City Breaks in Pisa

Although home to the much-loved Leaning Tower, Pisa contains a number of architectural treasures as well.  In addition to a charming stroll along the banks of the Arno River, explore some of Pisa's many palaces and see the Duomo from Piazza dei Miracoli.

Stunning architecture

The image of the Leaning Tower of Pisa is instantly recognisable, even to those who have never set foot inside Italy. Pay an early visit to the Piazza dei Miracoli, formerly known as the Piazza del Duomo, if you want to try and beat the crowds during the summer months. It's here that you'll also find Pisa's impressive cathedral, Cattedrale di Pisa, Pisa Baptistry and the Camposanto Monumentale cloistered cemetery.

Also worth visiting is Santa Maria della Spina, a wonderful Gothic church next to the south bank of the Fiume Arno, which flows through the heart of the city.

Museums and galleries

Housing a fantastic collection of medieval art is the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo. Look out for sculptures by Donatello and Nicola Pisano, along with paintings by artists including Ghirlandaio, Giunta Pisano and Lippo Memmi.

The Museo dell'Opera del Duomo is home to another impressive collection of sculptures and religious artwork. If you have time, try and squeeze in a visit to Palazzo Blu, a restored 14th-century building that regularly hosts temporary exhibitions alongside its collection of works by local artists, mainly created between the 14th and 17th centuries.

Explore the city

Escape the crowds around the Piazza dei Miracoli by taking a stroll along the river, or visiting the lush surroundings of Giardino Scotto to enjoy a picnic among the trees. Head off to explore some of Pisa's wonderful squares, such as Piazza dei Cavalieri, the Square of Knights, home to an impressive statue of Cosimo I de Medici by Pietro Francavilla. Perhaps take a table at one of the many cafés and restaurants dotted around Piazza Alighieri Dante, where you'll be able to take time out to rest your feet and watch the world go by.

Eating and drinking

It's impossible to fully enjoy city breaks in Pisa without sampling the fabulous food and drink on offer. There's a wealth of fine dining restaurants and relaxed cafés to try and it makes complete sense to sample as many as possible.

Hidden down the small alleyway Vicolo del Monte is Il Montino, a restaurant widely considered to sell the best pizzas in the city. If you're looking to start the evening with a cocktail, try the nearby Millibar Ristorante & Pub. With its bare stone walls and simple terracotta floors, La Grotta is known for its wonderful ambience as well as its exceptional food.