One of the major advantages of living and studying in Florence is the ease of navigating the city. Florence offers many of the cultural advantages of a much larger city without (most of) the hassles involved in moving from point A to point B. While it is easy to traverse the city’s historic center in a half hour or less on foot, renting a bike can cut travel time in half. Biking is also a great way to explore the nooks and side streets in and around the city—and beyond. Whether the plan is to pack a picnic lunch and pedal outside the city or zoom along the Arno to get to class, long-term bike rental services offer a fun and convenient option for getting around the city.
Long-term bike rentals are available through companies like Tuscany Cycle, a bike shop and tour operator (theflr.net/tuscanycycle). With this company, the initial month’s rental is 80 euro, which includes a brand-new bicycle, basket, helmet, padlock and service whenever necessary. For each of the following months, renters pay 30 euro. An additional 50 euro deposit in case of theft is refundable upon return of the bicycle. For additional rental services, see box.
The savvy cyclist
Get an insider’s view on biking Florence at theflr.net/biking and some street smarts at theflr.net/keepyourbikesafe. Tips for planning excursions and more at theflr.net/bikingtuscany.
