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The 22 Best Day Trips from Florence (+ How to Get There!)

Florence is a beautiful city known as the “Cradle of the Renaissance,” and it features not only stunning landmarks, but some of the best museums in Italy.

This rich cultural heritage is an absolute must-see for anyone, but especially for aficionados of art history!

However, if you plan on spending a considerable length of time in the city, or if you’ve already visited before and you’re just visiting Florence for a day or two on a return trip, you may find yourself getting curious about exploring more of its surroundings.

Great news: once you leave the city limits, you’ll find that there’s so much to discover!

Tuscany is one of Italy’s most beautiful and rich regions, and you’ll have your choice between exploring arts, architecture, and natural landscapes. 

From big cities to charming little villages, you can plan day trips from Florence to suit any taste!

Depending on how much time you’re willing to spend on a Florence day trip — something nearby or if you’re willing to travel a few hours — the possibilities are wide-ranging, from Tuscan hill towns and beyond!

The Best Day Trips from Florence

90 minutes south, Siena ‘s beauty is said to rival even the famous Tuscan capital.

Best known for its medieval center and its central square, Piazza del Campo , Siena is gorgeous larger city in Tuscany that still retains a bit of a small-town feel.

While you could do Siena as a day trip from Florence, it’s even better on its own as a multi-day trip (see this two-day itinerary , for example).

Every summer, it gets crowded as people from all over Italy and abroad descend on the city for the Palio di Siena , the world-famous horse race.

But beyond that, Siena has many gorgeous landmarks worth working into your day trip itinerary.

Don’t miss the Duomo di Siena , the town’s cathedral famous for its signature black and white marble stripes.

You should also reserve time to see the Palazzo Pubblico with the iconic Torre del Mangia. Climb to the top of the tower for the most impressive views of the city!

While you’re in town, Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico is another important landmark worth checking out.

How to Get to Siena from Florence

There are direct trains about once an hour via the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station, which take about an hour and a half. There are also trains with a transfer that add on a little more time.

The 131/131R Autolinee Toscane bus goes from Florence to Siena about once an hour, taking about an hour and 15 minutes. There’s also a once-daily Flixbus that makes the trip in about an hour.

If you go by rental car, it’s about a one-hour drive, depending on if there’s traffic.

San Gimignano

An easy day trip just two hours away by bus, San Gimignano is one of most beautiful hilltop towns in Tuscany (and indeed, all of Italy).

Collect UNESCO sites? You can add one to your list by visiting San Gimignano, as the medieval town center became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990.

The best thing to do in San Gimignano is to simply wander around the lovely medieval town and discover beautiful views of its beautiful architecture and rich history.

Stop by the triangular-shaped Piazza della Cisterna , surrounded by towers and medieval buildings, and pay a visit to Duomo Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta .

If you’re up for a uniquely dark attraction, consider stopping in for a visit to the Museum of Torture . The subject matter might be a bit grim, but the museum is a fascinating look into the dark side of history!

For beautiful views of the town, climb one of the many towers. Torre Grossa may be the largest, but Torre Rognosa and Torre Chigi also offer amazing views.

San Gimignano is even nicknamed the “Medieval Manhattan” due to its many towers, so this skyline is absolutely not to be missed!

How to Get from Florence to San Gimignano

You can take the hourly 131 bus, getting off in Poggibonsi — this takes about 50 minutes. Then, transfer to the 130 bus, which takes another 25 minutes or so to reach San Gimignano. With wait time, it’s about 2 hours by bus.

You can do a similar route partly by train, taking the train to Poggibonsi and then taking the 130 bus to San Gimignano. This takes a little longer since the train is not as direct.

If you have a rental car, it’s only about an hour’s drive from Florence.

Just outside Florence, the city of Prato is a quick 20-minute train ride from Santa Maria Novella station.

If you’re short on time but want to see something other than Florence, you can visit Prato in just a half-day.

Prato is renowned for its textile district, where brands from all over the world have their factories.

You can learn all about the history of textiles in the city at the Prato Textile Museum , one of the prime attractions the city has to offer.

Be sure to visit the Romanesque St. Stephen’s Cathedral , the medieval castle Castello dell’Imperatore , and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo with its gorgeous cloisters. 

Another beautiful sight is the Villa Medici at Poggio a Caiano , located just outside Prato, featuring wonderful gardens. It’s the perfect little oasis in the middle of your trip!

How to Get from Florence to Prato

There are trains from Firenze S.M.N. station to Prato 2-3 times per hour, taking anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes depending on the train.

There are also buses every 30 minutes to an hour, but those take about 40 minute so they don’t save you any time.

If you have a rental car, you could drive it in 20 minutes, but honestly, the train is faster and less stress. It’s likely cheaper, too, once you factor in parking.

I probably don’t even have to say it, do I?

The number one reason you’d visit Pisa is to see — what else? — the Leaning Tower of Pisa .

However, what you may not know is that the iconic tower is actually part of a complex of landmarks!

The complex encompasses the buildings of Piazza dei Miracoli (Plaza of Miracles) includes the Pisa Cathedral, the Pisa Baptistery of St. John , and the Monumental Cemetery .

You can easily spend a whole afternoon sightseeing around Piazza dei Miracoli and visiting all the landmarks.

Be sure to save some time though, because you’ll also want to explore the lovely Borgo Stretto neighborhood with its gorgeous medieval houses and beautiful arcades.

While you can do Pisa as a day trip easily, it benefits from more time, like this 2 days in Pisa itinerary lays out.

How to Get from Florence to Pisa

Trains depart regularly from Santa Maria Novella train station, and the trip from Florence can take as little as 50 minutes for the most direct route!

Buses are less convenient here, so the train is the best option.

If you want to see Pisa as well as other sights, you can also book the Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano tour mentioned above.

If you’ve ever seen the Twilight Saga, you might be familiar with the medieval town of Volterra .

If you didn’t, go ahead and skip the movie and just take a day trip to Volterra from Florence.

This beautiful little Tuscan town is just over two hours from Florence by public transit

Volterra is a delightful small town to walk around: poke around down narrow alleys, meander through lively squares, and delight in the views of the historic.

Spend some time in Piazza dei Priori , then see it from above! The views from the tower of Palazzo dei Priori offer one of the best views of Volterra.

You should also dedicate some time to pay a visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta .

If you’re a fan of museums, stop in at the Etruscan Museum Mario Guarnacci to learn about the town’s long history.

Volterra has a rich Etruscan heritage (and Roman and Medieval as well), with its earliest settlement nearly three millennia back, all the way back in 8th century BCE!

How to Get from Florence to Volterra

There are no direct buses or trains between Florence and Volterra, so the easiest thing to do is take the train to Pontedera and then the 500 Autolinee Toscane bus to Volterra.

This can be a bit hectic, so a guided tour may be the better bet, like this one that combines Volterra, San Gimignano, and some Chianti wine tasting to sweeten the deal.

If you enjoy exploring small Tuscan towns, then Certaldo absolutely has to be on your list of day trip destinations from your stay in Florence.

The picturesque town is less than an hour from Florence and features a lovely hilltop medieval town reachable via cable car.

The top landmark in Certaldo is Palazzo Pretorio , a 12th-century palace that houses beautiful frescoes and historical artifacts, and features a tower with spectacular panoramic views.

Another must-see is Boccaccio’s House , which belonged to the famous Italian writer Giovanni Boccaccio, who was born and died in Certaldo.

As a bonus, the house also offers gorgeous views of the surrounding town!

How to Get from Florence to Certaldo

There are direct trains about once an hour from Florence, taking a little under an hour, and there are even more options if you take the train with a transfer in Empoli (taking about 1 hour, 20 minutes).

There are no direct buses, so taking the train or driving in a rental car is your best bet.

By car, it’s about 50 minutes, so there’s no benefit to driving over taking the train if Certaldo is the only place you’re visiting.

Cinque Terre

One of Italy’s most beloved sights, the Cinque Terre , is truly worthy of at least one or two full days.

However, if your trip to Italy has very limited time, it may be worth visiting Cinque Terre from Florence on a day trip.

However, you’ll want to take a tour to make every moment count and not get tripped up on the details and working out all the train connections.

This Florence Cinque Terre Day Trip is a full-day tour that handles all the logistics getting you between Florence and Cinque Terre National Park .

This tour includes time in all five colorful seaside villages ( Manarola , Corniglia , Vernazza , Riomaggiore , and Monterosso ).

If selected, you can also include a hike from Corniglia to Vernazza. Don’t worry if you prefer a lower-impact outing, you can also get to Vernazza by train!

In the peak season, you’ll also be able to take a boat cruise along the Cinque Terre coastline — as long as the weather behaves.

The tour also includes an optional seafood lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try traditional Ligurian dishes.

How to Get from Florence to Cinque Terre

While it’s possible to get from Florence to Cinque Terre via public transportation, I don’t recommend it for a day trip.

There are simply too many transfers involved when it comes to visiting Cinque Terre, and it’s a lot to work out on your own.

A guided tour is the best and easiest way to do Cinque Terre as a day trip.

Bologna is very close to Florence, which means it’s perfect for a day trip!

Bologna is primarily a student city, as it is the home of the world’s oldest university, in continuous operation since 1088.

Additionally, Bologna is a great place to eat delicious food . A must-try is the classic green lasagna, but the tagliatelle al ragù is also delicious.

If you’re just in the mood for a quick snack, try a sandwich with mortadella, the favorite local cold cut!

In the city center, wander around Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno , climb one of the towers to enjoy great views, and visit the Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro .

One particularly cool spot that recently became popular is La Piccola Venezia (Little Venice), a small canal you can view from a window on Via Piella .

How to Get from Florence to Bologna

For the fastest train ride, you can spend a bit more for the Frecciarossa high speed train, which takes only 40 minutes.

Alternately, you can save some money and opt for the cheaper regional train that takes a little under two hours.

Chianti Region

For an authentic experience in the Tuscan countryside, wine lovers should head to the Chianti Region .

Chianti, alongside Prosecco and Barolo, is one of the biggest names in Italian wine!

While you can opt to rent a car and explore Tuscany on your own, I don’t recommend it if you plan on wine tasting.

So you don’t have to worry about designated drivers, you can book a guided tour like this Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting .

A Tuscany wine tour offers a bit of everything in a single jam-packed day trip: not only will you be exploring the gorgeous Tuscan countryside, but you’ll also be visiting local wineries, and of course, sampling local wines like Chianti Classico!

Organized tours usually run between 5 and 8 hours exploring the Chianti wine region, and typically include everything from transportation to Chianti wine tasting and expert guides.

How to Get from Florence to Chianti

Since wineries are dispersed from the main cities in Tuscany, it’s typically best to get around Chianti by car.

However, with alcohol involved, driving in a rental car is out unless you have a designated driver.

Instead, I suggest taking a guided tour so that everyone can enjoy.

Lucca is one of the most spectacular cities in Tuscany and is easy to get to from Florence for a great day trip.

Check out the beautiful Piazza dell’Anfiteatro , climb to the top of Torre delle Ore for stunning views, and visit the beautiful St. Martin Cathedral .

If panoramic views are your thing, you can check out another gorgeous view from Guinigi Tower , which features a wonderful rooftop garden where the only thing more beautiful than the plants is the stunning setting.

Lucca also has many museums, like the Puccini Museum housed in the birthplace of the Italian composer, the stunning Museum of Villa Mansi , and the gorgeous Palazzo Pfanner with its wonderful gardens.

How to Get from Florence to Lucca

To reach Lucca from Florence, you can enjoy another train ride through the beautiful Italian countryside and its rolling hills – this one takes just a little over an hour.

There are direct trains roughly twice an hour so you’ll be sure to catch a train fairly quickly when you arrive at the train station.

Since trains are so easy, it’s not worth bothering with buses or rental cars.

Many would argue that Rome should not be a day trip but rather an itinerary of its own … and I would agree, in an ideal world!

But I would also say that if a day trip is your only chance to see Rome, you absolutely should do it, and it’s very easily achieved from Florence.

Just an hour and a half away by high-speed train, Rome and its many millennia of history beckon.

Do I even need to go into all the reasons you should visit Rome? Of course, there’s the Colosseum , the Vatican Museums (and Vatican City, technically its own country!), and the Pantheon .

But there’s also the beautiful squares like Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori , the charming little neighborhoods like Trastevere where you’ll find delicious Roman trattorias serving up some of the best pastas of your life, and scenic parks like Villa Borghese .

You could honestly just walk around Rome without an agenda and call it a successful day trip, that’s how spectacular this city is.

But if you want a little guidance, here’s a plan for seeing Rome in a day .

How to Get from Florence to Rome

The Frecciarossa fast train covers the distance between Rome and Florence in an impressive hour and a half.

This same route takes over 3 hours by car, so that’s quite impressive — so there’s no reason why you’d do anything but take the fast train if you only have a day.

A hidden gem that many visitors skip when traveling to Tuscany, Pistoia was Italy’s Capital of Culture in 2017, and for good reason.

Less than an hour from Florence, you can explore this historic city’s charm easily in a single day.

Admire the medieval Cathedral of San Zen o, explore the town center, and take a mid-day break Italian-style for a delicious coffee or aperitivo in the lovely Piazza della Sala .

If you’re up for visiting a museum, check out the fascinating Museo dello Spedale del Ceppo , dedicated to the history of the medical profession.

While in Pistoia, don’t miss out on delicious local food!

The traditional dish of the city is the “carcerato”, a soup with bread, beef entrails, and cheese.

The name translates to “prisoner” because the dish was cooked for the prisoners… but we swear, it’s better than it sounds!

For a delicious vegetarian alternative, try the “farinata con le leghe” with black cabbage.

How to Get from Florence to Pistoia

Luckily, this is an easy one, with direct trains several times an hour.

The train ride is comfortable and takes only about 40 minutes from Firenze S.M.N., the main train station in town.

For another charming hilltop town in Tuscany, visit the lovely Cortona .

Not only is the medieval architecture of town itself picturesque, but the views over the countryside are spectacular.

Wander down cobblestone streets as you take in its key landmarks, like the Etruscan Academy Museum and the lovely Church of San Francesco .

Cortona also has many small art galleries where you can take home a piece of local artwork.

How to Get from Florence to Cortona

You can take a train to Camucia-Cortona which takes about an hour and a half. It’ll bring you about 3 kilometers outside of Cortona.

From there, you can take a bus (though the schedule is a bit sporadic, so check the timing) or a taxi (which wouldn’t be too expensive as it’s rather close).

You can also drive to Cortona, which takes about an hour and 20 minutes.

Southeast of Florence, the stunning hilly city of Arezzo is easily reached by train — and in less than an hour, too.

The hilltop Arezzo Cathedral is the main reason to visit, known for its beautiful frescoes and stained-glass windows.

Close to the cathedral, you can stroll around Arezzo Park to enjoy lovely views and visit the Medici Fortress .

Aside from the cathedral and fortress, there is much to discover in the historic center of Arezzo.

Visit the Basilica of San Francesco , have a coffee break at one of the cafés in Piazza Grande , and admire amazing works of art at Casa Vasari and the National Museum of Medieval and Modern Art .

Make sure to spend some time walking around the historic center.

You’ll come across many picturesque alleys, beautiful churches, art galleries, and historical landmarks!

How to Get from Florence to Arezzo

There are many trains to Arezzo each day departing from Firenze S.M.N.

The fastest trains can get there in around 30-40 minutes. There are also other direct trains that take about an hour and 20 minutes, but they’re not much cheaper, so I’d just opt for the faster train.

If you want to escape to the coast for a day, one of the easiest cities to reach from Florence is Livorno , under two hours away by train. 

This Tuscan port city is the place to go for delicious seafood, medieval landmarks, and an impressive modern seaport.

Near the seaport, visit the 11th-century medieval fort known as Fortezza Vecchia (Old Fort), check out the Monument of the Four Moors , enjoy the views from Terrazza Mascagni , and maybe visit the Livorno Aquarium if you’re a marine life geek.

Fortezza Nuova (New Fort) is located in an area of the city called Venezia Nuova (New Venice) because of its little islands and canals. 

Via Grande is the main commercial area lined with stores, cafés, and ice cream shops. And trust me, you’re going to want to make a trip to these ice cream shops.

How to Get from Florence to Livorno

There are several direct trains from Florence to Livorno each day, typically about one per hour.

It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes by train to Livorno Centrale.

Montepulciano

Wine geeks’ ears will perk up when they hear that Montepulciano can be visited on a day trip from Florence!

Home to the world-famous Vino Nobile de Montepulciano, you’ll find several wineries worth visiting in and around Montepulciano. There’s even a winery located at a 14th century palace, Palazzo Contucci !

Besides its wine, though, there are several other reasons to visit Montepulciano.

The main square, Piazza Grande , is a great place for a mid-day gelato. People-watch while surrounded by beautiful Renaissance-era buildings like the Palazzo Comunale and the Palazzo Contucci .

The 16th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is worth visiting for its beautiful Baroque features as well as its frescoes inside.

Don’t miss the Church of San Biagio just outside of Montepulciano, widely considered one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture in the entire country, particularly for its white marble facade.

There’s also the 14th century Fortress of Montepulciano – while there’s not too much left of the fortress itself these days, it does offer stunning views over the rolling hills of Tuscany!

How to Get from Florence to Montepulciano

Getting from Florence to Montepulciano with public transit is quite a lot of trouble for a day trip, requiring a transfer and taking over three hours.

Instead, I recommend going by car if you have a rental car (about an hour and a half) or going as part of a guided tour.

This day tour includes visits to both Pienza and Montepulciano (with a wine tasting to boot!)

Both these places are difficult to get to by public transportation, so a day trip that knocks out both in one go is a great option.

The best time to visit Viareggio is during the Carnival, between the end of January and the beginning of March.

The Carnival of Viareggio is probably second only to the one in Venice, famous for the impressively large floats parading on Viale Giosuè Carducci , also known as La Passeggiata .

If you don’t happen to be in Viareggio during the Carnival, you should still go for a walk along La Passeggiata, lined with Liberty-style buildings, hotels, and restaurants.

In summer, walk along the long sandy beach and enjoy a meal at one of the great fish restaurants with striking sea views. Make sure to also stop by Villa Puccini and Villa Paolina .

How to Get from Florence to Viareggio

You can get to Viareggio by train from Florence in under two hours. Some trains are direct, but others require a transfer in Pisa.

Exact journey time varies on the train, but it can be as quick as an hour and 20 minutes or as long as two hours.

Forte dei Marmi

While Florence is a spectacular city, there’s one thing it doesn’t have: the sea!

It can get roasting-hot in Florence in summer, so if you want to cool off for a day, head to Forte dei Marmi .

The popular resort town is roughly two hours away from Florence and is among the top beach destinations in the area.

Boasting an uninterrupted long sandy beach, great restaurants, beach clubs, and boutique shops, Forte dei Marmi is the place to go if you want to relax, enjoy good food, and maybe even do a little retail therapy (or window shopping).

Since it’s a beach town, the best time to visit Forte dei Marmi is summer, but you keep in mind the peak months are July and August and there will be crowds!

How to Get from Florence to Forte dei Marmi

It’s a bit tricky by public transportation but it’s still doable. You’ll have to take the train to Viareggio and then take the E1 bus, which takes another 30 minutes.

All in all, you’re looking at a journey of about two hours by train/bus, or if you’re renting a car and driving, it’s about an hour and a half.

Another day trip option from Florence is Pienza , a hilltop town with intriguing Renaissance history and gorgeous architecture.

The views as you look out from Pienza are incredible since they overlook the Val d’Orcia, one of the most scenic parts of Tuscany.

In addition to being just plain scenic everywhere you look, the town also has several landmarks worth visiting.

In particular, the Palazzo Piccolomini with its Renaissance architecture and beautiful courtyards, as well as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta are both worth your time.

Take a brief pause in Piazza Pio II for some people-watching and an espresso to keep you on your feet for more sightseeing.

Another sight worth adding to the list is Pieve di Corsignano , a Romanesque church just outside of Pienza, with frescoes dating back to the 14th century.

How to Get from Florence to Pienza

The most direct way to get to Pienza is by rental car or by guided tour, since buses and trains both require several connections.

As mentioned above, I recommend this tour of both Montepulciano and Pienza , which includes a wine tasting as well as time in both cities.

Perugia , Umbria’s scenic capital city, is only a couple of hours by train from Florence, so it’s a doable day trip.

Perugia is best known for its enclosed historic center surrounded by medieval walls, but it also has several intriguing historical landmarks and museums.

One of the highlights of Perugia’s historic center is Palazzo dei Priori , which houses the National Gallery , a museum featuring both important medieval and Renaissance art.

The palace is in the central square, Piazza IV Novembre , just opposite another must-see landmark, the Gothic Perugia Cathedral .

Around the square, you can explore the narrow alleys to discover more impressive historical buildings – this part of the city is full of hidden gems!

Perugia is also famous for chocolate making, as it is the birthplace of the Baci Perugina chocolates.

Every October, the city hosts a chocolate festival, Eurochocolate — if you have a sweet tooth, this is one event worth planning around!

Even if you can’t make it to the festival, you can still take a tour of the Casa del Cioccolato Perugina , just outside the city center.

How to Get from Florence to Perugia

There is a small handful of direct trains to Perugia each day, taking about 2 hours and 15 minutes to arrive.

There are more options if you also allow for a transfer.

Monteriggioni

About an hour by car from Florence, Monteriggioni is a small town near Siena worthy of a day trip!

It’s best known for its historic city walls, originally built by the then-Republic of Siena to defend in wars against its neighboring state of Florence. You can walk along the walls to take in the stunning views!

Another key thing not to miss is the Monteriggioni Castle , once a defensive structure (also against Florence), now a museum.

Speaking of museums, the Museum of Monteriggioni in the main square is worth visiting, as it lays out the history of the wars between the Florentine Republic and the Republic of Siena and what role Monteriggioni played in that. It also has a number of interesting medieval artifacts!

At any point during your day trip, you can rest your feet at Piazza Roma , a great place for a gelato and some people-watching.

Another sight worth seeing is the Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta , notable for its wooden statue of the Madonna that dates all the way back to the 14th century.

How to Get from Florence to Monteriggioni

The easiest way to get here is by driving, but if you prefer public transport, you can also take the 131 bus , which has three daily departures and takes about an hour and 15 minutes.

Do check the timing for the way back, though, so you don’t get stuck!

By car, it’s less than an hour, so it may be a convenient choice if you’re renting a car in Tuscany .

Another cute Tuscan hilltop town, Montalcino is best known for its Brunello di Montalcino wine… but the town itself is also worth a visit!

A few things worth seeing include the Fortezza di Montalcino , a historic fortress with great views over the surrounding Tuscan countryside and its wineries and olive groves.

There’s also the Piazza del Popolo , where you’ll find landmarks like the Palazzo dei Priori and the Church of Sant’Agostino in a cluster around the main square.

Another sight worth seeing is the 12th-century Abbey of Sant’Antimo just outside of town — it’s worth the detour!

