Getting to Florence

Florence Sunset
Sunset view of Florence

Florence (Firenze) is located in central Italy and is easily accessible by train, plane, or bus from many parts of Europe. The city is a major rail hub, with frequent high-speed connections to Rome, Milan, Venice, and beyond. As Florence is a popular destination for both tourism and conferences, we recommend booking your travel well in advance.

By Train

For timetables and bookings: Trenitalia or Italo

  • Rome – Florence: High-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Italo) every 20–30 minutes. Journey time: ~1h 30m.
  • Milan – Florence: High-speed trains every 30 minutes. Journey time: ~1h 45m.
  • Venice – Florence: High-speed trains every hour. Journey time: ~2h.
  • Bologna – Florence: Trains every 15–30 minutes. Journey time: ~40m.
  • Munich / Zurich / Geneva – Florence: Direct or one-transfer international connections available daily.
  • Paris – Florence: Overnight services or daytime connections via Milan.

Florence’s main railway station is Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), located in the city center and within walking distance of most hotels and the conference venue.

Note: Train tickets must be purchased before boarding, and it is advisable to book in advance for high-speed trains.

By Plane

Florence’s local airport is Aeroporto di Firenze – Amerigo Vespucci (FLR), also known as Peretola Airport. It is located about 6 km from the city center and offers direct flights to many European cities.

Direct Flights

Amsterdam, Paris, London, Munich, Frankfurt, Madrid, Zurich, Vienna, and several other European hubs have direct connections to Florence.

Alternative Airports

  • Pisa International Airport (PSA): ~80 km from Florence (about 1 hour by train or bus).
  • Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ): ~100 km from Florence (about 1h 15m by train).

From the Airport to the City

  • Tram: Line T2 connects Florence Airport with the city center (Piazza dell’Unità Italiana, near SMN) in about 20 minutes. Tickets cost €1.70 and can be purchased at tram stops or via mobile apps.
  • Taxi: Approx. €25–30 from the airport to the city center.
  • Private Shuttle or Bus: Several shuttle services operate between the airport and the main station.

Airport info: aeroporto.firenze.it

By Bus

Florence is served by several long-distance and regional bus lines:

The main bus terminal is located next to Santa Maria Novella train station.