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How to get from Pisa Airport to Lucca?

Sep 16
3 min read

Lucca is one of the closest historic Tuscan towns to Pisa Airport, which makes it an easy first or last stop on any Tuscany itinerary. Here's exactly how to get from the airport to Lucca's city walls, with every option compared.


The easiest way from Pisa Airport to Lucca is by train.


Option 1: Train (Best for Budget and Simplicity)

There's no direct train from the airport itself. Pisa Airport's small station connects to Pisa Centrale via the PisaMover, an automated shuttle that takes about 5 minutes and runs every 5–8 minutes.


From Pisa Centrale, regional trains to Lucca run roughly every 30–60 minutes throughout the day, with the ride itself taking 25–30 minutes.


How it works, step by step:

  1. From the airport terminal, follow signs for "PisaMover" (a short walk).

  2. Buy a PisaMover ticket (around €3.60) and ride to Pisa Centrale.

  3. At Pisa Centrale, buy a regional train ticket to Lucca (around €3.50–5).

  4. Board the next Lucca-bound regional train — check the departure board for "Lucca" as the destination or a stop along the route.

  5. Arrive at Lucca station, just outside the city walls, a short walk from the historic centre.


Total cost: roughly €7–9

Total time: 45–60 minutes, including the connection

Good for: solo travelers, couples, budget-conscious trips, anyone traveling light


Option 2: Taxi or Private Transfer (Best for Speed and Convenience)

A taxi takes you door to door in about 30–40 minutes, with no train changes or luggage-carrying involved. This is the most convenient option if you're arriving late at night, traveling with a lot of luggage, or simply want a stress-free start to your trip.


  • Estimated cost: €50–70, depending on time of day and traffic

  • Booking tip: pre-book a private transfer online if you're arriving late or want a fixed price agreed in advance; airport taxi ranks are also available on arrival

  • Good for: families, late-night arrivals, groups splitting the cost


Option 3: Rental Car (Best for Exploring Tuscany)

Driving from Pisa Airport to Lucca takes about 25–30 minutes via the A11 motorway, and all major rental companies operate directly from the airport.


Keep in mind: Lucca's historic centre is a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone), so you won't be able to drive right up to most accommodations inside the walls — you'll need to park just outside and walk or use short-term unloading access if your accommodation allows it.


If you are travelling by car, we recommend the following parking options: Via delle Tagliate, a free public parking within easy walking distance, ideal for longer stays; or if you prefer a convenient paid parking option close to the historic centre: Palatucci parking (just outside Porta San Donato) and Piazzale Verdi parking. From all parking areas, Casa Capolino is easily reachable on foot through Lucca’s beautiful historic streets.


  • Estimated cost: varies by rental company and season; plus fuel and parking

  • Good for: travelers planning day trips to Pisa, Florence, or the Tuscan countrysid


Option 4: Bus

A regional bus connects Pisa to Lucca, though it runs far less frequently than the train (roughly every 3–4 hours) and takes 40–45 minutes. Given the train's speed and frequency, the bus is rarely the better choice from the airport specifically, but it's worth knowing about as a backup.


Arriving at Casa Capolino

When you arrive, Lucca's train station sits just outside the city walls, a short and easy walk to the historic centre.


From the station, it's about a 10–15 minute walk (or a quick taxi ride) to Casa Capolino, tucked inside the walls near the Anfiteatro and Torre Guinigi. If you're driving, the nearest ZTL-free parking areas are a few minutes' walk from the apartment — full directions are sent to every guest ahead of arrival. The flat is also easily reachable by bus from Lucca station.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a direct train from Pisa Airport to Lucca? No. You will take the PisaMover shuttle from the airport to Pisa Centrale station first, then transfer to a regional train to Lucca. The full connection takes about 45–60 minutes.


How much does it cost to get from Pisa Airport to Lucca? By train, expect to pay around €7–9 total (PisaMover plus regional train). A taxi costs roughly €50–70, while a rental car depends on the company and season.


How far is Lucca from Pisa Airport? About 20–25 km (12–15 miles), roughly a 25–30 minute drive or a 45–60 minute train journey including the connection.


What's the fastest way from Pisa Airport to Lucca? A taxi or private transfer is the fastest door-to-door option at around 30–40 minutes, though renting a car can be similar if traffic is light.




 
 
 

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