What to visit in Pisa. Where to go from Pisa. When is the season? When is the best time to go

Pisa is a city in Italy, located in the Tuscany region, ten kilometers from the Ligurian Sea. The symbol of the city is the Leaning Tower, which has the status of a world heritage site. In fact, in Pisa you can see many famous and worthy attractions, each of which surprises rich history and impeccable architectural execution.

In addition, the history of Pisa successfully began in the 9th century BC, when the Etruscans lived on the lands. Various interesting sights have survived to this day, each of which can surprise you with its architectural splendor.

So, in Pisa you can see the following attractions:

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a landmark that appeared due to a serious mistake during construction activities. Construction was carried out in two stages, as a result of which it took almost two centuries.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa appeared in 1360, after which regular work began to strengthen the facility. Despite the efforts of architects and builders, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is still deviating from its natural position at a rate of 1.2 millimeters per year. Until the Leaning Tower of Pisa falls, tourists will enjoy the local landmark.

Location: Piazza del Duomo, 56126.

The Field of Miracles (Piazza dei Miracoli) is a square surrounded by a wall. There are four attractions here:

• Cathedral.
• Baptistery.
• Bell tower.
• Cemetery.

The Field of Miracles was included in the official list World Heritage UNESCO in 1987.

Construction of the Pisa Cathedral began in 1063. From the very beginning, there was a desire for an organic combination of details from different architectural styles. Moreover, even Islamic features were used. Such eclecticism was meant to emphasize the scope of commercial activity in Pisa.

Pisa Cathedral was consecrated in 1118 by the Pope Gelasius II. Subsequently, numerous restorations were carried out, after each of which certain changes were found.

Location: Piazza del Duomo - 56126.

The Baptistery is one of the most famous landmarks in Pisa. The cult object is located on central square and is included in the architectural ensemble of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The baptistery is designed specifically for the sacrament of baptism. Moreover, the tradition has existed since 1363. Construction activities took more than 200 years, as a result of which the building was influenced by different architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic.

The Baptistery in Pisa is the largest of its kind in all of Italy.

The monument depicts a she-wolf approximately life-size. At the same time, the she-wolf feeds milk to two children. The monument has existed since the 5th century BC, and it is an illustration of the mythological story about how the she-wolf fed Remus and Romulus. The Capitoline Wolf is one of the most famous symbols of all of Italy.

Location: Piazza del Campidoglio - 1.

The Arno Promenade is one of the most attractive places to stroll in Pisa.

The Arno River is characterized by its turbulent and dangerous character. To tame it, it was necessary to create an embankment of red brick and sandstone. This combination immediately emphasizes the true spirit of medieval Pisa.

While walking along the embankment, you can see the knight's fortress with loopholes and fortified walls, and small churches.

The fortress walls of Pisa formerly served as the walls of the Republic. To date, the wall has remained in very good condition, despite the fact that the construction of the object started in 1155. At different times, two systems of military fencing were added to the existing wall. Towers were erected every three hundred meters.

The second largest square in Pisa, located in historical center city ​​is Piazza Dei Cavalieri. Here are palaces, the Church of St. Stephen, and the High School of Pisa. Peculiarities architectural ensemble allow us to understand how great the influence of medieval architecture is.

Location: Piazza dei Cavalieri.

Piazza Duomo contains attractions that influenced the monumental art of Italy from the 11th to the 14th centuries.

In the central part is the Cathedral of the Ascension of the Virgin Mary, which is a display of Islamic, Romanesque, Byzantine styles. The decor includes mosaic finishing, polychrome marble, and bronze relief images.

In addition, here you can see the baptistery, bell tower, and Campo Santo cemetery. Each object is closely related to medieval architecture.

Location: Piazza del Duomo - 56010 Pisa PI.

On the banks of the Arno River is the Church of Santa Maria della Spina, built according to the best principles of the Gothic style. The appearance of the attraction dates back to 1230.

Features of the architectural design of the church:

• The façade of the building is based on multi-colored marble.
• The niches are decorated with sculptural images of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and angels.
• The right side is decorated with floral patterns, small turrets, and numerous niches.

As a result, the church is one of the most worthy examples of Pisan architecture.

Location: Lungarno Gambacorti - 56125 Pisa PI.

The Camposanto (Holy Land) Memorial Cemetery has existed since 1278. A cemetery was built next to the sacred land, which was brought by ship from Jerusalem after the Crusades. Previously, burial in this territory was considered honorable.

In 1944 memorial cemetery was destroyed by the Americans, but restoration efforts were still successfully carried out.

The cemetery has the following features:

• The main part is a courtyard with the tombs of noble people, decorated with marble sculptures.
• In the inner part there are graves for wealthy and less wealthy people.
• The building is decorated unique frescoes Renaissance, mosaic;
• The basis of the architectural style is Gothic elements.

The Camposanto Memorial Cemetery is distinguished by its worthy execution.

Location: Piazza del Duomo- 17, 56126 Pisa Pl.

The Agostini Palace appeared at the turn of the 14th – 15th centuries thanks to the reconstruction of several medieval buildings and their unification with one facade.

Agostini is distinguished by the following attributes:

• Clay reliefs.
• Double and triple lancet windows separated by columns.
• Floral ornament.
• Niches between the windows with human figures and Agostini symbols.

Every tourist can appreciate the beauty of the Agostini Palace.

Location: 56126, Lungarno Antonio Pacinotti - 26.

The church is located in the historical center of Pisa and dates back to the 13th century. The religious landmark originally belonged to the Knights of the Dominican Order, but was later converted into a parish church.

The façade is made of white and gray marble and is divided into three tiers. In the central part you can see a large Gothic rose. Paintings, altars and sarcophagi are kept inside the church.

Location: Piazza Santa Caterina.

Initially they belonged to the navy of the Pisan Republic. Subsequently, the arsenals were owned by the Medici family, whose representatives repeatedly became the rulers of Florence.

Today, the Medici Arsenals are used for a maritime museum.

The Archbishop's Palace is one of the most tall buildings in Pisa. Its construction took place in the 15th century. Moreover, the palace was built on the ruins of a 12th century building. Subsequently, the palace complex had to be restored, preserving the best principles of the Florentine style.

The monastery has existed since 1393. It originally belonged to Benedictine monks. However, in 1808 the nuns left the monasteries, but later returned to them. Thus, the testing periods were still successfully overcome.

These days, the monastery complex is closed for worship. The building is used for conferences and congresses of the Cassa di Risparmi Foundation.

The Sinopi Museum is located in a building that was built in the mid-13th century. Construction was carried out at the will of Pope Alexander IV to consolidate reconciliation between the Holy See and Pisa. As a result, the building was used as a refuge for pilgrims.

The building was part of a hospital until 1969. After this, repairs were carried out. Now the room is used for a museum where you can see medieval paintings.

Location: Piazza del Duomo.

Lanfreducci Palace is one of the most interesting buildings of the 18th century in Pisa. The palace complex was designed by the architect Cosimo Pugliani from Florence. At the same time, construction activities started successfully on the orders of Francesco Landucci, Knight of Malta.

The marble facade was created taking into account the principles of the Renaissance:

• Three floors.
• Five windows.
• The words Alla Giornata can be read on the crossbar of the doorway.
• Above is a balcony with a French window decorated with the family crest.

This style of the palace can be appreciated even in the 21st century.

Pisa is small, but interesting city in Italy, which deserves special attention from tourists.

• Pisa is known to the world thanks to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Tourists who think the tower is the only attraction here will miss out on the rest of the architectural and artistic wonders of this beautiful city.
• The half-hour walk from Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles) to the train station flows through pedestrian street with many attractions, shops and restaurants. The best way to get to know Pisa - take a walk along the streets, since the center is very small.
• The city comes alive with students who organize parties, shows and cultural events. They fill the main street of the city at night. The University of Pisa has 60,000 students, when the total population of the city is about 100,000. You'll feel the student spirit as soon as you leave the touristy Campo dei Miracoli.

