Pisa is one of Italy’s most iconic cities, often reduced to a brief photo stop to snap a picture with the Leaning Tower. But this charming Tuscan city has so much more to offer than just its famous bell tower. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, there’s a wealth of history, art, and natural beauty to explore. From medieval streets to stunning green spaces, Pisa is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
Here’s a guide to some of the top things to see and do in Pisa, beyond the Leaning Tower.
1. Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa
It would be remiss not to start with Pisa’s most famous landmark—the Leaning Tower. Standing at an angle of 3.97 degrees, this freestanding bell tower of the Cathedral of Pisa has captivated visitors for centuries. Originally built as a freestanding bell tower for the cathedral, it started leaning during construction due to unstable foundation soil. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most recognized structures in the world.
You can climb the 294 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the city and surrounding Tuscan countryside. The experience is both thrilling and humbling as you feel the lean as you ascend. Be sure to reserve tickets in advance, as entry is limited to specific time slots.
2. Explore Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles)
The Leaning Tower is part of the Piazza dei Miracoli, or the Square of Miracles, a stunning complex of historical buildings that includes the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Baptistery of St. John, and the Camposanto Monumentale (Monumental Cemetery). The square is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of medieval architecture.
- Pisa Cathedral: A magnificent example of Romanesque architecture, the cathedral is known for its elaborate marble façade, ornate interiors, and grand mosaics. Don’t miss the pulpit by Giovanni Pisano, which is a prime example of 13th-century Italian sculpture.
- Baptistery of St. John: This circular building is famous for its acoustics and the striking contrast between its Romanesque and Gothic styles. A highlight is the beautiful marble font in the center, where baptisms still take place today.
- Camposanto Monumentale: An ancient cemetery believed to have been built over sacred soil brought back from the Holy Land during the Crusades. Its frescoes, some of which have been damaged by time and war, are awe-inspiring, depicting scenes from the Bible and medieval life.
3. Walk Along the Arno River
Pisa is located along the Arno River, and a peaceful walk along its banks offers a lovely way to experience the city from a different perspective. The riverfront is lined with colorful buildings, charming cafes, and inviting green spaces. Stroll across the Ponte di Mezzo (the main bridge) and enjoy views of the city’s historic buildings reflected in the river’s calm waters.
The walk is especially scenic at sunset when the golden light casts a soft glow over the buildings. It’s also a great spot for people-watching or a leisurely bike ride along the river’s cycle path.
4. Discover the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
To learn more about the history and art of Pisa’s cathedral complex, head to the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, located near the Piazza dei Miracoli. This museum houses a wealth of medieval and Renaissance art, including sculptures, paintings, and illuminated manuscripts. Notably, the museum displays original works from the cathedral and other local landmarks, including sculptures by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano.
A visit here provides a deeper understanding of the city’s rich artistic heritage and the role Pisa played in the development of Italian art during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.
5. Wander Through the Borgo Stretto
If you’re looking to experience local life in Pisa, head to the Borgo Stretto, one of the city’s oldest streets. This charming, narrow lane is lined with medieval buildings, boutique shops, and cafes. The street is a lively hub, filled with locals and tourists alike.
The Borgo Stretto leads to the Piazza Garibaldi, where you can find more shops and eateries. It’s a perfect place to grab a coffee, try the local delicacy, cecina (a chickpea flour-based flatbread), and soak in the atmosphere of Pisa’s medieval heart.
6. Relax in the Orto Botanico (Botanical Garden)
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by visiting the Orto Botanico, one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe. Founded in 1544 by the University of Pisa, the garden spans 2.5 hectares and features a wide variety of plants from around the world. It’s a peaceful oasis where you can explore different plant species, from tropical trees to Mediterranean shrubs.
The garden is also home to historical buildings, including greenhouses and the Fossil Museum, which displays fossils from the region. It’s a lovely spot to relax, have a picnic, or simply enjoy a quiet moment surrounded by nature.
7. Take a Day Trip to the Tuscan Countryside
While Pisa itself has plenty to offer, its location makes it an excellent base for exploring the stunning Tuscan countryside. Take a short drive or train ride to nearby towns such as Lucca, known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls and charming historic center, or San Miniato, famous for its truffles and scenic views.
You can also explore the Chianti region, just a short drive from Pisa, where you’ll find rolling vineyards, quaint villages, and the opportunity to taste some of Italy’s best wines.
8. Museo Nazionale di San Matteo
For art lovers, a visit to the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo is a must. Located in a former Benedictine monastery, this museum houses a remarkable collection of medieval and Renaissance art, including works by renowned artists like Simone Martini and Benozzo Gozzoli. It’s less crowded than the more famous museums of Florence but equally fascinating for those interested in Tuscan art.
9. Climb the Torre Guelfa
For a different perspective of Pisa, consider climbing the Torre Guelfa, a medieval tower located in the heart of the city. The tower offers panoramic views over Pisa’s rooftops and the Arno River, providing a unique vantage point compared to the well-known Leaning Tower.
