Florence “Amerigo Vespucci” Airport: location, history and how to reach the city

It may be considered the main gateway not only to Florence but also to the wider Tyrrhenian region of Tuscany: Florence Airport, also known as “Amerigo Vespucci”.

Though small, this airport boasts a fascinating history and a strategically important location. Here’s a closer look at where it is and how it connects to the city.

Where Florence Airport is located

The official name of the airport is Florence‑Peretola “Amerigo Vespucci” Airport. It is situated in the suburb of Peretola, to the north-west of the city centre, just 5 km in a straight line from Santa Maria Novella station and similarly close to the Duomo, in the Novoli/Rifredi district. Its location is ideal, as it lies near the city’s ring road and the A1/A11 motorway junction, making it a key hub for quick access to both Florence and the wider region of Tuscany.

The history of the airport

The origins of the airport date back to the early decades of the 20th century. It was initially established in 1910 as an airfield in the Campo di Marte area. Due to space constraints, it was later relocated to Peretola, where the new airport was officially inaugurated on 4 June 1931.

During the Second World War, the site was used first by the Regia Aeronautica and the Luftwaffe, and from 1944 by Allied forces. The first passenger terminal was introduced only in the 1950s, when scheduled flights operated by Alitalia and ATI began.

In 1984, the runway was extended as part of a wider redevelopment of the terminal and supporting infrastructure. Scheduled services resumed in 1986.

In 1990, the airport was named in honour of the renowned Florentine explorer Amerigo Vespucci. Since then, it has undergone further expansions, including upgrades to the terminal and the addition of new parking facilities.

How to get to the city centre from “Amerigo Vespucci” Airport

There are several ways to travel from Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport to the city centre. Below is a detailed overview of the main options:

• Tram – Line T2: the tram departs directly from the airport terminus and reaches Piazza dell’Unità, near Santa Maria Novella station, in around 20 minutes. Services run frequently, and a standard €1.70 urban ticket is all that’s needed. This is generally the quickest and most convenient way to reach the historic centre.
• Bus or shuttle service: operated by Autolinee Toscane, buses depart every 30 minutes towards Santa Maria Novella. Journey times range from 20 to 30 minutes, and fares are comparable to those of the tram.
• Taxi and car hire: taxis are available just outside the terminal, while car rental services are located inside the airport. Travel time to the city centre is typically between 15 and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
• Private shuttle and transfer services: ideal for groups or those carrying large amounts of luggage, pre-booked transfer services offer vans or private vehicles for a more tailored journey into the city.

Services and facilities at the airport

Despite its compact size, Amerigo Vespucci Airport offers all the essential services for passengers. Inside the terminal, travellers will find bars, restaurants, newsagents, duty-free shops, ATMs, and car hire desks.

Facilities for passengers with reduced mobility are available, along with information points and free Wi-Fi access. Both multistorey and open-air car parks cater for short and long stays, with different pricing options. A hotel is also located within walking distance of the terminal, a convenient choice for those with early morning flights.

Airport expansion plans and future developments

In recent years, there has been frequent discussion about expanding the airport, particularly with the addition of a new runway to boost its operational capacity. The plans also include a completely redesigned terminal, carefully integrated into the Tuscan landscape and developed with a strong focus on environmental sustainability. One of the most talked-about proposals is a green roof cultivated as a vineyard.

Article translated by Agnese Giardini

Tag

Transport and Mobility

Travel

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