• Pisa is a quiet city, you don't have to worry about your safety (except in some places at night, for example the area around the station). Regardless, you should take the obvious precautions (if you're staying in a very cheap hotel, keep valuables with you) and beware of pickpockets in tourist areas.
• You can book a hotel in Pisa at, and you can check if there is a more attractive price somewhere, at. Some travelers prefer to rent private apartments - such offers can be viewed. If you are looking for a package tour from Russia to Pisa - take a look

How to get there

By plane

Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport

Main airport Tuscany with several airlines making hundreds of departures per day, both domestic and international. Countless companies offer charter flights from several European and other destinations. Flying to Pisa is really easy and convenient: the most well-known and inexpensive airlines serve flights to Pisa. You can choose the best option. The airport is located close to the city center - in just a few minutes you can reach the center by bus, train or taxi. The airport can also be easily reached on foot, which takes about twenty minutes.

Don't expect the airport to be open 24 hours a day. Many small airports in Europe operate on a specific schedule.

How to get to the city?

You can buy bus tickets at the information desk in the arrivals hall. The bus (The Red Line or LAM Rosso to Jacobo) runs every 10-15 minutes. The bus goes to Piazza dei Miracoli and to the central station. Since the ticket machine “speaks” only Italian, it is better to buy tickets at the information desk. Each ticket costs €1.20, but if you buy them from the bus driver it will cost you €2.00. You can buy a ticket in all shops and bookstores. An automated road is currently being built, along which it will be possible to travel between the airport and the station.

Bus station

The bus station is located opposite the airport. Once you are in the city, you can easily locate all the main attractions, which are located within walking distance. If you are catching a bus from the train station, then you will need to cross the road in front of the station and go to the right.

If you prefer more convenient way to travel, a taxi will cost you about €6-8. Otherwise, as an alternative, you can pre-book transport to the airport. This service is especially convenient for large groups.

“Easy Private Taxi” will provide transport to the city for €36 Mercedes E class, €43 minivan.

123 Transfers offers transport to the city for €37.50 sedan (3 people), €50 minivan (8 people).

By car with a companion

This is one of the most convenient ways to get to Pisa. You can spread the costs and make travel cheaper. You can find a car that will take you to Pisa on the website: Passaggio.it

By train

In Pisa there are daily trains to Florence and Lucca (usually every hour), you can also get there by bus, there is an international airport.

Pisa Centrale is the main station in Pisa. Trains from Rome to Genova stop at Pisa Centrale. If you plan to travel only within Pisa, then this is also convenient. Pisa Centrale has luggage storage facilities available from six in the morning until nine in the evening. Storage of each bag costs three euros. If you are in the city just to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, you can go down to the Pisa S. Rossore station, which is closer to the tower. Be sure to check train schedules as not all trains may stop. Be that as it may, there are regional trains to Florence that run every hour at the forty-sixth minute (as on July 9, 2012).

Clue:

Pisa - the time is now

Hour difference:

Moscow 1

Kazan 1

Samara 2

Ekaterinburg 3

Novosibirsk 5

Vladivostok 8

When is the season? When is the best time to go

Pisa - weather by month

Clue:

Pisa - weather by month

Main attractions. What to see

Pisa is divided into four historical squares. There is more to see than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Several different routes are available.

Piazza dei Miracoli or Field of Miracles is located in the north of the center of Pisa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site represents various attractions of the city:

Other historical buildings include: the Church of San Rocco, the Priest's House, Palazzo Carovana and Palazzo dei Dodici.

Museo di San Matteo, Piazza San Matteo, 1, lungarno Mediceo, +39 50 541865. This is a fantastic museum of history and art, whose buildings are full of paintings. It is quite small, but one of the largest for Tuscan Renaissance painting, located in the premises of the monastery of San Matteo. This treasure is overlooked by many tourists.

Lungarno Mediceo and Lungarno Pacinotti on the north side of the Arno River, Lungarno Galilei and Lungarno Gambacorti on south side: These coastal streets give Pisa a completely unique character, especially in the evening when the lights reflect on the waters of the Arno. Along Lungarni there are interesting places:

Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza XX Settembre, two opposite city squares, at the ends of the Ponte di Mezzo (middle bridge). Considered the center of the city. From Piazza Garibaldi begins Borgo Stretto, an ancient street with many shops that, together with Corso Italia, create a pedestrian area (interrupted only by a bridge) that is the city center. In Piazza XX Settembre you can find the Logge dei Banchi, a textile market building from 1600 and city ​​hall at Palazzo del Comune.

Santo Sepolcro, on Lungarno Galilei, is an octagonal Romanesque church with a conical spire, built by Diotisalvi.

Ussero Café, founded in 1775, lungarno Pacinotti 27. Monument to Italian culture in the 1400th Palazzo Agostini, on Lungarno. In 1839, the first meeting of the Congress of Italian Scientists took place here.

Santa Maria della Spina. A very small Gothic church on Lungarno Gambacorti, built in 1230 to house the thorn from the crown of Jesus. This church is considered one of the most prominent representatives of Gothic art. Due to its small size, the church was moved a little higher from the Arno River in 1800 to protect it from flooding.

Giardino Scotto, on Lungarno Fibonacci at the end of Lungarno Galilei. A former fortress converted into a public park, open in the summer for film screenings under open air, concerts and other events.

La Cittadella (The Citadel). A fortress at the end of Lungarno Simonelli, built to guard the entrance to the Arno River, as well as a former shipyard from the Middle Ages.

University Botanical Garden, via Luca Ghini 5. The first botanical garden in Europe, created by order of Cosimo de' Medici in 1544. The garden is open on weekday mornings, admission is free.

Beautiful Romanesque churches - San Paolo a Ripa d'Arno, San Michele in Borgo, San Paolo with a gallery of sculptures inside.

Tuttomondo, fresco by Keith Haring. Keith Haring visited Pisa and fell in love with the city, so he decided to paint a magnificent fresco as a gift. Although it is incredibly large, it is easy to miss, so be careful. It is located between Giuseppe Mazzini and Massimo D'Azeglio, near Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II.

Food. What to try

Make it a rule not to eat near the Leaning Tower of Pisa, as the prices are high and the quality is low. Instead, head to the central area (5-10 minutes walk from Piazza dei Miracoli). You will find very good and cheap restaurants there. For example, there are nice cafeterias with respectable prices in the small but busy vegetable market, Piazza delle Vettovaglie. Also Via San Martino, not far from south coast There are a couple of places along the river with good food and low prices.

It is known that not far from the Leaning Tower of Pisa, in via Roma, there is a good Indian restaurant with a wonderful atmosphere and very good, although not always cheap, dishes. In Piazza dei Miracoli there is a good restaurant-pizzeria Kinzica. In any case, don't miss Salza, in Borgo Stretto, with delicious chocolates, sweets and pastries of all kinds. Don't sit inside, if only because you'll end up paying €10 for two coffees.

Finally, there is a good pizzeria next to the Turbaza, on the road leading to Leclerc.

Safety. What to watch out for

Don't buy sunglasses, umbrellas or other trinkets from illegal sellers. Stay away from fake luxury items. Upon arrival in Pisa, tourists are surrounded by merchants. Some may be pushy or overtly aggressive. Even a simple “No, thank you” can attract unwanted attention. It's better to just ignore them. Don't be afraid to seem rude.

But low prices tempting, especially when you're on a budget when traveling, please remember that lately the Italian police have been fining tourists for purchasing from illegal traders. These fines can be very steep (up to €1000). Opposite the Tower there are several merchants who are allowed to sell various items. Remember to be responsible and buy from them. Legal traders are located at stalls along the main road.

Things to do

On June 16, the Luminaria festival takes place in Pisa, in honor of the patron saint (San Ranieri). At sunset, all the lights along the Arno go out and over 10,000 candles are lit. Various actions take place on the streets, and the night ends with big fireworks.

