tour leaning tower of pisa

• Best places to visit in Tuscany

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Pisa’s main attraction is certainly its Leaning Tower . It is one of the icons of Pisa and the whole of Italy, and is undoubtedly one of the most famous and visited monuments by tourists from all over the world, who never miss a chance to take or have their photos taken in the most extravagant or curious positions.

The Tower is the bell tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta , which is located a few metres away. We are located in Piazza dei Miracoli , the most beautiful monumental area of Pisa, north of the historical centre; the tower is about 56 metres high and today is inclined at about 4 degrees to the vertical axis.

Work on the construction of the Leaning Tower of Pisa began in 1173, and immediately ground subsidence occurred, leading to the interruption of work when only three storeys had been built. The building site was at a standstill for about 100 years, and only restarted in 1275. From its completion almost another 100 years later in 1372 to the present day, the tower has always been the focus of restoration and conservation work to prevent it from tilting too much and to minimise the risk of collapse. The last works were only completed in 2008, and from this date it is estimated that the inclination may remain unchanged for at least another 300 years.

Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower can be visited throughout the year. The visit involves climbing 251 steps , some of which are uneven and slippery, and it is therefore not recommended for those with motor problems or cardiovascular diseases. For safety reasons, children under the age of 8 are not allowed to enter.

It is not possible to purchase a ticket for the tower alone, but must be purchased in addition to the visit to the Cathedral. Alternatively, it is possible to buy a cumulative ticket for the complete visit of Piazza dei Miracoli, i.e. the tower, baptistery, cemetery, cathedral, Museo dell’Opera del Duomo and Museo delle Sinopie. The cumulative ticket is, of course, much more expensive, but for those interested in entering all the monuments it can be an excellent opportunity.

The ticket for the Leaning Tower of Pisa is only valid at the time of purchase, so you have to choose your turn in advance; for all other monuments the ticket is valid for one year during opening hours. Entry is permitted up to 30 minutes before closing time, which varies according to the months of the year.

The Bells of the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa has 7 bells , which ring before masses and at midday, while originally each bell rang at a particular time.

• Assunta bell: this is the largest of the entire bell tower, with a mass of no less than 2600 kg. It dates back to 1654, when it was cast by Giovanni Pietro Orlandi.
• Crocifisso bell: initially cast in 1572 and then again in 1818, it has a mass of 1850kg.
• San Ranieri bell: originally called the Bell of Justice, and located in the palace of the same name; it originally rang for the deaths of traitors, and was taken to the Tower of Pisa in the 15th century.
• Dal Pozzo bell: severely damaged by bombs during World War II, the original was taken to a museum, and a copy, made by the Marinelli foundry in Agnone, was put in its place.
• Easter bell : it takes this name because in past centuries it used to ring on Easter Day. It is the oldest bell in the tower, dating back to 1262.
• Third Bell: in past centuries, this was the bell that rang at the third hour of the day, i.e. nine o’clock in the morning. It is a rather small bell, made in Alsace or Lorraine in 1473.
• Vespruccio Bell: this is the smallest of the seven, with a mass of ‘only’ 120kg. It originally rang at the hour of Vespers, i.e. at six o’clock in the afternoon.

Tickets and guided tours of the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa can be visited in total autonomy, all you have to do is buy a ticket and visit it at your own pace, whether it is a simple ticket, combined with other attractions, or with a guided tour.

Skip-the-line ticket for the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The most common and sold ticket includes both entrance to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Duomo . As it is one of the most visited attractions in Italy, it is highly recommended to book tickets online before you go.

Piazza dei Miracoli Full Ticket

Alternatively, for a little more money, you can secure tickets and a visit to all the monuments in the splendid Piazza dei Miracoli : Leaning Tower of Pisa, Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Camposanto, Baptistery, Museo dell’Opera del Duomo and Museo delle Sinopie.

Ticket + guided tour

However, it is certainly possible to hire a private guide who will accompany you during the ascent and show you the highlights of this incredible monument. You can also take part in a group tour that will take you to discover the beauties of Pisa, of which the Tower is obviously at the top of the list.

There are also tours of Pisa with a visit to the Leaning Tower departing from Florence ; as the two cities are only an hour’s drive apart, this is the perfect day trip for those staying in the Tuscan capital and wanting to see as much as possible.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa in numbers

• 2 metres above sea level
• 58.36 metres above sea level on the foundation level, corresponding to 100 Pisan fathoms
• 55.86 metres of altitude on the low side, 56.70 metres on the high side
• 5.82 metres in height of each loggia
• 15.48 metres outside diameter at the base
• 14453 tons total mass
• 7 bells total
• 296 steps up to the belfry
• 251 steps open to the public during the visit

Useful information

Entrance ticket.

• Monday: 09:00 - 20:00
• Tuesday: 09:00 - 20:00
• Wednesday: 09:00 - 20:00
• Thursday: 09:00 - 20:00
• Friday: 09:00 - 20:00
• Saturday: 09:00 - 20:00
• Sunday: 09:00 - 20:00
• Torre 1 (350 mt)

Where is located Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is located in the centre of Piazza dei Miracoli, north of the historical centre of the Tuscan city.

• Tower of Pisa tickets: everything you need to know to organise your visit in 2023
• Places and Tours

Have you ever climbed to the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa ? Don't waste time reserve your tickets and skip the queue , live this unique experience!

