How to Get to Pistoia. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports Near Pistoia

Pistoia does not have its own airport. Travelers fly into major airports in Tuscany or nearby regions, then connect to Pistoia by land.

Airport Details

Florence Airport (FLR) - Amerigo Vespucci: Approximately 30 km (18.6 miles) southeast of Pistoia. The closest airport, smaller but well-connected, mainly serving flights within Europe. The most convenient option for reaching Pistoia quickly.
Pisa Airport (PSA) - Galileo Galilei: Approximately ABOUT 37 miles (37 miles) to the southwest of Pistoia. Larger than Florence Airport, Pisa serves more budget airlines and some intercontinental flights, with a broader selection of flight options.
Bologna Airport (BLQ) - Guglielmo Marconi: Approximately 100 km (62 miles) to the northeast of Pistoia. A significant hub with a broader range of international flights, including more straightforward long-haul options.

Airlines & Flight Insights

Direct flights from North America are unusual for Florence (FLR) and Pisa (PSA). Most travelers connect through a major European hub.

Flight Availability & Pricing

Flight prices are highest during the high season (June-August) and during big holidays. Booking well in advance is recommended. Check Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for deals.
Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) generally a better value. Low season (November-March) typically the best deals.
All three airports provide standard facilities and services: car rental desks, ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, and dining.

From FLR to Pistoia

Bus + Train: "Volainbus" shuttle connects Florence Airport to Florence SMN train station. Journey takes 20-25 minutes, costs about €6. From Florence SMN, direct regional trains to Pistoia train station. Ride lasts 30-40 minutes, costs €5.50-€8.50. This is the most common and efficient way.

From PSA to Pistoia

People Mover + Train: "Pisa Mover" shuttle connects Pisa Airport to Pisa Centrale train station in about 5 minutes, costing around €5. From Pisa Centrale, direct regional trains run to Pistoia train station, taking approximately 40-50 minutes, costing €6-€9.

From BLQ to Pistoia

Marconi Express + Train: Monorail connects Bologna Airport to Bologna Centrale train station in about 7 minutes, costing €11. From Bologna Centrale, regional or intercity trains to Pistoia, taking approximately 45-75 minutes, costing €7-€12. Taxis are significantly more expensive, typically exceeding €150.

Taxi Options & Costs

Florence Airport Taxi

A cab from Florence Airport to Pistoia costs approximately €60-€80, depending on traffic and time of day.
This direct, convenient option, especially with luggage.
Consider a taxi if carrying heavy luggage.
Travel time subject to traffic conditions.

Pisa Airport Taxi

A taxi from Pisa Airport to Pistoia costs approximately €80-€100.
Direct bus services (e.g., Autolinee Toscane) are less frequent directly from Pisa Airport to Pistoia.
Connections often require transferring at Pisa Centrale.
Check bus schedules for weekend travel.

Self-Driving in Tuscany

Permit & Laws

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is for non-EU citizens to drive in Italy. Carry it with your national driving license.

ZTL Zones

Historic centers, including Pistoia, have ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones). These restrict or prohibit non-resident vehicles. Cameras enforce restrictions.

Parking

Always park outside the ZTL and walk or use public transport. Use designated parking lots located outside the ZTL boundaries when visiting Pistoia's historic center.

Land Transportation

Train Travel in Italy

Italy's efficient land transport network makes reaching Pistoia by train a convenient choice for many travelers.

Trenitalia & Routes

Pistoia is well-connected by Trenitalia. It serves both regional ("regionale") and some intercity trains.
Main Lines: Pistoia on the important Florence-Lucca-Viareggio regional line. Direct connections to Bologna via the scenic Porrettana line.
Frequency: Regional trains to Florence are frequent, typically running every 30-60 minutes.

Train Ticketing & Validation

Important procedures for train journeys.

Booking & Validation

Purchase regional train tickets at station ticket machines, staffed counters, or authorized "tabaccherias." Buy tickets online using the Trenitalia app or website.
If you purchase a paper regional train ticket, you are required to validate it by inserting it into one of the green (or sometimes yellow) machines on the platform before getting on.
Failure to validate can result in a fine.

Bus Travel Options

Long-distance bus companies offer limited direct connections to Pistoia.

Local & Long-Distance

Autolinee Toscane: extensive regional bus services, connecting Pistoia to nearby communities and hamlets.
FlixBus/Itabus: more likely to find connections to larger cities like Florence or Bologna, from where you can take a regional train to Pistoia.
Buses can be a budget-friendly alternative for selected journeys, but trains often offer greater speed and comfort in Tuscany.

Driving Laws & Road Tips

Italy has specific driving regulations.

Rules & Conditions

Driving Laws: Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Headlights often on motorways.
Italy has firm limits on alcohol consumption for drivers.
Road Conditions: Motorways ("autostrade") are excellent and well-maintained but are tolled. Secondary roads vary in quality.

Driving & Road Safety

Italian drivers can be assertive; expect close driving plus common horn usage.
Pay close attention to scooters and motorcycles, especially in city traffic.
A GPS device is highly recommended. Download offline maps.

Parking: Blue lines indicate paid parking. White lines indicate free parking (rare). Yellow lines for residents.
ZTLs are enforced by cameras, issuing automatic fines if you enter without proper authorization.
Heavy rainfall can lead to localized flooding in autumn.

Sea/River Arrivals

Sea & River Transit

Pistoia is an inland city, so sea or river transportation is not a direct way to arrive.

Ferry & Cruise Ports

The closest major port is Livorno, approximately 70 km southwest of Pistoia.
Livorno serves as a significant cruise port and ferry terminal for destinations like Sardinia, Corsica, and Sicily.
From Livorno, trains are available to Pisa, Florence, and then connecting to Pistoia.

Departure & Airport Amenities

Preparation for leaving Pistoia.

Exit Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing passengers from Italian airports.
Arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before an European flight.
Services At the airport/station: Major airports shops, restaurants, lounges, and restrooms. Train stations usually basic amenities, including cafes and newsstands.

Smooth Departures

Ensure all documents are accessible and allocate ample time for airport procedures.

How to Get to Pistoia