Tuscany, Italy
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 within 10 years, with 2 blank pages.
If your nationality needs a Schengen visa, begin the application process 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 renting a car.
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 expenses.
Arrange for pet care, mail holding, or house-sitting. Inform a trusted friend or family member of your itinerary and emergency contacts. Charge all your electronic devices.
Advance bookings for certain items are advised.
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 purchases.
If you bought large items, confirm shipping arrangements with the store. Ensure you have receipts and 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 "Tax Free" form. They will often ask for your passport.
Go to the customs office (often marked "VAT Refund" or "Tax 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, baggage drop, security, passport control, and VAT refund processing.
For flights within the Schengen Area, 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient.
For trains from Pisa Centrale, arrive at the train station 15-20 minutes before departure to locate 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 ready for your departure.
Research local transportation: Familiarize yourself with the PisaMover, bus routes, and taxi procedures from the airport/train station to your accommodation.
Confirm all reservations: Double-check flight, hotel, tour, and train reservations. Print or save digital copies.
