Pisa

Pisa, city, central Italy, in the Toscana (Tuscany) regione. The city lies on the alluvial plain of the Arno River, about 6 miles (10 km) from the Ligurian Sea and 50 miles (80 km) west of Florence. Pisa lay by the sea until the 15th century, by which time accumulated silt deposited by the Arno River had completely cut the city off from the receding shoreline. Pisa is now a quiet provincial university town that is renowned for its art and architectural treasures. The city also retains much of its 6.5-mile (10.5-kilometre) circuit of walls. Pisa is one of the most exciting cities in Italy, with plenty of things to see and do.

Obviously, the main spot in town is the Leaning Tower, but the city is a vibrant college town and offers plenty of other spots that are worth a look. Everyone knows that Pisa has a tower and that the tower leans. This spectacular torre is located on Piazza dei Miracoli, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. After taking one of those essential tourist photos, climb to the top of the belltower. The stairway is made of almost 300 marble stairs, but the view is worth the effort. From the very top of the tower, it’s possible to admire a breathtaking view over the city, the Arno River, surrounding mountains and, on sunny days, the sea far in the distance.

Everyone comes here to see the tower, but Piazza dei Miracoli is also home to one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Italy, the Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta. This church is an excellent example of Roman-Pisan gothic architecture and is completely made of white marble. The contrast of colours between the white façade of the Duomo and the surrounding green grass is simply spectacular. Italians love markets of all kinds, but food markets are something they excel at. The old vegetable and fruit markets around Piazza delle Vettovaglie, one of the most frequented squares in Pisa, is a great stop if you want to buy some fresh food for a quick lunch or just to live an authentic Italian moment.