Florence is accessible by air through its compact airport or nearby Pisa for low-cost options, with seamless train or bus links to the historic center. High-speed trains and buses connect major European cities.
By Air:
Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR) – Florence: This small, modern airport is located just 5 km (3 miles) from Florence's city center.
To City Center
- Tram T2: exit the arrivals area and follow the signs to the tram stop, which is a 5-minute walk away. This tram line connects directly to the main train station, Santa Maria Novella (SMN), as well as the nearby Unità tram stop. Trams run frequently, every 5 to 10 minutes, from 5 AM to 12:30 AM. The travel time is approximately 20 minutes. Tickets are €2 and can be purchased at machines (accepting cash and card) or through the TABNET app.
- Bus: from the bus stops outside arrivals, take the Volainbus or ATAF lines to Santa Maria Novella. The bus runs every 30 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the Giunti bookstore in the airport or directly on the bus.
- Taxis: Official white taxis are available from the ranks outside arrivals; they operate 24/7 and can accommodate up to 4 passengers. Fixed rates apply for trips to the city center (approximately €22–€26), with additional charges for nighttime, holidays, and luggage. The journey typically takes about 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Ride-Shares: Bolt, Uber, and FreeNow can be accessed from the parking area, as directed by the app. The fare to the city center ranges from €20 to €30 and takes about 15 minutes, with potential surges during peak times. It’s advisable to book your ride after landing. A cheaper alternative to taxis.
Pisa International Airport (PSA), also known as Galileo Galilei Airport, is a popular low-cost hub located about 80 km (50 miles) west of the city of Florence.
- PisaMover shuttle + train: The PisaMover monorail connects Pisa Airport to Pisa Centrale train station in just 5 minutes. From Pisa Centrale, you can catch frequent trains to Florence's Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station. Regional trains typically take about 50 to 80 minutes for the journey. The total cost for this trip is approximately €15, which includes around €5 for the PisaMover and about €10 for the train ticket. Tickets can be purchased at machines or through the Trenitalia app, and you can pay with cash or a card. This option offers a scenic and reliable route, but make sure to check the schedules.
- Bus: You can take either Terravision or Autostradale buses from the stands outside the arrivals section to Santa Maria Novella. The buses will either stop at the "Guidoni" stop on the T2 tram line or at the Santa Maria Novella train station, depending on the service you choose. Tickets usually cost between €15 and €20, and the journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Tickets can be purchased online or onboard (cash or card accepted), making it a direct and budget-friendly option.
- Taxis or Ride-shares: €150-200 for a taxi to Florence (approximately 60 minutes), available from ranks; service is 24/7.
By Train:
High-speed and regional trains connect Florence to major cities across Italy and Europe.
Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) is the main train station in Florence, conveniently located within walking distance of most attractions. It offers frequent, high-speed trains from Trenitalia and Italo that connect Florence with Rome in approximately 1.5 hours and Milan in about 2 hours. You can also travel by train from many European cities, usually with transfers in Milan, Rome, or Bologna.
By Bus:
Long-distance buses offer an alternative to trains for both domestic and international travel, often at a lower cost.
You can find FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus services at the Santa Maria Novella or Firenze Guidoni terminals.
In Florence, the historic city center is very walkable, making public transport less essential for sightseeing but still useful for visiting areas farther afield. The public transport network consists of buses and trams that share the same ticketing system.
Ticketing options:
1. Single Ticket
- The cost is approximately €1.70 per ticket when purchased in advance.
- A discounted fare is available for those using a contactless card on board.
You can use a credit card, debit card, or mobile wallet (such as Apple Pay or Google Pay) by tapping it on the reader when boarding.
Purchase physical tickets from:
- Authorized Retailers: You can buy paper tickets at authorized retailers like tobacco shops (indicated by a blue sign with a white "T") and newsstands.
- Vending Machines: Automatic vending machines are available at every tram stop and inside the Santa Maria Novella (SMN) train station.
2. Multi-ride passes
- Carnet of 10 trips: Costs €15.50 and can be used for 10 separate 90-minute rides.
- Monthly passes: Available for more long-term use and likely not beneficial for tourists.
Both are available at Autolinee Toscane offices and from authorized retailers.
Trams:
An efficient way to travel, particularly for reaching the airport and areas outside the historic center. The tram operates from 5 AM to midnight, with trains running every 4 to 6 minutes.
- Line T1: Connects the Scandicci district to Careggi Hospital and stops at the Santa Maria Novella (SMN) train station.
- Line T2: Links the SMN station area to Florence Airport (FLR).
Buses: featuring over 80 ATAF routes that serve both the wider city and surrounding neighborhoods. Major routes run every 5 to 15 minutes. There are several night buses available operating from 5 AM to midnight. Full-size buses are not permitted in the historic center; instead, small electric minibuses (lines C1, C2, and C3) operate in this area.
Taxis: Metered white taxis charge €8 to €10 for short rides, with additional fees for night services.
Ride-Sharing: FreeNow, Bolt, and Uber allow you to book rides through their apps, offering transparent fees.
Bicycles and scooters: Bike-sharing services like RideMovi and scooter-sharing options such as BIT Mobility can be accessed through mobile applications.