Home to the iconic Leaning Tower, this Tuscan city boasts Romanesque architecture, a historic university, and vibrant trattorias. Explore the Piazza dei Miracoli and savor local gelato.
Pisa, a city in Italy, is famous for its Leaning Tower, but there's more to explore in this historic Tuscan destination. As you walk through the medieval streets, you'll encounter ornate churches like Santa Maria della Spina, bustling squares such as Piazza dei Cavalieri, and the prestigious University of Pisa. The Arno River flows through the city, with elegant buildings lining its banks, reminding visitors of Pisa's history as a powerful maritime republic. Beyond the main attractions, Pisa delights with its authentic Tuscan cuisine and convenient location near beaches and the rolling countryside.
The Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli
The Leaning Tower is the most recognizable structure in the Piazza dei Miracoli, a large green lawn with several white marble buildings. You can climb the 294 steps to the top for a view over Pisa. The square also includes the Pisa Cathedral, with its distinctive striped marble exterior, and the circular Baptistery, which has unique acoustic properties. Take time to visit the Camposanto, a monumental cemetery featuring frescoes and Gothic architecture.
Beyond the Tower: Historic Landmarks
Pisa has many other architectural attractions besides the Leaning Tower. Walk along the Arno River to see the small Santa Maria della Spina church, an excellent example of Pisan Gothic style. In the city center, explore the Piazza dei Cavalieri, the political center of medieval Pisa. Here you'll see the Palazzo della Carovana with its decorated facade. For a less crowded experience, walk through the narrow streets of the Santa Maria neighborhood to observe medieval towers and palaces.
Museums and Art
The Museo Nazionale di San Matteo houses a large collection of medieval and Renaissance art. You'll find works by important Tuscan artists and a collection of illuminated manuscripts. For more modern exhibits, visit Palazzo Blu, a museum and cultural center that hosts temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. The Keith Haring mural "Tuttomondo" on the wall of Sant'Antonio church adds a contemporary touch to the historic center.
Tuscan Cuisine in Pisa
Pisa's food scene combines Tuscan traditions with coastal influences. Try local dishes like torta co' bischeri, a rice and chocolate tart, or bordatino, a thick soup made with corn, beans, and vegetables. For a quick meal, taste cecina, a flatbread made from chickpea flour. The area around Borgo Stretto, the main shopping street, has many trattorias and restaurants. For a local experience, go to the Piazza delle Vettovaglie, a square with food markets and casual eateries.
University Life
The University of Pisa, established in 1343, contributes to the city's intellectual atmosphere. Because of the student population, you'll discover many affordable cafes, bars, and bookshops. Take a walk through the Botanical Garden, one of the oldest in the world, maintained by the university. In the evenings, students and locals gather in the area around Piazza Garibaldi, enjoying aperitivo at outdoor cafes.
Day Trips from Pisa
Pisa's location allows for easy exploration of Tuscany. The walled city of Lucca is a 30-minute train ride away, where you can walk or cycle along the Renaissance-era city walls. If you enjoy beaches, visit the coastal town of Viareggio, with its long sandy shores and Art Nouveau architecture. To experience the Tuscan countryside, take a trip to the nearby Colline Pisane wine region to taste local wines and olive oils.
