EPA 2027 Congress Venue
Firenze Fiera
Fortezza da Basso
Viale Filippo Strozzi, 1
50129 Florence (Firenze), Italy
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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.
Travelling in Florence on a Budget
Delegates can reduce travel costs by staying within walking distance of the venue, using public transport or choosing shared mobility services where appropriate. We recommend comparing the full cost of each option (including ticket prices, booking fees and the distance between your accommodation and the Congress venue).
Budget Checklist
Before confirming your EPA 2027 arrangements we recommend:
- Compare the full accommodation price, including taxes
- Calculate transport costs for the complete stay
- Check whether your hotel is within walking distance of the venue
- Confirm cancellation and refund conditions
- Use official transport and accommodation providers
- Recheck fares, routes and tax information shortly before departure
Public Transport in Florence
Florence’s public transport network includes tram and bus services operated by Autolinee Toscane. A standard urban ticket can be used on both buses and trams, making public transport a cost-effective option for delegates staying outside the immediate venue area.
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 are available directly on board using a credit card, smartphone, or wearable device.
By Tram:
Florence has two main tram lines:
- T1 Leonardo, which serves the Firenze Santa Maria Novella and Fortezza da Basso area
- T2 Vespucci, which connects Florence Airport with the city centre
Delegates can use the tram to reach Firenze Santa Maria Novella or the Fortezza da Basso area and continue to the venue on foot.
By Bus:
Florence’s buses are operated by Autolinee Toscane and serve areas that are not directly connected by tram.
Delegates should check their route through the Autolinee Toscane app and ensure that their ticket is validated or activated when boarding.
At the time of publication, Florence urban transport fares include:
| Ticket | Current cost |
|---|---|
| 90-minute urban ticket | €2.00 |
| Ten-journey urban carnet | €18.20 |
| Ticket purchased from the driver | €3.00 |
The 90-minute ticket covers Florence’s urban bus and tram services. Paper tickets must be validated and digital tickets must be activated when the journey begins.
Please note: Some of the content was generated with AI-tools. Fares may change before EPA 2027. Delegates should confirm current prices before travelling.
By Train:
Firenze Santa Maria Novella is Florence’s main railway station and provides regional and high-speed connections to cities including Rome, Milan and Venice.
The station is within walking distance of Fortezza da Basso, making train travel a convenient and cost-effective option for delegates arriving from other parts of Italy.
Delegates staying near the station may also be able to walk to the Congress venue each day, reducing the need for additional transport costs.
By Plane:
Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR) is the main international airport serving Florence, located just 5 km from the city centre. The T2 Vespucci tram connects Florence Airport with the city centre and the Fortezza area. Delegates travelling to the Congress venue can alight at the Fortezza stop and continue to the appropriate venue entrance on foot. The journey from the airport to central Florence takes approximately 20 minutes.
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. Sharing a taxi with other delegates may reduce the cost per person, particularly for airport or early-morning journeys.
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 options provide a flexible way to navigate the historic centre.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cheapest Way to Reach Fortezza da Basso?
For those staying near Firenze Santa Maria Novella station or in central Florence, walking is usually the lowest-cost option. Delegates staying farther away can use Florence’s urban tram or bus network.
Can I Walk from Firenze Santa Maria Novella Station to Fortezza da Basso?
Yes. Fortezza da Basso is within walking distance of Firenze Santa Maria Novella station. The exact walking time will depend on the venue entrance being used and your mobility requirements.
How Much Does Public Transport Cost in Florence?
At the time of publication, a 90-minute urban ticket costs €2.00 and can be used on Florence’s urban buses and trams. A ten-journey carnet costs €18.20. Prices may change before April 2027.
Which Areas are Convenient for Affordable Accommodation Near the Congress Centre?
Accommodation near Fortezza da Basso, Firenze Santa Maria Novella station or the T1 tram route can provide convenient access to the Congress. Delegates should compare the total room cost with the cost and time required for daily transport.
Are there Additional Charges when Booking a Hotel in Florence?
An accommodation tax / city tax may be payable in addition to the room rate. The amount varies by property type and is generally collected by the accommodation provider. Delegates should also check whether breakfast, VAT and booking fees are included in the displayed price.
Transport fares, routes, service availability, provider details, and local regulations may change before April 2027. Delegates should confirm the latest information with the relevant official provider before travelling.