Florence Airport

Airport in Florence

Florence Airport
Public Domain / Mattes

Florence Airport (FLR), officially named Amerigo Vespucci Airport, is the main gateway to the central Italian region of Tuscany. Located approximately 4 kilometres from Florence city centre, this compact and efficient airport is the starting point for travellers exploring the Renaissance art of the city, the Chianti vineyards, and the medieval hill towns of the region. Whether you're arriving for the first time or departing after a memorable trip, this guide explains everything you need to know about navigating the airport with ease.

Why This Airport Matters

Florence Airport is critical because of its unique geographical advantage: its exceptional proximity to the historic city center. Unlike its larger regional counterpart in Pisa, FLR allows travelers to move from the tarmac to Florence's main railway station, Santa Maria Novella, in about 20 minutes via the efficient tram system. This convenience is highly valued by tourists, business travelers, and the luxury travel market, ensuring a swift and seamless start or end to a Florentine journey.

Despite having a short, single runway that necessitates specific operating procedures and limits the size of incoming aircraft, the airport successfully handles over 3.5 million passengers annually. It serves as a vital strategic asset for Toscana Aeroporti, providing necessary capacity and direct European connectivity for a city that is one of the world’s most visited cultural capitals.

History and Significance

The airport, originally known as Peretola, began operations in the early 1930s. Its initial development was rudimentary, featuring a grass runway that evolved over decades to meet growing demand. In 1990, the facility was officially renamed after the celebrated Florentine explorer Amerigo Vespucci, reflecting the city’s profound historical connection to global exploration and cartography.

The true significance of Florence Airport lies in its challenging operational environment. Situated near the Monte Morello massif, its single, short, and relatively narrow runway dictates that aircraft generally take off in one direction (towards the city) and land from the other. This unique constraint has historically limited its capacity and the types of planes it can handle, yet it has become a point of pride for pilots and air traffic control, proving that despite geographical hurdles, the airport remains a crucial, reliable connection for Tuscany.

Airport Layout and Quick Facts

Florence Airport consists of a single passenger terminal building, which contributes significantly to its reputation for efficiency and easy navigation. All operations—check-in, security, gates, and arrivals—are contained within this one structure. The main departures area is located on the first floor, while arrivals and public transportation links are found on the ground floor.

A key quick fact is that the airport’s runway is notably short (approximately 1,560 meters), restricting the airport to smaller and medium-sized regional and narrow-body jets. The terminal operates during specified hours, generally from 4:00 AM to 12:30 AM local time, adapting to the day’s flight schedule. All passenger services and facilities are strategically placed to maximize convenience within the compact space.

Where to Stay Close to Florence Airport

Given the airport's close proximity to the city centre, most travellers choose hotels within Florence itself. However, for extreme convenience, such as a very early flight or a late arrival, several modern options are located just a few minutes away by car or tram in the Peretola area. These hotels often cater specifically to airport travellers, providing simple shuttle access or easy access to the T2 tram line.

Getting To and From Florence Airport

By Bus

While the former “Vola in Bus” shuttle service has largely been replaced by the more efficient tram line, occasional private bus and shuttle services are still used, particularly for charter groups or direct transfers to other Tuscan cities. Always check current public transport options, prioritizing the T2 tram line.

By Taxi

Taxis offer the quickest door-to-door service to central Florence, taking approximately 15 minutes. Taxis operate on a fixed-rate fare to the historic city center, usually around €22–€28, depending on the time of day and supplements for luggage or holidays. The taxi rank is located directly outside the Arrivals area.

By Train

There is no direct heavy rail service to the airport. However, the Tram Line T2 functions as an excellent rail link. It connects the “Peretola – Aeroporto” stop (a short walk from the terminal) directly to the Unità stop, which is adjacent to the main Santa Maria Novella (SMN) railway station in the city centre. The journey takes around 20 minutes.

By Car

The airport is easily accessible via the Viale Alessandro Guidoni, which connects to the A1 and A11 motorways. The drive to central Florence takes about 15–30 minutes, depending on traffic. Drop-off areas are clearly marked, and a variety of short- and long-term parking facilities are available nearby.

By Transfers and Shuttles

Due to the dispersed location of car rental offices, a compulsory, complimentary shuttle bus connects the terminal to the Car Hire Terminal located on Via Palagio degli Spini. Many hotels also provide pre-booked private transfers or courtesy shuttle services.

Arriving at Florence Airport

The arrival experience at Florence Airport is typically very fast, largely thanks to its single, compact terminal. After disembarking, passengers proceeding from the Schengen Zone move quickly to the baggage claim area, while international arrivals must briefly stop at passport control. The small size of the facility means baggage retrieval is usually rapid.

Once luggage is collected, travelers exit directly into the Arrivals hall. This area is equipped with the Tourist Information office and provides immediate access to ground transport. The Tram T2 stop and the Taxi rank are located just outside the terminal doors, making the transition to the city centre remarkably efficient.

Money Exchange & Currency Tips for Italy

The official currency used in Florence and throughout Italy is the Euro (€). The best advice for managing currency is to rely primarily on ATMs (known locally as Bancomats), which dispense Euros and generally offer the most competitive exchange rates compared to dedicated exchange bureaus. Several ATMs are available within the Arrivals and Departures halls of FLR.

Major credit and debit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are widely accepted in Florence’s hotels, upscale restaurants, and major shops. However, cash is still essential for small transactions, such as tram tickets, small cafés, or market stalls. While the airport does host a currency exchange office, use it only if absolutely necessary and for a small amount, as the exchange rates are typically less favorable than using a Bancomat.

