Traveling between Florence and Rome is a classic Italian journey, with plenty to see, taste, and discover along the way. If you’re planning your first trip to Italy or organizing how to hop between the country’s most famous cities, you’ll definitely want to understand the distance from Florence to Rome, and the best ways to make the trip. In this traveler-friendly guide, we’ll make it simple to compare options, explain the main routes, and help you choose the most comfortable or scenic journey for your plans.
For a deeper dive into Florence’s wonders once you arrive, check out this Florence city guide for more walking routes and local tips.
How Far Is Florence from Rome? Understanding the Distance
The direct distance “as the crow flies” from Florence to Rome is about 143 miles (230 kilometers). But for travelers, the actual travel distance depends a lot on how you get there.
- By train: The train journey uses the modern high-speed network, covering roughly 162 miles (260 kilometers) of rail line connecting the two cities.
- By car: The main highway route is about 170 miles (275 kilometers), following the A1 autostrada (Italy’s main north-south highway).
- By bus: Most intercity buses cover a distance similar to the roads/cars , roughly the same as the A1.
- By air: Flights cover the short direct distance, but factoring in check-in, airport transport, and waits, flying isn’t usually the quickest option.
In practical terms, Florence and Rome are close enough that you can travel between them easily in a morning or afternoon, but plan to spend at least 1.5 to 2 hours in transit, not counting time to and from stations or airports.
Quick Comparison Table: Travel Distance and Time from Florence to Rome
| Method | Distance (miles/km) | Average Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-Speed Train | 162 / 260 | 1.5–2 hours | Speed, comfort, scenic travel |
| Car/Driving | 170 / 275 | 3–4 hours | Flexible stops, countryside |
| Bus | 170 / 275 | 3–4 hours | Budget, no car needed |
| Flight | 143 / 230 (direct) | 3–4 hours (including airport time) | Long connection from airport to city, only essential if connecting abroad |
Traveling Between Florence and Rome by Train
Most travelers prefer the train to journey between Florence and Rome, and for good reason. Italy’s high-speed rail line makes the trip between these two famous cities fast, easy, and comfortable. Direct, non-stop high-speed services take as little as 1 hour and 30 minutes, with frequent departures daily. Trains run from early morning to late evening. The main Florence station is Santa Maria Novella (Firenze S. M. Novella), and in Rome, the main station is Termini.
There are two major high-speed train operators serving this route:
- Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa trains (Official ticket booking)
- Italo trains (Official ticket booking)
Both offer clean, modern trains with free Wi-Fi, comfortable seats, air conditioning, snack or food service, and plenty of space for luggage. Discounts are common if you book your tickets in advance, and both second-class and first-class options are available. Trains generally depart every 15 to 30 minutes in each direction.
One bonus: both Florence and Rome’s main railway stations are in the heart of their historic centers. This means no expensive, time-consuming taxis or airport buses , you can step off the platform and be right in the city, ready to explore.
Slower, cheaper regional trains do exist for this route, but they take almost four hours and offer fewer comforts. Most visitors find the small savings are not worth the extra travel time.
Pro Tips for Train Travelers
- Book early for the best fares, especially during spring, summer and holiday weekends.
- Make sure you have your ticket ready to show on board , mobile app tickets and printed tickets are both accepted.
- Arrive at the station at least 15 minutes early to find your platform and board smoothly.
By Car: Driving the Distance from Rome to Florence
Driving between Florence and Rome is possible and gives you the most flexibility to stop and explore the countryside, hill towns, or small villages along the way. The journey follows the A1 autostrada, the main toll highway connecting the north and south of Italy. The straight-line driving distance is around 170 miles (275 km), and most drivers make the trip in around 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic, speed, and stops.
You’ll find turnoffs for interesting cities like Orvieto, Arezzo, and Chiusi, which can be worth a stop to stretch your legs or enjoy a meal in a quieter setting than either of the big hubs.
However, keep in mind:
- Tolls apply , be prepared for toll booths and bring cash or a card.
- Gasoline is more expensive than in many other countries, so factor that into your budget.
- Parking in either Florence or Rome’s city center can be confusing and very expensive, with limited access due to ZTL (zona traffico limitato) zones.
Pro tip: If your hotel or parking garage doesn’t clearly state that they handle the ZTL paperwork for you, assume they do NOT. Entering a ZTL without permission leads to heavy fines.
If you’re bringing your own older car, be sure to double-check Florence’s “Scudo Verde” rules, which may restrict entry for cars with high emissions into much of the urban area.
Italians drive quickly on the autostrada, and police may fine for exceeding limits or improper passing. Always have your passport, license, registration, and rental agreement with you while driving.