How to buy tickets to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa ? Famous worldwide for the elegance of its architecture and the uniqueness of its statics . It was begun in 1173 and interrupted due to a subsidence that caused it to lean . It was resumed in 1275 by Giovanni di Simone and possibly completed by Tommaso di Andrea di Pondera at the end of the 14th century. Its height is 55.22 m on the north side and 54.52 m on the south side, with a height difference of 4.265 m. From there, Galileo Galilei conducted his famous experiments with falling bodies .

Leaning Tower of Pisa: why it is the most popular monument on social media

If I asked you what the most iconic monument in Italy is, I am one hundred per cent sure that the Leaning Tower of Pisa would be on your list of Italy's most iconic monuments . How could you be wrong: it is one of the most visited and photographed monuments in the world , known everywhere and often associated with Made in Italy in every way . Although the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a very powerful symbol as a reference to our beloved Italy, yet many people do not know its history . Neither do they know the interesting things related to it, such as the reason for its slope , and are content with a selfie with its unmistakable backdrop . You can find it everywhere on social media with everyone trying their hand at holding it up. With this post we want to pay homage to a monument that we have been lucky enough to know since we were children because of its uniqueness. Sometimes we Italians take it for granted, but we all take a selfie with the Tower of Pisa in the background sooner or later . Why not try a funny pose in an attempt to hold it and not let it fall. Come and see the Leaning Tower of Pisa .

Can one climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa? How to buy tickets for the Tower of Pisa?

The answer is yes, and about three million people a year experience this and actually do it . This way you will understand that you need to plan your ascent in advance , making even better use of the opportunity to skip the queue. On our website, in the Ticket section, you can find many ways to buy tickets for the Leaning Tower of Pisa , either to skip the queue or for a guided tour of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and the rest of the attractions that Piazza dei Miracoli offers. We recommend this because the queues can be very long and also because there is a limited number of people who can enter for security reasons.

Leaning Tower of Pisa, why you need to organise your visit and reserve your tickets in time

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is beautiful from below, have you ever stopped to admire it? Have you ever tried climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa on a sunny June afternoon, but also on any other day of the year? Let me tell you that the experience will be unique and enjoyable . But watch out for many small details, especially concerning safety. We will help you make the experience even more exciting. Get organised in good time and plan your visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and its ascent to the top . First you need to make a reservation . Tickets are available 16 days in advance, from the day you want to board, up to 45 days. This means that if things go wrong, tickets must be booked at least one and a half months in advance . Yes, you can go the same day to see if you can get tickets, but only do it if you like a gamble, we are rather sceptical.

Tower of Pisa visit duration: curiosities and things to know

Do you want to know the duration of the visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa ? Know that you have to show up at the agreed time, in fact show up at least 5 minutes earlier. Be on time... because the visit lasts only 30 minutes . This is no joke. We would like to inform you well, we found out that the visit lasts half an hour between the ascent and descent of the tower . That means 294 steps to climb in 30 minutes, a quick view and 294 steps to descend. Why is the visit so short? We asked ourselves that question. After all, if it takes you 10 minutes to climb 294 steps... and you don't take less time unless you're Spider-Man, and that 10 minutes or less to descend, you're left with 10 minutes to admire Pisa from above . Very little in my opinion. Time to take two photos and you have to come down again. I think the time is calculated this way because only 40 people at a time can go up the Leaning Tower and maybe they have decided to maximise the entries in those limited times. There is nothing wrong with the ticket being cheap. But rest assured that thanks to us you will be able to buy your ticket in advance and be ready for the experience. Practice climbing up and down the steps and enjoy the view , you will not be disappointed.

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Leaning Tower of Pisa

The guide to the world's most famous tower.

• Campo dei Miracoli
• Historical Facts
• Tourist Information
• Photo Gallery
• Hotels in Pisa

Tower of Pisa Tourist Information

Leaning Tower of Pisa is located in the city of Pisa, Italy. Pisa is a seaport in the Tuscany, a region situated in the western part of Italy.

Travel to Pisa

By plane → Pisa has an international airport, named Galileo Galilei with both intern and international routes.

Pisa is also close to the big cities of Italy, such as Florence (Firenze) and Lucca.

To the city center → From the Pisa airport you can take a train or a bus.

By bus → The bus gets you directly to Piazza dei Milacoli (The Square of Miracles) where the tower of Pisa is located.

It runs four times an hour, and a ticket costs 2 €

By train → The train runs twice an hour, and a ticket costs 1,10 €

Taxi → You also can take a cab, for around 10 -15 €.

Accommodation in Pisa, Italy:

Plan your visit: Looking for accommodation in Pisa? Follow this link to find the best deals – compare prices, check for availability and book your stay → Hotels in Pisa, Italy

Attractions in Pisa, Italy

Square of miracles.

Field of Miracles, The Dome and Baptistery

The main attraction in the city of Pisa, Italy is the Square of Miracles or Piazza dei Miracoli, with the remarkable leaning Tower, the Pisa Cathedral or Duomo di Pisa, and the Pisa Baptistery.

The Field of Miracles in Pisa is one of Italy’s and Europe’s most beautiful places. Next to the dome there lies the cathedral’s museum, and the cemetery (Camposanto)

Visit the Leaning Tower

Climbing to the top of the leaning tower of Pisa is a unique experience and it offers a very beautiful view of the town. The base ticket price is 18 € if bought on site.

