Beyond the Leaning Tower: A Walk Through Pisa's Old Town

When most people think of visiting Pisa, the Leaning Tower in Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) immediately comes to mind. However, just a short walk south from the tower reveals the old town, where the daily life of this ancient university city unfolds.

Along the Arno River, you'll find the Lungarni, with its pastel-colored buildings, the arcaded street of Borgo Stretto, and Piazza dei Cavalieri, which was renovated during the Renaissance. These areas are conveniently close for a walking tour.

This route is recommended for travelers who want to discover Pisa at a more leisurely pace, rather than just taking one photo and leaving.

The Arno Riverbanks, Lungarni, and Santa Maria della Spina

The riverbanks along the Arno, which runs through Pisa, are called Lungarni. As you walk along the river, look up to see a row of historic palaces and old buildings in shades of yellow, orange, and pink.

On the south bank stands Santa Maria della Spina, a small Gothic church. This church, renowned for its intricate sculptural details, has a story of being dismantled and rebuilt in the 19th century to protect it from Arno River floods.

Standing on Ponte di Mezzo, the bridge connecting the two sides of the river, offers a panoramic view of the riverbanks.

Through the Borgo Stretto Arcades to Piazza dei Cavalieri

Cross to the north side of the river, and you'll find Borgo Stretto, a street lined with arcades. This has been a commercial street since medieval times, and it still bustles with shops and cafes today.

Adjacent to it is Piazza delle Vettovaglie, a market square that took its current form during the Medici era in the 16th century. It’s a great spot to take a break, surrounded by arched arcades.

Walk a little further to reach Piazza dei Cavalieri, the political center of medieval Pisa. This square was renovated in 1558 by Cosimo I de' Medici, who commissioned Giorgio Vasari for the work. The Palazzo della Carovana, with its exterior covered in sgraffito decoration, is particularly striking.

Exploring the Old Town on Foot or by Golf Cart

If it’s your first time in Pisa, taking a tour can help reduce the stress of planning your route. A walking tour typically starts at the fountain in front of Pisa Central Station, where you meet your guide. For about two hours, you'll walk through the neighborhoods on both sides of the Arno, explore Borgo Stretto and Piazza dei Cavalieri, and finish at Piazza dei Miracoli.

Along the way, you'll encounter 'Tuttomondo', a large mural painted by Keith Haring in 1989 on the back wall of the convent beside the Church of Sant'Antonio, depicting the harmony between people, animals, and nature.

If walking feels like too much, an electric golf cart tour is also available. Starting from Piazza dell'Arcivescovado, next to Piazza dei Miracoli, these tours last about an hour and stop at 11 locations, allowing you to comfortably see sights like Palazzo Blu, Santa Maria della Spina, and Piazza dei Cavalieri.

Keep in mind that the walking tour only covers the exteriors of the Cathedral and the Leaning Tower. After taking photos of the Leaning Tower, if you're curious to learn more about Pisa, venture into the charming alleys of the old town.