Florence and Pisa are two iconic cities in the Tuscany region of Italy. Florence is famous for its Renaissance art and architecture, while Pisa is known worldwide for its Leaning Tower. Many travelers visit both cities in one trip due to their close proximity and rich cultural heritage.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Florence to Pisa. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, costs, and useful tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Florence to Pisa – Main Options

Train

Taking the train is the most popular and convenient way to travel from Florence to Pisa. It offers frequent services and a comfortable ride through the Tuscan countryside.

• Trains depart from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station and arrive at Pisa Centrale station, covering about 85 km in roughly 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, with fares ranging from €8 to €15 depending on the train type.

• Regional trains run every 15 to 30 minutes throughout the day, making it easy to find a convenient departure time without advance booking.

• The trains are generally comfortable with air conditioning and luggage space, but can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially in summer and holidays.

• Tickets can be purchased online via Trenitalia or at station counters; validating paper tickets before boarding is mandatory to avoid fines.

• Traveling by train avoids traffic jams common on the roads between the two cities, especially during weekends and festivals.

Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly option but less popular due to longer travel times and fewer direct services. They suit travelers looking for cheaper fares and flexible stops.

• Buses depart from Florence’s main bus stations, such as Autostazione SITA or Piazzale Montelungo, and arrive at Pisa’s central bus stops near the train station.

• The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic, with fares typically between €5 and €10.

• Bus frequency is lower than trains, with fewer departures per day, so checking schedules in advance is important.

• Comfort levels vary; some buses have air conditioning and Wi-Fi, but others may be older models with limited amenities.

• During peak tourist seasons and holidays, buses can be crowded, and traffic delays are common on the A11 highway connecting Florence and Pisa.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Florence to Pisa offers flexibility and the chance to explore smaller towns along the way. It is ideal for travelers who prefer private transport and want to control their schedule.

• The distance is about 85 km via the A11/E76 highway, with an average drive time of 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• Toll charges apply on the A11 highway, so keep some cash or electronic payment ready for toll plazas.

• Parking in Pisa city center can be limited and expensive; look for designated parking areas or park-and-ride options outside the city.

• Driving during peak hours or weekends may involve heavy traffic, especially near Florence and Pisa entrances.

• Car rental services are widely available in Florence, including at the airport and city center, with prices varying by vehicle type and rental duration.

Flight

Flying between Florence and Pisa is generally not practical due to the short distance and lack of direct flights. Both cities have airports, but they mainly serve international and domestic flights to other destinations.

• Florence Airport (Peretola) and Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei) are about 85 km apart, but no scheduled flights operate between them.

• Traveling by air would involve connecting flights and longer total travel time compared to train or car.

• For travelers arriving by air, Pisa Airport is closer to Pisa city, while Florence Airport serves Florence, making ground transport the best option between the two cities.

• Airport shuttles and taxis are available to reach city centers from both airports efficiently.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers moving from Florence to Pisa. It covers practical actions to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your train tickets online via Trenitalia or Italo to secure the best fares and avoid last-minute queues at Firenze Santa Maria Novella station.

• Arrive at the Florence train station at least 20 minutes before departure to find your platform and validate your ticket if needed.

• Board the train heading to Pisa Centrale; regional trains are frequent and do not require seat reservations, but check the train number carefully.

• Upon arrival at Pisa Centrale, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Uber or local services to reach your accommodation or tourist spots.

• If you prefer driving, rent a car in Florence, check GPS routes for the A11 highway, and plan parking in Pisa ahead to avoid delays.

• Carry a small daypack with water, snacks, and a printed or digital copy of your tickets and accommodation details for convenience.

Practical Travel Tips

• Keep your belongings secure at train stations and on trains, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Drink bottled water and eat at reputable cafes or restaurants near stations; avoid street vendors to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

• Book train tickets in advance during summer and holiday periods to avoid sold-out trains and higher prices.

• Use local buses or taxis for last-mile travel in Pisa; prepaid taxi stands at Pisa Centrale are safer and more reliable than hailing on the street.

• Travel light if using public transport, as crowded trains and buses can make handling large luggage difficult.

• During winter months, check weather forecasts as fog can occasionally delay trains and affect driving visibility on highways.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Florence to Pisa depends on weather and tourist seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making travel easier.

Summer is peak tourist season, with higher prices and crowded trains, while winter can bring fog and occasional rain, affecting travel comfort.

• Avoid traveling during major Italian holidays like Ferragosto (mid-August) when transport is crowded and prices peak.

• Summer months (June to August) see heavy tourist traffic; book tickets and accommodation well in advance.

• Early morning or late evening departures can help avoid daytime traffic jams on highways and crowded trains.

• Monsoon is not a factor here, but occasional rain in autumn and winter may cause minor delays; carry an umbrella and dress accordingly.

Arrival at Pisa & What to Expect

When you arrive at Pisa Centrale, you will find a well-connected station with easy access to the city center and tourist attractions like the Leaning Tower.

Local transport options include city buses, prepaid taxis, and app-based cabs such as Uber. Walking is also convenient for nearby sites, but taxis are recommended if you have luggage.

Accommodation options are clustered around the station and Piazza dei Miracoli area, offering choices from budget hostels to mid-range hotels. Booking in advance during peak seasons is advisable.

Conclusion

Traveling from Florence to Pisa is straightforward, with the train being the most efficient and popular option. It offers frequent departures, reasonable fares, and a comfortable journey through Tuscany’s scenic landscape.

Planning ahead by booking tickets online, choosing the right departure time, and knowing local transport options will help you enjoy a smooth trip. Whether you prefer the convenience of a train, the flexibility of driving, or budget-friendly buses, this guide equips you to travel confidently between these two beautiful Italian cities.