Guide to Pisa in Russian. The city of Pisa and its main attractions with descriptions and photos

The city that all tourists rush to visit, primarily because of its famous Leaning Tower, is the city of Pisa. Pisa is a small Italian town in the Tuscany region with about 100,000 inhabitants. Despite its small number, it boasts a rich and interesting chronicle of events, as well as world-famous buildings that you should definitely see and places that you should definitely visit.

leaning tower of pisa

Embankment of the river Arno

From that what to visit in Pisa, all tourists tend to visit the famous Leaning Tower, which has become a symbol of the city for many years.

leaning tower of pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa (Torre pendente di Pisa) is a campanilla (bell tower), about 60 meters high (to be precise 57 m) located on the "Square of Miracles". And it would be just a tower, if not for its world-famous slope, thanks to which for many years it has been the center of public attention. By the way, after its restoration (since 2001), the Leaning Tower of Pisa is open to the public. Climbing 294 steps will cost you 15 euros in fear of collapsing along with the tower.

leaning tower of pisa

But let's not forget that the Leaning Tower of Pisa is only part of the ensemble of those beautiful buildings located on the "Square of Miracles" in Pisa. In general, the “Square of Miracles” (or Piazza dei Miracoli) is a famous example of medieval architecture in Italy, a huge walled square in the old part of the city, which includes 3 more famous buildings, in addition to the Leaning Tower: Pisa Cathedral Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta , the Baptistery of San Giovanni and the monumental cemetery of Campo Santo.

Square of Miracles

Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistery of San Giovanni) - "baptismal", built to the glory of St. John, the largest religious attraction in Pisa, the greatest creation of Italy in the Romanesque-Gothic style. The Baptistery, like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, is located on the "Square of Miracles" and, because. is on soft ground, like its "neighbor" has a slope, but it is almost invisible to the human eye. The Baptistery of San Giovanni is also famous for its frescoes, including works by Benozzo Gozzoli and 2 works by an unknown author, one of which tells of the plague of 1348. But the sight of foreigners is also attracted by a bronze sculpture in honor of John the Baptist, in the central part of the font.

Baptistery of San Giovanni

Inside the Baptistery of San Giovanni

Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta) is the Cathedral of Pisa, built in honor of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is part of the ensemble "Square of Miracles". The construction of the cathedral began in 1063 under the direction of the architect Busceto di Giovanni Giudice. But the Pisa Cathedral has undergone many changes, such as the fire of 1595, as a result of which a mosaic depicting Christ with the upcoming Virgin and John the Evangelist, and a pulpit, a sculpture made by Giovanni Pisano, have come down to us.

pisa cathedral

Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta

Campo Santo monumentale is a monumental cemetery and museum located in the northern part of the "Square of Miracles". It is curious, but initially, this building was conceived as a church dedicated to the Holy Trinity, but during the construction of the structure, the project underwent changes. Construction began in 1278 by the architect Giovanni di Simon and continued until 1464. It is a pity, but you will not be able to enjoy the beauty, those works of art that previously adorned the cemetery before World War II, because it was because of it that it suffered, only a few works and frescoes survived. But still, you will not regret if you see those remaining works of art.

The Campo Santo monumentale

It should be noted that the "Square of Miracles" in Pisa, with its ensemble of 4 buildings, at the end of December 1986 was included in the list world heritage UNESCO.

Piazza dei Miracoli

More from that what to visit in Pisa, is the second largest square of the city, after the "Square of Miracles", Piazza dei Cavalieri (Piazza Dei Cavalieri) - the famous "Square of the Knights", located a few steps from the "Square of Miracles". It was erected on the site of the former ancient forum and rebuilt by the architect Giorgio Visari. Earlier, or rather in the Middle Ages, the square was the political center of the city, but it was Giorgio Visari who transformed it, surrounding it with palaces and churches, such as the Palazzo della Carovana, the Clock Palace (Palazzo Orologio), the church - Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri and the church of Sant Sixtus.

Knights Square

The first thing that attracts the eyes of tourists to Piazza dei Cavalieri, this is the Palazzo dei Carovana (Palace of the Convoy), which once belonged to the knightly order of St. Stephen. The magnificent facade of the Palazzo dei Carovana is decorated with huge sgrafitto - drawings that imitate the architectural elements of the decor, as well as statues of the Tuscan dukes. Opposite the palace, in the central part of the square, there is a majestic statue of Cosimo I de Medici, owned by the sculptor Pietro Francavilla. On the this moment, the palace is the residence of the city's Higher Normal School of Pisa, organized in 1810 by Napoleon.

Convoy Palace

Statue of Cosimo I Medici

At the corner of the square is the Palace of the Clock (Palazzo Orologio). The palace has an irregular shape and is a polygon, thanks to Vasari's innovative solution, which connected two residential towers: Gwalandi (on the right) and the Tower of Justice (on the left). At the moment, the Palace houses the Library of the Higher School.

clock palace

Particularly noteworthy is the miniature church of Sant Sixtus (one of the best examples of early Romanesque architecture in Europe), as well as the church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri (Church of the Order of the Knights of St. Stephen), founded in the 16th century, under the guidance of the same famous Vasari, with the purpose of protecting against pirate raids in the maritime space. The interior of the church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri is richly decorated with paintings from the 17th century, the ceiling is decorated with paintings by Tuscan masters. Central location The facade is decorated with a massive coat of arms of the Medici and the coat of arms of the Order of St. Stephen. The basilica keeps many military trophies, the banners of the knights of this order.

Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri

Church of Sant Sixtus

Talking about what to visit in Pisa, one cannot fail to mention the embankment of the Arno River, which will make an indelible impression on you. Here you can enjoy the beauty of unique buildings like the XV century Agostini Palace, the XVI century Upezzingi Palace, the XVIII century Madonna dei Galetti Church and others.

Embankment of the river Arno

Agostini Palace

Church of the Madonna del Galetti

In general, the city of Pisa is rich in many majestic churches and churches that are definitely worth a visit, for example, the pearl of the late Gothic church of Santa Maria della Spina, the entire embankment of which is decorated with precious marble lace jewelry, aedicules and spiers.

Church of Santa Maria della Spina

Or the Basilica of San Piero a Grado, on the left bank of the river. Arno, dating from the 11th century. In its western part, you can see the remains of an early Christian church.

