Pisa 3 Days
Day 1: Iconic Pisa
Morning:
1. Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles):
– Leaning Tower of Pisa: Start your day by visiting the iconic Leaning Tower. If you want to climb it, make sure to book your tickets in advance.
– Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Pisa): Explore the stunning cathedral next to the tower.
– Baptistery of St. John: Visit the largest baptistery in Italy, known for its acoustics and architectural beauty.
Afternoon:
1. Camposanto Monumentale (Monumental Cemetery): Walk through this historical cemetery, which is an often-overlooked gem with beautiful frescoes.
2. Museo dell’Opera del Duomo: This museum houses many of the original artworks and artifacts from the cathedral and other monuments in the square.
Evening:
1. Stroll along the Arno River: Walk along the riverbanks and enjoy the sunset. The Lungarni (streets along the Arno) are picturesque and offer a great atmosphere.
2. Dinner in Borgo Stretto: This charming street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy a meal at a traditional Italian trattoria.
Day 2: Pisa Beyond the Leaning Tower
Morning:
1. Palazzo della Carovana: Visit this beautiful palace located in Piazza dei Cavalieri, which now houses the Scuola Normale Superiore, one of Italy’s most prestigious universities.
2. Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri: Nearby, this church is worth a visit for its beautiful interior and historical significance.
Afternoon:
1. Museo Nazionale di San Matteo: This museum features an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance art, including works by artists from Pisa and the surrounding region.
2. Orto Botanico di Pisa: Explore one of Europe’s oldest botanical gardens, founded in the 16th century.
Evening:
1. Dinner in Piazza delle Vettovaglie: This lively square is a great place to experience local cuisine and enjoy the evening atmosphere.
Day 3: Day Trip to Lucca
Morning:
1. Travel to Lucca: Take a morning train to Lucca (about 30 minutes from Pisa).
2. Lucca’s City Walls: Start your visit by walking or biking along the well-preserved Renaissance walls that encircle the historic center.
Afternoon:
1. Piazza dell’Anfiteatro: Visit this unique oval-shaped square that was once a Roman amphitheater.
2. Lucca Cathedral (Duomo di San Martino): Explore this beautiful cathedral and its impressive artwork, including the Volto Santo, a wooden crucifix believed to date back to the 8th century.
3. Torre Guinigi: Climb this tower, famous for the oak trees growing at its top, for a panoramic view of the city.
Evening:
1. Stroll through Lucca: Enjoy wandering the charming streets and perhaps visit some local shops.
2. Dinner in Lucca: Savor a meal at one of the city’s many excellent restaurants before heading back to Pisa.
Return to Pisa: Take the evening train back to Pisa and enjoy a final evening stroll along the Arno River.