In the shadow of the cypress trees, Pisa is revealed in all its majesty, like a charming Tuscan jewel. The Piazza dei Miracoli is a must-see on any trip to Pisa, revealing its most beautiful historical monuments. At the heart of this historic setting, the majestic silhouette of the Leaning Tower of Pisa defies the laws of balance, inviting travelers to discover its secrets. Embark with the Petit Futé on an escapade where art, culture and elegance come together in a fairytale ballet, with our 17 must-see things to do in Pisa. Whether you're a couple or a family, this is a magical destination awaiting you!
1. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, the city's unusual symbol
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a must-see in Italy, whether for a long weekend or a longer vacation. A must-see treasure in Tuscany, it is world-famous for its unusual leaning shape. As soon as construction began in 1173, the tower began to lean, due to the instability of the ground. Over the course of many years of work, with long intermittent pauses, the tower stabilized, then tilted further. In the end, the so-called Leaning Tower remains the symbol of the city, admired by millions of visitors every year.
If you'd like to climb it, we recommend you book your pre-dated tickets here (which also include entry to the cathedral). This will allow you to climb to the top at your own pace and avoid the long queues at the entrance.
Did you know? The Leaning Tower of Pisa is not the most leaning tower in the world. That's the bell tower of Suurhusen in Germany.
2. Pisa's Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, the majestic Duomo
The Piazza dei Miracoli has many emblematic architectural treasures in store for visitors. Among them is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption of Pisa, also known as the Duomo of Pisa. Construction of the cathedral began in 1063, in an architectural style blending Roman, Byzantine and Arab influences. The exterior is decorated with white and colored marble, columns and arches, with a gallery carved with biblical scenes. A true marvel! Inside, you can admire exceptional frescoes, mosaics and other sculptures, making this one of the most memorable visits of your trip.
Good to know: the Place des Miracles is also home to the Tourist Office.
3. Pisa's Baptistery, an architectural splendor
Designed to adorn the adjacent cathedral, the Baptistery dedicated to St. John the Baptist is a pure marvel. With a circumference of over 107 meters, it is quite simply the largest monument of its kind in Italy. The Pisa Baptistery perfectly illustrates the transition between Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with a base of rounded corners and pointed arches at the top. The interior, adorned with a pulpit sculpted by Nicola Pisano and biblical works, is also a must-see. The acoustics are exceptional, ideal for choir concerts.
Did you know? The Baptistery is also slightly inclined, at 0.6 degrees to the Duomo, due to the soft ground of the Piazza dei Miracoli.
4. The Camposanto, the Piazza dei Miracoli's must-see cemetery
Does a visit to a cemetery sound a little daunting? Wait until you see Pisa's Camposanto, a monumental cemetery built in 1278 from the sacred soil of Golgotha. Giovanni di Simone, architect of the Leaning Tower, designed this marble cloister, which became the burial place of the upper classes until 1779. On the walls, you can admire superb frescoes by great artists such as Spinello Aretino, restored after their destruction during the Second World War.
Your visit also takes you to 84 Roman sarcophagi and various artistic sculptures. The Camposanto is definitely rich in historical and cultural treasures!
5. The Museo della Sinopie, in the secret of artistic frescoes
Stay a little longer in the Place des Miracles, which has yet to reveal all its secrets. At the Sinopie Museum, you can discover a hidden part of Italian art. Sinopias are the preparatory drawings for the beautiful frescoes you can admire in Pisa. You're entering the secret garden of the artists, who tried out numerous artistic tests before creating their works. It's a museum whose collection is as interesting as it isunusual, and one that you won't have the chance to see anywhere else!
Discover all the monuments in Piazza dei Miracoli with this combined ticket, which includes entry to the Tower of Pisa, the Baptistery, the Camposanto, the Cathedral, the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo and the Sinopie Museum, so you don 't have to queue at the ticket office.
6. Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, religious art in the spotlight
Italy, the cradle of art that cannot be ignored in Europe, is home to numerous museums, including the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, which houses works from the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption and the Baptistery of Pisa. After five years of renovation, it has reopened to present art lovers with sculptures from the 11th and 16th centuries, including works by Giovanni Pisano.
In the exhibition rooms, you'll discover beautiful medieval statues, bas-reliefs, capitals and other architectural fragments from the Piazza dei Miracoli. Magnificent medieval liturgical furnishings are also on display.
7. The Ramparts of Pisa, a stroll into the past
Enjoy a privileged view of Pisa and the Piazza dei Miracoli from the ramparts of Pisa. The Mura di Pisa stretches for around 3 kilometers, and is directly accessible from the Piazza dei Miracoli, near the Torre Santa Maria. We invite you to follow the ramparts all the way to the end. They take you straight to the Giardino Scotto, another of the city's must-sees. The walk, lined with palm trees and other vegetation, is truly magnificent!