Basilica of San Piero a Grado

Also, special attention should be paid to the Palace of the University, which is also called the Palace of Wisdom (Palazzo della Sapienz). It is one of the most prestigious not only in Italy, but throughout the world.

University Palace

From the museums what to visit in Pisa, the most significant are: the Duomo Museum, the Sinopia Museum and the most famous in the whole world National Museum San Matteo.

Exhibit of the Duomo Museum. Pisa

Museum of San Matteo

Exhibit at the National Museum of San Matteo

Sinopia Museum

If you are hungry, then do not rush to visit the restaurants in the area of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in the first place, because. how it is very expensive, and some will feed you tasteless, according to many tourists after comparison with other cafes and restaurants.

You will dine well at Osteria di Culegna, La Mescita, La Stanzina, Vineria di Piazza, with a good selection of wine and national cuisine, Via del Monte, where there is amazing focaccia and pizza.

Osteria di Culegna

Vineria di Piazza

But if you decide to go to restaurants or cafes on the Square of Miracles, then pay attention to Salza on Borgo Stretto or Kinzica pizzeria.

As for where to stay, Pisa offers a wide range of hotels and inns, which are mostly 3-star. The most famous and frequently visited are:

Hotel Verdi, with 30 comfortable rooms. The price for the rooms is acceptable: for a day you will have to pay from 45 €.

The Hotel Ariston will offer you 31 comfortable rooms, and the hotel also allows pets. A room per day will cost more than 60 €.

In Pisa you can also find a number of excellent 4 and 5 star hotels, among which is the 4 star My One Hotel Galilei, offering 153 comfortable rooms, each of which meets the high standards of a first class hotel. A day will cost you over 70€.

My One Hotel Galilei

You won't regret staying at the Abitalia Tower Plaza Hotel, which offers you 82 luxurious rooms that meet the standards of comfort, as well as the latest technology. A day in such a luxurious hotel will cost more than 120 €.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa, also known as the Leaning Tower, is a grandiose mistake of the builders, which, contrary to logic, has become one of the symbols of Italy and has become famous all over the world. It was built in two stages, for almost two centuries. Already during the construction process, it became clear that the tower was acquiring an unnatural slope, but, nevertheless, by 1360 it was completely completed. Since then, and to this day, work is constantly underway to strengthen the tower. But all efforts remain in vain - the tower continues to deviate from the vertical at a rate of 1.2 mm per year.

One day, the Leaning Tower of Pisa will fall, and until then, tourists will make pilgrimages to this Wonder of the World, whose floors are bordered by elegant decorative arcades, and a ringing bell ringing is heard from the top.

pisa cathedral

The construction of the Pisa Cathedral began in 1063, and the main concept of construction was

an organic combination of elements of various architectural styles, including even Islamic ones. Such eclecticism was supposed to emphasize the scope of Pisan trade, which at that time was experiencing its tangible rise.

The architect Busceto di Giovanni Giudice took over the task, striving to surpass his competitors from Venice, who built St. Mark's Basilica.

The year of completion of construction is considered to be 1118, when the Cathedral was consecrated by Pope Gelasius II.

The appearance of the cathedral over time has undergone a number of changes associated with the need for restoration of the building. The interior of the Pisa Cathedral strikes the imagination not only in volume, but also in the beauty of the scenery. The decoration is dominated by black and white marble, and the ceiling is decorated with frescoes from the Middle Ages. Despite the fact that most tourists come here thanks to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, soon their attention switches to the unique beauty of the cathedral.

What sights of Pisa did you like? There are icons next to the photo, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.

Church of Santa Maria della Spina

The Church of Santa Maria della Spina is one of the main attractions of Pisa. The Gothic church, built in the Middle Ages on the banks of the Arno River, has become a monument of European Gothic, showing the most striking signs of this architectural style.

The Church of Santa Maria della Spina was built on the sandy bank of the river in 1230.

The facade of the building is made of multi-colored marble, and the niches are decorated with sculptural images of Christ, the Virgin Mary and angels. The right side of the temple is literally carved with floral ornaments, numerous niches and turrets. The statues for the temple were made by several generations of Pisan masters, including the forerunners of the Italian Renaissance Giovanni di Balduccio and Nicolo Pisano - perhaps the most prominent representative of Pisan art.

The name of the church comes from the word "spina", which means "thorn". Since the 14th century, this small church has kept one of the main shrines of Italy - a thorn from the crown of thorns of Christ.

The monument to Giuseppe Garibaldi was erected in Pisa in a small square adjacent to the embankment of the Arno River.

The bronze Garibaldi, cast at the end of the 19th century according to the project of the Pisan sculptor Ettore Ferrari, looks thoughtfully at the city and its inhabitants.

The monument was erected on the tenth anniversary of the death of the national hero of Italy, in 1892. At this time, monuments dedicated to the leader of popular resistance were erected in various cities of Italy.

A small bronze monument was erected in Pisa. The sculptural image of the hero is laconic - Garibaldi, dressed in a simple militia costume, peers into the distance.

The figure of Giuseppe Garibaldi is set on a stone pedestal, decorated with bas-reliefs with figures of soldiers and laurel wreaths. The inscription on the pedestal is laconic: "Pisa - Garibaldi".

The monument completes the architectural ensemble of the square named after Garibaldi and is a good example of combining 19th-century sculpture and medieval urban architecture.

Leaning Embankment Arno

Pisa's Arno embankment is the heart of the ancient city.

The Arno River, known for its turbulent nature and repeatedly flooding both Pisa and neighboring Florence, was tamed and chained into a sandstone and red brick embankment. Their combination creates an amazing atmosphere of the Middle Ages, so characteristic of Pisa.

Numerous palaces and temples were built in the Middle Ages along the river, which was the center of the life of the city, which won its wealth thanks to maritime trade. Palazzo Gambacorti, located on the north bank of the Arno, today has become the focus of the administrative life of the city - the prefecture is located here. Nearby are the buildings of the University of Pisa and its library.

Pisa is a city in Italy, located in the region of Tuscany, at a distance of ten kilometers from Ligurian Sea. The symbol of the city is the Leaning Tower, which has the status of a World Heritage Site. In fact, in Pisa you can see many famous and worthy sights, each of which surprises rich history and impeccable architectural design.

In addition, the history of Pisa began successfully in the 9th century BC, when the Etruscans lived on the lands. Various interesting sights have survived to this day, each of which can surprise with its architectural splendor.

