Car Hire Pisa

Mini guide to Pisa

One of the premier tourist destinations in the world, the town of Pisa houses the stunning Leaning Tower, along with several other architectural treasures. It is also conveniently located near some of the most untouched countryside in Italy, as well as being near to the famed Tuscany Coast.

For most visitors the Leaning Tower of Pisa is the highlight of the town. Begun in 1173, the tower was finally completed in 1350 and has always tilted to some degree. The tower forms part of the set of three architectural wonders of Pisa - the Tower, the Doumo, and the Baptistery, reached through the imposing bronze doors of the Portale di San Ranieri. The Tower has been in danger of collapsing several times, and the latest effort to reverse the tilting was completed in 2000, with minor adjustments continuing to lessen the tilt to what it was in the 16th century. The tower is circular, and consists of six storeys crowned by a bell-chamber. When it’s open, the 293-stair climb to the top of the tower is well worth the effort for the stunning views of Pisa and the surrounding countryside.

Nearby are the magnificent 12th century Doumo, with its grey marble and white stone colonnades, and the intriguing mixed Romanesque and Gothic Baptistery, with its spectacular design and simple, unadorned majesty. Elsewhere in the town are the fascinating museums of Museo dell'Opera del Duomo and Museo delle Sinopie, while the Camposanto cemetery offers a tranquil escape from the crowds, with its picturesque ramparts and medieval Torre di Santa Maria.

Pisa abounds with quality accommodation and excellent restaurants. The nightlife scene is varied, with quiet cafes and bars and vibrant pubs and clubs.

For more stunning architecture, travel to the nearby fortified town of Lucca, which boasts several magnificent Romanesque churches. Those who have had their fill of old buildings can head for the superb Tuscany beaches of the Maremma region, or take a boat out to the scenic islands of Elba, Giglio and Capraia.

Pisa can be reached via rail connections from Rome or Milan, both of which have busy international airports.