As one of the most famous cities in Italy, Pisa offers plenty of tourist attractions. It’s located just 20 minutes from the Ligurian Sea and has excellent transportation connections to Florence, La Spezia, and Livorno.
Even though most people come here for the Leaning Tower, this Tuscan city has other amazing monuments like The Cathedral Of Santa Maria Assunta, Museo Dell’Opera Del Duomo, Campo Santo, and many more! It’s an incredible travel destination with a lot to do and see. Are you ready to explore Pisa?
Find The Best Places To Stay In Pisa
Where to Stay In Pisa?
Pisa is home to an array of fabulous attractions, so you might want to reserve 2 to 3 days in order to experience the city in depth.
The city also boasts a dazzling array of accommodation options that cater to every taste and budget. So whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway or a solo traveler in search of some adventure, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay in Pisa.
Click here to discover a well-curated list of incredible places to stay in Pisa, including comfy hotels, vacation apartments, B&Bs, and more.
What To Do In Pisa: Top 7 Activities
Take A Photo In Front Of The Leaning Tower Of Pisa
The bell tower, by far, is the most popular attraction in Pisa and a famous structure all over the world. Renowned for its tilt, the Leaning Tower of Pisa draws thousands of visits a year. However, in the original plan, it wasn’t supposed to be the centerpiece of the square.
The building was built in the 12th century, just after the Cathedral, but it soon became apparent that the foundations were weak, and the structure started to lean. The tower is still leaning today, although precautions have been taken to prevent it from completely collapsing.
Besides snapping a classic photo in front of it, take a good look at its fantastic architecture and the six rows of stone arches. Furthermore, you can climb to the top of the tower to get a unique view of the city.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy
Admire The Cathedral Of Santa Maria Assunta And The Baptistery
On Campo dei Miracoli, the Cathedral of Pisa is right next to the famous Leaning Tower. Its Pisan Romanesque architecture features white marble that was designed by Buscheto. The construction began in 1063 and was completed in 1092. Additionally, the cathedral’s interior is also very lovely. The main aisle’s ceiling is decorated with gold, and the dome has a stunning fresco of Mary’s Assumption.
To match the adjacent tower, the Baptistery is also slightly tilted. This massive structure is 54 meters tall and has a stunning exterior look with several statues, arches, and ornaments. However, the dome roof is only partially covered – half of it has orange tiles while the other half doesn’t.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy
Find Religious Relics At Museo Dell’Opera Del Duomo
This Cathedral Museum has a lot of artifacts and relics from the Cathedral of Pisa and the surrounding region. Plus, it offers great views of the Leaning Tower from the second floor. Additionally, you can discover several artifacts from Pisa’s naval history as well as a variety of Roman-era religious artifacts – sculptures, paintings, toms, and silversmith work.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Stop By The National Museum Of San Matteo
A beautiful collection of Pisan paintings and sculptures from the 12th to the 15th centuries can be found at the National Museum of San Matteo in Pisa, which is housed in a medieval monastery overlooking the Arno. A section of the museum showcases painted crosses and works by Berlinghiero Berlinghieri, Tedice, and Maestro di San Martino.
Simone Martini’s magnificent and outstanding Polyptych of St. Catherine of Alexandria is a prime example of fourteenth-century art. It is the painter’s biggest and most detailed piece that came from the altar of the Church of Santa Caterina in Pisa.
Address: Piazza San Matteo In Soarta, 1, 56127 Pisa PI, Italy
See The Knights’ Square
Piazza Dei Cavalieri was a political center in medieval times and used to be the headquarters of the Order of the Knights. The building, Palazzo dei Cavalieri, features graffiti of allegorical figures, busts of the Grandukes of Tuscany, and zodiac signs. A statue of Cosimo I stands in front of it and serves as a reminder of his victories. Today, the palace is home to Pisa’s University.
Address: Piazza dei Cavalieri, 7, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy
Visit Campo Santo
A monumental cemetery is a sacred place with medieval artwork and stunning frescoes. It has a huge collection of Roman sarcophagi, sculptures, and urns. The artist Giovanni di Simone constructed the cemetery over the earlier burial place around 1278. What’s interesting is that it was initially intended to be a church with the name Santissima Trinita, but the plan was altered while the project was being built. Campo Santo is a must-see for every history buff!
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 17, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy
Take An Afternoon Walk Along The Arno River
You can pass by some famous Pisa landmarks like Santa Maria della Spina and Palazzo Medici while strolling along the River Arno. Grab a coffee at one of the cute coffee shops, or perhaps a tasty gelato, and simply enjoy the beautiful scenery.
FAQ
Is Pisa worth visiting?
Even if you just want to explore the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa on the Piazza dei Miracoli – Pisa is for sure worth visiting. There are plenty of other attractions that are worth seeing too.
Is Pisa close to Rome or Florence?
Pisa is closer to Florence than to Rome. It’s located 83km west of Florence and 350km from Rome.
What is there to do in Pisa besides the tower?
There are a number of attractions apart from the Tower, including:
- Campo Santo
- Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
- Pisa Baptistery
- Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
- Santa Maria della Spina
- National Museum
- Palazzo della Carovana
- Basicica Romanica di San Piero a Grado
- River Arno
- Borgo Stretto
- Piazza delle Vettovaglie
How many days do you need in Pisa, Italy?
One day in Pisa is more than enough to see the Leaning Tower and other major sights.
Is the Leaning Tower of Pisa a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Cathedral, Campo Santo, and Opera del Duomo Museum are all part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What do I need to know before visiting Pisa?
There will be long lines to climb the tower so book your spot ahead. Tickets at the door cost €18 for all visitors over the age of 8.
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