GemmaPisa is famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, the one that seems to defy gravity and photography rules. But if you think Pisa is just about balancing your selfie with a tower, think again. From my own personal experience, there’s so much more to this Tuscan city than its famous tilt. Pisa has a charm that combines history, art, culture, and food, making it the kind of place that sneaks under your skin. If you’re ready to explore Pisa beyond the tourist clichés, here’s a guide to 14 things you truly need to see and do.
1. Piazza dei Miracoli: More Than Just the Tower
Even though you’re looking beyond the tower, you can’t skip the square entirely. Piazza dei Miracoli, or the Square of Miracles, is a stunning sight with its green lawns and monumental architecture. Beyond the tower, the square is home to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Baptistery. The Baptistery, with its unique acoustics, can make your clumsy singing sound angelic—at least for a few seconds. Climbing its stairs to admire the views is a delight in itself, and you get to see the tower from a fresh angle.
2. Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
If you’re a fan of history and art, this museum is a must. The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo houses artworks, sculptures, and artifacts that once decorated the cathedral. From my overall experience, wandering here gives you a deeper sense of Pisa’s medieval soul, beyond the obvious Instagram-worthy shots. You’ll see original pieces that reveal the painstaking work of centuries-old artisans.
3. Santa Maria della Spina
A tiny Gothic gem along the Arno River, Santa Maria della Spina often gets overlooked. Despite its small size, this church is intricately decorated and full of charm. Walking along the river to reach it, you’ll notice the reflections of the historic buildings in the water, making it a photographer’s dream. It’s one of those hidden treasures that makes you feel like a local discovering a secret.
4. Walk Along the Arno River
Speaking of the Arno, a leisurely walk along its banks is pure Pisa bliss. The river gives the city a romantic and calm vibe that contrasts with the crowded tower area. As you stroll, you’ll pass colorful buildings, bridges, and quaint cafes. Take your time to soak in the views, maybe stop for a gelato, and watch the city unfold at a pace slower than the selfie lines.
5. Palazzo della Carovana
This historic palace in Piazza dei Cavalieri is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Today, it houses the prestigious Scuola Normale Superiore, one of Italy’s top universities. The courtyard and facade are adorned with intricate sgraffito decorations that make you wonder how they managed such artistry without Instagram tutorials. From my overall experience, standing here gives you a sense of the grandeur Pisa once wielded in politics and education.
6. Botanical Garden of Pisa
Yes, Pisa has a botanical garden, and it’s worth your time. Known as Orto Botanico di Pisa, it’s one of the oldest university botanical gardens in Europe. Wander among exotic plants, centuries-old trees, and charming greenhouses. It’s peaceful, educational, and surprisingly refreshing if you’ve been battling touristic chaos. Take a moment to appreciate that nature, too, has a place in a city famous for architecture.
7. Explore Pisa’s Hidden Streets
Pisa’s charm isn’t only in its famous landmarks—it’s in the narrow alleys, quiet piazzas, and hidden courtyards. Wander without a map and see where your feet take you. Discover little cafes serving fresh pastries, artisan shops, and murals that tell stories of Pisa’s past. You’ll find that exploring aimlessly often rewards you with the most authentic experiences.
8. Museo Nazionale di San Matteo
Art lovers, rejoice! The Museo Nazionale di San Matteo is home to medieval and Renaissance art that is breathtaking and often overlooked by casual tourists. From sculptures to paintings, this museum showcases Pisa’s artistic legacy in a more intimate setting than the crowded tower area. Based on my overall experience, spending a few hours here gives you an unexpected depth of appreciation for Pisa’s creative history.
9. Chiesa di San Francesco
Another underrated gem is the Church of San Francesco. Its serene interior and understated architecture make it a perfect stop for reflection and photography. The calm atmosphere here is a contrast to the tourist bustle, letting you slow down and absorb the spiritual and historical essence of Pisa.
10. Borgo Stretto
If you enjoy shopping and lively streets, Borgo Stretto is the place to be. This pedestrian-friendly street is lined with boutiques, cafes, and gelaterias. It’s ideal for a mix of sightseeing, people-watching, and tasting local delicacies. The vibe here makes you feel like you’re part of the city rather than just passing through it.
11. Museo delle Sinopie
For something truly unique, visit the Museo delle Sinopie. Here, you’ll see the preparatory sketches of frescoes from the Camposanto Monumentale, giving insight into the creative process of medieval artists. It’s like peeking behind the curtain of history. From my own personal experience, seeing these sketches makes you appreciate the effort and skill that went into Pisa’s monumental art.
12. Climb the Tower of San Nicola
Not the Leaning Tower, but the less famous Tower of San Nicola. It’s a hidden climbing experience that offers stunning city views without the crowds. Plus, it’s fun to pretend you’re discovering a secret tower no one else knows about. The view from the top gives you a whole new perspective on Pisa, literally and figuratively.
13. Pisa’s Local Food Scene
You can’t explore a city without tasting its food. From hearty Tuscan pasta to fresh seafood, Pisa’s culinary offerings are a delight. Don’t miss cecina, a chickpea flour pancake that locals swear by, or pappa al pomodoro, a traditional tomato bread soup. From my overall experience, stopping at small trattorias rather than tourist traps not only fills you up but also immerses you in Pisa’s authentic flavors.
14. Sunset from Ponte di Mezzo
Finally, end your day with a walk across the Ponte di Mezzo, the main bridge over the Arno River. Watching the sunset reflect on the water, with the city’s historic buildings lining the riverbanks, is pure magic. It’s a perfect way to close your Pisa adventure, away from the tower crowds, and reflect on everything you’ve seen and experienced.
Pisa is so much more than a tilted tower. From hidden churches to quiet streets, incredible museums, and delicious food, there’s a depth to this city that often goes unnoticed. Based on my overall experience, exploring these 14 spots gives you a richer, fuller, and more personal connection to Pisa. So next time you visit, put down your selfie stick for a bit, step off the beaten path, and discover the side of Pisa that truly deserves your attention.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.