How to Get from Florence to Montalcino

It’s a bit of a hassle to get between these two places in Tuscany for a day trip via public transit, but it can be done in about three hours.

To get to Montalcino, you’ll need to first take a bus or train to Buonconvento, and then take the 114 bus about 30 minutes further.

It’s easier to get here by rental car, which takes an hour and 45 minutes.

Alternately, you can take a wine tour that also includes the town of Montalcino.

The last place on our list, Assisi , is a bit far from Florence, but it’s one of the most iconic places in Italy, so if you want to check it out, you could do so on a day trip from Florence.

The train ride takes roughly two and a half hours from Firenze Campo Marte to Assisi station.

Don’t miss the spectacular Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi , which is also a UNESCO site.

While the church’s facade is stunning to behold, its interior is where it really shines: it’s home to important frescoes by Giotto and Lorenzetti.

Assisi is home to many other beautiful churches, all of which are well worth visiting.

The Church of Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Assisi is built inside a 1st-century temple, as you can see from its entrance.

The Chiesa Nuova di San Francesco Convertito is built on what is thought to be the site of St. Francis’s birthplace, while the Cathedral of San Rufino is where St. Francis was baptized.

How to Get from Florence to Assisi

There is a handful of direct trains (and more options for trains with transfers) every day from Florence to Assisi, taking about two hours and 40 minutes.

You can also drive, but it won’t save too much time: it’ll take about two hours and 10 minutes in that instance.

Roxana is a Romanian-born freelance travel writer who has lived in Italy for over 15 years. She has a Master’s in Journalism and a Bachelor’s in Film Studies, and she studied at Università degli Studi di Roma Tre. Besides her native Romania, Roxana has lived in Rome, Lisbon, and Berlin, and she has traveled through much of Europe in search of hidden gems, history, and culture.

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24 Best Day Trips from Florence, Italy (Hill Towns, Coastal Villages, More!)

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Considering some day trips from Florence, Italy? If you are planning a trip to the iconic capital of Tuscany, be sure to add in a few days to explore outside the city.

Florence , the Cradle of the Renaissance, is a stunning destination in its own right.

But its fortuitous location also makes it the perfect base from which to explore: not just the rest of Tuscany, but also visit-worthy destinations in other nearby regions of Italy as well.

Well-connected by road and rail to other parts of the country, Florence allows you to day trip to other towns and cities during the day, returning to enjoy its unique ambience (and fabulous food and gelato!) in the evenings.

We’ve rounded up the best day trips from Florence in this article, to help you zoom in on the perfect choices for your itinerary.

Some of the destinations we’ve included are cities where you could spend weeks or months (as you can in Florence!), but you can still enjoy the highlights on day trips if you are on a short visit to Italy.

Day Trips from Florence Within Tuscany Other Day Trips From Florence

Day trips from florence within tuscany, val d’orcia day trip from florence.

Want to visit the part of Tuscany you see on picture postcards?

Rolling hills, marching rows of cypresses, and that quintessential pastoral beauty that says “Tuscany!” loud and clear?

Then you will want to do a day trip from Florence to the Val d’Orcia.

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The Val’d Orcia is made up of many little towns, so the best way to explore it on your own is to rent a car for the day and drive. We have a stop-by-stop one day itinerary for Val d’ Orcia that takes you to some of the most picturesque locations in the valley.

Visit the ideal Renaissance town of Pienza, with its beautiful architecture and spectacular views. It’s one of Italy’s most beautiful towns .

Sample the famous Brunello wine at Montalcino: it is considered one of Italy’s top wines. Or the Vino Nobile in nearby Montepulciano, also ranked among Italy’s best wines.

Stop for lunch at any one of these towns. Try the local pici pasta garnished with pecorino from Pienza.

Browse the local stores for artisanal food products to bring home with you, and enjoy a scoop (or three!) of gelato as you stroll, savoring the sensational views of the Tuscan countryside from hilltop streets.

Be sure to stop at the two famous photo spots in the area, the Cypesses of San Quirico d’ Orcia, and the tiny Vitaleta Chapel.

Get your history and culture on with visits to some of the famous abbeys dotted about the region. You may even be able to hear the monks at Sant’Antimo do Gregorian chants.

Getting to the Val d’ Orcia from Florence

Other than touring independently by car, you can take the bus to one town, such as Montepulciano, for the day, or hire a private driver .

This highly-rated full-day tour of the Orcia Valley takes you to Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano, along with cheese and wine tastings as you stop at select venues. You’ll also see the Vitaleta Chapel and drive through the super scenic countryside. Book this tour now !

Contributed by us

Day Trip from Florence to Pisa

A wonderful day trip from Florence is to the city of Pisa. Pisa is a beautiful Tuscan city, with many sights, lots of restaurants, and a great atmosphere.

The city, built on the Arno River like the city of Florence, is of course known for the leaning tower of Pisa, the bell tower of the Pisa Cathedral.

The angled tower is a very popular place for photography!

What’s also great is that you can get inside the tower and climb up to the top for fabulous views.

Other must-visit sights in the complex include the Duomo (officially the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta), and the Baptistery of San Giovanni. Then walk to the Piazza dei Cavalieri to admire the beautiful architecture and to relax at a cafe and enjoy people watching.

Other than these sights, just walking through the city center is a fun activity, as you see beautiful buildings everywhere. Walking by the Arno River is fun as well.

If you are looking for a great place for lunch in Pisa, then you should go to Gusto Giusto. They have delicious sandwiches and pizza!

Getting to Pisa from Florence

It is easy to get to Pisa from Florence. The most convenient way is to travel by train. There is a direct connection and the journey takes under one hour.

If you prefer a guided tour, consider this popular tour that combines Pisa with San Gimignano and Siena for a wonderful full day out from Florence. See the highlights of each town and enjoy the scenic Tuscan countryside! Book this tour now !

Contributed by Dymphe from Dym Abroad

Day Trip from Florence to Siena

The city of Siena , capital of the region by the same name, is one of the best day trips from Florence you can do. The center of the city is a pedestrian-only zone and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

If you’ve spent much time in Florence, you’ll be aware that Italy is known for its Duomos , and Siena doesn’t disappoint. The Duomo (officially called the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta) is a beautifully designed building both inside and out.

Whilst inside, search out the Piccolomini Library, which has some incredible frescoes on the walls and ceiling. The floor of the cathedral has beautiful frescoes as well, depicting various scenes from the Bible.

Near the Duomo is the Baptistery of St. John. The baptistery is part of the cathedral complex but is a separate building. Again, it’s notable for the frescoes throughout the building and is worth a visit. 

Buy a combination ticket for all parts of the Siena Duomo complex , including the Facciatone viewpoint for great views over the rooftops of the town.

Or book this walking tour , which includes a guided tour of the Duomo di Siena, for an excellent overview of the historic center.

After viewing the Duomo, head back down towards Piazza del Campo, a huge medieval square in the middle of the city. The shell-shaped piazza is one of the largest in Europe, and is used for the annual horse race. 

On the square, you can see the Palazzo Pubblico, the town hall, with its recognizable clock tower. It is also home to the city’s infamous fountain, the Fountain of Gaia, and is surrounded by shops and cafes, perfect for people watching. 

Getting to Siena from Tuscany

The best way to visit Siena on a day trip is via bus, which takes a little over an hour each way. 

You can also visit Siena on a guided tour. This well-reviewed guided tour combines Siena with San Gimignano and Pisa, for a full-day excursion from Florence. You’ll stop at a winery in Chianti for lunch with wine tasting. Book this tour now !

Contributed by Kieren from Got My Backpack

Day Trip to Lucca from Florence

Lucca is one of the most underrated towns in Tuscany, with plenty of charm and local feel.

Among the top things to do in Lucca is to go for a walk on the city wall either at the beginning of your day trip or at the end. The wall is a popular spot for walking and cycling among the locals. 

Lucca Cathedral is situated on an anonymous square not far from the city gate by the train station. The columns are especially noteworthy as they are all different.

Legend says it is because of a competition among architects to make the columns for the cathedral. The inhabitants could not decide which one to pick, and thus decided to use all of the columns that were entered in the competition.

For lunch, make sure you head to the unique square of Piazza dell Anfiteatro, built on top of an old amphitheater. The houses form the original shape of the structure that now is mostly underground, though some of the arches are original.

Today, the square is packed with restaurants to enjoy pizza and Tuscan wine. Other points of interest are the Basilica of San Fernando, San Michele in Foro, and Torre delle Ore.

Getting to Lucca from Florence

It is easy to get to Lucca by train from Florence Santa Maria Novella, with one to two departures every hour. The journey takes between 1 hour and 20 minutes and 2 hours.

By bus, it takes more or less 2 hours from the same station with several departures a day.

A guided tour is another way to see Lucca on a day trip. This well-reviewed full-day tour from Florence combines Lucca with Pisa. You’ll see the highlights in both towns on walking tours. Book this tour now !

Contributed by Linn from Brainy Backpackers

Day Trip from Florence to Volterra

Volterra is an adorable hilltop town in Tuscany , just a short drive from Florence, where Etruscan, ancient Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance heritage sites co-exist in complete harmony.

In the 9 th – 3 rd century BC, Volterra was one of the 12 cities of the Etruscan League, a somewhat mystic civilization that completely disappeared once it landed in the hands of the Roman Empire. To learn more about the Etruscans, visit the Guarnacci Etruscan Museum and the Etruscan Acropolis.

Another attraction worth visiting in Volterra is the Roman Theater. It is one of the largest and best-preserved Roman theaters in Italy.

The historical heart of Volterra is a fine example of medieval architecture. Stroll around and enjoy the impressive medieval palazzi: Palazzo dei Priori, the oldest town hall in Tuscany, Palazzo Pretorio with the Torre del Porcellino (the Tower of the Piglet), and Palazzo Incontri.

An interesting museum to visit in Volterra is the Ecomuseum of Alabaster. Voterra is the center of alabaster production in Europe. There are a few shops in the town where you can buy handcrafted alabaster items as souvenirs, like lovely jewelry or a beautiful vase.

For the ultimate Tuscan experience, stop for lunch at VolaterrA on Via Giusto Turazza 5 (they have also a small shop with original Tuscan products) or have a pizza at Il Poggio on Via Porta all´Arco 7.

Getting to Volterra from Florence

Volterra is the perfect destination for a day trip from Florence. The best way to travel to Volterra is by car, although public transportation is an option. It takes about 2.5 hours to get from Florence to Volterra by bus, with a change in Colle val d’Elsa.

Prefer a guided tour? This highly-rated tour from Florence combines San Gimignano and Volterra for a full-day trip to two historic Tuscan hill towns. The tour includes wine tastings en route and a light lunch art a winery. Book this tour now !

Contributed by Daniela from Ipanema Travels

Day Trip to the Chianti Region from Florence

The Chianti Classico wine region is just a 40-minute drive from the Florence city center, and offers a beautiful getaway into the Italian countryside. There are copious wineries to visit, hilltop towns to explore, and views for miles. 

The Chianti Classico wine region is known for its delicious red wine, which is marked by a black rooster on the label. It is absolutely essential to try some during your visit. 

One of the first towns you’ll reach is Greve in Chianti , which has two great wineries in close proximity to each other: Castello Vicchiomaggio and Castello di Verrazzano. 

If time allows, do a winery tour to understand all that goes into making Chianti Classico wine. Both tours and tastings are offered at the wineries mentioned above, as well as many others throughout the region.

As the Chianti Classico region is not very big, it is possible to do an entire road trip around the area in a day. Be sure to take in the views of rolling hills covered in vineyards, which are occasionally topped with a village or stately mansion.

Before leaving Chianti Classico, grab some food in one of the villages and watch the sunset over the hills while sipping a glass of wine. La Cantina in Greve in Chianti serves a large selection of delicious pizza, which is best enjoyed on their patio. 

Cafè Bijoù in the village of Barberino val d’Elsa is also an excellent place to try some antipasto and enjoy sweeping views from their terrace.

Getting to the Chianti Region from Florence

To visit the Chianti Classico wine region, it is easiest to rent a car to get around the small rural villages. 

If you do not want to rent a car or plan your own itinerary, there are full day winery and food tours that leave from Florence. Just note that this will likely be a pricier option.

This popular Chianti wine tasting tour from Florence includes stops in Greve and Castellina, and tastings at two select wineries in the region. You’ll learn about the wine making process and enjoy the Tuscan wine country scenery. Book this tour now !

This popular and highly-rated full-day tour to the Chianti region, Siena, and San Gimignano is an excellent option if your time is limited. The small group tour is limited to a maximum of 12 participants. You’ll enjoy lunch, wine tasting, and a pasta-making demo in the Chianti portion of the tour. Book this tour now !

Contributed by Theresa from Fueled By Wanderlust

Day Trip from Florence to Fiesole

Fiesole is a lovely hilltop town located only about six miles from Florence, with scenic views. Fiesole is known for its museums and outstanding villas, which make it the richest neighborhood in Florence.

Piazza Mino is the main square in Fiesole. On one side, you will see the town hall, from the 14th century, a pretty stone building covered in flowers during the summer. The square has numerous cafes and restaurants along its periphery, and is a great place to sit for a bit and people watch.

The Cattedrale di San Romolo, Fiesole’s cathedral, dates from the 11th century, but has been restored several times since then. Its tall bell tower is visible from afar. The interior of the cathedral features many fine frescoes.

Fiesole’s archaeological site has an ancient Roman theater and baths, a museum, and defensive Etruscan walls. Encircled by cypress trees, it is a very attractive and relaxing area. The Civic Museum houses Greek and Roman artifacts.

Art lovers will want to visit the Bandini museum, which houses an impressive art collection from the early Renaissance, with works by masters like Della Robbia and Taddeo Gaddi. Villa Peyron is a museum with a lovely garden, one of the most popular attractions in Fiesole.

For lunch in Fiesole, Osteria Vianandro is a good budget choice and La Reggia degli Etruschi the most authentic choice, with a fantastic terrace view.

Getting to Fiesole from Florence

You can easily reach Fiesole by bus (bus number 7 from the train station in Firenze or from Piazza San Marco), by scooter or car, or on a guided tour. 

This highly-rated 2-hour e-bike tour from Florence has you exploring back roads around the city, past olive groves and cypresses, on your way to Fiesole for magnificent views. You’ll visit a Tuscan farm en route and stop for gelato. Book this tour now !

Contributed by Gabi from Under Flowery Sky

Day Trip to San Gimignano from Florence

Situated less than eight miles from Florence and Siena, San Gimignano, one of Tuscany’s most beautiful hilltop towns , is known for its stunning skyline of 14th-century medieval towers and its classic Tuscan charm. Unfortunately, it does get busy, but there are still many tranquil places to discover.

The most important building is its gorgeous cathedral. When you step inside, the two prevailing colors are blue and gold. The walls are lined with incredible 14th-century frescoes and panels depicting Old Testament stories on one side and ones from the New Testament on the other. The church of St. Agostino is also worth visiting.

The tallest tower in the town is Torre Grosse. There are 218 steps to the top and the effort is handsomely rewarded with great panoramic views. Close by stands the Piazza Comunale (Town Hall), which has an interesting exhibition of historical events.

The San Gimignano 1300 exhibition has a scale model of what the town looked like 700 years ago. The residents of the town are very artistic and you will find workshops with beautiful ceramics and landscape paintings.

There are museums and galleries to visit, including the Herbarium, a reconstruction of an ancient pharmacy. Lunch in style in the beautiful courtyard of Ristorante La Mandragola or enjoy tasty sandwiches made by the Bertelli family.

Before you leave, grab a delicious award-winning ice cream from the famous Gelateria Dondoli.

Getting to San Gimignano from Florence

San Gimignano can be reached by train from Florence to Poggibonsi, and then a bus to the town.

Prefer a guided tour? This well-reviewed tour combines Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano for an efficient way to visit the most popular Tuscan hill town day trip destinations from Florence, and includes lunch with wine tastings. Book this tour now !

Contributed by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

Day Trip to Cortona from Florence

The beautiful hilltop town of Cortona was put on the map with the release of Under the Tuscan Sun , first the book by Francis Mayes, and then the movie.

This stone-clad town has a rich history dating back to 400-600 BC. But it was in the 13th century that the town started to flourish.

The heart of this charming town is the main square, Piazza della Repubblica. It features many historical buildings from the 13th century. A well-preserved town hall, clock tower and former palace are just some of the significant landmarks you will find here.

It is a lively piazza where you will find the locals constantly coming and going, catching up with one another and stopping by their favorite shops and cafés.

There is so much to see and do in Cortona , from its many museums to its countless churches. It’s a town full of life.

So, grab a gelato from the delicious Gelateria Snoopy and simply get lost in Cortona’s endless narrow alleyways (or vicoli as the Italians call them) and take in those epic Tuscan countryside views.

Getting to Cortona from Florence

Cortona sits in the eastern part of Tuscany, in the Arezzo region, very close to the border of the Umbria region. It is about an hour’s drive from Florence or 90 minutes by train.  

Or consider this full-day guided tour to Cortona and Assisi from Florence! The well-reviewed tour includes admission to renowned churches and the chance to walk around Cortona on your own. Book this tour now !

Contributed by Renee from Dream Plan Experience

Day Trip from Florence to Viareggio

If you are looking for some quiet beach time during your visit to Florence, Viareggio, on the Tuscany coast, is within easy day trip distance of the city. A glamorous resort at one time, Viareggio was known as the Pearl of the Tyrhennian Sea, with celebrities enjoying a relaxed holiday here by the sea.

With over six miles of sandy beachfront, today Viareggio continues to be a popular seaside resort, especially for families wanting a beach holiday.

Access to much of the beachfront is paid. You can rent an umbrella and loungers, and hang out for the day. Payment also entitles you to the use of restrooms and showers.

From June to September the water is warm enough to swim, and the surf is shallow, making the beaches here great for families with kids. Bagno Maurizio has just under 100 feet of beachfront, and is clean and reasonably-priced.

Stroll the Passeggiata, the seafront promenade, lined with shops and restaurants. Admire the Art Nouveau architecture.

The Gran Caffe Margherita, designed by Alfredo Belluomini and artist Galileo Chini, is the most famous structure along the promenade. Reportedly, the cafe was a favorite place to relax for Italian composer Puccini.

For lunch, try Ristorante da Stefano. Their pastas are excellent, and the seafood dishes fresh and flavorful.

During Carnivale, which generally occurs from the end of January to the beginning of March, the town gets a big influx of visitors, who come to enjoy the five days of parades and floats during this period. While it is a fun time to visit, expect crowds.

Getting to Viareggio from Florence

You can take the train from Florence to Viareggio: the journey time is about one hour and 20 minutes. You can also drive, if you are touring Italy by car.

Day Trip from Florence to Elba Island

One of the most exciting day trips from Florence you can do is to Elba Island, the island to which Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled.

Considered the crown jewel of the Arcipelago Toscano National Park, Elba Island is located between the Ligurian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The island is large, with diverse landscapes, and you cannot really see all of it in one day. But on a day trip, you can certainly take in its beauty, and enjoy a few activities of your choice. Arrive early in the day, to maximize your time on the island.

The Palazzina dei Mulini in Portoferraio, Napoleon’s residence on the island, is a must-visit. Tour the beautiful home and gardens and then head to Forte Falcone, built by the Medicis in the 16th century as a defense for the town.

Fort Stella, on the second-tallest hill, offers beautiful views. Also stop by at the Misericordia Church and the Museum of Napoleonic Antiques.

If you have a car, you can spend the rest of the day touring the island. the hill town of Marciana offers sensational views. Take the chairlift to the top of Mount Capanne, the highest peak on Elba Island. The views from the top are breathtaking.

Enjoy beach time at one of the many beautiful beaches on the island — Fetovaia and Cavoli are gorgeous — before making your way back to the ferry.

If you do not have a car, you can take the bus from Portoferraio to another part of the island for the afternoon. Take the bus to Marciana, or to Porto Azzurro, for some quiet time enjoying the beauty of the island.

Getting to Elba Island from Florence

To get to Elba Island from Florence, drive to Piombino Marittima, and then take the ferry (a combined journey time of about 3 hours).

There is a train from Florence as well, but it will not give you enough time on the island on a day trip. Alternatively, book a guided tour for a hassle-free way to visit the island.

Other Day Trips from Florence

Day trip from florence to the cinque terre.

The five fishing villages known as the Cinque Terre are some of the most beautiful spots on the Italian Riviera. If you want to experience Italy like it is portrayed in the movies, this is the place to go.

Come to the Cinque Terre for incredible hiking, Italian culture, and charming architecture.

It’s definitely possible to see all five villages in one day but if you truly want to enjoy your time in the Cinque Terre, you should pick one or two, so you can spend more time enjoying the place and less traveling.

Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso are all remarkable in their own way, so which ones you visit is up to you.

Spend the day by the beach or explore the alleyways of the villages. Don’t forget to have lunch in a traditional Italian restaurant after you have explored the nearby trails like the Sentiero Azzurro, which takes you along an old mule road from one village to another.

If you’re not in the mood for hiking in the hot sun, you should take the train between the villages. This is a great way to get around and lets you see the surrounding countryside while you are at it.

Getting from Florence to the Cinque Terre

To get to the Cinque Terre from Florence you need to change trains in La Spezia, which is easily manageable. The fast train from Florence to La Spezia takes about 2 hours. At La Spezia, switch to the local Cinque Terre train to get to one or all of the villages.

Of course, if you have a car you’ll have a lot more freedom to explore. However, parking can be tight, so taking the train is highly advisable. During the Italian summer, you could also take a ferry to the villages, which is an incredible experience.

This highly-rated guided tour of the Cinque Terre from Florence offers the option to add on a scenic lunch and/or a hike through coastal vineyards. The full-day tour includes the option for a boat ride between April and October, to see the villages from the water as well. Book this tour now !

Contributed by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Day Trip from Florence to Venice

Venice is an ancient city built on a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. With striking facades overlooking the winding canals, Venice is one of Italy’s most picturesque cities. It is a vibrant city full of history, art, architecture, cafes, and restaurants, which all tell the story of this mesmerizing city.

Venice has strict laws about historical preservation, so a lot of what you see is much like it was a half-century ago. It feels like you are walking through history! You will want to experience a gondola ride in Venice and see the city the way it was meant to be seen. Visit St. Marks Square, where everyone comes to see and be seen, and enjoy people watching at Caffè Florian.

St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s palace, the two most iconic buildings in Venice, stand side by side. Skip the massive lineups by going early, or get a guide to skip the line and view the most important treasures.

Allow yourself to get lost in Venice, as the hidden paths you find will be some of the most memorable parts of the city. Walk away from San Marco to some of the other districts like Dorsoduro and Canareggio to see the quieter, real Venice. A great spot for lunch, Trattoria alla Madonna, is hidden in a narrow street located near the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge. Serving traditional Venetian cuisine, the restaurant feels rustic and truly Italian and has fantastic seafood.

Getting from Florence to Venice

The distance from Florence to Venice is 160 miles. On a high-speed train, Venice can be reached in just over two hours, and it’s the best way to travel from Florence for a day trip to Venice.