Reservations are strongly advised if you want to guarantee your place in line to climb to the top of the Tower → Tickets are Limited to the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Opening Times:

November and February → the Tower of Pisa is open between 09,45 -17, 15 On November 1st, it is open 9,00-18,00

December and January: the Tower is open 10,00 – 17,00 From December 5-8, it is open 09,00 – 18,30 From December 21st to January 6th, it is open 10,00 – 19,00

In March → the Tower of Pisa has the following timetable: Until March 23rd, open 09,00 -18, 00 From March 23rd-29th, open between 09,00-19,00 From March 30th, the tower is open 08:30-20:00

April to September → the Tower has the following timetable: The Leaning Tower is open from 09,00 – 20,00 Between June 17th and August 31st, the Tower of Pisa is open 08,30 – 22,00. On June 16th, the tower is open 08,30 – 17,30

October → the Tower of Pisa is open between 09,00 – 19,00 (with some variations at the start and end of the month that overlap with September/November hours)

IMPORTANT : For safety reasons, children under 8 years old CANNOT climb up the Leaning Tower of Pisa. All children between 8 and 18 can climb the Tower with an accompanying adult. Children pay full price to climb the tower, there are no reductions available.

Tower of Pisa Map:

Bellow is the map of the Tower of Pisa, Campo dei Miracoli, Pisa, Italy. Get help with directions:

The 5 Best Leaning Tower of Pisa Tours From Florence [2024 Reviews]

The Leaning Tower of Pisa, often referred to as simply the Tower of Pisa has been made famous for its signature lean. In fact, the unstable foundation of the tower has caused a lean of almost 4 degrees. When referring to architecture, this is quite a bit.

While in the last 2 decades or so the lean has corrected itself by a few centimeters, this lean makes the Leaning Tower of Pisa one of the most popular Florence tours to nearby areas.

Looking for the top Leaning Tower of Pisa tours? These are our top 5 picks of day tours from Florence to the Tower of Pisa.

Best Tower of Pisa Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best rated leaning tower of pisa tours from florence.

• From Florence: Private Half-Day Pisa & the Leaning Tower
• From Florence: Pisa Day Tour with Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Pisa: Half-Day Afternoon Tour from Florence
• The Pisa Tower, Lucca & Wine Tour from Florence
• Leaning Tower of Pisa: Exclusive Half-Day Trip from Florence

Leaning Tower of Pisa Tours from Florence Reviews

#1 from florence: private half-day pisa & the leaning tower.

• Departure Point : Main Entrance of Piazza di Santa Maria Novella
• Departure Time : 9:00 AM
• Duration : 4 hours, 30 minutes (approx.)
• Includes : skip-the-line access Leaning Tower of Pisa tour, roundtrip Florence to Pisa tour, a private tour of Pisa with expert guide lasting approximately 2 hours

Over the course of 2 hours, your expert guide will take you through the Cathedral Square of Pisa. This not only includes access to the Leaning Tower of Pisa but also the baptistery, the cathedral, and the cemetery.

The Cathedral Square of Pisa is often referred to as Piazza dei Miracoli, or the Miracles Square, due to the miracle of the beautiful architecture here. The guide you meet upon arriving in Pisa will make sure you know exactly why it’s referred to as the Miracle Square.

Expand To See More See Less

After touring the baptistery, which is the largest in Europe, and learning more about the cathedral and the cemetery enclosed within the square, you will have skip-the-line access to the Leaning Tower if Pisa itself. This allows you to climb the steps all the way to the top where you will enjoy miraculous views of the city laid out before you.

How far is Pisa from Florence? It takes approximately 1 hour, 15 minutes to arrive in Pisa. This makes this tour an ideal option out of the many half-day tours from Florence. You can be back in Florence by lunchtime to enjoy other Florence tours as well.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, #2 from florence: pisa half-day trip with cathedral and tower entry.

• Departure Point : Piazzale Montelungo, hotel pickup on request
• Departure Time : 8:00 AM
• Duration : 5 hours (approx.)
• Includes : roundtrip travel by modern coach, an expert and multilingual guide, entry fees, skip-the-line Leaning Tower of Pisa tour

While hotel pickup is available if requested, meeting your driver at Piazzale Montelungo is fairly easy. It’s located near public transportation and the driver is easy to locate in a bright, fuchsia shirt. How far is Pisa from Florence? The drive will take approximately 1 hour, 15 minutes.

When you arrive at Pisa, you will meet your guide. They are an expert and multilingual so you can get the most out the time you spend visiting Pisa from Florence. In fact, you’ll be taken on guided tours of nearly every major location within the Piazza dei Miracoli, also known as the Square of Miracles, with it’s beautiful, white marble architecture and statues.

On your tour or Pisa, your guide will tell you the history of this city, dating back to Medieval times, as well as the historical facts and legendary stories surrounding this city. Learn about the Roman influence in Pisa, learn the importance of the largest baptistery in Europe, learn about who calls the Monumental Graveyard their resting place, and more.

The last stop will be the Leaning Tower of Pisa tour itself. Skip-the-line and head inside to climb up nearly 300 steps to reach the top of the tower for the beautiful views of the city below. Be sure to snap pictures of the outside before you head inside as you’ll be meeting your driver soon after exiting the tower.

