Traveling from Florence to Milan offers several efficient options, with the train being the most popular and convenient method. Here’s a detailed overview of the best ways to make this journey:
Train Travel
Fastest Option
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours.
Frequency: There are about 44 trains daily, including direct services.
Departure Stations: The main station in Florence is Santa Maria Novella (SMN).
Arrival Stations: Trains arrive at either Milano Centrale or Milano Rogoredo.
Train Companies: The primary operators are Italo and Trenitalia, both offering high-speed services.
Cost: Prices typically range from €17 to €55, depending on how far in advance you book and the class of service selected.
Booking in advance is advisable to secure the best fares, especially during peak travel seasons. High-speed trains provide comfortable seating and amenities, making for a pleasant journey through the Italian countryside.
Bus Travel
Budget-Friendly Option
Duration: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours.
Departure Locations: Buses depart from various stations, including the main bus terminal near Santa Maria Novella.
Arrival Locations: Buses typically arrive at either Milan’s Lampugnano or Rogoredo bus stations.
Bus Companies: Major operators include Flixbus, Itabus, and Marino Autolinee.
Cost: Bus tickets can be as low as €5, making it the cheapest option.
While buses are slower than trains, they can be a good choice for budget travelers or those looking for more flexible schedules.
Ridesharing
Services like BlaBlaCar offer ridesharing options between Florence and Milan. This can be a cost-effective and social way to travel, though availability may vary.
Flights
Flying is generally not practical for this route due to the short distance (about 154 miles or 249 km) and the lack of direct flights. The time spent traveling to and from airports often makes this option less efficient than taking a train or bus.
Conclusion
The best way to reach Milan from Florence is by train, given its speed and convenience. However, if you’re looking for a more economical option, consider taking a bus. Both methods provide easy access between these two iconic Italian cities, allowing you to enjoy your travels with minimal hassle.