch the sunrise from there.

Sinopie Museum

This simple construction has a brick facade, little known to the public, but with a supremely interesting content. It is the Museum of the Sinopie, located in a building that dates from the second half of the thirteenth century. It exhibits the brilliant art of his sketches. In the headquarters that until 1969 was a hospital, the sick and pilgrims were treated there. Unique in its style, it would be an interesting option for those curious about art and history. The sketches exhibited there offer the visitor a vision of how the great works it houses have been conceived from the beginning, thanks to their interpretation, as well as the first idea recorded about them. At the same time, it explains works that for various reasons have not managed to preserve their integrity until today.

Palazzo Blu

Its name is the result of the characteristic blue that has been captured for a long time in its walls; property of one of the most influential families of the time. Located by the river, with its different color from those usually seen in the other facades, it is a projection to the art and culture that it houses in its museum form. It contains and exhibits works of great artistic richness from local exponents in its permanent collections.  Since it was founded in 1950, it has been dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the works of paintings and sculptures related in some way to Pisa. Touring the Blue Palace is a true journey back in time. The role played by this building as an art promoter makes it worthy of a space among the most important buildings in the city.

Riomaggiore

This colourful village on the coast is just a few minutes away from Pisa. After a comfortable, quick train ride you can take it at the station of La Spezia. Right at the next stop this place is ready to enjoy the beauty of Cinque Terre; an area that in ancient times was a secret paradise and today is quite touristy. It consists of 5 small villages by the sea connected by a very old road; many travellers used to come here for walking tours and whose tradition still survives today. Riomaggiore is the first stop of the tour, 9 minutes walk by train specifically. In the high part of the village, passing the castle, there is an incredible viewpoint ideal not only to observe the landscape and the terraces, but also to breathe the essence of Riomaggiore.

Pisa Hotel Map

At this point you’ll probably have loved Pisa, as it is one of the most frequented cities in the whole region, which means you’ll spend more than one day there. So the best thing is to have good accommodation to better live the experience in Tuscany. The usual thing is to seek refuge in the city centre, where the scenery of its main monuments mixes with the sunset and sunset, becoming a real gift before the rest. Pisa’s hotel map is designed to put the various options on the table and thus choose the favourite spot according to the price-quality ratio. Hotel La Pace is centrally located, with the advantage of being close to the bus station and easy access to Piazza dei Miracoli. We recommend this simple but comfortable accommodation. -/maphotels/flat

Video of the most impressive places in Pisa