HOW TO GET TO FLORENCE
Your Complete Guide to Reaching the Cradle of the Renaissance

Florence, nestled in the heart of Tuscany, is exceptionally well-connected both nationally and internationally, making it an easily accessible destination. Let’s explore the best options for how to get to Florence, whether you’re traveling by plane, train, car, or bus.

Getting to Florence by Plane

The quickest way to reach Florence from international or distant Italian destinations is by plane. The city is served by Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR), located approximately 8 km (5 miles) from the city center.

Florence Amerigo Vespucci Airport (Peretola) (FLR)

The airport offers flights from various Italian cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples, as well as numerous European destinations including London, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, and Barcelona. The airport is just a 15-20 minute ride from the city center.

Transportation from the airport to Florence city center:

  • Tramvia T2: The most convenient solution to reach the center is the T2 tram line, which connects the airport to Santa Maria Novella station in about 20 minutes. The tram operates every 5-7 minutes, and a single ticket costs €1.50.

  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. The fixed fare for a ride from the airport to the city center is approximately €22-25.

  • Private Shuttles: Several companies offer private transfer services or shuttles to the city center and major hotels.

  • Car Rental: Various car rental companies operate at the airport, ideal for those who wish to explore Tuscany independently.

Other Airports Near Florence:

If you can’t find direct flights to Florence, consider landing at one of these nearby airports:

  • Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei): About 80 km (50 miles) from Florence, well-connected by a direct Pisa-Florence train, which takes approximately 1 hour.

  • Bologna Airport (Guglielmo Marconi): Approximately 100 km (62 miles) from Florence, with frequent train connections lasting about 40 minutes.

Alternatively, if your home airport isn’t connected to Florence or nearby airports, the most convenient solution is to fly into Rome or Milan and then reach Florence by train.

Getting to Florence by Train

Traveling by train is one of the most comfortable ways to reach Florence, especially if you’re coming from other Italian cities. The city’s main station is Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), located in the heart of the historic center and just a short walk from major attractions.

Main Train Connections:

  • From Rome: High-speed trains connect Rome to Florence in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The main railway operators are Trenitalia (with Frecciarossa and Frecciargento trains) and Italo.

  • From Milan: Milan is also well-connected to Florence by high-speed trains. The journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.

  • From Venice: From Venice, you can reach Florence in 2 hours and 15 minutes with high-speed trains.

  • From Naples: The journey from Naples to Florence takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes with Frecciarossa or Italo trains.

Main Train Stations in Florence:

  • Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN): The primary train station, a short walk from the Duomo and major attractions.

  • Firenze Campo di Marte: A secondary station, about 15 minutes from the center, mainly used for regional and international trains.

  • Firenze Rifredi: Another station used for regional trains and connections to the outskirts.

Getting to Florence by Car

Arriving in Florence by car can be a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas, such as the Chianti hills, Siena, or Pisa. However, keep in mind that the historic center of Florence is a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone), and unauthorized vehicles are prohibited. Fines for entering the ZTL without permission can be substantial.

Main Highways to Reach Florence:

  • From the North (Milan, Bologna): Take the A1 motorway towards Rome and follow the signs for Florence. The main exit for the center is Firenze Nord.

  • From the South (Rome, Naples): Take the A1 motorway towards Milan and take the Firenze Sud exit.

  • From Pisa or Livorno: You can take the SGC Firenze-Pisa-Livorno expressway.

Parking in Florence:

Since the historic center is subject to traffic restrictions, it’s advisable to park your car in one of the numerous paid parking lots located on the outskirts of the city:

  • Parcheggio di Santa Maria Novella: The closest to the train station and the city center.

  • Parcheggio Porta al Prato: A convenient option a short distance from the center.

  • Parcheggio Piazzale Michelangelo: Located in a panoramic area, offering splendid views of the city.

Getting to Florence by Bus

Traveling by bus is an economical option to reach Florence, with various companies offering national and international services.

Florence Bus Station (SITA): Located next to Santa Maria Novella train station, it’s the main arrival and departure point for regional and national buses.

Getting to Florence by Ship

If you arrive in Italy by ship, the closest port to Florence is Livorno, which is about 90 km (56 miles) from the city. From Livorno port, you can take a train or rent a car to reach Florence in about 1 hour and a half.