Pisa is a delightsome Italian city located in Tuscany. The ancient city is famous for its historic leaning tower which has won global recognition. Apart from this famous attraction, the city is also endowed with several incredible surprises including delicious food, historical churches, rich and interesting history, tons of outdoor activities and lots more.
No wonder many tourists who come from all over the world into Europe have simply made this place a stopover just to enjoy and experience some of these amazing great features. If you’ve got more time on your side, it is recommended to stay over to explore more in guided private tours of europe of the rich charms and aristocratic goodness of this ancient city which has always been linked to the sea ever since its inception.
Top things to See and Do in Pisa, Italy
- Admire the Duomo
The cathedral is one of the most exciting but at the same time, the biggest feature of the Piazza del Duomo. Although the real highlight of the sightseeing private tours of Pisa is building of the cathedral started in the 11th century, some of its outstanding features like the bronze doors which were designed by Pisano Andrea have not been there until the 16th century.
- Visit the Baptistery of St. John
The Baptistery of St. John is situated right next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa where it currently stands few meters higher than the Tower itself. The Baptistery was built in the 12th century. Although the interior design of the Baptistery is less attractive, the exterior is well-ornamentally adorned with sophisticated carved reliefs. To this end, there is no need stressing the crowd to go inside.
- See Museo di San Matteo
This museum which is known to host one of the largest exhibits of Tuscan renaissance art all over Europe is filled with a tremendous collection of original artworks that were retrieved from the churches in Pisa. Despite the littleness of this museum, it has remained a popular attraction for many visitors due to the quantum of historic and interesting artifacts it currently accommodates.
- Check out the University of Pisa
The University of Pisa is one of the oldest educational institutions in Italy. It was first founded in the year 1343 but was officially opened in 1544. Orto Botanico di Pisa, known as the oldest botanical garden for academic activities is located right in this university. Adorned with lots of interesting architecture, the campus is a great place to take pictures as it is unarguably very beautiful.
- Take a Private Tour to Lucca
Lucca is just a twenty-five minutes train ride from Pisa. It is a small but beautiful city with renaissance and medieval buildings at the center of the city to explore. Feel free to either bike or walk above its ancient fortified walls and get saturated in the city’s atmosphere.
- Get Your Art Fix
Palazzo Blu which is also known as the Blue Palace currently houses numerous varieties of historic artworks that were in existence right from the 14th to 20th centuries. It is located along the river in the historic center. Access into the significantly historic Palazzo Blu is free of charge where over 300 artworks can be found.
- See the Chiesa di Santa Maria Della Spina
Chiesa di Santa Maria Della Spina is a historic church in Pisa that was built between 1223 and 1230. The architectural design of the church highly reflects Gothic architecture. Right inside this historic building is the Madonna of the Rose. Statues and tabernacles are used to adorn the extremely ornate exterior of the church.
- Attend a Local Cultural Event
Every summer season, a historical reenactment known as the Gioco del Ponte is often organized. During this event, teams of twenty usually attempt to battle over the Ponte di Mezzo. The Luminara festival is another event that takes place every June 16. This is done yearly in honor of patron saint San Ranieri. Usually, the lights along the river go dim while numerous candles are lit during this festival.
Relax In A Natural Spa
Ever heard of a natural spa before? Then come to Pisa. This natural spa which is rich in various minerals is believed to have quite a spectrum of rejuvenation and healing properties. The pools are used by a lot of people for relaxation as well as for cardiovascular, respiratory and rehabilitation treatment. This natural spa has been in existence for thousands of years now.
- Visit Camposanto
Legend has it that this cemetery was built right on the same grounds where the soil brought retrieved from the Holy Land was placed. During the Middle Ages, it was generally known to be the site of many pilgrimages.
- See Piazza dei Cavallieri
During the medieval Pisa, this square used to be recognized as the city’s center. Today, it is a good place to find medieval architecture in tons of detail
- Take Cheesy Photos of the Leaning Tower
Obviously, this is the first thing to do in Pisa. As one of the most famous landmarks in Europe, no one can come here without taking a look at the historic tower. As long as it is not closed for restoration, do not hesitate to walk up to it and take those memorable pictures even with other tourists on the lawn.