One of the oldest Italian cities, Pisa. Attractions abound here. Have you ever played that game where you try to place as many blue figures on the tower without it toppling over? Who doesn’t know it, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Attractions like this are known worldwide. However, the Tuscan city has much more to offer. Read here about the best highlights you absolutely must not miss.
Pisa in 1 day? That is certainly possible! Many highlights are close to each other.
What are the best attractions in Pisa?
- Torre Pendente
- Churches & Cathedrals: San Maria del Carmine, Duomo Santa Maria Assunta, San Domenico
- Beautiful Piazzas: Piazza dei Cavalieri & Piazza dei Miracoli
- Avoid the crowds: Botanical Garden Orto Botanico di Pisa
- Highlights bike tour
The number 1 among Pisa attractions: Torre Pendente
One of the highlights you absolutely must see is, of course, the Leaning Tower. The iconic photos where you prevent the tower from falling are known worldwide. Interestingly, the tower was not meant to lean. The architect Giovanni di Simone never thought it would become so famous for this reason. Learn more about the tower during the Highlights bike tour with Baja Bikes.
Churches & Cathedrals
The San Maria del Carmine church is a beautiful 14th-century sight. Inside, there are frescoes and various paintings by Italian artists. With the statue of Nicola Pisano in front of the San Maria church, it truly is an art church. The name Pisano is known in Italy as an artistic family name, immortalized in many places in Italy in the form of a statue or other art objects.
The Leaning Tower is actually the famous bell tower of the magnificent Duomo Santa Maria Assunta. The cathedral is certainly one of the most appreciated highlights of the city. The Dome is built in Romanesque style and richly decorated both inside and out. So don’t forget to admire the interior. Tip: buy your skip the line ticket so you don’t have to queue, saving you precious time.
The San Domenico church, founded by Chiara Gambacorti, was partially intended as accommodation for the nuns, just as Chiara herself was. Unfortunately, the building has suffered greatly. However, there are still beautiful paintings to be found that tell stories about the ‘Holy Chiara’ who was eventually buried here in 1420. Compared to the cathedral, this church is somewhat more modest but nonetheless worth a visit.
Beautiful Piazzas
At Piazza dei Miracoli, you will find the aforementioned Santa Maria Cathedral and the accompanying Leaning Tower of Pisa. Attractions on this square are plentiful, making it one of the most famous squares in the student city. The Battistero San Giovanni, the largest baptistery in the world, is also located here. With all these Pisa attractions lined up, this square is one of the most important medieval art centers in the world.
Piazza dei Cavalieri is a beautifully open square that will amaze you. It served as the former political center of the city and was the main square for the military base. It’s no wonder it’s also called the ‘knight’s square.’ Here, you will also find the Santo Stefano, a church dedicated to the warriors or protectors of the city. The walls are adorned with banners, trophies, and paintings that tell stories of triumphant victories.
Botanical Garden Orto Botanico di Pisa
One of the best places in Pisa to escape the crowds is the botanical garden, or the Orto Botanico di Pisa. Here you will find many special plants and flowers, herb gardens, and ponds. Additionally, there is a library and a natural history museum.
This botanical garden was founded in 1544 and was located on the banks of the Arno River. However, in 1591, the garden was moved to its current location on Via Luca Gini. This has led to a debate about whether it is indeed the oldest botanical garden in the world. In Padua, Italy, there is a botanical garden that was established a few years later but has never changed location.
Discover Pisa attractions by bike
During the Pisa Highlights bike tour, you will discover the most beautiful and best Pisa attractions by bike. In a relaxed manner, you will see the real Pisa in just 3 hours with a local guide. This way, you will learn all about the splendor and beauty that can be seen here. The guide will also give you the best tips for enjoying delicious Italian food, what more could you want? The bike tour is a complete city introduction on two wheels that will make your city trip unforgettable. So start with a bike tour and discover all the Pisa attractions during your city trip.
Cycling in Italy? There are all sorts of possibilities in Italy for a fun bike tour!