Pisa, famed for its iconic Leaning Tower, is a city that boasts a handful of stunning historical sites. Many of these are centered around the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles). While most visitors to Pisa only make it as far as this spot for a playful photo with the Leaning Tower, there’s much more to see and do in this charming Italian city.
Strolling the Streets of Pisa
After snapping your obligatory tower pic, take some time to wander along the banks of the Arno River. You’ll be treated to picturesque views and a taste of local life. Then, venture beyond the Piazza dei Miracoli to explore other parts of the city, like the Piazza dei Cavalieri. This historic square was once the heart of medieval Pisa and is now home to the prestigious Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa (a university founded by Napoleon in 1810).
Savor the Flavors of Pisa
No trip to Italy is complete without indulging in some delicious local cuisine. In Pisa, be sure to try these traditional dishes:
- Cecina: A savory pancake made with chickpea flour, water, and olive oil
- Castagnaccio: A rustic cake made with chestnut flour, pine nuts, and raisins
- Pappa al Pomodoro: A hearty Tuscan soup made with bread, tomatoes, garlic, and basil
For a true taste of Pisa, head to the city’s oldest deli, Salumeria Verdi. This family-run shop has been serving up cured meats, cheeses, and other local specialties since 1928. Or, for a sit-down meal, try Osteria dei Cavalieri, a cozy trattoria that’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Pisa: Your Gateway to Tuscany
If you’re flying into Europe, you often have to spend at least an hour traveling from the airport to the city center. But not in Pisa! The Pisa International Airport is conveniently located just minutes from the city center and all the main sights and attractions.
This proximity, combined with Pisa’s status as a gateway to Tuscany, makes it an ideal starting point for your Italian adventure. The Pisa Central Train Station connects directly to the airport (it’s just a 5-minute train ride) and also offers easy access to other Tuscan gems like the Cinque Terre, Lucca, and Florence.
Travel tip: While there are two trains per hour between the Pisa airport and the train station, the schedule can be a bit odd. The trains often run close together rather than 30 minutes apart. So if you’re trying to catch an outgoing train to another city, taking a taxi from the airport to the train station might be your best bet. It’ll cost less than €10 and take about 10 minutes.
Beyond the Leaning Tower
While the Leaning Tower is undoubtedly Pisa’s star attraction, there’s plenty more to see and do in this historic city. Here are a few highlights:
- Duomo di Pisa: This stunning Romanesque cathedral is a masterpiece of marble and mosaics
- Battistero di San Giovanni: The largest baptistery in Italy, known for its incredible acoustics
- Camposanto Monumentale: A hauntingly beautiful cemetery with Roman sarcophagi and frescoes
- Museo dell’Opera del Duomo: A museum showcasing art and artifacts from the cathedral complex
- Museo Nazionale di San Matteo: A treasure trove of medieval and Renaissance art
And if you’re looking to venture beyond the city center, consider these day trips:
- Lucca: A charming walled city known for its Renaissance-era architecture and delicious olive oil
- Cinque Terre: A string of five colorful fishing villages perched on the rugged Italian Riviera
- San Gimignano: A picturesque hilltop town famed for its medieval towers and white wine
- Siena: A stunning city renowned for its Gothic cathedral and annual horse race, the Palio di Siena
So whether you’re using Pisa as a launchpad for your Tuscan adventures or settling in to explore the city’s many charms, you’re sure to fall in love with this captivating corner of Italy. Just remember, there’s much more to Pisa than its famous Leaning Tower!
