The Tuscan city of Pisa is world famous for the Leaning Tower, but you’ll find much more to discover in this charming Italian city. The historic centre, with its scenic winding cobblestone streets and medieval architecture, runs alongside the River Arno. Find bars and restaurants serving organic food nestled among the historic architectural attractions.
Car parking in Pisa is scarce and the city is best negotiated on foot, by bicycle or using public transport. The first place most people visit is the freestanding campanile (bell tower) of the Duomo, famously known as the Leaning Tower.
The walled Piazza dei Miracoli is where the tower and cathedral are located. In the piazza you can also see two other excellent examples of Pisa’s distinct architecture: the Baptistery and the cemetery, called the Camposanto.
A tour through the historic centre will take you past the trees of the Piazza Martiri della Libertà. Stop at Knights’ Square where students of the prestigious Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa live. Admire the façades of the Palazzo della Carovana and Palace of the Putean College.
After a day of sightseeing, unwind in a bar for aperitivo. Enjoy a bowl of pasta or the local soup specialty called sullo scio. Afterwards, join the locals and walk along the banks of the River Arno. Keep an eye out for the Santa Maria della Spina, a beautiful church easily missed because of its small size.
Pisa’s climate is one of hot summers and mild winters. Tuscan cities are not known for their nightlife, so Pisa is a great destination for rising early. Catch the fresh food markets at the Piazza delle Vettovaglie or get an early start shopping in the arcade of Borgo Stretto.
Pisa makes a great base from which to explore the Tuscan region. With the international airport nearby and the fast intercity trains, visit Florence and other nearby towns, but make sure you leave time to enjoy Pisa and everything it has to offer.