Another summer attraction is Gioco del Ponte (Bridge Game). Held every year on the last Sunday of June, when the two sides (Tramontana and Mezzogiorno, geographically separated by the Arno River) take part in a historical procession in the company of 709 extras, and then compete with each other in physical strength. Teams of twenty try to conquer the Ponte di Mezzo (the main bridge in Pisa) by pushing a cart off the bridge to force the opposing team to leave the bridge.

Mineral springs

Casciana Terme: The thermal water in Casciana Terme has been used since ancient times. IN last years its application has been expanded to modern methods of rehabilitation and treatment of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, treatment of digestive functions.

San Giuliano Terme: water with a positive effect and calcium-magnesium water with sulfates, rich in vital healing elements, gushing at the foot of Mount San Giuliano from the source where various springs originate, collected in two groups and called “Eastern Baths” (temperature 40° C) and "Western Baths" (temperature 38° C).

Education

Pisa School of Advanced Study of St. Anna or Scuola Superiore Sant "Anna. Public university of applied sciences, formed from the Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa (School of Higher Learning in Italy i.e. Scuola Superiore Universitaria).

Located: Scuola Superiore Sant "Anna, P.zza Martiri della Libertà, 33 - 56127 - Pisa ()

Scuola Normale or Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa was founded in 1810 by order of Napoleon, as a branch of the Parisian École Normale Supérieure. Recognized " national university" in 1862, a year after the reunification of Italy and was called during this period the "Normal School of the Italian Kingdom". (School of Higher Education in Italy i.e. Scuola Superiore Universitaria).

Location: Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa - Piazza dei Cavalieri, 7 - 56126 Pisa ()

The University of Pisa or Università di Pisa is one of the oldest universities in Italy. Officially founded on September 3, 1343 by decree of Pope Clement VI, although lectures on law had been held in Pisa since the eleventh century. The University houses the oldest botanical garden in Europe, i.e. Orto botanico di Pisa, founded in 1544.

Located: Università di Pisa - Lungarno Pacinotti, 43 - 56126 Pisa ().

Sights of Pisa - Pisa what to see? Hotels, all about Pisa, photos of Pisa, how to get to the city of Pisa?

City of Pisa (Pisa), located in the north, was one of the largest Italian cities, a powerful maritime power, an eternal rival, and. Today the city no longer has access to the sea - but can still be easily reached due to the fact that Pisa is only a few kilometers from the Tyrrhenian coast - but its fame continues to resound throughout the world. Of course, we are talking about the famous tower, tilted from its vertical axis. But the leaning tower is just one of many attractions in this city of Greek origin. Being in the shadow for centuries, which is located at a distance of about seventy kilometers, it is safe to say that Pisa can “give a head start” to the capital of Tuscany, because in this city so many magnificent churches, towers, historical buildings and beautiful residences that during walking tour walking through the streets of Pisa will simply take your breath away.

Most of the tourist beauty is concentrated in Piazza del Duomo, where the Leaning Tower of Pisa stands. Here you will also see a surprising number of souvenir shops offering tourists miniature replicas of the tower in all different aspects (even towers that glow in the dark). The Leaning Tower of Pisa owes its worldwide fame to Galileo Galilei: legend says that the philosopher, in order to demonstrate the law of falling bodies, climbed this tower and threw objects made of various materials from above.

Everyone thinks that the Tower of Pisa is a completely unique phenomenon. However, there are still many historical buildings in the city, leaning like the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The fact is that the Pisa soil consists of clay and sand, which over time leads to displacements in the structure of the foundation of ancient buildings. Thus, the bell tower of the Church of San Nicola has a slope of 2.5 degrees, and the bell tower of the Church of San Michele Scalzi has the same slope as the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

How to get to Pisa?

The famous city of Pisa is easily accessible by car and bus via the motorway, by ship from the nearby port of Livorno, by train and of course by air thanks to Galileo Galilei International Airport.

By plane

The international airport, which is located in Pisa, is named after the famous physicist Galileo Galilei. It is located just 5 minutes by bus, train or car from the city center. It is a major international airport that serves international and national airlines, tourists fly here to then get to various cities in the Tuscany region (for example, Siena). To easily book tickets to Pisa, visit the large air ticket search engine Aviasales.ru, where in a matter of minutes you can select the desired flight and pay for the trip.

Landing at Pisa airport, you can easily reach the city center. You can take the train connecting the airport arrivals terminal to Pisa train station.

In addition, there is a bus service from the airport every 10 minutes (line LAM Rossa) that connects the airport with the Central Station and the city center of Pisa. The bus station is located outside the airport - on the arrival side. By the way, there is a bus from Pisa airport to Florence railway station.

The most convenient way to get to Pisa from the airport is to book an airport transfer to Pisa. This solution can be very beneficial for a group of tourists of 3-4 people. To get around the city, you can order a taxi in Pisa with a Russian-speaking driver. You can select and order a transfer through convenient service Kiwitaxi: you just need to choose where you are from and where you need to go. At the specified time, in the specified place, your personal driver will be waiting for you with a sign with your name.

By train

Pisa Central Station (Pisa Centrale) is one of the main transport hubs at the regional and national level. From here it is easy to reach Florence and other Italian cities.

The station is located on the southern edge of the historic city center, approximately 1.5 km from the airport and two hundred meters from the Piazza Sant'Antonio suburban bus station.

Outside the train terminal you will find a taxi rank and bus stops that take you directly to Piazza dei Miracoli and international airport Galileo Galilei. There is a storage room inside the station.

For information on train departure and arrival times, visit www.ferroviedellostato.it.

By car

If you rented a car (you can book a car on the Rentalcars website, like the portal “Italy in Russian” already), then you can get to Pisa as follows:

From Florence- take the Firenze-Mare A11 motorway, exit at Pisa Nord, then take the SS1 Aurelia towards Pisa Sud (approx. 6 km); alternatively via Florence-Pisa-Livorno (FI-PI-LI), exit Pisa Nord-Est (to Cisanello Hospital), Pisa Airport, Pisa Aurelia (Leaning Tower of Pisa).

From Rome, Bologna- take the A1 motorway to Florence, then take the A11, exit Pisa Nord, then take the SS1 Aurelia towards Pisa Sud (approx. 6 km). Alternatively, from Rome you can take the A12-E80 to Civitavecchia, then the E80-SS1 Aurelia to Rosignano Maritime and then the A12-E80 to Pisa (Pisa Centro).

From Genoa- take the A12 Genoa-Rosignano motorway, exit Pisa Nord, then take the SS1 Aurelia towards Pisa Sud (approx. 6 km).

Access to the historic center of Pisa by car is generally prohibited.

By bus

1) From Florence airport

The center of Pisa can be reached directly from Florence airport and train station. The service is provided by Terravision.

2) Suburban buses

Pisa is served by the transport company CPT, which covers most provinces, Lazzi buses that connect Pisa with Lucca and Viareggio, as well as the Vaibus company that connects Pisa with Lucca and Pietrasanta.

3) Intercity buses

Pisa is served by intercity bus lines that connect it to various Italian regions, mainly in the south-central part:

1. Bus lines Simet - Calabria (arrival Via Pietrasantina).
2. Sena bus lines - Marche, Abruzzo, Apulia, Calabria, Campania, Sicily (arrival Via Pietrasantina).
3. Bus lines Moretti - Basilicata.
4. Bus lines Marozzi - Basilicata and Puglia.

View of the Apuan Alps from the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Photo by Thinkstock

Where to stay in Pisa?

Pisa is a relatively small city, whose population does not even reach 100,000 people, but the places for recreation and stay of tourists are numerous and can satisfy every visitor to the city: those who want to stay in the comfort and luxury of five-star hotels, and those who want to spend less , saving for something fun.
If your budget is limited, choose three-star hotels, of which there are many in the city, especially in the historical center.

If you think where to stay in Pisa, then our portal “Italy in Russian” advises you to visit the website Booking.com, where you can view numerous offers from the most popular hotels in the city. Below we provide short list the best, according to guest reviews, hotels in Pisa.

