Pisa Tuscany, Italy Travel Guide
What to do 3 months, 1 month, 1 week before your trip.
A structured approach to your pre-trip tasks.
Check passport valid for 3 months beyond departure, issued in THE last 10 years, with 2 blank pages.
If your nationality needs a Schengen visa, begin the process for applying immediately.
Begin monitoring flight prices to Pisa (PSA) or Florence (FLR). Start preliminary accommodation research.
Secure hotel/rental, confirm cancellation policies. Pre-book Leaning Tower tickets.
Arrange comprehensive travel insurance. Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if hiring a vehicle.
Notify bank/credit card companies of travel dates. Research local SIM card/eSIM options.
Double-check flight, hotel, tour, and train reservations. Print or save digital copies.
Install Google Maps (with offline maps for Pisa), Google Translate (with Italian language pack), and other useful apps. Obtain a small amount of Euros for immediate payments.
Arrange for pet care, mail holding, or house-sitting. Inform a trusted friend or family member of your schedule and who to call in an emergency. Make sure all your devices are charged electronic devices.
Advance bookings for certain items are recommended.
Familiarization with the destination makes for a better trip.
The first hours in a new destination can be disorienting.
A well-structured checklist alleviates stress and directs focus to the excitement of your upcoming trip to Pisa.
Leave some time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
If you bought large items, confirm shipping arrangements with the shop. Ensure you have receipts plus tracking information.
Be mindful of airline baggage weight limits. Weigh your luggage before heading to the airport.
If you are a non-EU resident and made purchases over a certain amount (currently €154.94 per store), you may qualify for a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund.
When making a qualifying purchase, ask the retailer for a "Duty-free" form. They will often ask for your passport.
Head to the customs office (often marked "VAT Refund" or "Duty-free"). Present your passport, purchases (goods must be unused and in original packaging), and the completed tax-free forms for stamping. Customs officials may ask to see the items.
Arrive at Pisa Airport 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time.
This allows for check-in, bag check, security, passport control, and VAT refund processing.
For flights within the Schengen Area, 1.5-2 hours is generally adequate.
For railway travel from Pisa Centrale, arrive at the train station 15-20 minutes before departure to discover your platform.
A well-organized departure allows you to leave Pisa feeling relaxed and ready for your next destination or return home.
Familiarization with the destination makes for a better trip.
Ensure your home is all set for your departure.
Research local transportation: Learn about the PisaMover, bus routes, and taxi procedures from the airport/train station to your accommodation.
Validate all reservations: Double-check flight, hotel, tour, and train reservations. Print or save digital copies.
