Is Florence safe? What you should know

Florence is a city where everything feels like stepping into a living, breathing Renaissance painting! Everywhere you turn, there’s art: from Michelangelo’s David to the marvelous Duomo, it’s a feast for the eyes! But, it’s not all museums, art galleries, and history books! Florence has lively markets, delicious gelato, and cobblestone streets perfect for aimless wandering (just watch your step!). Not to forget the fact that the Italian word for ice cream, "gelato," actually originated here.

Now, let’s talk safety. Florence might not be a sprawling metropolis, but it’s still a busy hub with its fair share of quirks. We've got some great tips on how to interact with locals without committing an Italian faux pas, how to enjoy all the carbs, and even how to navigate its cobblestones and nature spots without face-planting. Think of this as your Renaissance guide to traveling like a pro.

We've got you covered from avoiding slippery streets after a Tuscan drizzle to figuring out if that bottle of water is still or sparkling (some drinking fountains have both)! So, lace up your comfiest shoes, grab a map (or your phone), and let’s dive into Florence with confidence and a smile!

Safety tips to keep in mind during your time in Florence

Are you wondering if Florence is a safe city? The capital city of Tuscany isn't any less safe than other cities where tourists gather. But we're here to give you some useful tips so you can feel as safe as possible while you visit Florence!

Getting from the airport to the city center

Imagine you just landed at Amerigo Vespucci International Airport, and what now? You could rent a car, but if you don't want to deal with traffic, Florence has some good public transport options! Just grab the T12 tram and you'll get to Alamanni Stazione (Central Station). From there, you can get to all the train stations around the city and get anywhere nice and quick!

Tips to stay safe when you first arrive in Florence

One of the most common scams in Florence? Believe it or not, it’s a street artists’ scam. If you walk too close to their paintings or drawings on the floor, they might start yelling and accusing you of stepping on their work. Of course, then they have the nerve to demand money from you. So, just stay away from the floor paintings when you're walking, and if they try to pull this stunt, don't fold and they'll give up.

Is tap water in Florence safe to drink?

Yes! Tap water in Italy meets EU health standards, so feel free to drink it! You can chug it at restaurants, homes, parks, or in your hotel room! Remember, if it tastes weird, it doesn't mean it's contaminated. It just has different mineral levels than you're used to!

Safe accommodation options in Florence

No one can get a good night's sleep if they don't feel safe! So here you’ll find where to stay in Florence and sleep the moon away!

• If you're visiting Florence, Santo Spirito is quieter and doesn't have as many busy areas as the city center. It's got a real local vibe, with traditional restaurants and artisan shops for baubles you can buy. Feel free to crash at the Hotel Horto Convento for a boutique hotel experience with rooms starting at €150.
• San Niccolò is right next to Michelangelo Plaza, so it's got a serene and easy-on-the-eyes vibe. Villa La Vedetta Hotel is a bit more upscale with spacious rooms and a pool. You'll have to cough up around €300 a night, though.
• Santa Croce is around some historic attractions and art galleries you can explore. Hotel Bernini Palace is a historic hotel that blends Renaissance elegance with modern comfort. Rooms start at €200 per night.

Pro tip: If you happen to have a layover before making your way to Pisa Airport (which often has much cheaper flights), why not dump your stuff with us? Enjoy a sunny day at one of the beaches near Pisa without worrying about where your laptop, briefcase, or extra gear are. Download our app, book a trusted local business location, and feel safe with our $10.000 protection plan!

Cultural callouts & things to keep an eye out for

Want some cultural callouts so you know what to expect from Italians? Check these out:

• Italians aren't too keen on speaking English, especially the older generations. They take pride in their culture! Those who work in tourism speak English, but if you want to win over the locals, show them that you know a few common phrases!
• Here are some of them: Ciao (Hi/Bye); Buongiorno (a formal Hello); Grazie/Prego (Thank you/You're welcome); Quanto costa? (How much does this cost?); Dove si trova...? (Where is...?).
• There are marked smoking areas in restaurants, and you should generally use utensils when eating, unless you’re having pizza.
• You can rock your rainbow colors around town with pride! 
• Remember to dress modestly before going into a church.

Keeping safe when navigating the city

Not a pro at getting around town? That's why we're here! Check out some safety tips for navigating the city:

• If want to catch a cab, make sure they have a taxi sign! Unmarked cabs might upcharge you like it's nobody's business. So, don't accept rides that are offered to you, call a cab instead. Buses are the most common public transport, and they're safe at night.
• Are you renting a car? Watch out for ZTL Zones since you can't enter them without a permit. If you want to bike instead, you’ll find some beautiful paths down the Arno River. Cobblestones can be slippery when wet, so be careful if you don't want to accidentally do a breakdance move.
• Like any historic city, Florence isn't very wheelchair accessible. A lot of narrow cobblestone streets can make it challenging to get around. Public transport has done a good job adapting, with all the ramps and accessibility!

Nature and Florence: Safety tips to keep in mind

Want to explore some nature but also stay safe? Here are some pointers you can follow:

• There aren't any beaches in Florence, but you can head down to the coast and take a dip in some beaches near Pisa! Marina di Pisa and Viareggio have some great options and you can reach them in about an hour and a half with the Regional train. For Marina di Pisa you'll have to get out at Pisa Centrale and catch the number 10 bus. A lot of beaches have barriers so you can practice your backstroke without taking a wave to the face!
• Want a refreshing summer walk? The best hikes in Florence are on Fiesole with jaw-dropping views of the city and countryside. Chianti Hills is perfect if you want something a bit longer, with views of vineyards!
• The summer heat can get intense! At 40C, anyone is at risk, always carry water around with you, pack a lot of SPF, and wear a hat to avoid heatstroke!

Last tips in the case of an emergency

Need the numbers of emergency services just in case? Some insurance tips? Keep reading and learn more:

• It might seem like a hassle to get travel insurance, but it can save your bank account if something goes wrong! Plus, EU citizens can get the EHIC card and rest easy!
• If you're wondering what to eat in Florence, the street food scene is really good! Gelato and lampredotto (a traditional tripe sandwich) are must-haves. If you've got some allergies, ask the vendors and they’ll be happy to give you the info you need.
• The emergency numbers are: 112 (general number for police, medical, and fire emergencies) and 118 for direct medical help.

So, is Florence safe?

Absolutely! All you need to do is use your common sense when you explore and stick to crowded areas. This means not going into empty streets or dark alleyways. And if you want to quickly dump your stuff before jumping into cool water at a beach, remember Bounce! When sand doesn't agree with your baggage, leave it behind!