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Botanical Garden University of Pisa

4.4
·4k reviews·Pisa, Italy

Discover the world's first university botanical garden, a serene oasis in Pisa with ancient trees and diverse flora.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming flowers, pleasant temps

CrowdLow
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Piazzale Arcangeli

Botanical Garden University of Pisa

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming flowers, pleasant temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the world's first university botanical garden, a serene oasis in Pisa with ancient trees and diverse flora.

4.4
(4k reviews)

"A peaceful and educational escape from Pisa's main attractions, rich in history and plant diversity."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Easy Walk from Station

Just a 15-minute walk from Pisa's train station, making it super accessible. :train2:

🎟️ No Advance Tickets Needed

You can buy tickets at the entrance; no need to book ahead. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Arboretum

Ancient Arboretum

Central Garden

Wander through centuries-old trees, a living testament to botanical history. A truly serene and shaded escape.

Medicinal Plant Collection

Medicinal Plant Collection

Herbarium Area

Discover the historical uses of plants, a fascinating glimpse into ancient remedies and science.

Bamboo Forests

Bamboo Forests

Specific Section

Experience the unique atmosphere of dense bamboo groves, offering a cool and exotic retreat.

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Planning Your Visit

Escape the Crowds

While Pisa is famous for its tower, the Botanical Garden offers a tranquil escape. Visit early or late to avoid the midday sun and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It's a refreshing break from the usual tourist hustle.

Plan Your Visit

The garden is a short walk from the train station and doesn't require advance booking. Allow at least an hour to explore the diverse plant collections and greenhouses. Check opening hours, especially outside peak season.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming flowers, pleasant temps
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Shady respite from heat
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

La mejor foto en Pisa #quehacerenpisa #latinosenitalia🇮🇹 #pisaenundia #cosasdeitalia #latorredepisa #latorreinclinadadepisa #torredepisa #torredepisa🇮🇹 #peruanosenitalia #undiaenmivida😎 #viajandoporelmundo #viajandoporitalia #italiaysuscosas #torreinclinadadepisa #pisaitaly #pisa #firenzeitaly🇮🇹 #firenzetoscana #peruanosenfirenze🇮🇹🇵🇪 #peruanosenmilano #milano #roma
@tgutierrez23
50.9K likes • 654K views

🚶‍♀️ Easy Walk from Station

Just a 15-minute walk from Pisa's train station, making it super accessible. :train2:

🎟️ No Advance Tickets Needed

You can buy tickets at the entrance; no need to book ahead. :ticket:

The Orto botanico di Pisa, also known as the Orto Botanico dell’Università di Pisa, is a botanical garden operated by the University of Pisa, and located at via Luca Ghini 5, Pisa, Italy. @ortobotanicopisa #ortobotanicodipisa #gardenpisa #unipi #pisa
internationalofficeunipi
32 likes • 1.3K views
Pisa 🇮🇹 (part 2) 📍The University of Pisa and the Botanical Garden Founded in 1343, the University of Pisa is one of the oldest universities in Europe and a center of learning that has produced many notable scholars, including Galileo Galilei. Adjacent to the university is the Orto Botanico di Pisa, the oldest university botanical garden in Europe, established in 1544. It’s a serene spot for a lei...
lifeistraveling
0 likes • 268 views

🌿 Peaceful Escape

A quiet oasis away from the main tourist spots, perfect for relaxation. :leafy_green:

☀️ Beat the Heat

Great place to cool down during hot summer days with plenty of shade. :sunwithface:

The first recorded herbarium is credited to Luca Ghini, a professor of both medicine and botany at the University of Pisa, a site for the first university botanical garden in Europe. These early herbaria were created by gluing plant specimens (sometimes a single plant, sometimes multiple) to a sheet of paper which were all then bound into a book. One example of these early herbaria found in our ...
oakspringgardenfoundation
1.4K likes • 15.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Easy Walk from Station

Just a 15-minute walk from Pisa's train station, making it super accessible. :train2:

🎟️ No Advance Tickets Needed

You can buy tickets at the entrance; no need to book ahead. :ticket:

🌿 Peaceful Escape

A quiet oasis away from the main tourist spots, perfect for relaxation. :leafy_green:

☀️ Beat the Heat

Great place to cool down during hot summer days with plenty of shade. :sunwithface:

🧐 Well-Labeled Plants

Most plants are clearly marked, enhancing the educational experience. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Botanical Garden a peaceful and educational escape from Pisa's main attractions, appreciating its historical significance and diverse plant life. While some note areas could use more care, the overall experience is considered a worthwhile and tranquil visit, often enhanced by the presence of a friendly resident cat.

