Things to do in Pisa
Pisa, often overshadowed by the tilted tower, is a charming city with a rich history and charm. This guide will tell you what to do before and after you visit the famous leaning tower.
Pisa, located in the heart of Tuscany, is one of Italy’s top destinations.
Most tourists will only stop by for a quick day trip, snapping a few pictures before moving on to their next destination. There is much more to this charming Tuscan center than just its leaning bell tower.
This guide will help you discover the best things to do in Pisa to experience its vibrancy and explore the city.
You’ll also find some helpful information about Pisa, including where to stay and eat.
Pisa Travel Guide
Continue scrolling for more information and tips on planning your trip to Pisa. ).
- Does Pisa deserve a visit?
- How long do you require?
- The best time to visit
- How to get there
- How To Get Around
- Tips on visiting
- Where can I eat
- Where To Stay
- What to pack
Top things to do in Pisa
Here are our top suggestions for things to do in Pisa if you only have a limited time.
- Free walking tour
- Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Explore the Square of Miracles
- A food tour
- Shop in Borgo Stretto
Continue reading to get more information about these activities and other fun things you can do in Pisa.
- Free walking tour
Pisa’s worn-out, unmaintained facades are often ignored, but once you get past the lush grass of the Square of Miracles, the city can be charming.
A free guided walking tour will allow you to explore Pisa’s hidden treasures with a local and truly appreciate the city. As you explore both famous and offbeat locations, soak up the history, myths and culture.
The essentials you should know about
- Hours:
- Price: Free with a tip contribution of your choice
- Location
What guests say about
“Alberto’s AMAZING!” He is one of our best guides. He’s a good storyteller and is very knowledgeable. He gave us tips on the local culture and food, as well. […] “I highly recommend taking a tour with him.” — Prathyusha (May 2023), United Kingdom
- Pisa’s Leaning Tower is a must-see!
Over 800 years ago, an architectural error became one of Italy’s most famous landmarks.
The Pisa Tower is a famous building in Pisa that defies gravity.
It’s usually experienced by taking the required photos in various ways, mostly holding the tower or pushing it down.
For a few euros more, you can go to the top to see the incredible construction of the tower and enjoy the panoramic views of Pisa.
Hours :9 am to 8 pm
Entrance Fee: EUR27 (29.30 USD). *Includes entry to all buildings on the Square of Miracles and a timed Pisa Tower Ticket.
Why does the Leaning Tower of Pisa continue to lean?
The Pisa Tower has been leaning for centuries and is still standing.
The soil on which the tower was constructed is what caused the tower to lean and sink in the first instance. That same soil now protects the tower against fatal seismic events throughout time.
The restoration work started in 1990 is largely responsible for the tower’s preserved lean. At that time, it was closed because of the high risk of falling due to the tower’s 5.5-degree angle (the maximum tilt was estimated at 5.44).
The restoration work raised the tower by a certain amount and improved its stability. They could have positioned the tower vertically with more effort. However, this would have erased the allure and beauty of one of Italy’s most famous landmarks. It would also cause a major identity crisis.
- Visit the Pisa Cathedral
The Pisa Cathedral was built in 1092, and its interior is equally impressive.
The Gothic pulpit, carved in the 14th century by Giovani Pinsano, is one of the most stunning antiquities.
Romanesque details are everywhere you look, so it’s important to take your time and really enjoy the Romanesque details.
Hours of Operation:Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Entrance Fee: EUR15 *Includes entry to all buildings on the Square of Miracles, except for the Pisa Tower.
- Discover the Baptistry (the Baptisterium)
The Battistero di San Giovanni, built in 1152, is still the largest baptismal in Italy. In 1564 Galileo Galilei also was baptized on this site.
You’ll be greeted by an octagonal structure that is two stories high.
The baptismal font (basin), which is a large, rectangular basin, sits in the middle of the room on a stunning arrangement of Arab-inspired tiles. Pisano, a renowned sculptor and renowned gray-striped white marble arch with monolithic columns rises from each vertex.
You can admire the details from the women’s gallery, and you can listen to the acclaimed acoustics in the building. The guardians of the Baptistry will sing for you every 30 minutes.
Insider tip: Go upstairs and look for the window that faces the cathedral to get the best view (and photo) possible!
Hours :9 am to 8 pm
Entrance Fee: EUR15 *Includes entry to all buildings on the Square of Miracles, except for the Pisa Tower.