Pisa

Pisa is far more than its famous leaning tower — one of the world's most visited monuments, yes, but also the centrepiece of an extraordinary ensemble of medieval monuments on the Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles) that justifies every superlative. The leaning tower's structural imperfection is one of history's most fortunate accidents; the 12th-century Romanesque architecture surrounding it is one of Italy's finest ensembles. The Piazza dei Miracoli contains four major monuments: the Duomo (cathedral), the Baptistery, the Camposanto (monumental cemetery) and the bell tower (Campanile — the leaning tower). The Duomo interior, with its gilded nave ceiling and Pisano pulpit, is magnificent. The Baptistery, the largest in Italy, has extraordinary acoustics — a guide's demonstration of the resonance inside is memorable. Climbing the leaning tower (pre-booking essential) is a surreal and unforgettable experience, particularly the photographs achievable at the top. Beyond the Campo dei Miracoli, Pisa reveals a genuine university city with medieval palaces along the Arno River, a vibrant student bar scene and excellent restaurants. The Lungarni (embankments along the Arno) are pleasant for walking. The Gioco del Ponte, a traditional battle of opposing teams on the Ponte di Mezzo bridge in June, is a spectacular local festival. Pisa's airport makes it an ideal entry point for Tuscany. The city is walkable, manageable and far more interesting than its monumental tourist function suggests.