#3 Pisa: Half-Day Afternoon Tour from Florence

• Departure Point : Piazzale Montelungo
• Departure Time : 1:30 PM
• Duration : 6 hours (approx.)
• Includes : roundtrip transportation by air-conditioned coach, licensed tour guide, earphones with larger groups, cathedral entry fees

Are you looking for Tower of Pisa tours from Florence that leave in the afternoon? If you’d rather take your time in the morning instead of rushing to get to the meeting points for the earlier half day tours from Florence, this Pisa tour is ideal.

On your travel through the Italian countryside on your way to Pisa, be sure to snap photos. Then, when you arrive in Pisa, your expert, licensed guide will take you on a walking tour throughout Piazza Dei Miracoli, also known as the Square of Miracles.

Your tour includes entrance to the Cathedral inside Miracle Square. Enjoy the unique art and architecture influenced by both this region of Italy and the Roman Empire. If the lines to enter this cathedral are longer, you may be offered a guided tour of Piazza dei Cavalieri instead. This cathedral was a center of political activity during the Middle Ages.

After you’ve toured the cathedral and learned more about the cemetery and baptistery also located in Pisa, you will have free time to explore the Square independently. Tours of other monuments are available for small entry fees or you can always dip into a few shops for some souvenirs. After your Florence to Pisa tour, you’ll return in the late evening to make your dinner plans.

#4 The Pisa Tower, Lucca & Wine Tour from Florence

• Departure Point : Hotel Pickup
• Duration : 9 Hours (approx.)
• Includes : pickup and drop off at local Florence hotels, travel by air-conditioned minivan with an expert guide, lunch, all entry fees, wine tasting

After being picked up at your Florence hotel to begin your Pisa tour, you’ll take an hour’s drive to Villa Maionchi. Located in Italy’s Tuscany region , it is the ideal place to stop for a visit. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of the vineyards and be offered some of their best wines to taste.

After your Tuscany wine tasting experience, you’ll head to the heart of Lucca, where the Renaissance still lives on in old walls, cobblestone streets, and other evidence of another time in history. Your guide will take you along these walls, telling you about their history, construction, and purpose.

Before leaving Lucca, you’ll enjoy a traditional, Tuscan lunch at Osteria Baralla. With delicious food and these guided tours, your experiences in Lucca will give you yet another way to enjoy your Pisa tour from Florence.

Finally, by mid-afternoon, you will arrive in Pisa. This is one of the most popular Florence day tours because you won’t just explore the tower itself, but also the cathedral and cemetery that are all a part of the Piazza dei Miracoli. Arrive back at your hotel around 6:30 PM, with plenty of time to make your dinner plans back in Florence.

#5 Leaning Tower of Pisa: Exclusive Half-Day Trip from Florence

• Duration : 5 to 6 hours (approx.)
• Includes : roundtrip transportation by air-conditioned coach, local guide, entry fees, time for independent exploration

When you arrive in Pisa, you will meet your local guide who will take you directly into the Square. It had been renamed as Piazza dei Miracoli when it became known as the “Field of Miracles” due to its beautiful architecture and statues made of bright, white marble.

The Square is home not just to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but also the largest baptistery in Europe and other monuments. While visiting Pisa from Florence, you will be taken on a guided tour of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, where you can take pictures from the top of the tower.

You’ll then had to the cathedral where you will learn more about the art and architectural features inside the ancient building. Your local guide may even be able to answer questions you have about the Roman influence in this cathedral.

Before heading back to Florence, you will have plenty of time to explore Pisa on your own. For an additional fee, you may also want to visit other monuments within the Square. You can also take advantage of photo ops or snag a few souvenirs in the shops.

Best Leaning Tower of Pisa Tours from Florence Guide

If you’re planning a vacation to Florence, Italy you should know what airport you’ll be flying into, the best accommodations available, what restaurants to stop by, and more. In this travel guide, we give you all the information you’ll need to get started planning your vacation. Have you been to Florence and want to suggest a tourist stop or restaurant? Comment below!

Airports & Entry

There is a small airport in Florence, the Florence Peretola. It was previously known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport. However, you will most likely fly into the Galileo Galilei International Airport in Pisa. This is a much larger airport so long-distance, foreign flights are most likely to land here.

Your passport will need to be valid for at least six months past your intended date of departure. If you’re planning on an extended stay, you can stay in Italy for up to 90 days without the need for a visa, so long as your passport is valid.

Planning Tips

Visiting Florence can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, it’s important to plan and prepare for your trip properly. Here, we have our top 5 tips for those planning a trip to Florence, Italy. Have you visited and have a tip of your own? Leave it in the comments down below!

Tip #1: Don’t be Afraid to Spit

When wine tasting in Italy, it is common for the taster to swish the wine around in their mouth to get the full profile of flavors, and then spit the wine out. This is so that you can taste many more wines without becoming intoxicated. It may feel a bit uncomfortable to spit out your drink in public, but it’s actually the cultural norm for this country.

Tip #2: Eat Light

You’ll find that even entrees featuring meat and pasta are smaller in portion size than what we see here in the US. Most of the time, meals consist of lighter fare including crostini, cured meat, and cheeses. Do not be surprised at the smaller portions of heavy meals and the abundance of lighter snacks.

