The Leaning Tower of Pisa, known as the Torre di Pisa in Italian, is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. As such, approximately 5 million tourists visit each year. The construction began on the tower in the 12th century and was originally planned as a bell tower. After standing upright for 5 years, the white marble structure began to lean after completion of the third story. The lean was inevitable with a foundation only 3 meters deep on soil comprised of clay, sand and shells. It was simply not strong enough to support the structure. The tower was completed in the 14th century and there have been multiple extensive attempts to fight the lean lasting well into the 20th century. The final attempt was completed in 2001 and since, the Leaning Tower of Pisa has remained stable.

While most visitors to Pisa come solely for the Tower, this city has so much more to offer. Whether you are visiting for a day or a weekend, read below for my recommendations on what to see in Pisa beyond the Leaning Tower.

Battistero di San Giovanni

The Baptistery of San Giovanni is a beautiful domed structure located in the Piazza dei Miracoli, very close to the Leaning Tower. Also constructed in the 12th century, the Baptistery was built to offer the sacrament of baptism. It is a tall building that reaches around 55 meters (180 feet) high and is the largest baptistery in Italy. A tour of the interior reveals a beautiful and simple design with a clear focus on the sacrament. Take the stairs to the top for an aerial view down into the baptistery and out at the impressive Pisa Cathedral.

Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta

The Pisa Cathedral, known as Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, was founded in the late 11th century. At the time, Pisa reached its most powerful point in history as a wealthy maritime city. As such, the exterior of the cathedral was a display of that wealth and was constructed with Arabic, Classical, Byzantine and Lombard-Emilian influences. The interior of the cathedral is equally breathtaking. Walk through the domed arches and marvel at the paintings adorning the walls that date back to the 16th & 17th century. One of the most famous features of the cathedral is the pulpit by Giovanni Pisano which is intricately carved with the story of the life of Christ.

Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Pisa

Architecture

Beyond the Piazza dei Maricoli, you will find architectural gems throughout the city of Pisa. I suggest wandering these historic streets as you take in the beauty found in even the simplest buildings. The Piazza dei Cavalieri (Knight’s Square) was, at one point, the political center of Pisa and is home to the impressive Palazzo della Carovana. The exterior of this palace was designed by the famous Giorgio Vasari and features zodiac signs along with allegorical figures. Another work of Vasari and a highlight of the Piazza dei Cavalieri is Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri, a church built in the 16th century.

Learn to Make Pasta with a Local

Your journey in Tuscany will not be complete without enjoying the best pasta in the world. There are numerous highly ranked restaurants in Pisa however, I suggest booking a cooking class with a local host to learn how to make authentic Italian pasta. I booked my experience through AirBNB but they are also offered on other platforms such as Viator and Get Your Guide. You will learn a skill you can bring home with you and have a fabulous meal with equally wonderful conversation. During my class, we made Ravioli di Brasato, Passatelli in Brodo and Tiramisu classico. It was, by far, one of the best meals I had in Italy and one of my favorite experiences.

Walk Along the Arno River

A simple pleasure of this historic city is to wander along the picturesque Arno River. Take in the views of the pastel-colored buildings that line the banks of the river. In warmer months, you can book a kayak tour and visit the Orto e Museo Botanico (Botanical Garden) which also sits on the river. Cross the Ponte di Mezzo for a beautiful midpoint view and a great spot for a photo.

Cross the Arno River for Culture & Shopping

On the other side of the Arno River and across the Ponte di Mezzo, you will find the beautiful structure of the Logge dei Banchi. The Logge dei Banchi was built in the early 17th century and today, hosts markets with local vendors year-round. In the same piazza and facing the river is Palazzo Pretorio. This historic building was the old city hall and now hosts the Civic Museum of Prado. From here I suggest you continue down the Corso Italia to enjoy a more cosmopolitan vibe. Along the Corso Italia, you’ll find excellent shopping with a variety of Italian goods, local restaurants and plenty of gelato.

Saluti!

What to See in Pisa Beyond the Tower