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Pisa

Pisa's greatest claim to fame is undoubtedly is its landmark monument, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. However there is more to Pisa than the tower. The Piazza dei Miracoli, boasts of other great Romanesque splendors, which make it one of Europe's most memorable squares. The city has a rich cultural past and is also famous for its university.

Things to see in Pisa

• Piazza dei Miracoli: The piazza houses one of the greatest collections of Romanesque monuments: the cathedral, the baptistery and the Leaning Tower. The piazza is also a great place to shop for souvenirs ranging from cigarette lighters to flashing lamps. Only a limited number of people are allowed to go up the Leaning Tower so if you don't want to miss the chance, book in advance. The Cathedral is famous for the works of art, especially the pulpit by Giovanni Pisano. The Baptistery, dedicated to John the Baptist, is one of the largest of its kind in Italy.
• Piazza dei Cavalieri: Also known as the Knights' Square, Piazza dei Cavalieri was the political center of medieval Pisa. The Knights of St Stephen set up base here in the 16th century to repel the raids by the Turks. The stunning piazza now houses the Scuola Normale, one of Pisa's highest learning centers.
• Piazza delle Vettovaglie: This 16th century square, in the heart of the old medieval town, is a lively place to stroll through and experience the bustle of the city.
• San Sepolcro: This mysterious church is said to have been built for the Knights Templar in the shape of Christ's sepulcher.
• San Paolo a Ripa d'Arno (St Paul on Arno's Bank): This beautiful old church dates back to 925 AD and is one of the finest Romanesque churches in the Tuscan region.

Restaurants in Pisa

Pisa, being a university town, has numerous dining options especially around the university area, Borgo Stretto, Piazza Dante Alighieri and Via San Martino.

• La Tana: The friendly service and affordable prices attract students, locals and tourists. If you are looking for a quick meal, you can try pasta veloce
• Osteria dei Cavalieri: The wine list here is amazing and so is the osteria, the main favorite here. The size of the portions served is so huge and you must just require a siesta afterwards.
• La Bottega del Gelato: Head for this place near the river. There is a constant queue in both summers and winters for the creamy ice creams it sells.

Entertainment and nightlife in Pisa

There are several stylish bars along Via Oberdan and Borgo Stretto. Another favorite hangout place is south of the River Arno. If you are looking for opera, dance and theatre, you can check out Teatro Verdi.

• Pick a Flower: The place has a romantic atmosphere complete with candlelight, good wine and tapas. The terrace here attracts a lively crowd.
• Pub Ambaraba: This is a popular bar that specializes in cocktails.

Golfing in Pisa

Cosmopolitan Golf & Country Club: This 18 holes golf course was voted the best golf course in Italy in 1993. The obstacles consisting of sand, dunes and lakes make the game extremely challenging and stimulating. The mild and temperate climate, even during summers and the magnificent surrounding scenery add to the pleasure of the game. The facilities here include residence with 42 apartments and private swimming pool, shuttle bus service to and from Cosmopolitan Beach, clubhouse, tennis court, driving range, putting green, chipping area, pro-shop, motorized golf-carts, pull trolleys and golf bags rental.