Train service
NTV
Italo (NTV) is Italy’s first private high-speed rail operator, offering a competitive alternative to Trenitalia since 2012.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
For traveling by train from Rome to Pisa, the Interrail Global Pass and the Interrail One Country Pass for Italy are valid options as long as the traveler is not a resident of Italy. The Eurail Pass is also valid for this trip, provided the traveler is not a resident of the European Union. Residents of Italy cannot use the Interrail Passes for domestic travel within Italy, such as from Rome to Pisa.
Getting around
Upon arriving in Pisa by train at Pisa Centrale, a main way to get around the city is by using the local bus service operated by Compagnia Pisana Trasporti (CPT). These buses can take you to various parts of the city, including popular destinations like the Leaning Tower of Pisa at Piazza dei Miracoli. There is no tram or metro system in Pisa, so buses are the primary form of public transportation. Besides public buses, you can also use taxis, which are readily available at the train station and around the city. Taxi fares within Pisa are generally reasonable, and they provide a convenient alternative for quicker or more direct routes not easily accessed by bus. Ridesharing options like Uber are not widely available in Pisa, so it’s best to rely on traditional taxi services for ridesharing needs. For those who enjoy cycling, Pisa is quite bike-friendly, and bicycle rentals are available, offering a pleasant way to explore the city center and surrounding areas at your own pace.
Onward connections
Pisa is well-connected by train to various national and international destinations, making it a convenient hub for travelers. Domestically, one of the most popular rail connections from Pisa is to Florence, which is approximately an hour away by regional or InterCity trains. High-speed trains such as Frecciarossa and Frecciargento can also be taken from nearby Florence for further connections. Travelers can reach Rome in about three hours by taking a high-speed train such as the Frecciargento from Florence. Another key route is to Milan, which can be reached in about four hours with high-speed services. Traveling west, trains connect Pisa to La Spezia, a gateway to the picturesque Cinque Terre, in about an hour. Heading north, the rail connection to Genoa takes approximately two hours. Internationally, travelers looking to visit Switzerland can reach major Swiss cities like Zurich by transferring in Milan. Another interesting international connection is to the French Riviera, where one can travel to cities such as Nice by first reaching Genoa and then changing trains. For those venturing further, connections to Paris are possible via Turin with high-speed trains from Milan. The Pisa Centrale station serves as the primary hub, offering frequent departures and facilitating easy travel across Italy and beyond.
Best time to visit
The best months to visit Pisa are typically April to June and September to October. During these spring and early autumn periods, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring outdoor attractions like the Piazza dei Miracoli, including the famous Leaning Tower. In spring, you can also enjoy the vibrant scenery as flowers bloom along the Arno River. These months offer a good balance between favorable weather and lower tourist crowds compared to the peak summer months, leading to more reasonable accommodation prices.
If you are interested in local festivals, visit Pisa in June to experience the Luminara di San Ranieri on June 16th, where the city is illuminated by thousands of candles, or the Regatta of San Ranieri on June 17th, a traditional boat race on the Arno River. Prices tend to be higher during peak summer in July and August due to increased tourist volumes and potential heat spells can make travel less comfortable. Arriving by train is convenient as Pisa is well connected and the train station, Pisa Centrale, is centrally located, making it easy to access the city's attractions.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Rome to Pisa?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices from Rome to Pisa are dynamic. Ticket demand significantly impacts prices. Popular travel times may increase costs. Advance booking often results in lower prices. Different travel classes offer varied price points. Promotional offers can temporarily affect pricing. Competition among train operators influences fares. Passenger age and status can qualify for discounts. Pricing can change with special events or holidays.
What trains run from Rome to Pisa?
Trenitalia operates trains from Rome to Pisa. NTV does not operate trains on the Rome to Pisa route. Flixbus operates buses from Rome to Pisa.
How long does the train from Rome to Pisa take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Rome to Pisa takes between 2.5 and 3 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Rome to Pisa?
Avoid peak travel times for a quieter journey. Early mornings often have fewer passengers. Midweek days can be less crowded. Tickets are usually cheaper outside tourist seasons. Booking in advance helps secure better prices. Consider local events for potential crowd variations. Traveling during regional holidays can be busier. Check for maintenance schedules that may affect routes.
What’s the best route or train to take from Rome to Pisa?
Trenitalia runs direct train services from Rome to Pisa. Flixbus operates direct bus services from Rome to Pisa.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Rome to Pisa?
According to EveryRail, the One Country Pass is valid for the route from Rome to Pisa. Both cities are within Italy. This pass applies to travel within a single country.