Is it better to fly into Pisa or Florence?

Flying into Pisa is usually a little less expensive than Florence and there is a train station right at the airport, so traveling to Florence by train is very easy and cheap. Siena and San Gimignano can be done as day trips from Florence if you are looking for the least amount of worry(no need for a rental).



Choosing between Pisa (PSA) and Florence (FLR) depends on your budget and final destination. Pisa International Airport is the primary gateway for low-cost carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet, making it significantly cheaper for budget travelers. It is located very close to the city center and offers a direct "Pisa Mover" shuttle to the train station, from where you can reach Florence in about an hour. Florence Airport, while much closer to the historic center of the Tuscan capital, is a "boutique" airport with a shorter runway, meaning it primarily serves full-service airlines like Lufthansa or ITA Airways and is prone to flight diversions during high winds. If you are staying in Florence and value convenience, FLR is better as it’s now connected by a fast tramway. However, for the majority of international travelers looking for better flight frequency and lower fares, flying into Pisa and taking the train is the more practical and cost-effective strategy for exploring Tuscany.

Whether it’s better to fly into Pisa or Florence depends on your travel plans, budget, and preferences. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

Flying into Pisa (Galileo Galilei Airport - PSA)

  • Pros:
  • Cheaper flights: Pisa often has more budget airline options, especially from low-cost carriers like Ryanair.
  • Convenient for Tuscany exploration: Pisa is well-connected to other Tuscan cities (e.g., Lucca, Siena) and coastal areas like Cinque Terre.
  • Quick access to Florence: Florence is just 1 hour away by train, making Pisa a practical entry point.

  • Visit Pisa’s attractions: You can see the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa and other landmarks right after landing.

  • Cons:

  • Extra travel time: If your primary destination is Florence, you’ll need to factor in the train or bus journey.
  • Smaller airport: Fewer amenities and flight options compared to Florence.

Flying into Florence (Amerigo Vespucci Airport - FLR)

  • Pros:
  • Closer to Florence: The airport is just 20 minutes from Florence’s city center, saving time and hassle.
  • Convenient: Ideal if Florence is your main destination or base for exploring Tuscany.

  • More flight options: Florence has connections to major European hubs, though fewer budget airlines.

  • Cons:

  • More expensive: Flights to Florence are often pricier than Pisa.
  • Limited airport: It’s a smaller airport with fewer international flights compared to Pisa.

Recommendation:

  • Choose Pisa if you’re looking for cheaper flights, don’t mind the extra travel time, or want to explore Pisa and other parts of Tuscany.
  • Choose Florence if your primary focus is Florence, you’re short on time, or you prefer convenience over cost.

Both airports are well-connected and offer easy access to Tuscany’s highlights, so you can’t go wrong either way!

People Also Ask

Located only 80 km apart, the Pisa airport is the larger of the two airports. Both airports handle flights to major European cities. Pisa handles the bulk of European scheduled flights so it might be easier to find flights into Pisa if you're flying from Europe.

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You'll generally find more things to do in Florence than Pisa. Florence is bigger than Pisa, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Florence is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Pisa is more popular for its nightlife and beaches.

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Florence airport is the nearest airport for most locations in Tuscany. It is a small but modern airport. Very close to the A1 motorway around Florence. Smaller planes fly into Florence due to its location.

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Pisa is just an hour away by train and makes for a perfect one-day trip from Florence.

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Conclusions. Sightseeing Pisa on its own will not take you more than a day. However, based on the number of activities you can plan just outside the city, you might want to reserve 3-4 days in Pisa area, to make the most of your trip in Tuscany.

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The easiest way to get to Florence is to fly to Florence Airport or to Pisa International Airport, located 62 miles (100 km) west of Tuscany's capital.

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Direct flights from London to Florence are available from the vast majority of London airports with the notable exception of London Heathrow (LHR). Airlines to choose from ? depending on your preferred departure airport ? include Vueling, Iberia and British Airways.

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The fastest trains from Pisa to Florence take around 48 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 69 kilometres. On weekdays, the first train leaving Pisa is scheduled to depart at around 04:15. The last departure is usually at around 22:30.

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Safety at night:Safe Pisa, generally has a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, even at night. Though as with any city, it's advisable to be cautious, stay in well-lit areas, avoid deserted streets, and always remain aware of your surroundings.

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Florence is by far Tuscany most popular destination, regarded as the birthplace of Renaissance. It is the irresistible region full of romance and enchanting attractions, with art and architectural masterpieces at every turn.

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