The Leaning Tower has become a symbol of Pisa and one of the most recognizable monuments in the world. It is one of the buildings that I have always wanted to see. Often, as with dreams, they look completely different in person. However, this was not the case here; the Leaning Tower did not disappoint me.
Let me start with a personal story: I do not think that I would have seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa had it not been for my friend Simona. I met Simona during my Erasmus in Turkey, and after the semester ended, I visited her in Pisa. I flew to Milan because it was the fastest (and then cheapest) option, and the drive to Pisa from Milan allowed me to discover the beauty of the Italian landscape. The trip took about three hours.
After arriving at Pisa Centrale station, I went to Simona’s apartment, where she offered me accommodation for a few days. Thanks to her knowledge of local attractions and curiosities, I was able to experience the authentic face of Pisa.
What is it like in Pisa? Is it worth going there just to see the Leaning Tower? I will tell you about it in this entry.
Table of Contents
Attractions of Pisa
During my stay, I visited many sights and attractions. I spent some time in the Piazza dei Miracoli, which was bustling with tourists and locals. Of course, during the tour I couldn’t miss the Leaning Tower, which impressed me with its unusual construction and history. Pisa also offers many other attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and parks. In my free time, I strolled through the historic streets, exploring local stores and cafes.
A visit to the Cathedral and St. John’s Baptistery also left an unforgettable impression. Both buildings were stunning with their beautiful architecture and rich interior design.
Leaning Tower of Pisa: What to Know
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most famous and characteristic buildings in the world.
Let me start perhaps by saying that it is part of the historic complex of Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Campo dei Miracoli consists of the aforementioned cathedral, baptistery, cemetery, and bell tower, known as the “Leaning Tower.”
Here are some interesting facts to know about this unique monument:
- Work on the tower began in 1174 and lasted for 199 years. The designers were Guglielmo and Bonanno Pisano. The structure was built of marble and has eight stories, including a bell tower at the top.
- The Leaning Tower of Pisa owes its name and fame to its unusual stance. The tower’s charm lies in its unusual tilt, which is the result of ground settlement during construction. The slope is about 5 degrees.
- It is possible to climb to the top of the Leaning Tower, but the number of people who can do so at once is limited for safety reasons. Climbing the tower is done in groups, and tickets can be purchased on-site or booked in advance online.
- The tower was restored between 1990 and 2011. Work was carried out over the years to secure the structure from further tilting. This was worked on by a team of architects of Polish origin, Michele Jamiolkowski (I recommend reading the history of this outstanding man).
Pisa: Where to Eat?
I have a few places to recommend:
- Vero Bistro – a perfect place for a morning cappuccino
- Panificio Silvestri – they serve delicious buns, and there is also pizza and focaccia available.
We ate our lunches at home or traveled further, such as to Florence, exploring Tuscany. In the evenings, I spent time with Simona and her friends, who were happy to show me the local bars. We drank wine and ate pizza, and in this way, I was able to experience the Italian nightlife culture. It was an unforgettable trip full of wonderful experiences and beautiful memories. If you want to follow in my footsteps, head to Piazza delle Vettovaglie, where you can feel the local atmosphere, drink wine, and eat pizza.
Where to sleep?
Pisa’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding attractions and picturesque landscapes. Tourists can choose from a variety of accommodation options, ranging from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels. There are also apartments or beautiful villas.
Recommended, well-rated accommodations can be found below:
wonderfully decorated rooms, in a guesthouse 700 meters from the Leaning Tower you will see and book here
here you will book a fully equipped villa with a garden and private parking
comfortable apartment, which is interestingly and stylishly furnished, you will find here
Pisa: Is it Worth To Visit?
Some people say that on a trip to Tuscany, you should skip Pisa, that there are many more interesting places. If you are not interested in the Leaning Tower, then by all means. However, in my opinion, Pisa is a city worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.
This post is different and more personal, where interesting facts about the Leaning Tower are intertwined with my experiences. Let me know how you like this format!
More Places in Tuscany:
Florence – the cradle of the Renaissance, a city full of art and history
Siena – a city with a medieval atmosphere, famous for its Palio horse race
Lucca – a charming city with a well-preserved historic center and ancient walls
San Gimignano – a hilltop town with medieval towers, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Montepulciano – a town famous for its wine, with Renaissance architecture and beautiful views of the Tuscan countryside.
Tuscany Travel Guide: Discover Attractions and Interesting Places
Florence: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Attractions
Best Things to Do in Siena: A Must-Read Guide for Your Tuscany Adventure
