Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy.
Pisa, Italy is known for its leaning tower, but there is so much more to the city than a single sight! In addition to seeing the tower that stands with a slant, we are highlighting the Best Things To Do in Pisa, Italy!
Planning a Trip to Pisa, Italy
Figuring out Pisa sightseeing is just one facet of planning a trip. Travelers visiting Pisa also need to consider how to get there, what to eat and where to stay.
To help you effortlessly plan a Pisa trip, we share need-to-know details at the end of the article. Also check out our complete Guide to Planning at Vacation to Europe.
Those visiting other Top Destinations in Tuscany can read these helpful guides.
- 3 Days in Florence Itinerary
- Fantastic Things To Do in Lucca
- 1 Week Tuscany Itinerary
- Best Things To Do in Siena
- What To Do in San Gimignano
As you begin making reservations, staying organized is key. We recommend using our Trip Planning Printables to track all the pertinent details!
23 Best Things To Do in Pisa, Italy
Let’s jump right into our list of the best things to visit in Pisa, Italy. We feature all the top Pisa highlights – including the expansive squares, historic places and green spaces!
#1 Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower is the campanile (or bell tower) for the Pisa Cathedral. Construction began in 1173 and by 1178, with only 3 stories completed, the tower was already leaning. To compensate, the five upper levels were designed with one side taller than the other. However, that didn’t stop the structure from sinking further into the ground.
The flimsy foundation – set in unstable soil – doomed the project from the start. It would take another 200 years for the tower to finally be completed. The prominent tilt only worsened as the decades wore on…yet it remained standing.
The Pisa tower was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Then, in the 1990s, major stabilization works were undertaken. Now the landmark tower is estimated to survive at least another couple hundred years.
Can you Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
YES! In fact, climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the top activities. There are nearly 300 steps to the uppermost level. Visitors who make the climb are treated to spectacular views that stretch over the city’s rooftops. We recommend that you buy tickets with skip-the-line access – like these tickets that include a tour.
Fun Facts of the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Pisa bell tower was originally supposed to reach the height of 60 meters (about 197 feet). Since it is sinking, the tallest point only reaches about 184 feet.
The identity of the original architects of the Pisa Tower is unknown (although the work is often attributed to Bonanno Pisano or Gherardo di Gherardo).
The Leaning Tower was set to be destroyed during WWII to keep Nazis from using it as a lookout tower. However, the Allied Forces found the tower (and church) to be so beautiful that they left it intact.
Both the Cathedral in Pisa and the Baptistry are also sinking. In fact, two other Pisa towers are leaning. Most notably, the Church of St. Nicola bell tower and the bell tower at St. Michele dei Scalzi Church.
#2 Square of Miracles
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is located within the dazzlingly beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli. The area also has several other top attractions in Pisa, including the Cathedral, Baptistry and Cemetery. Additionally, visitors will find an ornate fountain, sculptures and two museums. The square – together with the buildings – are listed UNSECO World Heritage Sites.
We recommend strolling through the square to admire the architecture, posing for funny photos with the tower and lounging on the spacious grass.
Do note that entry into the sights does require a ticket. Basic entry tickets can be purchased on the official website or in person. Plus, guided tours (like this one) offer a much more comprehensive introduction to the attractions.
#3 Cathedral of Pisa
The absolutely stunning Duomo di Pisa sits in the center of the grand Piazza dei Miracoli and ranks one of the best places to visit in Pisa, Italy.
Building of commenced in 1063 and took just 30 years to complete. However, a makeover was already underway by the 12th century. Renovations were also required after a fire in 1595, giving the church much of its present-day appearance.
The elaborate white and grey Carrara marble façade is fascinating to see. Seriously, bring binoculars to view the spectacular details! The Pisan Romanesque style (which it has come to be called) features arches, columns, mosaics and intricate carvings.