4 star hotels

Address: Via Giuseppe Mazzini 57, Pisa
Visitor rating: 8.4 out of 10

Located in the historic center of Pisa, a 5-minute walk from the train station, the elegant Hotel Bologna offers cozy rooms with private facilities (free Wi-Fi, minibar, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, large windows, wooden floors and heating ) and transfer to the airport.

Breakfast at the Bologna Hotel is served as a buffet of cold fruits meat dishes and fresh pastries, which can be enjoyed on the terrace in the hotel courtyard. The bar offers free tastings of traditional Tuscan products.

Campo dei Miracoli and the Leaning Tower of Pisa are a 12-minute walk from the hotel, while the motorway connecting Pisa with Florence and Livorno is 3 km away.

Room price - from 50 euros/day.

Address: Via Filippo Mazzei 2 - Angolo S.Biagio, Pisa
Visitor rating: 8.3 out of 10

The modern Hotel San Ranieri is located 10 minutes' drive from Pisa airport and 300 meters from Cisanello, this stylish hotel boasts a large garden and free services - Wi-Fi and car parking.

Rooms at the San Ranieri Hotel are equipped with a TV with Mediaset Premium channels, a minibar, air conditioning and a private bathroom. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building.

The hotel offers a buffet breakfast, and in the restaurant with a glass roof you can enjoy Tuscan cuisine, served indoors, on outdoors or in your room. Hotel San Ranieri is easily accessible from the A12 motorway and is a 10-minute drive from Pisa Train Station and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Room price - from 72 euros/day.

3 star hotels

Address: Via Alessandro Della Spina 2 / 7 / 9, Pisa
Visitor rating: 8.6 out of 10

Hotel Alessandro Della Spina is just a 5-minute walk from Pisa Central Station and a 10-minute walk from the city centre. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, satellite TV and a private bathroom with bath or shower. There is free Wi-Fi in the hotel lobby. Breakfast at the Alessandro Della Spina Hotel includes homemade bread and croissants (included in the room rate).

Room price - from 99 euros/day.

Address: Via Risorgimento 42, Pisa
Visitor rating: 8 out of 10

Hotel Athena is just 300 meters from the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa; There is a large garden on site.

Rooms at Hotel Athena are air conditioned and come with an LCD TV with satellite channels, a mini fridge and a private bathroom. You will find free Wi-Fi in the lobby.

The hotel's large garden is ideal place to relax in the fresh air, drink coffee or cocktail. The hotel offers free parking (spaces are limited).

Room price - from 67 euros/day.

Sights of Pisa

Square of Miracles (Piazza dei Miracoli)

The main religious monuments of the city are collected here: in addition to the leaning tower itself - the bell tower, on the wide Square of Miracles there is a Cathedral (therefore another name for the square is Cathedral), a Baptistery and an ancient cemetery.

In 1155, the Square of Miracles was surrounded by walls, and a century later a cemetery (in its northern part) and a new hospital (in its southern part) appeared here. Familiar to us modern look Square of Miracles acquired approximately .

You can get to Miracle Square from the station by bus No. 3.

Square of Miracles. Photo by Thinkstock

Leaning Tower (Torre pendente)

This is a world-famous symbol not only of Pisa itself, but also of the entire tourist industry. Construction of the bell tower began in 1173, but due to subsidence of the soil and the resulting tilt after the completion of the third floor, the construction of the tower was suspended until 1275, when it was finally decided to complete its construction. But the construction of the belfry itself ended only in the second half of the 14th century. The height of the tower is 56.7 meters. Pisa-born Galileo Galilei used the tilt of the tower for his experiments on free-falling bodies.

Over the past eight centuries, the tower has deviated from its axis by approximately two meters 60 cm. A very slow but constant increase in inclination continued, but scientists continued to make attempts to stop this process and secure the tower - using, for example, the installation of steel cables in 1996, or removing part of the soil in the northern part of its foundation. Currently, the tilt angle of the tower is 3° 54".

Falling tower. Photo by Thinkstock

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is open to the public all days from 9.00 to 19.00 (from March to October), from 8.30 to 20.30 (from April to September) and from 9.30 to 17.00 (from November to February). From June 14 to September 15, there are also night visits to the tower from 20.30 to 23.00. The cost of climbing to the top, where there are 294 steps, is 15 euros.

Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta)

The Cathedral of Pisa, dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was begun in 1064 by the architect Busceto, who added elements of Norman, Byzantine, early Christian and even Arabic architecture to the traditional Romanesque style, trying with this original mixture to emphasize the scale of trade relations and the greatness of the Pisa Maritime Republic, and at the same time trying to surpass the “competitors” the Venetians, who built St. Mark’s Cathedral during the same period.

The Pisa Cathedral was completed in the 12th century by the architect Rainaldo, who designed its magnificent façade. The modern appearance of the cathedral is the result of numerous restorations carried out in different time. Its interior, built in the shape of a Latin cross, is a real museum in terms of the number of works of art collected here. In the 19th century, however, some of the cathedral's sculptures were replaced by copies, and the originals were moved to the cathedral museum.

The facade of the Pisa Cathedral and its interior decoration. Photo by Thinkstock

You can visit the Pisa Cathedral: in winter period from 10.00 to 12.45 and from 15.00 to 16.45 (on weekdays) and from 15.00 to 16.45 holidays. In spring and autumn the cathedral is open from 9.00 to 17.40, in summer - from 8.00 to 19.40. Entry cost is 2 euros.

Baptistery

The Baptistery (baptistery), dedicated to St. John the Baptist, is another component of the monumental complex Square of Miracles.

Its construction began in the second half of the 12th century by the architect Diotisalvi; it was built intermittently over almost two centuries. Many of the sculptures decorating the facade, as well as the pulpit, depicting scenes from the life of Christ, were created by Nicola Pisano.

Ambon Baptistery. Photo arte.it

Devoid of any special decoration in its interior, the baptistery has exceptional acoustics and is the largest in Italy - its circumference is 107.24 m.

Baptistery . F from Thinkstock

The Baptistery is open to the public every day except January 1 and December 25, in winter - from 9.00 to 16.40, in spring and autumn - from 9.00 to 17.40, in summer - from 8.00 to 19.40. The cost of a full ticket is 5 euros, a reduced ticket is 2 euros.

Monumental Cemetery (Camposanto monumentale)

In the northern part of the Square of Miracles there is a Monumental Cemetery. The land itself, on which there are numerous tombstones of prominent residents of Pisa, is considered holy, brought by the crusaders from Mount Golgotha. The decorative elements include works of art from the Etruscan, Roman and medieval periods. The cemetery was founded in 1277, and its construction was completed at the end of the 16th century. Restoration of the frescoes damaged by the bombing of the Second World War is still ongoing.

Monumental cemetery. Photo by Thinkstock

The Camposanto cemetery is open to the public on all days except January 1 and December 25, in winter from 9.00 to 16.40, in spring and autumn from 9.00 to 17.40, in summer from 8.00 to 19.40. The cost of a full ticket is 5 euros, a reduced ticket is 2 euros.

Piazza dei Cavalieri

Piazza dei Cavalieri or the Square of the Knights is one of the most famous squares in all of Pisa due to its unforgettable combination of antiquity and modernity. Some of the most important historical buildings of Pisa are located here, such as the Palazzo dell'Orologio, built on the site where the Torre Muda once stood, scary place, where in 1288 Count Ugolino and his sons (whose story is told in Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy) were starved to death; the Palazzo dei Cavalieri, designed by Vasari, and the church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri. Here are also buildings that “welcome” the future: for example, the Scuola Normale Superiore, one of the most important universities in all of Italy, whose physics department is one of the most popular and prestigious on the Italian peninsula.

Piazza dei Cavalieri. Photo by Thinkstock

Pisa Cathedral Museum of Art (Museo dell'Opera del Duomo)

Located in the former monastery of Capuchin monks, the museum preserves the history of the monuments of the Square of Miracles. Here are outstanding works by such masters as Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, Tino da Camaino, as well as the Treasure of the Cathedral, wood inlays, chorales decorated with miniatures, church utensils and other exhibits. The museum is located next to the Leaning Tower.

