Pisa Things To Do

The Leaning Tower
Everyone knows about Pisa’s most famous attraction, but the Leaning Tower is one of those sights that still manages to surprise and enchant visitors despite its familiarity. Work on the tower began in the 12th century. The upper bell chamber was not added until the mid 14th century. It has leant from the very beginning. Guided visits to the top are allowed at present but this may change if the tower leans much further.

The Campo dei Miracoli
The Field of Miracles is the highlight of any Pisa city break. A beautifully laid out city park square containing Pisa’s most renowned buildings. As well as the Leaning Tower, the Campo contains the extraordinary Romanesque cathedral: a uniquely beautiful building with its coloured marble and white stone. The vast circular Baptistery is the largest in Italy, and features an extraordinary mix of Romanesque and gothic flourishes. The white marble Camposanto is one of the world’s most extraordinary cemeteries. The Field of Miracles also contains an outstanding museum.

Walking the neighbourhoods
Part of the pleasure of Pisa city breaks is exploring the city’s delightful lesser-known neighbourhoods often missed by day-tripping tourists. Pisa abounds in beautiful squares and arcades, graceful palaces and Romanesque and Gothic churches. Wander the city’s narrow medieval streets around the Piazza dei Cavalieri and soak up the atmosphere in the university neighbourhood around Piazza Dante. There are fine mansions and good walks along the River Arno, and lively street markets to the south of the river at weekends. For interesting shopping visit the smart shops on the beautifully arcaded Borgo Streto and the atmospheric food market near Via Dini.

Eating out
With relatively few visitors to Pisa staying overnight, the city boasts an excellent selection of authentic quality restaurants catering to the locals. The student population also ensures plenty of decent economical options. Pisan cuisine is very varied, with influences from the mountains and the sea. Plenty of rustic game dishes as well as superb fish and seafood. Tuscan wines are world famous. Avoid the leaning Tower area.

Lucca and Florence
A long weekend break in Pisa can easily take in two of the most beautiful cities in Italy. Both Lucca and Florence can easily be visited in a day by train from Pisa Centrale station. Lucca, a wonderfully elegant walled city with beautiful parks and Romanesque churches, is just 30 minutes by train. Florence takes an hour. See our Florence city breaks page for more details of Tuscany’s most famous city.

Pisa City Breaks  Getting Around Pisa

Things To Do In Pisa  Pisa Weather