How to Get to Pisa. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving Pisa

Pisa benefits from a conveniently located international airport, making it a straightforward destination for air travelers.

Airport Options

Pisa International Airport (PSA) - Galileo Galilei Airport: 1 km south of city center. Regional hub for Tuscany.
Florence Airport (FLR) - Peretola: ~80 km east of Pisa. Alternative if direct Pisa flights are unavailable/expensive.
Connect from Florence to Pisa by train or bus.

Airlines and Routes

A broad range of carriers provides diverse options for European travelers, mostly connecting through major European hubs.

Flight Information

Pisa (PSA): Popular for low-cost carriers (Ryanair, Volotea, Wizz Air) from European cities.
Traditional airlines (British Airways, Lufthansa, ITA Airways) connect via major European hubs.
Direct intercontinental flights to Pisa are limited; connect through major European hubs (Rome, Milan, London, Paris, Amsterdam).

Flight Availability

High season (June-Aug) means frequent flights, higher prices. Shoulder season (April-May; Sept-Oct) has good availability, moderate prices. Low season (Nov-Mar) means fewer direct flights, lower prices.

PSA Airport Facilities

Modern, well-equipped with car rental, currency exchange, duty-free shops, restaurants, and free Wi-Fi.

Airport Transfers

From PSA to Pisa Centrale: PisaMover (5 mins, ~€5), Taxi, LAM Rossa bus. From FLR to Pisa: Bus + Train, or direct bus.

Flight Search Resources

Find Deals

Dollar Flight Club for discounted airfare alerts.
Skyscanner for comparing flight prices from various airlines.
Flexibility with travel dates can yield significant savings, especially in low season.
Book flights well in advance, specifically for high season.

Manage Travel

Pack light to avoid baggage fees on low-cost carriers.
Utilize free Wi-Fi at airports for last-minute checks.
Download airline apps for real-time updates and mobile boarding passes.
Consider car rental directly at the airport for regional exploration.

Airport Facilities & Services PSA

Car Rental Desks

Major international companies are available directly at the airport. You can find them upon arrival.

Currency Exchange

ATMs and currency exchange offices are available for your financial needs.

Shops & Dining

Duty-free shops, souvenir stores, local product shops, and a selection of restaurants and cafes.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Pisa Centrale is a major railway hub in Tuscany, with excellent connections to Italian cities and regional towns.

Routes & Booking

To Florence: Frequent regional trains (Regionale), ~1 hour.
To Rome: Intercity or high-speed trains, ~3-4 hours with changes.
To La Spezia (Cinque Terre): Frequent regional trains, ~1 hour.

Bus Services & Car Rental

Italy's extensive land transportation network makes arriving and departing by train or bus a comfortable and scenic option.

Ground Travel Options

Long-distance buses: Autolinee Toscane for regional services within Tuscany.
Self-driving: Valid domestic license + International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU citizens. DiscoverCars.com.
ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones): Many city centers have restrictions; avoid unauthorized entry (fines apply). A Michelin Italy Road Map is useful.

Sea & River Travel

Pisa is inland, but its proximity to the coast means sea arrivals are an option through nearby ports.

Port & River Options

Ferry/Cruise Ports: Livorno (~25 km south) is a major cruise port. Ferries connect to Sardinia, Corsica.
River Transportation: Arno River boat tours offer unique city views.
Connections from Livorno: Taxis/buses to Livorno Centrale, then regional trains to Pisa Centrale (~15-20 mins).

Departure Information

Plan your departure to ensure a smooth journey out of Pisa.

Departure Info

No specific exit fees or taxes for tourists departing Italy or the Schengen Area.
Flights from PSA: Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights, 1.5-2 hours for Schengen flights.
Trains from Pisa Centrale: Arrive 15-20 minutes before departure. Validate regional tickets.

Travel Tips for Getting There & Away

Allow ample time for transfers to the airport or train station, especially during peak hours.
Be aware of ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones) if driving into city centers.
For regional trains, always validate your ticket at the green validation machines on the platform.

Double-check your flight or train schedule the day before departure.
When renting a car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required for non-EU citizens.
Always use official, licensed taxis.

Departure & Arrival Services

Pisa Airport PSA Services

Pisa Airport offers a range of facilities for departing travelers, making the process smooth.

Airport Amenities

Check-in counters and automated baggage drop points.
Security screening areas.
Duty-free shops for last-minute shopping.

Additional Departure Support

Further services to assist with your departure, from dining to tax refunds.

Departure Facilities

Cafes and restaurants for pre-flight meals or snacks.
Business lounges for eligible travelers.
VAT refund offices for non-EU residents to process tax-free shopping claims.

Smooth Exit Strategy

Check your flight or train schedule the day before departure. Allow sufficient time for airport/station transfers.

Driving Considerations

Italian drivers can be assertive. Be aware of speed limits and local driving customs. Pay attention to scooters.

Travel Document

Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.

Departure Readiness

Train Travel Details

Pisa Centrale offers various services to departing train travelers.

Station Facilities

Ticket counters and self-service machines.
Clear signage for platforms.
Shops and eateries.

General Departure Protocol

Seamless Exit

Confirm travel details online or through apps before heading to the airport/station.
Ensure luggage meets airline/train requirements.
Keep all necessary travel documents easily accessible.

Car Rental Return

Return Locations

Car rental companies have desks at Pisa Airport (PSA) for convenient returns.

Fuel Policy

Return the vehicle with the same fuel level as rented to avoid additional charges.

Inspection

Inspect the vehicle for any new damages with the rental agent upon return.

Departure Tip

Double-check your flight or train schedule the day before departure, as changes can occur. Allow ample time for transfers.

How to Get to Pisa