Museum of Ancient Ships (Museo delle navi antiche)

This is an archaeological museum in the process of its formation. In December 1998, during the construction of a railway junction, the remains of ancient ships were discovered, as well as the city port, preserved in excellent condition. Soon they were put on public display, and in addition to the exhibits already on display, everyone can follow the progress of the restoration work.

Museum exhibit. Photo: iltirreno.gelocal.it

The museum is open to visitors every Friday and Saturday from 10.00 to 12.00 and from 14.30 to 15.30. Groups can book a visit to the museum on other days. You can get to the museum on foot from the Square of Miracles.

Embankments of the Arno River (Lungarni)

Pisa is also famous for its picturesque embankments. This is a meeting place for both local youth and tourists. The banks of the Arno River are decorated with numerous palaces, bridges, towers and churches, the most famous of which are the Medici Palace, the Toscanelli Palace, and the Church of St. Matthew. There are also numerous restaurants and bars here. Every year on June 16, the day of the city's patron saint, Saint Ranieri, the banks of the Arno River, as well as all the buildings located on the embankments, are decorated with numerous lights, the play of which leaves an unforgettable impression.

Embankment of the Arno River. Photo by Thinkstock

Church of St. Catherine (Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria)

Built in the second half of the 13th century for the Dominican Order, the church has a beautiful facade of white and gray marble, with a covered gallery in the Gothic style and a large central round window. The interior of the church was rebuilt in the second half of the 17th century after a fire damaged it, and houses frescoes, paintings and sculptures by famous masters of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The Church of St. Catherine is located on the Square of Martyrs for Freedom.

Church of St. Catherine. Photo it.wikipedia.org

Church of Santa Maria della Spina

This small Gothic-style church got its name (spina - thorn) because, according to legend, it was here that one of the thorns from the crown of thorns of Jesus Christ was kept from 1333 until the 19th century, until the relic was transferred to the Church of St. Chiara. Compared to the rich exterior, the interior of the church seems quite modest. However, here you can see such masterpieces of Gothic sculpture as the Madonna della Rosa (Andrea and Nino Pisano), as well as the treasury created in 1534 by the sculpture Staggio Staggi, which housed the holy relic.

Church of Santa Maria della Spina. Photo by Thinkstock

The church is located on the Arno embankment, near the Solferino bridge, and is open to the public every day except Monday.

Church of St. Paul at the cliff (Chiesa di San Paolo a ripa d'Arno)

Address: P.zza San Paolo a ripa d'Arno, 21

This church, located along the Arno Promenade, in south direction, was presumably built in the ninth century, but was consecrated by Eugene III only in 1148.

The architecture of the church is impressive: it is easy to recognize the style that characterizes many of the facades of church buildings in Pisa - “blind” passages with pointed arches, characteristic geometric elements, three gates and the upper part of the facade, designed in the style of the Pisa Cathedral.

It is likely that the church previously resembled even more the vaults of the Pisa Duomo, given that the building underwent several façade reconstructions after World War II.

Church of San Paolo a Ripa d'Arno. Photo: Thinkstock

Borgo Stretto

This is the most famous area in Pisa. It is located next to the medieval arches of the Lungarno promenade. Here you can admire two other leaning towers of Pisa: the one belonging to the Church of San Nicola (2.5 degrees of inclination) and the one located at the Church of San Michele Scalzi (5 degrees of inclination). Among the churches in the area, it is worth visiting the Romanesque architectural gem, San Michele in Borgo.

Church of San Michele in Borgo

Address: Borgo Stretto, 10

The church and adjacent monastery, which belonged to the Benedictine order of monks, were built around 1016 and rebuilt several times after the bombing of World War II.

The facade of the church is in the traditional Pisan Romanesque style with Gothic influences: the lower part dates back to the thirteenth century, while the upper loggias were created from the fourteenth century.

The monumental three-nave interior preserves the crucifix by Nino Pisano (14th century), paintings by Matteo Rosselli ( Immaculate Conception), Baccio Lomi (Madonna and Child with Saints), Aurelio Lomi (Virtue), Giuseppe Melani (Nativity) and the remains of frescoes from the thirteenth and eighteenth centuries.

Fragments of the church pulpit, which is attributed to the master Andrea Pisano, are contained in the National Museum of San Matteo.

Church of San Michele in Borgo. Photo by Thinkstock

St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro Apostolo)

Address: San Piero a Grado

St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most important churches in all of Pisa. The basilica was proclaimed. The church is a unique example of ecclesiastical architecture typical of Pisa, predating the construction of the Pisa Cathedral. The basilica was built near the disappeared river port called Grado, where, according to legend, Saint Peter descended to earth in the year 44.

Excavations uncovered the foundations of an early Christian church built on the ruins of Roman civil buildings, later replaced by a larger church in the 8th-9th centuries. The present building, which was built in the tenth century and altered at the end of the eleventh, has a three-nave structure with the unusual presence of two apses, from which the western one was built, perhaps after the destruction in a flood of the facade and the entrance door on the north side.

The church is lined with unique ceramic fragments (copies; the originals are in the National Museum of San Matteo) from the Islamic world, Mallorca and Sicily, laid out in complex geometric shapes (X-XII centuries).

The impressive 12th-century bell tower was destroyed on July 22, 1944 by soldiers of the retreating Wehrmacht and only its base was then rebuilt. Inside the basilica there are three bells taken from the ruins of the bell tower; The bell tower is currently under reconstruction.

Also inside you can see the place where St. Peter preached for the first time.

St. Peter's Basilica. Photo by Thinkstock

On the walls of the nave you can see a huge cycle of frescoes, recently restored, commissioned by the Gaetani family for the anniversary of Pope Boniface VIII (Benedetto Caetani).

It also houses ancient portraits of popes, ranging from St. Peter to John XVII (1003): this series of portraits is unique today after the catastrophic fire in 1823 that almost completely destroyed the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls in Rome, where the famous series of portraits of Popes was located.

Address: Via Luca Ghini, 13

Visiting: Mon-Fri from 8.30 to 17.30; Saturday 8.30-13.

Tickets: €2.50 full; 1.5 euro discount

Botanical Garden of the University of Pisa. Photo: Thinkstock

The Botanical Garden of the University of Pisa is one of the oldest botanical gardens on the planet. It arose under the name Giardino dell "Arzinale in 1544, thanks to the efforts of Luca Ghini and the finances of Duke Cosimo I de' Medici. The botanical garden competes with the botanical garden for the title of the oldest in the world. The garden changed its location several times until 1591, when it was finally settled at this address. botanical garden Pisa has over 550 species to see rare plants from all over the world.

Royal Palace and National Museum

The Royal Palace was built in 1583 according to the design of Bernardo Buontalenti for Francesco I de' Medici near the church and monastery of St. Matthew.

Currently, there is a National Museum here, which stores numerous evidence of residence in the palace of noble Tuscan families: works of artists of the 4th century, sculptures of the 13th-15th centuries, furniture, tapestries, ancient weapons, a large collection of medieval ceramics.

National Museum of the Royal Palace. Photo by Thinkstock

The National Museum is located on the Arno River embankment, open from Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 14.30, on Saturday from 9.00 to 13.30. The cost of a full ticket is 6.50 euros, a reduced ticket is 1.50.

What to try in Pisa

Everyone knows that it is one of the most excellent on the planet, combining the seemingly incompatible - health benefits and unsurpassed taste. Going to the city of Pisa, you can fully enjoy this great tradition of the Tuscans - eating deliciously and a lot.

Cheeses and meats are the main products of this area. One of the most notable cheeses of the area is Pecorino del Parco di Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli, a semi-hard cheese with a sweet taste. Another delicious cheese treat is Pecorino Pisano, available in both “young” and aged versions.

Among the sausages, the most famous are the spicy salami Mallegato Pisano and the cured Pisa pork shoulder.

For starters, you should try the most popular dishes in Pisa - Pisa soup, San Michele white bean soup or frog soup. For those for whom frog legs do not inspire much confidence, the menus of local restaurants offer a delicious soup made from 13 types of seafood, cacciucco.