If you are driving, the autostrada (highways A13 and E35), takes around three hours.

Contributed by Debbie from World Adventurists

Day Trip from Florence to Milan

One of the best places to visit in Northern Italy , Milan makes an easy and fun-filled day trip from Florence.

Milan is considered one of the global “Big Four” fashion capitals of the twenty-first century, along with Paris, London, and New York. So fashion week is a great time to visit Milan if you enjoy haute couture.

Milan’s UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria Delle Grazie, which houses the painting “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci.

Book a walking tour to take in the best sights in Milan in an efficient way on a day trip, including “The Last Supper.”

In the city center, you will find the biggest church in Italy, the Gothic Duomo di Milano dedicated to the Nativity of St Mary. It was built over six centuries and houses many artworks from different periods.

Book skip-the-line tickets to the Milan Duomo ahead of your visit, to save time!

Across the Piazza del Duomo is the splendid Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the oldest shopping mall from the 19th century, with two glass-vaulted arcades.

On the other side, you can admire the famous opera venue, La Scala, from the 18th century. Other places of interest in Milan include Castello Sforzesco, the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery, the 4th-century church St. Ambrose, and Piazza dei Mercanti.

For sports fans, Milano is home to two world-class soccer clubs: AC Milan and Internazionale Milano that share the stadium San Siro with 83,000 seats.

For lunch on a day out in Milan, try Ristorante Savini in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a favorite of locals, or the traditional Al Cantinone withh its trattoria atmosphere and hearty portions.

Getting to Milan from Florence

Milan is less than two hours away from Florence by fast train.

Contributed by Džangir from Dr. Jam Travels

Day Trip to Rome from Florence

Packed with some of the most beautiful archeological sites you’ll ever see, and pretty plazas, fountains and churches galore, Rome certainly deserves more than just a day trip. But if that is all you have, you may as well go and try to make the most of it.

There are so many things to do in Rome that you’ll want to toss that proverbial coin into the Trevi Fountain to assure your return some day!

Carefully pick the places you want to visit, stick to a good itinerary, and get skip-the-line tickets. If it is your first time in the city, you should visit the classic Rome landmarks :

The Colosseum – Perhaps the most iconic image of Rome, it’s where gladiators fought against wild animals. The structure is a fantastic example of what Romans were able to achieve. Tickets cost €16 and must be booked in advance.

The Roman Forum – Admission is included in your Colosseum ticket price, so you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to wander the ruins of the Forum and admire the remains of ancient temples.

Altare della Patria – Easy walking distance from the Roman Forum, the pristine white monument is dedicated to the first king of united Italy.

Largo di Torre Argentina – Not far from the Altare della Patria once you pass Piazza Venezia, this archeological site is where Julius Caesar was stabbed to death and now houses a famous cat sanctuary. Browse around the ruins, pet the cats, and maybe make a donation.

The Pantheon – construction of this temple-now-Catholic church was ordered by Emperor Hadrian in 126 AD. You can view the tombs of artist Raphael and King Victor Emmanuel II. Access is free.

For lunch, make a small detour and head to the Jewish Ghetto to try some dishes of Roman Kosher cuisine. Baghetto is a safe bet for delicious food.

Getting to Rome from Florence

The easiest way to get from Florence to Rome is by train. Frecciarossa trains depart from Santa Maria Novella Station and reach Rome Termini Station in 1 hour and 36 minutes.

Contributed by Claudia from Strictly Rome

Day Trip from Florence to Bologna

Known for its beautiful architecture, many porticoes, and delicious food, Bologna has acquired three nicknames over the centuries: la dotta (the learned, in honor of its university), la rossa (the red, for the hue of many of its buildings), and, most important to day trippers, la grassa (the fat, in honor of its food).

Come to Bologna to explore, yes–but also to eat.

With a day trip to the city, you can check out several of the best things to do in Bologna, including visiting the charming Piazza Maggiore, climbing the leaning Asinelli Tower for incredible views of the city, tracking down some of Bologna’s hidden canals, and strolling down the charming Via Drapperie.

No day trip to Bologna is complete without a giant meal, though: sit down at lunch for at least three courses, and be sure to try Bologna’s signature dish, tagliatelle al ragu, while you’re there. This is the same dish that is ostensibly called “spaghetti bolognese” in the rest of the world–but the imitations are absolutely nothing like the real thing.

Getting to Bologna from Florence

The easiest way to take your day trip is to travel from Florence to Bologna by train : tickets are affordable, and if you take the local train (also known as the slow train), the prices are fixed and the journey takes about 1.5-2 hours each way.

Contributed by Kate from Our Escape Clause

Day Trip from Florence to Portovenere

The charming village of Portovenere shares the same stunning coastline as the Cinque Terre, yet it is far less frequented than its five famous neighbors.

You can also combine a visit to Portovenere with lovely Lerici , for a fantastic day out from Florence.

Located just a short drive from La Spezia, in the Bay of Poets, Portovenere is an idyllic spot, surrounded by islands, a National Park, and plenty of historical attractions to explore.

Arrive early to beat the crowds and spend the day lazing on its beaches, taking the ferry out to the wild and rugged Palmaria Island, exploring the Doria Castle and rambling through the old town’s maze of streets.

Be sure to also take a dip at Lord Byron’s beloved grotto, climb up into the hills for the best views of the village and bay that lies beyond, and amble up to the Church of St. Peter with its rooftop terrace and the loggia with a view next door.

When it’s time for lunch, dine on the fresh catch of the day at the seaside Torre di Venere, nearby St Peter’s church.

Or, if you’re just after a casual bite to eat, pick up some fresh pasta smothered in freshly made pesto at La Bottega del Pesto on the main street, and follow it up with a delicious gelato as you wander through the cobbled lanes. 

Getting to Portovenere from Florence

Portovenere makes an easy day trip from Florence by car, taking around 2 hrs each way. Or, if you’re taking public transport, you can catch the train from Florence directly to La Spezia where you can transfer to a bus or ferry for the final leg of the journey.

Contributed by Nadine from Le Long Weekend

Day Trip to Porretta Terme from Florence

Tucked away in the Reno Valley of the Tuscan-Emilian Appenines north of Florence are dozens of charming small towns, natural wonders, and roads just crying out to be explored.

Not far from Florence is Porretta Terme, a small town that’s grown around its most famous local attraction since Roman times — thermal hot springs.

The town is also a good base for winter sports like downhill and cross-country skiing, making the combination of snow and hot springs the reason many Italians head here to relax in the winter months. 

To soak in the springs, head to the Hotel delle Acque & Natural Spa. It’s open to the public year round. 

There are several ski resorts to enjoy in the nearby Corno alle Scale Regional Park, and Dardagna Falls is a favorite hike among outdoor lovers, just one of the many scenic landscapes to explore. 

Be sure and stop for lunch or dinner at Antica Trattoria Toscana for the perfect plate of local pasta and a glass of wine.

Finally, if you’re a lover of soul music, and plan on visiting the region in mid-late July, the Porretta Terme Soul Festival is a must-see.

Since 1987, the show has been dedicated to the memory of soul legend Otis Redding and is an easy day trip from Bologna or Florence to catch the show.

Getting to Porretta Terme from Florence

If you love a good road trip, driving to Porretta Terme is easy and recommended. But trains run frequently from both Florence and Bologna directly into town.

Contributed by Lori from Travlinmad , Photo Credit Travlinmad

Day Trip from Florence to Modena

Modena, in the charming northern region of Emilia Romagna, is famous for fast cars, fine food, and world famous Italians.

From Enzo Ferrari, race car driver and man behind the eponymous supercar brand, to the renowned opera singer Luciano Pavarotti, some of Italy’s most famous exports come from Modena.

Not only is Modena the home of Ferrari, but it is also the founding place for other supercar brands including Lamborghini, Maserati and Pagani.

All of these cars are still designed and produced in Modena today and visitors can actually go to see the production lines and factories, with the Lamborghini factory being the easiest to visit. Modena is also famous for its food, with many PDO (protected designations of origin) products originating here. A great place to sample and purchase these foods is at the atmospheric and exciting Mercato Albinelli food market.

Make sure to also visit the heart of Modena, which is packed with interesting sites, including the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Piazza Grande. This beautiful city is an easy day trip from Florence. For lunch, you must visit Franceschetta58, associated with world-renowned chef Massimo Bottura, or Ristorante da Danilo, a traditional and well-liked Modena eatery.

Getting to Modena from Florence

You can travel from Florence to Modena by train. The journey takes about one hour and 27 minutes on average.

Contributed by Claire from Stoked to Travel

Day Trip to Assisi from Florence

Assisi is a beautiful Umbrian hill town, famous as the birthplace of Saint Francis. On a day trip from Florence to Assisi, you can take in the major sights, but start early to maximize your sightseeing time.

The Basilica of Saint Francis should be at the top of your one day itinerary for Assisi. The world-famous Catholic religious site is part of Assisi’s UNESCO World Heritage designation and has two levels.

The Lower Basilica is Romanesque and the Upper Basilica is Gothic. The interiors feature stunning frescoes by masters such as Giotto.

The Basilica of Saint Claire, a 13th century Gothic church, is another must-visit sight in Assisi, as is San Rufino, the Assisi Cathedral.

Wander the streets of the centro storico, also part of the UNESCO site. The Oratorio dei Pellegrini is a gem you definitely must not miss: the small chapel has been beautifully frescoed.

If you have the time, and the energy, a walk up to the Rocca Maggiore, the castle that looms over the town, is worth the effort. The views from the octagonal tower are superb.

For lunch, try Trattoria Pallotta, located in front of the Temple of Minerva in the Piazza del Comune. They offer delicious local Umbrian cuisine and a good selection of wines.

Getting to Assisi from Florence

While you can drive to Assisi if you are touring Italy by car, you can also visit from Florence by fast train. The journey is a little over two hours.

Florence to Lake Garda Day Trip

If you’re looking for a fun day trip from Florence, head to Lake Garda. This beautiful lake is the largest lake in Italy and known for its crystal clear waters and breathtaking scenery.

The lake is too large to travel around in one day (unless you are touring Italy in a campervan or car) but there’s plenty to do just at the southern end of the lake, nearest to Florence.

First, head to Grotte di Catullo, the ruins of a Roman Villa, built over 2000 years ago! Get here as early as you can because it’s a huge tourist attraction and by mid-morning it will be very crowded. 

Next, visit nearby Sirmione. This picturesque town looks like it was built for a Hollywood movie, but actually dates back to Roman times. The fortress is 12th century and you can book a tour around the inside if you wish: the views down the lake are even better higher up.

Don’t miss the chance to wander around the town. There are some fantastic boutique shops and plenty of cafes with unbeatable views. Bruschetteria Nose has some wonderful light options for lunch.

If the weather is nice, why not take to the water? You can rent a boat of your own in Sirmione, or join one of the frequent tours. Alternatively, if you are driving a small car, head up the western side of the lake and drive the Gorge Road, one of the most incredible roads in Europe. 

Getting to Lake Garda from Florence

Lake Garda can be reached in around 2 hours from Florence by road, or 4 hours by train, so driving is the best option for this day trip.  

Contributed by Kat from Wandering Bird

Day Trip from Florence to Verona

Verona is perfect for a day trip. It’s a city made for wandering and small enough that in one day in Verona you can see the major sights. There’s a real Romeo and Juliet theme running through Verona, since this fictional tale was set here.

Among the many things to do in Verona , you can stand on Juliet’s balcony, and learn more about the history of Shakespeare within the city.

Also consider popping into one of the many bakeries for some ‘Romeo’s Sighs and Juliet’s Kisses’ — sweet biscotti that are sold by the weight and very tasty.

Verona’s most awesome attraction is the historic Arena in Piazza Bra, older than the Colosseum in Rome and much more accessible. The crowds here are less, and it is much easier to wind your way through, making it much more evocative.

It’s also great to get an overview of the city by climbing up the Lamberti Tower (Torre dei Lamberti), which is right in the center. This 12th century tower gives a lovely perspective over the terracotta rooftops of Verona.

Whether you’re visiting as part of a family holiday to Italy , or on a romantic couples trip or solo jaunt, the gelato shops of Verona are legendary and everyone will enjoy the sweet treats!

Verona certainly works for a day trip but once you do go, you will want to return again for longer.

Getting to Verona from Florence

You can take a fast train from Florence to Verona and arrive in about one hour and 30 minutes.

Contributed by Victoria from Family Hotel Expert

Day Trip from Florence to Padua

Padua is an excellent day trip from Florence because it is a delightful city full of churches, piazzas, frescoes, and history. It has one of the oldest and largest universities in Italy, and therefore, there are many young people and students.

The city is pedestrian-friendly, and all of the attractions are accessible on foot in walking distance of each other.

There are many exciting things to do in Padua on a day trip. First, visit Prato della Valle, which is one of the biggest squares in Europe. It is beautiful because of the 78 statues around the canals and is a popular place for locals to relax.

Second, you should visit Palazzo della Ragione, a medieval town hall with frescoes on its top floor. Thirdly, check out the Piazza dei Signori and the Clock Tower that stands tall in the square.

Finally, visit the Scrovegni Chapel, which contains a fresco cycle masterpiece by Giotto and is arguably one of the most important pieces of Western art.

Make sure you have an aperitif or lunch at La Yarda, which is the perfect place to soak up the youthful atmosphere and enjoy a spritz.

Getting to Padua from Florence

The most convenient way to reach Padua from Florence is to catch a direct high speed train through the Italian countryside. The journey will take less than 2 hours, whereas it is 2 hours 45 minutes by car.

Contributed by Rachel from Average Lives

Day Trip from Florence to Ferrara

Florence is one of the most popular cities in Italy and for good reason. Apart from being a dreamy destination in itself, it’s also the perfect base from where to explore other fascinating destinations in Italy, such as Ferrara .

Ferrara, a gorgeous medieval town with irresistibly authentic vibes , is one of the country’s best-kept secrets. 

Although relatively small in size, Ferrara hides many treasures. Among the best things to do there, a visit to the imposing Castello Estense definitely stands out.

Other ways to appreciate Ferrara’s distinct charm include walking or cycling along the old medieval walls, marveling at the remarkable Palazzo dei Diamanti and mingling with locals at Piazza Cattedrale. 

Like everywhere else in Emilio-Romagna, Ferrara is a true culinary heaven. The best place to try the local cuisine is the Osteria I Quattro Angeli.

Apart from mouthwatering traditional dishes, such as cappellacci di zucca, this restaurant also boasts a prime location with breathtaking views to the glorious Castello Estense.

Getting to Ferrara from Florence

If you’re enjoying Italy on a road trip, driving time from Florence to Ferrara ranges from two to three hours, depending on the selected route.

However, if driving isn’t an option, the most convenient and hassle-free way to get to Ferrara from Florence is by train. Journey time is slightly less than two hours on average, but the excellent views along the way will keep you engaged.

Contributed by Maria from It’s All Trip to Me

So there you have it: our suggestions for two dozen exciting day trips to add to your itinerary for Florence. Which ones will you choose?

If you enjoy day trips as a means to exploring out from big cities, check out our other day trip guides for Italy!

• The Most Exciting Day Trips from Rome
• The Best Day Trips from Sorrento
• Must-Do Day Trips from Venice
• Day Trips from Bologna
• Day Trips from Milan You Must Do!

Did you find this article informative? Pin it for later reference!

Dhara's travel interests are eclectic, spanning everything from natural wonders to history, culture, art and architecture. She has visited 22 countries, many more than once, plus almost all 50 states of the USA, and has amassed a hoard of cherished travel moments.

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15 Cutest Day Trips From Florence: How To & Local Tips!

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Looking for the Cutest Day Trips from Florence, Italy? 

I’ve got you covered! I’ve been to Florence multiple times in the past couple of years, and I absolutely love the city’s food scene and famous places within the city, especially the Uffizi Museum and the Boboli Gardens (when it’s not blistering hot!)

But another reason I love Florence is because it’s within driving distance of the most beautiful parts of Tuscany, quaint villages along the Mediterranean Sea, and large cities like Bologna, Milan, Venice, Genoa, and Rome.  

I’ve had the opportunity to take a bunch of day trips from Florence and honestly believe it’s the best home base in Italy, even better than Rome! So, in this post, I’ll share which best day trips and weekend breaks from Florance are actually worth doing. Any combination of these 15 different day trips from Florence will make your Italian holiday one to remember!

My Top 3 Favorites!

Table of Contents

Getting Around Florence

Italy has an established public transportation system, so there are multiple ways to get in and around Florence. People typically use the train for intercity travel , but guided tours are the most convenient option, and renting a car in Florence to explore Tuscany provides the most flexibility . 

Italy’s train system is fast, efficient, and you can get almost anywhere in the country. High-speed trains connect Florence to large cities like Bologna, Rome, Venice, and Milan. But if you want to travel to smaller towns by train, you’ll need to use the slower regional trains. 

👉 TRAIN TICKETS: You can see regional maps, check current timetables, and book tickets on Trainline.com.

The good news is almost every town near Florence has its own train station.

Renting a car is the most versatile way to explore the Tuscan region around Florence. It gives you complete freedom and flexibility to beat the crowds, stay at each destination as long as you’d like, and make spontaneous pit stops along the way!

➡️ The best company to use for renting a little Fiat in Italy is Discover Cars – it’s what I use!

They compare hundreds of agencies (both local and international) to find the best deals, and they even offer full coverage for just €5-7 euros per day!

If you are in Florence, the dream is to rent a little Fiat convertible and explore the winding roads of Tuscany on your own. Get out of the city limits and create a unique road trip through the vineyards! (obviously, drink responsibly if you’re the one driving). 

By Guided Tour

If you don’t want to plan every step of your day trip , guided tours are the way to go! You just show up and enjoy the ride. The guides will take care of all transportation, tickets, and staying on schedule! 

Guided tours are also helpful for visiting historic destinations. With a tour guide, you’ll gain even more appreciation for each destination by learning about the history and culture of the area!

15 Cutest Day Trips from Florence

These day trips from Florence are organized generally by their accessibility (shortest travel time at the top of the list). Then if they are similar distances, I’ll always put what I think is the cutest day trip from Florence first 🙂. 

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: Tuscany Day trip from Florence: Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, and Lunch at a Winery

📍 GETTING HERE: 1 hour by train / 1 hour 30 minutes by car 

Pisa is the most popular day trip from Florence, partially because it’s an iconic landmark in Italy, but it’s also very easy to reach by train. 

The famous Leaning Tower of Pisa is actually a bell tower dating back to the 12th century. It’s a beautiful piece of architecture, with six levels of intricate stone arches reaching 186 feet (56 m) into the sky. 

Despite its impressive design, the tower began tilting due to an unstable foundation. Luckily, city officials have taken measures to ensure the tower won’t fall, and visitors can even climb to the top for a bird’s eye view of the city. 

On my first trip to Florence, I was really excited to visit the iconic leaning tower, but I didn’t anticipate everything else to see and do around Pisa!

Other notable attractions just a short walk from the leaning tower include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, The Baptistry, the Camposanto, and more architectural marvels. 

If you have time, I highly recommend walking downtown and grabbing dinner or some gelato on the River Arno. It’s such a picturesque place to take a walk or have dinner as the sun goes down, especially near the Ponte Di Mezzo (Mezzo Bridge).  

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: Bologna Food Experience: Factory Tours and Family Style Lunch

📍 GETTING HERE: 40 minutes by train / 1 hour 30 minutes by car

Bologna is home to nearly 400,000 residents and has an equally rich culture with tons of museums and architectural marvels to visit. 

But the reason most people spend time in Bologna is for the food. It’s the gastronomical capital of Italy – and I’m sure most Italian towns would protest that title, but hey, who am I to judge?!

There are a lot of great dishes that come from Italy, and we have Bologna to thank for many of them. Bolognese Pasta Sauce, Mortadella, Tortellini in Brodo, and 7-layer sheet pasta (Lasagna) all originated in Bologna. 

Here are the top-rated local restaurants to visit on a day trip from Florence

• All’Osteria Bottega – Traditional Bolognese-Style dishes, meats, and wines
• Trattoria Da Me – Tortellini, lasagna, and other traditional pasta dishes
• Drogheria della Rosa – homestyle Bolognese cooking, great desserts, and a long wine list

Once you’ve finished stuffing yourself, plan some time to enjoy the awesome non-foodie things to do in the city, from local markets to the Piazza Maggiore and the University of Bologna. 

I’ve spent a long weekend in Bologna, and although the food was great, I felt it was a tad bit dirty and graffitied up. So I would recommend a day trip over spending a few nights in the city.   

3. Chianti Hills

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: Florence to Chianti Wine Region with 2 Wine Tastings & Vineyards

📍 GETTING HERE: 1 hour 15 minutes by train / 40 minutes by car 

Chianti lies right in the heart of Tuscany, right between Florence and Siena. It’s one of the most notable wine regions in the world, and if you like red wine, you’ve probably seen a bottle or two at the grocery store from Chianti.

The Chianti Hills are full of small villages full of scenic vineyards. A few of the most popular spots include Greve, Radda, and Castellina. These towns have seemingly endless wine bars, tasting cellars, and gift shops where you can enjoy delicious red & white wine with a view of the Tuscan countryside. 

If you like hiking, you can also take advantage of miles and miles of scenic trails through the vineyards! 

The best way to see the region is by renting a car (preferably a little Fiat convertible) and cruising through the Chianti Hills on your own. It’s seriously straight out of a fairy tale, plus you’ll find small local wineries and vineyards that guided tours pass by.

But booking a guided day tour from Florence is still worthwhile. With a tour guide, you don’t have to worry about getting from one winery to the next or driving back to Florence after a few glasses. 🍷

📍 GETTING HERE: 1 hour 30 minutes by train / 1 hour 15 minutes by car

As the second largest city in Tuscany, Siena is a coveted place to visit and a convenient day trip from Florence. 

Believe it or not, the city is known for fruitcakes! However, people also love to check out the Palio di Siena (a bi-annual horse race) and the Duomo di Siena, which is considered even more awe-inspiring than the Duomo of Florence. 

Siena’s Duomo houses artwork from Donatello, Michelangelo, and other famous painters. If you visit in the summer, I would buy skip-the-line tickets to ensure you won’t wait hours to enter. These tickets will grant you access to the entire Siena Cathedral Complex. 

If you are spending a full day in Siena, get there in time to walk through the narrow cobblestone streets and marvel at the medieval architecture around the city. Be sure to plan a route that passes by the Palazzo Pubblico Castle. 

 👉 Looking for a great view?   Head to the top of the Torre del Mangia or Opera della Metropolitana to look over the green rolling hills sprawling beyond the city. 

5. San Gimignano

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano Day Trip from Florence + Lunch

📍 GETTING HERE: 1.5 – 2 hours by train (requires transfer) / 1 hour by car

San Gimignano is a medieval hilltop town with historic buildings and 14 ‘ancient skyscrapers.’

