Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci) is Italy’s largest international airport and a major hub for travelers visiting Florence. Located about 250 km south of Florence, there are several efficient transportation options to travel between the two cities. Here’s a guide to the best ways to get from Rome Airport to the city center of Florence.

Train (Via Rome Termini Station)

Taking the train is one of the most popular and efficient ways to travel from Rome Airport to Florence. However, it requires a transfer at Rome Termini, the main train station in the city.

Step 1: From Rome Fiumicino Airport to Rome Termini Station

To get from Fiumicino Airport to Rome Termini, you can take the Leonardo Express train. This direct service runs frequently and provides a fast connection to the city center.

• Travel time: Approximately 32 minutes.
• Cost: Around 14 EUR per ticket.
• Frequency: Trains run every 15-30 minutes, from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Ticket purchase: Tickets can be bought at the airport’s train station, at ticket machines, or online.

Step 2: From Rome Termini to Florence

Once you arrive at Rome Termini, you can catch a high-speed train to Florence. Frecciarossa and Italo offer high-speed services with frequent departures.

• Travel time: The high-speed trains take about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach Florence’s Santa Maria Novella (SMN) train station.
• Cost: Ticket prices vary depending on the train and time of booking but typically range from 30 to 60 EUR.
• Frequency: Trains depart every 20-30 minutes throughout the day.
• Ticket purchase: Tickets can be purchased online in advance, at the station, or through mobile apps.

This option is quick and reliable, offering comfort and a scenic journey through the Italian countryside.

Bus (Flixbus or Sena)

Another option is to take a direct bus from Rome Fiumicino Airport to Florence. Several companies, such as FlixBus and Sena, operate long-distance bus services between the two cities.

• Travel time: Approximately 4 hours.
• Cost: Prices typically range from 15 to 25 EUR, depending on the company and time of booking.
• Frequency: Buses operate several times a day, though less frequently compared to trains.
• Ticket purchase: Tickets can be purchased online or at the bus station at the airport.

This is a more budget-friendly option for those who don’t mind a longer journey.

Private Transfer or Taxi

For those seeking convenience and privacy, a private transfer or taxi from Rome Airport to Florence is a good option. Although this is one of the most expensive ways to travel, it offers comfort and a direct, door-to-door service.

• Travel time: The journey by car takes about 3 hours, depending on traffic.
• Cost: Private transfers generally cost between 300 and 500 EUR, depending on the vehicle type and service provider. Taxis are also available, but the fare can be even higher.
• Booking: Private transfers should be booked in advance online, while taxis are available outside the arrivals terminal at the airport.

This option is ideal for families or groups with a lot of luggage, or those looking for a hassle-free, comfortable experience.

Car rental

If you prefer the flexibility to explore Tuscany at your own pace, renting a car at Rome Fiumicino Airport is another option.

• Travel time: Driving from Rome to Florence takes approximately 3 hours via the A1/E35 highway.
• Cost: The cost of renting a car varies based on the rental company and vehicle type. Additional costs include tolls for the highway (about 18 EUR) and parking fees in Florence, which can be expensive and limited in the city center.
• Parking: If driving to Florence, it’s important to plan ahead for parking, as the historic city center has restricted traffic zones (ZTL), and parking spaces can be scarce.

This is a good option if you plan to visit other cities in Tuscany or prefer traveling at your own pace.

Flight from Rome to Florence

Although less common due to the short distance between the cities, some travelers opt to take a domestic flight from Rome to Florence.

• Travel time: The flight itself takes about 1 hour, but when you add the time required for check-in, security, and travel to and from the airports, the total travel time can be closer to 3-4 hours.
• Cost: Domestic flights between Rome and Florence can range from 50 to 150 EUR, depending on how early you book and the airline.
• Airlines: ITA Airways offers flights between Rome and Florence, with several departures each day.

While flying can be convenient, the time saved may be minimal when compared to the train or car options, especially when considering the total time spent at airports.

How to get from Florence airport to the city center?

We wrote about it here.

Ridesharing Services (BlaBlaCar)

For a more economical and social option, you can use ridesharing services like BlaBlaCar, which connects drivers already traveling from Rome to Florence with passengers who can share the ride and cost.

• Travel time: Around 3 hours, depending on traffic.
• Cost: Typically around 15-30 EUR.
• Booking: You can arrange rides through the BlaBlaCar app or website.

This is an affordable option, ideal for budget travelers who don’t mind sharing the ride with others.

Traveling from Rome Fiumicino Airport to Florence is relatively straightforward, with several options to suit different needs and budgets. The train is the fastest and most popular choice, offering comfort and efficiency, while buses provide a cheaper, but slower alternative. Private transfers and taxis offer convenience and comfort, though at a higher cost, while car rentals give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. For budget-conscious travelers, ridesharing services provide an affordable option.