I was checking the trenitalia website for schedules and trains leave from Florence Rifredi, and SM Novella (I think I have that right!. To get back to Livorno, which station should we use- and also in Florence, which one should we get off at?

Great question because this is a very common issue. Most large European cities have multiple train stations, and various stations may only have trains to limited destinations. The main train station in Florence, and the one where you get your train to Livorno, is called "Santa Maria Novella" or SM Novella. This is located in the center of the city where you can walk to most of the main tourist spots. The Rifredi Station is quite a distance Northwest of the city and is primarily used for trains heading North to places like Milano and Bologna. There is actually a third station located Northeast of the city (Campo di Marti) which is often used for trains to Rome. Hope this helps.

Hank

So likewise, from Livorno, I take it we get on the train that goes to SM Novella and not the one that gets to Rifredi...or do they run on the same route, one station coming along before the other? Thanks Hank, in advance!

Rifredi station is just before SM Novella. They are on the same route. The stations are very well indicated and the train in Italy is easy to use.

Good luck.

In both directions, the train terminates at the station that you want to get off at making it quite easy to make sure that you are where you want to be. The Duomo is an easy 10-minute walk from the station in Florence (look for the cathedral spire and then walk down the pedestrian street to its left) From the Duomo you are in the center of it all.

Have a great day in Florence!

Tom