Things to see in Pisa
By Dion Protani
|
Latest update: 30 December 2023
|
The most famous sight in the Tuscan city of Pisa needs no introduction but the city itself has a great deal more to offer than its Leaning Tower alone.
Located just 14 kilometres from the coast, Pisa was once one of the mighty maritime republics of Italy, in competition with the likes of Genoa and Venice. Much of the city's success was due to its position on the banks of the River Arno which runs through its centre. The river leads into the Ligurian Sea to the west and to Florence, to its east. |
Related links
Around Piazza del Duomo and the Leaning Tower
Evidence of Pisa's glorious past is tangible as you walk its captivating medieval streets with the crescendo arriving at the UNESCO World Heritage Site: Piazza dei Miracoli. Also known as Piazza del Duomo, the unique square is a veritable treasure trove of glorious architecture. With their own architectural style known as Pisan Romanesque, Pisa's Cathedral, Baptistery and unmistakable Bell Tower (the Leaning Tower) are the signature attractions of the square.
There is still more to Piazza dei Miracoli however, one on side is Camposanto Monumentale, a monumental cemetery, and on the opposite side, the fascinating Museo delle Sinopie.
There is still more to Piazza dei Miracoli however, one on side is Camposanto Monumentale, a monumental cemetery, and on the opposite side, the fascinating Museo delle Sinopie.
Across the Arno
Away from the main attractions of the Piazza del Duomo, the city centre is around a 15 minute walk. At this point you'll find the river with its elegant riverside boulevards, dotted with museums and churches. On the southern side of the Arno, the Palazzo Blu, Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina and Chiesa di Santo Sepolcro are of particular interest and this is also where you'll find the main shopping street in Pisa, Via del Corso which eventually leads up to the train station.
Not only does Pisa have its own airport, but the convenience of its location is quite unusual in modern cities. It's only three kilometres from the city centre to Pisa Airport but you can also take the recently-installed Pisamover train/tram which takes just six minutes.
Not only does Pisa have its own airport, but the convenience of its location is quite unusual in modern cities. It's only three kilometres from the city centre to Pisa Airport but you can also take the recently-installed Pisamover train/tram which takes just six minutes.