Leaning Tower of Pisa travel guide

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most recognizable structures in the world, known for its unintended tilt. Construction began in 1173, led by architect Bonanno Pisano.

The tower was built on a soft foundation of clay, sand, and shells, which could not support the weight of the stone structure, causing it to lean. By the time builders reached the third level in 1178, the tower had begun to tilt. Despite this, construction continued, finally completing in 1372.

In the 20th century, efforts were made to stabilize the tower, and it was closed to the public in 1990 for safety reasons. After a decade of corrective reconstruction and stabilization efforts, the tower was reopened to the public in 2001. Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience and architectural ingenuity, attracting visitors from around the globe.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is renowned globally for its remarkable four-degree lean, a result of the unstable soil beneath it. This distinctive tilt, which began during its construction, has been stabilized in the 21st century, preserving the tower's unique characteristic. The monument is a seven-story, circular bell tower standing approximately 56 meters high. Its design, a combination of Romanesque and Gothic architectures, features elegant arches and intricate column detailing, making it a stunning example of medieval European architecture.

Another interesting aspect of the tower is its spiral staircase, consisting of 296 steps. The staircase leads visitors to the top, offering a panoramic view of Pisa and its surroundings. Despite its lean, the tower is completely safe to climb. Lastly, the Leaning Tower of Pisa also stands out for its bells. It houses seven bells, each corresponding to a note of the musical major scale. This feature further adds to the tower's charm and historical significance.

Located in the dynamic Pisa, the popular Leaning Tower of Pisa is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Pisa or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Italy.

Pisa is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Pisa offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Pisa and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Piazza del Duomo, Piazza dei Cavalieri, Cattedrale di Pisa, Giardino Scotto, and Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Pisa has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Pisa, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Leaning Tower of Pisa is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Pisa, Italy. If you're flying in, Florence Airport is approximately 40.7 miles (65.4 km) away from Pisa. From there, you can easily reach Leaning Tower of Pisa by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Pisa, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Leaning Tower of Pisa, which is located 0.6 miles (0.9 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Leaning Tower of Pisa, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Leaning Tower of Pisa!

The best time to explore Leaning Tower of Pisa is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September and October). During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, making it ideal for sightseeing and climbing the tower. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C, providing a comfortable climate for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn also tend to see fewer tourists, which means less crowded views and shorter wait times. If you're interested in special events, the Luminara di San Ranieri, a stunning light festival, takes place in June and adds a magical touch to the Pisa experience. Equally thrilling is the city's historical regatta in June, which is a sight to behold. However, it's worth noting that these events attract a larger crowd, so plan your visit accordingly. For those seeking a tranquil visit, late autumn is particularly captivating, with less footfall and the city adorned in beautiful fall colors. Hence, timing your visit during these periods ensures a delightful and memorable experience at the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

To truly enjoy your visit to Leaning Tower of Pisa, joining a tour that features this popular bell tower in Pisa is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Leaning Tower of Pisa draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Leaning Tower of Pisa starting at just 15.5 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Leaning Tower of Pisa and Italy's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Florence Airport and the city of Pisa, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Italy cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Pisa and beyond.

Conveniently explore Leaning Tower of Pisa and plenty more captivating attractions in Pisa by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Leaning Tower of Pisa and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Pisa has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Leaning Tower of Pisa below.

Aside from Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Pisa, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Piazza del Duomo, Piazza dei Cavalieri, and Cattedrale di Pisa.

Piazza del Duomo is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Pisa, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 100,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Piazza del Duomo is Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Pisa is Piazza dei Cavalieri. Like Piazza del Duomo, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 9,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is P. Za dei Cavalieri, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy.

Cattedrale di Pisa is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Pisa. This church and top attraction in Pisa has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,300 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Pisa below.