Getting Around: Transport Options from Pisa Airport
Pisa is well-connected to the rest of Italy and Europe through the Galileo Galilei International Airport (PSA), which is just a short distance from the city center. The airport is conveniently located about 1.5 kilometers from Pisa’s main train station, making it easy to access the city’s tourist hotspots. Whether you prefer to take a taxi, bus, or train, there are several transport options available to help you get around with ease.
Train from Pisa Airport to the City Center
One of the most popular and convenient options for getting from Pisa Airport to the city center is by train. The Pisa Aeroporto Train Station is located directly underneath the airport, making it a straightforward option. The train journey takes just 5-7 minutes to reach Pisa Centrale, the main railway station in the city.
- Frequency: Trains run frequently, with departures every 10-15 minutes during peak hours.
- Cost: A one-way ticket typically costs around €1.30-€1.50.
- Convenience: Once at Pisa Centrale, you’re just a short walk from the historic center, including the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the Leaning Tower and other iconic landmarks. The station is well-signposted, making it easy to navigate.
Pisa Mover (Airport Shuttle)
If you’re traveling with luggage or prefer a direct connection to the city center without changing modes of transport, the Pisa Mover is another great option. This modern airport shuttle service runs between the airport and the Pisa Centrale train station.
- Journey Time: The ride takes approximately 5 minutes.
- Cost: A one-way ticket costs around €2.70, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Service Frequency: The shuttle operates every 5-8 minutes during the day, from early morning until late at night.
- Convenience: The Pisa Mover station is directly outside the airport terminal, and it drops you off at Pisa Centrale, which is just a short walk from the tourist areas.
Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services
For those who prefer a more direct and private option, taking a taxi or using a ride-sharing service like Uber is a convenient way to get to your destination. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal, and the journey to the city center takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Cost: A typical taxi ride from the airport to the city center will cost around €10-€15, depending on your exact destination.
- Comfort: Taxis and ride-sharing services offer door-to-door convenience, which is ideal if you’re carrying a lot of luggage or have limited time to explore.
- Availability: Taxis are available 24/7, and ride-sharing services like Uber can be accessed through their respective apps.
Airport Bus to City Center
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the LAM Rossa bus service is a convenient way to get from Pisa Airport to the city center. This bus connects the airport with Pisa Centrale, making it a simple and affordable choice for travelers.
- Journey Time: The ride takes around 15 minutes.
- Cost: A one-way ticket costs around €1.50.
- Service Frequency: The buses run regularly, about every 15 minutes, and are available from early morning until late in the evening.
- Convenience: The bus stop is located just outside the terminal, and it drops you off at Pisa Centrale, making it a quick and easy transfer.
Airport Transfer Service
Book in advance a Pisa airport transfer which offers several convenient transfer options to the city centre and beyond.
Car Rental
For those who want to explore Pisa and beyond at their own pace, renting a car is another option available at Pisa Airport. There are several car rental agencies located inside the airport terminal, offering a variety of vehicles for all types of travellers.
- Cost: Prices vary depending on the season and car type, but you can expect to pay anywhere from €20-€50 per day.
- Convenience: Having a rental car gives you the freedom to explore not only Pisa but also the surrounding Tuscan countryside, which is rich in vineyards, charming villages, and scenic landscapes.
- Parking: While Pisa has some public parking areas, it’s best to plan your route and check for parking options in advance, especially in the historic center where spaces can be limited.
Cycling from Pisa Airport
Pisa is a relatively small and flat city, making it bike-friendly and a great place to explore by bicycle. While there’s no direct bike rental service at the airport itself, there are several places in the city center where you can rent bikes for the day.
- Cycling Distance: The city center is about 2 kilometers from the airport, which takes around 10-15 minutes by bike.
- Cost: Bike rentals typically cost between €10-€20 for a full day, depending on the type of bike.
- Convenience: If you prefer an active way to get to the city center, renting a bike could be a fun and eco-friendly option. Plus, cycling around Pisa is a great way to enjoy the sights at your own pace.
Whether you’re in a hurry to get to the Leaning Tower or looking for a leisurely way to arrive, Pisa Airport offers a variety of transportation options to suit every traveler’s needs. The train and Pisa Mover are quick and affordable, while taxis, buses, airport transfers and car rentals offer flexibility and comfort. No matter how you choose to get around, you’ll be exploring the charming streets of Pisa in no time!
Conclusion
Pisa is so much more than just the Leaning Tower. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and serene green spaces, there’s plenty to see and do beyond the iconic bell tower. Whether you’re exploring its medieval streets, visiting its historic churches and museums, or venturing into the Tuscan countryside, Pisa is a city that rewards those who take the time to wander, learn, and immerse themselves in its captivating charm.
So, next time you’re in Italy, don’t just rush to snap that famous photo—take the time to discover the true heart of Pisa.
