Pisa International Airport

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

The main advantage of Pisa Airport is its unique location. It is situated just two kilometres from the city centre, making it one of the most accessible in Europe: if you wish, you can even walk to the main streets, and a trip by transport takes just a matter of minutes.

For the convenience of travellers, the automated PisaMover train is in operation. This high-speed shuttle connects the terminal to Pisa Central Railway Station in just 5–8 minutes, ensuring an ideal connection for those planning to continue their journey across Italy by train.

The airport serves as the main hub for low-cost carriers in the Tuscany region. Thanks to this, travellers often choose Pisa as their starting point for trips to Florence, Siena, and the Tyrrhenian coast, saving significantly on flights compared to other airports.

• Official website: www.pisa-airport.com
• Information desk phone: +39 050 849 300
• Address: Piazzale D'Ascanio, 1, 56121 Pisa PI, Italy
• Email (for general inquiries): sat@pisa-airport.com
• Social Media: The airport maintains active pages on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram, where you can follow news and updates.
• Lost & Found Information: Phone: +39 050 849 400; E-mail: ufficio.oggettismarriti@toscana-aeroporti.com
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance or consultation, including support for passengers with reduced mobility, it is recommended to contact the main information desk number.

Galileo Galilei International Airport (PSA) in Pisa is one of the most convenient airports in Italy thanks to its location just a few kilometres from the city centre. There are several ways to reach the terminal, each with its own advantages.

Public Transport: PisaMover and Buses

The fastest, most modern, and popular way to get to the airport from the centre of Pisa is the automated shuttle train PisaMover. It connects Pisa Centrale railway station directly to the airport terminal. Trains depart every 5-8 minutes, and the entire journey takes only about 5 minutes. This is an ideal option for those arriving in the city by train or wishing to avoid traffic. The ticket cost is a few euros. Intercity buses also depart from the airport, linking Pisa with other Tuscan cities, such as Florence and Siena.

Taxi and Private Transfer

A taxi ride from the city centre, for example from the Leaning Tower, to the airport will take no more than 10-15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of the trip is usually fixed or calculated by meter and is approximately 10-15 euros. This is a convenient option for travellers with a lot of luggage or those who value comfort and speed. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which is particularly beneficial for large groups.

Car Rental and Parking

If you are travelling in a rental car, getting to the airport is effortless — simply follow the "Aeroporto" signs. Offices of all major international rental companies are located within the terminal building. Several parking zones are provided at the airport: short-term parking (P2) is located directly opposite the terminal, while long-term parking (P4) is slightly further away, offering more favourable rates for those leaving their car for several days.

The International Airport of Pisa, named in honour of the great scientist Galileo Galilei, is distinguished by its compactness and well-thought-out structure. This significantly simplifies navigation for travellers, especially for first-time visitors. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights, including Schengen and non-Schengen destinations.

The terminal layout is intuitive and logical. The building is divided into two main levels:

• Ground Floor (Piano Terra): This is the arrivals area. Passengers arrive here after disembarking from the aircraft. Located here are baggage reclaim belts, customs control, car rental counters, a tourist information centre, and exits to bus stops, taxis, and the PisaMover automated train station, which connects the airport to Pisa's central station.
• First Floor (Primo Piano): This is the departures area. Escalators and lifts from the main hall lead to this floor. Located here are the check-in counters (divided into zones A and B — be sure to check the display to see which one serves your flight) and the security checkpoint.

Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between buildings, saving time and eliminating unnecessary stress. After passing security control, passengers enter the "airside" zone with Duty Free shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, where one can comfortably spend time waiting for boarding. Boarding gates are clearly marked with signs.

On average, one should allow about 45-60 minutes for check-in and security screening at Pisa Airport. However, during the peak tourist season (June to September) and in the morning hours when many flights depart, waiting times may increase. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before international flights and 1.5 hours before domestic ones to complete all formalities without rushing. Simply follow the signs for "Partenze" (Departures) or "Arrivi" (Arrivals), and you will easily orient yourself in this cosy airport, which serves as a convenient starting point for travels across the Tuscany region and all of Italy.

The history of the International Airport of Pisa (PSA), bearing the name of the great scientist Galileo Galilei, is rooted in a military past. The airfield was built in the 1930s — early 1940s and was initially used exclusively for military purposes. After the end of the Second World War, its gradual transition to civil aviation began, and by 1947 it received its first commercial flights, becoming a vital transport hub for all of Italy and the Tuscany region.

A key stage in the airport's development was the 1960s and 1970s, when a new passenger terminal was built to serve the growing flow of tourists. However, a true revolution occurred at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries with the arrival of budget airlines. Pisa Airport became one of the first and largest bases for low-cost carriers in Italy, which multiplied its passenger traffic and made it the main gateway to Tuscany for millions of travellers from all over Europe.

