Quick Answer
Best way: Bus + Train via Poggibonsi. Total journey 1 hour 45 minutes – 2 hours, cost €14.80 – €18.50 (≈ $16.20 – $20.20). Take the Tiemme bus from San Gimignano to Poggibonsi station (20 min), then a Regionale train to Pisa Centrale (1h10min), and finally the Pisa Mover to the airport (5 min). This is the most reliable, year-round option with departures every 30–60 minutes. For a faster but pricier alternative, a taxi costs €90–130 (≈ $98–142) and takes 45–55 minutes. The cheapest option is a direct FlixBus from €9.99 (≈ $10.90), but services are limited and often require advance booking.
Train via Poggibonsi – The Most Reliable Route
San Gimignano does not have a train station. The nearest railway hub is Poggibonsi, located 10 km (6.2 miles) south. All train-based routes start with a short bus ride to Poggibonsi, followed by a Regionale train to Pisa Centrale, and conclude with the Pisa Mover automated people mover to the airport. This combination is the most frequent, reliable, and year-round public transport option.
Step-by-Step Journey
- Bus 130/131: San Gimignano (Piazza Montenana or Porta San Giovanni) → Poggibonsi Station. Duration: 18–22 minutes. Operator: Tiemme. Cost: €2.50 (≈ $2.70). Buses run every 30–60 minutes from 6:15 AM to 8:30 PM.
- Regionale Train: Poggibonsi → Pisa Centrale. Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes – 1 hour 20 minutes. Operator: Trenitalia. Cost: €9.60 (≈ $10.50). Trains depart roughly hourly.
- Pisa Mover: Pisa Centrale → Pisa Airport (PSA). Duration: 5 minutes. Operator: Pisa Mover. Cost: €2.70 (≈ $2.95). Frequency: every 5–10 minutes from 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM.
Route Comparison: Two Train Options
| Route | Total Time | Total Cost | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Via Poggibonsi (Recommended) | 1h45min – 2h | €14.80 – €15.50 (≈ $16.20–$16.90) | 2 (bus → train → Pisa Mover) | Most travellers; frequency & reliability |
| Via Florence (Alternative) | 2h30min – 3h | €22.50 – €28.00 (≈ $24.50–$30.50) | 2 (bus → train in Florence → Pisa Mover) | If Poggibonsi service is disrupted; scenic route |
Train Types & Seat Classes
Regionale trains on the Poggibonsi–Pisa line are single-deck electric units with 2+2 seating. They offer free seat selection (no reservation needed), overhead luggage racks, and a designated multifunction area for bicycles and large suitcases. First class is not available on Regionale trains; all carriages are standard class. Wi-Fi is not guaranteed. For a more comfortable ride, the Frecciarossa high-speed train is available from Florence to Pisa Centrale (€19.90, 50 minutes), but this only makes sense if you are already in Florence.
Luggage & Accessibility
Tiemme buses have underfloor luggage holds (max 1 large bag per person). Regionale trains have overhead racks (max 20 kg) and floor-level luggage areas near the doors. Pisa Mover is fully wheelchair accessible with level boarding. Travel tip: If you have more than one large suitcase, consider a taxi from Poggibonsi straight to Pisa Airport (€65–80, 40 minutes) instead of the train.
Official timetable links: Tiemme Bus Timetables | Trenitalia Train Schedules
Bus – Direct & Budget Options
Buses are the cheapest motorised option from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport, but services are less frequent and often require advance booking. There are two main bus strategies:
Option A: Direct FlixBus (Seasonal)
FlixBus operates a direct route from San Gimignano (Piazza Montenana) to Pisa Airport (PSA) during the tourist season (April–October) with 1–2 departures daily. Journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes – 1 hour 50 minutes. Price: from €9.99 (≈ $10.90) if booked 2+ weeks in advance; typical walk-up fare €14–18 (≈ $15.30–$19.60). Buses are modern, equipped with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard toilet. Note: Services are often suspended in low season (November–March).
Option B: Tiemme Bus + FlixBus/Train Hybrid
If direct FlixBus is not available, take the Tiemme bus from San Gimignano to Poggibonsi (€2.50, 20 min), then board a FlixBus from Poggibonsi to Pisa Airport. This connection runs year-round with 2–3 daily FlixBus departures. Total time: 2 hours – 2 hours 20 minutes. Total cost: from €10.50 (≈ $11.45) (bus €2.50 + FlixBus €8.00+).