"I am dedicating this review to the most important part of this botanical garden: the orange fatso. He is always there on a sunny day to greet you, he might even cuddle you if it's colder and if you build that type of trust with him. He will bite and scratch if you cross him. He is always in the right to do it, so don't try him. Respect the little guy, he is the key part of the experience.

He let me cuddle him only recently after 3 years of courting... followed immediately by a slap in the face so you win some and you lose some.
Also, obviously this is a place worth checking out, one of the cutest and most peaceful places in Pisa, especially the central part that lacks greenery. You'll like it here, I can guarantee it."

Evelina Pushkash

"The Pisa Botanical Garden has a rich history and an interesting concept, but unfortunately our visit was underwhelming. While the setting is peaceful and the idea of walking among rare species is appealing, the plants looked neglected, with several sick or even dead. It felt like the garden could use more care and attention to truly shine."

Christina Nicolaou

"A good botanical garden that was worth the €4 admission fee. The plants were very well marked and labelled and I liked how it was laid out into two main areas based on style of garden. The greenhouses were hit or miss, some were closed and others felt quite cluttered and oppressive. The entrance was quite hard to locate, and it would be very nice if there was an alternate way in and out on Via Roma. Overall a good stop to get away from the tourist crowds and enjoy a nice day in Pisa."

Jacob Schepmann

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Historical significance
Diverse plant collections

What People Dislike

Some plants appear neglected
Greenhouses can be cluttered

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Botanical Garden is conveniently located about a 15-minute walk from the Pisa Centrale train station. It's also easily accessible by bus. Many visitors find it a pleasant stroll from the main tourist areas, offering a chance to see more of the city. Reddit

Some visitors have noted that the entrance can be a bit tricky to locate, especially if you're not familiar with the area. It's recommended to use a map or GPS. Reddit

Parking in Pisa can be challenging. While there might be street parking nearby, it's often easier and more convenient to use public transport or walk, especially if you're already in the city center. TikTok

Yes, the garden is well-served by local buses. Check with local transport providers for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Instagram

It's a pleasant walk of about 20-25 minutes from the Piazza dei Miracoli (where the Leaning Tower is located) to the Botanical Garden. It's a good way to see more of Pisa's charming streets. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is typically around €4, making it an affordable and worthwhile visit. You don't need to purchase tickets in advance. Reddit+1

No, advance booking is not required. You can purchase your tickets directly at the garden's entrance. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official University of Pisa Botanical Garden website or local listings for the most current information before your visit. Instagram

Information on discounts for students, seniors, or groups is usually available on their official website or at the ticket counter. It's worth inquiring if you qualify. Instagram

The garden has specific opening and closing times, which are subject to change. Ensure you plan your visit within these hours to avoid disappointment. Instagram

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

You can explore diverse plant collections, including ancient trees, medicinal plants, greenhouses with exotic species, and peaceful flowerbeds. It's a great place for a leisurely walk and learning about botany. InstagramReddit

Yes, children can enjoy the open spaces and the variety of plants. It's a calm environment for them to explore and learn about nature. Instagram

While not always advertised, inquire at the entrance or check their website for any available guided tours or educational programs. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed and encouraged, as it's a beautiful place. However, always be respectful of other visitors and the plants. Instagram

This refers to a friendly, well-known cat that often frequents the garden. It's become a beloved unofficial mascot for some visitors, adding a unique charm to the experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Look for the ancient trees, the diverse flora in the greenhouses, and the tranquil water features. The bamboo groves also offer unique photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Generally, drone usage is restricted in most public gardens and historical sites to ensure safety and preserve the environment. It's best to assume it's not allowed unless explicitly stated otherwise. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light provides softer, more flattering light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors. Instagram

Focus on macro shots of flowers and leaves, wide shots of the arboretum, or capture the interplay of light and shadow within the greenhouses. Instagram

Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during busy periods, to avoid obstructing pathways. It's advisable to check the garden's specific photography policy. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Botanical Garden offers a refreshing change of pace for families visiting Pisa. It's a calm and safe environment where children can explore and learn about nature without the overwhelming crowds often found at major attractions.Instagram The open spaces and diverse plant life provide plenty of visual interest.

