AmyHuang
Doing the must dos in Pisa
It's iconic to Italian tourism, along with the Colosseum , the leaning tower of Pisa is one of those things you must 'do' while in Italy. The town Pisa, however, often overlooked on a tour itinerary and often after an hour's break and a few silly photos, the budding tourists are herded back into their bus to the next destination.
One must not forget, that towns like these always have their inner charm.
To the most important things first. My initial impression of the leaning tower was over shadowed by my disappointment of its size - it seems a lot smaller than the pictures present it to be. Although, photos never do anything justice, as I noticed the marbled facade of the tower, as well as the cathedral, is incredibly beautiful. The sun's reflection off the surface gives an impression you get from a brand new marbled kitchen bench, almost ornament like, making me reluctant to touch it, afraid the delicate structure will shatter under my fingertips.
After my own silly photo with the tower, I wandered into the town of Pisa. Pisa, besides housing the tower, is essentially a student town. The university is right in the city centre which meant cafes and bread shops line the many squares and parks providing great places for students to discuss their papers over a cup of coffee. The Armo river that slices the town in half is a tranquil sight, and as all small towns go, the banks are filled with strollers, roller blades and cyclists going from one place to another.
And of course, I spent my afternoon licking away fresh, mouthwatering gelato.
Surrounded by lush hills of Tuscany, Pisa also makes a great base for exploring the country side of Italy.
There isn't much public transport in Pisa, but a town so small, you only need your pair of enthusiastic feet to take you around to enjoy the quieter, less touristy parts, and simply let yourself fall in love.
Links:
Leaning Tower of Pisa Official Website
The World Guides on Pisa
The magnificent Cathedral of Pisa
One must not forget, that towns like these always have their inner charm.
To the most important things first. My initial impression of the leaning tower was over shadowed by my disappointment of its size - it seems a lot smaller than the pictures present it to be. Although, photos never do anything justice, as I noticed the marbled facade of the tower, as well as the cathedral, is incredibly beautiful. The sun's reflection off the surface gives an impression you get from a brand new marbled kitchen bench, almost ornament like, making me reluctant to touch it, afraid the delicate structure will shatter under my fingertips.
My silly photo with the tower
After my own silly photo with the tower, I wandered into the town of Pisa. Pisa, besides housing the tower, is essentially a student town. The university is right in the city centre which meant cafes and bread shops line the many squares and parks providing great places for students to discuss their papers over a cup of coffee. The Armo river that slices the town in half is a tranquil sight, and as all small towns go, the banks are filled with strollers, roller blades and cyclists going from one place to another.
And of course, I spent my afternoon licking away fresh, mouthwatering gelato.
Surrounded by lush hills of Tuscany, Pisa also makes a great base for exploring the country side of Italy.
Along the Armo
A part of Pisa
There isn't much public transport in Pisa, but a town so small, you only need your pair of enthusiastic feet to take you around to enjoy the quieter, less touristy parts, and simply let yourself fall in love.
Links:
Leaning Tower of Pisa Official Website
The World Guides on Pisa
