If you are flying into Florence, Italy, there are two main airports that are likely going to be your point of arrival. They are the Florence airport (LFR) or the Pisa airport (PSA).
Main Airport In Florence
The closest and main airport in Florence is the Firenze airport, or officially Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola in Italian. It was formerly called Amerigo Vespucci Airport and is located about 5km from the main city of Florence. Some just refer to it as the Florence airport today.
You can find out more details and amenities in Firenze airport at www.aeroporto.firenze.it
Best Way To Get From Florence Airport to City Center
By Tram
For most backpackers and travelers who are willing to walk a bit, the tram will likely be your best option.
After the tram line extension in 2019, the tram is the cheapest way to get from the Florence airport to the city center. It is also very convenient. The T1 line takes you from the airport to the Santa Maria Novella Train Station in around 15 minutes.
Tickets cost €1.50 one way, but you do need to pay more if you are carrying a lot of baggage. Note that there is a limit of 2 baggage per person. There are several ticket machines right at the train station where you can get your tickets. Simply validate your ticket upon boarding on the yellow machines and you are good to go.
Most Convenient Way To Get From Florence Airport to City Center
By Private Transfer
If you want the most convenient and comfortable option that saves you time, then you can always get a private airport transfer. This is, of course, the most expensive transport method; but hey, time is money.
>Check Private Airport Transfer Option
Other Ways To Get From Florence Airport to City Center
*Prices and schedules might change with time, double-check before leaving*
Rent A Car
For independent travelers who want more freedom and flexibility, renting a car is always a go-to option. You can use DiscoverCar to compare and find what are the choices available, they usually show some of the best prices.
Having a car is also a good option if you plan to explore out of the city anyway. That will give you the most flexibility to plan your itinerary accordingly.
You can stop wherever you want and explore lesser known sites that might not have regular public transportation, particularly during off peak seasons where buses to tourism sites might operate at reduced frequency.
That said, it can also be a real time saver without having to wait for buses or queue with the tourist crowd etc.
By Bus
There is a bus company called Volainbus that runs a direct route between Florence airport and the city center. It takes about 25-30 minutes depending on the traffic. The bus stops at Santa Maria Novella Train Station on the city end, which should give you easy access to most of the tourist zones.
The bus operates from 5.30 am in the morning to around midnight. The frequency is around every 30 mins until 9.30 pm, after which it comes every hour. A ticket costs €6 and €10 if you buy a return ticket (two-way). Double check schedule here.
You can get tickets at the airport or directly from the driver. However, if you are paying on board, it is recommended to have the exact amount as the driver is unlikely to have change.
By Taxi or Uber
These are convenient options to get from the Florence airport directly to your accommodation, particularly if you are carrying many things.
Both the bus and tram take you to Santa Maria Novella Train Station, so if you are not staying close to that area then this is an option too.
There is a set rate of around €22 (plus extra charge of € 1 per suitcase) from the airport to the city center. The rates for weekends, holidays, and odd hours can vary as well. An Uber should run you about the same amount between €22-25 unless there is high demand with low supply.
What To Do In Florence, Italy
Florence is an amazing city and one of the top tourist destinations in Italy. There are many famous Italian landmarks in this city as well.
Some of the highlights when visiting Florence include visiting the Duomo, climbing Giotto’s Bell Tower, checking out the Statue of David at the Accademia Gallery, and marveling at the art inside the Uffizi Gallery.
Eating some gelato while strolling through Florence is a must, as well as enjoying a glass of wine. The diverse food and wine tours in Florence are extremely convenient and popular for visitors to explore the gastronomic scene.
From art museums like the Galleria dell’ Accademia to historical landmarks such as the Palazzo Vecchio, there is so much to see in this beautiful city.
READ MORE: 27 best things to do in Florence.