Private car transfer from Bologna to Florence

Sprawling tunnels break up the scenic views and offer shade from the Italian sunshine. However, every exit propels you into a new postcard image and closer to your final destination. You can lose a sense of time while cruising through Tuscany's iconic landscape, littered with hilltop towns and quaint dirt-back roads woven together by towering cypress trees.

The busy lanes of Tuscany's capital contrast with the quaint settings on the road from Bologna to Florence. If you choose a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation, you'll be ready to explore its gems from the get-go. To help you discover how you can arrive in the La Dolce Vita spirit, we created an extensive travel guide below!

Early Florence

Julius Caesar instantly recognized the strategic importance of Florence for trade routes and as a military post. So in 51 AD, the Roman Empire established a city here called "Florentia", meaning flourishing.

Florence hit a blip after the fall of the Roman Empire. The Ostrogoths, Byzantines, Lombards, and Franks controlled the region at one point until the 12th century. However, the 14th century reignited Florence as a prosperous Tuscany town.

Florence was the birthplace of the Renaissance, where world-renowned artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo created their most famous artworks. The Medici family also played a role in its development. The clan formed the world's wealthiest and most respected bank, generating significant revenue for the city.

Modern Florence

Florence doesn't appear to be a modern city to the naked eye. Elegant Renaissance buildings still line the cobblestone streets, and numerous Baroque cathedrals facing charming squares give the feeling that the old town is clinging to its golden age—it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its wealth of history. Even the traditional restaurants, known as buche, have gone underground in ancient wine cellars and serve only authentic dishes. You won't find cappuccinos after noon or spaghetti with meatballs here!

If you scratch beneath the surface, you'll find that Florence isn't stuck in the Middle Ages. But it's rather proud of its traditions. Its modern infrastructure allows you to appreciate its vast museum scene and trendy fashion lanes home to Gucci and Prada, letting shopaholics get lost in their paradise. The subtle blends of old and new are why Florence is one of Europe's most enticing destinations!

• Language: Italian
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Climate: humid subtropical
• Time zone: GMT+1
• Plug types: C, F, and L
• Fun fact: Guccio Gucci founded Gucci in Florence!

Explore castles en route

Italy is home to around 45,000 castles. Fortunately, Tuscany and Emilia Romagna have one of the most fascinating of these landmarks nationwide!

Rocchetta Mattei Castle is a unique fortress in this part of Europe due to its fusion of Gothic and Moorish designs. But if you want to venture through a more traditional fort, climb the crenelated walls and tower of the Emperor's Castle in Prato!

Understand the ways of life

Although those working within the tourism industry or well-known eateries speak English, many locals in Bologna and Florence only communicate in Italian. So learning some basic phrases before you arrive is helpful.

Also, knowing the tipping cultures, late eating hours, and _riposo _times between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM will make your trip more straightforward. Bring a trustworthy guidebook for the drive, or speak to your local Daytrip driver to discover the secrets!

Trains from Bologna to Florence

The train is the fastest and by far the most popular way for locals and tourists to travel from Bologna to Florence. Italotreno and Trenitalia offer a balanced service between comfort and affordability around 48 times daily.

All direct trains depart from Bologna Central Station and arrive at Firenze Santa Maria Novella Station. You can buy tickets at the train station or online through Italotreno or Trenitalia at least 30 days before departing for the lowest fares.

• Cheapest train ticket price: $10.50 (€9.50)
• Average train ticket price: $28 (€26)
• Fastest train duration: 37 minutes
• Longest train duration: 38 minutes
• First train departure: 6:27 AM
• Last train departure: 10:10 PM

Daytrip from Bologna to Florence

Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the best mode of transportation from Bologna to Florence if you prioritize comfort or convenience. You won't have to hike through town with your luggage to reach your departure point by 9:00 AM. Your professional driver will collect you directly from your hotel and handle your bags at the time that best suits you.

Every minute of every day should be an adventure on your well-deserved vacation. So, we don't want you stuck in a vehicle for over 1.5 hours. That's why we allow you to take advantage of our sightseeing packages and create a unique travel path from Bologna to Florence.

If you love hiking, stop to admire the 15,500 acres of unspoiled rolling hills in Monte Sole Historical Park and pay respect to the 778 innocent lives Nazi Germany murdered here during World War II. If you prefer the hustle and bustle of city life, the charming city of Prato will provide plenty of monuments and endless wine bars for entertainment!

• Seats from: $59.50 (€55)
• Door-to-door duration: 1 hour and 40 minutes
• English-speaking driver
• Equipped for pets, kids, groups, or those with limited mobility
• 24/7 customer service
• Free cancellation 24 hours before departing

Eat through Mercato Centrale

Most tourists immediately head to Piazza della Signoria to sample Italian dishes in "traditional" restaurants. However, you'll never find residents eating in these establishments. You must head down a side path or the Mercato Centrale to appreciate its authentic flavors and blend in with the locals.

This sizable market hall allows you to sample various foods from dozens of local vendors. Fresh pasta, Neapolitan pizzas, and locally produced gelatos are only some of the delicacies that will entice you, and the lively atmosphere will keep you here longer than expected!

Admire the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is unquestionably the jewel of Florence's treasure chest of attractions. Its iconic black-and-white facade began construction in 1296 and towers 374 feet above the cityscape today.

Its interior is decorated with lavish golden features, and a stunning tiled floor is just as impressive as the outside. But a hike to the Duomo will provide the most spectacular views of Giorgio Vasari's exquisite fresco and vistas overlooking Florence's UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Cross the Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is Florence's oldest and most picturesque bridge, spanning 311 feet across the Arno River, with charming shops lining its cobbled sidewalks. Originally home to butchers, the shops are now occupied by jewelers, art dealers, and souvenir sellers.

Although you may need some cash from local vendors, Ponte Vecchio is free to stroll across. Stores close at 7 PM. But afterward, you can enjoy the setting without the herds of tourist groups.