Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Florence Airport (FLR) to Siena is a combination of the Tramvia (tram) to Florence's main train station (Santa Maria Novella, or SMN) and then a direct regional train to Siena. The total journey takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours and costs approximately â¬13-â¬18 per person. The cheapest option is the direct Tiemme/SITA bus from the airport, costing around â¬8.90 and taking about 1 hour 25 minutes. There is no direct train from the airport to Siena; all train routes require a change in Florence's city center.
Overview: Florence Airport to Siena Transport Options
Florence Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR) is located just 4 km northwest of Florence's city center. Since there is no direct rail link or highway from the airport straight to Siena, your journey will always involve traveling into Florence first. Your choice depends on budget, time, luggage, and personal preference. Below is a high-level comparison; detailed guides follow.
| Mode | Total Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (via SMN) | 1h 45m - 2h | â¬13 - â¬18 | Most travelers, reliability, scenery | Requires tram/bus transfer in Florence |
| Direct Bus | 1h 25m - 1h 40m | â¬8.90 | Budget travelers, direct airport link | Limited daily schedule, traffic delays possible |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | ~1h 15m | â¬120 - â¬180 | Groups, late arrivals, max convenience | Significantly more expensive |
Option 1: By Train (Via Florence Santa Maria Novella Station)
This is the most recommended route for its frequency, reliability, and scenic Tuscan views. It involves two legs: 1) Airport to Florence SMN Station, 2) SMN Station to Siena.
Step 1: Florence Airport to Florence SMN Station
You have two main options to reach the central train station:
- Tramvia (Tram Line T2): The fastest and most efficient way. The stop is just outside the airport terminal. It takes about 22 minutes to reach âUnità â station, a 5-minute walk from SMN. Runs every 5-10 minutes. Cost: â¬1.70 (valid 90 min). Tickets from machines at the stop.
- Volainbus Shuttle Bus: A direct bus to the bus station adjacent to SMN train station. Journey time ~25 mins, runs every 30 minutes. Cost: â¬6.00 (buy on board). Convenient if you have heavy luggage, but slower frequency.
Step 2: Florence SMN Station to Siena
At SMN, take a regional train operated by Trenitalia directly to Siena. Trains are frequent (approx. every 30-60 mins), and the ride through the Chianti hills is beautiful.
| Train Type | Journey Time | Approx. Fare (Base) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regionale | 1 hour 30 min - 1 hour 50 min | â¬9.40 - â¬13 | Standard regional service. No seat reservation needed or possible. Purchase anytime. |
| Regionale Veloce | ~1 hour 20 min | â¬11 - â¬15 | Slightly faster, fewer stops. Still no mandatory reservation. |
Key Tips: Validate paper tickets in the green/yellow machines before boarding. E-tickets don't need validation. Siena's train station is âSienaâ, located about 2 km north of the historic center (Piazza del Campo); a city bus or taxi is needed to reach your final hotel.
Option 2: By Direct Bus (Tiemme/SITA Bus)
This is the most economical and most direct public transport link from the airport to Siena's city center, operated by Tiemme/SITA. The bus departs directly from the Florence Airport bus plaza.
Route Details & Schedule
- Route: Florence Airport (FLR) â (may stop at Florence Bus Station near SMN) â Siena (Via Tozzi or Piazza Gramsci).
- Journey Time: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Frequency: Limited service. Typically 6-8 buses per day, with longer gaps on weekends and holidays. Always check the current timetable on the Tiemme website.
- Fare: â¬8.90 one-way. Can be purchased from the driver (cash), at airport tabacchi, or online in advance.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros: Single seat journey, cheapest public transport option, drops you closer to Siena's historic center (Piazza Gramsci) than the train station.
Cons: Schedule is infrequent, subject to road traffic delays, less luggage space than a train, and can be crowded. The last bus often departs in the early evening, making it unsuitable for late flights.
Booking: While not always mandatory, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially in peak season (Spring, Summer, Easter), to guarantee a seat. Check the Busitalia platform for online sales.
Option 3: By Taxi or Private Transfer
A door-to-door taxi or pre-booked private transfer is the most convenient but by far the most expensive option. It is generally not recommended for budget-conscious solo travelers or couples.
Cost & Practicalities
- Estimated Fare: â¬120 â â¬180 for the car (not per person). The price is fixed for rides from the airport to Siena. Always confirm the fixed price before getting in the taxi.
- Journey Time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes via the SR2 highway.
- Where to Find: Official taxi rank outside the airport arrivals hall.
When is a Taxi/Transfer Worth Considering?
- Small Groups (3-4 people): Splitting the cost can make it comparable to train/bus fares per person.
- Late-Night or Very Early Morning Arrivals: When public transport has stopped running.
- Travelers with Significant Mobility Issues or Excessive Luggage: Avoiding transfers and stairs.
- For Maximum Convenience and Time Saving: Direct to your Siena hotel doorstep.
