Florence, a city renowned for its rich history and breathtaking architecture, offers a variety of public transportation options for both locals and tourists. The city’s public transportation system is primarily composed of buses, trams, and taxis, all operated by ATAF (Azienda Trasporti Area Fiorentina). For those who prefer a more active mode of transportation, Florence also offers bike-sharing and car-sharing services. Given the city’s compact size and efficient public transportation, it’s entirely possible for an expat living in Florence to comfortably live without a car, relying instead on these public transportation systems and walking.
Buses
The bus system in Florence is the most extensive form of public transportation in the city. Operated by ATAF, the buses cover a wide range of routes, reaching even the most remote corners of the city. The buses are generally safe to use at any time of the day, and they are a popular choice for women traveling alone or children going to school. A single ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 90 minutes from the time of validation. There are also daily, weekly, and monthly passes available for frequent travelers. The buses run from early morning until midnight, with a limited night service available on certain routes.
Trams
The tram system in Florence is a relatively new addition to the city’s public transportation network. Currently, there is only one tram line (T1) in operation, but it provides a fast and efficient service between the city center and the suburbs. The trams are safe, clean, and punctual, making them a popular choice for commuters. The fare structure is the same as the buses, with a single ticket costing €1.50. The trams run from 5 am until midnight, with a frequency of about every 4 minutes during peak hours.
Taxis
Taxis in Florence are a convenient but more expensive option for getting around the city. They can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from one of the many taxi stands scattered around the city. The taxis are metered, and the fare depends on the distance traveled and the time of day. They are generally safe and reliable, but it’s always a good idea to ensure that the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.
Bike-Sharing
For those who prefer a more active mode of transportation, Florence offers a bike-sharing service called Mobike. The service operates via a mobile app, which allows users to locate, unlock, and pay for the bikes. The bikes can be picked up and dropped off anywhere in the city, making it a flexible and convenient option for short trips. The cost is €0.69 per 20 minutes, and the service is available 24/7.
Car-Sharing
Car-sharing is another option for getting around Florence. The city has several car-sharing services, including Car2Go and Share’ngo. These services operate via a mobile app, which allows users to locate, book, and unlock the cars. The cars can be picked up and dropped off anywhere in the city, and the cost depends on the duration of use. While car-sharing can be a convenient option for occasional trips, the high cost and limited availability of parking in the city center make it less practical for daily use.
In conclusion, Florence’s public transportation system is efficient, affordable, and safe, making it entirely possible for an expat to live comfortably in the city without a car. Whether you prefer to travel by bus, tram, taxi, bike, or shared car, Florence has got you covered.
