Quick Answer
Best way from Lucca to Florence Peretola Airport (FLR) is train + Tram T2:
take a Regionale train from Lucca to Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) (~1h 20min–1h 40min, €7.20–€9.00 / ~$7.80–$9.80),
then Tram T2 directly to the airport (~20 min, €1.50 / ~$1.60).
Total time: ~1h 50min–2h 10min | Total cost: €8.70–€10.50 (~$9.50–$11.40).
Cheapest option: bus from Lucca to Florence Scandicci then tram (€7–€9 / ~$7.60–$9.80), but takes ~2h 30min.
Fastest (but expensive): taxi/direct transfer ~1h, €120–€150 (~$130–$163).
🚆 Train + Tram T2 – The Smart & Reliable Choice
The train + tram combination is by far the most recommended way to reach Peretola Airport from Lucca. It balances cost, speed, comfort, and frequency. Below we break down every step, ticket type, and practical tip.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Lucca Station (Stazione di Lucca) – board a Regionale or Regionale Veloce train toward Firenze SMN. Trains run roughly every 30–60 min, 05:00–23:00.
- Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) – alight at the main Florence station. Follow signs for Tram T2 (Vespucci) – the stop is just outside the main entrance (Piazza della Stazione).
- Tram T2 – ride to Peretola Airport (FLR) stop. Journey time ~20 min, frequency every 5–8 min during the day.
Train Types & Travel Time Comparison
| Train Type | Route | Duration (Lucca → SMN) | Frequency | Ticket Price (one-way) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regionale Veloce (RV) | Lucca → Pistoia → Prato → Firenze SMN | ~1h 20min | ~every 60 min | €8.50 – €9.00 (~$9.25–$9.80) |
| Regionale (R) | Lucca → Pistoia → Prato → Firenze SMN (more stops) | ~1h 35min–1h 50min | ~every 30–60 min | €7.20 – €7.80 (~$7.80–$8.50) |
Note: RV trains are slightly faster and have fewer intermediate stops; tickets for both types are valid for any regional train on the route within 4 hours of validation.
Tram T2 Details
- Route: Firenze SMN → Alamanni → Cascine → Peretola Airport (FLR)
- Duration: ~20 min end-to-end
- Frequency: every 5–8 min (peak), every 10–15 min (evening/weekend)
- Ticket: €1.50 (~$1.60) – buy from automatic machines at SMN or via ATAF app (valid 90 min).
- First/last tram: ~05:00 – ~00:30 (check seasonal variations).
Total Cost & Time Summary (Train + Tram)
Best combo (RV + T2): ~1h 40min–1h 50min • €10.00–€10.50 (~$10.90–$11.40).
Budget combo (R + T2): ~1h 55min–2h 10min • €8.70–€9.30 (~$9.50–$10.10).
Both options require 1 easy transfer at SMN.
Luggage & Comfort
Regional trains have spacious luggage racks and overhead compartments. The Tram T2 is low-floor with designated luggage areas – perfectly manageable even with large suitcases. Tip: avoid the 07:30–09:00 and 17:00–19:00 commuter peaks on the tram if you have bulky bags.
Where to Buy Tickets
- Trenitalia App (recommended) – search “Lucca → Firenze SMN” – buy and validate on your phone.
- Automatic machines at Lucca station – accept cash, card, contactless.
- Ticket office at Lucca station (limited hours).
- Tram ticket: machines at SMN tram stop or ATAF app – must be validated before boarding.
Reference: Trenitalia official timetables · ATAF tram info
🚌 Bus – The Budget-Friendly Alternative
If you're really watching your budget, the bus can save you a couple of euros, but expect a longer journey and at least one transfer. Here are the most practical bus routes from Lucca to Peretola Airport.
Option A: Lucca → Florence (Scandicci) + Tram T2
- Bus operator: Autolinee Toscane (line 420 or 421) – Lucca to Scandicci (Via XX Settembre).
- Duration: ~1h 15min–1h 30min to Scandicci.
- Cost: €5.00–€6.00 (~$5.45–$6.55).
- Then: from Scandicci take Tram T2 to Peretola Airport (~25 min, €1.50).
