Florence Vespucci Airport (Aeroporto di Firenze – Peretola) is only 6 kilometers from the city center. There are many ways to reach Florence’s city center from the airport, like trams, taxis, private car services, rental cars, walking, and cycling. This guide explains each means of transportation in simple terms, including operating hours, to help you decide based on cost, convenience, and travel time.
Transportation Options From Florence Airport to City Center
There are several ways to reach Florence city center: tram, taxi, private car service, rental car, walking, and bicycle. Each option has different advantages, depending on your needs and budget.
The tram is the best and most economical way for most travelers to get from Florence Airport to the city center. It is fast, affordable, and runs frequently, making it ideal for those who want a simple and direct route. At only €1.70, it offers excellent value and takes just 18 minutes to reach the city center. It’s perfect if you have light luggage and want a hassle-free experience.
1: Tram (Tramvia)
The T2 tram line is a convenient and inexpensive option. It connects the Florence airport to the city center in just 18 minutes. Trams operate from 5:00 AM to 12:30 AM, with extended hours until 2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. They run frequently, departing every 5-10 minutes.
Best for: If you want to skip traffic jams or traveling alone.
Cost: A tram ticket costs €1.70 (valid for 90 minutes once you punch it)
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
How to Buy Tram Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at ticket vending machines at tram stops. You can also buy tram tickets through a smartphone app called AT Bus or by using contactless payment methods directly on the tram. Accepted payment methods include cash, credit cards, and contactless options.
Advantages: The tram is a direct and cost-effective way to reach the city. It’s quick and ideal for budget travelers.
Disadvantages: There is limited space for luggage, and it may be crowded during peak hours.
2: Taxi
Taxis are a comfortable option, especially if you have luggage or arrive late at night. They are available 24/7 from the airport. A taxi to the city center usually costs €22 during the day, with higher rates (€25) at night. Notable taxi services in Florence include Taxi 4242 and Taxi 4390. You can contact them at +39 055 4242 and +39 055 4390.
Best for: Families or if you want to visit directly to your hotel or hostel.
Operating Hours: Taxis are available 24/7.
Travel Time: The ride takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, but you have to mention this to the Taxi company before booking your ride.
Advantages: It offers a door-to-door service, making it ideal for those with luggage. You can go straight to famous Florence attractions such as the Uffizi Gallery, the Florence Duomo, and Ponte Vecchio without the hassle of additional transfers.
Disadvantages: More expensive than public transport, and traffic delays could occur.
3: Private Car Services
Private car services are available for those looking for a hassle-free, pre-booked ride. In Italy, Private Car Services are known as NCC (Neloggio Con Conducente) which means Rent with Driver. They are well-suited for families or groups traveling with lots of luggage. Prices start at around €60, depending on the provider.
There’s another cheap private car service app called BlaBla Car you can use to travel from Florence airport to the city center. BlaBlaCar is a service that connects drivers with empty seats to passengers traveling in the same direction, allowing them to share the journey and split the travel costs.
Best for: Families or if you want to visit directly to your hotel or hostel.
Operating Hours: Varies by provider, but generally available for pre-booking at any time.
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, but you have to mention this to the firm before booking your ride.
Advantages: Personalized service without waiting, ideal for families or larger groups.
Disadvantages: More expensive compared to other options.
4: Rental Car
Rental cars offer freedom if you plan to explore Florence and the surrounding areas. Car rentals are available at the airport, but remember Florence has strict driving zones known as ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato).
Some of the popular rental car services to find near Florence airport are:
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- National
- Tuscany by Car
- Sicily by Car
- Sixt
- Thrifty
Best for: If you are traveling with family and decide to tour the city on wheels.
Operating Hours: Rental agency hours vary, typically available during daytime hours.
Advantages: Flexibility to explore beyond Florence at your own pace.
Disadvantages: Driving in the city can be complicated due to ZTL zones, heavy traffic, and parking difficulties.
Attention!
Florence traffic can be unpredictable. Peak hours are from 7:00-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM, with increased traffic around 4:00 PM due to school dismissals. Keep this in mind when deciding on your mode of transportation to avoid delays.
5: Bicycle
Cycling is another alternative. It’s about 7.8 kilometers from the airport to the city center, taking around 30 minutes. This option is great if you enjoy cycling and don’t have much luggage.