So, in Pisa you can see the following attractions:

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a landmark that appeared due to a serious mistake during construction activities. The construction was carried out in two stages, as a result of which it took almost two centuries.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa appeared in 1360, after which regular work began to strengthen the facility. Despite the efforts of architects and builders, the Leaning Tower of Pisa still deviates from its natural position at a rate of 1.2 millimeters per year. Until the Leaning Tower of Pisa falls, tourists will enjoy the local attraction.

Location: Piazza del Duomo, 56126.

The Field of Miracles (Piazza dei Miracoli) is a walled square. There are four attractions here:

Cathedral.
Baptistery.
Bell tower.
Cemetery.

The Field of Miracles was inscribed on the official UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987.

The construction of the Pisa Cathedral started in 1063. From the very beginning, there was a desire for an organic combination of details of different architectural styles. Moreover, even Islamic features were used. Such eclecticism was supposed to emphasize the scope of trading activity in Pisa.

Pisa Cathedral was consecrated in 1118 by the Pope Gelasius II. Subsequently, numerous restorations were carried out, after each of which it was possible to find certain changes.

Location: Piazza del Duomo - 56126.

The Baptistery is one of the most famous sights in Pisa. The cult object is located on the central square and is included in the architectural ensemble of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The baptistery is designed specifically for the sacrament of baptism. Moreover, the tradition has existed since the distant 1363. It took more than 200 years for construction activities, as a result of which the building was influenced by different architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic.

The Baptistery in Pisa is the largest of its kind in all of Italy.

The monument depicts a she-wolf approximately life-size. At the same time, the she-wolf feeds the milk of two children. The monument has existed since the 5th century BC, and it is an illustration of the mythological story of how the she-wolf fed Remus and Romulus. The Capitoline Wolf is one of the most famous symbols of all of Italy.

Location: Piazza del Campidoglio - 1.

The Arno embankment is one of the most attractive places to walk around Pisa.

The Arno River has a turbulent and dangerous character. To tame it, it was necessary to create an embankment of red brick and sandstone. This combination immediately emphasizes the real spirit of medieval Pisa.

While walking along the embankment, you can see a knight's fortress with loopholes and fortified walls, small churches.

The walls of Pisa were formerly the walls of the Republic. To date, the wall has been preserved in very good condition, despite the fact that the construction of the object started in 1155. In different eras, two systems of military fences were added to the existing wall. Towers were erected every three hundred meters.

The second largest square in Pisa, located in the historic center of the city, is Piazza Dei Cavalieri. Palaces, the Church of St. Stephen, the Higher School of Pisa are located here. The features of the architectural ensemble make it possible to understand how great the influence of medieval architecture is.

Location: Piazza dei Cavalieri.

On Duomo Square there are sights that influenced the monumental art of Italy in the 11th - 14th centuries.

In the central part is the Cathedral of the Ascension of the Virgin, which is a reflection of the Islamic, Romanesque, Byzantine styles. Decor includes mosaics, polychrome marble, bronze relief images.

In addition, here you can see the baptistery, the bell tower, the Campo Santo cemetery. Each object is closely associated with medieval architecture.

Location: Piazza del Duomo - 56010 Pisa PI.

On the banks of the Arno River is the Church of Santa Maria della Spina, built according to the best principles of the Gothic style. The appearance of the attraction dates back to 1230.

Features of the architectural design of the church:

The facade of the building was created on the basis of multi-colored marble.
The niches are decorated with sculptural images of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and angels.
The right side is decorated with floral ornaments, small turrets, numerous niches.

As a result, the church is one of the most worthy examples of Pisan architecture.

Location: Lungarno Gambacorti - 56125 Pisa PI.

The Camposanto (Holy Land) Memorial Cemetery has existed since 1278. A cemetery was built next to the sacred land, which, after the Crusades, was brought on ships from Jerusalem. Previously, burial in this area was considered honorable.

In 1944, the memorial cemetery was destroyed by the Americans, but nevertheless, restoration measures were successfully carried out.

The cemetery has the following features:

The main part is a courtyard with tombs of noble people, decorated with marble sculptures.
In the inner part there are graves for wealthy and less wealthy people.
The building is decorated unique frescoes renaissance, mosaic;
The basis of the architectural style is Gothic elements.

The Camposanto Memorial Cemetery is notable for its worthy execution.

Location: Piazza del Duomo- 17, 56126 Pisa Pl.

Agostini Palace appeared at the turn of the XIV - XV centuries due to the restructuring of several medieval buildings and their unification with one facade.

Agostini is distinguished by the following attributes:

Clay reliefs.
Double and triple lancet windows separated by columns.
Floral ornament.
Niches between windows with human figures and Agostini symbols.

The beauty of the Agostini Palace can be appreciated by every tourist.

Location: 56126, Lungarno Antonio Pacinotti - 26.

The church is located in the historical center of Pisa and dates back to the 13th century. The religious landmark originally belonged to the Knights of the Dominican Order, but later it was converted into a parish church.

The facade is made of white and gray marble, divided into three tiers. In the central part you can see a large Gothic rose. Inside the church are paintings, altars and sarcophagi.

Location: Piazza Santa Caterina.

Initially, they belonged to the navy of the Pisan Republic. Subsequently, the arsenals were owned by the Medici family, whose representatives repeatedly became the rulers of Florence.

Today, the Medici arsenals are used for the maritime museum.

The Archbishop's Palace is one of the most tall buildings in Pisa. Its construction took place in the 15th century. At the same time, the palace was built on the ruins of a building of the XII century. Subsequently, the palace complex had to be restored, preserving the best principles of the Florentine style.

The monastery has existed since 1393. It originally belonged to the Benedictine monks. However, in 1808 the nuns left the cloisters, but later returned to them. Thus, the test periods still managed to be successfully overcome.

Today the monastery complex is closed for worship. The building is used for conferences and congresses of the Cassa di Risparmi Foundation.

The Sinopi Museum is located in a building that was built in the middle of the 13th century. The construction was carried out at the behest of Pope Alexander IV to consolidate the reconciliation between the Holy See and Pisa. As a result, the building was used as a refuge for pilgrims.

The building was part of the hospital until 1969. After that, repairs were carried out. Now the premises are used for a museum in which you can see medieval paintings.

