Transportation in Florence
With the snaking River Arno dividing the city in two, Florence is compact enough to cover comfortably on foot. In this pedestrian-friendly city, you're never more than a short walk from the main cultural attractions. Use the Duomo (Cathedral) in the heart of the centro storico (historic centre) to orientate yourself through the medieval cobbled streets.North-east of the Duomo lies the Galleria dell'Accademia (Accademia Gallery), and north-west is the Basilica of San Lorenzo and the main train station, Santa Maria Novella Station. South lies Piazza della Signoria square and the Uffizi Gallery. From here, the Ponte Vecchio bridge traverses the River Arno, and a short uphill hike reaches the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Foot
Florence's narrow medieval streets were made for walking and horse-drawn carts. Walking is still the quickest and most enjoyable way of getting around a city that is a work of art in itself. Stroll around at night to have the streets to yourself.
Taxi
Florence is compact so a taxi is only needed when travelling with heavy luggage. Minimum fares are expensive and the complex one-way system and pedestrianised zones make even short journeys laboriously long. There are ranks at the airport and immediately outside the main train station (Santa Maria Novella).
Bus
As the centro-storico (historic centre) is mostly closed to traffic, Florence's efficient buses run almost exclusively on the principal streets. Several small electric buses cover the otherwise pedestrian-only areas.
Rent your car
It is possible to drive into Florence, but there is a restricted traffic area (ZTL, Zona a Traffico Limitato) in the historic city centre. If you’re staying at a hotel, you need to give them your car registration details in advance so the city police will allow you drive in.
Transportation Tips
Wear comfortable shoes for sightseeing. If you envisage frequent bus journeys, pick up a pack of four tickets called biglietto multiplo, or a 24-hour, or three-day pass at tabacchi (newsagents). Be sure to stamp your ticket in the box at the rear of the bus to avoid a hefty fine. Pick up a bus map at the tourist office near the station.
Special Transportation
Bicycle
The relatively traffic-free centre means that cycling is a pleasant and speedy way of zipping about town. Temporary sites renting bikes for a nominal fee are plentiful: try Santa Maria Novella station, Piazza Strozzi square, or the south side of the Palazzo Vecchio.
Scooter
Florence may be small enough to cover on foot, but nothing beats the thrill – or makes you feel more like a local – than scooting about on the back of a bike. You can rent scooters from Alinari Rental at 38r Via San Zanobi.