Where to Park in Florence or Rome
Both cities have large parking lots and garages on the edges of the center, designed so you can leave your car and walk or use public transport into the historic core. In Florence, main structured car parks are managed by FiPark (Official FiPark site), and in Rome, check the Parcheggi di Scambio (Official site) for lots near metro lines.
Street parking rules change often. Always check the vertical sign above the spot, not just the line color, to avoid tickets and tow.
Traveling by Bus from Rome to Florence
Buses are the cheapest (but slowest) way to connect Florence and Rome. They typically take three and a half to four hours, departing from main city bus terminals. Most services are direct, with a toilet and Wi-Fi, but not much space for walking around.
Because Italy’s high-speed trains are so fast and centered in both cities, most travelers opt for the train instead of the bus, but if your hotel is closer to a bus stop, or if you’re traveling on a small budget, buses do offer reliable and frequent connections all year. Always check your bus company’s official website for current schedules and to book tickets online.
- For FlixBus bookings, visit their official site.
Flying from Rome to Florence
While Florence and Rome have both major airports, flying between the two cities doesn’t save much time for most travelers. The actual flight takes under an hour, but when you add at least one hour for airport check-in, security, boarding, and the need to travel to and from both airports’ locations outside the city centers, total travel times can reach over three hours.
Flying only makes sense if you are connecting directly from Rome Fiumicino to an international flight, or if you live near one airport and need to reach the other directly. For most city-to-city travelers, the train is faster, cheaper, and much easier.
- For official airport information or to book flights, consult Rome Fiumicino Airport or Florence Airport.
Best Travel Option: Train, Car, or Bus?
With all these choices, what’s the best way to travel between Florence and Rome? It depends on your priorities:
| Method | Fastest | Most Comfortable | Cheapest | Scenic/Stops |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High-Speed Train | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ (window views!) | |
| Bus | ✓ | |||
| Car | ✓ (flexible route) | |||
| Plane |
For most visitors, the high-speed train remains the easiest balance of speed, price, and the experience of seeing the vibrant Italian landscape glide by your window. Families, larger groups, or those with lots of luggage also appreciate the space and facilities on board.
Tips for a Smooth Trip from Rome to Florence
- Always double-check your departure and arrival stations. Florence is “Firenze S. M. Novella” and Rome is “Roma Termini” for most high-speed trains.
- If you’re driving, watch for ZTL signs in either city and make sure your garage confirms ZTL access if you want to park inside restricted zones.
- Book tickets on the Trenitalia or Italo official sites for the best choice of times and fares for train travel.
- If traveling during busy periods, like weekends, holidays, or summer, book several weeks ahead for both speed and savings.
- To see sights along the way, consider picking one interesting town (Orvieto, Siena, or Cortona) to stop, spend a meal, or stay a night.
- For those using bus routes, be sure you know your bus stop location in both cities so you don’t miss your departure.
- For any method, always check the official site for your chosen mode (train, bus, parking) for schedule updates close to your travel date, as times and rules can change.
What You’ll See Along the Route
Italy’s “green heart” region lies between Florence and Rome, with rolling hills, sunflower fields, olive groves, and cypress rows lining the landscape. From the train, windows reveal a classic Tuscan and Umbrian countryside. Driving opens the possibility to visit towns like Orvieto, known for its striking cathedral on a cliff, or Chiusi, a small town with Etruscan roots. Be sure to have your camera close by, as sunny clear days offer postcard scenes almost the entire way between these two cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the train ride from Rome to Florence?
The quickest direct high-speed train takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Slower regional trains can take up to 4 hours.
Is Florence closer to Rome or Milan?
Florence is much closer to Rome than to Milan. Rome and Florence are about 160 miles (260 km) apart, while Milan and Florence are about 190 miles (300 km) apart.
Can you do Florence as a day trip from Rome?
Yes, it’s possible but recommended only if you use the high-speed train and focus on a few key sights. Most travelers enjoy at least one night in Florence to soak in the city at a more relaxed pace.
Is travel between Florence and Rome accessible for all?
Yes, both train stations are accessible with elevators, ramps, and assistance for those with mobility needs. Let your train company know in advance to request any extra help.
Whichever way you choose, the journey between Florence and Rome is surprisingly straightforward for travelers. The two cities are well connected, close enough for a quick ride or drive, and offer plenty of guidance for visiting at your own pace. The high-speed train steals the show for convenience, comfort, and a taste of modern Italy. Driving works best for those craving countryside stops and hidden gems, but requires confidence with Italy’s road rules and parking systems. Buses can be a bargain, but may add travel time. Flying is mainly for those with a connecting international flight.
Before you buy tickets or book a car, check the official sites for up-to-date times and prices. For more ideas once you arrive, see this recommended Florence walking guide to make the most of your Italy adventure. And wherever your journey takes you , buon viaggio!