Pisa
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Latest page update: 5 December 2024
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By Dion Protani
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Historic Pisa is renowned for its iconic Leaning Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the province of Pisa, the city has a population of approximately 91,000 residents.
Apart from the Leaning Tower, Pisa boasts other architectural marvels like the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Baptistery. The city's prestigious university, Scuola Normale Superiore, attracts scholars worldwide. Pisa also offers charming streets, lively squares, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the globe. |
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Pisa: leaning towards elegance
Pisa, positioned in the heart of Tuscany, is famed for its iconic Leaning Tower, a marvel of medieval architecture. Alongside this architectural wonder stands the majestic Pisa Cathedral and the baptistery, forming the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stroll along the Arno River to witness picturesque views and cross the historic Ponte di Mezzo. Delve into Pisa's rich history at the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo, showcasing an impressive collection of medieval art.
For a taste of local culture, explore the bustling streets of Pisa's historic center, lined with charming cafes, shops, and trattorias. Nearby attractions include the enchanting town of Lucca with its intact Renaissance walls and the scenic coastal town of Livorno, known for its seafood delicacies and charming canals.
Stroll along the Arno River to witness picturesque views and cross the historic Ponte di Mezzo. Delve into Pisa's rich history at the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo, showcasing an impressive collection of medieval art.
For a taste of local culture, explore the bustling streets of Pisa's historic center, lined with charming cafes, shops, and trattorias. Nearby attractions include the enchanting town of Lucca with its intact Renaissance walls and the scenic coastal town of Livorno, known for its seafood delicacies and charming canals.
What are the main sights in Pisa?
- Leaning Tower of Pisa: One of the most iconic landmarks in Italy, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a must-see attraction. Visitors can marvel at its unique tilt and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
- Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles): This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to several architectural masterpieces, including the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral (Duomo), the Baptistery, and the Camposanto Monumentale (Monumental Cemetery).
- Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Pisa): Admire the stunning architecture and artwork of the Pisa Cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta. Highlights include its marble façade, intricate interior, and impressive pulpit by Giovanni Pisano.
- Pisa Baptistery (Battistero di San Giovanni): Explore the Pisa Baptistery, one of the largest baptisteries in Italy, known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture, ornate pulpit, and remarkable acoustics.
- Campo Santo Monumentale: Visit the Campo Santo Monumentale, a historic cemetery with elegant arcades and frescoed walls, housing impressive artworks and ancient tombs.
- Museo delle Sinopie: Discover the Museo delle Sinopie, located next to the Camposanto, showcasing preparatory sketches (sinopie) and frescoes from the cemetery's destroyed frescoes.
- Piazza dei Cavalieri: Explore the historic Piazza dei Cavalieri, once the political center of medieval Pisa and now home to the Scuola Normale Superiore, the Palazzo della Carovana, and other notable buildings.
- River Arno: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the River Arno, admiring the picturesque scenery and iconic bridges of Pisa, such as the Ponte di Mezzo.
- Palazzo Blu: Visit Palazzo Blu, a cultural center in Pisa hosting temporary exhibitions, art collections, and cultural events in a beautifully restored historic building.
- Day trips: Take advantage of Pisa's central location in Tuscany to explore nearby attractions such as Florence, Lucca, San Gimignano, and the Tuscan countryside, all easily accessible by train or car.
Comune di Pisa
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Province: Pisa
Region: Tuscany Population: 89,059 (in 2024 - source) Size: 185 km² Elevation: 4 metres Top sights: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa Cathedral, Pisa Baptistery Recommended accommodation: Hotel di Stefano Close by: Marina di Pisa, Livorno, Viareggio, Lucca |
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Public transport: Pisamover rail system, buses, mainline trains
By car: Florence - 1 hr 14, Genoa - 1 hr 47, Rome - 3 hrs 55' |
By air: Pisa Airport - 12 minutes by car or 6 mins Pisamover (5 km)
By train: Viareggio - 12 mins, Livorno - 15 mins, Lucca - 27 mins |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
Year: 1987
Piazza del Duomo, Pisa
Year: 1987
What are the most popular tours and activities in Pisa?
- Leaning Tower of Pisa: Visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its famous tilt. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding area.
- Piazza dei Miracoli: Explore the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), home to the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral (Duomo), the Baptistery, and the Camposanto Monumentale. Guided tours provide insights into the history and architecture of these magnificent landmarks.
- Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: Admire the architectural beauty of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, known for its striking façade, intricate marble work, and impressive interior. Visitors can also explore the cathedral's museum and admire its collection of religious artifacts and artwork.
- Baptistery of St. John: Discover the Baptistery of St. John, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture with its ornate façade, intricate pulpit, and impressive acoustics. Guided tours provide access to the interior, where visitors can admire the baptismal font and beautiful mosaics.
- Campo Santo Monumentale: Visit the Campo Santo Monumentale (Monumental Cemetery), a historic cemetery with elegant arcades and impressive frescoes. Guided tours offer insights into the cemetery's history, art, and notable tombs.
- River Arno Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the River Arno, passing under the iconic bridges of Pisa and enjoying views of the city's skyline. Boat tours provide a unique perspective of Pisa's landmarks and architecture from the water.