Bus vs. Train: Quick Comparison
| Factor | Direct FlixBus | Bus + Train (via Poggibonsi) |
|---|---|---|
| Time | 1h30min – 1h50min | 1h45min – 2h |
| Price | €9.99 – €18.00 | €14.80 – €15.50 |
| Frequency | 1–2/day (seasonal) | Every 30–60 min (year-round) |
| Reliability | Moderate (weather & demand) | High (rail priority) |
| Luggage limit | 1 large + 1 carry-on | 1 large + 1 carry-on (bus); flexible on train |
Night Bus Service
There is no dedicated night bus from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport. The last Tiemme bus from San Gimignano to Poggibonsi departs around 8:30 PM, and the last Regionale train from Poggibonsi to Pisa Centrale leaves at about 9:15 PM. For late-night arrivals or early-morning flights (before 8 AM), a taxi or private transfer is the only viable option (see next section).
Pro tip: FlixBus tickets are cheapest when booked online at least 10 days in advance. Always check the FlixBus live timetable before planning your journey.
Taxi & Private Transfer – Door-to-Door Convenience
Taxis and private transfers are the most convenient but most expensive way to get from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport. They are ideal for groups, families with children, travellers with heavy luggage, or late-night/early-morning departures when public transport is not running.
Taxi Fares & Details
- Standard taxi (no booking): €90 – €110 (≈ $98 – $120). Journey time: 45–55 minutes. Available from taxi ranks in Piazza Duomo or Piazza Montenana. Always confirm the price before boarding – metered fares can vary.
- Pre-booked private transfer: €95 – €120 (≈ $104 – $131). Fixed price, meet-and-greet service, 60 minutes waiting time at pickup. Companies like Suntransfers and RomeCabs serve this route.
- Exec/minivan (4–8 pax): €130 – €170 (≈ $142 – $185). Suitable for groups with multiple suitcases.
When to Choose a Taxi
| Scenario | Recommendation | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Flight before 8:00 AM | Taxi essential | First bus leaves San Gimignano at 6:15 AM → arrives Pisa Airport ~8:00 AM – too late for check-in. |
| Flight after 10:00 PM | Taxi essential | Last Pisa Mover departs at 11:30 PM; last train from Poggibonsi ~9:15 PM. |
| Group of 3+ passengers | Taxi cost-effective | €90 split 3 ways = €30/person – comparable to train + bus. |
| Heavy/bulky luggage (2+ large suitcases per person) | Taxi recommended | Avoid struggling with bags on bus and train stairs. |
Booking Tips
Always pre-book for early-morning or late-night transfers to guarantee availability. Reputable platforms include GetTransfer and Welcome Pickups. Cancelation policies: most offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup. Warning: Unlicensed taxis may quote €150+ – use only licensed white taxis with a "TAXI" sign and meter.
Car Rental & Driving – Flexibility at a Price
Driving from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport gives you complete flexibility to explore the Tuscan countryside at your own pace. The route is straightforward, but parking costs and rental fees make this more expensive than public transport for solo travellers or couples.
Route & Driving Time
Distance: 72 km (45 miles). Duration: 45–55 minutes under normal conditions. Route: Take the SS429 north from San Gimignano towards Poggibonsi, then join the A12高速公路 (toll road) westbound towards Pisa. Exit at "Pisa Aeroporto". Toll cost: €4.20 (≈ $4.60) each way. Fuel cost: approximately €10–13 (≈ $11–14) for a standard petrol car.
Rental Costs & Options
| Rental Type | Daily Rate (incl. insurance) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Economy (Fiat 500, VW Up) | €35 – €50 (≈ $38–55) | Solo travellers or couples with light luggage |
| Compact (Fiat Tipo, VW Golf) | €45 – €65 (≈ $49–71) | Couples or small families |
| SUV / Estate (Skoda Octavia, Toyota C-HR) | €60 – €90 (≈ $65–98) | Families with bulky luggage or multiple bags |
Parking at Pisa Airport
- Short-stay (P1, P2): €2.50/hour; €20/day (≈ $2.70/hr; $21.80/day).
