During a visit to Rome, we took a spontaneous day trip over to Pisa, Italy. Although I’ve learned about the Leaning Tower in school, I never imagined I’d get the chance to see it in person. After nearly 12 hours in the city, one day is really all you need to see the best of what Pisa has to offer.
Here’s a Day Trip to Pisa, Italy:
Getting to Pisa
Taking a train with a direct route from Rome, the journey is around 2.5 hours. We depart Rome at 8:30 AM and return back in the city by 11 PM. Even though that may seem like a short period to visit and explore a city, I think it’s ample time for Pisa. If you want to go directly to the Leaning Tower from the train station, the walk will take about 10 minutes.
Instead of taking the train, you can also drive to Pisa or fly in to their international airport.
My First Impressions of Pisa
Although Pisa is home to around 100,000 people, it definitely doesn’t feel like it! While walking around on the streets, it seems too quiet for a city this big. That stillness adds to the Pisa charm and continues on through the cobblestone alleyways. Since the main attractions are centrally located, most of the streets in Pisa are free of tourists. The entire city adorns enchanting Tuscany-inspired buildings, a quaint small-town feel and the smell of authentic pasta floating through the air.
Exploring Pisa
Upon arriving to the train station, we head east searching for a place to eat lunch. Open for their 3 hour lunch, The Ristorante Lo Schiaccianoci is my first true Italian meal since arriving in the country.
After eating, we continue in the same direction to explore the streets. Along the way, we stumble upon many beautiful buildings, embellished with Romanesque architecture and detailed statues. The Arno River runs directly through Pisa and, charmingly lined with Italian-style stucco homes.
Pisa’s Field of Miracles
After strolling on the east side of Pisa, we begin the walk towards the Leaning Tower. Visiting landmark monuments that I’ve only ever read about in books is one of the more exciting parts of traveling!
To my surprise, multiple monuments surround the area of the Leaning Tower. I learn that the bell tower is one of four buildings that make up the Cathedral Complex, Piazza dei Miracoli or ‘Field of Miracles.’
Buying Tickets for the Leaning Tower
You can’t come all the way to Pisa without actually going up in the Leaning Tower, right? On the north side of the square is a ticket office to tour the Leaning Tower or you can buy them ahead of time here.
Upon purchasing the tickets, we’re given a scheduled time for when the tour will start. With about an hour before that time, we use the included ticket to explore the Cathedral nearby.
Duomo di Pisa
The Cathedral, called Duomo di Pisa, began construction in 1093 and is a one of a kind place. Truly embodying the Romanesque architecture from medieval times, the inside is just as stunning as the outside.
Walking Around the Leaning Tower
With a little time to spare before the tour, take some time to walk around the perimeter of the Leaning Tower. I loved taking photos from different angles and seeing how the lean would adjust to where I was standing!
The Inside of the Leaning Tower
Making it an easier experience, only around 10 people at a time are admitted for a tour. Upon entering the Tower’s lobby, that iconic lean already takes hold, especially when seated for the introduction.
Although a climb of 8 floors with over 280 steps is required to reach the top, it’s an easy 10-15 minute journey. On the top floor of the Leaning Tower, you’re met with stunning views of surrounding Pisa and can also get up close and personal with the bell.
Was the Day Trip Worth It?
YES! Surprisingly, I was actually pretty reserved about the idea of leaving Rome for a day but I truly adored the unplanned excursion. After spending the day there, I would have been disappointed if we didn’t go. Pisa is such a quaint little Italian city and, if given the chance, should be visited by all travelers.
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