Tip #3: Explore Florence on Foot

Not only is walking the preferred method of getting around in Florence, but it is also the easiest. While you may be walking with many other tourists, walking allows you to see more of the city. It may even take longer to wait for a taxi or bus than it would to walk to your destination. You will also most likely be walking at many of the attractions. Be sure to bring a pair or two of comfortable walking shoes.

Tip #4: Prioritize Your List

It would take months, if not years, to visit and explore every museum, gallery, eatery, and other important location within the city of Florence. Be sure to prioritize the list of places you’d like to see based on the length of time you’re spending here. Many of the attractions have estimated wait times based on the time of year and time of day you are visiting. This makes it easier to plan out your sightseeing.

Tip #5: Take Those 500 Steps

The Cathedral in Florence, called the Duomo, is the 4th-largest cathedral in the world. It took nearly 2 centuries to complete. Be sure to save at least one day to explore it. If you’d like to reach the highest point in Florence by hiking the 463 steps to the cathedral’s cupola, you’ll need to make a reservation. However, you won’t be disappointed.

Tip #6: Explore The Surrounding Cities

Venice is only a few hours northeast of Florence. This famous beautiful city is a must see! You must see the incomparable St Mark’s Basilica and take a gondola ride though its canals. There is so much to see and do there it needs to be on your list of places to see.

Restaurants & Eating Out

It seems even the food vendors at every corner and in front of every attraction have some of the best food available. These vendors also make it very quick to grab a bite to eat while on your way from one destination to another.

If you’re looking for some of the best gelato in Florence, you want to check out Carapina. The flavors of gelato available will change based on the season, and the number of choices is limited on purpose, but if you’ve ever thought of trying gelato with either olive oil or parmesan, this is the place.

The Borgo san Jacopo is one of the most exclusive restaurants in Florence. There are just four tables on a small terrace, but this terrace offers breathtaking views of the Ponte Vecchio. The star chef, Peter Brunel, offers mouthwatering entrées. Save room for the purple potato sorbet with various toppings, including gold leaf, for dessert.

A popular stop for many tourists is La Menagere. La Menagere is home to both a café and cocktail bar, but you’ll also find beautiful bouquets in the flower shop as well as quality Italian homeware in the store. Dinner entrées can include everything from spaghetti with squid to beef with pears.

Nightlife & Entertainment

While it’s common to stop for a cocktail in the evening before turning in, nightlife in Florence is relatively calm. In fact, one of their most popular bars offers cappuccino and pastries in the morning, a light lunch in the afternoon, and a buffet dinner as well as cocktails in the evening. This bar, known as Caffe degli Artigiani, is in the center of the artisan district.

The La Casa del Vino is a popular wine bar near the center of town. If you’re looking to try some of the top wines in the area of Tuscany or even find some less common wines from all over the country, you’ll want to stop by. To go with the extensive wine list, there is a menu of light snacks that includes meats, cheeses, crostini, and salads.

Getting Around

Getting around by car in the city of Florence is nearly impossible. Much of the city is off-limits to drivers. Of those streets that are drivable, many are narrow and might even be one-way. If traveling by car is necessary, you’ll want to take a taxi. However, taxis are quite expensive.

The best way to get around Florence is on foot. In fact, it’s possible to walk from one side of the city to the other in less than an hour. If your feet are getting tired or you have a longer distance to travel, a bus system is available. You can find tickets at local convenience stores.

Accommodations

If the city of Florence had a theme, it would be luxury. From the historical sites to the most modern hotels, from street food vendors to well-known eateries, Florence is the epitome of luxury. If you’d like to experience that firsthand, be sure to research your accommodations. If you’re familiar with the Four Seasons brand, you may know what to expect from the Four Seasons Florence.

However, Florence is home to some very unique accommodations as well. The Palazzo Vecchietti features just 12 bedrooms and suites along with two apartments. Each is named after famous Italian artists. This 16th-century Palazzo has been turned into a luxury bed-and-breakfast of sorts, with meals being served in a common area on the top floor. A luxury Florence hotel with more of a retro feel is the Continentale. Weather

You may want to avoid July and August when planning a trip to Florence. January is usually the coldest month with temperatures in the low 40s, Fahrenheit. While the average temperature in July is in the mid-70s Fahrenheit, the humidity can make it feel unbearably warm. The best times to travel to Florence are in the spring and fall. Attractions

You’ll find the attractions in Florence mostly based on the history and food of the region. While the Statue of David is arguably one of the most popular sights to see in Florence, getting in to see Michelangelo’s famous artwork can take some time. Lines are usually very long, but it’s worth it.

You may also want to stop at Piazzale Michelangiolo , a terrace overlooking the city. The skyline of Florence seen from this terrace is the same often seen on postcards. Late afternoon or early evening are ideal times to visit as the crowds have died down.

There is no shortage of museums to visit while in Florence. Gucci Museo, or the Gucci Museum, is quite fun and a bit different than most other museums in the area. An archeological museum, the Museo Archeologico, features much of the regional history prior to the Medicis.

The Galleria dell’ Accademia is home to the Statue of David and other popular exhibits such as several Stradivarius violins and famous paintings. Be sure to see the Uffuzi Gallery as well to see the Renaissance period masterpieces.

Enjoying the Wine That Makes Florence Famous

While one of the most popular tourist activities in Florence is wine tasting, be sure not to miss out on the beauty and history of the city itself. Florence may be a small city compared to some, but the experiences had during even a short vacation here will last a lifetime.

