Many travellers arriving in Italy start their trip in Rome but continue directly to Florence.

The good news is that travelling from Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to Florence by train is straightforward once you understand the connection.

There is no direct high-speed train from the airport to Florence. The usual route is:

Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
→ Roma Termini
→ Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN)

This combination connects Italy’s largest airport with one of its most popular train routes.

For most travellers, the journey takes around 2.5–3 hours in total, depending on the airport transfer and train connection.

Quick Overview: Rome Airport to Florence Train

What is the best way to get from Rome Airport to Florence?

For most visitors, the easiest option is taking the train via Roma Termini.

The journey has two parts:

Step 1: Fiumicino Airport to Roma Termini

The first step is reaching Rome’s main railway station.

The most convenient option is usually the Leonardo Express, which connects:

Fiumicino Airport → Roma Termini

The service is:

• direct;
• designed for airport travellers;
• suitable for luggage;
• easy to connect with high-speed trains.

You can also learn more in our guide:

Rome Fiumicino Airport to Roma Termini by Train

Step 2: Roma Termini to Florence

From Roma Termini, take a high-speed train to:

Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN)

The main operators on this route are:

• Trenitalia Frecciarossa;
• Italo.

The high-speed journey is usually around 1.5 hours.

For a detailed route guide:

Rome to Florence by Train: Complete Travel Guide

How long does it take from Rome Airport to Florence by train?

The total journey usually takes around:

2.5–3 hours

However, the exact time depends on:

• your landing time;
• passport control and luggage collection;
• waiting time for the airport train;
• connection time at Roma Termini;
• your chosen high-speed train.

A common mistake is booking the Florence train too soon after landing.

Even if the train schedule looks possible, unexpected delays can make the connection stressful.

A safer approach is to leave enough time between arriving at Fiumicino Airport and departing Roma Termini.

Do you need to buy separate tickets?

Usually, yes.

The journey includes two different train services:

1. Airport transfer:
   • Fiumicino Airport → Roma Termini
2. High-speed train:
   • Roma Termini → Florence SMN

These services have different operators and ticket systems.

When booking, make sure both tickets match your travel plan.

Check:

• departure time;
• station name;
• operator;
• ticket conditions.

For general booking advice:

How to Book Train Tickets in Europe

How much does it cost to travel from Rome Airport to Florence?

The total cost depends on:

• airport transfer ticket;
• high-speed train fare;
• booking time;
• flexibility of the ticket.

High-speed train prices can vary significantly.

Cheaper fares are often available when booking earlier, especially for fixed travel dates.

For more information:

Cheap Train Tickets in Europe

Should you book Rome Airport to Florence train tickets in advance?

For this route, booking ahead is usually a good idea.

The reason is not the airport connection itself. The Leonardo Express is frequent.

The main factor is the Roma Termini → Florence high-speed train.

Earlier booking can help you get:

• lower fares;
• better departure times;
• more seat choices;
• easier connections.

This matters especially during:

• summer holidays;
• weekends;
• Easter;
• Christmas periods.

More details:

How Far in Advance to Book Train Tickets in Europe

How much transfer time do you need at Roma Termini?

Roma Termini is a large station, and first-time visitors often underestimate the transfer time.

Allow enough time to:

• arrive from the airport train;
• find the correct platform;
• check departure information;
• walk through the station with luggage.

A very short connection may look efficient, but it leaves little room for delays.

If you have never used Roma Termini before, our guide can help:

Roma Termini Train Station Guide

Should you take a taxi from Rome Airport to Florence?

A taxi from Fiumicino Airport directly to Florence is possible, but it is rarely the most practical option.

Reasons:

• much higher cost;
• longer road journey;
• possible traffic delays.

For most travellers, the train offers:

• predictable travel time;
• easier luggage handling;
• direct access to Florence city centre.

A private transfer may make sense for:

• large groups;
• special mobility needs;
• travellers with very heavy luggage.

Where do you arrive in Florence?

The train arrives at:

Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN)

This is Florence’s main railway station.

The station is:

• close to the historic centre;
• within walking distance of many hotels;
• connected with local transport.

From here you can continue exploring Florence or connect to other Italian destinations.

Useful station information:

Firenze Santa Maria Novella Train Station Guide

Can you visit Florence directly after landing in Rome?

Yes, many travellers do exactly this.

A common Italy itinerary is:

Rome Airport
→ Florence
→ Venice
→ Milan

Travelling directly to Florence after landing can save time if Rome is not your first destination.

However, consider:

• your arrival time;
• jet lag;
• luggage;
• connection confidence.

If your flight arrives late in the day, staying overnight in Rome may be easier.

Common mistakes when travelling from Rome Airport to Florence

Booking a Florence train too close to your arrival time

Airport arrival time is unpredictable.

Leave enough buffer for delays.

Confusing Roma Termini with other Rome stations

Rome has several railway stations. Your connection should usually use:

Roma Termini

Forgetting Florence station name

The main station is:

Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN)

Not every Florence-area station is equally convenient.

Buying only the airport ticket

Remember that the airport transfer and Florence journey are separate parts of the trip.

FAQ

Is there a direct train from Rome Airport to Florence?

No. Travellers usually take the airport train to Roma Termini and then a high-speed train to Florence.

How long is the train from Rome Airport to Florence?

The complete journey usually takes around 2.5–3 hours depending on connections.

What is the easiest way to travel from Fiumicino Airport to Florence?

The easiest option for most travellers is Leonardo Express to Roma Termini, followed by a high-speed train to Florence.

Which Florence train station should I use?

Most visitors should choose Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), the main station in central Florence.

Can I buy Rome Airport to Florence train tickets online?

Yes. You can purchase tickets online and manage the journey digitally.

Should I book Rome to Florence trains early?

For high-speed trains, earlier booking often provides better fares and more departure options.

Continue Your Italy Train Journey

Travelling from Rome Airport to Florence by train is one of the most convenient ways to start exploring Italy.

The key is understanding the connection:

Fiumicino Airport → Roma Termini → Firenze Santa Maria Novella

Once you know the route, the journey becomes simple and connects you directly with one of Italy’s most popular cities.

Plan your route, compare train options and manage your European rail journey with the eutrain app.