- Long-stay (P3, P4): €12/day (≈ $13.10/day) – shuttle bus to terminal every 15 minutes.
- VIP covered parking: €18/day (≈ $19.60/day) – book online for discount.
Total estimated cost for 1-week trip: rental €245–350 (≈ $267–381) + fuel €70 (≈ $76) + tolls €8.40 (≈ $9.20) + parking €84 (≈ $91.50) = €407–512 (≈ $444–558). For most travellers, the bus+train option (€14.80 one-way) is dramatically cheaper.
Recommended rental agencies: Auto Europe (comparison), Hertz, Avis. Pick-up locations in San Gimignano are limited; most rentals are from Poggibonsi or Florence.
Tickets & Cost Comparison – All Options at a Glance
This table summarises every major transport option from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport, including time, cost, and key trade-offs. Use it to make your final decision.
| Option | Total Time | Cost (One Way) | Cost (Round Trip) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus + Train (via Poggibonsi) ⭐ | 1h45min – 2h | €14.80 – €15.50 (≈ $16.20–$16.90) | €29.60 – €31.00 (≈ $32.40–$33.90) | 2 | Most travellers; best balance of cost & reliability |
| Direct FlixBus (seasonal) | 1h30min – 1h50min | €9.99 – €18.00 (≈ $10.90–$19.60) | €19.98 – €36.00 (≈ $21.80–$39.30) | 0 | Budget travellers; advance booking required |
| Tiemme Bus + FlixBus (hybrid) | 2h – 2h20min | €10.50 – €15.00 (≈ $11.45–$16.40) | €21.00 – €30.00 (≈ $22.90–$32.70) | 1 | Year-round budget option when direct FlixBus unavailable |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 45 – 55 min | €90 – €130 (≈ $98–$142) | €180 – €260 (≈ $196–$284) | 0 | Groups, late/early flights, heavy luggage |
| Car Rental (1 day) | 45 – 55 min (drive) | €55 – €95 (≈ $60–$104) incl. rental + fuel + toll | €110 – €190 (≈ $120–$207) | 0 | Day-trippers; those exploring Tuscany |
⭐ Best overall value: Bus + Train via Poggibonsi – costs €14.80–€15.50 one-way, runs every 30–60 minutes year-round, and is reliable even in bad weather. Cheapest guaranteed option: Tiemme Bus + FlixBus hybrid from €10.50 (≈ $11.45).
Where to Buy Tickets
- Tiemme bus tickets: Buy at tabacchi shops in San Gimignano or on board (cash only). Single ride €2.50. Tiemme official site.
- Trenitalia train tickets: Online at Trenitalia, via the app, or at station vending machines. Regionale tickets are valid for 4 hours after validation and cost €9.60.
- Pisa Mover tickets: Vending machines at Pisa Centrale or contactless card tap. €2.70 single. Pisa Mover official site.
- FlixBus: Online via FlixBus or app. Advance booking recommended.
- Taxi/Transfer: Pre-book via Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer.
Traveler Tips & Experience – Insider Advice
After hundreds of journeys along this route, here are real-world tips to make your trip smoother, cheaper, and less stressful.
🚉 Poggibonsi Station – Know Before You Go
Poggibonsi station is small and unstaffed during off-peak hours. There is a ticket vending machine (cash and card) and a small waiting room. No left-luggage office. If you have a long wait, the bar across the street (Bar Stazione) does excellent €1.30 espresso. Watch your belongings – petty theft occurs occasionally.
🧳 Luggage Strategy – Use Takkyubin (Baggage Delivery)
If you have more than one large suitcase, consider using a luggage delivery service like Baggage Home or Luggage Free. They collect your bags from your San Gimignano hotel and deliver them to Pisa Airport for €25–35 per bag (≈ $27–38). This lets you travel hands-free on the bus and train. Book at least 48 hours in advance.
⏰ Peak Season Warning – Book Ahead
In July, August, and September, San Gimignano is packed with tourists. Buses and trains can be crowded, especially between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Book FlixBus tickets at least 1 week in advance and arrive at the bus stop 10 minutes early. For trains, buy your ticket online to avoid queues at the vending machine.
🌧️ Weather Considerations
Heavy rain or fog can delay buses by 10–20 minutes and make driving on the SS429 slower. The train route is rarely affected by weather. In winter (December–February), check Tiemme alerts for possible service disruptions.