In recent decades, the airport has undergone several stages of modernisation. Terminals have been expanded and renovated, the runway updated, and passenger infrastructure improved. An interesting fact: the airport still retains its dual purpose, serving both civil and military aircraft. This unique combination of history and modernity makes it not just a transport facility, but an integral part of the history of the city and the entire region.

Pisa International Airport offers passengers a full range of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find numerous cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Italian pizza or have a cup of espresso before departure. For shopping enthusiasts, there are shops with souvenirs, fashionable clothing, and, of course, a Duty Free zone with a wide selection of goods.

To ensure you stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for gadgets will allow you not to worry about battery levels. For those who value enhanced comfort, the VIP Galilei Lounge is available. Here, in a quiet atmosphere, you can relax, use a separate workspace, and enjoy snacks and beverages.

The airport provides all necessary financial services: there are bank branches, currency exchange points, and ATMs. In case of need, a first aid point operates within the terminal. For passengers with small children, nursery rooms are equipped where you can change and feed your baby in a calm environment.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility — the special assistance service Sala Amica operates for them, and a barrier-free environment has been created. Business travellers can use the services of the business centre with meeting rooms. If you have an early departure or late arrival, there are several hotels located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal, reachable on foot or by shuttle in a couple of minutes. This makes travelling through Pisa even more convenient.

At the International Airport of Pisa (PSA), travellers will find diverse dining spots allowing for a quick snack before departure or a leisurely enjoyment of Tuscan cuisine. Establishments are located both in the public area (landside), accessible to all visitors, and in the secure area (airside) after passing security control.

Before Security Control (Landside) you will find several cafes and bars. This is an ideal option if you are seeing someone off or have arrived at the airport early. Here you can drink a cup of aromatic espresso or cappuccino with fresh pastries, for example, a cornetto (Italian croissant). Prices here are generally slightly lower than in the departure zone.

After Security Control (Airside) the choice becomes wider. For those in a hurry, numerous bars and cafes operate, offering panini sandwiches with various fillings, pizza slices (pizza al taglio), and salads. If you have time for a full meal, pay attention to the self-service restaurant. Here you can try classic dishes of Italy: pasta, lasagna, or meat dishes. This is a great opportunity to enjoy a final Tuscan lunch before flying.

Particular attention should be paid to local specialties. Do not miss the chance to order a plate of Tuscan appetizers with prosciutto, salami, and Pecorino cheese, perhaps accompanied by a glass of local Chianti wine. This is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the region's atmosphere. For those following specific diets, most establishments offer vegetarian options (for example, pasta with tomato sauce or vegetable pizza). Gluten-free pasta is also becoming increasingly available, but it is better to check availability in advance.

Most dining establishments at Pisa Airport open early in the morning and operate until the last evening flights depart. The average bill for a quick snack (coffee and a sandwich) will be about 10-15 euros, while a full lunch in a restaurant will cost from 20-30 euros per person. Overall, the airport offers decent options to wait for your flight in comfort.

Travelling through Galileo Galilei International Airport in Pisa (PSA) usually goes smoothly, as it is quite compact and straightforward. Nevertheless, a few tips will help make your experience even more comfortable and predictable, especially if you are arriving in Pisa for the first time.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For flights within the Schengen area, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure. If your destination is outside Schengen, it is better to allow about 3 hours. During the peak tourist season (June to September), queues can be longer, so a little extra time won't hurt. To save time, complete online check-in and, if travelling with hand luggage only, head straight to security.

Passing Control and Seat Selection. The security screening procedure is standard for airports in Italy. Remember the rule regarding liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. When flying out of Pisa, try to get a window seat on the left side of the aircraft — in good weather during the ascent, you might have a chance to see the famous complex on the Square of Miracles from a bird's-eye view.

Hand Luggage. Besides standard restrictions on liquids and sharp objects, ensure that your power banks and other batteries are in your hand luggage, not in checked baggage. There may be a limited number of power outlets at the airport, so a fully charged phone and a portable charger are your best friends.

Transit Passengers and Customs. Pisa is not the largest transit hub, so transfers here usually do not take much time. If you are arriving from a non-EU country, you will have to pass customs control. Follow the signs for the "green" or "red" channel depending on whether you have goods to declare. If you plan to claim a Tax-Free refund, find the customs office before checking in for your flight to present your purchases and get your receipts stamped.

Saving Time and Money. The fastest and most affordable way to get to Pisa Central Station is the PisaMover automated train, which departs directly from the terminal every few minutes. This is much more economical than a taxi. To save on food and drinks, bring an empty water bottle and fill it after passing security, and buy light snacks in the city beforehand.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, keep an eye on the departure boards for information. Remember your rights under EU Regulation 261/2004, which provides for the provision of drinks, meals, and, if necessary, a hotel during long delays. There are several cafes and shops in the airport where you can spend time while waiting.