Florence Frequently Asked Questions
How is the public transportation in Florence?
Florence is a tiny city, and therefore can be covered easily on foot. If you avoid the main drags around the Duomo, Uffizi and Piazza Repubblica, you’ll find yourself wandering along peaceful Renaissance side streets. Otherwise, your best option is the bus. You’ll need to purchase your ticket in a tabacchi (tobacco shop) before boarding. Be especially attentive on bus 7—this bus goes to Fiesole and therefore transports many tourists and pickpockets! You can consult bus routes and schedules at the following site: www.ataf.net
Is the water safe to drink in Florence?
The water is safe but doesn’t taste great. Most Florentines drink bottled water.
What’s the best way to get to Siena?
Siena is easily reached by bus. The SITA rapida bus leaves the station near Santa Maria Novella at least once an hour on weekdays, starting at 6:45, with the last bus leaving at 8:15pm. The ride is about 75 minutes, and costs €6.50 one way. The stop is in middle of Siena, while the train will leave you on the outskirts, forcing you to get a taxi. Where is the SITA station in Florence? On Via Santa Caterina di Siena, just a block southwest from the front of Santa Maria Novella station.
Where can I park in the city center?
There are a few public parking lots in the center of Florence. The easiest to find is probably the Santa Maria Novella parking lot, since you can just follow signs to the main train and bus station. You may want to refer to the following site to see if there are more convenient lots for your destination: http://www.firenzeparcheggi.it/index.php?lang=en Click on the P, and you will find a list of parking lots. By clicking on each lot, you will find info regarding operating hours, rates and directions.
Do you recommend making Florence a day trip?
Considering Florence was the center of the Italian Renaissance, and is home to thousands of important pieces of art - both in situ and on display in the various museums, definitely not. Florence, although small, has ancient roots, medieval churches, Renaissance art, modern fashion and a rich tradition of food and wine.
Do you need reservations at the Uffizi and Accademia?
It’s always best to have reservations for these two museums, whatever the season. There is a €3 fee on top of the ticket price for reserved tickets, but this will save you sometimes hours of waiting in the normal line. In the busy season, you may not even get into the Uffizi if you don’t have reservations. Context Florence has a reservation service in the “Concierge” section of our homepage. If you attend our Arte Firenze or Michelangelo Seminar walks, your tickets are included when you book.
Where can I buy books in English?
At Feltrinelli International on Via Cavour, 12/20. Open 9-7:30 and Paperback Exchange on Via delle Oche 4r. Open weekdays 9-7:30 and Saturdays 10-7:30.
Where can I see films in English?
At the Odeon, Via Sassetti, 1 (Piazza della Repubblica). The Odeon shows some popular films in their original language, including American films. Info: 055.214.068
What is an “aperitivo”?
Similar to the Milanesi, Florentines flock to their favorite locale at the end of the work day for a pre-dinner drink and an open buffet. For the price of a drink, you can enjoy crostini, pasta, risotto, and sometimes even mussels, fresh vegetables and other creative snacks.