After the Maratona dell'Isola d'Elba: Pisa

The Route: Marina di Campo → Portoferraio → Piombino → Pisa → Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA) Logistics: Bus 116 to the port, a ferry of about 70 minutes, then a transfer to Pisa. Check every leg. Marathon Month: May Duration: 1 night

Marina di Campo ──(bus 116)──> Portoferraio ──(ferry, about 70 mins)──> Piombino ──(road or rail)──> Pisa ──> PSA

The Maratona dell'Isola d'Elba finishes in Marina di Campo on a Sunday, and getting off the island is a chain of connections: bus, ferry, then a mainland leg. The ferry from Portoferraio to Piombino is run by Blunavy, Moby and Toremar and takes about 70 minutes, and the organiser says departures run about every 30 minutes from May to September. Book a sailing in advance, because vehicle space in May is limited, and keep a margin in case weather changes the schedule.

May in Pisa is warm and busy with tour groups, especially around the Leaning Tower, so book a room early. The city itself is flat, which suits sore legs.

Night one: Pisa

The Piazza dei Miracoli, the lawn that holds the cathedral, baptistery and leaning bell tower, is the obvious stop. The grass is flat, and there are benches along the edges. Timed tickets are sold for the tower climb, and a climb after a marathon is a poor idea, so book one only if the stairs are not a worry. Check prices and hours on the official site.

The evening walk along the Arno is level, and the old centre around Borgo Stretto has arcades and small restaurants. Tuscan fish dishes are common on menus, and the Elba weekend may leave you wanting something simple.

Where to stay

Choose a hotel near Pisa Centrale station or inside the walled centre. Both are flat and easy on legs. Book a refundable room because the ferry is the weak link.

Getting Home

Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA) connects to the city by a short rail link and by taxi. Check the current service and first departures for an early flight.