🍷 One-Hour Rule – Don't Miss the Last Bus
The last Tiemme bus from San Gimignano to Poggibonsi departs around 8:30 PM. If you miss it, a taxi from San Gimignano to Poggibonsi station costs about €25–30 (≈ $27–33). From there you can still catch the last train to Pisa (around 9:15 PM). After that, only a full taxi to the airport (€90+) remains.
📱 Useful Apps for This Route
- Trenitalia App – real-time train tracking and ticket purchase.
- FlixBus App – mobile ticket and live bus location.
- Google Maps – local bus schedules (often accurate for Tiemme).
- Moovit – excellent for real-time bus arrivals in Tuscany.
Reader story: "We took the bus+train route with two kids and a stroller. The Tiemme driver helped us fold the stroller, and the Regionale train had a luggage area near the doors. Total stress was low. Cost us €14.80 each – can't beat that." – Sarah, UK, travelled June 2024.
FAQs: San Gimignano to Pisa Airport – Everything You Need to Know
Is there a direct train from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport?
No. San Gimignano has no train station. The nearest station is Poggibonsi, 10 km away. You must take a Tiemme bus (20 min, €2.50) to Poggibonsi, then a Regionale train to Pisa Centrale (1h10min, €9.60), and finally the Pisa Mover to the airport (5 min, €2.70). Total journey time is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. This is the most reliable public transport option year-round.
What is the cheapest way to get from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport?
The cheapest guaranteed option is the bus+train combo via Poggibonsi: Tiemme bus (€2.50) + Regionale train (€9.60) + Pisa Mover (€2.70) = €14.80 (≈ $16.20). When available, a direct FlixBus can be cheaper from €9.99 (≈ $10.90), but services are seasonal and require advance booking. Always book FlixBus at least 10 days ahead for the lowest fare.
What is the fastest way to get from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport?
The fastest option is a taxi or private transfer, taking 45–55 minutes and costing €90–130 (≈ $98–142). For public transport, the bus+train via Poggibonsi is fastest at about 1 hour 45 minutes. Driving yourself takes roughly 50 minutes via the SS429 and A12 motorway (toll €4.20).
How far is San Gimignano from Pisa Airport?
The driving distance is approximately 72 km (45 miles) via the SS429 and A12. The straight-line distance is about 55 km (34 miles). The train route (bus+rail) covers roughly 85 km (53 miles) due to the routing via Poggibonsi and Pisa Centrale. Driving time is 45–55 minutes in normal traffic.
Can I use a taxi or private transfer from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport?
Yes. Taxis are available from ranks in San Gimignano (Piazza Duomo, Piazza Montenana). Standard fare: €90–€130 (≈ $98–$142). Pre-booked private transfers offer fixed rates from €95 (≈ $104). This option is recommended for groups of 3+ passengers, early-morning flights (before 8:00 AM), late-night arrivals (after 9:00 PM), or travellers with heavy luggage. Licensed white taxis with a meter are reliable; always confirm the price beforehand.
What time does the first and last bus leave from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport?
The first Tiemme bus from San Gimignano to Poggibonsi departs around 6:15 AM; the last around 8:30 PM. The first Regionale train from Poggibonsi to Pisa Centrale leaves about 6:45 AM; the last around 9:15 PM. Pisa Mover operates from 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM. For flights departing before 8:00 AM, a taxi is essential as public transport will not get you to the airport in time.
Is it better to take the train or a bus from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport?
For most travellers, the train via Poggibonsi is better: it runs every 30–60 minutes year-round, is unaffected by weather, and offers a reliable 1h45min journey. The direct FlixBus is cheaper (from €9.99) but seasonal and limited to 1–2 departures daily. If you are on a tight budget and can book ahead, FlixBus is a good alternative. For flexibility and speed, a taxi is best.
How do I get from San Gimignano to Pisa Airport with luggage?
With standard luggage (1 large + 1 carry-on), the bus+train route is manageable. Tiemme buses have underfloor luggage compartments; Regionale trains have overhead racks and floor-level luggage areas near the doors. For heavy or bulky luggage (2+ large suitcases), consider a taxi (€90–130) or use a luggage delivery service like Baggage Home (€25–35 per bag). The Pisa Mover is fully accessible with level boarding.