On arrival at Florence Airport head to the bus stops outside the arrivals hall and pick up the courtesy shuttle bus to the car rental area. Florence Amerigo Vespucci Airport, known locally as Peretola is just 15 minutes drive from the city centre. Our city branch is located inside Santa Maria Novella Train Station.
Driving in the historic city centre is only authorised for residents with permits and is strictly enforced. Florence also has some of the tiniest city streets in Europe and many confusing one-way systems making your Sat Nav an invaluable aid to a stress-free visit. Once away from the city, though, Florence enjoys fast and generally well-maintained road links with the rest of Italy or simply enjoy a pleasant meander through the country roads of Tuscany.
Within the city only park in blue zones or clearly marked public garages. These are all pay and display parking. Extensive free parking is available in the Piazzale Michelangelo to the South of the town. Time limits are strictly enforced and it is a very scenic 20-minute walk into the heart of the city.
There is so much to see and do in Florence that you're sure to be tempted back for another visit, but this time start in the historic centre with a tour of Florence Cathedral and the medieval Baptistry next to it. The cathedral dominates the skyline with its huge dome designed by Brunelleschi. Take a tour of the Palazzo Vecchio before heading to the Mercato del Porcellino to shop for a picnic lunch. It's a must in Florence to stroll over the Ponte Vecchio, possibly one of the most famous bridges in the world. Stop to browse the jewellery shops on the way. End your first day in Florence by taking the short drive up to the top of the Fiesole Hill and watch the setting sun add a glow to the city's roofs.