- Total: ~1h 50min–2h 10min • €6.50–€7.50 (~$7.10–$8.20).
Option B: Lucca → Florence SMN (direct bus) + Tram T2
- Bus operator: FlixBus or Autolinee Toscane (limited departures).
- Duration: ~1h 30min–1h 50min to Florence SMN.
- Cost: €5.00–€8.00 (~$5.45–$8.70).
- Then: Tram T2 from SMN to airport (~20 min).
- Total: ~1h 50min–2h 15min • €6.50–€9.50 (~$7.10–$10.35).
Bus vs Train – Quick Comparison
| Factor | Bus (Option A/B) | Train + Tram |
|---|---|---|
| Total time | ~1h 50min–2h 15min | ~1h 40min–2h 10min |
| Cost | €6.50–€9.50 (~$7.10–$10.35) | €8.70–€10.50 (~$9.50–$11.40) |
| Reliability | Traffic-dependent (especially A11) | Very reliable – unaffected by road traffic |
| Comfort + luggage | Limited luggage space; no toilet on some buses | Luggage racks + tram low-floor |
| Frequency | Every 1–2 hours (reduced Sunday) | Every 30–60 min (train) + every 5–8 min (tram) |
Verdict: The bus is slightly cheaper but takes about the same time as the train when traffic is light. However, during morning/evening rush the A11 motorway can add 20–40 min, making the train the more reliable choice.
Reference: Autolinee Toscane bus schedules · FlixBus Lucca–Florence
🚕 Taxi & Private Transfer – Fast & Direct (Premium)
If you value speed, privacy, or door-to-door convenience – especially with heavy luggage, late-night arrival, or as a group – a taxi or private transfer from Lucca to Peretola Airport is the best option. But it comes at a premium.
Price Range & Details
- Standard taxi (Lucca → FLR): €120–€150 (~$130–$163) for a sedan (up to 4 pax).
- Private transfer (pre-booked): €130–€180 (~$142–$196) depending on vehicle class (sedan, estate, minivan).
- Ride-hailing (Uber/Bolt): limited availability in Lucca; prices vary €110–€160 (~$120–$174) but not always reliable.
- Duration: ~50 min–1h 10 min via A11 motorway (traffic-dependent).
When to Choose Taxi / Private Transfer
| Situation | Recommended? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Family with small children + lots of luggage | ✅ Yes | Door-to-door, no stairs, no transfers |
| Late-night arrival (after 23:30) | ✅ Yes | Trains/trams stop; bus frequency drops sharply |
| Early morning flight (before 06:00) | ✅ Yes | First tram ~05:00; taxi gives you buffer time |
| Solo traveler / backpacker | ❌ No | Train + tram is 1/10 the cost and very easy |
| Group of 3–4 (cost split) | 🟡 Consider | €30–€40 per person – competitive with train if time is tight |
How to Book a Reliable Transfer
- Pre-book online: platforms like FlorenceTransfer.com or Viator offer fixed prices (€130–€170).
- Local taxi companies: Radio Taxi Lucca (+39 0583 493 333) – ask for a fixed quote.
- Always confirm: price includes tolls, luggage, and airport drop-off (no extra fees).
Pro tip: Shared shuttles (e.g., from Lucca to FLR) are rare – most are private. If you find one, expect ~€40–€60 per seat (~$44–$65).
🚗 Driving Yourself – Flexibility at a Cost
Driving from Lucca to Peretola Airport gives you maximum flexibility, but you need to factor in tolls, fuel, parking, and stress. Here's the real picture.
Route & Time
- Route: SS12 / A11 motorway – Lucca → Capannori → Prato → Florence – exit “Firenze Nord” or “Peretola”.
- Distance: ~70 km.
- Time: ~50 min–1h 10 min (without traffic).
- Toll cost: €6.00–€7.50 (~$6.55–$8.20) one-way (A11).
- Fuel cost: ~€10–€14 (~$11–$15) depending on car.
- Total one-way cost: ~€16–€22 (~$17–$24).