Historically, the 13th-century walled city served as a pit stop for pilgrims and traders traveling from northern Italy to Rome. Today, thousands of visitors come each day to climb the towers and enjoy a scenic view of Tuscany. 

Overall, I think it’s a fun place to sightsee, have an aperitivo , and browse local souvenir shops. 

Be sure to grab dessert at the Gelateria Dondoli (a multiple-time Gelato World Champion!) They have tons of classic and unique flavors to try. 

👉 PRO TIP: San Gimignano is one of the most touristy places to visit from Florence, so if you’re visiting without a tour, get there early (around 8 a.m.) to avoid heavy crowds. 

6. Monteriggioni

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: Tuscany Day: Siena, San Ginignano, & Monteriggioni Wine Tour

📍 GETTING HERE: 2 hours by train (must transfer in Siena) / 1 hour by car 

Monteriggioni is a tiny walled town in the province of Siena, Italy. It was built in the 13th-14th century to defend against the Florentines and has become one of Tuscany’s most iconic attractions. 

The fortress walls are still intact, and you can even walk along the walls to each watchtower and envision what it would have been like to live there over 700 years ago!

You only need about an hour to walk through the ancient walls and see the city, so most travelers combine their visit to Monteriggionini with Siena (25 minutes away) or San Gimignano (35 minutes away) to fill the rest of their Florence day trip itinerary. 

If you’re planning a private day trip to Tuscany from Florence, Monteriggioni is one historical place you should not skip! In addition to walking the Cinta Muraria (city walls), be sure to see each city gate, visit the museum, and sample Tuscan cuisine at one of the local restaurants.

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: Pisa and Lucca Day trip from Florence

📍 GETTING HERE: 1 hour 30 minutes by train/bus / 1 hour 30 minutes by car 

Lucca is a charming, laid-back city known as the ‘city for 100 churches.’ The Renaissance-era architecture and breathtaking views of Tuscany draw visitors here year after year.

Whether you’re looking to explore historical sites or indulge in some delicious Italian cuisine, there are plenty of things to do on a day trip from Florence to Lucca. You can climb the Guinigi Tower to see oak trees growing in the sky, grab a drink in the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, or meander through the weekly markets selling handmade artisanal goods.

You can also rent bikes in Lucca and take a leisurely ride along the 16th-century walls that encircle the city. 

The city of Lucca is also just 30 minutes from Pisa, so it’s easy to combine them into a single day if you’re up for putting a couple of stops on the itinerary.

8. Montepulciano

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: Montalcino, Orcia Valley, Pienza, and Montepulciano: Wine & Cheese Tour from Florence

📍 GETTING HERE: 3 hours 40 minutes by train / 1 hour 30 minutes by car

Montepulciano is another famous medieval town near Florence. It’s situated on a hilltop in the Tuscan countryside and overlooks the beautiful Val d’Orcia valley. 

Most people come to Montepulciano for the wine. There are numerous vineyards, wine cellars, and tasting rooms to check out around the city.  But the town has much more than wine! 

Montepulciano has beautiful Renaissance architecture and enchanting cobblestone streets that feel straight out of a fairytale. 

👉 PRO TIP: If you’re interested in the most Instagrammable spots in Tuscany , I recommend visiting two cypress-lines zigzagging roads just a short drive from Montepulciano. You can find them at Cipressi di Monticchiello (southeast of Monticchiello) and Cypress Lined Road (near La Foce). 

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: Verona Highlights Walking Tour with Small Group

📍 GETTING HERE: 1 hour 45 minutes by train, 2 hours 45 minutes by car

Verona is a romantic city about 3 hours from Florence, and it’s absolutely worth visiting on a day trip to northern Italy. The city is full of authentic Italian culture, intricate architecture, and ancient Roman ruins. 

But most people visit Verona because it’s the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet . Although Shakespeare never actually visited the city, there are still mythical landmarks to visit, like Juliet’s House, Juliet’s Tomb, and Juliet’s balcony. 

👉 PRO TIP: If you’re a huge fan of Romeo and Juliet , then this walking tour will be more your speed !

Other things to see and do in Verona include Castelvecchio Bridge and Domes Mercatorun, or you can simply wander around the charming cobblestone streets filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

The city also hosts various festivals throughout the year. The most well-known is the Arena di Verona Opera Festival.

10. Cinque Terre

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: Cinque Terre Day Trip with Transport from Florence

📍 GETTING HERE: 3 hours by train, 2 hours 30 minutes by car 

Cinque Terre is a famous group of 5 colorful villages near La Spezia, Italy. If you’re reading this, you’ve undoubtedly seen a few photos of the cliffside villages. It’s a surreal place, and you will need a full day to see everything here! 

The villages are all a part of Cinque Terre National Park, which has well-maintained trails that take you to breathtaking views of the Italian Riviera coast. The area was even declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 for its unique beauty and cultural significance. 

Manarola and Vernazza have the most famous viewpoints of the five villages, but Monterossa is the most underrated. It’s the best place to spend time at the beach or have a seaside dinner. There are also lots of small artisan vendors where you can buy souvenirs!

Many people love to experience the beauty of Cinque Terre on foot – the hike through all five villages is just 20 kilometers . But if you only have one day, you should take the train to spend more time in each place.

11. Castiglione della Pescaia

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: Castiglione della Pescaia: Walking Tour in an Ancient Village

📍 GETTING HERE: 3 hours 15 minutes by train, 2 hours 15 minutes by car

Castiglione della Pescaia is another coastal town near Florence with crystal clear water and a picturesque harbor overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.

There are some vacation resorts, but it’s an unassuming, quiet town that retains a lot of its roots as an old fishing village. The lush landscape is consistent with the rest of Tuscany, including olive groves, pinewoods forest, and farming.

The entire coastline is full of organized beaches with sunbeds, beach clubs, cafes, restaurants, and other beach activities like volleyball and parasailing.

👉 PRO TIP: If you’re looking for a weekend at the beach near Florence, this is a great option, and there are so many adorable guesthouses. My top pick would be Agriturismo La Luciana !

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: Florence to Venice: The Floating City

📍 GETTING HERE: 2 hours by train / 3 hours by car

The Floating City of Venice is a bucket-list destination for nearly everyone traveling to Italy, and I agree it’s a place you must see at least once! Venice offers a unique blend of history, culture, and romance that you won’t find anywhere else – and it’s less than 3 hours from Florence!

Yes, Venice is touristy. But when you’re sailing along the Grand Canal at sunset, you won’t care! 

Of course, you should see famous sights like St. Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge, and the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. 

But make time to wander through the less visited districts of the city, too. For example, the sestiri (neighborhood) of Castello is often untouched by cruise passengers and day trippers! 

Then head to T Fondaco Rooftop Terrace for an unobstructed view of the Grand Canal without the queue.

13. Orbetello

📍 GETTING HERE: 2 hours 30 minutes by car / 3 hours by train 

There are very few tours from Florence to Orbetello, so you will need to create your own itinerary to visit this beautiful beach town. 

Orbetollo is a coastal town in the Tuscany region of Italy with unique geography. The rural village sits in the middle of three isthmus, all over 5 kilometers long, connecting the Monte Argentario Peninsula to mainland Italy.

You’ll find long beaches, diverse nature reserves, and tranquil lagoons along each connecting piece of land. 

Orbetollo is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking weekend beach trip from Florence. The two most accessible beaches are Feniglia Beach and Giannella Beach. Their sandy shores and mellow waves make it a favorite for families with small children!

People also enjoy camping, wetland tours, and birdwatching in Orbetello.

It’s farther away than the other day trips on this list, but the direct train route means it’s still close enough for a day or weekend trip from Florence. 

14. Saturnia

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: I highly recommend renting a car to visit the Saturnia Hot Springs !

📍 GETTING HERE: 3 hours by car / 6-7 hours by train + bus

Saturnia is a small town halfway between Florence and Rome, and comes highly recommended by my Italian friends. Tours from Florence to Saturnia are hard to find – so I highly recommend renting a car in Florence to visit the hot springs.

It’s about 3 hours each way, but many people still find it worth the journey to relax in the thermal baths and natural hot springs that have made the town famous. 

The main attraction in Saturnia is the Terme di Saturnia , which includes three thermal pools with water temperatures ranging from 36-37°C (96-98ºF). The natural baths are open to the public year-round, and while they aren’t huge, you’ll still be able to find an open spot in the pools.

Some notes to help you make the most of your visit:

• Bring water shoes
• Don’t wear jewelry into the thermal baths
• There are no changing facilities at the hot springs. So, if you don’t love the idea of changing in the parking lot, make sure to wear your bathing suit!

Aside from relaxing in the thermal pools, Saturnia also has some great hikes and vineyards nearby.

15. Lake Como

➡️ BEST GUIDED TOUR: 1-Hour Private Boat Tour Lake Como (transportation not included)

📍 GETTING HERE: 3 hours 15 minutes by train / 4 hours 15 minutes by car

Lake Como is probably the farthest I’d go on a day trip from Florence, and it’s definitely better to take an entire weekend to visit.

While Florance is full of historical landmarks and great food, it lacks outdoor adventure. So when you’re craving a scenic hike or mountain views, Lake Como is one of the first places in Italy that come to mind! 

Lake Como is about 30 minutes north of Milan, and it’s the start of the Italian Alps. From boat tours to hiking trails and plenty of delicious restaurants, it’s the perfect place to spend a weekend trip from Florence. 

Here are some of the top hiking trails around Lake Como:

• Monte Caprino – 3.0 mi (4.8 km)
• Brunate – San Maurizio – Monti di Capovico – 6.0 mi (9.6 km)
• Greenway of Lake Como – 7.5km (12.0 km) 

Don’t forget to plan a time to walk around lakeside villages, too. 

Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio are known as the ‘Golden Triangle.’ Here, you can enjoy lakefront cafes and restaurants with a view of the mountains, plus tons of boutique shopping and dreamy cobblestone streets.

My Favorite Experiences Around Florence

While I love each of the places to go on a day trip from Florence, there are also some experiences I highly recommend that aren’t ‘geographically bound.’

Here are some of my favorite experiences you can do anywhere around Florance.

✅ Tuscany In A Day

Florance is the capital of Tuscany, one of the most beautiful regions in the world. Taking a day to tour the best sights and vineyards throughout the region is something everyone should do when traveling to Italy. 

Some of the best stops on a tour of the region are Sieno, San Gimignano, Monteriggoni, Pisa, Lucca, and Montepulciano.

➡️ Book a Tour of Tuscany : Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa & Lunch at a Winery

✅ Florence Vespa Tour

One of the best things to do in and around Florence is book a Vespa Tour. I love putting this at the front of my itinerary because it lets me get a feel for the city and glimpse each neighborhood. Then I can decide which places I want to return to and spend more time later in the trip! 

You can do this on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, but seeing the city on a Vespa scooter is much more exhilarating!

➡️ Book a Vespa Tour in Florence

✅ Tuscan Cooking Class

Italy is one of the food capitals of the world, and learning how to cook authentic Tuscan cruising will give you a new appreciation for each meal and Italy and equip you with skills to impress your friends and family back home! 

You can book a pasta-making cooking class or a more contemporary Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in Florence. 

➡️ Book a Cooking Class in Florence

✅ Horseback Riding

Another one of the top experiences to book around Florence is a horseback riding tour through the Tuscan countryside. 

Typically, this kind of tour is a full-day excursion. It includes a couple of hours of exploring the countryside on horseback, lunch, wine tasting, and free time in a scenic village. 

➡️ Go Horseback Riding in San Gimignano

✅ Wine Tour

For an authentic Tuscan experience, I highly recommend visiting a couple of vineyards in Tuscany to see how they produce wine and taste it at the source. There are plenty of wine-tasting tours around Florence. 

No matter where you go, it will be worth your time and money. You’ll get to learn about the history of Tuscan wine, the wine-making process, and the price of drinks are included in the tour! 

➡️ Book a Wine Tour in Florence

How many days do you need in Florence?

You need at least 3 days in Florence to see the city’s main attractions, like the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, Piazzale Michelangelo, the Uffizi Gallery, and take a few day trips to nearby destinations.

I usually spend 2-3 days in Florence each time I visit, and after multiple trips, I still don’t feel like I’ve seen everything. 

But there is enough to see and do in Florence to keep you entertained for weeks! So if you have extra time to spare, I encourage you to spend a week in Florence to fully immerse yourself in the culture and find hidden gems around the city. 

What I’ve learned is that planning is key. If you have your transportation and day trips reserved ahead of time, you’ll set yourself up to make the most of each day in Florence.

Can you do a day trip to Lake Como from Florence?

Yes, you can do a day trip from Florence to Lake Como, but you should prepare for a long day!

Whether you travel by train or car, the journey will take over six hours round trip. Instead, you should visit Lake Como on a weekend trip from Florence . 

If you go on a day trip, book a boat tour beforehand . You can schedule a boat tour for around 11 am, after which you’ll still have time for a short hike or a walk through the village of Bellagio. 

Final Thoughts: Day Trips from Florence

Florence is one of my favorite cities in Italy, and there are endless places to visit nearby, but seeing them all in a single holiday is a little unrealistic. 

👉 PRO TIP: If I had only had time for a couple of day trips in Florence, I would prioritize a visit to Cinque Terre , and then I’d book the Tuscany Combination Tour to Siena, San Gimignano, & Pisa .  

The nice part is that no matter where you choose, there are guided tours to each destination, or you can travel by train ( here’s a complete map of every route in Italy ). And for those who want complete freedom over their schedule, you can hire a rental car and visit at your own pace! 

Also, don’t forget about the food scene in Florence. There are TONS of Michelin restaurants, which are only one-star (i.e., affordable), and delicious street food stalls everywhere!

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

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Day Trips from Florence — 15 Unforgettable Tours (2023)

Every once in a while, I like to go out on day trips from Florence for a more affordable adventure than a longer tour. Day trips eliminate the financial hassle of plane tickets, hotels and rental cars. You can experience all sorts of day trips from Florence with most of them revolving around tasty Italian cuisine and wine tasting (there are over 2,000 grape varieties in Italy). 

Since Florence is the capital of the Tuscany region , most of your day trips here will revolve around Tuscany and seeing this fascinating Italian region’s rich culture and traditions. You would describe life in Tuscany as languid and relaxed, which many tourists have come to see as the good life. Wherever you go in the region, Tuscany has an immense cultural and artistic heritage with many of its buildings being well preserved.

I will cover all the best day trips here and where you may want to look for your next adventure near Florence. While Florence is one of the most charming cities in Italy, you want to get out and explore once in a while since the nearby towns offer a great number of experiences.

Tuscany Day Trips from Florence

From Florence to Siena is about 53.25 miles. You can buy a train ticket to Siena for around $11, but I’d recommend the bus instead because Siena isn’t on the main train line. You can’t take a fast train from Florence to Siena, and you would need to take the slower regional trains, which will take 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

Siena has two types of buses that you can take to get there. You can buy the Tiemme: Rapida (fast bus) or the Ordinaria (slow bus). The fast bus takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. The Ordinaria will stop in two villages and take 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

Insider Tip: During your day trip from Florence, visit the tourist office of Siena, located in Piazza del Campo. They will give you a relatively affordable walking tour where you will learn the history, the sights, and more about the town.

Read more: 17 Day Trips from Siena – Discover Slices of Tuscan Life

Situated 42 miles from Florence, you can buy a train ticket for about $10 and arrive in this ancient city in 49 minutes. However, how long depends on the train and some take 1 hour and 1 minute to arrive. Trains to Pisa leave every 15 minutes with 46 direct trains leaving every day. I would consider it the most convenient form of travel to Pisa.

You can buy two types of train tickets to Pisa. You can either buy the Diretto, which is the one-hour train, and it will make a minimal number of stops, or you can buy the lunga percorrenza, which is also known as the long-haul train, and takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. It costs about $8 for the train, but you can upgrade to the first-class section for about $14. 

Insider Tip: Besides the Leaning Tower of Pisa, check out the Lungarni, which are the beautiful streets right next to the Arno River.

3. San Gimignano

Taking an organized tour to San Gimignano is an especially recommended choice because you can sit back and chill as you watch the Tuscan countryside , famous for its rolling hills, olive groves, and endless vineyards . It takes about one hour to reach it on a day trip from Florence to the Tuscany countryside. I would also recommend taking a car because you can stop and take photos of the stunning views along the way or stop to eat more easily than if you rode public transportation.

Insider Tip: The best places in San Gimignano are the outlying farmhouses in the countryside. From there, you can admire the original skyline of the tower-studded village. Also, check out Gelato Dondoli in the main square for the best gelato you will ever have. 

Situated 47.5 miles away, Lucca is one of the worthwhile day trips from Florence. While the train takes 20 minutes longer than driving, it brings you inside the city walls. In contrast, parking in Lucca is severely restricted, and it can pose quite a hassle. Head over to Santa Maria Novella Station in Florence to take the train. It costs $9 and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. As a side note, you can buy train tickets here, and they will remain valid for over 2 months. 

Insider Tip: Head over to the old Roman Amphitheater or where it used to be right around sunset. It’s an oval-shaped courtyard surrounded by shops and restaurants, but it looks incredible during sunset. 

5. The Val d’Orcia

You would either take this one by car or by tour because the Val d’Orcia has a lot of great sites to see along the way, and it lets you stop wherever you find interesting spots. Some of the recommended towns to see along the way include Bagno Vignoni, Montalcino, Pienza , Montepulciano , and San Quirico d’Orcia . You can visit a couple of them in a single day.

Insider Tip: Check out the valley in Val d’Orcia since it influenced several Renaissance artists. It has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Italy has 58 total).

Read more: Southern Tuscany – Best Towns, Where to Stay, and Itineraries

The 47.9-mile train journey from Florence to Arezzo takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes and averages about $23. This train service departs from Firenze S.M.N. and runs 288 trains weekly. Just beware of how the weekend and holiday schedules may vary. You can also take the road from Florence to Arezzo, which would enable you to see other towns like Cortona and Anghiari. Cortona boasts a rich history with famous Renaissance artists like Pietro di Cortona, Luca Signorelli, and Beato Angelico. Anghiari is one of the most beautiful medieval towns with a charming historical center and an abundance of craft shops. 

Insider Tip: Head over to Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici and climb the clock tower for some of the best views in Arezzo. 

Taking to the Tuscan countryside by car is the best way to go to Chianti . It’s one of those day trips from Florence that you won’t forget with its winding hills and silvery olive groves. You could also take a tour here for extra information about the sites along the way. 

Insider Tip: If you’re looking for wine here, try the Chianti Classico. It’s a red wine made only in this region of Italy. 

The easiest way to get to Fiesole is by bus using either the San Marco Square in Florence or the SMN Train Station. It takes about 20 minutes. You could even hike or bike here because of its closeness to Florence (3.7 miles).

Insider Tip: Check out the cave paths of Montececeri Park. You might check out Monte Ceceri for one of the most picturesque views of Italy. 

9. Medici Villas

You can either take a car or a tour to the north of Florence, and it takes about 30 minutes to arrive. Booking a tour can give you the history of the sites along the way, which will add to the richness of the experience. 

Insider Tip: The Medici Villas are another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is one of the best places to visit near Florence if you want to understand how the Medicis influenced European culture through their patronage of the arts. 

Read more: Medici Books – The 8 Best Books to Explore the Renaissance Tuscany

10. Certaldo

The train costs $7, the fastest trains take 43 minutes, and it covers 18 miles. Certaldo only has 14 trains going to it daily, so you need to get there on time. You can buy a ticket at Firenze S.M.N. Trains are usually the best option for direct travel to large and medium-sized cities in Italy because of issues with road traffic and parking in some cities . 

Insider Tip: Look for the medieval castle portion of Certaldo. The most remarkable building in Certaldo is Palazzo Pretorio.

Top 3 Day Tours from Florence

The best day trips from florence to places outside of tuscany, 11. bologna.

For a day trip from Florence, Bologna only takes 35 minutes by train. You will either choose the Freccia Rossa or the Italo. This is the fastest and most affordable way to get to Bologna from Florence. Trains depart here frequently because of it being a popular route. I wouldn’t recommend a car because it’s difficult and time-consuming to get parking. 

Insider Tip: Bologna earned fame from its rich culinary traditions. I would recommend Lasagne alla Bolognese (the real lasagna is green, not yellow or white), passatelli in brodo, torta di riso and polenta. The best of these restaurants will be located outside Bologna and in the Bolognese countryside away from the tourist traps. 

12. Ferrara

The train journey from Florence to Ferrara takes 1 hour and 23 minutes and covers 76 miles. You can get to Ferrara in a little over an hour on the fastest trains. Italo and Freccia Rossa operate on this route, which means you’ll travel in comfort and with room to spare if you carry luggage. It costs about $5 to take the train from Florence to Ferrara. 

Insider Tip: Local specialties in Ferrara include cured meat, crunchy bread and stuffed pasta. The crunchy bread here called “coppia ferrarese” was so iconic that Giorgio De Chirico portrayed it in the painting “The Language of the Child.”

13. Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre area includes car-free villages, so you will need to watch where you park, but this is a great way to see the city and the surroundings along the way. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes by car for day trips from Florence. One of the best places to stay in Cinque Terre with a car is Monterroso al Mare. 

Insider Tip: You may even wish to spend a night in this incredible city. Cinque Terre consists of 5 charming villages that include Monterroso al Mare, Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, and Corniglia. 

From Florence to Assisi, I would recommend the car since it takes about 2 hours to arrive covering a distance of 107 miles. You will travel on the A1 and E35 routes. You must park outside the town walls since they only let residents park in Old Town. 

Insider Tip: Assisi is rife with food, and wherever you walk, just follow your nose. Sit down at whatever restaurant smells the best.

15. Orvieto

You will arrive in Orvieto in about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car, and I’d recommend taking a car since the regional trains take over 2 hours. 

Insider Tip: Try a pigeon dish in Orvieto since that’s the local dish. All the smaller villages in Italy often have a dish associated with them.

What to Consider When Planning a Day Trip from Florence

First, plan ahead because this can make your trip more enjoyable and avoid unnecessary time wasters. Be aware of the popular attractions that may require reservations in advance. Second, consider your transportation options because there’s no wrong way to take day trips from Florence. If you want to travel more leisurely, the train might be for you. 

Third, manage your time wisely because Italy has a lot to see wherever you go. You should prioritize the must-see sites to ensure you get to the biggest things, but you may want to leave time to explore freely. Finally, pay attention to any local events and festivals that might be in the area at the time.

FAQs about Day Trips from Florence

Can you do a cinque terre trip as a day trip from florence .

You could do Cinque Terre as a day trip, but there’s a lot to see, and you may want to take your time in doing so. 

Are Rome and Milan Recommended as Day Trips from Florence?

As it turns out, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and trying to see it in a day is no easy task. For a day trip, they don’t make as much sense because Rome and Milan require more than a day to see everything. You may want multiple days to explore and enjoy yourself.

