How to Get Around Florence

Florence is a small city but there are many ways to travel within the city walls.  If you are taking a walk through the center or going to Fiesole, there is always an easier way to get to where you want to go.  I am here to explain it all to you!  :)

Florence just opened a new Tramvia this February that starts from the SMN station and ends in Scandicci.  This line is mostly used by students and commuters.  They are currently working on lines 2 and 3.  Originally the lines were going to run past the Duomo but since it has become a pedestrian zone they are coming up with alternatives to make the Tram accessible through the center without congesting the already overcrowded Piazza del Duomo.  To be continued… Visit this site (in italian) for information on line 1.

Aside from the Tramvia, there are the city ATAF buses.  I mentioned in this post that the ATAF website is very helpful when trying to find the correct bus to take to your destination in the city.  There are many different types of tickets you can buy, 1 ride good for 70 minutes (un biglietto) for €1,20, 4 ride good for 4 rides for 70 minutes (un multi-plu) for €4,50.  10, 60 minute rides (Carta Agile, €10,00), 20, 60 minute rides (Carta Agile, €20,00).  You can venture on and off any bus in the city in the alloted 60 or 70 minutes without stamping another.

Bicycles are very popular in the center as well.  I have one and am always on it.  It is very useful with all the bike paths set around the city, especially on the big Viale.  Florence by Bike is a popular vendor for renting bikes.  They have group rates and also deals if you book ahead of time.  Audio guides are available with an extra cost of €12,00.

Then the most popular these days Segway Firenze. I will be going on a tour tomorrow.  I will report back with what I thought of the tour.  Segways are being seen more and more in Florence.  From April to October, they offer a 3 hour tour, a 10am morning tour and a 3pm afternoon tour.  If you are nervous on hoping on one of this machines for the first time, don’t worry, the Segway Experience Tour starts with a 30min orientation session before the tour.  Once you feel comfortable riding the Segway the journey will begin.  Visit the website to make a reservation.

Florence Segway Tour

The last mode of transport in Florence is the taxi.  It is of course known as the most expensive way to travel in Florence.  I suggest using this transport only for getting to and from the airport and the train station.

Florence is a very walkable city.  So if you don’t plan on leaving the city center, grab your comfy pair of shoes, a camera and enjoy Florence how it is meant to be seen, no rushin’ just strollin’.