Encourage kids to spot different types of trees, flowers, and perhaps even the garden's famous resident cat.Reddit The greenhouses can be particularly exciting, offering a glimpse into tropical environments. It's a great opportunity for a relaxed outdoor activity that combines a bit of learning with simple enjoyment. Remember to bring water and snacks, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers or couples seeking a peaceful retreat, the Botanical Garden is an ideal choice. It's a serene and contemplative space perfect for a quiet walk, reading a book under a tree, or simply enjoying a moment of tranquility away from the tourist throngs.Reddit+1 The well-marked paths and diverse flora provide ample opportunity for personal discovery and appreciation.

It's a wonderful spot for meaningful conversations or quiet reflection. The historical significance of the garden, being the oldest university botanical garden in the world, adds an intellectual layer to the experience. Consider bringing a journal or sketchbook to capture your thoughts and observations. Instagram+1

📚 Students & Academics

As the site of the world's first university botanical garden, this location holds significant historical and scientific importance for students and academics.Instagram+1 It's a living laboratory that showcases centuries of botanical research and practice. The meticulously labeled specimens and diverse collections offer invaluable insights for those studying botany, history of science, or related fields.

It's a perfect place to deepen your understanding of plant taxonomy, ethnobotany, and the evolution of botanical gardens. The garden's connection to the University of Pisa also provides a tangible link to the academic heritage of the city, including figures like Galileo Galilei. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Living Legacy: The History of the Botanical Garden

Founded in 1543 by Luca Ghini, the Botanical Garden of the University of Pisa holds the distinction of being the first university botanical garden in the world.Instagram+1 Initially established to cultivate medicinal plants for medical students, its purpose has evolved over centuries to encompass scientific research, conservation, and public education. The garden has moved locations twice since its inception, with the current site established in 1591.Reddit This rich history is palpable as you wander through its grounds, a testament to the enduring importance of botanical study.

Luca Ghini himself was a pivotal figure, credited with creating the first recorded herbarium – a collection of dried and pressed plant specimens mounted on paper.Instagram This practice revolutionized the study of botany, allowing for the preservation and dissemination of botanical knowledge across distances. The garden continues this legacy, housing a vast collection of plant species from around the globe, many of which are meticulously labeled and cared for. Reddit

Today, the garden is an integral part of the University of Pisa, contributing to ongoing research and offering a unique educational experience. It serves as a vital resource for understanding plant diversity, ecological relationships, and the historical significance of plants in medicine and culture. Visitors can explore various sections, including an arboretum, greenhouses, and themed gardens, each offering a glimpse into the world of botany. Instagram

Navigating the Green Oasis

The Botanical Garden is laid out into distinct areas, making it easy to explore. You'll find a beautiful arboretum featuring mature trees that provide ample shade, perfect for a leisurely stroll on a warm day.Reddit The garden also boasts greenhouses that house a variety of exotic and tropical plants, offering a different climate and a chance to see species not native to the region.Reddit Some visitors have noted that certain greenhouses might feel a bit cluttered, but the overall experience remains captivating.

Beyond the larger collections, the garden is known for its medicinal plant section, a nod to its historical origins.Instagram Here, you can learn about the therapeutic properties of various plants that have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The layout is designed to be educational, with clear labeling that enhances the visitor's understanding of each species. Reddit

While the garden is generally well-maintained, some reviews suggest that certain areas could benefit from more attention, with occasional mentions of plants appearing less vibrant.Reddit However, the overall consensus is that it's a worthwhile visit, offering a peaceful and green respite from the bustling city. The presence of a friendly resident cat, affectionately nicknamed the 'orange fatso,' adds a unique and charming element to the experience for many visitors. Reddit

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