Pisa
More than just a leaning tower…
- Where? Mid-west Tuscany, Italy
- When? April – June (& Autumn)
- How? Flight directly into Pisa – bus or taxi from airport
To my shame, Pisa was not very high on my list of priorities when I set out to explore Tuscany last October – it always struck me as somewhat of a tourist trap, and my interest in the city was mostly excited by the thought of finally seeing the leaning tower. In hindsight, I would like to retract my misinformed presumptions, for this is a city that is so much more than just a tower.
As expected, crowds of excited tourists hurry to the main attraction, with cameras at the ready for the iconic leaning tower photograph. It’s a great starting point for a day out in Pisa, get there early, avoid the queues & escape to the city’s more quieter streets during the afternoon. Quaint courtyards, ornate architecture & flourishing gardens, the city of Pisa is a cultural maze. There are two sides to the city, resting either side of the river, and both offering a unique perspective, with plenty of things to see and do. Whilst we managed to cram most things into a single day, I wouldn’t rush to get everything done – give yourself some breathing space and enjoy the city a little bit longer if you can.
Sites & Attractions
1. The Leaning Tower of Pisa
Price? £16
Touristy? Yes, but absolutely worth it! Climbing the tower is a must – it is the weirdest sensation, especially as you near the top. The views from the tower are incredible & I even managed to capture one of my favourite shots from the trip of the shadowed crowds beneath me. The rippling sound of the bells is a wonderful finale to the climb & the intricate details of the tower’s architecture will certainly gain your attention.
2. Cattedrale di Pisa
Price? Free
A definite must-see for it’s beautiful architecture, design & artwork. The interior is breathtaking & incredibly peaceful – whilst I don’t think the architecture quite compares to Duomo di Siena, it is still worth stepping inside and taking a look around.
3. Battistero di San Giovanni & Camposanto
Price? Battistero: £6 / Camposanto: £6
Whilst unfortunately, the Battistero was closed to visitors on this occasion, we were still able to admire this beautiful structure from afar. On the bright side, this gave us plenty more time to explore the Camposanto, which, in my opinion, is very underrated – the Camposanto receives less publicity than it’s neighbouring structures, but is an amazing piece of architecture that certainly deserves just as much of your time. If you love fine art, twisting pillars, towering archways & marble statues, then the Camposanto is the place for you. For me, it was the slinky shadows of the pillars and arches, the silent footfall and the patterned walls that made this structure so special.
4. Palazzo dei Cavalieri
Located in the quiet of Knight’s square, the Palazzo dei Cavalieri is hidden away from the crowds, concealed behind a maze of cobbled pathways, Italian buildings and bustling side-streets. A little taste of Pisa’s cultural heritage.
5. Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
Explore this tiny museum & the rich history of Pisa – statues, ornaments, architectural pieces & more. Additionally, this site offers one of the best views of the leaning tower, foregrounded by an empty garden courtyard. Head to the top floor cafe, indulge with a coffee & enjoy the view.
6. Orto Botanico
Arguably my favourite location in Pisa – whilst we missed out on the flowery flourish of Spring, the University gardens have a rich range of plants: regional, national, tropical. It is such a quiet, discrete space, where you can really take yourself away from the business of city life. Platoons of bamboo, dense jungle greenhouses, prehistoric lily-pads – take a book, grab a seat & enjoy.
7. Borgo Stretto
Located in the heart of the city, this charming street is every shoppers dream. Take a break from sight-seeing & head down this beautiful street for window shopping, alfresco dining & endless gelato stalls. As you near the end of the high-street & meet the river crossing, take a minute to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and incredible view. We approached the river late afternoon, as the sun began to shimmer gold, bought some very needed gelato and sat along the river wall. Definitely one of my favourite memories from the trip.
8. Via San Martino
Head across the river for the via San Martino flea market, a treasure trove of vintage pieces, homemade designs, jewellery & antiques. There’s nothing I enjoy quite as much as scavenging through mountains of vintage pieces when I’m abroad – you never know what you might find & what story it has behind it. I managed to take home the most beautiful handmade butterfly earrings from a lovely Italian women – she had a vast collection of handmade pieces, unlike anything I’d ever seen before. It’s definitely worth a visit if you get the opportunity.
9. Keith Haring Mural
If you continue straight across the river & head down yet another shopping lovers delight, you’ll find yourself immersed within Piazza di Vittoria Emanuele II, a lively food market lined with cafes, bars and restaurants. Hidden on the cusp is a colourful mural by American artist Keith Haring – you will definitely recognise his work when you see it. A symbol of peace, love and harmony, and a quirky addition to your Pisa tour.
10. Santa Maria della Spina
The Santa Maria della Spina marked the beginning and end of our day out in Pisa. A stunning structure set alongside the river Arno. I didn’t think this Italian church could get any more beautiful on a first sighting, but was proven wrong when I returned in the early evening.
Food & Drink
Pisa is famous for a few foodie specials, including cecina (chickpea foccacia), ribollita (stew) & beans uccelletto – whilst admittedly, I didn’t manage to try any of these regional delicacies, I am well informed that they’re worth a try.
A few recommendations to consider on your trip:
- I Porci Comodi: famous for affordable, stuffed sandwiches, this little eatery was overflowing with visitors trying to get their hands on one of their cured meat loafs. Highly recommended by locals & visitors. Via delle Belle Torri, 40, 56100 Pisa PI, Italy – £
- La Taverna di Pulchinella: try a little pizza in Pisa from a brick baked oven – authentic, delicious, affordable. Via Garofani, 10, 56125 Pisa PI, Italy – £
- La Pergoletta Pisa: a beautiful restaurant complimented by a courtyard scaled in vines & vegetation. A quaint & cosy spot serving traditional Tuscan dishes. Via delle Belle Torri, 40, 56100 Pisa PI, Italy – ££-£££
I always love hearing your recommendations, so make sure to leave some more in the comment section below.
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Calendar Girl 
Well done Gen, it’s very comprehensive and very well written.
xx
Alan J NORRIS Porchester House Kingswood Warren Park Woodland Way, Kingswood Tadworth, Surrey KT20 6AD
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