Overview
Pisa is one of Tuscany's easiest and most rewarding city breaks for UK travellers, famous the world over for its Leaning Tower but every bit as appealing for its handsome riverside streets, university-town buzz and unbeatable access to the rest of Tuscany. Flights to Pisa from the UK are well served by low-cost carriers, flight times are short, and the airport sits almost on the doorstep of the historic centre — making Pisa one of the simplest long-weekend destinations you can book.
Best time to fly to Pisa
Late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are the sweet spot, with warm, dry weather and thinner crowds around the Leaning Tower than in peak summer. July and August bring reliably hot, sunny days but also the busiest queues at the main sights. Winter is mild by UK standards and a good option for a quieter, budget-friendly trip, though some routes run less frequently outside the summer season. Use the price charts on this page to compare fares across the year and spot the cheapest months to travel.
Airlines and routes
Pisa International Airport (PSA) is well connected to the UK, with Ryanair operating direct flights from several airports including London Stansted, Luton, Bristol and Edinburgh, and easyJet flying direct from London Gatwick, Luton and Manchester. British Airways and Jet2 also add seasonal direct services from London and northern England on certain dates. Direct flights typically take around 2 hours 15 minutes, making Pisa an easy short-haul hop for a weekend or week away. For departures from airports without a direct link, a quick connection via a major European hub is usually available.
Things to do in Pisa
Beyond the famous Tower, Pisa rewards travellers who linger a little longer with elegant piazzas, riverside walks and some of Tuscany's best-value dining.
- Piazza dei Miracoli: Home to the Leaning Tower, the Duomo and the Baptistery, this UNESCO-listed square is Pisa's unmissable centrepiece.
- Camposanto Monumentale: A serene cloistered cemetery famed for its faded medieval frescoes, just steps from the Tower.
- Piazza dei Cavalieri: The elegant former political heart of Pisa, ringed by Renaissance palaces and home to the prestigious Scuola Normale.
- Borgo Stretto and the River Arno: Wander arcaded medieval streets and colourful riverside buildings that rival Florence's for charm, minus the crowds.
- Day trip to Lucca or Florence: Both are easily reached by train in under an hour, making Pisa a brilliant base for exploring wider Tuscany.
At Pisa International Airport (PSA)
Pisa International Airport is one of Europe's most conveniently located, just over a mile (around 2km) from the city centre. The Pisa Mover automated people-mover connects the terminal to Pisa Centrale railway station in about five minutes, from where central sights are a short walk. Regular LAM Rossa buses also run into town, and taxis take roughly 10 minutes. For onward travel, direct trains from Pisa Centrale reach Florence in about an hour, making the airport a handy gateway for a wider Tuscany itinerary.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Pisa
- Book ahead: Fares to Pisa tend to be at their best around two to four months before travel — check the When to book chart above for current trends.
- Fly midweek: Tuesday and Wednesday departures are usually cheaper than weekend flights, especially outside school holidays.
- Stay flexible on dates: Shifting your trip by even a day or two can unlock noticeably lower fares on the same route.
- Compare airlines and airports: Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways and Jet2 all serve different UK airports, so comparing routes side by side often reveals the best deal.
Travel essentials
UK passport holders do not need a visa for short trips to Italy, provided the stay is under 90 days within any 180-day period, and your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your return date. Italy uses the euro, so it's worth ordering some cash or using a fee-free card before you travel. A GHIC card is recommended for any necessary state healthcare while you're away, alongside standalone travel insurance.