If you’re headed to Florence, what are you looking forward to the most? Let us know!

Professional Services

We chose the Pisa Tower, Lucca & Wine Tour from Florence as our Editor's Choice for a tour that originated in Florence and visits the Leaning Tower.

Krysha Thayer

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Plan your Visit to Pisa's Leaning Tower Today

Book your tickets for the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Advance

It’s not just a case of avoiding the lines when you buy your tickets online - the fact is that there is only a limited number of tickets available for each day, divided by every half hour. This means you risk showing up, waiting in line to get tickets and still not being to climb the steps to the very top of this incredible UNESCO World Heritage monument in Pisa . The construction on the Leaning Tower of Pisa started in 1173 and lasted for almost 200 years but the tilt was evident almost from the beginning!

Even today, after many successful and unsuccessful attempts to compensate for the tilt, the bell tower to the Cathedral of Pisa still tantalizes its admirers worldwide with its 8 stories of white and gray marble. It is a monument that is definitely worth a visit not only for the unique tilt but for its grace and beauty of the tower and admiring the Square of Miracles from above.

Book your Tower of Pisa tickets

Want to Climb The Leaning Tower of Pisa?

Buy your tickets and reserve your place in line.

Your visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and climb to the very top is a matter of being prepared. Due to the limited number of tickets available daily, it is necessary to reserve your spot in line. When you book your tickets online, you select a date and time and a confirmation email will be sent to you. Once you arrive in Pisa, you can pick-up your reserved tickets and skip the long lines and possible disappointment of not finding any spots left. Your ticket to the tower also guarantees you entry into the Cathedral with its immense wealth of artwork, sculptures and paintings. The entrance to the church is free however you still need to get a ticket to enter: when you reserve your ticket online for the Leaning Tower of Pisa you automatically get your ticket for the church without waiting in another line.

The climb up the tower is extremely exhilarating for kids and adults alike making it perfect for families ! Just note that for security reasons, kids under 8 are NOT allowed to climb the tower. So please plan your time in Pisa and climb up the tower accordingly.

Reserve your Place in Line

Visit The Square of Miracles

A collection of beauty and elegance.

Though mainly known for the Leaning Tower, the Square of Miracles contains several of the more famous monuments in Pisa. Fortunately they are all located in one place, creating an unforgettable skyline of marble, stone, arches and peaks. Pisa's political scene in the early years played a significant role in the construction of these immense structures, the final result is stunning to behold.

• The Baptistery , the largest baptistery in all of Italy, shares the same fame as the tower since it too leans! The tilt is less noticeable but look at the ground around it.
• The Cathedral , started over a 100 years before the bell tower is a prime example of Pisan Romanesque style of architecture
• The Camposanto Monumentale , though devastated in World War II has been rebuilt to match its original splendor
• The Sinopie Museum preserves the beauty of the images that once covered the walls of the Camposanto
• The Leaning Tower of Pisa , the famous bell tower to the impressive Cathedral of Pisa

If you're interested in learning more about the city beyond the tower, immersing yourself in what life must have been in the Pisa of the past, we recommend you take advantage of the many walking tours that will take you to other of the main sights in Pisa. Many of them include the climb up the tower , so check them out before booking just tickets!!

Book a Walking Tour of Pisa

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Author: Lourdes Flores

I'm from California but have called Florence my home for over a decade. I love to explore Italy; it is a lot of fun to try to see everything like I'm seeing it for the first time, keeping you, our readers, always in mind. I enjoy sharing what I know and helping others as they make their travel plans for Tuscany through our Forum . If you have itinerary-related questions, please post them there!

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Our Travel Guides

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Pisa: More Than Just the Leaning Tower

Pisa, a charming city nestled in Tuscany, Italy, is renowned worldwide for its iconic Leaning Tower. However, this historic city offers much more than just a tilted bell tower. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, Pisa is a captivating destination for travelers of all ages.

A Brief History of Pisa

Pisa’s history dates back to ancient Roman times when it was a thriving port city. During the Middle Ages, Pisa became a powerful maritime republic, rivaling Genoa and Venice. The city’s wealth and influence peaked in the 11th and 12th centuries, a period marked by significant architectural achievements, including the construction of the Leaning Tower.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa, undoubtedly the city’s most famous landmark, is a bell tower that began construction in 1173. The tower’s distinctive tilt is the result of a foundation that was built on soft ground. Despite the tilt, the tower has remained structurally sound and continues to attract millions of visitors each year.

Other Notable Attractions

Piazza del Duomo: This beautiful square is home to the Leaning Tower, as well as the Duomo (cathedral) and the Baptistery. The square is a popular meeting spot for both residents and tourists.

Duomo di Pisa: The Duomo di Pisa is a magnificent Romanesque cathedral with a stunning interior adorned with mosaics and frescoes.

Camposanto: This cemetery, located adjacent to the Duomo, is a peaceful oasis filled with ancient sarcophagi and sculptures.

Botanic Garden of Pisa: The Botanic Garden of Pisa is a beautiful botanical garden with a collection of over 3,000 plant species.

Museo Nazionale di San Matteo: This museum houses a collection of Etruscan, Roman, and medieval artifacts.

Pisa’s Cultural Scene

Pisa is a vibrant city with a thriving cultural scene. There are several museums , galleries, and theatres to visit. The city also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and exhibitions.