Where should I eat in Pisa?
- Osteria dei Cavalieri: Located near the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, this charming osteria offers traditional Tuscan dishes in a historic setting. The menu features homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and regional specialties, accompanied by a selection of local wines.
- Ristorante La Buca: Situated in the heart of Pisa's historic center, La Buca is renowned for its delicious Tuscan cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. Dishes are prepared using locally sourced ingredients, and the menu includes classics like ribollita, bistecca alla fiorentina, and homemade desserts.
- Trattoria Toscana: This cozy trattoria, located near Piazza dei Cavalieri, serves authentic Tuscan fare in a casual setting. From hearty soups and pasta dishes to grilled meats and seafood, Trattoria Toscana offers a diverse menu that highlights the flavors of the region.
- Ristorante Galileo: Set in a historic building overlooking the Arno River, Ristorante Galileo offers panoramic views and delicious Tuscan cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, including homemade pastas, grilled meats, and innovative desserts.
- Osteria Bernardo: Tucked away on a charming side street, Osteria Bernardo is a hidden gem known for its excellent food and friendly service. The menu showcases classic Tuscan dishes with a creative twist, and the restaurant's cozy atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a relaxed meal.
Pisa Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Pisa?
- Hotel Relais Dell'Orologio: Situated in a historic building close to the leaning tower, Hotel Relais Dell'Orologio offers elegant rooms decorated in a classic style. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and minibars. The hotel also features a charming courtyard garden, a bar, and a breakfast room serving a delicious buffet breakfast.
- NH Pisa: Conveniently located near the Piazza dei Miracoli and the city center, NH Pisa offers contemporary accommodations with comfortable rooms equipped with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a fitness center, a bar, and a restaurant serving Italian and international cuisine. The hotel also provides bicycle rental services for exploring the city.
- Grand Hotel Duomo: Overlooking the famous Piazza dei Miracoli, Grand Hotel Duomo offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the leaning tower and the cathedral. The hotel features a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, a restaurant serving Tuscan specialties, and a bar. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi and bicycle rental services.
- Hotel Bologna: Located in the heart of the city, Hotel Bologna offers cozy accommodations in a historic building. The hotel features comfortable rooms with traditional furnishings, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast served in the breakfast room or on the outdoor terrace.
- Hotel Villa Kinzica: Situated near the Piazza dei Miracoli, Hotel Villa Kinzica offers comfortable accommodations in a quiet residential area. The hotel features spacious rooms with modern amenities, a garden terrace where guests can relax, and a bar serving drinks and snacks. Bicycle rental services are available for exploring the city and its surroundings.
What's the closest airport to Pisa?
Pisa International Airport (Aeroporto di Pisa - Galileo Galilei) (PSA):
- Located in Pisa, approximately 1 kilometer from the city center.
- Pisa Airport is the main airport serving the city and the surrounding region.
- From Pisa Airport, you can easily reach the city center by various transportation options, including taxi, bus, or even on foot if you don't have much luggage.
Transport options from Pisa Airport to the city centre
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. The journey to the city center typically takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- Bus: The PisaMover shuttle bus connects Pisa Airport to Pisa Centrale Railway Station. The journey takes approximately 5 minutes, and the service operates every day. From Pisa Centrale, you can explore the city center on foot or catch connecting buses to other destinations.
- Walk: If you don't have much luggage and prefer to walk, it's possible to reach the city center from the airport on foot. The distance is approximately 1 kilometer, and the walk takes around 15-20 minutes.
What's the main train station in Pisa?
Pisa Centrale Railway Station:
- Located in the city center of Pisa, near the Leaning Tower of Pisa and other major attractions.
- Pisa Centrale is the main train station in Pisa and a major transportation hub in Tuscany.
- From Pisa Centrale, you can easily access other cities and towns in Tuscany, as well as destinations throughout Italy, via the regional and high-speed train services.
What private transfer options are there for Pisa?
A private transfer from Pisa Airport to Pisa city centre takes around 15 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car in Pisa?
Hertz:
- Address: Piazzale Mario Cobianchi, 1, 56121 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 050 20022
Europcar:
- Address: Aeroporto Galileo Galilei, 56121 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 050 41026
Avis:
- Address: Aeroporto Galileo Galilei, 56121 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 050 41026
Sixt:
- Address: Aeroporto Galileo Galilei, 56121 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 02 9475 7979
Budget:
- Address: Aeroporto Galileo Galilei, 56121 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 050 24024
Maggiore:
- Address: Via Cisanello, 2, 56124 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 050 502681
- Address: Piazzale Mario Cobianchi, 1, 56121 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 050 20022
Europcar:
- Address: Aeroporto Galileo Galilei, 56121 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 050 41026
Avis:
- Address: Aeroporto Galileo Galilei, 56121 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 050 41026
Sixt:
- Address: Aeroporto Galileo Galilei, 56121 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 02 9475 7979
Budget:
- Address: Aeroporto Galileo Galilei, 56121 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 050 24024
Maggiore:
- Address: Via Cisanello, 2, 56124 Pisa PI, Italy
- Phone: +39 050 502681
