Florence Transport

Most people get about Florence on foot and the compact nature of the town and proliferation of pedestrianised areas makes getting about this way sensible. If you plan on seeing more of the outlying attractions in Florence, the excellent ATAF bus network covers most of the city and its surroundings and it is a cheap mode of transport.    Taxis and tourist coaches are also an option.

By train

Florence’s rail system only provides access to Florence and onward destinations and is not used for travel within the city. Stazione Santa Maria Novella is the main station, which is located just to the northwest of the city centre.

By bus

The ATAF is the local bus company which serves most of the city and its suburbs as well as several nearby towns. Buses are bright orange and cheap, and they run from early morning to about 21:30 and sometimes until 01:00. Buses run from Santa Maria Novella Station and tickets must be bought before travel from newsstands or tobacconists that have the bus company logo advertised.

Taxis

Taxis offer the most convenient form of transport within Florence, but they can be quite expensive due to extra charges for luggage, weekend travel and airport trips. Official taxis can be hired from designated taxi ranks, which can generally be found in the main squares.

Tourist services

Taking an air-conditioned guided bus tour in the summer months or any time of the year is a very convenient way to see Florence. Such services depart from the Piazza Santa Maria Novella Station and feature English-speaking guides. Regular stops at major attractions allow passengers to wander around and stretch their legs.

From the airport

Florence Amerigo Vespucci Airport is only a few miles northwest of the city and transport options include a 15-minute drive along Vialle Alessandro Guidon; an airport shuttle service that takes about 20 minutes; and taxis. In addition, many of the quality city hotels provide their guests with a courtesy shuttle bus pick up.