Pisa’s Cuisine

Pisan cuisine is known for its simplicity and use of fresh, local ingredients. Some of the city’s most famous meals are:

Tortelli alla pisana: A type of stuffed pasta filled with spinach and ricotta cheese.

Crostata di lamponi: A delicious raspberry tart.

Buccatini all’amatriciana: A pasta dish with tomato sauce, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and pecorino cheese.

Exploring Pisa

Pisa is a relatively small city, making it easy to explore on foot. However, there are also buses and taxis available for those who prefer to use public transportation. The city is also well-connected to other Tuscan cities by train.

Best Time to Visit Pisa

The best time to visit Pisa is during the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, Pisa is a beautiful city to visit any time of year.

What is Pisa known for?

Pisa is best known for its iconic architectural marvel, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. This freestanding bell tower, part of the cathedral of the Italian city of Pisa, is famous worldwide for its unintended tilt. The city’s rich history also includes other notable landmarks such as the Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery of St. John, which, along with the tower, form part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles). Pisa is also known for its prestigious University of Pisa, which has a long tradition of academic excellence and notable alumni.

What is the history of the Leaning Tower of Pisa?

The Leaning Tower of Pisa was constructed over 199 years, beginning in 1173. The tilt began during construction due to the soft ground on one side, which couldn’t support the structure’s weight. The tower is built of white and grey marble and was originally intended as a freestanding bell tower for the nearby cathedral. The tilt was partially corrected in subsequent centuries through various stabilization efforts. The tower has been stabilized and is now safe for visitors, though it continues to be a major architectural and engineering wonder.

How can I visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa?

Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa requires purchasing tickets in advance. The tickets allow you to climb the tower and enjoy the unique experience of standing at an angle. Here’s a general guide to visiting:

Booking Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online through official websites or at the ticket office on-site. It is suggested that you book in advance, especially during busy tourist seasons.

Opening Hours: The tower is typically open daily, though hours can vary. It is advisable to check the official website for current hours and any maintenance closures.

Climbing the Tower: The climb involves 294 steps and can be physically demanding. It’s important to follow safety guidelines and adhere to scheduled entry times to ensure a smooth visit.

What other attractions are there in Pisa besides the Leaning Tower?

Besides the Leaning Tower, Pisa boasts several other attractions:

Pisa Cathedral: A stunning example of Romanesque architecture, renowned for its ornate façade and interior.

Baptistery of St. John: Known for its acoustics and unique architecture, it’s the largest baptistery in Italy.

Camposanto Monumentale: A monumental cemetery that houses a collection of ancient Roman and medieval sarcophagi.

University of Pisa: One of the oldest universities in Europe, with a beautiful historic campus and several museums, including the Museum of the History of Science.

Palazzo della Carovana: An impressive palace that houses the Scuola Normale Superiore, a prestigious research university.

What is the best time to visit Pisa?

The best time to visit Pisa is typically during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these periods, the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months. Summer (July and August) can be very hot and crowded, while winter (November to March) is cooler and quieter but may also bring rain and occasional closures for maintenance.

How do I get to Pisa?

Pisa is well-connected and can be accessed in several ways:

By Air: Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport) is the main airport serving the city, with flights from major European cities.

By Train: Pisa is connected to other major Italian cities via a well-served railway network. The Pisa Centrale railway station is the main station, with connections to Florence, Rome, and other destinations.

By Car: Pisa is accessible by car via the A12 and A11 highways, and there are parking facilities available near the city center.

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• Tower of Pisa

Leaning Tower of Pisa tickets and tours

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• Highest price

Pisa Leaning Tower and Cathedral entrance tickets

Book your tickets for the Tower of Pisa, choose the option that best suits your needs and visit one of the most famous monuments in the world!

Leaning Tower, Cathedral, Cemetery, Baptistery and Sinopie Museum entrance tickets

Buy this combined ticket and visit the Tower of Pisa with the Baptistery, the Cemetery, the Sinopie Museum and the Opera del Duomo Museum.

Pisa Guided Tour with Wine Tasting and Optional Leaning Tower Tickets

Discover the famous Square of Miracles and get to the top of the Leaning Tower. At the end of the tour enjoy a wine tasting with a local expert!

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Pisa audio guide with TravelMate app

Make the most of your time in Pisa with this TravelMate app on your mobile device. Discover the city's highlights and curiosities that will surprise you.

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2-hour guided walking tour of Pisa

Admire the famous Leaning Tower, stroll around Galileo's neighborhood and admire the medieval Piazza dei Cavalieri.

Pisa and Lucca tour with Buccellato tasting

Discover the beauties of Pisa and Lucca, taste Buccellato, a typical and rare Lucchese cake.

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Baptistery, Cathedral and Optional Leaning Tower Guided Tour

Discover the Miracle Square, Cathedral and Baptistery in Pisa with a local guide. Get advantage of the optional skip-the-line tickets to the Leaning Tower.

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Pisa guided tour with optional Leaning Tower from Florence

Book this Pisa tour from Florence to discover the Square of Miracles with a guide: visit the Cathedral and skip the line to climb up the Leaning Tower.

Best of Pisa guided visit with Leaning Tower skip-the-line tickets

Book your guided tour of Pisa with skip-the-line ticket to the Leaning Tower. Admire the beautiful Square of Miracles and visit the Cathedral.