Meat lovers probably know that in Pisa, as in other cities, they make excellent IGP grilled or charcoal Chianina beef - simple and incredibly tasty! You can also try the traditional Tuscan dish, "trippa" - stuffed veal stomach with vegetables.

For dessert you will be offered a cake with pine nuts “torta coi bischeri”, flatbread “castagnaccio”, again with pine nuts and walnuts, or the famous almond cookies “ricciarelli”.

Pisa Restaurants

Here is a list of some restaurants and taverns, famous and very popular in Pisa, where you can enjoy a wonderful lunch or a hearty dinner.

Trattoria Il Campano

Address: Via D. Cavalca, 19

An ideal place to enjoy typical dishes of the Tuscan tradition. The establishment is located in the historical center of Pisa.

Ristorante Squisitia

Address: Via Filippo Mazzei, 2

Fresh ingredients, vegetarian options, gluten free and children's options are the key words in the menu of this restaurant located on Via San Biagio.

Osteria dei cavalieri

Address: Via San Frediano, 16

This is a restaurant that offers the best Tuscan cuisine in an original and creative way.

Bar Settimelli

Address: Borgo stretto, 34

This bar is one of the most famous bars in Pisa, opened in the thirties and still remains a meeting place local residents and tourists.

La Vecchia Cascina

Address: S. Biagio

On Via San Biagio, in the building of an old Tuscan farm, there is a restaurant that offers excellent pizza and Tuscan dishes.

Osteria I miei Sapori

Address: via della Faggiola 20

This establishment specializes in typical Tuscan recipes and is located in the historical center of Pisa.

Holidays in Pisa

In Pisa, ancient traditions are revered sacredly, organizing folk and historical holidays, some of which are more than 6 centuries old.

The inhabitants of Pisa consider the most important holiday Patron Saint's Day of San Ranieri, which is also called Luminara. The holiday is celebrated on June 17. On the evening before the day of the patron saint, San Ranieri, candles are lit on the facades of monuments, houses and cathedrals, along the Arno embankment and in squares, and, of course, candles are placed on the main attraction of Pisa, the Leaning Tower. The spectacle, I must say, is truly extraordinary. The next day, the historic boat race, the San Ranieri Regatta, takes place on the Arno, with the participation of four teams from the city's quarters, preceded by the transfer of the San Ranieri altar on a galleon from the ancient maritime republic of Pisa. A parade in historical costumes accompanied by medieval music takes place through the streets of Pisa. A festive fair runs all day along the Lungarni embankments.

Saint Ranieri's Day. Photo: flickr

Also in June, another important historical festival takes place in Pisa, which is called "Gioco del Ponte". The festival of the “game on the bridge” originated in Pisa back in the Middle Ages, when the Pisan knights, tired of military campaigns, “amused themselves” with battles on heavy clubs called “Mazza Scudo”. The “game” was played with the use of real tools and was not without injury to the participants, so it was officially banned in the 19th century. The ancient game was revived in the 20th century as a historical reconstruction, where dangerous battles were replaced by pulling carts and complemented by a costumed historical procession of participants along the Ponte di Mezzo bridge.

Gioco del Ponte. Photo: Thinkstock

In August, on the 6th, Pisa celebrates San Sisto day: folklore shows and celebrations are held in the church dedicated to the saint.

Another spectacular sight is Historical Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics(which takes place every four years, alternating in one of the four ancient maritime republics of Pisa, Amalfi, Genoa and Venice).

The city that all tourists rush to visit, primarily because of its famous “Leaning Tower,” is the city of Pisa. Pisa is a small Italian town in the Tuscany region with a population of about 100,000 people. Despite its small number, it boasts a rich and interesting chronicle of events, as well as world-famous buildings that are definitely worth seeing and places that are definitely worth visiting.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Arno river embankment

From that what to visit in Pisa, all tourists strive first to visit the famous “Leaning Tower”, which over the years has become a symbol of the city.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa (Torre pendente di Pisa) is a campanile (bell tower), about 60 meters high (57 m to be precise) located on the “Place of Miracles”. And it would be just a tower if it weren’t for its world-famous tilt, thanks to which it has been the center of public attention for many years. By the way, after its restoration (since 2001), the Leaning Tower of Pisa is open to the public. Climbing 294 steps will cost you the fear of collapsing along with the tower and 15 euros.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

But let’s not forget that the Leaning Tower of Pisa is only part of the ensemble of those beautiful buildings located on the “Piazza of Miracles” in Pisa. In general, the “Piazza dei Miracoli” (or Piazza dei Miracoli) is a famous example of medieval architecture in Italy, a huge square in the old part of the city, surrounded by a wall, which includes 3 more famous buildings, in addition to the Leaning Tower: the Pisa Cathedral Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta , Baptistery of San Giovanni and monumental cemetery Campo Santo.

Square of Miracles

Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistery of San Giovanni) - “baptistery”, built in honor of St. John, the largest religious landmark in Pisa, greatest creation Italy in the Romanesque-Gothic style. The Baptistery, like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, is located on the “Place of Miracles” and, since is located on soft soil, like its “neighbor” it has a slope, but it is almost invisible to the human eye. The Baptistery of San Giovanni is also famous for its frescoes, including works by Benozzo Gozzoli, and 2 works by an unknown author, one of which tells the story of the plague epidemic of 1348. But the bronze sculpture in honor of John the Baptist, in the central part of the font, also attracts the attention of foreigners.

Baptistery of San Giovanni

Baptistery of San Giovanni inside

Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta) -Cathedral Pisa, built in honor of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, part of the “Piazza dei Miracles” ensemble. Construction of the cathedral began in 1063 under the direction of the architect Busceto di Giovanni Giudice. But the Pisa Cathedral underwent many changes, for example, a fire in 1595, as a result of which a mosaic depicting Christ with the standing Virgin Mary and John the Evangelist, and a pulpit, a sculpture made by Giovanni Pisano, have reached us.

Pisa Cathedral

Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta

Campo Santo monumentale is a monumental cemetery and museum located in the northern part of the “Place of Miracles”. It is curious, but initially, this building was conceived as a church dedicated to the Holy Trinity, but during the construction of the structure the project underwent changes. Construction began in 1278 by the architect Giovanni di Simone and continued until 1464. It’s a pity, but you won’t be able to enjoy the beauty, those works of art that previously decorated the cemetery before World War II, since it was because of it that it suffered, only a few works and frescoes survived. But still, you will not regret if you see those remaining works of art.

The Campo Santo monumentale

It should be noted that the “Piazza of Miracles” in Pisa, with its ensemble of 4 buildings, was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List at the end of December 1986.

Piazza dei Miracoli

Also from that what to visit in Pisa, is the second largest square in the city, after the “Square of Miracles”, Piazza dei Cavalieri (Piazza Dei Cavalieri) is the famous “Square of the Knights”, located a few steps from the “Square of Miracles”. It was erected on the site of the former ancient forum and rebuilt by the architect Giorgio Visari. Previously, or rather in the Middle Ages, the square was the political center of the city, but it was Giorgio Visari who transformed it, surrounding it with palaces and churches such as the Palazzo della Carovana, the Palace of the Hours (Palazzo Orologio), the church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri and the church of Sant'Sixtus.

Knights Square

The first thing that attracts the attention of tourists in Piazza dei Cavalieri is the Palazzo dei Carovana (Palace of the Convoy), which once belonged to the knightly order of St. Stephen. The magnificent facade of the Palazzo dei Carovana is decorated with huge sgrafittos - drawings that imitate architectural decorative elements, as well as statues of Tuscan dukes. Opposite the palace, in the central part of the square, there is a majestic statue of Cosimo I de' Medici, owned by the sculptor Pietro Francavilla. At the moment, the palace is the seat of the city's Higher Normal School of Pisa, founded in 1810 by Napoleon.

Convoy Palace

Statue of Cosimo I de' Medici

At the corner of the square is the Palace of the Clocks (Palazzo Orologio). The palace has an irregular shape and is a polygon, thanks to Vasari's innovative decision to connect two residential towers: Gwalandi (right) and the Tower of Justice (left). Currently, the palace houses the Library of the Higher School.