Location: Piazza del Duomo.

Palazzo Lanfreducci is one of the most interesting objects of the 18th century in Pisa. The palace complex was designed by architect Cosimo Puliani from Florence. At the same time, construction activities were successfully launched on the orders of Francesco Landucci, Knight of Malta.

The marble facade was created taking into account the principles of the Renaissance:

Three floors.
Five windows.
On the crossbeam of the doorway one can read the words Alla Giornata.
Above is a balcony with a French window emblazoned with the family coat of arms.

This style of the palace can be appreciated even in the 21st century.

Pisa is small but interesting city in Italy, which deserves special attention of tourists.

Attractions of Pisa - Pisa what to see? Hotels, everything about Pisa, photos of Pisa, how to get to the city of Pisa?

Pisa city (pisa), located in the north, was one of the largest Italian cities, the most powerful maritime power, the eternal rival, and. Today, the city is no longer landlocked - which, nevertheless, can be easily reached, due to the fact that Pisa is only a few kilometers from Tyrrhenian coast- however, his fame continues to thunder all over the world. Of course, we are talking about the famous tower, tilted from its vertical axis. But the leaning tower is just one of the many attractions in this city of Greek origin. Being in the shadow for centuries, which is located at a distance of about seventy kilometers, it is safe to say that Pisa can "give odds" to the capital of Tuscany, because in this city there are so many magnificent churches, towers, historical buildings and beautiful residences that during walking tour The streets of Pisa will take your breath away.

Most of the tourist beauties are concentrated in Piazza del Duomo, where the Leaning Tower of Pisa stands. Here you will also find an amazing number of souvenir shops offering tourists miniature replicas of the tower in all its different aspects (even towers that glow in the dark). The Leaning Tower of Pisa owes its world fame to Galileo Galilei: the legend says that the philosopher, in order to demonstrate the law of falling bodies, climbed this tower and threw objects made of various materials from above.

Everyone thinks that the Tower of Pisa is a completely unique phenomenon. However, there are still many historical buildings in the city, leaning like the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The fact is that the Pisan soil consists of clay and sand, which over time leads to displacements in the structure of the foundation of ancient buildings. So, the bell tower of the church of San Nicola has a slope of 2.5 degrees, and the bell tower of the church of San Michele Scalzi has the same slope as the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

How to get to Pisa?

The famous city of Pisa is easily accessible by car and bus via the motorway, by ship from the nearby port of Livorno, by train and of course by air thanks to Galileo Galilei International Airport.

By plane

The international airport, which is located in Pisa, bears the name of the famous physicist Galileo Galilei. It is located just a 5-minute bus, train or car ride from the city centre. It's a big one international Airport, which serves international and national airlines, tourists fly here to then get to various cities in the Tuscany region (for example, to Siena). To book tickets to Pisa without any problems, visit the large air ticket search engine Aviasales.ru, where in a matter of minutes you can select the desired flight and pay for the trip.

Landing at Pisa airport, you can easily reach the city center. You can take the train that connects the airport arrivals terminal with the Pisa train station.

In addition, every 10 minutes there is a bus from the airport (LAM Rossa line) that connects the airport with the Central Station and Pisa city centre. The bus station is located outside the airport - on the arrival side. By the way, there is a bus from Pisa airport to the railway station of Florence.

Most convenient way to get to Pisa from the airport - order a transfer from the airport to Pisa. Such a solution can be very beneficial for a group of tourists of 3-4 people. To move around the city, you can order a taxi in Pisa with a Russian-speaking driver. It is possible to select and order a transfer through convenient service Kiwitaxi: you just need to choose where you want to go from and where you want to go. At the specified time, at the specified place, your personal driver will be waiting for you with a sign with your name.

By train

The central railway station of Pisa (Pisa Centrale) is one of the main transport hubs at the regional and national level. From here it is easy to get to Florence and other Italian cities.

The station is located on the southern edge of the historic center of the city, about 1.5 km from the airport and two hundred meters from the suburban bus station Piazza Sant'Antonio.

Outside the railway terminal you will find a taxi rank and bus lines that will take you directly to Piazza dei Miracoli and Galileo Galilei International Airport. Inside the station there is a left-luggage office.

For information about train departure and arrival times, visit www.ferroviedellostato.it.

By car

If you have rented a car (you can book a car on the Rentalcars website, like the portal "Italy in Russian" already), then you can get to Pisa as follows:

From Florence- take the Firenze-Mare A11 motorway, exit Pisa Nord, then take the SS1 Aurelia towards Pisa Sud (about 6 km); alternatively via Florence-Pisa-Livorno (FI-PI-LI), exit Pisa Nord-Est (toward Cisanello Hospital), Pisa Airport, Pisa Aurelia (Leaning Tower of Pisa).

From Rome, Bologna- take the A1 motorway to Florence, then take the A11, exit Pisa Nord, then take the SS1 Aurelia towards Pisa Sud (about 6 km). Alternatively, from Rome you can take the A12-E80 to Civitavecchia, then the E80-SS1 Aurelia to Rosignano Maritime and then the A12-E80 to Pisa (Pisa Centro).

From Genoa- Take the A12 Genoa-Rosignano motorway, exit Pisa Nord, then take the SS1 Aurelia towards Pisa Sud (about 6 km).

Access to the historic center of Pisa by car is generally prohibited.

By bus

1) From Florence Airport

The center of Pisa can be reached directly from the airport and Florence train station. The service is provided by Terravision.

2) Suburban buses

Pisa is served by the CPT transport company which covers most of the province, by the Lazzi buses which connect Pisa with Lucca and Viareggio, and by the Vaibus which links Pisa with Lucca and Pietrasanta.

3) Intercity buses

Pisa is served by intercity bus lines that connect it to various Italian regions, mainly in the south-central part:

Bus lines Simet - Calabria (arrival Via Pietrasantina).
Bus lines Sena - Marche, Abruzzo, Apulia, Calabria, Campania, Sicily (arrival Via Pietrasantina).
Bus lines Moretti - Basilicata.
Bus lines Marozzi - Basilicata and Apulia.

View of the Apuan Alps from the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Thinkstock Photos

Where to stay in Pisa?

Pisa is a relatively small city with a population of less than 100,000 people, but the places to stay and stay for tourists are numerous and able to satisfy every visitor of the city: those who want to stay in the comfort and luxury of five-star hotels, and those who want to spend less saving for something fun.
If your budget is limited, choose three-star hotels, which are very numerous in the city, especially in the historical center.

