How to Get from Peretola Airport to Santa Maria Novella Station

While there is no direct train station at Peretola Airport, Florence's excellent urban tram network provides a seamless and affordable connection to the main railway hub.

The T2 Tram "Vola in Bus" Line

This is the primary public transport link. The tram stop is located just outside Terminal 1 & 2.

• Route: T2 runs from Peretola Aeroporto to Unita. The key stop for the station is «Stazione Santa Maria Novella».
• Frequency: Every 5-8 minutes during daytime, less frequent in the early morning/late evening.
• Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes to SMN station.
• Operating Hours: Roughly from 5:00 AM to 12:30 AM.

Tickets & Validation

Purchase tickets before boarding from vending machines at the tram stop (cards/cash accepted).

• Single Ticket (BIT): €1.70, valid for 90 minutes on all tram and bus networks.
• Validation: You must validate your ticket by tapping it on the electronic validator inside the tram. Fines for non-validation are steep (€50+).
• Alternatives: Consider a 10 Ride Carnet or a 24/48/72-hour tourist pass if you'll be using public transport extensively in Florence. (Source: Autolinee Toscane Official Site).

For groups, those with heavy luggage, or travelers prioritizing comfort, taxis and pre-booked transfers are ideal.

Official Airport Taxis

The taxi rank is directly outside the arrivals hall. Use only licensed white taxis with a taxi sign.

• Fixed Fare to City Center: A fixed rate applies for rides from the airport to any address within the historic city walls (including SMN Station). As of 2024, this is €22.00 (daytime, Mon-Fri) and €25.30 (night, weekends/holidays). Confirm the fare with the driver before departure.
• Journey Time: 15-25 minutes, heavily dependent on traffic.
• Payment: Cash is preferred, but most taxis accept cards (ask beforehand).

Pre-Booked Private Transfers

Booking online in advance guarantees a meet-and-greet service.

• Pros: Driver meets you at arrivals with a sign, helps with luggage, fixed price agreed upfront, comfortable vehicles (sedans, vans).
• Cost: Typically €35-€60 for a standard sedan, depending on the service provider and vehicle class. Often similar to a taxi fare for solo travelers but more predictable for groups.
• Recommendation: Useful for families or if arriving on a late flight when public transport has stopped. (Source: Florence Airport Official Transport Info).

Operated by Autolinee Toscane, the “Airport Bus” shuttle is a direct coach service.

• Route: Direct from Peretola Airport to Santa Maria Novella Station (bus terminal), with a possible intermediate stop at the city's other main bus station, Fortezza da Basso.
• Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes.
• Travel Time: About 20-25 minutes.
• Cost: A one-way ticket is approximately €6.00 if purchased online in advance, or €8.00 if bought from the driver (cash only on board).
• Compared to Tram: Slightly more expensive than the tram, but offers more luggage space and a guaranteed seat. It runs on a similar schedule to the tram.

Walking is not recommended due to the distance (~5 km) and lack of pedestrian-friendly paths along main roads.

Rideshare Apps (Uber, etc.)

Uber operates in Florence but primarily offers Uber Black (luxury) and Uber Van at prices comparable to or higher than standard taxis. The standard UberX is often not available. The official taxi is usually a more straightforward and cost-equivalent choice from the airport.

Car Rental

Multiple rental agencies are located at the airport. However, driving to Santa Maria Novella Station is strongly discouraged. The station area is in a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL), where unauthorized access results in heavy fines. Parking near the station is extremely expensive and scarce. Rent a car only if you are immediately leaving Florence for the Tuscan countryside.

Luggage Strategy

The tram can get crowded. If you have large suitcases, consider the shuttle bus or taxi. Remember, Santa Maria Novella Station has left luggage offices if you need to store bags before check-in or after checkout.

Navigating Santa Maria Novella Station

SMN is a large, bustling station. The tram/bus will drop you at the western side (Piazza della Stazione). The main entrance, ticket offices, and train platforms are inside the grand building. Allow a few extra minutes to orient yourself if you have a connecting train to catch.

Money & Connectivity

Have some Euro cash (coins and small bills) for purchasing tram tickets from machines (though they accept cards) or paying the bus driver. The airport and station have free Wi-Fi, but consider getting a local eSIM or data plan for seamless navigation.

Peak Season & Special Events

During summer (June-August) or major fashion trade fairs at the Fortezza da Basso, traffic can be heavier and public transport more crowded. Allow extra time and consider booking private transfers well in advance during these periods.