Clock Palace

Particularly noteworthy is the miniature church of Sant'Sixtus (one of the best examples of early Romanesque architecture in Europe), as well as the church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri (Church of the Knightly Order of St. Stephen), founded in the 16th century, under the leadership of the same famous Vasari, with for the purpose of protection against pirate raids in the maritime space. Interior decoration The church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri is richly decorated with paintings from the 17th century, the ceiling is decorated with paintings by Tuscan masters. The central place of the façade is decorated with the massive coat of arms of the Medici and the coat of arms of the Order of St. Stephen. The Basilica stores many military trophies and banners of the knights of this order.

Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri

Church of Sant Sixtus

Talking about what to visit in Pisa, one cannot help but say about the Arno River embankment, which will make an indelible impression on you. Here you can enjoy the beauty of such unique buildings as the 15th century Agostini Palace, the 16th century Upezzingi Palace, the 18th century Church of Madonna dei Galetti and others.

Arno river embankment

Agostini Palace

Church of Madonna del Galetti

In general, the city of Pisa is rich in many majestic churches and small churches that are definitely worth visiting, for example, the pearl of the late Gothic church of Santa Maria della Spina, the entire embankment of which is decorated with precious jewelry made of marble lace, aedicules and spiers.

Church of Santa Maria della Spina

Or the Basilica of San Piero a Grado, on the left bank of the river. Arno, dating from the 11th century. In its western part you can see the remains of an early Christian temple.

Basilica of San Piero a Grado

Also, special attention should be paid to the University Palace, which is also called the Palace of Wisdom (Palazzo della Sapienz). It is one of the most prestigious not only in Italy, but throughout the world.

University Palace

From museums what to visit in Pisa, the most significant are: the Duomo Museum, the Sinopia Museum and the most famous in the world, the National Museum of San Matteo.

Exhibit from the Duomo Museum. Pisa

Museum of San Matteo

Exhibit National Museum San Matteo

Sinopia Museum

If you are hungry, do not rush to visit the restaurants in the area of ​​the Leaning Tower of Pisa first, because... as it is very expensive, and some will feed you tastelessly, according to many tourists after comparing with other cafes and restaurants.

You will have a good lunch at Osteria di Culegna, La Mescita, La Stanzina, Vineria di Piazza, with good choice wines and national cuisine, Via del Monte, where amazing focaccia and pizza.

Osteria di Culegna

Vineria di Piazza

But if you decide to go to restaurants or cafes on the Square of Miracles, then turn your attention to Salza on Borgo Stretto or pizzeria Kinzica.

As for where you can stay, Pisa offers a wide selection of hotels and inns, which are mostly 3-star. The most famous and frequently visited are:

Hotel Verdi, with 30 comfortable rooms. The prices for the rooms are reasonable: you will have to pay from 45 € per night.

Hotel Ariston will offer you 31 comfortable rooms, and the hotel also allows pets. A room per night will cost more than 60 €.

In Pisa you can also find a number of excellent 4 and 5 star hotels, including the 4 star My One Hotel Galilei, offering 153 comfortable rooms, each of which meets the high standards of a first-class hotel. A day will cost you over 70 €.

My One Hotel Galilei

You will not regret if you check into the Abitalia Tower Plaza hotel, which offers you 82 luxurious rooms that meet the standards of comfort, as well as the latest technology. A day in such a luxurious hotel will cost more than 120 €.

Pisa is a city in Italy with many interesting and fascinating attractions. People from almost all over the world flock to Pisa for these attractions. The city is very friendly and loves guests; tourists here feel cozy and comfortable like nowhere else.

Pisa has both luxurious expensive hotels and simple hostels, so Pisa is suitable for both rich and budget tourists. Finding accommodation will not be difficult.

In May 2017 I visited Pisa and will be broadcast on the Aviamania channel interesting videos about this city! At the time of publication of the article, they are not yet ready, so the article will be supplemented with video content and my useful comments)))

The city is relatively small: the population is about 100 thousand people.

By the way, it was in Pisa in 1564 that the well-known Galileo Galilei was born. Therefore, despite its small size, the city gave us a big man.

The climate of Pisa is quite suitable for any Russian: the temperature here in winter rarely drops below zero. The average temperature in winter is 7 degrees Celsius, and in summer – 21. It is best, of course, to visit Pisa in the summer months, then walking will be much more enjoyable, and you can enjoy all the delights of the city to the fullest.

The most remarkable places in the city are two squares: Piazza dei Cavalieri and Cathedral. The latter is more visited and crowded, although we also recommend visiting the first.

Traveling through the streets of the city is a lot of fun, so in addition to exploring the local attractions during the day, evening walks around Pisa are a great addition.

The town is not that big, but in order to really feel the atmosphere of the city, enjoy it, and understand it, we recommend exploring Pisa for at least 3 days.

The city of Pisa, attractions photos and descriptions of which we will consider in this article, has always been a favorite tourist city. But what if you come to Pisa for just one day? Read below.

Pisa what to see in 1 day

If your plans do not include staying in the city for a long time, and you will only stay in Pisa for a day, then you need to see at least the most striking sights.

To do this, we suggest heading to Cathedral Square, where the main attractions of the city are located. These include: the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Duomo, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, Campo Santo, as well as some museums. After the tour, you will learn more about the skill of Vasari, as well as other outstanding architects and sculptors who took an active part in the formation of the city's historical buildings.

But it should be noted that these are not all interesting places in the city. Pisa is a wonderful city where hiking bring a lot of pleasure and allow you to enjoy unusually beautiful view these places.

Therefore, if you managed to run through the main noteworthy places, do not rush to leave the city, spend more time exploring other areas. After spending time in the city, you will have unforgettable memories and indelible impressions.

We offer you a one-day itinerary for those who cannot stay in Pisa for a long time.

Below we will describe each of the attractions indicated on the map.

Pisa Cathedral

(Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta )

Once in Pisa, you simply must visit this wonderful place, which is the main attraction of the city. Construction work on the cathedral began in 1064. Thanks to the brilliant architect Busqueto, the building became an example for all buildings in the Pisan-Romanesque style.

Sensitive connoisseurs of history can also discern some presence of the Byzantine style in the cathedral - the mosaic interior.

The appearance on one side is simple - gray stone, white marble, decorated in some places with colored marble. But in general, when the picture is completely revealed before your eyes, you can appreciate this incredible beauty.

From a distance, the Duomo looks very rich and harmonious, the building glows with elegance and superiority. It is no less interesting to see it up close, carefully examining every component detail.

As we know from history, the main doors of the cathedral were destroyed by fire in 1595, but skilled craftsmen were able to make new powerful bronze gates that were in no way inferior to the original. However, they were still rarely used, entering through the Porta di San Ranieri, created by Boganno Pisano.

Here you can also see a copy of the famous statue of the Madonna and Child, as well as the Pisa Griffin, the original of which can be seen in the cathedral museum. The metal griffin is the most voluminous Muslim sculpture.

Once you go inside, you can continue to admire this great building. Particularly striking are the black and white marble patterns and the dome with unique frescoes made in it.

One interesting legend is associated with this cathedral, according to which Galileo created a theory about movement celestial bodies, watching the huge lamp of the cathedral. Unfortunately, it can no longer be observed on the territory of the cathedral, but if you wish, visit Campo Santo to get to know this marvel.

The son of the famous Nicola Pisano, Giovanni, who, in fact, is no less famous than his father, contributed to the decoration of the Duomo. Giovanni created a superb carved pulpit, which to this day is included in the list of priceless sculptures of the medieval period.

And this is only a small part of what you can see in the Duomo; you need to study this architectural masterpiece in more detail in person.

Monastery of Campo Santo

If you believe the legends, the place for the construction of the monastery was not chosen by chance, since it was here that Archbishop Ubaldo left a handful of holy soil from Golgotha.

