Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA) is the gateway to Tuscany — a busy airport 2 kilometres from the city centre that serves Pisa, the city of the Leaning Tower, and the surrounding region of Florence, Lucca, Siena, and the Tuscan countryside. Pisa is far more than its famous tower — it is a city of Romanesque churches, medieval palaces, and a university that is one of the oldest in Europe. The airport is close to the city, making it an ideal entry point for exploring Tuscany, the Cinque Terre, the Apuan Alps, and the beaches of the Versilia coast. Hiring a car here lets you explore the art cities, the wine regions, the hill towns, and the coastline of one of the most beautiful regions in Italy.

We compare Avis, Hertz, Europcar and local operators at Pisa Airport. Compact cars start around €15/day. The airport is 80 kilometres west of Florence.

Why Hire a Car at Pisa Airport

• The Leaning Tower: The most famous landmark in Italy, a bell tower that began to lean during construction in the 12th century. The climb to the top is a unique experience.
• The Piazza dei Miracoli: The “Square of Miracles,” a UNESCO World Heritage site that includes the Leaning Tower, the Duomo, the Baptistery, and the Camposanto (a monumental cemetery).
• Florence: 1.5 hours east. The birthplace of the Renaissance, with the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Accademia (home to Michelangelo’s David).
• Lucca: 30 minutes east. A walled city with intact Renaissance walls that you can walk or cycle around. The city is famous for its olive oil and its music festival.
• Siena: 2 hours southeast. A medieval city of brick, with the Piazza del Campo (a shell-shaped square), the Palio (a horse race), and the Duomo.
• The Cinque Terre: 1.5 hours northwest. Five villages perched on cliffs above the sea — Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
• The Wine: Tuscany produces some of the best wine in the world — Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vernaccia di San Gimignano. The vineyards are beautiful, and the wineries offer tastings.
• The Beaches: The Versilia coast, 30 minutes north, has beaches at Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi, with long sandy stretches and beach clubs.

Driving from Pisa Airport

Italy drives on the right. The A11 and A12 motorways connect Pisa to Florence, Lucca, and the coast. The roads are excellent. Speed limits are 130 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on main roads and 50 km/h in towns.

Parking at Pisa Airport is at the terminal. In Pisa, parking is in designated areas — expect €10–€15 per day. At the Leaning Tower, use the car park near the Piazza dei Miracoli.

Booking Tips for Pisa Airport

• Book 3–4 weeks ahead for summer.
• If visiting the Leaning Tower, book tickets online — they are timed entry.
• GPS is useful — the road network around Pisa is complex.
• If combining with Florence, the drive is 1.5 hours east.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Hire at Pisa Airport

How far is Pisa Airport from the city centre? 2 kilometres — 10 minutes by car.

Is Pisa worth visiting? Yes — it is one of the most iconic cities in Italy, with the Leaning Tower, beautiful churches, and easy access to Florence and Tuscany.

Do I need an SUV? No — a compact car is fine for Tuscany.

Can I use my EU driving licence? Yes — EU licences are valid in Italy.