ARCHITECTURE WONDERS TO SEE FOR FREE IN PISA

Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles)

Overview:
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most spectacular architectural ensembles in the world, featuring:

  • The Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta (Duomo)
  • The Baptistery
  • The Camposanto Monumentale

Free Highlights:

  • Admire the intricate Romanesque facades and marble work
  • Walk the green lawn and view the buildings from every angle
  • Visit the Duomo interior for free (ticket still required, but at no cost)

Address:
Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa

Piazza dei Cavalieri

  • Overview: Once the heart of Pisan political life, this elegant square was redesigned during the Renaissance by Giorgio Vasari. It’s now home to the Scuola Normale Superiore, one of Italy’s most prestigious universities.

Architectural Gems:

  • Palazzo della Carovana with its detailed sgraffito facade
  • Church of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri
  • Statues, coats of arms, and classical symmetry

Address:
Piazza dei Cavalieri, Pisa

Lungarni (Arno River Promenades)

  • Overview: Walk along the Arno River to see a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical facades. The views are magical, especially at sunrise or sunset.

What to See:

  • Palazzo Blu (beautiful exterior, free exhibits sometimes inside)
  • Santa Maria della Spina – a jewel of Gothic architecture right on the riverbank
  • Colorful historic buildings reflecting in the water

Location:
Lungarno Gambacorti and Lungarno Pacinotti

Medieval City Walls (Le Mura di Pisa)

  • Overview:
    These 12th-century defensive walls once encircled the entire city. While some parts can be visited for a fee, many sections—especially near Piazza delle Gondole—are visible for free.
  • Free Experience:
    Walk along the base of the walls, discover ancient gates like Porta a Lucca, and enjoy panoramic photo opportunities.
  • Tip:
    From outside, you can get great architectural views without needing to pay to climb the walls.

Borgo Stretto & Corso Italia (Historic Streets)

  • Overview: These two pedestrian streets represent the medieval and Renaissance heart of Pisa. They’re lined with arcades, noble palaces, and charming piazzas.

What to Admire:

  • Frescoes and family crests on palace facades
  • Elegant arches and Renaissance balconies
  • Hidden courtyards and small chapels

Cultural Tip:
Pause in Piazza Chiara Gambacorti for a quiet moment surrounded by period architecture.

San Michele in Borgo

Overview:
A beautiful Romanesque church tucked between shops and cafés on Borgo Stretto.

Free Highlight:

  • White marble facade with columns and arches
  • Free to enter and admire the interior vaulting and frescoes

Location:
Via Borgo Stretto, Pisa

Porta Nuova and Porta a Mare (City Gates)

  • Overview: These are two of Pisa’s surviving medieval gates, standing as monumental symbols of its fortified past.

Why Go:
Great architectural detail, historic stonework, and a feeling of stepping back in time. Free to view and photograph up close.

Locations:

  • Porta Nuova: near Piazza dei Miracoli
  • Porta a Mare: western edge of the city

Santa Caterina d’Alessandria

  • Overview: This striking Gothic church features pointed arches and colored marble accents, and it’s located near the university area.

Free to See:

  • Peaceful interior with 14th-century details
  • Quiet courtyard and nearby student gardens

Location:
Piazza Santa Caterina