Inside the cathedral, columns line the central nave with grandiose gold leaf ceiling overhead. The magnificent dome, Corinthian columns, carved pulpit and intricate mosaics – as well as the relics of St. Rainerius – are other things to see inside the Pisa Cathedral.
#4 Baptistry of St. John
Another one of the top things to do in Pisa is to visit the Baptistry, which sits directly across from the main façade of the Cathedral.
Construction of the round Baptistry in Pisa began in 1152 and took more than 200 years to complete. Today, at 180-feet-tall and boasting a diameter of 112 feet, St. John’s stands as the largest baptistry in Italy.
The Romanesque architectural style mimics that of the cathedral on the lower levels. The upper levels transition to Gothic and are decorated with pointed gables, statues and exquisite engravings. Want a fun fact about the Baptistry in Pisa? It is where astronomer Galileo was baptized.
#5 Monumental Cemetery
Often referred to as the Old Cemetery, Campo Santo is one of interesting Pisa, Italy tourist attractions.
It is said that the soil used for the foundation was brought to Pisa from Golgotha (the place where Jesus was crucified). Construction then began in 1278, but was not finished until 1464.
The site, which marks the north side of the Pisa Cathedral Square, is long and rectangular with a garden in the center. The graves – and their elegant tombstones – are located within the arcade and the walls are covered in frescoes. Altogether, the area resembles more of an open-air museum than a burial ground.
#6 Fontana dei Putti
The marble Angles Fountain in Pisa is worth a quick stop when admiring the sights on Piazza dei Miracoli. Dating to the 17th century, the fountain served an actual purpose – not just an aesthetic one. It was a main water source for the people of Pisa!
#7 Old Pisa City Walls
Since Medieval times, the city of Pisa has been encircled by protective walls. The 35-foot-tall, preserved walls stretch for nearly 2 miles around the city, providing elevated views of Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa neighborhoods and parks.
Those looking for activities in Pisa that offer a different perspective can climb atop the walls and go for a walk. There is a small fee to enter the walls in Pisa and you can download an app for information along the route.
#8 Botanical Garden
The lovely Botanic Gardens of Pisa provide an excellent respite from the congestion of Piazza dei Miracoli. The plant collection was established in the 16th century by the University of Pisa, as it is still used today. Visitors can wander the paths, alongside ponds and through greenhouses to see the variety of species. As one of the Pisa top attractions, there is a small fee to enter.
#9 Knights’ Square
The beautiful and historic Piazza dei Cavalieri is one of the prime sights to see in Pisa, Italy. Surrounded by architectural gems, it has served as the city’s political center and a gathering place among locals.
The Palazzo della Carovana is the square’s most attractive structure. Built in the mid-1500s as the headquarters for the Knights of St. Stephen, the façade features sgraffiti. The palace now houses the Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa, a public university.
Standing in front of the palace is a statue of the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo I de Medici. Another notable site on the square is the Palazzo dell’Orologio, which is recognizable by the arch that runs through it. Originally separate dwellings, the palace was enlarged by joining two buildings in the year 1554.
The Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri dates to the 1500s. It was purposely built for the militaristic Order of St Stephen, whose job was to fight pirates in the Mediterranean. The order was founded by Cosimo de’ Medici.
#10 St Catherine of Alexandria
Built in the second half of the 13th century, the Santa Caterina d’Alessandria in Pisa is a quaint church that is tucked along a spacious city park.
The ornate and bright façade – built in the 14th century in the typical Pisan Romanesque style – is in stark contrast to the dimly lit interior. That said, it remains one of the interesting places to visit in Pisa due to the artworks that are housed inside.
#11 Baths of Nero
Although little more than a shell of its former self, the ruins of the Baths of Nero are an intriguing archaeological site. With careful excavations and examinations, it has been determined that the baths date to the 1st century AD. The building was likely a sauna room, but little else is currently known about this historic Pisa site.
#12 Porta a Lucca
Porta a Lucca (sometimes called Porta Parlascio) is an old city gate that sits just beyond the Nero Baths ruins. The brick, arched gate was built in 1157 and was the largest in the city, opening onto the road that connected Pisa to nearby Lucca.