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21 Best Day Trips from Florence (+ Detailed Travel Advice)

Nestled in central Italy and well-connected as the capital of Tuscany, there is arguably nowhere better to use as a base for day trips in all of central Italy than Florence–and as you’ll see, the best day trips from Florence are incredibly diverse, perfect for a wide variety of travelers.

Whether you’re looking for a food-centered trip, a little sun and sea air, a taste of one of Italy’s largest cities, or a classic Tuscan countryside escape, we’ve got a Florence day trip here for you.

We’ve put together this guide to the best day trips from Florence based on a cumulative several months traveling in Tuscany and its surrounding region over a period of years, including one trip where we based ourselves in Florence for a solid month.

Though the bulk of this guide is structured based on the given destination’s distance from Florence, we’ve also included a few memorable countryside experiences toward the bottom and a reliable, tried-and-true option for those looking for a quick decision toward the top.

Here’s where the find the best day trips from Florence !

Table of Contents

How to Reach Your Florence Day Trip Destination

Quick decision: an epic & easy day trip from florence, day trips within 1 hour of florence, day trips within 2 hours of florence, day trips within 3 hours of florence, epic experiences outside of florence.

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While there are plenty of Florence day trip guides on the internet, many of them tend to gloss over one of the most important details: how to get there!

The bulk of these day trips from Florence can be completed by train, and the time estimates we’ve used to structure this guide are based on taking the fast train (not regional train–more on that below) to and from your destination.

In a few cases, you’ll need to take a car and/or bus to reach the destination, and we’ve noted those where applicable.

If you’d like to rent a car for the day to explore on a mini road trip, we highly recommend it (though we suggest reading over the tips in our Tuscany road trip guide before grabbing the keys). You can search for car rental prices in Florence through Discover Cars here .

Check prices for rental cars in Florence today!

The Differences Between Fast & Regional Trains in Italy

In Italy, including in Florence, you’ll find two types of trains: fast trains, for which ticket prices are flexible, and regional trains, for which they’re set.

When taking a fast train, you’ll want to book in advance, as prices can change as your day trip gets closer. Naturally, these tickets also tend to be more expensive overall than regional tickets.

Regional trains are cheaper, have fares set by the government (therefore you can simply purchase tickets as you leave for the day), stop more along the route, and are slower.

When traveling to Bologna from Florence, for example, you have the choice between taking the fast train (about 40 minutes each way) or the regional train (about 1.5 hours each way) on your day trip.

Therefore, we’ve listed Bologna as a day trip located less than one hour from Florence… but if you don’t book your ticket in advance, you may find that it’s quite expensive to take the fast train at the last minute! We recommend using Omio to search for fast train tickets (it will search tickets and compare prices both for Trenitalia, Italy’s national train company, and Italo, a private company that offers some routes, as well as bus routes).

While some of these day trips from Florence are easy to use the regional trains for and generally don’t require train tickets to be purchased in advance (like Pisa), others (like Rome) require a fast train ticket to even be feasible. 

If you have your heart set on a particular day trip, we recommend researching exact train times and prices as soon as possible to get a realistic look at what your day will look like.

Check fast train ticket prices for your day trips from Florence today!

Does choosing between 21 day trips from Florence feel a bit overwhelming? Want to make a quick, easy, reliable choice that is bound to be unforgettable?

Enter this full Tuscany day trip , which covers a visit to Siena, a wine tasting in the Chianti countryside, and a trip to the beautiful village of San Gimignano, all in one day!

This is a one-stop-shop day trip from Florence, and includes a little bit of everything: a Tuscan city, some delicious local food and wine, and a trip to a small village with incredible views of the rolling hills of Tuscany, making it an easy choice for those looking for a small taste of several different things that Tuscany has to offer.

With over 900 near-perfect reviews on Walks of Italy alone, this day trip is a tried-and-true crowd pleaser–don’t forget to save room after lunch for some of the best gelato in Italy from Gelateria Dondoli in San Gimignano!

Book this full Tuscany day trip from Florence today!

Perhaps the most iconic of all these Florence day trips, heading to the Leaning Tower of Pisa to snap cheesy-but-fun selfies while holding up the tower is on plenty of Tuscany bucket lists.

Truthfully, Pisa is really a better half-day trip than full day trip, and for that reason we recommend combining it with Lucca–but if you’re the type to savor a destination, you may like to do it as a standalone trip!

A guided tour isn’t really necessary here, though if you prefer one, this is a great option .

Pisa is an easy regional train ride away from Florence, but if you want to climb the tower, we recommend pre-booking tickets in advance to ensure you get a chance to head to the top. Once you finish up at the tower, be sure to spend some time in the rest of the complex visiting the stunning Pisa Cathedral and baptistery!

Booking your Pisa Complex skip-the-line tickets OR your full Pisa day trip now!

For a day trip from Florence that’s not as well-established on the tourist circuit as somewhere like Pisa (though it is far from unknown), head to the beautiful Tuscan city of Arezzo.

Located less than an hour south of Florence by train, Arezzo is easy to reach and easy to enjoy, boasting gorgeous churches, beautiful views over the Tuscan countryside, and plenty to do.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the Medici Fortress, pay a visit to the archaeological museum (complete with the remains of a Roman amphitheatre), admire the remarkable frescoes in the Church of San Francesco, and climb to the top of the clock tower at the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici for some incredible views.

Arezzo is also known for its antiquing, so if you’d like to do a little shopping for antiques during your trip to Tuscany, this is the place to do it!

As the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, Bologna is known primarily for its absolutely phenomenal food–and if your plan for one of your day trips from Florence is simply to eat your heart out, this is the place to do it!

The Emilia-Romagna region is the original birthplace of many of the dishes that are synonymous with Italian food abroad, though most people who visit agree that the original versions are far tastier.

Parmigiano-reggiano, traditional balsamic vinegar, mortadella (aka bologna), and tagliatelle al ragu (aka spaghetti bolognese) are just a few of the delicacies worth sampling on a day trip to Bologna.

In between meals, consider heading to the top of Asinelli Tower for some amazing views of the city, hunting down Bologna’s hidden canals, visiting the anatomical theatre and library of Archiginnasio, and strolling through Bologna’s markets.

Prefer to focus your day trip solely on food and to track down some of Emilia-Romagna’s delicacies at their source? 

This day trip from Florence includes a visit to a parmigiano-reggiano storehouse (visiting one of these is still one of our favorite travel experiences in Italy!), a trip to a small farm that produces traditional balsamic vinegar, and a visit to Bologna… with a chance to eat just about everywhere along the way.

Book your food tour of Emilia-Romagna from Florence today!

Located high above Florence in the Tuscan countryside, Fiesole is unique among these Florence day trips in that it’s only located an hour from Florence… on foot!

That’s right, an hour’s hike is one of the most popular ways to visit Fiesole from Florence–but don’t worry, for those less inclined, you can easily take a quick bus ride up as well.

Once you’re in Fiesole (and manage to tear your eyes away from the stunning views of Florence below), be sure to visit the local Roman ruins (including an amphitheatre), check out the incredible Monastery of San Francesco, the remains of walls left behind by the Etruscans, and of course Fiesole’s beautiful cathedral.

As the second-largest city in Tuscany, Siena was once the military rival of Florence, and today is known for its incredible beauty (especially its Duomo, which is arguably even prettier than Florence’s) and its biannual Palio di Siena horse race.

On a day trip to Siena, don’t miss an opportunity to admire Siena from above (our favorite angle is from the top of the Opera della Metropolitana), to tour the Duomo (if you can fit in the behind-the-scenes rooftop tour, absolutely do), visit the Piazza di Campo, and sit down for a leisurely and delicious lunch–we can heartily recommend Antica Trattoria Papei if you’re looking for a place to eat.

Siena can easily be reached from Florence by train, car, or bus.

Often combined with Pisa for a two-destinations-in-one day tour from Florence, Lucca is a laid-back and beautiful Tuscan town that is perfect for walking around and enjoying the ambiance of Tuscany without skipping from one sight to the next.

Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll (or bike) along the top of Lucca’s medieval fortified town walls–it’s the only city in Tuscany where you can walk the entire route!

Be sure to also stop by the beautiful oval Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, which began life as a Roman amphitheater, climb the Guinigi Tower, and duck into at least a couple of Lucca’s one hundred (no exaggeration) churches.

Depending on the timing of your visit, you may also be able to experience a local festival !

Prefer to take a guided tour to Lucca? This fun tour will show you the best of both Pisa and Lucca in one day!

In many ways, Florence and Verona have lots in common: they’re both beautiful Italian cities set on rivers, both have a plethora of art and history to explore, and both have delicious cuisines.

In the details, though, they are very different: the food is different, the architecture is different, the history is different–and yet, both Verona and Florence rank among our favorite cities in Italy.

Come to Verona for a chance to tour a gorgeous Roman arena in the center of town, for stunning views from Castel San Pietro, visit the beautiful Piazza delle Erbe, and, perhaps most famously, indulge in a little bit of Romeo and Juliet tourism in the hometown of these legendary star-crossed lovers.

San Gimignano

Easily one of the most popular day trips from Florence, San Gimignano is known for its soaring towers, beautiful views, prime location in Tuscany (once upon a time, it sat along a Roman trading route, enriching the town), and its delicious gelato–popular Gelateria Dondoli is known as some of the best gelato in all of Italy!

Though you can’t take a train directly to San Gimignano, you can travel there independently by car or bus.

However, San Gimignano is easy to combine with a trip to the Chianti countryside and wine tasting, making it an excellent town to experience as part of a guided day tour from Florence!

This classic Tuscany day trip is an excellent option for getting a taste of San Gimignano!

Ah, Rome: I must admit that I’m a bit biased in that I’m hesitant to recommend Rome as a Florence day trip, simply because I love it so much that I have a hard time seeing how one day could be enough.

However, all trips to Italy require hard choices about where to go and where to skip, and if you are hoping to taste the Eternal City but don’t have longer than a day to spend there, it’s absolutely worth going!

With one day in Rome, you can pay a visit to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill, stroll past the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, briefly visit Vatican City, admire the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, and visit Campo de’ Fiori.

We have a full recommended one day in Rome itinerary here.

The only realistic way to take a day trip to Rome from Florence is via the fast train, which takes 1.5 hours vs more than 3 hours each way on the regional train, so if you have your heart set on this day trip, be sure to reserve your tickets in advance!

Purchase train tickets for your day trip to Rome today!

Val d’Orcia + Surrounding Villages

The rolling hills and endless fields of the Val d’Orcia are often considered the most beautiful place in Tuscany–and with good reason.

This part of Tuscany is truly a feast for the eyes, and exactly where to come if you are looking for the idyllic Tuscan countryside of movies and postcards.

Combine stunning countryside with adorable Tuscan villages and wine tasting in this epic day trip , which includes visits to the towns of Pienza , Montalcino, and Montepulciano (which happens to be one of my favorite villages in Tuscany).

If you would rather avoid taking a guided tour, you certainly can–but you’ll definitely need to rent a car to effectively make the trip happen (and have someone willing to forgo the wine and act as your group’s designated driver!).

Book your day trip to Val d’Orcia today!

Dating back to the Etruscans and far less crowded than many of these best day trips from Florence, Volterra is a delightful Tuscan hilltop town with a plethora of interesting sites and history.

Pay a visit to the Piazza dei Priori, stroll through remaining Etruscan walls and gates, check out the city’s Roman ruins, and visit the beautiful local cathedral and baptistery.

Twilight fans will recognize Volterra as the seat of power of the Volturi, though if you’re hunting down filming locations, you’re in the wrong place: Montepulciano actually stood in for Volterra in the films.

Unlike most of these Florence day trips, Volterra is not reachable directly by train. While driving is the easiest way to reach Volterra, you can also transfer from a train to a bus and get to Volterra in about 2.5 hours each way.

Shop rental cars for your Volterra day trip today!

Italy’s fashion capital is located less than 2 hours from Florence by train, making it a simple and fun day trip that will give you a taste of an Italian city that feels very different from Florence.

Milan’s major sights, like its famous Duomo (don’t forget to check out the rooftop–it’s absolutely fabulous), the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Castello Sforzesco, and the La Scala Opera House are all within a comfortable walk of each other, making Milan an excellent place to see over the course of a day.

If you’d like to see The Last Supper, you will absolutely need to plan in advance: we recommend booking a tour like this if you’d like to see Da Vinci’s famous painting on your trip to Milan.

Book your visit to the The Last Supper now!

Located just barely over 2 hours from Florence by train, Orvieto is a dream of a hilltop town in the Italian region of Umbria, offering gorgeous views, a beautiful town center, plenty of interesting things to do, and some unique local foods definitely worth trying (starting with pigeon–yes pigeon–and Orvieto Classico wine).

While you’re in Orvieto, definitely stop by the Duomo (including the fascinating Cappella di San Brizio inside), step inside St. Patrick’s Well, visit the Orvieto underground, tour the Etruscan necropolis, and climb the Torre del Moro for beautiful views over the city.

As the birthplace of Saint Francis, one of the patron saints of Italy, Assisi is an enormously popular Florence day trip for Catholic travelers–but even if you’re not a practicing Catholic, the history and beauty of Assisi is sure to draw you in.

No trip to Assisi could be complete without a visit to the UNESCO-recognized St. Francis Basilica–but once you wrap up there, be sure to also check out Assisi’s Roman Forum, the Rocca Maggiore fort, the Roman Temple of Minerva located in the center of town, and the Cathedral of San Rufino.

While Assisi is a meaningful and interesting Florence day trip, it’s also a bit long, with most journeys take well over 2 hours each way–so be prepared for a long day!

This Assisi day trip takes care of transportation concerns and also includes a stop in beautiful Cortona!

Cinque Terre

There’s no doubt that Cinque Terre is one of the most sought-after day trips from Florence: these delightful Ligurian fishing villages have captured hearts around the world, and it’s no surprise–they’re truly incredibly beautiful.

However, as a day trip from Florence, they’re a bit of a stretch to get to, requiring you to time the fast trains, spend lots of your day in transition, and dedicate a huge amount of energy to logistics on what is already a very full day. 

We go into detail on that in this post , so I won’t repeat myself too much here, but I will say that we absolutely recommend booking an organized tour to Cinque Terre if you want to accomplish a visit as a day trip from Florence.

Your day will be much simpler for it, and you’ll be able to spend all of your energy focused on gorgeous views and tasty seafood instead of fretting about logistics.

Book your  day trip to Cinque Terre from Florence  today!

Rather than focus on a specific town or city, these best day trips from Florence are all about having unforgettable experiences in Tuscany–including some of our favorite Tuscany travel experiences of all time!

One of our all-time favorite experiences in Tuscany is taking a day trip to the countryside via Vespa.

There’s truly nothing like the feeling of zipping along country lanes and admiring passing villas, olive orchards, and vineyards from the back of a Vespa.

This tour will take you up to San Miniato al Monte for some truly incredible views of Florence before a ride through the countryside, and is a completely phenomenal experience, and if you’re looking for an idyllic day trip in Tuscany, you can’t go wrong with this one!

Book your vintage Vespa day tour from Florence now!

Tuscan Cooking Class

Want to try your hand at some Tuscan cooking?

Taking a cooking class in Tuscany is one of the most popular things to do when visiting the region, but while there are plenty of classes you can take within Florence, we personally think cooking in a farmhouse in the countryside is far more idyllic!

This cooking class is an all-day affair at a Tuscan farmhouse, includes transportation to and from Florence, and is an excellent way to combine a day outside the city while sampling plenty of delicious food (and learning how to replicate it at home!).

We adored this Tuscan cooking class and can highly recommend it!

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in Tuscany is a special experience: trails wind through vineyards, past orchards and farmhouses, and along small country lanes.

Admiring the views of the Tuscan countryside is, of course, one of the more popular things to do on a day trip from Florence, wherever you choose to go, and it’s even more special while on horseback.

This tour combines horseback riding with a wine tour, making it the perfect Tuscany day trip combination!

Schedule your horseback ride in Tuscany now!

Wine Tour + Tasting

Prefer to skip the cities and focus solely on delightful Tuscan wine?

This popular Chianti day trip will take you right to two different vineyards, where you will tour their wine cellars, learn a bit about the wine process, and then move right on to tasting the local wines.

A trip to the Chianti countryside is a quick-and-easy option when looking for day trips from Florence that will offer you a chance to see the Tuscan countryside, enjoy some of the local delicacies, and not have to dedicate too much time away from the city.

Book your Chianti wine tour today!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “21 Best Day Trips from Florence (+ Detailed Travel Advice)”

Thanks for an interesting read. Just wondering why you excluded Venice from the list as a train takes 2 hours and 5 minutes from Florence?

A few reasons, starting with the fact that if I included all possible day trips from Florence here, this already giant post would be the size of a book, lol.

Another reason is that while I adore Venice, I’m not blind to the fact that it’s a bit controversial with many visitors and that plenty of people leave unsatisfied due to the crowds and hassle of getting in and out of the city (from the train station, it’s still a long walk or crowded waterbus ride to the main sights). I don’t want to recommend something that I think has a high chance of leaving people disappointed with a city as special as Venice, which a day trip that involves 4+ hours on a train is likely to do.

I would never tell someone not to go if that’s what they want or have planned, but it doesn’t make my list of top day trip choices from Florence, either. 🙂

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7 of the best day trips from Florence

Apr 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Take a day trip from Florence into the wider region of Tuscany and beyond © FilippoBacci / Getty Images

Branching out from the red cupola of the Duomo , the stone-built alleys of Florence ’s historic core connect some of the world’s most precious examples of Renaissance art and architecture.

It’s easy to see why millions visit the UNESCO-inscribed capital of Tuscany every year. This walkable city of fewer than 400,000 people has been a European center of culture since the Middle Ages and much of its heritage has survived intact to this day. Florence’s global fame, however, has long overshadowed the many sights in its surroundings, keeping tourists concentrated in and around a limited number of well-known destinations.

Heavily publicized attractions such as the Uffizi museum , Michelangelo’s David inside the Galleria dell’Accademia and the 14th-century Ponte Vecchio tend to grab all the attention. But you shouldn't spend all your time in Tuscany standing in line for fear of missing out. Many surprising and often neglected towns await beyond Florence’s borders.

Here is our pick of the best day trips from Florence, nearly all of which is reachable on public transport.

Need more inspiration for where to go in Italy? Here's our guide to the country's top experiences

1. Visit the treasured cathedral of Lucca

Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes by train

Enclosed within 12m-high (39ft) defensive walls, historic Lucca is one of Tuscany’s most charming medieval centers. Lucca grew out of its privileged position on the Via Francigena pilgrim route and is known as the city of 100 churches. The greatest of them all is the Romanesque Cattedrale di San Martino , where you’ll find Italy’s oldest wood carving, the Volto Santo crucifix. The cathedral is located a short distance from the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, the elliptical square built on a former Roman amphitheater and lined with restaurant terraces and aperitivo spots.

Lucca isn’t just historic sights though. From spring and throughout the summer many festivals take place within the city’s grass-covered walls, peaking with the Lucca Summer Festival that fills the cobbled alleys with the music of international artists every July.

How to get to Lucca from Florence:  Hourly trains depart from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station, taking you right by the gate of Porta San Pietro that leads into the inner city.

2. Cycle around Lago Trasimeno

Travel time: 1 hour 35 minutes by train

Italy’s fourth-largest lake sits just outside Tuscany’s borders, in the province of Perugia , and is surrounded by green hills and sleepy towns. From Castiglione del Lago, the main settlement in the Trasimeno area , you can rent a bike (or e-bike) at Cicli Valentini and join the 60km (37-mile) bike path that loops around the lake and through quaint hamlets, olive groves and Umbrian farmhouses.

Between April and September, you can cut the trip short by taking the ferry that runs from Passignano back to Castiglione del Lago via Isola Maggiore, one of the lake’s three islands, stopping to admire its 19th-century castle, built by the Guglielmi, Marquis of Vulci and Civitavecchia.

How to get to Lago Trasimeno from Florence:  A regional train travels from Florence to Castiglione del Lago in approximately 1½ hours. From there, return to Florence or continue to Rome.

3. Stroll through Pistoia’s Romanesque buildings

Travel time: 35 minutes by train

This attractive historic town is off most international tourists’ routes and continues to maintain a local feel. Besides its long-standing markets – one held daily in Piazza della Sala, the other on Wednesdays and Saturdays in Piazza del Duomo – Pistoia ’s main attraction is its impressive collection of marble-clad Romanesque buildings, from the striped 13th-century Chiesa di San Giovanni Fuorcivitas to the stately Cattedrale di San Zeno , the city’s main church.

Pistoia has been known as a center of musical culture since the 15th century and keeps the tradition alive by hosting Tuscany’s most important blues festival, the Pistoia Blues , every July.

How to get to Pistoia from Florence:  A quick 35-minute train ride separates Florence from Pistoia. The city center is easily reached on foot from the station.

4. Taste the flavors of Emilia-Romagna

Travel time: 40 minutes by train

Travel beyond Tuscany’s northern border and you’ll find a land of tortellini , cappellacci , lambrusco , parmigiano and many more traditional foods of Emilia-Romagna waiting to be tasted. The region stretches from the Adriatic Coast all the way to Liguria and has been historically divided – locals will make sure you know that Emilia and Romagna are not the same thing at every opportunity, even though they share the same regional border. Despite divisions – historical, linguistic and culinary – you can’t really go wrong when eating your way through the region. Emilia-Romagna’s capital, Bologna , is a vibrant city with a large student population and endless opportunities to try the region’s many culinary highlights.

How to get to Bologna from Florence:  High-speed trains will whizz you from Florence to Bologna in just 40 minutes.

5. Hunt for antiques in Arezzo’s Fiera Antiquaria

Travel time: 40 minutes or 1 hour 30 minutes by train

It’s always a good time to visit the art city of Arezzo – home to an Etruscan settlement in its early days and the birthplace of one of Tuscany's most famous Renaissance architects, Giorgio Vasari – but go on the first Sunday of the month or the Saturday before that, and you can experience the Fiera Antiquaria , Italy’s largest antique market. More than 500 vendors, selling everything from vintage furniture to original art, unfold their wares on the sloping cobbles of Piazza Grande, against the beautiful backdrop of Palazzo delle Logge , designed by Vasari himself for the Medici family.

How to get to Arezzo from Florence:  High-speed trains run from Florence to Arezzo in just 30 minutes, while slower (and cheaper) regional trains take under 1½ hours.

6. Step into the ruins of San Galgano, and return via Montalcino

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes by car

Rising from the cypress-dotted countryside of central Tuscany, the Abbazia di San Galgano is one of the region’s most striking pieces of religious architecture, standing roofless a short drive from Siena and a couple of hours from Florence through twisting secondary roads. The majestic structure was built by Cistercian monks over the course of the 13th century and abandoned two centuries later. In 1786 lightning struck San Galgano’s bell tower, which collapsed on the roof, destroying it. The stone cathedral has stood in this hilly corner of the region ever since, offering unmatched photo opportunities to modern-day visitors.

