The Tuscany region is home to some of the leading cities to visit. Italy being Italy, driving there is a different experience to what you may be accustomed to. Today we tell you some tips for driving in Pisa to make the most of your trip.
Driving in Pisa: the best way to discover Italy
Pisa is known for its iconic leaning tower, but this isn't the only attraction by any means. It is nestled in the heart of Tuscany, a region that also includes cities such as Florence, its cultural and political capital, and Siena.
As a city, it makes for an excellent starting point to explore the natural landscapes, medieval villages and vineyards in this area. However, if you want to be able to reach any corner with great freedom, a rental car is the most comfortable and flexible means of transportation. Getting around under your own steam, not having to depend on train and bus timetables, and reaching places a little further afield sounds like a real holiday to us.
Driving around Pisa will lead you to discover lesser-known cities such as Lucca, Volterra or San Gimignano. All of these involve short but scenic routes. In addition, if you arrive by plane, you can rent your car directly at Pisa International Airport where OK Mobility has a branch very close to the terminal. And if you're on a big trip and heading back from the other side of Italy, there are also branches in Rome and Milan.
What you need to keep in mind is that Pisa has its unique peculiarities:
- The historic centre has Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL) where only authorised vehicles can go.
- The signs are all there, but if you are not super attentive, you might be looking at an automatic fine.
- This is compounded by rush hour traffic and the need to adapt to the local driving style, which can sometimes be more expressive than other areas.
Tips for driving in Pisa like a local
With a little preparation and some patience, driving in Pisa can be very rewarding. So that there are no surprises and you can get around like a local, here are some tips.
Avoid ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones)
Pisa city centre is full of streets where only residents, taxis or authorised vehicles can use. ZTLs are controlled by cameras and if you enter without permission, the fine, which is sent straight to your home, is not cheap. They are well signposted, but it is advisable to use apps like Waze or Google Maps, which usually warn you of these areas. If your accommodation is within a ZTL zone, check with them to see if they can register your number plate for you to have access.
Park wisely
Finding free parking in the centre is an almost impossible task. The most common option is paid parking in car parks, like the ones in Via Cammeo or Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. Both are close to the touristy areas. If you prefer something more economical, look for pay-by-the-hour zones, with blue lines, or car parks on the outskirts with shuttle bus connections to the centre. Avoid the yellow lines, which are reserved, and the white lines, which are for residents only in some areas.
Be wary of the Italian driving style
Driving in Pisa and in many Italian cities is a whole new experience. Drivers may seem impatient or chaotic, but in reality they follow their own unwritten code. So use your indicators, keep calm if someone honks their horn (which is quite common), and don't be surprised if you are overtaken. The trick is to drive decisively, but attentively.
Respect speed limits and rules of the road
Although local people may seem to drive as if there were no limits, they do exist. In fact, you will often find fixed and mobile speed cameras, especially in urban areas and accesses to dual carriageways. Pisa is a small city, but even so there are quite a few speed checkpoints and your GPS may not always mark them. In the city, the speed limit is usually 50km/h and 90km/h on secondary roads. Never use your mobile phone at the wheel and remember that seat belts are mandatory for all occupants.
Rent a suitable car
You don't need an SUV or a huge car to get around Pisa and Tuscany. And considering that it is a touristy area, the more compact, the better. Keep in mind that the streets are narrow and the parking spaces are small. As an added bonus, you will use less fuel as well.
Smooth driving with OK Mobility
Driving in Pisa may seem challenging, but by following these tips you won't have any problems. Renting a car in Pisa with OK Mobility, with pick-up and drop-off near the airport, will save you time and offer a hassle-free start to your trip. In addition, you can choose from several models adapted to your needs, from small city cars to options with more space if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group. Don't miss out on your perfect rental car!
post