#13 Borgo Stretto Shopping Street
The picturesque Borgo Stretto is the city’s best shopping street – and a Pisa must see district. Boutique shops and grand, old-fashioned cafes line the atmospheric lane from Piazza dei Cavallieri to Piazza Garibaldi on the Arno riverside.
Visitors can walk in the shade under the arcades, stroll down alleyways and stop for a sweet treat or coffee. The historic Salza makes decadent pastries and Caffe Settimelli is prime for people watching!
#14 Church of Archangel Michael
Travelers making their way along Borgo while sightseeing in Pisa, should pop-in to see the Church of San Michele. Like other Pisa churches, the façade (which dates to the 14th century) features an upper tiered loggia. When it was built in the 10th century, the church was actually located outside the early city gates.
#15 Ponte di Mezzo (Middle Bridge)
There are many bridges that straddle the Arno River in Pisa, but Ponte di Mezzo – which connects Piazza Garibaldi in Tramontana to Piazza XX Settembre in Mezzogiorno – is a local favorite. One of the top things to do in Pisa, Italy is to cross the bridge, pausing along the way to take in the river views.
The Ponte di Mezzo (also called Ponte Conte Ugolino) is not an old bridge, as it was constructed in 1950. However, it marks the site of the city’s first stone bridge, which was built in the year 1035. When the current bridge was rebuilt after World War II, it was recognized as a symbol of Pisa’s resilience.
#16 September 20th Plaza
Marking the south side of the famous Ponte di Mezzo Bridge, Piazza XX Settembre is one of the best places to visit in Pisa.
On the west side, Palazzo Gambacorti – dating to the 11th century – is used as the Town Hall. The clocktower on the east side belongs to Palazzo Pretorio, which serves as the local library. The 17th century Logge di Banchi, on the south side of the square, was built as a marketplace for selling wool, silk and other goods.
Corso Italia is the pretty pedestrian shopping street that leads south from the square to the Pisa train station.
So, why is it called Piazza XX Settembre? Because, September 20, 1870 is the date that Rome was captured by the Italian Army, ending Papal States and uniting Italy.
#17 Palazzo Blu Museum
A top tourist attraction in Pisa, Italy, the Palazzo Blu is a fantastic art museum housed in a 16th century palace.
The building’s unique blue color was discovered during renovation and is thought to date to the 18th century. In addition to the permanent display of Italian paintings and artifacts, the museum hosts a rotating collection of artworks by international artists.
#18 National Museum of the Royal Palace
Built for the Medici family in 1583, the Royal Palace sits on the north side of the Arno. The reason it is one of the top Pisa, Italy places to visit today is that is houses the National Museum.
The National Museum collection is comprised of artworks acquired by the region’s powerful families, including Medici, Lorena and Savoia. The most impressive displays are the historic armor, fine tapestries, historic home furnishings and paintings by masters.
#19 Lungarni di Pisa
Although there are many Pisa sights to see, we highly recommend allowing time for wandering. We believe there is no better place for a stroll than along the curving Arno riverside.
Both banks of the Arno River feature wide, flat pedestrian paths where visitors can promenade while taking in the views. Lined with amazing architecture and lovely bridges, the Lungarni is one of the best places to go in Pisa, Italy for a romantic walk with a gelato in hand.
#20 Solferino Bridge
The 3-arched Ponte Solferino Bridge is not particularly spectacular. It was built in the 1970s after the previous bridge collapsed due to flooding and the one before that was destroyed in WWII. That said, crossing the Ponte Solferino is one of the top things to do in Pisa, Tuscany – simply for the super view!
#21 Santa Maria of the Thorn
Sitting directly on the south bank of the Arno River, the opulent Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina is one of the best things to see in Pisa, Italy. The Gothic church, which is made of marble, dates to the year 1230. In the 1300s, it housed a holy relic: A thorn for the crown that Jesus wore at his crucifixion.