If you think where to stay in Pisa, then our portal "Italy in Russian" advises you to visit Booking.com, where you can view numerous offers from the most popular hotels in the city. Below we present short list of the best, according to guest reviews, Pisa hotels.

4 star hotels

Address: Via Giuseppe Mazzini 57, Pisa
Visitor rating: 8.4 out of 10

Located in the historic center of Pisa, a 5-minute walk from the train station, the elegant Hotel Bologna offers cozy rooms with amenities (free Wi-Fi, minibar, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, large windows, wooden floors and heating ) and transfer to the airport.

Breakfast at the Hotel Bologna is served as a buffet of fruits, cold meats and fresh pastries, which can be enjoyed on the hotel's courtyard terrace. The bar offers free tastings of traditional Tuscan products.

Campo dei Miracoli and the Leaning Tower of Pisa are a 12-minute walk from the hotel, while the motorway connecting Pisa with Florence and Livorno is 3 km away.

Room price - from 50 euros / day.

Address: Via Filippo Mazzei 2 - Angolo S.Biagio, Pisa
Visitor rating: 8.3 out of 10

The modern Hotel San Ranieri is located 10 minutes from Pisa Airport and 300 meters from Cisanello, a stylish hotel that boasts a large garden and free Wi-Fi and parking services.

Rooms at the San Ranieri Hotel are equipped with a TV with Mediaset Premium channels, a minibar, air conditioning and a private bathroom. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building.

The hotel offers a breakfast buffet and the glass-roofed restaurant serves Tuscan cuisine indoors, outdoors or in your room. Easily accessible from the A12 motorway, Hotel San Ranieri is a 10-minute drive from Pisa Train Station and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Room price - from 72 euros / day.

3 star hotels

Address: Via Alessandro Della Spina 2 / 7 / 9, Pisa
Visitor rating: 8.6 out of 10

Alessandro Della Spina is just a 5-minute walk from Pisa Central Station and a 10-minute walk from the city centre. The hotel offers comfortable air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV and a private bathroom with bath or shower. There is free Wi-Fi in the hotel lobby. Breakfast at the Alessandro Della Spina includes homemade bread and croissants (included in the room rate).

Room price - from 99 euros / day.

Address: Via Risorgimento 42, Pisa
Visitor rating: 8 out of 10

Hotel Athena is just 300 meters from the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa; The hotel has a large garden.

Rooms in Hotel Athena air-conditioned and equipped with an LCD TV with satellite channels, a mini fridge and a private bathroom. In the lobby you will find free Wi-Fi.

The hotel's large garden is perfect place to relax outdoors, have a coffee or a cocktail. The hotel offers free parking (limited spaces).

Room price - from 67 euros / day.

Sights of Pisa

Square of Miracles (Piazza dei Miracoli)

The main religious monuments of the city are collected here: in addition to the leaning tower itself - the bell tower, on the wide Square of Miracles there is the Cathedral (therefore, another name for the square is Cathedral), the Baptistery and the ancient cemetery.

In 1155, the Square of Miracles was surrounded by walls, and a century later a cemetery (in its northern part) and a new hospital (in its southern part) appeared here. familiar to us modern look Square of Miracles acquired approximately in .

You can get to Miracle Square from the station by bus number 3.

Square of Miracles. Thinkstock Photos

Leaning tower (Torre pendente)

This is a world-famous symbol not only of Pisa itself, but of the entire tourist industry. The construction of the bell tower was started in 1173, however, due to subsidence of the soil and the resulting slope, after the completion of the third floor, the construction of the tower was suspended until 1275, when it was nevertheless decided to complete its construction. But the construction of the belfry itself ended only in the second half of the 14th century. The height of the tower is 56.7 meters. Pisa-born Galileo Galilei used the tilt of the tower for his free-fall experiments.

Over the past eight centuries, the tower has deviated from its axis by about two meters 60 cm. A very slow but constant increase in tilt has continued, but scientists have continued to make attempts to stop this process and fix the tower - using, for example, the installation of steel cables in 1996, or removal of part of the soil in the northern part of its foundation. The tower is currently tilted at 3° 54".

Falling tower. Thinkstock Photos

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is open to the public every day from 9.00 to 19.00 (March to October), 8.30 to 20.30 (April to September) and 9.30 to 17.00 (November to February). From June 14 to September 15, there are also night visits to the tower from 20.30 to 23.00. The cost of climbing up, where 294 steps lead, is 15 euros.

Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta)

The Cathedral of Pisa, dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was begun in 1064 by the architect Busqueto, who added elements of Norman, Byzantine, early Christian and even Arabic architecture to the traditional Romanesque style, trying with this original mixture to emphasize the scale of trade relations and the greatness of the Pisan Maritime Republic, and at the same time trying to surpass the "competitors" - the Venetians, who built the Cathedral of St. Mark in the same period.

The construction of the Pisa Cathedral was completed in the 12th century by the architect Rainaldo, who designed its magnificent façade. The modern appearance of the cathedral is the result of numerous restorations carried out at different times. Its interior, built in the shape of a Latin cross, is a real museum in terms of the number of works of art collected here. In the 19th century, however, some of the cathedral's sculptures were replaced with copies, and the originals were transferred to the cathedral's museum.

The facade of the Pisa Cathedral and its interior decoration. Thinkstock Photos

You can visit the Pisa Cathedral: in winter from 10.00 to 12.45 and from 15.00 to 16.45 (on weekdays) and from 15.00 to 16.45 in holidays. In spring and autumn, the cathedral is open from 9.00 to 17.40, in summer - from 8.00 to 19.40. The entrance fee is 2 euros.

Baptistery

The baptistery (baptistery), dedicated to St. John the Baptist, is another component of the monumental complex Square of Miracles.

Its construction began in the second half of the 12th century by the architect Diotisalvi; it was built intermittently for almost two centuries. Many of the sculptures that adorn the façade, as well as the pulpit, depicting scenes from the life of Christ, were created by Nicola Pisano.

The pulpit of the baptistery. Photo arte.it

Deprived of special decorations in its interior decoration, the baptistery has exceptional acoustics and is the largest in Italy - its circumference is 107.24 m.

