Pisa: a Walking Tour to Discover the Most Hated City in Tuscany

Pisa’s reputation as the "most hated city in Tuscany" may seem undeserved. Yet, this misunderstood gem holds a captivating history and architectural wonders waiting to be explored. On a 2.5-hour walking tour, discover the city’s iconic sites, from the Leaning Tower to the stunning Piazza dei Cavalieri. Enjoy tales of rivalry and resilience as a local guide unveils Pisa’s cultural charm. What secrets does this medieval city hide?

Key Points

1. Explore Pisa’s evolution from a Roman colony to a maritime republic, including its historical rivalry with other Tuscan cities.
2. Discover the architectural marvels of the Square of Miracles, such as the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, and Baptistery, and understand their Gothic and Romanesque influences.
3. Immerse in Pisa’s medieval and Renaissance ambiance by visiting the historic Piazza delle Vettovaglie market square and enjoying an aperitif or traditional dessert in a Renaissance cloister.
4. Learn about the life and legacy of renowned scientist Galileo Galilei, who was born in Pisa, through a visit to his house.
5. Benefit from the expertise of a local professional guide who will provide insights into Pisa’s rich history and cultural significance during the 2.5-hour walking tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The walking tour of Pisa is a 2.5-hour experience that costs $108.13 per person.

Guests can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. A reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour starts at Porta Nuova and visits key sites like Piazza dei Cavalieri and Borgo Stretto, ending at Ponte di Mezzo.

Travelers get to see the Cathedral, Leaning Tower, and optional Baptistery entry. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and there’s a strict dress code for Cathedral entry.

Tour Details and Itinerary

The walking tour of Pisa begins at Porta Nuova, the main gateway to the historic city center.

From there, the group will explore:

• Piazza dei Cavalieri, the former seat of the Knights of St. Stephen, for 1 hour

• Borgo Stretto, a lively medieval street, for 20 minutes

• The iconic Leaning Tower and Cathedral in the renowned Piazza dei Miracoli

• The option to visit the impressive Baptistery

• The Ponte di Mezzo bridge, marking the end of the tour

The guide will provide historical context and insights into Pisa’s rich past as a maritime power, sharing legends and customs along the way.

Historical Context and Highlights

As visitors explore Pisa’s historic center, they’ll learn about the city’s evolution from a Roman colony to a powerful maritime republic.

The tour highlights Pisa’s legends and customs, including its historical rivalry with other Tuscan cities. Guests discover the architectural marvels of the Square of Miracles, such as the Baptistery and Cathedral.

They learn how these structures reflect Pisa’s past, from its Roman roots to its Gothic and Romanesque influences.

The walking tour provides a glimpse into the city’s rich history and the significant role it played in the region’s development over the centuries.

Cultural Insights and Experiences

Along With exploring Pisa’s historical landmarks, the walking tour offers opportunities to immerse visitors in the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.

Guests can enjoy an aperitif or the traditional Torta coi Bischeri dessert in a Renaissance cloister, providing a taste of local cuisine.

The tour also visits the house of renowned astronomer Galileo Galilei and the ancient Piazza delle Vettovaglie market square, where one can soak up the atmosphere of Pisa’s medieval and Renaissance past through stories and legends shared by the guide.

Key cultural experiences include:

• Aperitif or dessert in a Renaissance cloister

• Visit to Galileo Galilei’s house

• Exploring the historic Piazza delle Vettovaglie

• Hearing legends and tales from the knowledgeable guide

• Taking in Pisa’s medieval and Renaissance ambiance

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Square of Miracles

Situated at the heart of Pisa, the iconic Square of Miracles stands as a captivating ensemble of architectural masterpieces. At its center, the Leaning Tower’s striking profile commands attention, its tilt a testament to Pisa’s engineering prowess. The adjoining Cathedral and Baptistery dazzle with ornate facades and intricate details. As visitors meander through the square, they can admire the harmonious blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles that define this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

| Structure | Height (m) | Construction Period |

| — | — | — |

| Leaning Tower | 56.67 | 1173 – 1372 |

| Cathedral | 54 | 1063 – 1118 |

| Baptistery | 54.86 | 1153 – 1363 |

| Monumental Cemetery | 56.67 | 1218 – 1464 |

| Camposanto Monumentale | 53.4 | 1278 – 1464 |

Discovering Pisa’s Rivalry and Legends

Pisa’s rich history is marked by a longstanding rivalry with neighboring Tuscan cities, giving rise to a tapestry of legends and folklore.

Visitors can expect to uncover:

• The bitter competition between Pisa and Florence, with tales of daring military exploits and political intrigue.

• Legends surrounding the construction of the iconic Leaning Tower, including the rumor that it was built intentionally crooked.

• Customs and superstitions tied to the Cathedral and Baptistery, reflecting Pisa’s complex relationship with religion and the divine.

• Stories of Pisa’s glory days as a powerful maritime republic, and its eventual decline in the face of regional rivalries.

• Insights into the city’s lingering resentment towards its neighbors, which continues to shape its unique identity.

Visiting the House of Galileo Galilei

As visitors stroll through Pisa’s vibrant streets, they’ll come across the modest residence where the legendary astronomer Galileo Galilei once lived.

This unassuming building, located in the heart of the city, offers a glimpse into the life and work of one of history’s most influential scientific minds. Guests can explore Galileo’s former home, learning about his groundbreaking discoveries and the pivotal role he played in the scientific revolution.

The visit provides a unique opportunity to connect with Pisa’s rich intellectual heritage and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s enduring contributions to the world of science.

Practical Information and Dress Code

The tour includes a local professional guide, as well as admission tickets to the Leaning Tower, Monumental Cemetery, and Cathedral.

Comfortable shoes are recommended for the 2.5-hour walking tour. Visitors should also note the strict dress code for cathedral entry – no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts are allowed.

The meeting point is under the arch of Porta Nuova, where you’ll find the tour guide with a Tuscany Region Authorized Guide badge.

• Comfortable shoes required

• Strict dress code for cathedral entry

• Meeting point under Porta Nuova arch

• Local professional guide provided

• Admission tickets included

The Sum Up

This walking tour provides a captivating exploration of Pisa, often dubbed the "most hated city in Tuscany." Discover its rich history, architectural wonders, and cultural insights as you visit iconic sites like the Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Cavalieri. Enjoy tales of rivalry and resilience, savor the local Torta coi Bischeri, and visit Galileo Galilei’s house, all while absorbing the medieval charm of this misunderstood gem.

You can check availability for your dates here: