Florence

Florence is the heart of Tuscany and the cradle of the Renaissance, located in central Italy. Planning a trip to Florence is quite simple: this open-air museum city boasts a developed transport infrastructure, welcoming travellers arriving by plane, high-speed train, bus, and car.

The fastest way to reach the Tuscan capital is to fly into the international Florence Peretola Airport (FLR), which is located just a few kilometres from the historic centre. This air hub is well connected to major European hubs and receives many flights daily.

If direct tickets are not available, travellers often choose neighbouring cities. Excellent alternatives include the airports in Pisa (69 km) and Bologna (81 km), where many low-cost carriers arrive. You can also consider flying via Forli, located 80 km from the destination.

Rail travel is one of the most scenic and convenient ways to get to the city. The main transport hub, Florence Santa Maria Novella Station, receives high-speed trains from all over Italy and Europe, delivering tourists directly to the sights. For some routes, Firenze Campo di Marte Station is also used.

Thanks to the developed rail network, the journey from neighbouring regions takes minimal time. For example, getting there from Bologna or Pisa is quick and comfortable, allowing you to enjoy the Tuscan landscapes from the window.

Bus services connect Florence with many cities in the region, offering a budget-friendly travel option. The fastest route runs from Bologna: covering a distance of about 84 km takes just 1.3 hours.

The trip from Pisa will take a little longer — about 2.5 hours for a distance of 112 km. If you are travelling from Forli, expect to spend approximately 2.2 hours on the road, passing through 149 km of scenic route.

Travelling by car offers the freedom of movement and the opportunity to see hidden corners of Tuscany. The road from Pisa to Florence takes just 1.3 hours, covering a distance of about 86 km. From Bologna, the journey of 109 km requires approximately 1.7 hours of driving.

The route from Forli is longer — 183 km, which will take about 2.2 hours. It is important to remember that the historic city centre is closed to most vehicles (ZTL zone), so it is better to look for parking in advance on the periphery.

To ensure your introduction to the cradle of the Renaissance goes perfectly, it is worth considering a few important nuances of local life. Here is a list of recommendations that will help make your trip to Florence comfortable and safe.

1. Comfortable footwear and dress code. The historic centre is paved with cobblestones, so choose the most comfortable shoes for long walks. Visiting churches and cathedrals requires modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
2. Transport specifics. The city centre is compact and best explored on foot. Entry by car into the historic zone (ZTL) is prohibited for non-residents and carries high fines.
3. Finances and payment. The currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is better to carry some cash for small purchases at kiosks or for tips.
4. Museum tickets. Queues for the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia can be huge. It is highly recommended to book tickets online in advance (several weeks ahead) to avoid wasting time.
5. Dining etiquette. You may often see a "coperto" item on the bill (a service charge for setting the table); this is standard practice. Italians dine late, usually sitting down for dinner after 19:30.
6. Language and communication. The official language is Italian, but staff in tourist areas speak English well. A simple greeting like "Buongiorno" (Good morning/day) or "Buonasera" (Good evening) always creates a good impression with the locals.
7. Safety. Florence is a safe city, but in crowded places (especially near the Duomo and on the Ponte Vecchio bridge), you should keep an eye on your bags and pockets.

By following these simple rules, you can avoid tourist traps and fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Tuscan capital.