Parking at Peretola Airport
| Parking Lot | Distance to Terminal | Price per Day | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| P1 – Short Stay | ~100 m | €2.00/30 min (max €25/day) | For drop-off/pick-up only |
| P2 – Long Stay | ~300 m (free shuttle) | €12–€18/day (~$13–$20) | Best value for multi-day parking |
| P3 – Economy | ~1 km (shuttle) | €8–€12/day (~$8.70–$13) | Unpaved, less secure |
Reference: Peretola Airport official parking
Should You Drive?
Driving makes sense if you're already renting a car for a Tuscany road trip, or traveling with a group of 4+. Otherwise, the total cost (toll + fuel + parking) easily exceeds €30–€40 per day, making it more expensive than train + tram for 1–2 people. Plus, traffic on the A11 can be unpredictable – avoid 07:30–09:30 and 17:00–19:30.
✈️ Why Flying from Lucca to Peretola Airport Makes No Sense
At first glance, “flight” seems irrelevant for a 70 km journey – and you're right. But we often get asked: “Is there a domestic flight that could save time?” Let's settle this once and for all.
The Numbers Don't Lie
| Factor | Train + Tram | Taxi / Car | Hypothetical Flight (Lucca → FLR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Door-to-door time | ~1h 50min | ~1h | ~3h+ (to airport + check-in + security + flight + taxi) |
| Cost | €8.70–€10.50 | €120–€150 | €200+ (flight + transfer + luggage) |
| CO₂ (approx) | ~2 kg | ~15 kg | ~50 kg |
| Practicality | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Good | ❌ Absurd for 70 km |
The Only “Air” Scenario That Makes Sense
If you are already at another airport (e.g., Rome FCO, Milan MXP, or Pisa PSA) and need to reach Peretola, a connecting flight to FLR is possible via ITA Airways, Vueling, or Ryanair – but even then, the train from Rome or Milan is often faster and cheaper for the final leg. We recommend:
- From Pisa (PSA): train Pisa → Firenze SMN (~45 min) + tram – total ~1h 30min, €10.
- From Bologna (BLQ): train Bologna → Firenze SMN (~35 min) + tram – total ~1h 15min, €15.
Bottom line: For the Lucca → FLR journey, keep your feet on the ground.
💰 Cost & Time Comparison – All Options at a Glance
Use this table to quickly decide which option fits your budget and schedule.
| Mode | Total Time | Total Cost (1 pax) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 Train RV + Tram T2 | ~1h 40min–1h 50min | €10.00–€10.50 (~$10.90–$11.40) | 1 (SMN) | Speed + value ★ |
| 🚆 Train R + Tram T2 | ~1h 55min–2h 10min | €8.70–€9.30 (~$9.50–$10.10) | 1 (SMN) | Budget + reliable |
| 🚌 Bus (Lucca → Scandicci → T2) | ~1h 50min–2h 15min | €6.50–€7.50 (~$7.10–$8.20) | 1 (Scandicci) | 🔹 Cheapest option |
| 🚌 Bus (direct to SMN) + T2 | ~1h 50min–2h 15min | €6.50–€9.50 (~$7.10–$10.35) | 1 (SMN) | Budget (traffic risk) |
| 🚕 Taxi / Private transfer | ~50min–1h 10min | €120–€150 (~$130–$163) | 0 | Groups, late night, heavy luggage |
| 🚗 Car (incl. toll + fuel + parking/day) | ~50min–1h 10min | €30–€45 (~$33–$49) / day | 0 | Group 4+, road trip |
★ Best overall: Train Regionale Veloce + Tram T2 – fastest, affordable, and reliable. Cheapest: Bus to Scandicci + Tram T2.
🧳 Traveler Tips & Insider Advice for a Smooth Journey
Real-world know-how that can save you time, money, and hassle – from locals and frequent flyers.
1. Luggage – Use “Takkyubin” (Baggage Delivery) in Italy
Yes, Italy has a baggage transfer service similar to Japan's Takkyubin. Companies like Baggage Home or Stasher can pick up your luggage in Lucca and deliver it to FLR (or your hotel). Cost: ~€20–€35 per bag (~$22–$38). Perfect if you want to explore Florence hands-free for a few hours before your flight.