Private Transfer Tip: For better rates and guaranteed service, consider pre-booking a private transfer via a reputable service like SunTransfers or Welcome Pickups. This often costs a similar amount to an airport taxi but provides a confirmed booking with a meet-and-greet.
Ticket & Cost Comparison Table: Making Your Decision
This table consolidates all key data to help you choose the best option for your trip from Florence Airport to Siena. All prices are for one-way, adult fares as of 2024.
| Transport Method | Total Door-to-Door Time* | Approx. Cost (p.p.) | Transfers / Changes | Pros | Cons | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Tram + Regionale) | ~1h 50m - 2h 15m | â¬13 - â¬18 | 1 (Tram to Train at SMN) | Frequent, reliable, scenic, comfortable | Two tickets, walk with luggage in Florence | Most travelers, first-time visitors |
| Direct SITA Bus | ~1h 30m - 1h 45m | â¬8.90 | 0 (Direct) | Cheapest, direct, central drop-off | Infrequent, traffic-dependent, can be crowded | Budget travelers, daytime arrivals |
| Taxi / Private Car | ~1h 15m | â¬120-â¬180 (per car) | 0 (Direct) | Fastest, door-to-door, 24/7 | Very expensive, environmentally heavy | Groups, luxury travel, special needs |
*Door-to-door time includes reasonable transfer/wait times and final transit from Siena station/bus stop to a central hotel.
Verdict: For a balanced mix of cost, comfort, and convenience, the train route is the best overall choice. If saving every euro is paramount and the schedule aligns, the direct bus is the clear winner.
Traveler Tips & Essential Advice
Beyond schedules and fares, here is practical wisdom from experienced travelers to ensure a smooth journey.
Luggage Strategy
Trains and buses have limited overhead space. If you have large suitcases, position yourself near the luggage racks at the end of carriages (on trains) or use the bus hold. For an ultra-convenient (but paid) option, consider Italy's excellent luggage forwarding service, âBagbnbâ or âDropBagsâ, to send your bags directly from Florence Airport to your Siena hotel, allowing you to travel hands-free.
Navigating Florence SMN Station
This central station can be busy. The platforms (binari) for regional trains to Siena are usually in the main hall. Look for departure boards marked âPartenzeâ â find your train (destination: Siena), time, and platform. Allow at least 10-15 minutes for the transfer from the tram/bus, especially if unfamiliar with the station.
Buying Tickets in Advance
- Train Tickets: While regional train prices are fixed, you can buy them online via Trenitalia or the âTrenìt!â app to save time at the station. E-tickets on your phone are sufficient.
- Bus Tickets: As mentioned, advance online purchase for the SITA bus is highly advised in peak seasons (April-October, major holidays) to avoid sold-out buses.
Upon Arrival in Siena
From Siena Train Station, take city bus #S10, #S11, or #S17 (â¬1.70) to âPiazza del Saleâ or âPiazza Gramsciâ to reach the historic center. A taxi rank is also outside the station (approx. â¬10-â¬15 to the center). If arriving by bus at Piazza Gramsci, you are already at the edge of the pedestrianized center â most hotels are within a 10-15 minute walk.
FAQs: Florence Airport to Siena
Is there a direct train from Florence Airport to Siena?
No. There is no direct train service. You must first travel to Florence's main Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station via tram or bus, then transfer to a regional train bound for Siena.
What is the cheapest way from Florence Airport to Siena?
The direct Tiemme/SITA bus is the cheapest public transport at â¬8.90. It provides a single-seat journey from the airport to Siena's city center.
What is the fastest way from Florence Airport to Siena?
A taxi or private transfer is the fastest, taking about 1 hour 15 minutes door-to-door. The fastest public transport is the direct bus (1h25m-1h40m), but it can be delayed by traffic.
How do I get from Florence Airport to Siena late at night?
Public transport options stop running in the evening (last bus ~7-8 PM, last train from SMN ~10-11 PM). For flights arriving after 9 PM, your only practical options are a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer.
Is the SITA bus from the airport to Siena reliable?
It is reliable in terms of operating, but its schedule is limited and it is subject to road traffic congestion, especially on the Florence-Siena highway (SR2) during peak hours and summer weekends. Always allow a buffer in your plans.
Which is better: bus or train from Florence Airport to Siena?
It depends. The bus is cheaper and direct but has a limited schedule. The train is more frequent, more scenic, and more comfortable but requires a change in Florence. For flexibility and guaranteed departures, the train is generally the safer choice.
Where does the bus from Florence Airport to Siena drop off?
The primary drop-off point is Piazza Antonio Gramsci, located just outside Siena's historic city walls and a short walk from the center. Some services may also stop at Via Tozzi. Confirm with the driver upon boarding.
Can I use a regional travel pass for this journey?
Yes. If you have a Tuscany Region Pass (e.g., âToscana Passâ) that covers regional trains, it will be valid on the Trenitalia regional train from Florence SMN to Siena. You would still need to pay separately for the tram/bus from the airport to SMN station.