The monastery is designed in typical Romanesque and gothic architecture style. Construction took about 2 hundred years, started by the architect Giovanni di Simone. And, as you know, his plans were to build not a memorial cemetery, but a church, but after Giovanni’s death the plans were changed.

Campo Santo is a rather massive structure, which has 43 blind arches and several gates. Most of the tombs are located under arcades. Also, several priceless relics were moved beyond the walls of the monastery: a fragment of the Virgin Mary’s clothing and a thorn from the Crown of Thorns. In addition to them, there are many other interesting and inquisitive historical values.

On the territory of Campo Santo there are three delightful chapels: Ammannati, Aulla, Dal Pozzo, the last two were created with a difference of 76 years (1518-1594), but the oldest is the Ammannati Chapel, which was built in 1360.

It is also interesting to look at the painted sarcophagi and extraordinary frescoes. Their appearance has been preserved thanks to restoration by experienced craftsmen. One interesting event is connected with the restoration work. When the frescoes were carefully removed from the walls, they noticed drawings on the bare surface that were depicted even before the creation of the frescoes.

Some restoration work continues to this day, since during the Second World War Campo Santo was badly damaged, especially the roof and some sculptures. However, this does not stop tourists from admiring the cathedral to their heart's content.

Pisa attractions, photos and descriptions of which we describe in this article, are famous throughout the world thanks to one very famous attraction. You probably already guessed that we are talking about the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Leaning Tower of Pisa Pisa)

People have known about this tower since school age; a special charm and popularity was given to it by its tilted state, in which the Leaning Tower of Pisa has been for many years.

Initially, when construction work began, the architects were aware of the unstable clay soil, but construction worldwide famous building didn't stop. In order to ensure maximum safety, it was decided to increase the period of laying the foundation, thereby allowing the soil to subside even before the construction of the tower.

Construction took about 2 centuries, and during this time people constantly fight to maintain the integrity of the structure, which in turn tilts even more, then reduces the angle of inclination. This is also due to the flow of groundwater that passes under the foundation.

At the moment, the difference between the opposite ends of the tower’s foundation is 2 meters, which would seem to be a critical mark, but thanks to the special structure, where the center of gravity is located above the foundation, the tower pleases everyone with its appearance to this day.

The seven-story building attracts tourists not only because of the sensational problem of falling, but also due to its elegant appearance, beautiful decorations and unique architectural design. Also inside the tower there are opening galleries, the halls of which are decorated with bas-reliefs and ornaments.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is undoubtedly one of the city's most important attractions. And as scientists assure, there is no need to worry about its fall for another 3 hundred years.

Pisa Baptistery (Battistero di San Giovanni)

The Baptistery is located on the same “Field of Miracles” next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. And how did attentive readers react now, but why then does this building not suffer from unstable soil? In fact, the Pisa Baptistery has a certain angle of inclination, but very small, less than 1 degree. So visually it’s not even noticeable, although what will happen in hundreds of years is still unknown.

Some travel lovers make their plans and routes in advance, basing them on photographs of the most striking sights of cities. So, judging by the photographic materials, this baptistery may not make any special impression, but the opinion changes radically when you see it “eye to eye.”

Construction work began in the middle of the 12th century and continued for several hundred years. The main goal was to replace the old baptistery. The competent architect Diotisalvi took on this work; in his mind, the form of the structure should have been different - he only managed to build the walls of San Giovanni, but due to his death, Nicola Pisano completed the work.

The new architect saw the continuation differently, and the result was a baptistery with pyramidal walls and a semicircular roof in a more modern Gothic style. The end result was a rather original building.

It is also necessary to note the excellent sculptures of the pulpit made by Pisano; it took him about 5 years to create them.

Pisa Italy attractions except the Field of Miracles

Piazza Palazzo della Carovanna

(Piazza dei Carovana)

The building is located on Piazza dei Cavalieri, which delights tourists with remarkable buildings. Therefore, if you are staying in Pisa for several days, be sure to visit this place.

As the building is also called, the “Palace of Knights” is not very remarkable in its forms and the architect’s design, both outside and inside. The most attractive element is the individual unusual painting on the façade of the walls. It is for this reason that most people come here to admire and take some quality pictures.

As you know, Vasari himself did the finishing, but the coloring that we now see appeared towards the end of the 19th century. A special luxury is the staircase, which has access on both sides.

Nowadays the Normal Higher City School is located inside the building. Before its opening, some restoration work was carried out, including a slight refurbishment of the main staircase and entrance.

Piazza dei Cavalieri

(Piazza dei Cavalieri)

The square is the second most important in the city; once upon a time, celebrations by all the people took place here, as well as meetings where the main problems of the residents were discussed.

It was on Piazza dei Cavalieri that the independence of Pisa was proclaimed in 1406. The main building on the square is the higher educational institution of the Normal School - Palazzo della Caravana.

Great changes occurred during the reign of Cosimo I de' Medici. Then, on his orders, Giorgio Vasari began architectural work, one of which is the design of the church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri. Inside it are Turkish flags that were captured during a naval battle.

If you look around, you can see many different buildings that give the square its originality and beauty. And although this is a relatively small area, it is very interesting to visit here, there is something to see.

Church of Santo Stefano dei Quaglieri (Chiesa) dei Cavalieri di Santo Stefano)

The church is distinguished by its construction style; it is not made in Gothic, but in the Renaissance style. The building takes part of its name from its purpose, since by order of Cosimo I de' Medici the church was intended for the knights of St. Stefan. The church was erected in place of the old one - San Sebastiano alle Fabbice Maggiori.

The type that is available in modern times, was transformed until 1859, during which time 8 architects managed to work on the church.

Of particular value inside the room are the various flags that were obtained in battles and numerous paintings.

Palazzo del Orologio ( Palazzo dell'Orologio)

The “Clock Palace” is located in Piazza dei Cavalieri, and attracts attention with its unusual shape - a half-open book. Today, the library of the Normal School is located inside.

But if you look into history, the building has gone through numerous reconstructions and restorations. In general, initially these were two different buildings that were connected by a common basement.

The clock can be seen at the top of the central part of the building (above the arch). If you raise your gaze a little higher, you can replace the small bell tower.

At first glance, you wouldn’t think that at some time this building was used for the starvation of one family, the head of which was accused of high treason. But his relatives also suffered punishment.

Church of Santa Maria della Spina Santa Maria della Spina)

In appearance, the church is small and seemingly unremarkable, but if you take a closer look at the building, you will notice that the facade is made of marble and looks quite beautiful. Particularly striking is the top of the building with many sculptures by Pisano and figured decoration.

It is worth going around the building from all sides; it is better to do this in a hurry, carefully examining each element. But if you are in a hurry to get inside quickly, you will be a little disappointed, since the interior design is nothing unusual - one large room with a modest ceiling decoration.

True, the sculpture located in the center of the room – the Madonna Rose – attracts the eye. If you look back, you can see a few more pretty interesting statues, but that's all.

Museum Ospedale Nuovo di Santo Spirito

(The Ospedale di Santo Spirito)

The building is located on the main square of the city – the Field of Miracles. And while tourists undoubtedly admire other buildings, they are at first perplexed by this, since it is immediately unclear what it is and what it is for.

In appearance, the building fits perfectly into the area: long, low, gloomy, dark. Now it houses a museum where visitors can learn a lot of new and interesting things about culture and world art. But previously this building was intended for the treatment of patients.

Hospital of St. Spirit was built instead of a small hospital in 1257. And it played a big role for poor and sick people, as well as for abandoned children.

At first, the building was even gloomier, but during the reign of Cosimo I de' Medici, by order of the Duke, a reconstruction was carried out, which allowed it to more or less blend into the surrounding environment of the square.

The hospital began to play the role of a museum at the end of the 20th century, when various frescoes and valuables damaged after the Great Patriotic War began to be stored in the premises.

We got acquainted with the city of Pisa, the sights of which were discussed in photos and descriptions in this article. When traveling around Europe, be sure to set aside at least 1 day to visit this beautiful city. Have a nice trip!