Pisa

When planning a journey to sunny Italy, many tourists wonder how to get to Pisa — the pearl of the Tuscany region. This ancient city, famous worldwide for its architecture, is a major transport hub that is easily accessible by plane, train, or car.

The fastest and most comfortable way to arrive in Tuscany is to fly directly to Pisa International Airport (PSA), which serves as the region's main air gateway. The airport handles millions of passengers annually and is excellently connected to the city centre, allowing you to start sightseeing almost immediately after landing.

Alternatively, you can consider flying into neighbouring Florence (FLR), located just 69 km away, or using the airports in the cities of La Spezia and Massa. The choice of arrival airport often depends on flight schedules and ticket prices, but a direct connection to Pisa remains the most preferred option.

Although many travellers choose rail transport for trips around the country, it is worth considering the route specifics when planning your visit. For train travel, it is most convenient to focus on major transport hubs in neighbouring cities, such as Florence or La Spezia.

Rail connections are also well-developed in the city of Massa, located approximately 41 km away. From these points, you can continue your journey to your final destination, enjoying the picturesque views of Italian landscapes from the carriage window.

Bus travel allows you to enjoy the beauty of the region and reach your destination in comfort. A popular route connects the city with Massa: the bus covers the distance of 42.8 km in approximately 1.1 hours. Also in demand is the service from the city of La Spezia, from where the 74 km journey will take around 1.8 hours.

For those travelling from further within the region, a route from Florence is available. Despite the distance of 97 km, the trip lasting about 3 hours will fly by unnoticed thanks to the scenic views outside the window.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to plan stops independently. The quickest way to arrive is from Massa: the journey of about 50 km will take just 0.7 hours. The scenic road from the city of La Spezia, spanning 78 km, will require about 1 hour of time.

If you are departing from Florence, expect to spend approximately 1.4 hours on the road, covering a distance of 87 km. Travelling by car or taxi along Italian roads is a distinct pleasure, allowing you to see corners of the country hidden from the eyes of most tourists.

To ensure your trip to Pisa leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth preparing in advance for the local way of life. Here are a few practical recommendations that will help you feel confident in this Italian city.

1. Clothing and Footwear. The historic centre is paved with cobblestones, so choose the most comfortable flat-soled shoes possible. In summer, a hat and sunscreen are essential, while in spring and autumn, a light jacket or raincoat will be useful.
2. Transport. The main attractions are located compactly and are best explored on foot. For trips to the outskirts or the seaside, it is convenient to use city buses; tickets must be purchased in advance at tobacco shops (Tabacchi).
3. Finances. The currency is the Euro (EUR). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is better to carry some cash for paying for small souvenirs or a cup of coffee.
4. Safety. As in any popular tourist destination, keep an eye on your belongings in crowds, especially near the Tower. The single emergency number is 112.
5. Language. The official language is Italian. In the tourist zone, staff speak English well, but a couple of phrases in the local language, such as Buongiorno (Good day) or Grazie (Thank you), will always bring a smile to the locals.
6. Restaurant Etiquette. Do not be surprised by the line item "coperto" on the receipt — this is a standard service charge for setting the table. Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.
7. What to Avoid. It is strongly recommended not to buy fake designer bags and sunglasses from street vendors — in Italy, this carries heavy fines not only for the seller but also for the buyer.
8. Useful Tip. Tickets for climbing the Leaning Tower have a strict time slot. Book them online several weeks before your visit to guarantee entry and avoid queues.

Following these simple rules will make your stay in Tuscany comfortable and safe. Enjoy the atmosphere of the ancient city, its cuisine, and unique architecture without unnecessary worries.