Florence and Pisa, two iconic Italian cities, are just a stone’s throw away from each other, making Pisa an accessible day trip when in Florence. But with multiple modes of transport available, which one should you choose? Let’s dive into the options.
Image Credit: Getty Images, SolStock. Image Location: Italy.
The best way to get from Florence to Pisa
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Florence to Pisa by train: the locals’ choice
Why opt for the train?
- Speed and frequency: trains can whisk you from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station to Pisa Centrale station in just under an hour, with approximately 48 trains running per day.
- Convenience: Pisa Centrale is a mere 20-minute stroll away from the iconic Leaning Tower. If walking’s a challenge, look out for the hop-on hop-off buses in summer.
- Booking made easy: with Trainline, it’s a breeze to check prices and schedules.
Pro tip: opt for faster trains if you’re short on time, even if they’re a tad pricier. Also, for smoother navigation, remember Firenze is the Italian name for Florence.
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The bus route: direct to Pisa airport
Especially relevant for those transiting via the airports
- From airport to airport: ideal if you’re heading straight from Florence’s airport to Pisa’s, or vice versa.
- Flixbus option: this service connects Villa Costanza coach station in Florence to the Fermata Flixbus Station in Pisa. The quickest service takes 1 hour and 15 min. But note, the pricing might end up similar to train fares after adding various fees.
Hint: given that train tickets are similarly priced, offer more comfort, and eliminate traffic worries, trains overshadow buses for this route.
Image Credit: Getty Images, © Marco Bottigelli. Image Location: Tuscany, Italy.
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Driving from Florence to Pisa: the road less taken
The drive experience:
- Duration: expect about 1h 15m to 2h, barring traffic.
- Parking tips: while you can’t drive inside Pisa’s city walls (the ZTL zone), numerous parking lots exist outside. One such free option is near Via Piave. Another sizable one near the Leaning Tower is the Via del Brennero car park, but remember it’s closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays due to market activities.
- Cost: if you’re paying for parking, it’s typically around $1 per hour.
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Opt for an organized tour: stress-free sightseeing
Why a tour might suit you:
- Hassle-free: tours simplify the process for those not wishing to navigate trains, buses, or cars.
- Variety: from exclusive Pisa day trips to extensive tours covering multiple Tuscan towns, there’s a palette of choices.
Image Credit: Getty Images, David Dolci Ph(D). Image Location: Florence, Italy.
How to save on travel from Florence to Pisa with Trainline
Ever dreamt of gliding from the artful embrace of Florence to the historic allure of Pisa without breaking the bank? Well, here’s your golden ticket to savings.
- The early bird gets the... discount. Snap up train tickets from Florence to Pisa for as low as $8.85. Train companies tend to roll out their tickets three to six months ahead of time, often with tempting early-bird prices.
- Clock-watch to save. Remember, time isn’t just money, it’s savings. Peak hours (6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays) often come with peak prices. Swing your travel plans to off-peak times and watch those ticket prices take a dip.
- Scenic route over speed. Sometimes, the journey is just as spectacular as the destination. On busier tracks, slower or connecting trains could be your passport to savings. Take your time, soak in the sprawling Tuscan countryside, and save a penny or two in the process.
- Deals are a traveler’s best amico. Everyone loves a good deal, right? Keep your eyes peeled for special train deals and offers. Our curated guides are a treasure trove of information on when and where to snag those discounts.
So, if you ever find yourself pondering the best way to get from Florence to Pisa, remember this: the train journey is not just a means to an end. It’s a scenic bridge between two remarkable cities, offering a blend of comfort, efficiency, and picturesque beauty.
With Trainline as your travel companion, your Italian adventures are bound to be unforgettable. Ready to make memories? Hop on board and let the Tuscan adventures unfold by downloading the Trainline app.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, CentralITAlliance. Image Location: Pisa, Italy.