Pisa guided tour with Leaning Tower and entrance to the Cathedral

Learn about Pisa's culture and history, walk along the medieval streets and climb the Leaning Tower.

Round-trip excursion from Florence to Pisa

Enjoy this excursion to Pisa from Florence. Easily reach the city of the Leaning Tower and explore on your own or with a professional guide.

Square of Miracles Guided Tour with Optional Leaning Tower Tickets

Book your tickets to visit Piazza dei Miracoli with a local guide and climb the Leaning Tower with skip-the-line entrance.

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Pisa guided walking tour

Enjoy a guided tour of Pisa and Piazza dei Miracoli. Visit of the Cathedral and be enthralled by the Leaning Tower.

Afternoon excursion to Pisa with Leaning Tower and Cathedral tickets from Florence

Book your excursion to Pisa with Leaning Tower and Cathedral tickets from Florence. Live the amazing experience of climbing the world's most famous tower!

Pisa and Chianti small-group tour from Florence

Experience the best of Tuscany in a day: visit the Square of Miracles and the Leaning Tower in the morning and 2 Chianti wineries in the afternoon.

Pisa, San Gimignano, Siena and Chianti day trip with lunch

Buy your Pisa, San Gimignano, Siena and Chianti tour with typical lunch from Florence. Explore the best of Tuscany in one day!

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Florence and Pisa shore excursion from Livorno

Book a roundtrip transfer with an easy and comfortable coach service from Livorno to Florence and Pisa. Discover two impressive Tuscan cities in just one day.

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Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti tour with lunch

Book your Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti tour with lunch at a local winery. Discover the most renowned Tuscan towns in just one day!

Dining experience at a local's home in Pisa with cooking demo

Enjoy a cooking show at a Cesarina's home in Pisa and discover authentic traditional recipes!

Pisa private walking tour

Explore Pisa with a guide and get to know everything about the city of the Leaning Tower. See Piazza del Duomo, the neighborhoods of Sant'Antonio and San Martino and much more.

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Cooking class and tasting at a Cesarina's home in Pisa

Immerse yourself in a private cooking class at the Cesarina's home and learn the secrets of the most famous dishes of Pisa cuisine.

The inside story

Why does the tower lean? The Romanesque 183ft (56m) campanile, was begun in 1170 but started leaning immediately due to the porous clay soil beneath it.

Building diagonal floors to offset the lean was attempted in 1272, but didn’t help. In 1372, the tower was leaning 4.5ft (1.4m). By 1993, it was 17ft (5.4m) and the tower was closed for ten years amid fears it might fall. But by 2013, it had started to lean slightly back in the opposite direction. What was happening?

Major engineering work had drained the water beneath, reinforced the foundations with concrete pillars, and bound the tower with steel cables. It worked. The tower reverted to the leaning angle of 300 years previously.

Some engineers believe it is possible to straighten the tower completely, but nobody wants that. Current predictions are that it will continue to straighten, stop, and then begin to lean again, but much more slowly than in previous centuries. The people of Pisa are happy. Three million tickets are sold each year to visit a leaning tower – not a straight one.

Opening times

9.45am-5.15pm November and February (1 November 9.00am-6.00pm)

10.00am-5.00pm December and January (5-8 December: 9.00am-6.30pm) (21 December - 6 January 10.00am-7.00pm)

9.00am-6.00pm until 23 March (9.00am-7.00pm 23-29 March) (8.30am-8.00pm from 30 March)

9.00am-8.00pm April to September 8.30am-10.00pm 17 June to 31 August (16 June: 8.30am-5.30pm)

9.30am-7.00pm October

About the Leaning Tower

Few people initially realize that the tower is part of a much larger complex at the Square of Miracles. Here, you’ll also find the Cathedral of Pisa (the Duomo), the baptistery and the monumental cemetery – all in the Romanesque style.

Construction began in 1173 and was completed in 1399 under the guidance of various architects. Alas, these guys didn’t know their Greek very well. The name ‘Pisa’ comes from a Greek word meaning ‘marshland’ – not the kind of foundation you’d want for any tall building. Indeed, the baptistery and the cathedral are also sinking into the ground.

The other sights of the Piazza dei Miracoli are also historically very interesting and worth a visit. For example, the cemetery is made of no normal earth. It was created using 53 shiploads of holy earth taken from the hill of Calvary in Jerusalem so that the dead could enjoy some quality rest. Galileo was baptized in the baptistery here and spent some time throwing things off the tower when he got older. One of his experiments involved dropping two cannonballs of different weights to show that they fell at the same speed.

People forget that the tower’s main function was as a campanile: a bell tower. Accordingly, it has seven bells – one for each note of the musical scale. They have their own names: Assunta (the biggest), Crocifisso, San Ranieri, Dal Pozzo, Pasquereccia, Terza, and Vespruccio. They are still used to ring before masses and at midday each day. Try to time your visit to see (hear) the tower doing its stuff.

Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy

Getting there

Lines 3, 4 and Shuttle A from Pisa Centrale to the Tower

From train station entrance and across the city

From Pisa Centrale’s main entrance towards Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, turn onto Via Crispi to Ponte Solferino. Cross the bridge and continue until Via Roma, then along Via Roma to Piazza dei Miracoli and the Leaning Tower

From San Rossore train station, take the subway and get off at Piazza Fancelli. Walk to Via Andrea Pisano, turn left and continue until you reach the Piazza dei Miracoli

How to get there