Among the airports in Tuscany, which is the best for your Italy trip? The choice is hard, as it depends on your itinerary and needs. Tuscany, also known as “the cradle of the Renaissance” (from the Italian “la culla del Rinascimento”), is definitely a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the charm and culture of the Bel Paese.
Tuscany is easily reachable by plane thanks to its multiple airports, whether you are traveling from abroad or not. You can see impressive works of art at the Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Pitti by landing at Amerigo Vespucci Airport (with domestic and international flights guaranteed) or walk through the vibrant Pisa by arriving at Galileo Galilei Airport. Nearby Tuscan towns are also equipped with minor but functional airfields.
Keep reading the article to find out more about airports in Tuscany, how to fly directly there, and how to save money when booking your flight ticket.
What are the Airports of Tuscany?
Tuscany has numerous airports, some specialized in tourist traffic and others in private aviation. Take a look at all the available options and choose where to land!
1. Florence – Amerigo Vespucci Airport
The Amerigo Vespucci Airport, commonly known as “Firenze Peretola”, is the only airport in Florence. Just 3 miles away from the city center, it guarantees international flights and covers many important routes – both with major and low-cost airlines.
Moreover, it is very busy with more than 3 million passengers registered each year. This is the ideal option for those who are planning a stop at the historic center of Florence and adjacent smaller villages.
From here, you can reach the city by taxi (the ride might cost around 17$) or public transport. This airport offers a shuttle bus (the ticket costs 4$ circa), which will lead you to the Santa Maria Novella train station, quite close to the main attractions.
2. Pisa – Galileo Galilei Airport
The Galileo Galilei Airport, officially named “Aeroporto Intercontinentale di Pisa-San Giusto”, is considered the busiest airport of Tuscany as it registers more than 5 million passengers per year.
Furthermore, it allows you to reach the center of Pisa and northern Tuscany towns (Lucca, Florence and Viareggio) in less than 1 hour thanks to the multiple means of transport offered.
You can rent a car, take a local bus or a People Mover. The latter is an automatic shuttle, which will bring you to Pisa Centrale station in less than 5 minutes. Absolutely the best option if you are traveling from Europe or the USA.
3. Lucca – Capannori Airport
The 87 hectares Capannori Airport, based in Lucca, was opened on November 29th, 1932. Initially used as a military airfield, it is now an international airport, which is an extraordinary stopover point for visitors.
This is because of its proximity to Lucca’s center and its attractions (Duomo di San Martino, Puccini Museum, and Piazza Grande). To reach the center, indeed, taxis will drive along the A11 highway for a few minutes.
Be aware that the airport is open (to national traffic) the whole week but Monday and Tuesday.
4. Arezzo – Molin Bianco Airport
The Molin Bianco Airport, located just 2 miles away from Arezzo, is absolutely the quintessential choice for those who are planning on visiting the west side of Tuscany.
Indeed, from this national airport, you can reach the center of Arezzo in less than 10 minutes by car. Don’t forget this is mostly open to national air traffic.
5. Elba Island – Marina di Campo Airport
Just 1 mile from La Pila in southern Elba, Marina di Campo Airport is a good alternative for those who decided to spend their holidays on Elba Island.
This airport is known for being primarily open to commercial traffic but it guarantees passenger flights to Florence, Pisa, and Switzerland.
Opened in 1963, it is equipped with multiple kiosks and bars (on the inside) and a taxi team.
6. Massa – Cinquale Airport
Forte dei Marmi buffs will love the nearby Cinquale Airport, located in Massa.
It is known for being a national airport with tourist commercial flights. Opened in 1912, this airfield is also equipped with multiple taxi or car rental services, bars, and hotels with adjacent beaches.
7. Grosseto Airport
The Grosseto Airport, also named “Aeroporto della Maremma Corrado Baccarini”, is the best choice for those who want to stop at Maremma Grossetana’s towns and it is mainly used for military and private flights.
Nevertheless, during summertime, it guarantees stopovers to the UK and Poland.
Always remember that the airport hosts just one terminal – both for departures and arrivals – where there are many services included for its travelers such as parking lots, duty-free shops, bars and so much more.
Read more: Grosseto – The Underrated Coastal Treasure of Italy
8. Siena – Ampugnano Airport
The Ampugnano Airport, just 8 miles away from the center of Siena, is not a common airfield as it is used mostly for private flights, rarely commercial ones. However, it looks quite busy with more than 5000 travelers registered per year.
Read more: How to Get to Tuscany – The Smart Traveler’s Guide
FAQs About Airports in Tuscany
Here are the most frequently asked questions:
What is the Biggest Airport in Tuscany?
The biggest airport in Tuscany is Galileo Galilei Airport, located in Pisa. This one, only 49 miles apart from Amerigo Vespucci Airport, welcomes thousands of travelers every day.
What are the Most Significant International Airports in Tuscany, Italy?
The biggest international airports in Tuscany are the Galileo Galilei Airport (based in Pisa) and the Amerigo Vespucci Airport, which is only 3 miles away from the center of Florence.
Can you Fly Directly to Tuscany, Italy?
Yes, you can (especially during the summer season). However, if you are flying from the USA be aware that there are no direct flights to Florence or Pisa in winter and you might consider landing at nearby airports – for example at Rome Fiumicino airport – and then taking a second flight or a train/bus to your destination.
Is it Cheaper to Fly to Pisa or Florence?
It depends on your necessities. Generally, it might be cheaper to fly to Pisa as its airport guarantees direct flights – both domestic and intercontinental – from major countries and airlines.
Conclusion
Wrapping up, Tuscany’s array of airports, from Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci to Pisa’s Galileo Galilei and the secluded Ampugnano in Siena, cater to a wide range of travelers, each offering unique gateways into the heart of Italy. Whether you’re drawn to the Renaissance splendor of Florence, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or the rustic charm of Siena, these airports facilitate your journey into the region’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Choosing the right airport hinges on your travel plans, promising a seamless entry into Tuscany’s wonders.
