Ever wondered what it’s like flying into one of Italy’s most convenient regional airports?
Florence Peretola Airport, officially known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR), serves as the primary gateway to one of the world’s most beloved Renaissance cities.
Located just 4 kilometers northwest of Florence’s historic center, this compact airport handles over 3 million passengers annually, making it a crucial entry point for travelers eager to explore Tuscany’s treasures.
And once you’ve landed, be sure to check out our list of the 15 best things to do in Florence to start your Tuscan adventure off right.
Location and Transportation Options
Here’s where Peretola really shines – and trust me, I learned this the hard way on my first visit when I took the wrong bus!
Getting to Florence City Center
Tramway Line T2: This is hands-down the best option. The tram connects directly to Florence’s city center, taking about 20 minutes to reach Santa Maria Novella station. Tickets cost around €1.50, and trains run every 4-7 minutes during peak hours.
ATAF Bus Services: Several bus lines serve the airport, including the Vola in Bus service that runs every 30 minutes. The journey takes roughly 25-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Taxi Services: Expect to pay between €20-25 for a taxi to the city center. The ride typically takes 15-20 minutes, but can stretch to 30 minutes during rush hour.
Car Rental: All major rental companies have desks at the airport. Having a car gives you incredible flexibility to explore Tuscany, though navigating Florence’s ZTL (limited traffic zones) can be tricky.
Parking at Florence Peretola Airport
The airport offers several parking options ranging from short-term (€2 per hour) to long-term parking (€9 per day). I always recommend booking parking in advance online – you can save up to 20% and guarantee your spot.
Airlines and Destinations
Peretola might be small, but it punches above its weight when it comes to connectivity. The airport serves both domestic and international routes, with several major carriers operating regular flights.
Domestic Routes: Vueling, ITA Airways, and other carriers offer connections to major Italian cities including Rome, Naples, Milan, and Catania. These routes are particularly convenient for travelers doing multi-city Italian tours.
European Destinations: You’ll find regular flights to major European hubs like Paris, London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Barcelona. Low-cost carriers like Vueling and Ryanair have made European travel incredibly affordable from Florence.
Seasonal Routes: During summer months, additional routes open up to popular Mediterranean destinations. I’ve seen flights to Greek islands, Spanish coastal cities, and other vacation hotspots.
The airport typically handles around 60 flights per day during peak season, though this can vary significantly between summer and winter schedules.
Terminal Facilities and Services
Don’t expect a massive international hub – Peretola’s charm lies in its compact, user-friendly design. The single terminal building makes navigation incredibly straightforward, which I genuinely appreciated after dealing with maze-like airports elsewhere!
Check-in and Security
The check-in area features both traditional counters and self-service kiosks. Security lines move relatively quickly due to the airport’s size, though I’d still recommend arriving 90 minutes early for European flights and 2 hours for any connections.
Shopping and Dining
Duty-Free Shopping: The main duty-free shop offers typical selections of perfumes, alcohol, chocolates, and Italian specialties. Prices are reasonable compared to larger airports.
Restaurants and Cafés: You’ll find several dining options including Italian cafés serving espresso and pastries, plus a full-service restaurant with Tuscan specialties. The paninis here are actually pretty decent!
Services: Currency exchange, ATMs, free WiFi throughout the terminal, and charging stations are readily available. There’s also a small business center if you need to catch up on work.
Tips for Travelers
Based on my experiences and mistakes at Peretola, here are some insider tips that’ll make your journey smoother:
Arrival Tips
Immigration and Baggage: Processing times are generally quick due to the airport’s size. EU passport holders zip through, while non-EU travelers rarely wait more than 15-20 minutes.
Ground Transportation: Download the ATAF bus app beforehand – it shows real-time schedules and you can buy tickets directly through the app. Much easier than fumbling for change!
Currency: There’s an exchange desk in the arrivals area, but rates are better in the city center. ATMs are plentiful and work with most international cards.
Departure Tips
Timing: I’ve never needed more than 90 minutes for European flights, but better safe than sorry. The airport gets surprisingly busy during morning and evening peaks.
Shopping: If you want authentic Tuscan products, the prices here are actually competitive with city center shops, plus you don’t have to carry purchases around Florence.
Food: Grab a proper Italian coffee before your flight – the airport cafés serve legitimate espresso, not the watered-down stuff you get on most airlines.
Nearby Attractions and Hotels
One of Peretola’s biggest advantages is its location. You’re literally minutes away from Florence’s incredible attractions, but there are also some hidden gems nearby that most tourists miss.
Airport Hotels
Hotel Villa Costanza: About 10 minutes away, this is perfect for early flights. They offer airport shuttles and the rates are reasonable.
NH Firenze: Slightly further but higher quality accommodations. Great if you’re arriving late or departing early.
Nearby Attractions
Parco delle Cascine: This massive park along the Arno River is perfect for morning jogs or evening strolls. It’s where locals go to escape the tourist crowds.
Villa di Castello: A stunning Medici villa with incredible gardens, just 15 minutes from the airport. Way less crowded than Boboli Gardens but equally beautiful.
Getting to Major Tuscany Destinations
Siena: About 1.5 hours by bus or car Pisa: 1 hour by train (via Florence) or car Chianti Region: 30-60 minutes by car depending on your destination San Gimignano: 1.5 hours by car
Practical Information
Contact Information
Airport Code: FLR
Phone: +39 055 30615
Website: https://firenze-airport.it/en/
Address: Via del Termine, 11, 50127 Firenze FI, Italy
Operating Hours
The airport typically operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, though this can vary based on flight schedules. Some services like restaurants and shops have more limited hours.
Accessibility Services
Peretola provides comprehensive accessibility services including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and special boarding procedures. Contact your airline at least 48 hours in advance to arrange assistance.
Lost and Found
Located in the arrivals area, the lost and found office operates during business hours. For items left on aircraft, you’ll need to contact your airline directly.
WiFi and Internet
Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Connection is generally reliable, though speeds can slow during peak hours when the airport is crowded.
Conclusion
Florence Peretola Airport might not win awards for size or amenities, but it absolutely nails the fundamentals – convenience, efficiency, and that genuine Italian charm that makes every arrival feel special.
Whether you’re starting a grand Italian adventure or wrapping up an unforgettable Tuscan experience, Peretola serves as the perfect gateway to one of the world’s most beautiful regions. The short distance to Florence’s historic center means you can go from airplane seat to Renaissance masterpiece in under an hour!
Remember to plan your ground transportation in advance, arrive with plenty of time for your departure, and don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with locals – Florentines are incredibly proud of their city and love sharing recommendations with visitors.
Safe travels, and I hope your experience at Florence Peretola Airport is as smooth and memorable as mine have been. Buon viaggio!
