Arriving in Pisa on a Sunday: Money and Transportation Questions

Yes--sorry. Flying into Pisa airport just before noon on a Sunday. I have read on some of the message boards that it might be more difficult to get cash at an ATM on Sundays--just wondered whether that is true and whether we should get some Euros here just in case.

ATMs don't close. If on the odd chance one's empty, cross the street.

The leaning tower is a 25-30 minute walk from the train station. We're seniors so younger people could probaby do this quicker. You can also take the bus that leaves from across the street from the train station or take a taxi. That will make the trip quicker.

Thanks for all of your help. I really appreciate the advice!

So, would it be a good idea to go from the Pisa airport to the tower (maybe in a taxi), and then back to the train station. Or should we try to rent a locker for our bags at the train station before going to the tower? And, how large are the lockers at the train stations? How often do the trains run from Pisa to CT? And will we need to change trains in La Spezia?

As far as money goes, I was just concerned about daily limits, but I am checking with my bank on that. Are there other places where you can exchange US dollars in Pisa (exchange booths, etc.)?

Myself, I felt better having some cash in my pocket when I landed.

I would think there would be an ATM in Monterosso but don't remember specificly seeing one. I know there is one in Riomaggiore by the Zorza hotel.

Laura,
This should ease your concern about finding ATMs. http://visa.via.infonow.net/locator/global/
There are plenty in Pisa and even in Monterosso.
Most knowledgeable travellers would not use a credit card at an ATM because it is a cash advance that usually means immediate fees and high interest rates. ATM or debit cards are a better option at ATMs.

There is a train from the airport to the station in Pisa - about 15 mins as I recall, from there you can easily walk to the tower. I do not recall luggage lockers at the station, but I there could be.

I stayed in Monterosso, and hiked the cinque terre starting there. There are atm's around, even close to the train station.

I don't remember seeing luggage lockers at the Pisa train station, it's small.

It's easy to hop on the train from monterosso, and go to Pisa. I would try to leave luggage at the hotel you are staying at.

You can walk from the pisa train station to the tower. Try to get a map, but it is a good 20-30 minute walk.

Pisa also has several atm's around. Most locals are gone to the beach, but some things are still open in the tourist area.

Anything else, let me know!

Oh, a great bed and breakfast in Pisa is 5 roses. On booking.com it was around 85 a night, and easy to walk to from the train station.

Laura,
When I visited Pisa there was a manned left-luggage office at the train station, but the luggage handlers were on strike that day so the office was closed. Local hotels near the station were very unfriendly because we were day trippers and had no reservation, so they refused to hold our bags for a few hours, even if we offered to pay them.

The walk from the station to the tower was 20 min. or so, even with our two backpacks slung up on my back. For about $5 we could have taken a taxi instead. If at all possible, find a place to stow your baggage as I don't believe you can get into the Tower or the Baptistery with baggage. Worst case scenario you can do what we did: pose for the picture in front of the tower and then visit the Baptistery solo while the other person watched the bags outside.

My experience in Pisa is from several years ago, so it may have changed, but perhaps not.