The hustle and bustle of people at Florence’s train station

Photo © Benedetta Perissi

How to get around Tuscany by public transportation

A brief guide to traveling in Tuscany in a sustainable and accessible way, combining buses, trains, cabs and ferries

Tuscany, with its cities of art, scenic hills and picturesque coastline, is one of the most visited regions in Italy. Traveling around Tuscany in a sustainable and practical way is essential to fully experience the area. Buses, trains, ferries and cabs offer numerous options for exploring the region without having to resort to a private vehicle, ensuring efficient connections even for people with reduced mobility.

Contents

1.

Getting around by bus
2.

Getting around by train
3.

Getting around by cab
4.

Getting around by ferry

Getting around by bus

A bus by night

Buses provide a versatile solution for connecting cities, towns and rural areas. Autolinee Toscane operates much of the public road transportation in the region and offers useful information on schedules, routes and services for people with disabilities. Major cities, such as Florence, Siena and Pisa, are also well connected by suburban lines, allowing for sustainable and flexible planning of your route. Many modern buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps and dedicated spaces for people with reduced mobility.

Getting around by train

A regional train passes through the Marradi area along the Faentina line, traversing a hilly landscape with rural houses and green fields

Train on the Faentina Line in Marradi - Credit: Antonio Martinetti

The Tuscan rail network is operated by Trenitalia and the regional service Trasporto Ferroviario Toscano, allowing fast travel between major cities and to less central villages. Regional trains, often combined with bus connections, optimize time and reduce environmental impact. There are also trains accessible to people with disabilities, with dedicated carriages and wheelchair spaces that can be booked in advance.

Getting around by cab

Close up of a cab sign in the city center

A taxi in the historic center - Credit: Valentin Ivantsov

Taxis are a practical solution for quick and flexible travel, especially in cities or areas not served by public transportation. In many Tuscan cities there are reservation services online or through dedicated apps, with various companies providing vehicles equipped for people with disabilities. While more expensive than buses or trains, cabs offer comfort and accessibility in all seasons.

Getting around by ferry

The town of Porto Santo Stefano, as seen from the ferry traveling in the direction of Giglio Island

By ferry from Porto Santo Stefano to Giglio Porto - Credit: Marta Mancini

For those who wish to explore the Tuscan islands, the use of ferries and sea connections is a viable alternative. The islands of the Tuscan Archipelago can be reached by regular boat services operated by:

Toremar for the islands of Elba, Capraia, Giglio, Pianosa and Gorgona
Moby for the island of Elba
Blu Navy for the island of Elba
Corsica Ferries for the island of Elba
MareGiglio for the islands of Giglio and Giannutri
Aquavision for the islands of Elba, Capraia, Giglio and Pianosa
Toscana Mini Crociere for the islands of Elba, Capraia, Giglio, Giannutri, Pianosa and Gorgona

The water transport companies provide information on services for people with reduced mobility, making boat trips accessible to all. In addition, the islands are serviced by taxi boats that allow you to get around and explore the area with private transfers. In this article, you can find details on how to reach them and the various links.

Getting around Tuscany by public transportation is simple and sustainable. By planning routes combining buses, trains, ferries and cabs, cities and territories can be explored responsibly, reducing the environmental impact and ensuring accessibility for all travelers. Before leaving, it is best to consult specific online guides, such as those dedicated to Florence and regional services, to optimize your time and connections.