Getting Around Florence
Getting Around Florence
All City Transport Options: What Locals Use and What’s Best for Tourists
General Overview
You’ll notice locals never rush for the bus in Florence. It’s a city that values a leisurely pace, which is both a blessing and a curse when you're trying to navigate public transport. The first thing to know is that the general transport system is pretty efficient, but it doesn’t always run like clockwork.The main types of public transport here are buses and trams, with bus routes like the #7 taking you from the main train station, Santa Maria Novella, out to the picturesque part of town near Piazzale Michelangelo. Operating hours are generally from about 5 AM to midnight; on weekends, you might find fewer services, especially post-dinner time.
Now, of course, many visitors think that taxis are the best way to navigate Florence. But honestly, with bus tickets priced around €1.50 for a single trip (which is a steal compared to €10 for a typical taxi ride to the same spot), you might want to think twice. Just a heads up: public transport can get packed during rush hour, with the morning peak offering a particularly claustrophobic atmosphere at around 8 AM.
Oh, before I forget, a common mistake is assuming all buses accept cash. Most don’t; instead, you should buy tickets at a kiosk or via a transport app before boarding. Speaking of apps, the ATAF official one is quite handy and provides real-time updates. You’ll also want to try to avoid the #22 during rush hour—trust me on that one. I had an annoying experience crammed in there, barely able to breathe.
One pleasant surprise? Those buses can be quite prompt—when they actually arrive! On a sunny day, catching a ride allows you to enjoy the scenic streets without straining under the summer sun. One of my money-saving tricks is to buy a day pass for around €5; it’s much better than buying single tickets if you’re planning to hop on and off.
As for the weather, keep in mind that summer months can make public transport a sweat box, so bring a small fan or better yet, plan your trips for early morning or late evening when it’s cooler. If you’re venturing towards the historic center, the Santa Maria Novella station is your main hub—you can get nearly anywhere from there.
So, here's a handy tip: always validate your ticket before hopping on, or you might get slapped with a fine. Navigating the intimate streets of Florence can be a pleasure as long as you’re prepared. Enjoy your travels!
Types of Transport
popular with tourists
Walking in Florence is one of the best ways to explore the city's rich history and stunning architecture, as many of its most famous landmarks are within a compact area. To effectively navigate, consider downloading a walking map or a mobile app that highlights key attractions such as the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery, all of which are easily accessible on foot. A great tip is to start your day early to avoid crowds, particularly at popular sites, and take the time to wander through the charming side streets for hidden gems and local shops.
Always remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots, and be cautious of pickpockets. Lastly, wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets!
Always remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots, and be cautious of pickpockets. Lastly, wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets!
popular with tourists
The bus system in Florence is a convenient way to explore the city and surrounding areas, with numerous routes connecting key tourist destinations such as the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Fiesole. Tickets can be purchased at Tabacchi shops, vending machines, or through the ATAF app, with a single ticket costing approximately €1.50 and valid for 90 minutes of travel. To optimize your time, look for bus routes 12 or 13 to reach Fiesole, a charming hillside town that offers stunning views of Florence. Always validate your ticket before boarding using the machines on the bus, as fines for not having a validated ticket can be steep. Lastly, keep an eye on your belongings during busy times, especially in crowded areas, to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Taxis in Florence are readily available, especially in popular areas like Santa Maria Novella train station, Piazza della Signoria, and near major hotels. Fares within the city center typically range from €10 to €20, with additional charges for luggage and late-night rides (between 10 PM and 6 AM). It's advisable to always check if the meter is running and to ask the driver for an estimated fare for longer routes, such as trips to Piazzale Michelangelo or nearby towns.
For payment, most taxis accept cash (euros) and credit/debit cards, but it's smart to confirm this with the driver beforehand. Lastly, always ensure you take official taxis; these can be identified by the “TAXI” sign on the roof and the taxi number printed on the side.
For payment, most taxis accept cash (euros) and credit/debit cards, but it's smart to confirm this with the driver beforehand. Lastly, always ensure you take official taxis; these can be identified by the “TAXI” sign on the roof and the taxi number printed on the side.
The tram in Florence operates primarily on Line T1, which connects the central station (Santa Maria Novella) to the suburbs, providing easy access to key areas such as the Cascine Park and the San Donnino neighborhood. Tickets cost approximately €1.50 and can be purchased at vending machines located at tram stops or via the ATAF app; remember to validate your ticket before boarding to avoid fines. A helpful tip for tourists is to take the tram to visit the sprawling Cascine Park, which is perfect for a relaxing day amidst nature. For a time-saving experience, plan your journey during off-peak hours to avoid crowded trams, and always be aware of your belongings, especially in busy areas.
The auto in Florence is a convenient option for travelers seeking to explore the Tuscany region or nearby attractions, as the city itself has limited vehicle accessibility in the historic center. Parking can be a challenge and typically costs around €2-3 per hour, with payment commonly made via parking meters or mobile apps; consider using the Parkopedia app to find available spots. Keep in mind that many streets are ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato), meaning only authorized vehicles are allowed, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the ZTL limits to avoid fines. For a scenic drive, consider taking the Vittoria Emanuele II boulevard for stunning views of the Arno River and the surrounding hills. Lastly, always double-check your rental agreement for insurance coverage and make sure to drive defensively, as local drivers can be aggressive and parking can be tightly packed.
Here you can learn about all types of transport in Florence. What transport is available, how to reach tourist attractions and which mode of transport is optimal.