Pisa is one of Italy's most iconic tourist destinations. It's home to the famous leaning tower that has popped up on postcards and books for generations.
But while the iconic structure is certainly worth a visit, there are lots of other great things to see in Pisa that are often overlooked by travellers. From historic buildings to stunning artwork, we've put together the best places to visit in Pisa that'll have you wishing you had more time on your hands!
The Cathedral
The awe-inspiring Cathedral of Pisa, or Duomo di Pisa, is one of the most impressive examples of Pisan Romanesque architecture. Completed in 1092, it's a unique testament to the city's varied history and is a must-see for Catholic travelers.
Inside, visitors can admire a magnificent decagonal pulpit carved in white marble (1302-11; restored 1926) by Giovanni Pisano. A bronze door, commissioned by Bonanno Pisano, depicting biblical scenes also survives on the southern side.
The Baptistery
The Baptistery of Pisa is a Romanesque structure with Gothic elements. It was designed by Diotisalvi in 1152 and built during the early 12th century.
The baptistery is an important landmark in the city and a popular tourist attraction. It’s the largest baptistery in Italy and is dedicated to St. John the Baptist.
The interior features a hexagonal pulpit by Nicola Pisano and an ornate marble baptismal font by Guido Bigarelli. Visitors can climb to the upper gallery to get an unusual view of the city and try out its remarkable acoustics.
The Duomo
Pisa's grand cathedral is one of the most beautiful in Italy. You'll want to visit this iconic site to admire its soaring painted dome and lovely stained-glass windows by masters like Donatello.
The church's coffered ceiling, a favorite of Medici artists, is especially striking. It was decorated with gold leaf and painted in a palette of regal colors.
Tickets to the Duomo complex come in multiple levels and give you access to Brunelleschi's Dome, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistery, the Crypt of Santa Reparata and the Opera Museum. These tours are the best way to get the most out of your Duomo experience, and group sizes are kept small to ensure a smooth and informative tour!
The Camposanto
The Camposanto is a historic cemetery located north of the Cathedral Square in Pisa. It features a Gothic cloister and is known for its religious significance.
The cemetery is also home to 84 Roman sarcophagi. These were repurposed by the rich and are now housed in galleries in the cemetery.
The frescoes in the Camposanto are dated from around the 14th century. Some of the most famous include the Triumph of Death, Last Judgment and Stories of the Anchorites.
The Piazza dei Cavalieri
The Piazza dei Cavalieri is a beautiful and elegant square dotted with splendidly decorated buildings. It has long been the political heart of the city and is considered one of the best places to see in Pisa.
The main highlight of this square is the Palazzo dei Cavalieri, also known as the Palace of the Knights. Modernised by Giorgio Vasari, it’s a fine example of Renaissance architecture.
The Piazza dei Miracoli
The Piazza dei Miracoli is home to three of Pisa's most famous architectural sites. The cathedral, baptistery and tower all stand tall on lush green grass in a stunning open square.
The Baptistery, considered to be the largest baptistery in Italy, features a beautiful pulpit by Nicola Pisano. Carved images depict the Virgin Mary from birth to Jesus’ first bath.
The Duomo, the grandest building in the square, elicits sighs of awe as you walk through the beautiful mosaics and carved pulpit. You'll also see the Camposanto, a cemetery surrounded by a Gothic cloister with a selection of sarcophagi and fresco paintings.
The National Museum of Pisa
Housed in part of a medieval monastery on the banks of the River Arno, the National Museum of Pisa is a must-visit for art buffs. Here, you will find a priceless collection of paintings and sculptures by leading Tuscan artists of the 12-17th centuries.
You can also take a look at archaeological relics, ceramics and Islamic art. There is also a large collection of ancient coins and other items brought to Pisa by international maritime trade routes.
The Museo della Repubblica
The Museo della Repubblica is a great place to visit when you want to explore the history of the city. It features artefacts from the historic baptistery, cathedral and leaning tower of Pisa.
The museum is relatively small and focuses on the history of Pisa. Among its highlights are original sculptures from the cathedral, baptistery and Camposanto cemetery. It also has a collection of liturgical furnishings, images, vestments, vessels and reliquaries.
