Getting Around in Florence – Buses, Trams and Tickets Made Simple
Florence operates a compact and unified public transport system based on buses and a modern tram network, both running under a single ticket structure. Tickets are valid across all services, pricing is straightforward, and there are no zones within the city network.
Tickets & Prices
Florence uses a single, unified ticket system that is valid on buses and trams alike. There are no zones within the city network, which keeps things simple for visitors.
One-Ride Tickets
- Single ticket €1.70, $1.85* - Valid for 90 minutes from the moment of validation. During this period, you may change between buses and trams as often as needed, as long as the time limit is not exceeded.
- Single ticket bought on board €3.00, $3.25* - Available directly from the driver on selected bus services. This option is significantly more expensive and should only be used if no other purchase option is available.
- Block of 10 single tickets €15.50, $16.75* - A practical choice if you plan several rides but do not want a time-based pass.
Please note: Paper tickets must be validated immediately after boarding.
Time-Based Tickets
These tickets allow unlimited travel within their period of validity on all buses and trams and do not require validation after the first activation. They are particularly useful if you are staying outside the historic center or rely on public transportation several times per day.
- 24-hour ticket – €5.00, $5.40*
- 48-hour ticket – €8.50, $9.20*
- 72-hour ticket – €12.00, $13.00*
- Weekly ticket (7 days) – €18.00, $19.50*
*All prices are based on January 2026 rates
Good to know: Children under 6 years of age travel free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult. There are no other relevant reductions or free travel options available for visitors.
Smartphone App – The Most Convenient Option
AT Bus is the official smartphone app for public transportation in Florence and the easiest way to buy and manage tickets. Tickets purchased in the app are digital, always available on your phone, and do not require paper validation, which makes them especially practical for visitors. In addition to ticket purchases, the app allows you to plan routes, check connections, and view service information for buses and trams across the city. This makes it a reliable all-in-one tool for getting around Florence without unnecessary hassle.
Ticket Sales Points
If using a smartphone app is not your thing and you simply prefer a more traditional approach, there are several easy ways to purchase paper tickets.
- Ticket Machines: At major tram stops and key transfer hubs across Florence, large orange tickets machines provide a straightforward way to buy paper tickets. Card payments are widely supported, while cash options may be limited depending on the location.
- Tabacchi and Authorized Retailers: Paper tickets are commonly sold at Tabacchi shops and other authorized retailers displaying the public transport logo. These shops are widespread across the city.
- Purchase from the Driver: On selected bus services, tickets can be purchased directly from the driver. This option is significantly more expensive and is best seen as a last resort.
Public Transport Overview
Public transportation in Florence operates daily from around 5:00 a.m. until midnight, with regular daytime services across the city. During the day, buses and trams generally run at 10- to 15-minute intervals on main routes, with slightly longer gaps in outer districts. Weekend services follow the same structure, although frequencies may be somewhat reduced, especially in the evening.
- Buses: The backbone of Florence’s public transport system is formed by buses. They connect residential neighborhoods, outer districts, and areas not served by the tram system. On central routes during the day, services typically run every 10 to 15 minutes, while less frequent connections serve outer areas.
> Important note: On some routes, boarding may take place through the front door, and ticket checks can occur when entering the vehicle. - Trams: Florence’s modern tram system complements the bus network and operates on a small number of high-capacity lines. Trams run frequently during the day, usually every 5 to 10 minutes, and offer fast, reliable connections along major corridors.
- Airport Connections: Florence Airport is primarily connected to the city via the T2 tram line, which serves the main train station during regular operating hours.
> Important note: All options for travelling between the airport and the city center are explained separately in the guide Florence Airport – Getting to the City Center. - Night Services: After midnight, public transport is maintained through night bus services only. They run from midnight until 5:00 a.m. on selected routes. Most services operate at 30- to 60-minute intervals, with more frequent departures on central routes and reduced coverage toward outer districts.
Public Transport vs Walking – What Makes Sense?
ce’s historic city center is compact and largely pedestrian-friendly, which makes walking the most practical option for short distances and sightseeing. Public transport is best used for longer trips, outer districts, and connections between major transport hubs and the airport. In practice, walking works well in the city center, while buses and trams are most useful beyond it.
