Who hasn’t heard of Italian Pisa and its famous Leaning Tower? Every Italy lover should have this city on their bucket list. Pisa is a city in Tuscany that hides a rich history, countless small churches, and almost everyone leaves with a photo of themselves “holding” the Leaning Tower. In this guide I will share with you Pisa, Italy: 37 Best Things to Do and See.
When to Visit Pisa
Visiting Pisa depends on your preferences, but the best months when the weather is just right are March and April.
Summer months are usually warm and sunny, but they can also be unbearably hot. In winter, during the off-season, the city is quiet and temperatures range from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius.
Where to Stay in Pisa
Most sights in Pisa are concentrated within walking distance, so it’s best to stay right in the center:
- cheaper option: Helvetia Pisa Tower,
- mid-range option: Hotel Bologna,
- luxury option: Hotel di Stefano.
Pisa, Italy: 37 Best Things to Do and See
Even though the following list starts with the famous Leaning Tower, Pisa is not just about this tilted structure. The town is beautiful, has a unique atmosphere, and most importantly, it has a lot to offer.
TIP: Where to Go for a Vacation in Italy
The Leaning Tower
What everyone yearns to see in Pisa is, of course, the Leaning Tower. You’ll find it in the Square of Miracles (Piazza dei Miracoli), and you certainly won’t miss it with all the tourists posing. The tower is built in Romanesque style and is 56 meters tall.
For an iconic photo of you ‘leaning’ on the tower, it’s enough to view it from below, along with the other historical landmarks you’ll find in the square. But if you want to have a unique experience and climb the tower, then you’ll need to buy tickets — preferably in advance.
You can buy them either on-site or on the official website. If you want to avoid queues, then purchase your tickets on the GetYourGuide portal.
TIP: You can find all information about the Leaning Tower in another article.
Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The largest building in the Square of Miracles is this medieval Romanesque-style cathedral. It is known for its impressive facade with rich decoration and arcades. In the middle of the facade, you will find a trio of bronze doors, which are a significant work by the Italian sculptor Bonanno Pisano.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is also known for being the burial place of the Italian mathematician and physicist Galileo Galilei, although his tomb is not in the main area but in a side chapel.
Baptistery of St. John the Baptist
Another significant part of the Square of Miracles is the Baptistery of St. John the Baptist. This baptistery is also built in Romanesque style and is one of the largest in the world. It has a conical roof with a small lantern, which is part of its characteristic appearance.
Piazza Dei Miracoli
As may already be apparent, Pisa has its Square of Miracles. The square has become one of the most important tourist and cultural centers, primarily because it houses all the exceptional buildings.
The Square of Miracles features three main architectural landmarks: Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Baptistery of St. John the Baptist, and the Leaning Tower . In addition, the Camposanto Cemetery is also located here.
Camposanto Cemetery
The Camposanto Cemetery is also part of the historical complex in the Square of Miracles. It is surrounded by a wall and serves as the final resting place for many prominent figures from Tuscany.
Camposanto was founded in 1278 and is one of the oldest cemeteries in Europe. Its name translates to ‘holy field’. One of the main attractions of the cemetery is a long wall adorned with tombstones, sculptures, and frescoes.
Piazza Dei Cavalieri
In the historic Piazza dei Cavalieri square, you will find a number of significant buildings and city landmarks.
The centerpiece of the square is the Palazzo della Carovana, built in the 16th century, which once served as the seat of the Knights’ University. The palace facade is adorned with magnificent frescoes and reliefs.
The square also features a statue of Cosimo I de’ Medici. Another significant building in Piazza dei Cavalieri is the Palazzo dell’Orologio.
Church of Santo Stefano Dei Cavalieri
The Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri is located in Piazza dei Cavalieri and is associated with the Knights’ University. The church was built in 1565 on the site of an older church and is an example of Mannerist architecture.
Santa Maria Della Spina
Santa Maria della Spina is a small Gothic church. It is located near the Arno River and is known for its ornate architecture.
The church was built in the 14th century and served as a chapel for merchants and sailors who came to Pisa. This church is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings in Pisa, and although it is smaller than other landmarks in the city, it attracts tourists’ attention with its uniqueness.
Borgo Stretto
Borgo Stretto is one of the main streets in the historic part of Pisa. You’ll find numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes here. Borgo Stretto stretches from Ponte di Mezzo, one of the three bridges over the Arno River in Pisa, towards Piazza dei Cavalieri. The street is lined with historic buildings.
This street is considered one of the most vibrant and characteristic parts of the city. It is definitely worth a visit.
Giardino Scotto
Giardino Scotto is a public park that offers relaxation and greenery in the historic city center. It is named after the Scotto family, who previously owned the land on which it was built.
Ponte Di Mezzo
Ponte di Mezzo is one of the three main bridges over the Arno River. It connects the historic part of the city with the more modern districts on the other side of the river. While walking around the city, you can enjoy magnificent views.
Torre Guelfa
Torre Guelfa is a historic tower built at the end of the 13th century as part of a fortress constructed by the Guelph faction during political conflicts in Italy.
Parco Naturale Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli
Parco Naturale Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli is a nature reserve in the vicinity of Pisa. It stretches along the Tyrrhenian Sea coast, and you’ll find natural areas, wetlands, and forests here.
The park has marked trails and paths that are ideal for walking and cycling.
San Michele in Borgo
San Michele in Borgo is a church located in the Borgo district. It was originally built in the 4th or 5th century but has been rebuilt and expanded several times.
Its current form bears traces of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The church’s facade is adorned with statues and reliefs depicting biblical figures and motifs.
