If we were all brutally honest there is only one reason people come to Pisa and that’s to see the Leaning Tower. Sure the city has more than enough historic churches, several palaces, and bridges to probably fill a day but by the time you get to Pisa you’ve probably had your fill of such things. The Leaning Tower, on the other hand, is pretty unique. In fact we even heard one couple lamenting the fact that they were staying in Pisa overnight!

A side trip to Pisa can be easily done traveling between cities – in this case on our journey between Rome and Florence. In practical terms this meant leaving our luggage at the train station, hopping on a bus to get to the tower and pre-booking our timed entry into the tower. Entry into the Leaning Tower is not only expensive (17 euro!) but also strictly managed with limited numbers being allowed up it at any one time, a limited visit time-wise and absolutely no bags allowed (handbags included!)

Because of the lean in the tower climbing up the steps to reach the top actually didn’t feel like hard work at all. Some people may feel a little vertigo however so watch out for that. Otherwise, it was a relatively peaceful climb and because they limit the numbers going up and down at any one time it didn’t feel crazily crowded or rushed. I love how the steps were so worn from the people climbing it.

The typical picture of Pisa is of people holding it up but I kind of liked the ones of us pushing it over better. 🙂