The closest train station to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa is Pisa San Rossore, which is approximately 1.5 kilometers (about 0.93 miles) away. While Pisa Centrale is the city's main and most famous station, it is not the most direct option for reaching the Tower on foot.
Distance to the Leaning Tower from Pisa's Train Stations
Pisa is served by two primary train stations relevant to visitors heading to the Leaning Tower: Pisa San Rossore and Pisa Centrale.
Pisa San Rossore: The Closest Option
Pisa San Rossore is the most convenient station for those looking to minimize their walk to the Leaning Tower. Located just 1.5 km (a brisk 15-20 minute walk) from the Piazza dei Miracoli, where the Tower stands, it offers the quickest pedestrian access. This station is smaller but perfectly situated for direct access to Pisa's most famous landmark.
Pisa Centrale: The Main Hub
Pisa Centrale is the city's main railway station, offering connections to major Italian cities. While it is more famous and typically where most long-distance travelers arrive, it is further from the Leaning Tower than Pisa San Rossore. From Pisa Centrale, the Leaning Tower is roughly a 2.5 to 3 km walk, which can take about 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, visitors can take a local bus or a taxi from Pisa Centrale to the Tower.
Comparing Pisa's Train Stations
To help you decide which station best suits your travel plans, here's a quick comparison:
| Station Name | Proximity to Leaning Tower | Distance (Approx.) | Convenience for Direct Access | Main Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pisa San Rossore | Closest | 1.5 km | High | Smaller station, ideal for walking to the Tower |
| Pisa Centrale | Further | 2.5 - 3 km | Moderate (requires more walking/transport) | Main hub, connections to major cities |
Getting to the Leaning Tower
Regardless of which station you arrive at, reaching the Leaning Tower is straightforward:
- From Pisa San Rossore: Simply exit the station and follow signs towards the Leaning Tower. The walk is pleasant and usually takes less than 20 minutes. You can view the walking route on a map service like Google Maps.
- From Pisa Centrale: You have a few options:
- Walk: A longer but scenic walk through the city center.
- Bus: Local buses frequently run from Pisa Centrale to the Piazza dei Miracoli. Look for LAM Rossa (Red Line) buses.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the station.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a fair amount of walking, especially if arriving at Pisa Centrale.
- Luggage: Consider leaving larger luggage at a luggage storage facility if you plan to visit the Tower directly upon arrival, as large bags may not be allowed inside some attractions.
- Tickets: It's advisable to book your Leaning Tower tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.