8. The Giardino Scotto, Pisa's Cittadella Nuova
Pisa's historic green lung, the Scotto Garden offers a bucolic stroll through the heart of the city. What's more, many events and concerts are held here throughout the year. Originally, in the 15th century, it was known as Cittadella Nuova. Created for the Scotto family, it lies at the center of the fortress bastions. The citadel had been bought by the family at the end of the 18th century, after it had been put up for sale by the Grand Duke Leopold I of Tuscany. To the delight of Pisans and visitors alike, it finally became a public garden in 1939. A wonderful place to stroll in magnificent surroundings, without leaving the city!
9. Piazza dei Cavalieri, a condensed history
Get ready for a historic plunge into the Pisa of yesteryear! The Piazza dei Cavalieri, the ancient political center of the city, was the site of the Roman Forum. In the center, you can admire the statue of the Grand Duke of Tuscany, dating from 1596. The square shines with the superb period buildings that surround it. The Palazzo della Carovana, redesigned by Giorgio Vasari, boasts a facade adorned with drawings and busts of the Medici family. This square is also home to the École Normale Supérieure, founded by Napoleon Bonaparte. Famous figures such as Antonio Pacinotti, Giovanni Pascoli and Carlo Rubbia are taught here. A must-see during your visit to the historic heart of Pisa!
10. Corso Italia, a shopping paradise
Although Corso Italia is lined with ancient buildings, it has a modern feel thanks to its many boutiques, making it a must-see shopping area in Pisa. This shopping street, nestled in small courtyards, stretches from Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, where theTourist Office is located, to the Ponte di Mezzo. Clothes, bookshops, souvenirs, bars: indulge yourself, this is the place to do it! Let yourself be drawn in by the charm of the narrow streets of old Pisa, which open onto the Arno for a bucolic stroll.
11. The botanical garden and museum of the University of Pisa
An enchantment of palms and other plant species takes you on a unique botanical journey at theOrto Botanico, Pisa's botanical garden. Centuries-old trees share the grounds with exotic plants, creating an enchanting mosaic of colors. Founded in the XVIᵉ century on the banks of the Arno, the garden is ideally placed between Piazza dei Miracoli and Piazza dei Cavalieri. Take advantage of your stroll to also visit the Botanical Museum, where portraits of famous botanists are on display, as well as a fine collection of botanical-related objects and educational watercolors. The highlight of the show is a gigantic herbarium containing over 300,000 species!
12. Borgo Stretto, medieval Pisa
Borgo Stretto is another of Pisa's shopping streets, lined with colorful buildings. First floors and arches add charm to this colorful district. It's the ideal place to stroll, shop and have a drink at the nearby Pub Orzo Bruno. It's hard to miss this medieval quarter, as it's the inevitable gateway to the Cathedral and the Leaning Tower of Pisa from the south. You're in the heart of an authentic district, which has retained its identity despite the inevitable modernization.
Discover the history of Pisa as you wander through its medieval streets on this self-guided audio tour.
13. The Church of Santa Maria della Spina, Pisa's most beautiful little church
Small but beautiful! That's the perfect way to describe theChurch of Santa Maria della Spina, whose Gothic style is reminiscent of magnificent cathedrals the world over. Built in 1230 on the banks of the Arno, it takes its name from a relic of Christ's crown received in 1333. Often threatened by the adjacent river, the church has undergone several interventions, including a major restructuring in 1871, when it was raised by one metre. Still recently restored, it is only open to visitors on certain days. Inside, you can admire Andrea and Nino Pisano's Madonna of the Rose, as well as temporary exhibitions. Even if you don't go inside the church, don't hesitate to pass by: it's a real splendor!
14. The National Museum of the Palais Royal, discovering the Medicis
One of Pisa's finest museums is the Museo Nazionale del Palazzo Reale, housed in a building designed for Ferdinando I de' Medici. Here you can admire works from the courts of the Medici, Lorraine and Savoy, as well as local collections. A magnificent exhibition awaits you! Among the treasures on display are Medici tapestries by Stradano, the clothes of Eleonora of Toledo, and a vast collection of armor dating from the 15th to 17th centuries. The museum also houses works by Rosso Fiorentino, as well as ivory miniatures from the Ceci collection. If you're an art lover, you've found your favorite place in Pisa!
15. A bucolic stroll along the banks of the River Arno
We've mentioned it several times, and with good reason: the Arno River is a must-see in Pisa! 240 kilometers long, it flows through Tuscany, including Pisa and Florence. It divides the city in two, linking the two banks by two bridges: the ponte Solferino and the ponte di Mezzo. If a stroll along the banks is as bucolic as you'd like during the day, it's even more beautiful in the evening, when the river reflects the lights of the city. Better still, you can book an excursion on the Arno to admire the city and its architectural treasures from the boat.
