villa tramontalba
a base for exploreres

Pisa is well-known for its iconic Leaning Tower, a magnet for tourists seeking that perfect snapshot. However, beneath its touristy facade, Pisa hides a trove of treasures waiting to be explored. Pisa has a rich history steeped in academia and military significance. It served as a pivotal port city for Tuscany and nurtured some of Italy’s most eminent figures, from Galileo Galilei to Andrea Bocelli.

Drenched in medieval charm, Pisa attracts visitors with its labyrinthine streets and remarkable landmarks. 

What to see in Pisa:

Piazza dei Miracoli
Dubbed the Square of Miracles, Piazza dei Miracoli is a testament to Pisa’s architectural prowess. Home to the iconic Leaning Tower, the square also hosts the Cathedral and Baptistery, all crafted from pristine white marble. The cathedral, adorned with Gothic sculptures by Giovanni Pisano, houses a treasure trove of Italian artistry. Don’t miss the Museo dell’Opera for a glimpse of ancient Egyptian and Roman artifacts.

Università di Pisa
Established in 1343, the University of Pisa has a rich legacy of academic excellence. Known for its scholarship program, the university offers full-ride scholarships to Italy’s brightest minds. Take a leisurely stroll through its historic campus, where luminaries like popes and Nobel Laureates once roamed.

Orto Botanico
Located within the university’s confines lies Europe’s oldest botanical garden, Orto Botanico. Founded by Cosimo de Medici in 1544, this verdant oasis showcases a dazzling array of flora. Explore its leafy trails and dive into the serenity of nature.

Santa Maria della Spina
Go on a riverside stroll along the Arno River and discover the Santa Maria della Spina. Despite its size, this Gothic gem boasts intricate spires and pinnacles, steeped in centuries of history.

Borgo Stretto
Step back in time as you wander through Borgo Stretto, Pisa’s medieval quarter. Traverse cobblestone streets flanked by Gothic-Romanesque churches and iconic leaning towers, a testament to Pisa’s architectural characteristics.

Piazza dei Cavalieri
Once the epicenter of power, Piazza dei Cavalieri exudes an air of grandeur. Admire historical edifices like Palazzo della Carovana and Santo Stefano degli Cavalieri, a 16th-century marvel designed by Giorgio Vasari.

Palazzo Reale
Delve into Pisa’s aristocratic past with a visit to Palazzo Reale. This 16th-century royal abode once hosted luminaries like Galileo Galilei, who unveiled his astronomical discoveries to the Grand Duke of Tuscany.

Must try: Food

In every Tuscan town, including Pisa, you’ll uncover a vibrant local food scene rooted in simple yet flavorful dishes made from the region’s finest ingredients: seasonal vegetables, premium extra virgin olive oil, savory cold cuts, olives, pecorino cheese, meats, and bread, all complemented by delightful wines.

When spending a day in Pisa, immerse yourself in the city’s culinary delights and experience its gastronomic heritage like a true local. Food and wine are integral to Pisan culture and identity, offering a tantalizing journey into the region’s culinary traditions. Pisa invites you to savor its array of signature dishes, from seafood delights and hearty meat-based recipes to savory treats like Cecina, a savory chickpea pie, and Torta coi bischeri, a delectable cake adorned with prized pine nuts.

For discerning food enthusiasts, indulge in pasta dishes featuring game sauces like hare or wild boar, along with Ravioli adorned with ragout sauce made from local cow meat known as “mucco pisano.”

With its maritime heritage, Pisa has a bounty of seafood specialties, including Spaghetti con le arselle (clam pasta), stuffed mussels Pisan-style, and Grilled salt cod with leeks. Don’t miss the “poor man’s Anchovie,” fresh anchovies marinated in white vinegar and served with sliced onion, parsley, salt, pepper, and extra virgin olive oil.

A must-visit in Pisa is its known pizzerias, where you can relish two local favorites: Cecina, a savory pie made from chickpea flour, and Pizza Pisana, a traditional Pisan pizza featuring tomato sauce, anchovies, capers, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying snack.

Beyond its magnificent monuments, Pisa’s historic center is adorned with traditional pastry shops offering an enticing array of local treats. Indulge in the famed Torta coi bischeri, a Pisan cake enriched with chocolate, rice, raisins, and organic pine nuts, cherished delicacies emblematic of the region’s culinary heritage. The term “bischeri” denotes the cake’s distinctive edges, adding a touch of whimsy to its delicious allure.

Luckily your will easily get your 20k steps in 😉