2. Navigation at Firenze SMN – Clear Signs
The tram T2 stop is directly outside the main entrance of SMN station (Piazza della Stazione). Look for the green “T2” signs – the station is called “Alamanni – Stazione SMN”. Don't be confused by the older T1 line – T2 is the one that goes to the airport.
3. Peak Season Booking – Essential
During Easter, April 25, May 1, and August (Ferragosto), trains can sell out. Book your train ticket in advance via the Trenitalia App (free reservation for regional trains not needed, but for peace of mind buy early). Trams cannot be booked – but frequency is high.
4. What About Night Arrivals?
- Last tram from SMN to airport: ~00:30 (check ATAF for exact schedule).
- Last train from Lucca to SMN: ~23:00 (Regionale).
- If you land after 23:30, you must take a taxi or pre-booked transfer – there is no 24/7 bus or train.
5. Validate Your Ticket – Always
Italian rail and tram tickets must be validated before boarding. For trains: stamp the paper ticket in the yellow machines at the platform entrance. For tram: tap your contactless card or scan the QR code from the ATAF app at the validator. Fines for invalid tickets start at €50 (~$55) – no excuses accepted.
6. SMN Station – Watch Your Belongings
Firenze SMN is a busy hub – pickpocketing does happen. Keep backpacks zipped and valuables in front pockets. The tram T2 can also be crowded during peak hours.
7. Buying Tram Tickets – Contactless Is Easiest
You can now tap your contactless credit/debit card directly on the validator at the tram stop – no need to buy a physical ticket. The system automatically caps the daily fare at €4.50 (~$4.90).
8. Accessibility
Both Regional trains and Tram T2 are fully wheelchair accessible with ramps and designated spaces. Lucca station has step-free access to platforms via lift. If assistance is needed, contact Trenitalia's “Sala Blu” at least 24h before.
Pro tip from locals: “The train + tram is so straightforward that even first-time visitors manage it easily. Don't be afraid to ask staff or fellow passengers – Italians are very helpful.”
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Lucca to Peretola Airport
1. Is there a direct train from Lucca to Peretola Airport?
No, there is no direct train. You must take a Regional train from Lucca to Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) and then transfer to Tram T2 to the airport. The transfer is easy – the tram stop is just outside the station. Total time ~1h 50min.
2. What is the cheapest way to get from Lucca to FLR airport?
The cheapest option is the bus to Scandicci + Tram T2 (~€6.50–€7.50 / ~$7.10–$8.20). Alternatively, a slow Regional train + Tram T2 costs ~€8.70 (~$9.50). Both take about the same time (~2h).
3. How much does a taxi from Lucca to Peretola Airport cost?
A standard taxi costs €120–€150 (~$130–$163) for a one-way trip (sedan, up to 4 passengers). Pre-booked private transfers are €130–€180 (~$142–$196). Travel time ~50 min–1h 10 min depending on traffic.
4. What is the fastest way from Lucca to Florence airport?
The fastest way is a taxi or private transfer (~1h door-to-door). If you prefer public transport, the Regionale Veloce train + Tram T2 is the fastest at ~1h 40min–1h 50min.
5. Can I take a bus from Lucca directly to Peretola Airport?
No direct bus. You must take a bus from Lucca to Florence (Scandicci or SMN) and then transfer to Tram T2 to the airport. The bus + tram combo is cheaper than the train but can be affected by traffic.
6. How do I get from Lucca to Peretola Airport late at night (after 11pm)?
After 23:00, trains and trams are very limited or stopped. Your only reliable option is a taxi or pre-booked private transfer (~€120–€150). Some ride-hailing apps (Uber/Bolt) may be available but are not guaranteed.
7. Is the train + tram combination easy with large luggage?
Yes, it's manageable. Regional trains have overhead racks and luggage areas. Tram T2 is low-floor with designated luggage zones. Avoid peak commuter hours (07:30–09:00, 17:00–19:00) if you have bulky bags. Alternatively, use a baggage delivery service.
8. Should I book train tickets in advance for Lucca → Florence?
For regional trains, no advance booking is needed – tickets are valid for 4 hours after validation and can be bought at the station any time. For high-speed trains (if you're connecting to another city), booking in advance saves up to 60%.