SIM Cards & Connectivity

Connectivity at Florence Airport is modern and functional. The airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi internet access throughout the terminal, which is generally fast and reliable enough for basic communications, email, and travel planning. Dedicated charging points are also available in the seating areas.

For long-term mobile service in Italy, you will need a local SIM card. Major Italian carriers include TIM, Vodafone, and Iliad. Tourist plans offering ample data are widely available. While the airport may have a small kiosk or newsagent selling starter SIM kits, the best place to purchase and activate a SIM card is at an official carrier store or a larger licensed electronic retailer in central Florence.

Departing from Florence Airport

When departing from FLR, travelers should plan to arrive approximately two hours prior to a short-haul flight and three hours for a long-haul international flight, even given the airport’s efficiency. Check-in desks are located on the ground floor. After checking in and dropping off baggage, passengers proceed to the security checkpoint.

Security screening is quick but thorough, after which passengers proceed to the departure gates, located primarily on the first floor. The departure lounge offers a modest but high-quality selection of services, including a duty-free shop and several dining options, ensuring a pleasant wait before boarding your flight.

Airport Services and Facilities

Food and Drink

Several options are available, including a café/bar in the public area and a dining spot, bar, and vending machines located airside (after security).

Shops

The airport features a shopping area including a duty-free shop, newsagents, and stores selling typical Florentine and Tuscan products, such as leather goods and local delicacies.

ATMs and Currency

ATMs (Bancomats) for Euro withdrawals and a dedicated currency exchange office are available in the Arrivals and public areas.

Wi-Fi and Charging

Complimentary Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the terminal. Charging stations are available in the waiting areas.

SIM Cards

SIM cards can be purchased from small retail points or the newsagent, though official carrier stores in the city offer better selection.

Family and Accessibility Facilities

The single-level terminal is highly accessible with ramps and lifts. Facilities for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) can be pre-arranged with airlines. Baby changing and family facilities are also available.

Medical and Assistance Points

Basic first-aid services are provided, and the Information Desk is staffed to assist with general inquiries and special assistance needs.

Lounges at Florence Airport

Florence Airport hosts an exclusive passenger lounge: the VIP Lounge (also known as the Masaccio Lounge or Aeroporti VIP Club Toscana). It is located airside on the first floor, after security.

The lounge provides a quiet, comfortable space with amenities including complimentary snacks, beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), Wi-Fi, and reading materials. Access is available to eligible passengers flying Business Class, members of accredited programs like Priority Pass, or by purchasing a day pass at the door.

Florence Airport Hotels

These hotels provide maximum convenience near the airport and easy access to the Tram T2 line into the city:

Renting a Car at Florence Airport

Renting a car at Florence Airport is an excellent choice for travelers planning to explore the Tuscan countryside, especially the Chianti wine region or cities like Siena and San Gimignano. The airport hosts many major rental companies, including Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Sixt.

Due to limited space near the terminal, the car rental companies are consolidated into a dedicated, off-site Car Hire Terminal on Via Palagio degli Spini. Upon arrival, travelers should proceed to the designated pickup point for the mandatory, complimentary shuttle bus that runs frequently (every 20 minutes) to transport customers to the rental offices.

Flights and Airlines Operating at FLR

Florence Airport (FLR) focuses primarily on European and domestic short-haul routes. Due to the length of its single runway, it cannot accommodate large wide-body aircraft, specializing instead in narrow-body jets like the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737 series, and regional turboprops.

Vueling and Volotea use FLR as a focus city, offering numerous connections across Spain and other destinations. Other major airlines include Air France, Lufthansa, British Airways, and KLM, providing essential links to major European hubs like Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and London. The majority of traffic is concentrated in the Schengen Area, with some non-Schengen routes extending the airport’s reach.

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Practical Tips for Using Florence Airport

  • Tram is King: Utilize the T2 tram line for the most efficient, predictable, and economical transport to Florence city centre.
  • Fixed Taxi Fare: Always confirm the fixed-rate fare with the taxi driver before setting off to avoid any meter disputes.
  • Car Rental Shuttle: Remember to allocate extra time for the mandatory shuttle transfer between the terminal and the off-site Car Hire Terminal.
  • Arrive Early: Despite the small terminal size, arrive at the recommended two-to-three-hour window, especially given the short runway operations that can sometimes cause minor delays.
  • Check Luggage Size: If traveling with excessive or non-standard luggage, confirm handling policies, as the smaller aircraft used by many airlines may have stricter limitations.

Can You Sleep Overnight at the Airport?

Sleeping overnight at Florence Airport is not recommended and may be restricted. The terminal is not open 24 hours a day, with passenger services generally operating between 4:00 AM and 12:30 AM. After the last scheduled flight, airport security and staff typically close or clear the terminal.

If the airport remains accessible past midnight, the facilities will be fully shut down. Seating options are standard, metal benches which are uncomfortable, and the lighting is bright. Security may move passengers along if they are attempting to camp out. For any flight outside of the core operating hours, a nearby hotel or accommodation in the city centre is a safer, quieter, and far more comfortable alternative.

Final Thoughts

Florence Airport, Amerigo Vespucci, is a highly efficient, compact, and strategically located gateway that beautifully complements the world-class city it serves. It offers the fastest route from air travel directly into the heart of the Italian Renaissance, maximizing a traveler's time in Tuscany. Despite its operational constraints, the airport's modern services and swift transport links ensure that your journey into and out of Florence is handled with classic Italian grace and efficiency.

The Florence Airport appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Florence!

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Visiting Florence Airport

Address: Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR), Via del Termine, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy
Florence: 6 km
Lucca: 56 km
Pisa: 65 km
Telephone: +39 055 3061300
Official Website

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