Few cities offer so many world-class sites, shops, and amenities in so compact an area as Florence. To make sure you see it all (and then some), check out our tips below on the best ways to explore the city.
By Foot
Undoubtedly my favorite way to get around the city is on my own two feet. Pedestrians in city center seem to always have the right of way (as long as you stay clear of the viale), and a brisk walk from one end of town to the other takes 30 minutes, tops. On foot, it’s easy skip around a mob of tourists, meander down a tiny alleyway too tight for cars, or keep out of the elements by ducking under canopies and into enchanting cafes.
But walking is more than an easy way to cover distance in this town. Florentines love their evening passeggiata, a leisurely stroll through town to catch up with friends, see and be seen, and get some fresh air. Plus, walking regularly is most effective way to work off all that pasta, pizza and vino. Just be sure to pack good walking shoes – after hours hitting the cobblestones, you’ll be thankful for some cushion under your soles.
For the pedestrian zone map, try here.
By Bike
Bikes are big in Florence! The transportation of choice for many locals and ex-pats, a bicycle allows you the freedom to get across town quickly and cheaply. In city center, bikers don’t have to compete with much car traffic (more on that later), but they do have to negotiate the throngs of walkers that (literally) stand in their way. Grab a bike with a bell to alert pedestrians that you’re trying to pass. And, if at all possible, try to get a ride with a cushioned seat – pedaling over the cobblestones is no joke!
There are multiple shops around the city where you can buy an affordable, used bike for around 50 euro. Once purchased, be careful: bike theft is very common. Don’t skimp on a bike lock, and don’t invest too much money into a fancy ride unless you have access to very safe parking spots. Also, make sure to tie the bike up to a proper rack; if it’s parked illegally, police might confiscate it.
If you’re only in town for a short while and would rather rent a bike, try Florence by Bike.
By Bus
For longer trips (or when your feet finally scream, “enough!”) the Florence bus system (ATAF) can be a saving grace. There are two areas in town where it’s easiest to hop any number of buses: at Santa Maria Novella train station and in front of San Marco. If you’re having trouble navigating all the different lines, the best way to plan a bus trip is through ataf.net, which is chock full of timetables, possible itineraries and route maps. You can buy a single bus ticket for as little as 1.20 euro, which will be good for 90 minutes from validation. Pick them up at any tabacchi, or even text from a smartphone for your fare. Buying tickets on board is also allowed, but they are more expensive at 2 euro a pop.
Two notes of caution about riding the bus. First, if you have a printed ticket, don’t forget to validate it! Someone may board the bus at any time to check tickets, and the penalty for riding without a valid fare is unbelievably expensive. Second, be aware that scioperi, or strikes, are common. Many will be scheduled in advance between certain hours, so keep your eyes peeled for days when bus travel might be restricted.
By Scooter
Ah, the Italian icon, the Vespa. While riding around medieval streets on the back of a scooter is a staple of any Florentine fantasy, a motorino is also a practical way to commute around the city. They’re small, energy-efficient, and more easily parked than a car. But travel by scooter shouldn’t be considered an easy zip around town; many of those on motorini are seasoned locals who know the roads and traffic patterns well. Between the unpredictable one-ways, large crowds, and quick car traffic, scooter-riding can be both dangerous and disorienting if not approached with the proper amount of respect.
Despite the warning, if you’re still looking to motor about town, try Alinari Bike Rental.
By Car or Taxi
Cars are more of a nuisance than a convenience in this city. Much of city center is closed off to car traffic, which is a blessing to pedestrians, but brews nothing but frustration from drivers. If you do have a car in town, expect it also to be hard to find parking – spaces are very limited.
While most four-wheelers are shunned from city center, taxis are allowed in pedestrian zones. They’re expensive but reliable. The easiest way to grab one is to look for clusters of them at taxi stands in Piazza del Duomo, Piazza San Marco, and near the Santa Maria Novella train station. Just make sure to always request a receipt up front; once in a while, a rogue driver might “forget” to run the meter, only to charge you a trumped up price upon arrival. And a tip for all you single ladies out there: if traveling alone after 9 p.m., you can hail a taxi and receive a 10% discount on your fare; simply ask for it upon entering the cab.
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In reality, there’s no bad way to get around Florence. The important part is just that you get to this remarkable place, and then do what works for you. With the wealth of options available, we’re sure you’ll cruise the city in style, by foot or on wheels.