Baptistery . F by Thinkstock

The baptistery is open to the public every day except January 1 and December 25, in winter - from 9.00 to 16.40, in spring and autumn - from 9.00 to 17.40, in summer - from 8.00 to 19.40. The cost of a full ticket is 5 euros, a reduced ticket is 2 euros.

Monumental cemetery (Camposanto monumentale)

In the northern part of the Square of Miracles is the Monumental Cemetery. The land itself, on which numerous tombstones of prominent residents of Pisa stand, is considered holy, brought by the crusaders from Mount Calvary. As decorative elements - works of art of the Etruscan, Roman and medieval periods. The cemetery was laid in 1277, and its construction was completed at the end of the 16th century. Until now, the restoration of frescoes that suffered from the bombing of the Second World War continues.

Monumental cemetery. Thinkstock Photos

Camposanto Cemetery is open to the public all days except January 1 and December 25, in winter from 9.00 to 16.40, in spring and autumn - from 9.00 to 17.40, in summer - from 8.00 to 19.40. The cost of a full ticket is 5 euros, a reduced ticket is 2 euros.

Piazza dei Cavalieri

Piazza dei Cavalieri or Piazza des Knights is one of the most famous squares in all of Pisa due to its unforgettable combination of antiquity and modernity. Here are some of the most important historical buildings of Pisa, such as the Palazzo del Orologio (Palazzo dell "Orologio), built on the site where the Torre Muda tower once stood, scary place, where in 1288 they starved Count Ugolino and his sons (whose story is told in the Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri); the Palazzo dei Cavalieri, designed by Vasari, and the church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri. There are also buildings that "meet" the future: for example, the Scuola Normale Superiore, one of the most important universities in all of Italy, whose physics department is one of the most popular and prestigious on the Italian peninsula.

Piazza dei Cavalieri. Thinkstock Photos

Museum of Art of Pisa Cathedral (Museo dell'Opera del Duomo)

Located in the premises of the former monastery of the Capuchin monks, the museum preserves the history of the monuments of the Square of Miracles. Here are outstanding works by such masters as Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, Tino da Camaino, as well as the Treasure of the Cathedral, wood inlays, chant decorated with miniatures, church utensils and other exhibits. There is a museum next to the leaning tower.

Museum of Ancient Ships (Museo delle navi antiche)

This is an archaeological museum in the process of its formation. In December 1998, during the construction of a railway junction, the remains of ancient ships, as well as the city port, were discovered, which were preserved in excellent condition. Soon they were put on public display, and in addition to the exhibits already presented in the showcases, everyone can follow the progress of the restoration work.

Museum exhibit. Photo iltirreno.gelocal.it

The museum is open to visitors every Friday and Saturday from 10.00 to 12.00 and from 14.30 to 15.30. Groups can book visits to the museum on other days. You can get to the museum on foot from the Square of Miracles.

Embankments of the river Arno (Lungarni)

Pisa is also famous for its picturesque waterfronts. It is a meeting place for both local youth and tourists. The banks of the Arno River are decorated with numerous palaces, bridges, towers and churches, the most famous of which are the Medici Palace, the Toscanelli Palace, the Church of St. Matthew. There are also numerous restaurants and bars here. Every year on June 16, on the day of the patron saint of the city - St. Ranieri, the banks of the Arno River, as well as all the buildings located on the embankments, are decorated with numerous lights, the play of which leaves an unforgettable impression.

Embankment of the Arno River. Thinkstock Photos

Church of St. Catherine (Chiesa di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria)

Built in the second half of the 13th century for the Dominicans, the church has a beautiful facade of white and gray marble, with a gothic-style cloister and a large central round window. The interior of the church was rebuilt in the second half of the 17th century after a fire that damaged it, and contains frescoes, paintings and sculptures by famous masters of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The Church of St. Catherine is located on the Square of Martyrs for Freedom.

Church of St. Catherine. Photo it.wikipedia.org

Church of Santa Maria della Spina

This small Gothic-style church got its name (spina - thorn) because, according to legend, it was here that from 1333 until the 19th century one of the thorns from the crown of thorns of Jesus Christ was kept, until the relic was transferred to the church of St. Chiara. Compared to the rich exterior, the interior of the church seems quite modest. However, masterpieces of Gothic sculpture such as the Madonna della Rosa (Andrea and Nino Pisano) can be seen here, as well as the treasury, created in 1534 by Stagio Stagi, in which the holy relic was kept.

Church of Santa Maria della Spina. Thinkstock Photos

The church is located on the Arno embankment, not far from the Solferino bridge, and is open to the public all days of Monday.

Church of St. Paul at the cliff (Chiesa di San Paolo a ripa d "Arno)

Address: P.zza San Paolo a ripa d "Arno, 21

This church, located along the Quai de Arno, to the south, was supposedly built in the ninth century, but was consecrated by Eugene III only in 1148.

The architecture of the church is impressive: it is easy to recognize the style that characterizes many of the facades of the church buildings of Pisa - "blind" passages with lancet arches, characteristic geometric elements, three gates and the upper part of the facade, decorated in the style Cathedral Pisa.

It is likely that earlier the church even more resembled the vaults of the Duomo of Pisa, given that the building underwent several facade reconstructions after the Second World War.

Church of San Paolo a ripa d'Arno. Photo by Thinkstock

Borgo Stretto

This is the most famous area in Pisa. It is located next to the medieval vaults of the Lungarno promenade. Here you can admire the other two leaning towers of Pisa: the one that belongs to the church of San Nicola (2.5 degrees of inclination) and that of the church of San Michele Scalzi (5 degrees of inclination). Among the churches in this area, it is worth visiting the Romanesque architectural gem, San Michele in Borgo.

Church of San Michele in Borgo

Address: Borgo Stretto, 10

The church and adjacent monastery, which belonged to the order of Benedictine monks, were built around 1016 and rebuilt several times after the bombings of World War II.

The facade of the church is in the traditional Romanesque style of Pisa with Gothic influences: the lower part dates back to the thirteenth century, while the upper loggias were created starting from the fourteenth century.

The monumental three-nave interior preserves the crucifix by Nino Pisano (XIV century), paintings by Matteo Rosselli ( Immaculate Conception), Baccio Lomi (Madonna and Child with Saints), Aurelio Lomi (Virtue), Giuseppe Melani (Nativity) and remains of frescoes from the thirteenth and eighteenth centuries.