How to get to San Galgano from Florence:  Given the abbey’s isolated location you will need to drive to get there. Extend the trip to nearby Montalcino for a tasting session of the famed Brunello, either in the enoteca found inside the town’s fortress or one of the many wineries nearby.

7. Discover Siena’s artistic heritage

Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes by bus

A single day might not be enough to see all that Florence’s historic rival has to offer, but a few hours in Siena will get you a glimpse of the riches acquired by the medieval city-state in its heyday. Starting from the semicircular Piazza del Campo – the square where the yearly Palio horse race is held – enter the Palazzo Pubblico to visit the Museo Civico and see works by some of the greatest Sienese artists of the Middle Ages.

Among them are the 14th-century frescoes Allegory of Good Government and Allegory of Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, meant to inspire the government working in the municipal palace to make good decisions or face the decline of society. Be sure to step into the nearby Duomo as well to admire the spectacular floor mosaic, made of 56 panels produced between the 14th and 19th centuries by up to 40 different artists.

How to get to Siena from Florence:  Buses run between Florence and Siena in a little over an hour, while trains are slightly slower, taking 1½ hours. Be aware that not all trains are direct and you may have to switch in Empoli.

If you have more time

Florence is well connected to most major Italian cities through high-speed rail, and in just a few hours you can be in Rome , Milan or even Naples . Make sure to book your tickets ahead of time to get the best prices.

If you have a car and are looking to spend some time outdoors, the Parco Nazionale Foreste Casentinesi and Parco Regionale delle Alpi Apuane offer many excellent hiking opportunities. In autumn, keep an eye out for food and wine festivals, such as the truffle fair of San Miniato, the Expo del Chianti Classico in Greve in Chianti, or the chestnut festival in Marradi.

This article was first published June 2012 and updated April 2024

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Home » Europe » Italy » The 12 Most Enchanting Day Trips from Florence

The 12 Most Enchanting Day Trips from Florence

Florence is the enchanting capital of the stunning region of Tuscany. It’s the home of classical masterpieces such as the Duomo and Michelangelo’s “David”. It’s the true embodiment of all things Tuscan and visiting can be a mesmerising and magical experience of revelatory proportions! It sounds dramatic but Florence is all about drama. Think, Da Vinci Code, Assasin’s Creed and just generally epic ancient shit!

As soon as you’ve had your fill of this charming city, you will want to explore what’s beyond. Florence is, after all, ideally located as a base to cover most of the rest of Tuscany and even further.

Florence entices you to hop on a bus or train and go and explore central Italy with charming towns like Siena in the south, Bologna in the north and Pisa and Lucca in the west. So here are our top picks of the most enchanting day trips from Florence.

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Getting Around Florence and Beyond

 half-day trips from florence, full day trips from florence, final thoughts.

Florence was made for walking, so the best way to get around is by foot. A comfortable pair of shoes or boots will go a long way (literally) when you’re in Florence. Public transport is convenient too, so you shouldn’t have any issue travelling within the city or beyond. There’s so much to see in Florence you’ll love wandering its quaint streets on your trip around Italy .

• Bicycle – Rent a bike for a Florentine adventure. Rates:  2€ (1 hr), 5€ (5 hrs), 10€ ( 1 day).
• Bus/tram – Efficient and widely used. Buy tickets before boarding the bus and validate them. One-way tickets cost 1.50€. The monthly travel pass (10-ticket) costs 14€.
• Train – Choose between a fast train and a regional one. Research and book online in advance.
• Car rental – A big NOPE. Florence is a small city and not made for cars. However, to travel out of the city, you can rent a car.
• Taxi – Another nope. Taxis are expensive.

Some additional tips:

• Know where the bus/ train station is – If you plan on taking a few day trips, select a convenient location in Florence to stay for easy access to transport. Luckily, Florence is one of the best places to stay in Italy for exploring the rest of the countyr.
• Memorise train/bus schedules – Just kidding! But do know the times of your bus or train to be back at the station. Sucks to be stranded somewhere overnight.
• Validate your ticket before boarding – Yes, you have to make sure of this little activity too. Validate your tickets in little boxes near the train/bus platforms. It helps if you don’t fancy being thrown off the train in the middle of a Tuscan field. This is true all around Italy when using the train.

Here are our favorite places that you can cover as a half-day trip from Florence that are just under an hour away from the city. Short and sweet, these trips are handy if you don’t have enough time to explore outside of Florence.

Monti del Chianti

When you’re planning day trips from Florence, a quick escape to one of the most picturesque winemaking regions in the world is a must. Chianti is a popular area in Tuscany and with good reason. There is an epic selection of wines and delicious food, all with the backdrop of stunning Tuscan landscapes. It’s a quintessential trip to add to your Florence itinerary .

Drive through Chianti and see some gorgeous scenery along the winding roads. The region has olive groves, chestnut & oak tree forests, quaint farmhouses, stone castles, Renaissance villas, and beautiful Romanesque rural churches. It’s best if you have a car or bicycle to explore the region to its fullest. Greve is the main town and heart of Chianti. Visit the historic central square and join a cycling tour, if time permits.

A trip to a wine region is not complete with some wine-tasting, amirite? Grapes from the vineyards here are used to produce famous red wines such as Chianti and Chianti Classico. Drop by some of the restaurants and sample some delicious Tuscan cuisine along with the reds. Just make sure you’ve got a designated driver or don’t miss the bus!

How to get there:  Take a bus from Florence to Chianti. Takes 1 hour.

Suggested Trip: Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour

San Casciano Val di Pesa

Not a fan of crowds? Head to San Casciano in Val di Pesa! This lovely medieval village is at the start of the Chianti region and a hub for wine and olive oil. The rolling vineyard-covered hills offer a stunning backdrop to the serenity of San Casciano Val di Pesa.

San Casciano is an easy half-day trip out of Florence, so great if you’re limited on time. It’s a typical charming Italian town. Eat, drink, shop and soak in the ambience and history. There’s a market on Mondays where you can check out some of the amazing local products.

There are also several small castles and churches to explore in the nearby villages. Visit the church of Santa Cecilia, the Romanesque churches of San Giovanni and San Pancrazio, as well as the Santo Stefano a Campoli. The Giuliano Ghelli Museum inside the Church of Santa Maria del Gesù is also worth a visit. This museum has a collection of historical art, relics and artefacts from the 7th century BC.

How to get there: From Porta Romano station, take a Busitalia bus to San Casciano in Val di Pesa. Takes around 40 min.

Pisa is a pretty good day trip from Florence for your Instagram feed! Who doesn’t want that cheesy and touristy photo holding up the Leaning Tower? The city of Pisa is just over an hour away and is mainly famous for its iconic tower. It’s one of the most iconic places to visit in Italy and it’s one of those places you just have to experience.

Take a leisurely walk along the Arno River and over its bridges into the heart of Pisa. Head on towards the Piazza del Miracoli – the “Square of Miracles”. This piazza is a collection of famous historical monuments, including the Cathedral of Pisa, the Baptistery, the Camposanto Monumentale, and the Sinopie Museum. There are many notable and priceless artwork, sculptures, mosaics, and paintings displayed in the museum.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is also part of the Square. A UNESCO World Heritage monument, the Tower was meant to be a bell tower for the Cathedral of Pisa. It is eight stories tall and its notable tilt began as soon as it was being constructed in 1173 (It’s actually been slowly straightening up !). Climb up the Leaning Tower for an exhilarating experience! The views of the Square below are worth it. A limited number of people are allowed up at a time, so don’t forget to book your ticket online beforehand.

How to get there: Take a train from Santa Maria Novella, Florence to Pisa Centrale Station. Takes 1 hour.

Suggested Trip: Pisa afternoon tour with Leaning Tower Ticket

Castles, churches, Renaissance villas, olive groves and the great Italian countryside – all are easily doable on any of these full-day trips from Florence. Add a few of these to your itinerary to get that extra kick from your Italy backpacking trip !

If you’re a foodie, you’ll be sure to absolutely froth Bologna. Get a taste (get it) of the city with this perfect day trip from Florence. Bologna has some of Italy’s most incredible restaurants. Treat yourself to Bolognese specialities at the gourmet quarter Quadilatero which is jam-packed with food stalls, delis and cafes. Famous Italian food such as prosciutto, parmigiano-reggiano, balsamic vinegar, mortadella and the popular Bolognese tortellini are aplenty here. Satisfy your sweet tooth with handmade chocolate and ice cream. A food-tasting tour is a great way to be sure to sample all the best Bologna has to offer.

Bologna has some incredible medieval architectural delights. In Piazza Maggiore, in the heart of the city, is the iconic duo of leaning towers – the Torre Degli Asinelli. Climb the 498-steps up the Asinelli tower. The stunning views of the city you get from the top are well worth the effort, you can also burn off some of that food!  The tower only lets in a few people up at a time, so we suggest booking a spot in advance . If you don’t fancy the cardio, visit the Basilica of San Petronio, which has a lift to go up and also offers nice views of the city.

How to get there: From Florence, take the high-speed train to Bologna Centrale station. Takes around 40 min.

Cinque Terre

You’ve seen it in pictures and it’s on your travel bucket list. The colourful houses perched on rugged hills and steep cliffs, overlooking the sea below with fishing boats parked along the harbours. Yep, we’ve all seen and admired Cinque Terre and now it’s time to explore it on the perfect day trip from Florence.

Cinque Terre doesn’t have many of the usual touristy sights like churches, castles or museums. Instead, Cinque Terre gives you some of the most amazing and iconic views of Italy. The region is a National Park and designated UNESCO Heritage Site. Five picturesque villages perched on the hillsides over the Ligurian Sea make up Cinque Terre.

Visit the charming village of Manarola. Have some freshly-caught seafood. In December-January, thousands of lamps are lit in what is arguably Italy’s largest Christmas illumination. If you’re visiting during the Christmas holidays, don’t miss the event! It’s one of the best times to visit Italy .

Take scenic boat rides to the other four villages, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Monterosso and Vernazza. Stroll through their charming cobbled streets and snap those stunning seafront views for the ‘gram. Don’t forget to dip your toes in the sea and white sand at one of the many beaches!

How to get there: From Florence SMN station, take a Regionale train to La Spezia. Then switch to 5 Terre Express train which goes to all five villages. Takes two hours. Get a Cinque Terre Train Card if you plan to visit all villages. Alternatively, you can take a (much slower) ferry/boat ride to the villages.

Suggested Trip: Cinque Terre Full Day Trip and Cinque Terre Optional Hike & Lunch

Fiesole is a cute town sat on a picturesque hillside overlooking Florence. It is the perfect break from the city – with its olive groves, beautiful gardens, wonderful Renaissance-style villas, and lush green countryside.

Fiesole was a popular summer retreat in the 14 th century for rich Florentines, and it remains to be the wealthiest suburb of Florence. So don’t be surprised to see eye-watering price tags in the boutiques in town. Head on to Piazza Mino, the main town square, after your round of window-shopping. Have some gelato and admire the classic Tuscan architecture of the town along its cobbled streets.

Fiesole is an ancient town, with its earliest settlements dating back to the 9th century BC. For a dose of history and culture, visit the Bandini Museum which houses some beautiful Florentine paintings from the 12th-14th centuries. The Etruscan-Roman Archaeological area is super interesting to visit. Check out the well-preserved remains of the Roman baths and the amphitheatre, which still hosts plays and gigs in summer. Also, check out the fascinating collection of Roman artefacts and ceramics.

How to get there: From Piazza San Marco take bus #7 to Fiesole. Or take a regional train to Fiesole-Caldine. Takes 1/2 an hour.

If you want to see some stunning Gothic architecture, extraordinary art and indulge in delicious Tuscan cuisine, be sure to hop on the bus or train to Siena. There’s plenty to marvel at in this charming hillside town. Siena is one of the more popular towns around the Tuscany region and is perfect for a day trip out of Florence.

The Piazza del Campo, the heart of the town, is where all the hustle-bustle of the city happens. Visit the Duomo, which is a dramatic Gothic cathedral with a baptistry, museum, and ancient crypt. The church is adorned with statues and reliefs by famed artist Giovanni Pisano. The Duomo complex is filled with precious art, stained glass, sculptures, and carvings. Then visit the Museo Civico, which houses stunning medieval frescoes. Most of the buildings were made with Siena’s characteristic red clay.

Walk the vibrant medieval streets of Siena. There are many boutique crafts shops, restaurants and pastry shops. Grab a coffee and some local delicacies and soak it all in. Later on, climb the Porto del Cielo for amazing views and great photo opportunities over town.  

How to get there: Take a regional train or bus from Florence to Siena. Takes one hour.

Suggested Trip: From Florence to Siena, Gimignano and Monteriggioni Tour

San Gimignano

San Gimignano is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Italy, come on guys, save some for everyone else! Also known as the Town of Fine Towers, San Gimignano is a walled town with fourteen towers rising against the skyline.

The combination of the rich history and culture with the magical rural setting is incredible. In short, it’s a pretty epic day trip from Florence. San Gimignano is aptly named nicknamed Medieval Manhattan. Stroll through the medieval streets and explore the historical centre of the town and discover why.

Visit Collegiata, the Romanesque cathedral and admire the many medieval frescoes housed within. History and art lovers will also love Palazzo Communale, home to the town museum and art gallery. There are many beautiful artworks to browse.

Be sure to climb the palazzo’s tower for spectacular views of the town and countryside. If you’re up for something freaky, do check out the Torture Museum , which holds an unusual collection of medieval torture instruments.

San Gimignano is known to be the birthplace of a high-quality white wine ‘Vermaccia’. There’s a local tasting and documentation centre for wine and local produce that you simply should not miss!

How to get there:  Take a train or bus from Florence to Poggibonsi. Then take another bus to San Gimignano. Takes one and a half hours.

Suggested Trip: San Gimignano, Siena & Pisa from Florence

Lucca is best known for its old-world charm – its cobblestone streets and well-preserved Renaissance walls around the city are delightful. The walls are pedestrianised so you can enjoy bike rides, a casual stroll, or simply relax after a day of sightseeing. If you love to explore places on foot, then Lucca is your ideal day trip from Florence.

Walk through the maze of cobbled streets and narrow lanes of the old town towards the beautiful Duomo. The Lucca Cathedral is an impressive structure that dominates the town. Move on towards the Piazza Del Anfiteatro, the stunning yellow town square that was once an ancient amphitheatre. Stop by one of the many outdoor restaurants and cafes and have a traditional al-fresco lunch with a glass of tasty local wine. Lucca is known for its rustic cuisine and olive oil, so you won’t be disappointed.

Lucca has Several more attractions to soak in. The Basilica Di San Michele in Foro and the Basilica of San Frediano, both have unique front facades and stunning stonework. Historical towers like the Guinigi Tower (don’t miss climbing it!) and Torre Delle Ore are also worth calling by.

If you’re looking to extend your stay in Lucca check out this lovely B&B that serves breakfast in a garden. Or try this charming B&B near the medieval city walls.

How to get there: From Santa Maria Novella, Florence, take a regional train to Lucca Station. Takes an hour and a half.

Cortona has an alluring old-world charm and is one of the classic and most loved hilltop towns of Tuscany. Cortona offers spectacular panoramic views of the valleys and Lake Trasimeno below with its setting perched atop a towering hill. Most of the scenes in the 2003 movie “Under the Tuscan Sun” were shot in Cortona and it’s easy to see why. Now you have the perfect excuse to ride out of Florence for a relaxed day trip to Cortona!

Cortona is enclosed by medieval stone walls and has many interesting places to explore. Visit the Diocesan Museum, which features paintings by some classic Italian artists. The Etruscan Academy Museum houses a collection of bronze and ceramic artefacts from many of the ancient archaeological sites in the city. Walk up the hill to visit the Girifalco Fortress and the beautiful Santa Margherita Sanctuary.

Many small artisan shops line the main streets of Cortona, where you can get authentic local handmade crafts as souvenirs. Tuscan food here is incredible : try the Ribollita, a tasty bread soup, and Pici, a traditional pasta dish.

How to get there: From Firenze SMN, Florence, take a train to Camucia station, Cortona. Takes an hour and a half.

Suggested Trip:   Assisi and Cortona Day Trip from Florence

Pistoia is a treasure trove of Romanesque and Renaissance art and architecture. It’s the “city of enchanted stone”. Located halfway between Florence and Lucca, this small city is like a Roman-era town trapped in time. It is not your typical tourist destination so you’ll see fewer crowds, making it easy to enjoy your every minute there.

Pistoia is an exciting day trip from Florence and was voted as the Italian Capital of Culture in 2017. Start with a visit to the Piazza Duomo, the town square and heart of the city. The Romanesque Cathedral is stunning, housing a magnificent silver altar. Climb the 200 steps up the bell tower and enjoy panoramic views of Pistoia. Check out the Bishops Palace, the unforgettable Gothic Baptistry, and Palazzo Pretorio’s frescoed courtyard.

Stroll along the streets of Pistoia and stop at Piazza Della Sala for lunch or aperitivo (starter drinks). The square is bustling with activity with several restaurants and cafes. Grab a bite of “Necci”, a local sweet dessert made with chestnut flour. Or, try local Tuscan food such as bistecca alla fiorentina and ribollita soup.

Pistoia is definitely worth a longer look, so do plan to stay back a day or two. Try this family-friendly guesthouse that also offers a pool. Or check out this cosy B&B with a buffet breakfast.

How to get there: From Firenze S.M.N Florence, take a train to Pistoia. Takes around 40 min.

Val d’Orcia

Val d’Orcia is a picturesque valley in the south of Siena. This is rural Tuscany at its best and it’s retained its beauty over the centuries. Imagine low rolling green hills with vast expanses of vineyards and yellow cornfields dotted occasionally by trees and small churches. Sounds like somewhere I’d like to live forever. Okay, let’s get back to reality and do what we actually can do: an easy day trip from Florence!

The Val d’Orcia is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The historical centre is the small Renaissance town of Pienza aka “The Ideal City”. Visit the Pienza Cathedral and the Piccolomini Palace with its wonderful roof garden.

After Pienza, head on to the scenic wine town of Montepulciano. This medieval town sits on a hill and has an elegant, yet rustic vibe. Walk into the maze of cobbled streets and visit the Renaissance palaces and churches. If you’re looking for birds-eye-views of the city, climb up the clock tower in Palazzo Comunale.

Val d’Orcia is world-renowned for its wine and cheese. Pienza is famous for Pecorino cheese. Montepulcciano is known for two famous wines – Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Rosso di Montepulciano. Your trip to Val d’Orcia will be a special journey of flavours and stunning panoramas for sure!

How to get there: From Florence, take a bus or train to Val d’Orcia. Takes between two and three hours.

Suggested Trip: Pienza and Montepulciano Full-Day Wine Tour

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Don’t Forget Your Florence Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Mamma mia! That was one rollercoaster of a (virtual) ride out of Florence through Tuscany. This is the best thing about Italy as a whole – you’re never short of breathtaking places to go to. Florence itself makes it easy to plan day trips to most of Tuscany.

After you’ve explored all the sights in Florence , There are so many things to do and see in the region. From medieval architecture, amazing art and culture, quaint towns, hiking, and biking trails, spectacular landscapes to some of the best wine tastings and delectable Tuscan cuisine. Our top favs are Bologna and Cinque Terre, both places are absolutely gorgeous!

The best time to go is between late September and October and between April and May. These months are also ideal because of fewer crowds and the weather is pleasant too.

We hope you have a draft plan and itinerary ready for your next trip to Italy. Whichever day trip destination you choose, you won’t be disappointed! Just be sure to pack properly for Italy and you’re ready to go.

Fai un buon viaggio!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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SMALL GROUP ITALY TOURS

hidden italy revealed

Our small group tours in Italy were created to share with you the country we love and the way we like to travel – immersive local experiences with a focus on seasonal food and carefully produced wines.

We’ve lovingly crafted regional Italy itineraries in hidden pockets full of history, culture, and centuries’ old artisan traditions. You know, the ones where there are hilltop towns as far as the eye can see and ancient ruins around every corner. Where we do visit classic locations, we’ll show you their unexpected side – prepare to be amazed.

If you’ve ever wanted to see the picturesque places you’ve seen in movies or heard about on our podcast but were not sure how to go about it, this is your chance to dip your toes in. Add our tours onto a few days in Rome or Florence and have the ultimate Italian adventure exploring the highlights and hidden gems.

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“Tuscan reds and ochre hues, Olive greens and skies of blue, Sunlit valleys full of charm, Secluded homestead and hilltop farm” – Collette O’Mahony

The Tuscan countryside is full of treasures aching to be explored beyond the well trodden paths. Journey slow and awaken your senses under the Tuscan sun.

“This was the gastronomic heartland of Italy, where every inch of the fertile soil was cultivated. In Parma he visited shops festooned with hams…” – Anthony Capella

In Modena they are known for traditional balsamic vinegar and of course, there’s Parmigiano Reggiano (the King of Cheeses!). We taste them all and discover much more..

Dolomites & South Tyrol

“Each mountain in the Dolomites is like a piece of art…” – Reinhold Messner

The Dolomites and South Tyrol is where craggy peaks meet alpine meadows and even pockets of lush Mediterranean gardens. This is nature at its most magical and of course there are local traditions, culture, food and wine to discover.

“The Langhe is a paradise, a giardino: pears, apples, pomegranates, chestnuts. Everything you could want to eat falling from a tree.” – Matt Goulding

And then there’s the wine. Italy’s premier wine region is a food lover’s paradise year round and home to royal palaces, castles and countless pretty towns.

“ The commonplace about Italian cooking is that it’s very simple; in practice, the simplicity needs to be learned, and the best way to learn it is to go to Italy and see it firsthand.” ” – Bill Buford

Come join us in the land of pesto to learn how to cook the Italian way – plus visit pretty towns along the way

“ Real burrata is a creation of arresting beauty- white and unblemished on the surface, with a swollen belly and a pleated top. ” – Matt Goulding

“ To have seen Italy without having seen Sicily is not to have seen Italy at all, for Sicily is the clue to everything. ” – Goethe

“ My idea of heaven still is to drive the gravel farm roads of Umbria … very pleasantly lost. ” – Frances Mayes

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We take you deep into Italy to meet the people that are the life and soul of their regions. You’ll spend time with farmers, winemakers, artisans and truffle hunters in their beautiful environments. 

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It’s important to us that you are the center of your vacation. We’re keeping our small group tours of Italy to a maximum of 10 participants so we can ensure your experience is special.

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Guests on our tours stay in boutique 4 star accommodation where the emphasis is on local charm and considered luxury like our cave hotel in Matera pictured above. Often we enjoy meals at our hotels who meet our exacting standards for exceptional seasonal produce and delicious local dishes. Breakfast (and coffee) are always included so you start the day as you mean to continue.

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Italian food is regional and seasonal, so you’ll have a different experience whether you visit in the spring when asparagus is sprouting or autumn’s truffle season. We work with restaurants, wineries and hotels who have the deepest respect for the provenance and preparation of local dishes.

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The perfect souvenir is a beautifully crafted item made by someone who took the time to show you how it was made. We meet the makers so you understand the care and attention that went into making your ceramic plate, olive oil and other local crafts.

