Navigating the Historic Streets of Florence

Given its small size and wealth of architectural treasures, getting around Florence is quite easy.

It's true that losing your way in the narrow alleys branching from the open squares can happen, but it won't take long before you encounter a famous monument that will ground you.

The UNESCO-listed centro storico, the heart of the Renaissance, spans about 5 sq km (1.9 sq miles) along both banks of the Arno River. With a seemingly infinite list of cultural attractions, walking is undoubtedly the best way to discover the city. Make sure to pack a good pair of sneakers as your only must-have item.

If you're looking to venture beyond the city, an expanding tram network makes it easy to explore further, and the conveniently located Santa Maria Novella railway station connects you to numerous cities across Tuscany and all of Italy with daily regional and high-speed train services.

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Walking is the optimal way to get around

Often, walking is not just the best way to travel from point A to point B, but the only viable option. Many inner streets are pedestrian-only during the day, and even when other transportation is available, navigating through crowds can be challenging.

No matter where you choose to stay in the city center, all the major attractions will be just a short walk away from any of the central neighborhoods. The inner city is mostly flat, except for the Oltrarno area, which rises from San Niccolò. While the climb up San Miniato hill to reach Piazzale Michelangelo and the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte may be a workout, the stunning views will make it worthwhile.

The tram connects you to the airport and the suburbs

Florence lacks a subway system, but it boasts a modern tram network that connects the city center to the airport and neighborhoods beyond the historic area. If you're traveling to or from Amerigo Vespucci Airport, skip the pricey taxi—just pay €1.70 for a quick 25-minute ride to the city center.

Tip for tram ticket purchases: Starting in early 2024, all trams in Florence feature contactless ticket machines onboard. You no longer need to worry about buying a ticket in advance or validating it—just tap your credit or debit card and you’re set.

Buses travel up to Fiesole and Piazzale Michelangelo (and further)

While walking is often quicker than public transport in the city center, Florence’s Autolinee Toscane buses provide an easy way to reach the hilly outskirts.

Catch bus 12 from Piazza Ognissanti to ascend to Piazzale Michelangelo, where a bronze replica of David greets you with stunning views of the Duomo and the city's iconic red rooftops. If you plan to explore Fiesole and its archaeological sites, take bus 7 from the Santa Maria Novella railway station.

All buses in Florence feature a contactless ticketing system. Alternatively, you can purchase paper tickets at most newsstands and tobacco shops marked with a “T” sign. Tickets cost €1.70 and are valid for 90 minutes. If you buy a ticket directly from the driver, it will cost you €2.70.

Take the train to discover the areas beyond Florence

Santa Maria Novella (SMN) is Florence's primary railway station, conveniently situated less than 1 km (0.6 miles) from the Duomo. However, it’s not the only station in the city—Firenze Rifredi and Firenze Campo di Marte are located to the northeast and northwest of the historic center, respectively, so make sure you alight at the correct one upon arrival.

While trains aren’t usually necessary for getting around Florence, Tuscany’s extensive rail network opens up numerous options for day trips. Regional trains connect to all major Tuscan cities, while high-speed Trenitalia Le Frecce and Italo trains extend travel to Rome, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Naples, and many other destinations.

How to purchase and validate train tickets

Train tickets can be purchased online at trenitalia.com, italotreno.it, or directly at the station. When buying tickets for regional trains online, remember to confirm your trip by clicking the link in your confirmation email before departure. If you opt for a paper ticket, it must be validated at one of the green machines located around the station. Failing to check in or validate your ticket could result in a fine. High-speed train tickets do not require checking in or validation.

Regional trains offer flexibility: you don't need to book in advance since prices are fixed and trains are rarely crowded. For high-speed trains, it's wise to buy tickets a few weeks ahead to ensure your seat.

E-bikes whisk you around the city in minutes

To enhance your Florentine adventures, simply rent one of the many Ridemovi bikes found throughout the city. Electric bicycles let you traverse from one side to the other in mere minutes (traffic permitting) and can be parked anywhere without needing to return them to the original location.

To access the bike-sharing service, download the RideMovi app and find the nearest e-bike. Unlock it by scanning the QR code on the handlebar, and you're ready to ride. Renting RideMovi e-bikes costs €0.25 per minute.

Only rent a car if you intend to visit the countryside

Driving within Florence’s city center and its nearby areas can be quite challenging. The historic center imposes many restrictions on motorized vehicles, and heavy traffic is a constant issue on the roads surrounding the core of the city. Renting a car is advisable only if you plan to head into the countryside, whether to the Chianti region or further south to Val d’Orcia.

It's crucial to book your car in advance if you're visiting during the high season, as prices tend to rise during the summer months. All major car rental companies have offices in Florence, either at the airport or in Borgo Ognissanti, close to the Santa Maria Novella railway station. Costs can vary significantly by season, with small car rentals typically starting around €50 per day.

If you're driving your own vehicle, keep in mind that much of the inner city is a ZTL, or Zona a Traffico Limitato (limited traffic area), where vehicle access is restricted during the day. Entering the ZTL during active hours can lead to a hefty fine—be sure to watch for the signs.

Finding parking in Florence can be challenging

Parking can be quite tricky. Public parking spaces in or around the city center are indicated by either blue or white stripes. Blue spots are reserved for residents, while (rare) white spots are available for everyone else. Between 8am and 8pm, white parking spots cost €2 or more per hour, but they are free at night. Private parking facilities like Garage Europa or Parcheggio Stazione Santa Maria Novella start at €2 per hour or €30 per day. Locals often park for free on the city’s outskirts and take the tram to reach the center.

Call a taxi for assistance with your luggage

The two primary taxi services in Florence are Taxi 4242 and Taxi 4390. You can call or send a WhatsApp message to book a ride. On weekdays, fares start at €3.80, increasing to €6.10 on weekends and holidays, and €7.70 at night, with a minimum charge of €5.50, €7.70, or €9.20 per trip. A ride to the airport from the city center typically costs around €30.

Transportation options for those with disabilities in Florence

Travelers with mobility challenges may find it tough to navigate Florence’s uneven stone streets that crisscross the city center. Narrow sidewalks and heavy traffic on car-accessible roads add to the difficulty.

All trams and most buses are wheelchair-friendly, featuring dedicated spaces for wheelchair users onboard. However, boarding and disembarking during busy times can be challenging.

Both Taxi 4242 and Taxi 4390 offer minivan options suitable for wheelchairs, but it's important to book in advance.