Florence is one of the most popular cities in northern Italy for tourists. With approximately 380,000 residents, the small city can sometimes feel very crowded. Because Florence is so old and densely-packed with stores and famous buildings, getting around the city can sometimes be quite complicated.
In the city center, there are very few cars allowed. Only shop owners who get a special permit, delivery trucks, taxis and the police can take their cars into the restricted areas. For the average Florentine, the most common way to get around is by walking. The sidewalks are very narrow, and the streets are not paved. They are covered by rather large, flat stones.
Besides walking, many people also bike around the city. Riding a bike in the city can be very dangerous because tourists are not always aware of themselves when they stop in the middle of the street to look up and take photos of the beautiful buildings. Further outside of the city center, the public bus and regional train are popular forms of transportation. A ticket for the bus or train is only €1.50! Taxis are far less likely to be used as a short ride can cost €25.