You can also explore Pisa from a unique angle on a kayak excursion on the Arno River at sunset on the Lungarno by booking right here.
16. Palazzo Blu, Tuscan painting in the spotlight
While strolling along the banks of the Arno, stop off at the Palazzo Blu, whose real name is "Palazzo Giuli Rosselmini Gualandi". Its beautiful blue facade, however, has led to a name change over the years. This museum of art and culture hosts permanent exhibitions by famous painters, including Picasso and Warhol, as well as more contemporary temporary exhibitions. Various cultural events are also held here several times a year. A must-see in Pisa for art lovers!
17. Admire the Tuttomondo fresco
Inaugurated on June 20, 1989, the Tuttomondo fresco is now world-famous. Yes, you know... those funny little multi-colored men, all tangled up in each other, faceless and funny as hell? This work, by Keith Haring, is one of the world's symbols of pop art culture. A perfect representation of joy and optimism, the fresco captivates strollers on Via Zandonai.
Where to stay in Pisa
The Santa Maria district is the ideal place to set down your suitcases in Pisa, because of its proximity to the various points of interest. If you prefer a quieter setting, the San Francesco district is a better option, to enjoy the serenity of the Arno River.
- The best location
Do you like to be close to a city's points of interest? The Grand Hotel del Duomo is located between Piazza dei Miracoli and Palazzo Blu, right in the heart of the city. Click here to to book this beautiful, classy Pisa establishment.
- The warmest
A warm welcome awaits you atHotel Villa Kinzica, which boasts a beautiful view of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The old-fashioned decor lends its charm to this quality address, which you can book here in just one click.
- The cheapest
You won't find better value for money in Pisa! TheAbitalia Tower Plaza is close to the train station and all points of interest. It features a wellness area with hammam and whirlpool baths, as well as a children's club. A real favorite, bookable right here.
What to do in Pisa with children
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is of course a must-see with children during your stay! But be sure to have your history lesson ready, because they'll have 1001 questions to ask you about why this unusual tower is so inclined! But what else can you do in Pisa with children?
Go to the beach, of course! It may come as a surprise, but the Marina de Pisa, with its family-friendly stretches of sand and pebbles, stretches right out from Pisa's marina. Between a stroll around the harbour with its pretty boats and activities on the beach (remember to bring shoes for the pebble beaches!), children will have a great day out.
Pisa's Botanical Gardens are also a great place for families. Nestled in a green setting, it invites you to stroll around peacefully, in very pleasant surroundings. The Giardino Scotto, with its playgrounds, is also a great address for families on vacation in Pisa.
The city can also be explored by bike or boat, making it even more fun for children. And don't forget to take a nice family photo in fun positions in front of the Tuttomondo fresco!
Looking for even more inspiration? Perhaps you'll find it among these 27 must-do activities in Italy, some of which are perfectly suited to families!
Where to eat in Pisa
Tuscany is a gourmet destination, so get your taste buds ready! While "tourist traps" do exist, as they do everywhere, some addresses really stand out for their quality. Follow the Petit Futé guide!
- Authentic flavours
Push open the doors of Galileo, a restaurant whose regional dishes will sweep you away in a whirlwind of flavors. At this fine dining establishment, terroir and tradition are showcased in perfectly mastered dishes. Locals and visitors alike come back again and again!
- Italian pasta in the spotlight
Looking for a good pasta dish during your stay in Italy? Head for Osteria dei Mille, an address renowned for the quality of this typically Italian dish. The menu doesn't offer much choice, and that's just as well! It's the assurance of fresh products mastered by the chef.
- Genuine Italian pizza
To come to Italy without treating yourself to a good pizza would be sacrilege. But to do so, you need to choose a quality address like Pizzeria la Tana, whose pizzas are renowned, even among the locals. And it's all served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, just the way we like it!
Find out more about Italy's 20 culinary specialties, so you can enjoy them all during your stay. In Pisa, one of the main gastronomic specialties is Pasta e Ceci, a dish of pasta cooked in a sauce of chickpeas and rosemary tomato paste. In one of Pisa's fine restaurants, we also invite you to try zuppa alla Pisana, a traditional soup made with black cabbage and cannellini beans.
As you can see, there's much more to Pisa than its famous Leaning Tower! The architectural treasures are matched only by the charm of the old town's narrow streets. Pisa is an ideal destination to visit from May onwards, when the weather is mild but not unbearable. Are you lucky enough to have at least two weeks' vacation? Discover Italy's 15 most beautiful villages, to round off your stay. These 10 towns to visit in Italy will round off your Italian road trip with a bang!
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