Operating Hours: Not applicable.
Advantages: Faster than walking, and no cost beyond the bicycle rental.
Disadvantages: Not ideal for heavy luggage, and safety can be a concern.
6: By Walk
Walking from the airport to the city center is possible but not ideal for everyone. It’s about 5.3 kilometers and takes roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes. The walking route from Florence airport to the city center passes from Via di Novoli, Viale Francesco Redi, Viale Belfiore, and then Florence city center train station.
Operating Hours: Not applicable.
Wheelchair Accessibility: Not recommended for those needing wheelchair access, as the paths may not be fully accessible
Advantages: Perfect for light travelers who want to enjoy a long walk.
Disadvantages: Not ideal with luggage or if you’re short on time.
7: E-Scooty
For travelers arriving at Firenze (Florence) Airport and looking for an easy and efficient way to reach the city center, e-scooty services such as Bird and RideMovi. Install the application on your phone and locate hundreds of e-scooties near the Florence airport. With a simple mobile app to locate and rent the scooters, travelers can avoid traffic jams and enjoy a direct route to their destination while enjoying Florence’s charming streets at their own pace.
Operating Hours: Not applicable.
Wheelchair Accessibility: Not recommended for those needing wheelchair access, as the paths may not be fully accessible
Advantages: Just book and go on the spot, perfect for solo travelers.
Disadvantages: It’s not ideal if you have luggage. Sometimes, the scooty has a limited battery life left in it.
Florence Local Transportation Cost Comparison
The table below compares the costs and operating hours of different transportation methods:
| Transportation Method | Cost | Travel Time | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tram | €1.70 | 18 minutes | 5:00 AM – 12:30 AM (until 2:00 AM on Fri and Sat) |
| Taxi | €22 – €25 | 20 minutes | 24/7 |
| Private Car Service | €60+ | 20 minutes | Varies by provider |
| Rental Car | €40+ (daily rental) | Varies | Rental agency hours |
| Walking | Free | ~1 hour 10 min | Not applicable |
| Bicycle | Bicycle rental fee | ~30 minutes | Not applicable |
| E-Scooty | Starts from €1 | ~30 minutes | 24/7 |
Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Tickets: Purchase tram tickets in advance for a smooth experience.
- Family Travel: Private car services are recommended for families needing more space.
- Late Arrivals: Opt for a taxi or pre-booked private car for late-night arrivals.
Useful Italian Phrases for Traveling from Florence Airport to the City Center:
- Where can I buy a tram ticket? – Dove posso comprare un biglietto per il tram?
- How much does it cost to take a taxi to the city center? – Quanto costa prendere un taxi per il centro città?
- Is this the right tram to the city center? – Questo è il tram giusto per il centro città?
- Can you help me with directions? – Può aiutarmi con le indicazioni?
- Where is the taxi stand? – Dov’è la fermata dei taxi?
- How long does it take to get to the city center? – Quanto tempo ci vuole per arrivare al centro città?
- I need a ticket for the tram. – Ho bisogno di un biglietto per il tram.
- Can I pay by card? – Posso pagare con la carte?
FAQs
What is the fastest way to reach the city center from Florence Airport?
The tram is the fastest and most direct way from the airport to Florence city center.
Are taxis available at all hours from the airport?
Yes, taxis operate 24/7.
Can I pay for tram tickets with a card?
Yes, contactless payment is available on the tram. You can pay via MasterCard, Visa, and Maestro cards.
Which is the best way to get to Florence city center from Rome airport?
The Rome Fiumicino International Airport, also called Leonardo da Vinci Airport, is roughly 340 kilometers from Florence. To reach downtown Florence, take a train (with at least one transfer), a shuttle bus, a taxi, or hire a private driver.
Which is the best way to get to Florence city center from Pisa airport?
Pisa International Airport, also known as Galileo Galilei Airport, is about 80 kilometers from Florence. You can reach Florence’s city center by train, shuttle bus, taxi, or hiring a private driver.
Mosaab is a seasoned content writer and SEO expert with a passion for travel, culture, and global cuisine. Drawing from his experience as a courier in Florence, he offers unique insights into the city’s hidden gems and rich history.