Cittadella Nuova
Cittadella Nuova is a historic fortress from the 16th century. It was built for the city’s defense, and today you can walk among its high walls and turrets, soaking in the spirit of ancient times.
Church of San Paolo a Ripa d’Arno
On the left bank of Pisa stands the Church of San Paolo a Ripa d’Arno, which was built in the 4th century. The church’s facade is adorned with statues and reliefs, and inside you’ll discover valuable works of art, including several paintings. The church has always been connected to the Arno River and played a significant role in the city’s history.
Palazzo Blu
Palazzo Blu is a significant historic building, and as its name suggests, it is also blue. Palazzo Blu was built in the 14th century and was originally a private residence. Over the centuries, it underwent several reconstructions, but some of its original historical elements have been preserved.
Today, it serves as a cultural center and gallery.
Church of San Paolo all’Orto
The Church of San Paolo all’Orto is located near the Arno River and is among the city’s other significant landmarks. The church served local communities as a place for prayers and religious rituals.
Piazza Garibaldi
One of the other beautiful squares in Pisa is Piazza Garibaldi, named after the Italian hero Giuseppe Garibaldi. The square is located in the center of Pisa and is surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II
The square in the city center is named Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. It is a good starting point for visiting other local landmarks.
Church of San Michele Degli Scalzi
The Church of San Michele degli Scalzi was built in the 11th century in Romanesque style. One of the church’s significant features is its bell tower, which has a characteristic conical shape.
Palazzo dell’Orologio
Palazzo dell’Orologio is a palace that is interesting because you will find a clock face on its facade. This clock tower historically served to tell time to the city’s inhabitants.
Villa Medici
In Pisa, you will also find the beautiful Renaissance Villa Medici, which served as the summer residence of the prominent and influential Italian Medici family. Today, it serves as a cultural and art center, and some of its parts are accessible to the public.
Museo dell’Opera Del Duomo
Visit the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, where you can view artworks and artifacts associated with the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and other buildings in Pisa.
The museum’s collection includes sculptures, sculptural elements, paintings, stained glass, and other artworks.
Sinopie Museum
The Sinopie Museum is another interesting place in Pisa. Here you can view so-called sinopie, which are preliminary drawings or sketches used in the creation of fresco paintings. These sketches were transferred to the wall and then subsequently painted over with frescoes.
Basilica of San Piero a Grado
The Basilica of San Piero a Grado has a rich history and is considered one of the oldest Christian sanctuaries in the area.
University Botanical Garden
When visiting Pisa, you must not forget the botanical garden, also known as Orto Botanico di Pisa. This garden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe.
Orto Botanico di Pisa was founded in 1544 at the behest of the great Tuscan ruler Cosimo I de’ Medici. The garden was designed as a research and educational facility where various plant species could be cultivated and studied for medicinal, economic, and scientific purposes.
Beaches and Swimming
Pisa is located on the Tyrrhenian Sea coast, but for swimming and lounging on the beach, you’ll have to head to the areas around the city.
Marina Di Pisa
If you’re looking for a sandy beach and swimming near the city, then Marina di Pisa is perfect for you. The resort is located right on the Tyrrhenian Sea coast and has an extensive promenade with restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Marina di Pisa is approximately 10 kilometers from the center of Pisa and is easily accessible by car or public transport.
Tirrenia
Another coastal resort near Pisa is Tirrenia. The beaches in Tirrenia are known for their fine sand and clear sea. The resort also offers opportunities for various water activities and sports.
Excursions in the Surroundings
If you get tired of Pisa, then the city is an excellent starting point for trips around Tuscany. You can also choose excursions on the GetYourGuide portal.
TIP: If you are an Italy lover, read our article about Genoa.
Cinque Terre
An absolute must for a trip around Pisa is the Cinque Terre National Park. It lies on the Ligurian Riviera and consists of five picturesque villages. Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is definitely worth a visit.
The houses here are colorful and nestled into the rocks, the sea is crystal clear, and the nature is pristine.
TIP: If you want to know more about Cinque Terre, read our article.
Florence
Visit the capital of the Tuscan region, which is Florence. The city is located about 80 kilometers from Pisa, and you can get there by car, bus, or train. Florence is rich in history, culture, and art.
Lucca
Lucca is another beautiful city in Tuscany that is worth visiting. The city is small and located roughly between Pisa and Florence. Lucca is characterized by its peaceful environment and the charm of the Tuscan countryside.
Siena
Siena is a city that combines history, art, and tradition. This picturesque city is known for its impressive square, medieval architecture, and rich cultural scene.
Massa
Massa is located in the northwestern part of Tuscany, not far from the Apennines. The city also has access to the Tyrrhenian Sea coast and boasts a rich history and beautiful nature.
Carrara
Carrara is an Italian city, primarily known for marble quarrying. I recommend visiting the city to all lovers of history, art, and geology.
Apuan Alps
The Apuan Alps are a mountain range in northwestern Italy, part of the Apennines. They cover an area of approximately 2,500 square kilometers. The region is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How to Get to Pisa?
The nearest international airport is Galileo Galilei Airport in Pisa. The city is also well accessible by train or bus from other Italian cities.
How to Get from the Airport to Pisa City Center?
There’s a train station just a few meters from the terminal, but the airport is also quite close to the city center, so if you don’t have much luggage, you can even walk.
How many days to spend in Pisa?
One day is usually enough to see the main attractions. If you want to explore the city in more detail, you can stay for more days.
What is the most famous landmark in Pisa?
The most famous landmark is Piazza dei Miracoli with the Leaning Tower, cathedral, and baptistery.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
