Okay so I just got back from dropping my cousin off at Pisa Airport and man, I wish I knew this stuff earlier. Thought I’d dump my notes here since everyone asks about airport transfers. Here’s exactly how it went down:
The Bus Disaster Attempt
First try was the bus because Google Maps said it’d be easy. Big mistake. Walked 20 minutes to the bus stop near Piazza Manin with luggage rolling behind me like some clueless tourist. Driver waves us off shouting “full! full!” while pointing at the packed bus. Cousin almost missed his flight right there. Sweating bullets trying to flag a taxi.
What I learned:
- Don’t trust bus schedules during summer – tourists pile up like sardines
- The 30-minute bus ride? More like 50 minutes with stops
- Exact cash only – driver wouldn’t take my 20 euro note
Taxi Savior Moment
Grabbed a cab near Ponte di Mezzo after panicking for 10 minutes. Driver was this old Italian dude chewing gum who didn’t speak English. Just grunted “dove?” (where?) when we jumped in. Whole ride he’s muttering about traffic while weaving through vespas. Took exactly 13 minutes but cost 15 freaking euros! At least he helped with bags.
Train Option I Tested Later
Went back solo to test the train cause y’all know I’m extra. Walked from airport to Pisa Centrale station – took me 7 minutes dragging my carry-on. Bought tickets from the yellow machine (avoided the long queue at counter). Train was cleaner than expected but seats were sticky. Only 1.80 euro and arrived in 5 minutes flat. Mind blown.
Final thoughts? If you’re not drowning in luggage and hate spending money, just take the damn train. But if you’ve got giant suitcases or running late, bite the bullet for taxi. And always – ALWAYS – give yourself extra time. Almost got stranded twice just writing this!