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22 Best Day Trips from Florence in 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Florence is beautiful, and the classic image of the domes of the Florence Cathedral at night is a sight that has traveled the world  photographically  as postcards and social media posts for a long time now. It isn’t just the iconic cathedral; Florence has so many  amazing things to do in 2024.  It is a city of arts, wine tasting, and stunning views.

You can easily see why visiting Florence is such a bucket list tourist activity. The city center is an absolute hub for sightseeing and embracing indulgent Italian living. So when it comes to day trips from Florence, finding day trip destinations that actually justify tearing yourself away from Florence city center can seem ludicrous if you aren’t familiar with its surrounding ‘day trip territory’. Please don’t make the rookie move of staying in Florence’s city center; these day trips from Florence are well worth it.

Table of Contents

22 Best Day Trips from Florence

Whether you want a leisurely half-day trip or an ambitious regional train scramble, these best day trips from Florence will provide some of the most memorable experiences for your Italy itinerary. A day trip from Florence is one of the most exciting things you can do, and you’ve  got  to take advantage of the incredible network of high-speed trains and the city’s prime location in the Tuscan countryside. Don’t make Florence your final destination – no matter how alluring that Florence Vespa tour looks.

Planning Your Trip To Florence Right Now?

Below are some of the top day trip tours from Florence. Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting Italy!

Top Day Trip Activities and Tours from Florence:

• From Florence: Tuscany Wine & Food Tour with Guide (Most Popular Day Trip from Florence)
• From Florence: Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti Day Trip with Lunch (Our Favorite Day Trip)
• Florence: Cinque Terre Day Trip with Optional Hike (Likely to Sell Out)
• From Florence: Cooking Class & Lunch at Tuscan Farmhouse (Best Deal)
• Best Place to Book All Of Your Trains From Florence!

1. Cinque Terre

If you want to tick off iconic destinations and pick a memorable day trip, Cinque Terre is one of the most classic day trips from Florence. Cinque Terre is a world-famous row of ancient seaside villages dotted in clusters along the dramatic Riviera coastline. The region is famous for its colorful houses and cliffside appeal, with the houses almost spilling over rock faces on their way down to the oceanfront.

Cinque Terre has five main towns: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Monterosso, and Corniglia – if you can, visit them all. Each town has its train station, and it is one of the best day trips if you’d like to indulge in great food, aesthetic town scenes, and optional hiking trails. A Cinque Terre day trip is not to be missed, and you can check out our complete guide to visiting  here .

Distance from Florence: 3 hours by train or car

2. wine tasting.

To be a wine lover, you must visit Tuscany and its beautiful wine regions. The most famous is the Chianti wine region, which has Sangiovese grapes that create delicious pale wines. The Chianti hills are full of wine estates, with the Chianti wines dating back to before the early 15th century, and you can take a guided wine tour that whisks you around the best. The Chianti wine region is popular because of its high density of wine estates and the tastiness of its produce.

You should book a guided tour for this Florence day trip for obvious reasons. Public transport is limited in remote areas, and rental cars are an obvious no-go. Still, luckily there are so many  organized wine-tasting tours from Florence . Tours typically last half a day, lasting between 5.5 and 7 hours – so you’ll get to see a good chunk of the Tuscan countryside while hopping between wine estates. A wine tour is so much fun.

Distance from Florence: An hour by car

Who doesn’t dream of visiting Pisa? And thanks to Italy’s high-speed train system, you can reach Pisa in less than an hour from the central Florence train station. A day trip to Pisa is full of sightseeing and culture; you have the iconic Leaning Tower, delicious food, and many art museums. Pose in the classic ‘hold up the Leaning Tower’ position and wander through stunning white marble buildings; visiting Pisa is fantastic for the relaxed sightseer type of traveler.

Wine lovers can put all their newly accrued wine tour knowledge to the test by ordering a glass to people-watch with and dine al fresco. A day in Pisa should be on your cards. It is one of the best cultural spots in Italy, and direct trains like the Pisa to Florence connection are God sends when it comes to Florence day trips.

Distance from Florence: 1 hour by train

4. san gimignano.

If you want a more rustic, medieval-style day trip from Florence, a San Gimignano day trip should be on the cards. San Gimignano is a tiny hill town with ancient city walls that date back to the 13th century and a skyline covered with medieval spires and rooftops.

San Gimignano’s feudal atmosphere has lingered over the years, and it has a ‘step back in time’ quality that attracts many tourists. The town is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Florence day trip is ideal for anyone wanting a small, walkable destination. And San Gimignano’s history is hard to resist.

You can catch a train to Poggibonsi and then a bus to San Gimignano to get there. There are regular train schedules , so planning train rides and bus trips is easy, despite the brief stopover in Poggibonsi, and the whole journey takes less than two hours one way. Or you can book a rental car and drive this day trip from Florence in an hour.

Distance from Florence: 2 hours by public transport or an hour by car

5. volterra.

Volterra is another medieval town easily accessible as one of the main Florence day trips. This time, though, it has a distinctive dark aesthetic, with orangey brown buildings and a solemn architectural vibe. Volterra has seen everything from the Etruscan to the Roman and Medieval periods, and this half-day trip from Florence is one of the most historical small-town destinations you can choose. Ancient city walls surround the town, and its Palazzo dei Priori is adorned with medieval frescoes.

A Volterra day trip is more than just wandering medieval streets. It has some brilliant attractions, perfect for history-loving day trippers. A major Volterra attraction is the Roman Theater complex, which has bath ruins dating back to the 3rd century. Visit the Roman Theater and also pay a visit to admire the extravagant ceiling of the Palace of the Priors.

Distance from Florence: 1.5 hours by car or 2.5 hours by public transport

Lucca is a beautifully historic medieval city known for its Renaissance walls and stunning city center. Lucca has a cobblestone aesthetic with some big city attractions and is slightly larger than the medieval towns we’ve already listed. Split in half by the Serchio River and surrounded by tree-lined streets and 16th-century ramparts, Lucca is beautiful to explore on foot.

You can catch a train to Lucca train station through rolling hills, enjoying some gorgeous scenery and Pisa stopover before arriving in Lucca in under two hours. Alternatively, take the direct route to Lucca on the bus in just over an hour. Lucca is one of the most photogenic day trips from Florence and is best for hopping between monuments. It also has one of the best direct buses out of all these day trips from Florence.

Distance from Florence: 1 hour and 15 minutes by bus or car

7. montepulciano.

Montepulciano is a hilltop town full of character. The charming town is set within the Tuscan countryside and is one of the most rural day trips from Florence. Vineyards surround Montepulciano, and it is a paradise for wine lovers; famous for its vino nobile red wine – medium-bodied and fruity. However, it isn’t all scenery and wine. Visitors also have the town’s medieval history to enjoy. Set high in the Tuscan hills, attractions like the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio become even more dramatic.

Small towns like Montepulciano are best visited by rental car . With rental cars, you can enjoy a more liberating journey to Montepulciano. And besides, with no direct train, you’ll shave over an hour off your travel time.

Distance from Florence: 1.5 hours by car or 3 hours by public transport.

Milan is a big name. And for those who have yet to visit Milan , Italy’s fashion capital, it is an unmissable day trip from Florence. The city is famous for Milan Fashion Week and has attracted huge designer and model names over the past years. Milan is all shopping and architecture – so if either sounds up your street, this is one of the best day trips from Florence. The iconic Duomo di Milano is where to fill your architecture bucket. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the fanciest shopping centers ever seen.

Milan is also one of the most eco-friendly Florence day trips; it is quicker to get there by train than by car. The high-speed train from Florence reaches Milan in less than 2 hours, while you travel for 3.5 hours by car.

Distance from Florence: 2 hours by train or 3.5 hours by car

Siena is far from just a beautiful name; this UNESCO World Heritage Site has a striking main square-shaped like a fan and some ridiculously pretty medieval buildings. It is one of the best day trips from Florence if you want medieval Tuscan sightseeing without the hassle of inaccessible, out-of-the-way villages and hilltop towns.

Siena is beautiful, historic, and highly accessible. Regarding must-visits, the fan-shaped square, Piazza del Campo, is a top choice while you are there. You should also climb to the top of the Torre del Mangia and enjoy some local cuisine.

Siena is best reached by bus. You can also catch the regional train without booking train tickets in advance. However, the bus is marginally quicker, so if you fancy saving yourself 30 minutes, take the bus instead.

Distance from Florence: 1 hour by car or bus

Venice is one of the best places to visit in Italy, and if you go to Florence, there’s no reason you can’t have the best of both worlds. Venice has many  things to do , including taking a canal gondola ride and visiting St Mark’s Square.

The city center is best experienced by walking tour – guided or self-guided – and is famously set on water, divided by canals and connected by boats and tiny overwater bridges. If you want a day trip from Florence that will make an impact, a trip to Venice is one of your most reliable options. Venice is magical.

Distance from Florence: 3 hours by car or 2 hours by train

You’ll need your ambition for this trip, but Rome is one of the best day trips from Florence. If you catch a fast train , you can arrive directly at one of the central Rome train stations in just 1.5 hours. The fast trains are an excellent way of meaning you still get plenty of free time on your Rome day trip. The real-time cruncher is trying to cherry-pick the best of Rome to see in just a single day – this city usually demands three to four days at least.

Pick a few attractions and research transport between them because Rome is huge; hardly explorable on just a walking tour. The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain combine well in a single day. While if you want to see the Vatican City, you’ll need a whole day to visit this region of Rome.

Central Italy is well worth detouring to on a day trip from Florence. Just make sure you catch the direct trains and high-speed options. You can read all about the best places to see in Rome here .

Distance from Florence: 1.5 hours by train

12. bologna.

Bologna is one of those Italian cities you hear of loads but tend to overlook for more mainstream destinations. We are here to change your mind on beautiful Bologna, though. And you should carve out time for a day trip from Florence to Bologna, especially if you are a foodie. Bologna is renowned for its delicious food and is the perfect place to take a  cooking class or food tour. Think pasta, tiramisu, and more. The whole city feels like one big restaurant, and it even has the nickname ‘Fat City.’

Bologna is 40 minutes away by train, so we recommend heading there for an evening meal or a half-day trip from Florence. It is the perfect nearby destination to divert to for some high-quality cuisine. Keep your stomach happy and add this to your must-do Florence day trips.

Distance from Florence: 40 minutes by train

13. fiesole.

Fiesole is a town of ruins but in the best possible way. The town has many historical and archaeological attractions, including the original segments of the town’s Etruscan wall, preserved Roman baths and theater, and numerous religious landmarks. Fiesole is one of the best day trips from Florence to get a taste of lesser-visited history. Its history is thought to date back even further than its larger neighbor of Florence, making it a sought-after location for history enthusiasts and those in the know.

You can make the most of regional trains or drive to Fiesole. The town is just outside of Florence’s bounds, so it is one of the most convenient sightseeing destinations you can enjoy outside the city center.

Distance from Florence: 35 minutes by train or 20 minutes by car

Verona is one of the most romantic cities on Earth, so when it comes to the most memorable day trips from Florence, Verona needs to be at the top. Verona is the city of the opera Romeo and Juliet – which Shakespeare set in the city. You can even visit Juliet’s House to enter onto the tiny balcony to recreate the iconic ‘Romeo, Romeo wherefore art thou’ scene. Love is a central theme of this city, and if you want to win some serious brownie points, Verona is where to bring your significant other.

It is a great day trip from Florence for all traveler types and groups. You can visit the Verona Arena, Giusti Garden, Scaliger Tombs, and numerous castles and basilicas. Verona is a reasonably walkable city and very doable as a single-day trip. Catch the train to maximize your time sightseeing.

Distance from Florence: 2 hours 15 minutes by train or 3 hours by car

Arezzo is another of the best day trips from Florence to reach by train – knocking an impressive 50% off your travel time instead of visiting by car. So, if you don’t drive or want to be more eco-friendly, listen up. Arezzo is known for two main things; gold and fashion. Poets and artists alike have called the tiny medieval townhome, and it has had a remarkable impact on Italian culture for a hill town of its size. You can visit independent shops and galleries and coordinate your trip to coincide with events like its monthly antique market.

If you like locally made valuables and shopping for antiques, Arezzo is an amazing Florence day trip. It is easy to get diverted to the more significant destinations when planning a day trip from Florence. Arezzo is evidence of why you should also consider some of the smaller destinations. Plus, it is just a 30-minute train ride away. Arezzo is a huge win, win.

Distance from Florence: 1 hour by car and 30 minutes by train

As pretty as the Tuscan countryside is with its cypress trees and beautiful vineyards, you should visit more of the Emilia-Romagna region. And if you want a real foodie hotspot, Parma is your day trip. The city is famously home to Parmesan cheese and Parma ham, and it is a great, smaller alternative to massive Bologna if you want a more lowkey vibe. As a university city, Parma is super friendly. Parma is pretty special, and gastronomical tradition and heritage rule supreme in this northern city.

It is best to visit Parma by train. It is quick for one, and second, this means you can indulge in some wine with your cheese and ham tasting.

Distance from Florence: 2 hours by train and 3 hours by car

17. pistoia.

Pistoia is one of the most accessible day trips from Florence. So note this down as one of the best day trips from Florence if you are short on time or budget. This historic city is usually not on the tourist radar. Only a few venture out through the Tuscan countryside to see Pistoia, which is an absolute shame.

Those that wisely do are rewarded with medieval churches, fewer crowds, and festivals like the Pistoia Blues Festival, which hosts artists like Mumford & Sons and the Arctic Monkeys.

Short and sweet journey-wise, and rewarding attraction-wise, Pistoia is easily a top choice when considering day trips from Florence. Sometimes the last thing you want is more crowds, and underrated Pistoia is an antidote for people overload.

Distance from Florence: 35 minutes by train or 45 minutes by car

18. orvieto.

Orvieto is lesser known but by no means less significant. This tiny city sits on a tufa cliff with an exciting network of caves underneath the city floor. Orvieto is one of the most interestingly laid out cities you can visit on a day trip from Florence. It feels exciting, almost mythical. And if you visit, an underground tour of some of its networks is essential. The tours usually last an hour or so – leaving plenty more time to explore the other attractions, including the 13th-century cathedral and Well of St Patrick.

Orvieto has that wow factor and is more off-the-beaten-track than the rest of our best day trips from Florence. If you already know Italy quite well, Orvieto is one of the better options to broaden your familiarity with the lesser-visited regions of the country.

Distance from Florence: 3 hours by public transport or 2 hours by car

19. monteriggioni.

Monteriggioni is hands down one of the best day trips from Florence. This stunning town still has its ancient walls, and the city walls are famous for their medieval features, including dramatic watchtowers. Monteriggioni is on the cusp of the wine-famed Chianti region and has stunning views over the rolling hills from the city walls. It is full of atmosphere, good views, and character – all the different ingredients for a day trip of a lifetime.

Monteriggioni is one of those day trips that only a tiny demographic of tourists know about and makes an effort to visit while in Florence. The town leaves such a huge impression with its lingering medieval structures and heritage; take advantage of experiencing this firsthand. While visiting Monteriggioni, you should also visit the Arme Museum, which has replicas of ancient weaponry.

Distance from Florence: 2 hours by bus or 1 hour by car

Assisi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of St Francis, one of Italy’s two beloved patron saints. It goes without saying that Assisi is one of the best day trips from Florence for religious or patriotic history. The Basilica of St Francis is the hub of all the collective religious history and contains frescoes portraying the saint’s life, even holding his sarcophagus in its crypt.

Whether you are religious or not, it is a remarkable place to visit, and the history is vividly displayed, making it an engaging visit. The medieval city is also beautiful to walk around, and the Tuscan sun does it a favor, especially when the white marble historic buildings appear sun-kissed at midday.

You can reach Assisi by public transport, just purchasing train tickets on arrival at Florence train station. However, we’d recommend driving as it takes a long time with multiple stops by public transport.

Distance from Florence: 2.5 hours by car and 2-3 hours by public transport

21. livorno.

Livorno has a different vibe from all the other day trips from Florence in this guide. A humble-sized port city, it is known for seafood and maritime culture. Since most Florence day trips take you to inland destinations and use regional trains to reach hilltop village train stations, having a coastal option is a huge plus. Besides, after a few days in the inland city of Florence, you’ll likely be ready to see the ocean. Livorno has its own train station, so you can catch a direct train into the city – no advance train tickets are necessary.

When you reach Livorno, you should walk the Terrazza Mascagni promenade for stunning ocean views. This promenade has striking checkboard flooring with black and white patterns as far as the eye can see. There’s also the Fortezza Vecchia, a massive fortress once dedicated to protecting the exposed coastal city. Of course, sampling local seafood is a must. For an insight into coastal Italian culture, Livorno is the perfect choice.

Distance from Florence: 1.5 hours by train or car

22. cortona.

Cortona is one of the prettiest day trips from Florence and is the filming site of the film Under the Tuscan Sun. A beautiful day trip candidate, it is also one of the most accessible hilltop destinations you can visit from Florence. It takes just 1.5 hours by car or public transport to reach Cortona, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the town.

Cortona is not only pretty but an absolute hotspot for museums. Check out the Etruscan Academy Museum, its Archaeological Park, and the Diocesan Museum. The town is small enough to explore on foot, and since it is so close to Florence, a brilliant candidate for those wanting to spend time enjoying museums. You have barely any travel time on this Florence day trip.

Distance from Florence: 1.5 hours by car or public transport

Faqs about day trips from florence.

Day trips from Florence are magical, whether you take a tour for wine lovers or visit historical monuments for a day in Rome or Venice. Even if you visit the city for the first time, a day trip from Florence should be on your list. Italy is one of those countries where the more you can fit in, the better. And these destinations are just too convenient to miss out on.

Is it worth making a day trip from Florence?

Day trips from Florence are one of the best things you can do in the city. The public transport system is so efficient that you should take full advantage of all the high-speed trains to other major Italian destinations. You can easily reach dreamy destinations like Rome, Verona, Venice, and Pisa. Never mind all the smaller romantic towns and villages.

Can you take day trips to Tuscany from Florence?

Yes, you can take day trips from Florence to Tuscany very easily. There are a select few train stations with links to Florence, many bus routes, and even more organized tours.

Is it possible to do a day trip to Cinque Terre from Florence?

Yes, it is possible to do a day trip from Florence to Cinque Terre. You can take an organized tour, visit by train, or book a rental car.

How long is the train ride from Florence to Tuscany?

The train ride takes around an hour, depending on whereabouts in Tuscany you choose to visit. 

To Conclude

Are you heading to a hilltop town for a medieval ambiance? Or to the Chianti wine region for wine tasting amongst friends? Or are you taking full advantage of the high-speed trains and whisking down to Rome for a day? Any of these best day trips from Florence will provide a fantastic experience. It is up to you to decide how far you want to go.

Florence is ideally located as a base to experience even more of Italy; you do right to take full advantage of that. As beautiful as its Renaissance art and historical monuments are, when you visit Florence, you also access a network of amazing destinations. Make sure you expand your Italy itinerary after touching down in Florence.

Would you like some more Florence inspiration? Check out this guide on  where to stay in Florence  for the rundown of all the best hotels and neighborhoods. Otherwise, have a wonderful time on your day trips from Florence.

Plan Your Next Trip To Italy With These Resources

• 21 Best Things to Do in Florence This Year
• Where to Stay in Florence, Italy – An Insider Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
• 15 Best Day Trips From Rome
• The 13 Best Luxury Hotels in Milan, Italy
• 14 Remarkable Towns in Tuscany, Italy
• Where to stay in Cinque Terre, Italy: The Best Towns And Villages
• 3 Days in Rome: Planning the Perfect Rome Itinerary

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Episode #028: best places to stay in florence – neighborhoods to consider for your trip.

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Wondering where to stay in Florence ? The Renaissance city is small and compact but it has several distinct areas that will suit different types of travelers. Do you want to be right in the heart of the city or perhaps you prefer a quieter neighborhood? Do you want to splurge on a room with a view of the Arno or are you choosing budget accommodation so you can splash out on experiences? In this episode, we answer your questions on where to stay in Florence.

Different areas of the city will suit you depending on your travel style and itinerary. For example, you may want to stay close to the station if you are planning to do a lot of day trips to Tuscany and beyond. However, be aware that this area may not have the romantic atmosphere you may be seeking. This area is also popular with travelers on a budget but there are other central neighborhoods where you can find charming accommodation and a local vibe that you might like to consider.

We share our favorite six districts in Florence and the top hotels and Airbnbs to choose in each one. You’ll learn where to stay if you’re craving a bustling nightlife or quiet afternoons in the piazza. Plus, of course, we’ll also share where to find those coveted views of the Arno River that were so beautifully brought to life in the book and movie of A Room with a View .

If you’re wanting to plan out your Florence itinerary, make sure to listen to our Florence highlights podcast episode too.

Districts in Florence that are perfect for travelers

• Centro Storico – Duomo / Uffizi / Ponte Vecchio  – best for first time visitors. Easily walk to major sights of the city and enjoy the atmosphere of the Renaissance city. Can be very expensive and crowded especially during peak season
• Oltrano and Santo Spirito  – central neighborhood close to the Arno river with lovely piazza surrounded by cafes and wine bars
• Santa Croce  – neighborhood next to the historic center with a lively local market and large piazza in front of the iconic church
• San Niccolò / Piazzale Michelangelo  – charming neighborhood close to the historic center known for artisan workshops, a thriving restaurant scene and magnificent views of the city
• Santa Maria Novella (Station area)  – well known area for budget accommodation that is convenient but lacks charm unless you choose your accommodation wisely
• Fiesole  – pretty hillside town just 10-15 minutes out of the city with views over Florence

Resources from Untold Italy

• Top AirBnB picks in Florence – including some with incredible views of the Arno river,  Florence hotels with pools – great for cooling off after a hot day out in the sun and Best boutique hotels in Florence – charming properties that capture the essence of the city
• Popular towns in Tuscany to explore and our 3 day Florence itinerary
• Discover the different ways to get from Rome to Florence , from a high-speed train to a leisurely drive through Tuscany
• Listen: to Episode #092: Wine Windows of Florence  and Episode #006: Florence highlights
• How to plan a trip to Italy – our article that takes you step by step through trip planning so you can avoid our mistakes
• Italy Travel Planning – our FREE online community where you can ask questions and get inspiration for planning your trip
• Travel shop where you’ll find items mentioned in the show 

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Prefer to read along as you listen? Below is a full transcript of this episode.

Introduction (00:05): Ciao and benvenuti to Untold Italy. I’m Josie and I’m Katy and we’re here to help you plan your trip to Italy. Between us, we have many years of travel experience and we want to help you uncover your own as yet untold stories and adventures in Italy. Each episode you’ll hear practical advice, tips and ideas to help you plan your own trips to the magical land of history, stunning landscapes and a whole lot of pasta. We’ll have interviews from experts and focus on local destinations and frequently asked questions about travel in Italy. Thanks for listening and make sure to subscribe to our show now. Let’s get started on your regular dose of Bella Italia.

