Pisa is one of Italy’s most iconic destinations, and that’s thanks in large part to its famously Leaning Tower. But there is so much more to this city than a quirky photo opportunity. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Pisa offers a huge mix of history, culture and architecture. And when you pair all of that with its charm, it makes it well worth a visit.
Whether you’re spending the day or staying a while, be sure to grab your Piazza dei Miracoli Pisa tickets in advance. This UNESCO World Heritage site includes not just the tower, but also the cathedral, baptistery, and cemetery. All of these are architectural wonders in their own right. Let’s take a look at why Pisa should be on your travel list this year.Â
You cannot miss out on the tower.
It really does lean, and it’s just as fascinating in person as in the pictures. Construction on the Leaning Tower of Pisa began in 1173, but due to the soft ground beneath it, the structure began tilting just a few years later. Instead of being torn down, the tilt became a trademark, and today visitors can climb its nearly 300 spiral steps for a unique view of the area. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in the world and seeing it up close is a bucket list experience.
Piazza dei Miracoli.
The Leaning Tower is part of the Piazza dei Miracoli in Italy. It means the Square of Miracles. It’s a breathtaking complex of religious buildings that represent the pinnacle of medieval Italian architecture. Not only do you get to see the tower, the square includes the Cathedral of Santa Maria Asunta, the Baptistery which is the largest in Italy, and the Camposanto Monumentale, which is a monumental cemetery. Buying your Piazza Dei Miracoli Pisa tickets ahead of time ensures you explore all of these treasures without the long wait.
Streets with hidden gems.
Beyond the tourist filled square, Pisa is a vibrant university town. You’ll find charming alleyways, quiet piazzas and a laid back vibe everywhere. The University of Pisa was founded in 1343 and it gives the city a youthful energy, while centuries old architecture and local cafes add character and balance. Explore the Arno River, check out street art by Keith Haring, and stop by local shops for authentic Tuscan goods. The best parts of Pisa are often the ones you overlook.
Rich artistic and historical heritage.
While Florence often gets the spotlight for Renaissance art, Pisa has its own impressive collection. The Museum dell’Opera del Duomo and Museo Nazionale di San Mateo hold priceless works of art and artifacts that span centuries.
It’s the perfect starting point for exploring Tuscany.
The location of Pisa makes it a perfect hub for Tuscany. It’s just a short train ride from Florence, Lucca or the coast. So Pisa is an excellent start point for your Italian adventure, whether you’re going to the vineyards of Chianti or the seaside towns of Cinque Terre, Pisa fits seamlessly into any itinerary.