Florence is a very walkable city and is best seen by foot. BRING COMFORTABLE SHOES!

There is no Uber or Lyft in Florence, so if you don’t feel like walking taking a taxi is the most efficient option. Otherwise, there is also a mostly reliable (it’s Italy after all) public transport system with buses and trams. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are also rental bikes and electric scooters available throughout the city center.

Hailing a taxi is not a thing in Italy, so don’t be offended if you try to flag one down and it doesn’t stop.

HOW TO GET A TAXI: you have to go to a designated taxi stand, located near most of the main squares (piazzas). Look for a large orange TAXI sign or a place where many taxis are lined up.

You can also call for a taxi pick-up at +39 055 4242 or +39 055 4390; or if you are in a restaurant, bar, or hotel simply ask them to call a taxi for you.

Taxis can be a little expensive in Florence, so if you want a more economical option you can take the bus or tramvia. Google Maps provides reliable public transport directions, otherwise download the Moovit app (recommended) for up-to-date schedules and directions.

How to buy bus/tram tickets: It’s not as easy as getting on the bus and paying the driver (it’s Italy after all), the driver drives and that’s it. You can buy tickets in tobacco shops or at the kiosks at the tram stops, or directly on the bus/tram with the contactless payment machine. Tickets are valid for 90 minutes, a ticket costs is €1.70.

REMEMBER to validate your ticket when you get on by stamping it in the validation machine. Ticket Controllers randomly board buses/trams to check that you have a ticket and it’s validated, if not you will receive a 50 euro fine per person.

Alternatively, the best and easiest option is to pay by contactless payment directly on the bus/tram, just simply scan your Visa or Mastercard at the machine in the front of the bus. The contactless payment option does not require validation. Keep in mind that you can only use one card per ticket, so you can’t use the same card to pay for multiple tickets.

You will see rental bikes, electric bikes, and scooters throughout the city. There aren’t a lot of bike lanes though, and riding on the cobble stoned streets will rattle your brain. You’ve been warned. However, it can be fun to ride along the river where there are wide and smooth bike lanes.

How to rent a vehicle: scan the QR-code on the vehicle, download the app and proceed with the directions on the app, including linking the app to a payment card.

REMEMBER when you complete your ride to park in a legal parking area (according to indications on the app), take a picture of the vehicle and upload it to the app so you don’t get charged an illegal parking fee.