Pisa is a city in Italy’s Tuscany region, 50 miles west from Florence and most well-known for its iconic Leaning Tower. That is not all Pisa has to offer, however. Its world class education system and powerful maritime history give way to a vibrant city full of noteworthy sites, from gothic churches to lively bars and cafes. Upon visiting Pisa I was eager to make the most of the city and enjoy all that it had to offer, not just its tower.
1). Leaning Tower of Pisa
I know I know, I just said I wanted to explore more than the tower. But that’s why I’ve put it on the list first. This is the first attraction I went to on my day tour of Pisa. Opening at 9 AM, I thought I’d get it ticked off the list, as a visit to Pisa wouldn’t be complete without it. It is world famous after all! I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance like I did. You can book them 30 days beforehand, picking a date and time of your choice. Tickets cost €18, but this doesn’t include the online booking fee, so expect it to be more than this. On the day you can skip right past the queues (yay!) and drop your bags off in the locker rooms by the entrance. Remember to bring photo ID with you, and arrive early! I saw a few people turned away because they showed up late, so better to be safe than sorry. Then its time to enjoy the tower, get your cheesy pose and climb the 297 steps to the top to see amazing views of the city. This will give you a great perspective before you continue with your day of exploring.
If you’re visiting the tower you might as well explore the rest of the square of miracles. This square complex includes a vast stretch of green grass on which the Leaning Tower, the Camposanto, the Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistry stand. Perfectly well kept, the site is an architectural marvel. You will need to pay an additional cost to visit each of them, but it’s more than worth it. Each structure is unique in its own way, but similar in its white stone and Romanesque-Gothic style architecture. Take your time wandering round, snap a few pics and marvel at the finer details.
3). Local Market
A short, 10-minute walk from the square is a small local market along Piazza delle Vettovaglie. It has an array of fresh colourful food, perfect for a quick and cheap lunch snack, or just a way to experience the local way of life. Getting there is also a lovely walk through the city. It’s mainly one straight road which is littered with shops and café’s where you can browse, or stop for a hot drink.
4). Arno River
Once you’ve spent enough time at the market carry on along the main road and you’ll come to the Arno River, the second-most important river in central Italy after the Tiber. With pretty Italian houses either side of the river it’s a picturesque scene which you can enjoy from the paved sidewalks or from the Ponte Di Mezzo bridge. Stand in the middle of the bridge to get the best view.
5). Santa Maria della Spina
If you’re happy to cross the bridge to the other side of the river, walk towards the next bridge – the Ponte Solferino – and you’ll come to a beautiful church, the Santa Maria della Spina. Although small in size, this gothic church is a dramatic piece which stands in contrast to the flowing river, terracotta roofs and dark mountains in the background. Unusual in its style and colouring, the church is an interesting visit you can appreciate in passing.
Make your way back over the bridge towards the center of the city and soak up your surroundings as you go. As for food, follow your nose! It’s easy to find some yummy Italian food on this day tour route.
Visit the Pisa Tours website for more information.
Alice xx
Alice is an Australian based globetrotter. She loves exploring and sharing her adventures as she goes. Alice is the owner at Alice’s Adventures.
Follow Alice
