Sure, you’ve heard about Pisa’s iconic leaning wonder, but this Tuscan treasure trove offers so much more.
Ready to unearth Pisa’s secrets? From grand historical sights to those snug corners tourists often overlook, we’ve got you covered. And with Trainline by your side, this Italian adventure is just a scenic train ride away.
Image Credit: Getty Images, naumoid. Image Location: Pisa Baptisery, Pisa, Italy.
Best things to do in Pisa, Italy: unveiling the classics
- Pisa’s Leaning Tower. No trip to Pisa is complete without marveling at this architectural wonder. Snap that obligatory pic of you holding up the tower like no one’s watching!
- Pisa Cathedral. Just next to the tower, this Romanesque masterpiece awaits. The interiors are an awe-inspiring showcase of Italian craftsmanship.
- Pisa Baptistery. Known for its acoustics, this circular sanctuary near the tower is where you’ll witness echoes transformed into enchanting harmonies.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Givaga. Image Location: Santa Maria della Spina, Pisa, Italy.
Hidden gems in Pisa: off the beaten path
- Santa Maria della Spina. This tiny Gothic church by the Arno River might just steal your heart. It’s a gem often missed by many, and its intricate façade is a delightful find.
- Palazzo Blu. Dive into art! This blue palace turned museum hosts a rich collection of artworks and often features notable temporary exhibitions.
- Keith Haring’s Tuttomondo mural. A modern touch in a historic city. Find this vibrant, large-scale mural by the iconic American artist Keith Haring in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II.
- Piazza della Pera. Ditch the crowds and head to Pisa’s best-kept secret: Piazza della Pera. While its official tag is Piazza Chiara Gambacorti, the locals gave it a catchy nickname after a pear-shaped Etruscan stone at its entrance. Surrounded by medieval and Renaissance marvels, pull up a chair at a cozy café and sip your coffee like a true Pisan.
- Giardino Scotto. Forget the clichés; Pisa’s got serene pockets too, like this tranquil oasis nestled within a fortress dating back to the 1440s. It’s where the locals escape – whether they’re jogging, studying, or basking under the Tuscan sun. If you’re around in summer, an open-air cinema and music festivals await. Free entry, endless memories.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Wirestock. Image Location: Campo Santo, Pisa, Italy.
What to see in Pisa: cultural delights
- Campo Santo. Also known as the “holy field”, this monumental cemetery brims with rich history and stunning frescoes.
- Museo delle Sinopie. Discover the preparatory sketches of the frescoes in Campo Santo, offering a unique peek into medieval artistry.
Pisa in a day: a whirlwind experience
If you’ve only got 24 hours, here’s how to spend it:
Morning: Kickstart with the iconic Leaning Tower and Pisa Cathedral.
Midday: Stroll along the Arno River and discover Santa Maria della Spina.
Afternoon: Dive into the arts at Palazzo Blu and take a cultural trip through Museo delle Sinopie.
Evening: Dine in a cozy trattoria, savoring Pisa’s culinary delights. Some of the local favorite spots include Trattoria da Stelio, Il Ristoro della Pe’, and Ristorante La Buca.
Image Credit: Getty Images, lkonya. Image Location: Pisa, Italy.
Pro tip. If you’re in Pisa and only have the chance to try one dish, make it Cecina. It’s a savory chickpea flour pancake, crispy on the outside and soft inside, often seasoned with a touch of black pepper and enjoyed with a cold beer. Often found in pizzerias, this gluten-free delight is a local favorite and embodies the simple yet rich flavors of Tuscan cuisine. Don’t miss out!
All aboard to Pisa with Trainline
Think about taking a train ride through Italy’s picturesque landscape, past verdant hills and quaint villages, with Pisa as your destination. Trainline ensures that journey itself is part of the adventure, turning the trip itself into a parade of postcard-perfect vistas.
Pisa, with its blend of iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, promises a day (or more) of enchantment. Go beyond the usual, discover its tucked-away wonders, and let Pisa leave its indelible mark on your heart.
All set for the adventure? Pre-book your train adventure, ensure a seamless ride, and make that Pisa dream come alive!
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, David Soanes Photography. Image Location: Pisa, Italy.