EPA 2027 Congress Venue
Firenze Fiera
Fortezza da Basso
Viale Filippo Strozzi, 1
50129 Florence (Firenze), Italy
By clicking on or interacting with the map links or any links to other websites found on this page, you acknowledge that you are landing on third-party services. The latter may use your data according to their privacy policy. MCI declines all responsibility.
Venue Information & Accessibility
Entrances and Elevators:
The Fortezza da Basso features three main barrier-free entrances: Porta Faenza, Porta Santa Maria Novella, and Porta Soccorso alla Campagna. The venue is fully accessible, with modern pavilions (such as the Spadolini and Cavaniglia Pavilions) equipped with elevators and ramps to ensure easy movement between different levels and exhibition areas.
Accessible Parking:
Dedicated parking is available at the “Fortezza Fiera” car park located in Piazzale Caduti nei Lager. The facility offers 11 designated spaces for individuals with disabilities. Additional accessible parking is available at the nearby Santa Maria Novella Station car park, which includes 17 reserved spaces.
Information Centre:
Assistance is available at the main reception and information points located near the primary entrances (Porta Faenza and Porta Santa Maria Novella). Staff are on hand during events to provide guidance, mobility support, and specific information regarding hall layouts for visitors with disabilities.
Toilets and First Aid:
Accessible toilets are located throughout the various pavilions and meeting rooms of the fortress. A fully equipped First Aid Room is available on-site during all events to provide medical assistance and address any health-related needs.
How to Get There
Public Transport in Town:
- Florence’s public transport is integrated and efficient, primarily consisting of the tramway and an extensive bus system managed by Autolinee Toscane (AT). The city features two main tram lines:
- T1 Leonardo – which traverses the city from north to south;
- T2 Vespucci – which connects the airport to the city centre.
For areas not served by the tram, a comprehensive bus network ensures easy movement throughout the urban area and to the outskirts.
To manage travel, delegates can download the At Bus App to purchase tickets or passes and plan their routes with real-time updates. Additionally, contactless payments is available directly on board using a credit card, smartphone, or wearable device.
By Train:
The primary railway gateway is the historic Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), situated in the heart of the city. Florence serves as a major hub for Italy’s high-speed rail network, offering frequent and direct connections to major destinations such as Rome, Milan, and Venice.
For those reaching the city by train, the central station is exceptionally well-connected to local transport. The T1 and T2 tram lines both stop at the station, and major event venues are typically accessible via a short tram ride or on foot, making the train a highly convenient option for delegates.
By Plane:
Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR) is the main international airport serving Florence, located just 5km from the city centre. The most efficient way to reach the heart of the city from the airport is via the T2 Vespucci tram line, which runs frequently and takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the central terminal at Piazza dell’Unità. Taxis and shuttle services are also readily available outside the arrivals hall for direct transfers to hotels and the city.
By Taxi:
Official taxis in Florence are white and can be identified by the “Taxi” sign on the roof and the identification number on the front doors. They can be taken from designated ranks located at major transport hubs and tourist landmarks, or requested via telephone and specialised mobile apps.
Delegates are encouraged to use the appTaxi or itTaxi apps to book rides, get price estimates, and pay securely within the app using a credit card or PayPal.
Walking, Cycling and E-Scooters:
Florence is a highly pedestrian-friendly city that encourages sustainable travel through an expanding network of cycle paths. Delegates can utilise the city’s bike-sharing system, RideMovi, which offers a fleet of traditional bikes, electric bikes, and electric scooters accessible via its app. These eco-friendly options provide a flexible way to navigate the historic center while reducing the environmental impact of travel.
Car & Scooter Sharing:
For those who prefer to drive themselves, Florence offers “free-floating” car and scooter sharing services that allow for point-to-point travel without the need for a taxi driver or a traditional rental office. Using apps like Enjoy or TiMove for cars, and Zig Zag or Bit Mobility for scooters, you can locate a nearby vehicle on the street, unlock it via your smartphone, and drive it yourself. These vehicles are permitted to enter the Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL) and can be parked in resident-reserved blue and white spaces at no extra cost, making them a flexible alternative for navigating restricted areas.