The heavily decorated exterior is a festival of artwork and sculptures (although most of the originals are in the nearby National Museum of San Matteo). The interior, which is seldom open (typically only for events and exhibitions), features an impressive wooden ceiling.
#22 Church of St. Paolo
Yet another Pisa Romanesque church, San Paolo has a history that dates to the 9th century – although the building was renovated and enhanced throughout the centuries. For a time, Saint Paolo actually served as the Pisa Cathedral.
One sight that makes it a must do in Pisa is the Chapel of Sant’Agata. The brick chapel was constructed in the 12th century and miraculously survived a WWII bombing that destroyed the cloisters and other portions of the church.
#23 Tuttomondo Mural
After seeing the many ancient sights, one of the fun things to do in Pisa is to seek out Tuttomondo, a modern street art mural by American Keith Haring.
The famous mural covers the entire back wall of the Sant’Antonio Abate Church. Haring painted the mural in 1989 with the theme of peace and harmony. Tuttomondo was one of the last public murals that he created before his death in 1990 and one of his most notable works.
Pisa, Italy Map of Attractions
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Pisa Map below.
Tips for your Trip to Pisa, Italy
Now that you know the best things to do in Pisa, we have some advice that will hopefully help make your trip planning simple.
Getting to Pisa
You can travel to Pisa by plane, train, car or bus. Additionally, cruise ships to Pisa dock in the nearby town of Livorno.
If flying to Pisa, you will land at the Galileo Galilei International Airport (PSA). Cheap flights to Pisa are available from numerous European hubs on Ryanair or Easy Jet. Be sure to check out all our advice for Finding Deals on Flights before you book! To get from Pisa to the airport, a frequent shuttle bus runs from 6am to midnight.
The direct train from Florence to Pisa takes less than 1 hour. You can also travel directly to other regional destinations by train from Pisa Centrale. From Cinque Terre to Pisa, there is a direct train that takes about 1 hour.
The Main Bus Station Pisa is also at the train station. If you’re traveling by bus to Pisa, this is where you will arrive. You can also pick up the E3 Bus to Lucca from Pisa here.
Driving from Florence to Pisa also takes about an hour. If you decide to get a car hire in Pisa, Italy, be sure to read all our tips on getting the Best Prices on Car Rentals.
Best Place To Stay in Pisa
We believe the ideal place to stay is near the heart of the city – where attractions are just steps away.
One of the best hotels in Pisa based on guest reviews is the Hotel Bologna. Located south of the river near Palazzo Blu, Hotel Bologna gets rave reviews for the clean rooms and excellent breakfast. Check rates and availability for your stay!
What To Pack for a Trip to Pisa, Italy
Now that you are almost ready for your trip to Italy, it’s time to pack your bags. Grab your FREE Packing Checklist and let’s go on vacation!
Durable Travel Shoes
While the Pisa things to visit are in close proximity, walking from sight to sight is still required. We recommend wearing light-weight trainers that have a slip-resistant sole. Read our reviews for the Best Shoes for Travel to find the perfect pair for you!
Travel Camera
The sights that are a must see in Pisa, Italy are incredibly photogenic! Rather than relying on your phone, upgrade to a real camera. We shoot with a Canon Rebel and use an 18-135mm lens. This set-up is easy to use and affordable – which makes it one of the best cameras for budget travelers.
Day Bag
Whether you travel with a backpack or suitcase, you will want to make sure you have a good day pack as well. Zippered pockets are a must to deter annoying pickpockets. We carry these small, lightweight backpacks – but there is a style for every traveler. We share our top picks in our article, Best Day Bags for Europe.
European Travel Insurance
No matter how well you plan, travel can go sideways. Checked luggage gets lost, flights cancel and people get sick abroad. Trip insurance may help cover the cost of those disruptions. Check rates and coverage at World Nomads for your vacation to Italy.
Start planning your trip to Italy! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.