Fragments of the pulpit, attributed to the master Andrea Pisano, are kept in the National Museum of San Matteo.

Church of San Michele in Borgo. Thinkstock Photos

Basilica of Saint Peter

Address: San Piero a Grado

St. Peter's Basilica is one of the most important churches in all of Pisa. The basilica was proclaimed. The church is a unique example of church architecture characteristic of Pisa, preceding the construction of the Pisa Cathedral. The basilica was built near the disappeared river port called Grado, where, according to legend, Saint Peter came down to earth in 44.

Excavations unearthed the foundations of an early Christian church built on the ruins of Roman civil buildings, later replaced by a larger church in the 8th-9th century. The current building, which was built in the tenth century and modified at the end of the eleventh, has a structure with three naves with the unusual presence of two apses, of which the western one was built, perhaps after the destruction during the flood of the facade and the entrance door on the north side.

The church is lined with unique ceramic fragments (copies; the originals are in the National Museum of San Matteo) from the Islamic world, Mallorca and Sicily, laid out in complex geometric shapes (X-XII centuries).

The imposing 12th-century bell tower was destroyed on July 22, 1944 by the soldiers of the retreating Wehrmacht, and then only its foundation was restored. Inside the basilica there are three bells taken from the ruins of the bell tower; The bell tower is currently under reconstruction.

Also inside you can see the place where St. Peter preached for the first time.

St. Peter's Basilica. Thinkstock Photos

On the walls of the nave you can see a huge cycle of frescoes, recently restored, commissioned by the Gaetani family for the anniversary of Pope Boniface VIII (Benedetto Caetani).

It also houses ancient portraits of popes ranging from St. Peter to John XVII (1003): this series of portraits is today unique after a catastrophic fire in 1823 that almost completely destroyed St. Paul's Basilica Outside the Walls in Rome, where the famous series of popes was located.

Address: Via Luca Ghini, 13

Visiting: Mon-Fri from 8.30 to 17.30; Saturday 8.30-13.

Tickets: 2.50 euros full; 1.5 euro concession

Botanical Garden of the University of Pisa. Photo: Thinkstock

The Botanical Garden of the University of Pisa is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. It arose under the name Giardino dell "Arzinale in 1544, thanks to the efforts of Luca Gini and the finances of Duke Cosimo I de Medici. The botanical garden competes with the botanical garden for the title of the oldest in the world. The garden changed its location several times until 1591, when it finally settled at the present address. botanical garden Pisa you can see more than 550 species of rare plants from all over the world.

Royal Palace and National Museum

The Royal Palace was built in 1583 by Bernardo Buontalenti for Francesco I de' Medici near the church and monastery of Saint Matthew.

Currently, the National Museum is located here, which stores numerous evidence of noble Tuscan families living in the palace: works by artists of the 4th century, sculptures of the 13th-15th centuries, furniture, tapestries, ancient weapons, a large collection of medieval ceramics.

National Museum of the Royal Palace. Thinkstock Photos

The National Museum is located on the embankment of the Arno River, open from Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 14.30, on Saturday - from 9.00 to 13.30. The cost of a full ticket is 6.50 euros, a reduced ticket is 1.50.

What to try in Pisa

Everyone knows that it is one of the most excellent on the planet, combining the seemingly incompatible - health benefits and unsurpassed taste. Going to the city of Pisa, you can fully enjoy this great tradition of the Tuscans - to eat tasty and plentiful.

Cheeses and meats are the main products of this area. One of the region's most notable cheeses is Pecorino del Parco di Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli, a semi-hard cheese with a sweet taste. Another delicious cheese delicacy is Pecorino Pisano, available in both "young" and aged versions.

Among the sausages, the most famous are the spicy Mallegato Pisano salami and the cured Pisan pork shoulder.

First, you should try the most popular dishes in Pisa - Pisan soup, white bean soup San Michele or frog soup. For those who do not inspire much confidence in frog legs, the menu of local restaurants has a delicious soup of 13 types of seafood, cacciucco.

Meat lovers probably know that in Pisa, as in other cities, they make excellent grilled or charcoal-grilled IGP beef - simple and incredibly tasty! You can also try the traditional Tuscan dish, "trippa" - stuffed veal stomach with vegetables.

For dessert, you will be offered a cake with pine nuts "torta coi bischeri", "castagnaccio" cakes, again with pine nuts and walnuts, or the famous Ricciarelli macaroons.

Pisa Restaurants

Here is a list of some restaurants and taverns famous and very popular in Pisa where you can enjoy a wonderful lunch or a hearty dinner.

Trattoria Il Campano

Address: Via D. Cavalca, 19

The ideal place to enjoy typical dishes of the Tuscan tradition. The establishment is located in the historical center of Pisa.

Ristorante Squisitia

Address: Via Filippo Mazzei, 2

Fresh ingredients, vegetarian options, gluten free and children are the key words that characterize the menu of this restaurant located on San Biagio street.

Osteria dei Cavalieri

Address: Via San Frediano, 16

This is a restaurant that offers the best Tuscan cuisine in an original and creative way.

Bar Settimelli

Address: Borgo stretto, 34

This bar is one of the most famous bars in Pisa, opened in the thirties and still a place where locals and tourists gather.

La Vecchia Cascina

Address: S. Biagio

On Via San Biagio, in an old Tuscan farmhouse, there is a restaurant that offers excellent pizza and Tuscan cuisine.

Osteria I miei Sapori

Address: Via della Faggiola 20

This restaurant specializes in typical Tuscan recipes and is located in the historic center of Pisa.

Holidays Pisa

In Pisa, ancient traditions are sacredly honored, arranging folk and historical holidays, some of which are already more than 6 centuries old.

The most important holiday in Pisa is considered day of the patron saint of San Ranieri, which is also called Luminara. The holiday is celebrated on June 17th. On the evening before the day of the patron saint, San Ranieri, candles are lit on the facades of monuments, houses and cathedrals, along the Arno and in the squares, and, of course, candles are placed on Pisa's main landmark, the leaning tower. The spectacle, I must say, is truly extraordinary. The next day, the Arno hosts the historic boat races, the San Ranieri Regatta, with the participation of four teams from the quarters of the city, preceded by the transfer of the altar of San Ranieri on the galleon of the ancient maritime republic of Pisa. A parade in historical costumes to medieval music passes through the streets of Pisa. A festive fair is open all day long along the Lungarni embankments.

Saint Ranieri's Day. Photo: flickr

Also in June, another important historical holiday is held in Pisa, which is called "Gioco del Ponte". The holiday of "playing on the bridge" originated in Pisa back in the Middle Ages, when the Pisan knights, tired of military campaigns, "had fun" with battles on weighty clubs called "Mazza Scudo". The "game" took place with the use of real tools and was not without injuries to the participants, so in the 19th century it was officially banned. The ancient game was revived in the 20th century as a historical reenactment, where dangerous battles were replaced by wagon pulling and complemented by a costumed historical procession of participants along the Ponte di Mezzo bridge.

Joko del Ponte. Photo: Thinkstock

On the 6th of August, Pisa celebrates San Sisto day: folklore shows and celebrations are held in the church dedicated to the saint.

Another breathtaking sight is Historical Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics(which takes place every four years, alternately in one of the four ancient maritime republics of Pisa, Amalfi, Genoa and Venice).

Pisa is usually considered as a day trip destination. Solo travelers people come here both from Florence and from numerous resorts for which the Tuscan Riviera is so famous. At the same time, Pisa can also be considered as a base point for trips around the area. Of course, from this point of view, Pisa is in many ways inferior to the same Florence (travel routes from Florence are discussed in detail in the corresponding article), but there are weighty arguments in favor of settling in Pisa.

Firstly, Pisa has its own international airport, where it is often much more convenient and cheaper to fly than to Florence airport (suitable tickets can be found on sites such as www.skyscanner.ru, www.momondo.ru, www.aviasales.ru etc.). Secondly, Pisa hotels are noticeably cheaper on average than hotels (and apartments) located in Florence (read more about where it is more convenient for a tourist to live in Pisa). Thirdly, from Pisa it is more convenient to get to the cities of the western part of Tuscany (including not only seaside resorts, but also Lucca in particular), as well as to the famous Cinque Terre National Park, located on the territory of neighboring Liguria. As a matter of fact, further we will consider these and other directions in detail. In doing so, we will focus primarily on the possibilities railway transport(see www.trenitalia.com).

So, where can you go for one day from Pisa.

Florence(Firenze) is the most obvious direction. It would be strange to come to Tuscany and not see Florence. Fortunately, it is not long to go from Pisa to Florence - about an hour by train. However, you should immediately make a reservation that it is worth going to the capital of Tuscany not for a day, but for at least two or three days (the question of where it is better to stay in Florence is discussed in detail). In one day, you only have time to run through the historical center of Florence, briefly inspect the main sights and admire the panorama of the city from the height of Piazzale Michelangelo.

Five Lands National Park, or Cinque Terre(Cinque Terre)- Another very obvious destination for a day trip from Pisa. The place is beautiful and no less popular than Florence. There are a lot of tourists here (especially during the summer holiday season), and you need to be prepared for this. Perhaps the best thing you can think of is, again, to come here not for one, but for several days (you can stop, for example, in Monterosso al Mare - more). But due to lack of time in the Cinque Terre from Pisa, you can go in one day, since it is really possible to get to the same Monterosso in just over an hour. You can go with a change in La Spezia, but there are also direct trains, which is much more convenient.

Luke(Lucca)- the city is pleasant in all respects: there is something to see, clean, comfortable, quiet and, moreover, very close to Pisa (between Pisa and Lucca about 30 minutes drive along railway). It is definitely worth coming to Lucca for at least half a day, and if you want to take a closer look at the interiors of the local churches, not limited to visiting the Cathedral of St. Martin, then you can safely lay the whole day on the trip.

Volterra(Volterra), even in comparison with Lucca, not to mention the Cinque Terre and Florence, the place is not so popular among tourists. However, in our opinion, a trip to Volterra can become no less interesting. Volterra is a small city, but here you can find traces of Etruscan civilization, and evidence of the ancient Roman era, and, of course, numerous echoes of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance that came to replace them. Half a day is more than enough. That's just getting to Volterra public transport not too convenient. From Pisa you can take the train to Pontedera (station Pontedera-Casciana Terme, ride about 15 minutes), and then transfer to bus number 500 to Volterra (drive about 1 hour 20 minutes; see the schedule on www.pisa.cttnord.it) .

It is clear that in this case it is much more convenient to travel by car, especially since in this way, along with Volterra, you can visit the nearby San Gimignano, famous for its medieval skyscraper towers. Siena is in the same direction.

For car travelers in Tuscany, in general, almost limitless expanses open up., since it is advisable to get to many attractions by car. In particular, we will mention such places as Cave of the Winds (Grotta del Vento), Barga (Barga), Castelnuovo di Carfagnana (Castelnuovo di Garfagnana), Isola Santa (Isola Santa), Carrara (Carrara). All of them are located in the Apennines north of Pisa (this part of the Apennines is often called the Apuan Alps), and within one trip you can easily combine visits to two or three places from the above or similar ones. East of Pisa are Vinci, San Miniato, Castelfranco di Sotto and other interesting towns. In short, the choice is extremely wide. Fortunately, renting a car in Italy in general and in Pisa in particular is not a problem (see www.rentalcars.com , www.economybookings.com etc.).

If you pay attention south of Pisa, you can find another interesting place, which for some reason often slips out of sight of travelers. It's about the island of Elba.

It cannot be said that Elba island(Isola d'Elba) located near Pisa. The distance between these places, in general, is quite decent (about 170 km). However, from the point of view of traveling in Italy, the most convenient way to get to Elba is through Pisa. Moreover, you can go to this island at least for a week, at least for two, since Elba is notable not only as the place of Napoleon's first exile, but also as an excellent seaside resort. (By the way, you can read more about the sea and beaches near Pisa.) You can get here with a change in Piombino (Piombino): to Piombino by train (about an hour and a half from Pisa), and from Piombino to Elba by ferry or "meteor" ( see www.toremar.it and www.blunavytraghetti.com). To the main town of Elba Portoferraio (Portoferraio) swim from 40 minutes to an hour, and to the town of Cavo (Cavo) - 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can get to Elba via San Vincenzo, which also has water links to this and other nearby islands (although there are few flights; see www.aquavision.it). Thus, if we talk about trips to the Elba from Pisa, it is quite possible to turn around in a day, and if you like it, then next time you can stay longer on the Elba.