Have you ever dreamt of waking up in Florence, pushing open the shutters and gazing dreamily down the Arno River? If you’ve ever seen the Merchant Ivory movie A Room With A View you’ll know exactly what I mean. The story’s heroine, Lucy Honeychurch, is visiting Florence with her chaperone – cousin Violet – and they simply must have a room with a view. This is one of my all time favorite movies set in Italy and at all really. And when you get to Florence you’ll know exactly what I mean. The gorgeous Tuscan hued buildings reflect off the water and the Ponte Vecchio stands proudly over the banks of the Arno. The movie and book on which it was based is set at the turn of the 20th century but not much has changed since then. Many visitors to Florence crave a romantic room with a view of their own. But where can you find them? And are the banks of the Arno the best place to stay in Florence?

Ben venuti, welcome everyone! On this episode of Untold Italy we’re going to explore the best districts to stay in Florence. Much as we did last week when we talked about the areas of Rome, we’ll focus on the areas that best suit visitors to Florence who are staying a few days or less than a week. This will suit most of you but at the end I’ll also mention an area that Marta suggested in our episode on travel with kids that may be suitable if you’re planning to stay a little longer.

Firstly I need to explain that Florence is a very very small city. Much smaller than Rome in fact and generally everywhere you want to go is manageable on foot within about 20 minutes. Within the historic center and throughout Florence you’ll find a good mix of accommodation – from luxury hotels to budget hostels, AirBnBs and apartments and gorgeous small boutique hotels which I think really capture the essence of Florence and the feeling I’m looking for when I watch A Room with a View! Of course, as one of the most popular cities to visit in Italy the best rooms get snapped up very quickly so it’s a good idea to book as soon as you can if you see something you like. At least 6 months in advance is a general rule of thumb if you’re traveling in peak season from May to October. Of course, given everything is pretty fluid right now in terms of travel then it is a very good idea to choose an option that gives a generous cancelation policy.

Your budget is going to be the biggest driver for your choice of accommodation in Florence. Of course the closer you get to the Arno and those coveted views, the higher the price. But that being said you can get great value staying at apartments just a few streets back from the main attractions. We actually stayed in a lovely AirBnB just steps from the Ponte Vecchio on our last visit in November. It was great value and I have to say, if you listened to our episode on where to stay in Rome, you’ll know I made the mistake of leaving things a little late to secure the best accommodation so I felt lucky to get that property.

Florence, as I mentioned, is a very small city so you don’t really need to be too concerned about staying close to the station as you can walk there in about 20 minutes from most places. And it’s relatively flat. We would get a taxi from the station or airport to our hotel or apartment and it’s relatively cost effective and takes all the stress out of wheeling luggage – even if it is only carryon. I would be surprised if you needed to use the public transport system much at all if you were staying a few days.

Each area I’m going to mention has its own unique character and will suit some travelers over others. Some people like to be in the heart of the action while others like nothing better than to explore a local neighborhood. We’ve got options for all of you and there is no right or wrong choice – just make the one that is going to suit you and your travel companions the best.

We will give you the names of the areas and landmarks close by. You can filter the results on the main booking sites like Booking.com and AirBnB. Just be sure to check the exact location on the map so you are very clear about where it is in relation to the main train station and bus stops if you need them. Lastly always, always read many reviews and check the cancelation policy before booking anything.

So let’s start with everyone’s favorite and one of the main spot you’re going to get that room with a view

Centro Storico / Historic Center near the Duomo / Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio

The main historic center area in Florence is really tiny and all the major attractions here are in a very short walk of one another – maybe 10 minutes. Here you’ll also find shops, restaurants, cafes and hotels and apartments. Given that it’s all right there on your doorstep then this is the most expensive area to stay in Florence but you really can’t beat the atmosphere. It’s like you stepped right into the Renaissance with all the incredible buildings, sculptures and fountains around you.

One minute you’re gazing up at Brunelleschi’s dome and the next you’re posing with the replica of David in the Piazza della Signoria or going on a ride on the vintage carousel in Piazza della Republicca or strolling across the Ponte Vecchio.

There’s a broad range of eateries to choose from. Take your pick from the exclusive Gucci Cafe run by one of the world’s best chefs – Massimo Bottura; the terrace at the Continentale hotel with impressive views of the city or more homely and humble osterias where you can try local Tuscan dishes.

Plus if you want to explore another place for dinner – I recommend aperitivo in Piazza Santa Croce – then it’s really just a short walk away.

The centro storico of Florence really is so compact and convenient but in that respect it comes with the challenge of being very busy. Even in November when I was there last it was crowded in this area and the visit before that one September was incredibly busy. So if you’re looking for a quieter neighborhood feel then this area is not for you.

Also, in summer Florence gets very very hot and there isnt much green space to cool down in or relax in the shade. And before I forget I should mention that getting a hotel with a pool in Florence is a very very good idea in summer. Unfortunately you wont find them in this part of town. Here you get the views!

Now I know I promised to share with you the places where you can get those rooms with a view. Well, The Continentale hotel and Portrait Firenze are both very chic hotels that offer you that experience. As does the Hotel Balestri which is a little further down the river away from the hubbub and noise of the main tourist zone. If you’re searching for Airbnbs or apartments look for properties close to the Ponte Vecchio or Uffizi for the best chance of views from your room. We’ll put our favorite airbnb picks and hotels in the show notes for this episode.

Santa Maria Novella train station

OK now onto another popular area that has its advantages but if you listened to our last episode I’m not really a fan of staying in the areas very close to the train station. So in Florence this is called Santa Maria Novella and it’s quite a large district and has some decent places to stay but in general it is not as charming as the area closer to the river and the Duomo.

On the upside it is quite a bit cheaper and you’ll find hostels as well as 2 star hotels here. Plus, if you were planning to do a lot of day trips by train or bus to other cities or parts of Tuscany then it might make sense for you to stay close to the station.

What I would be mindful of though is avoiding the area immediately around the station and head more towards the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella and the piazza of the same name. Here you’ll find some lovely hotels including the Hotel Minerva which does have a pool on its rooftop terrace with some of the best views of Florence. Obviously that one comes with a little extra price tag!

You’re also close to the Accademia Gallery for when you want to see the David statue in this area but like I said, it’s not as charming as other places in the city.

Another thing that I like about this area is it is super close to the fabulous Mercato Centrale which is an upscale food court on the first level of the San Lorenzo market. The main market downstairs is a bit average with designer knock offs and cheap leather goods but if you take the elevator upstairs to Mercato Centrale it is foodie heaven with little cafes and restaurants and bars specialising in pizza or seafood or whatever you like really. You can even get some non Italian food like sushi if – GASP – you are sick of Italian food. Don’t worry. It happens to the best of us. I tend to go to Mercato Centrale even if I’m not staying in the area as it’s great for a casual bite or snack.

So speaking of food, that takes us to one of the more local neighborhoods and a place where you’ll find lovely wine bars and restaurants a little way out from the main tourist areas. It’s a lovely spot where we stayed in November and I found it really quite charming and I’d definitely stay there again. I’m referring to the area known as Oltrano and specifically the pocket near the Piazza Santo Spirito

Oltrano / Santo Spirito

Oltrano literally means “other side of the Arno”. So you find this area on the opposite bank of the Arno to the Uffizi Gallery and Duomo. And you just head across the Ponte Vecchio and it lands you right there. You can follow this street up a way and you reach the Pitti Palace which is home to several museums and of course the famous Boboli Gardens full of statues and fountains and greenery. Plus the magnificent Medici grotto. There are some gorgeous artisan boutiques in this area selling handmade paper and leather products. It’s definitely a good place to go browsing.

The most famous and exclusive hotel offering Arno views is Hotel Lungarno but you can also find quite a few apartments along that stretch of the river.

As I mentioned, this is the place to stay if you’re serious about your food and wine. There are some absolutely lovely little wine bars that serve amazing food. We really enjoyed our evening at Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina last year. Also, if you wander towards Santo Spirito there’s a gorgeous little piazza where cafes spill out onto with a very friendly neighborhood vibe.

If we were taking the kids this is one area I would definitely consider staying in as the piazza is a car free zone where they could play and they are not the easiest to find in Florence. Just around the corner from there is a gelato shop called Sbrino and I’m still thinking about their salted caramel flavor more than 6 months later!

You can easily walk to the Uffizi Gallery, Duomo and Accademia in well under half an hour if you dont stop to check out the shops and beautiful city along the way. In fact, on foot from this area may be quicker than driving thanks to the dreaded ZTL historic zone and one way streets.

Santa Croce

Another local neighborhood that I really love is Santa Croce. So named for the incredible church that stands in its center, this neighborhood again has some great restaurants and bars as well as a thriving local market – the Sant’Ambrogio market. It’s the kind of place that the nonnas go to to their daily shop and locals stand at the bar drinking their coffee. There’s a few butchers in there with stuffed boars heads over their signage and you’ll find all the best seasonal fruit and vegetables.

The church itself is amazing and full of priceless art and sculptures. It’s the final resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo and Macchiavelli – all famous Florentines. And it has a beautiful gothic style marble exterior. You’ll find a huge piazza out the front of the church lined with bars and restaurants and it’s at this very place that I like to relax and have aperitivo as the sun sets. I love watching the local kids play football in the piazza and actually the city usually holds their historic football matches here complete with costumes and pageantry in this very spot each year.

You can also visit the leather school that is behind Santa Croce. There’s an interesting little museum and shop where you can buy extremely well made and authentic leather items – purses, wallets and jackets. Plus there are some quality leather shops in this area too if you feel like doing some shopping.

It’s a very easy 15 minute walk into the main area of Florence but you get a nice neighborhood vibe and there are lots of restaurants and bars if you want to eat close to your hotel. Again, thanks to the piazza and a small playground nearby this is an area I would consider staying if we were going as a family for a short trip.

San Niccolo / Piazzale Michelangelo

Right now heading back over the river and this neighborhood is more for adults due to the fantastic bars, restaurants, and narrow streets. The San Niccolo district just below Piazzale Michelangelo is a lot of fun and my husband and I spent a lot of time there when we visited a couple of years ago.

Apart from the bars and restaurants and fun almost bohemian neighborhood vibe there are some absolutely incredible artisan workshops and boutiques here. One of my favorites is Alessandro Dari a jeweller who makes absolutely fantastical imaginative sculptural pieces inspired by the city, spirituality and history. His shop and workshop is like a wonderland. There is also a perfumier in the same street where you can create your own scent. It’s very artistic and if you want a unique souvenir or gift this is where I would recommend you spend some time.

In terms of location, in San Niccolo you’re just a dreamy walk across the Ponte delle Grazie which has some of the best views of the river down toward the Ponte Vecchio. It’s only about a 15 minute walk to the Uffizi Gallery and 20 minutes to the Duomo so you see Florence is a very small city and if you want to get out of the main hustle and bustle you can do that. This neighborhood is also below one of the best places for views of the city at Piazzale Michelangelo. You need to climb up a very steep hill past a pretty rose garden to get there but the views of the whole city laid out before you are magnificent.

There’s not so many hotels in San Niccolo so you’re looking at AirBnBs and apartments but you will find good value there too.

Lastly, if you’re staying a little longer or don’t mind a little travel into town, the village of Fiesole is just outside of Florence to the north east and it offers panoramic views of the city. There’s actually quite a broad range of accommodation there including villas and agriturismos as well as the absolutely splendid 5 star Belmond hotel. Many of the places have swimming pools which would be most welcome in summer.

So this is a great way to get some of that Tuscan countryside experience while staying very close to Florence. There are local buses that can take you into town in around 30 minutes and this is probably the best option as driving and parking arent the easiest. But also, now I think of it, if you want to do some exploring of Tuscany by car then if you stay in Fiesole you’re likely to find accommodation with free or at least easy parking

So they are the main areas I’d recommend staying in when you visit Florence. Of course the area around the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio is the most popular as it is so central and convenient. Not to mention beautiful and historic. If you only have a very short amount of time in Florence and it’s your first visit then it makes sense to stay here so you can make the most of your time. But, if you want to get away from the crowds and discover some of the local neighborhoods Santa Croce district has the wonderful market and piazza while in Oltrano you can really relax into the cafe and wine bar culture around Santo Spirito. For a more lively nightlife and some amazing boutiques and ateliers then try San Niccolo. You can find budget accommodation in these neighborhoods – mainly apartments and airbnbs – but also closer to the Santa Maria Novella station. And while this area may be convenient for getting to the station for day trips and your onward journey, it is not the most charming. It all depends on your priorities however and if you dont plan to spend a lot of time in your hotel this may not be an issue. Lastly Fiesole is a small village outside of Florence with easy access to the city that offers rural charm and stunning views.

Each of these areas obviously has its own advantages and disadvantages but for the most part the beauty about Florence is that you are very close to the historic center and everything is accessible on foot – and mainly flat too! – wherever you stay. Generally speaking, accommodation close to the river and the main sites where you can find your coveted room with a view are the most expensive.

And as I mentioned earlier, if you are visiting in summer then know that Florence does get very hot. Make sure to check if you accommodation has air conditioning if that is important to you. Many hotels and apartments are in very old buildings so you simply cannot assume that there will be AC in your room. Another good idea is to book a place with a pool for cooling off in the afternoon. There are quite a few places at various different price points with pools in the city and they do get snapped up quickly so if that’s important to you I suggest booking them well in advance.

Advance bookings are always a good idea in Florence. As it is a small and extremely popular place to visit for people from within Europe and all over the world, book as early as you can to avoid disappointment – 6-12 months is not uncommon and I certainly wouldnt leave it much later than 3 months if you have your heart set on a particular property. The busiest times are generally May to October though really in recent times (current crisis excepted) there has been a shrinking low season in Florence.

These days you can get generous cancelation on your bookings and I would pay a bit extra for that given these are very uncertain times. But always always read reviews carefully – I like to read at least 10 – and check the terms and conditions carefully. We use AirBnB and Booking.com and they are very clear on this. These are the booking sites that I prefer and use for all our trips to Italy and around the world. When our recent trip to Italy was canceled we did get all of our money back from those bookings but I always book with cancelation up to a few days in advance anyway.

So I hope now you have a good idea of the best areas to stay in Florence. It really is such a beautiful and historic city. I love the fact that you need to get about on foot as this is really the best way to appreciate the city. Don’t forget to look up, down laneways, at the magnificent doorways and of course take in those views and reflections of the river Arno. And if you are looking for one I do hope you find that room with a view. And if you haven’t watched that movie and you are in the slightest bit romantic I would prioritise that immediately too.

As always we’ll put all our information on accommodation in Florence including all the hotels and districts I mentioned into the show notes for this episode at untolditaly.com/28 – for episode 28. We hope you find the perfect place to rest for your trip to Florence. Whether it is your first visit or your fifth, there is something quite magical about the Renaissance city that captures the imagination of visitors the world over. And I hope, like you, to be visiting there, walking those cobbled streets and surrounded by 100s of years of history very soon.

Grazie mille, Thank you so much for listening. If you havent already, please subscribe to our show and let us know how we’re doing by providing a review. Grazie, we appreciate your support and ciao for now!

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Best place to stay in florence – accommodation and district guide [2024].

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

Looking for the best place to stay in Florence? You’ve come to the right place. Florence is a small and beautiful city full to the brim with Renaissance architecture and art, delicious cuisine and artisan boutiques.

Finding the perfect place to stay in the city will ensure your memories of Florence linger for years. How could you forget the palazzos hugging the banks of the Arno and the elegant cafe-lined piazzas where fountains have gurgled for centuries?

But, the best place to stay in Florence for you will depend on your travel style and plans, preferences and budget. Do you want a coveted  room with a view of the River Arno? Or a luxury hotel with a pool? Maybe you would prefer a romantic boutique-style hotel in a converted palazzo. Or a villa in the hills overlooking the city.

To help you decide, we created this guide to where to stay in Florence in 2024.

What's in this article

Best area to stay in Florence summary

Santa maria novella and san lorenzo, santa croce, san niccolo and piazzale michelangelo, florence and italy resources.

While most of the hotels in Florence are within a few minutes walk of the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio and Duomo, it is worth considering some of the neighborhoods just out of the historical center. These areas offer a unique peek into Florentine life but also, often are much better value.

We look for hotels and apartments with a unique feature or service. It could be a converted palace complete with restored frescoes, a rooftop bar with incredible views or an acclaimed restaurant on site.

As we travel as a family often, we are always on the look out for accommodations that go out of their way to accommodate children. We look for separate beds and rooms (not sofa beds), availability of cribs and onsite facilities like a pool. Easy walking distance to attractions and transport is a factor too. And we always look for places that offer a decent breakfast to start the day.

Here is a summary of the best accommodation in Florence by district. These areas are within walking distance of most of the city sights and attractions.

Read the article for more details on the best places to stay in Florence and things to do in each neighborhood.

Note – this is not a guide for the ultra budget-conscious. In our value/budget category, we considered hotels at around €90 per night that delivered a ton of value. 

Planning a trip to Italy? Join our free Italy Travel Planning community and read our detailed guide for tips, information and advice.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo) is one of the most iconic buildings in Florence and Italy. With its unique tiled exterior and magnificent dome, it is the centerpiece of the Renaissance city.

No trip to Florence would be complete without at least walking past the Duomo but if it is your first visit it makes sense to stay close by.

Staying at a hotel near the Duomo means you have the main attractions of the city at your doorstep. There are countless restaurants, rooftop bars and cafés to enjoy close by. And if you want to indulge in people-watching or designer shopping, Via de’ Tornabuoni is temptingly near.

This area is around a 10 minute walk to the main station- Santa Maria Novella.

Best for: your first visit to Florence and immersing yourself in Renaissance architecture

Recommended hotels near the Duomo

Luxury – Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy

The   Rocco Forte Savoy Hotel is a favorite place to stay in Florence due to its position in the center of the city and luxury designer feel. Recently refurbished, this small luxury hotel also features

• a terrace on elegant Piazza della Repubblica
• luxury guest rooms, most with views of the Duomo or Piazza
• walking distance to main attractions
• restaurant, bar and 24-hour room service
• gym on site

The hotel recently collaborated with Italian design house Pucci, to reimagine the Savoy with modern luxury with timeless elegance. It is the perfect place to stay for a luxury escape >> Click for availability and prices at Rocco Forte The Savoy .

If there is no availability, also try – Helvetia & Bristol Firenze (Star Hotels Collezione)

Boutique – Hotel Brunelleschi

Hotel Brunelleschi is a beautiful hotel in a historic building with contemporary styling and conveniences. In a quiet street close to the Duomo, this hotel is renowned for impeccable service and the following amenities:

• some rooms have stunning views of the city
• designer interiors and toiletries
• 2 in house restaurants
• families welcome, special rooms available

The hotel has a unique mix of period setting and modern style. It is set in a restored Byzantine tower and Medieval Church so close to the Duomo that you can hear the bells toll throughout the day. So romantic! >> Click for availability and prices at Hotel Brunelleschi .

Rooms at this hotel sell quickly, if you miss out you might like to try  Hotel Cerretani Firenze  [MGallery by Sofitel]

Family-friendly – Hotel Spadai

Just a two minute walk from the Duomo, Hotel Spadai is in the perfect location to explore Florence as a family. The hotel offers several types of rooms to suit those traveling with kids. Also notable are the:

• rain shower in bathrooms (our kids love these!)
• American-style buffet breakfast
• 24×7 reception
• complimentary minibar in rooms
• private spa with sauna and hydromassage

Hotel Spadai is a very popular boutique-style hotel in the heart of Florence. With soundproofed rooms and a huge breakfast to start your day, it is one of our top recommended hotels in Florence >> Click for prices and availability at Hotel Spadai .

No rooms here? Try Hotel Perseo   or Hotel Pendini   – both have family rooms and good reviews

Value / Budget – Hotel Perseo

Only 3 minutes’ walk from the Duomo, Hotel Perseo is one of the best budget hotels in Florence. Rooms are on the small side but the hotel is recommended for:

• large breakfast served daily
• kettle, coffee and tea in rooms
• family and quadruple rooms

This hotel is ideal for those looking for a hotel in the center of Florence without the usual price tag. The staff are helpful and if you book early you may find a room with a view over the city rooftops >> Click for availability and prices at Hotel Perseo .

Budget hotels near the Duomo are scarce – you might also like Hotel Cestelli

Apartments near the Duomo

There is a limited supply of short-term rental apartments close to the Duomo available on Booking.com and AirBnB . Book early and you may just find the perfect vacation rental in the heart of  Florence.

Our top picks:

• Granduomo Charming Accomodation  – a selection of apartments sleeping up to 4 with a central reception, kitchenette and free Wifi. Many of these apartments have spectacular views of the Duomo
• St. Elizabeth Apartments – modern apartments for up to 6 people in a quiet street close to the Cathedral

>> Click here for all apartments near the Duomo in Florence

FIND: The best apartments and Airbnb stays in Florence on the Plum Guide . Use the code “Untold5” for 5% off your stay.

Attractions and things to do in the Duomo area

You are staying in the very heart of the Renaissance city and most of the main attractions are here but you absolutely must not miss the following activities:

• Visit the Duomo and climb Brunelleschi’s Dome and the Bell Tower – you can get your tickets here
• Admire the doors and intricate details of the Baptistry
• Wander around the outside of the cathedral and enjoy the atmosphere with a gelato
• Admire the sculptures (including the replica of Michelangelo’s David) in the Piazza della Signoria

Where to eat

This is Florence so you are really spoilt for choice with Florentine and Tuscan restaurants, Some favorites:

• Enoteca Coquinarius [via delle oche 11, Firenze] – here you can eat a delicious pasta lunch with wine for around €20. Try the cheese and pear raviolini
• Restaurante Santa Elisabetta [Piazza Sant’Elisabetta, 3] – fine dining restaurant in a historic tower
• La Strega Nocciola  [Via Ricasoli, 16r] – seriously good gelato – you will go there more than once

Many people visit Florence just to go to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world’s most celebrated art museums. The area around the Uffizi is also the best place to find accommodation and hotels with views of the Arno.

Just imagine waking up to the view above. So romantic! It’s no wonder it inspired the classic novel and faithful film reproduction  A Room With A View (which I believe should be mandatory viewing before a trip to Florence).

READ: Our guide to buying tickets for the Uffizi .

In our opinion, this is the best area to stay in Florence whether it is your first or fifth time.

Right in the heart of the historic center of Florence near the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti there are countless restaurants and bars to enjoy as well as shopping opportunities and of course, visiting the Uffizi Gallery.

As you can imagine this is not the best place to find budget hotels in Florence. If you book six months in advance or earlier you may find an apartment in the area that offers excellent value plus views!

Walking to the train station from this area takes around 15 minutes or it is a short taxi ride.

Best for: art lovers and romantics, luxury hotels with views, Florentine feasts

READ: The 12 best museums in Florence .

Recommended hotels near the Uffizi gallery

Luxury – Portrait Firenze

Just steps from the Ponte Vecchio, Portrait Firenze is a luxury five-star hotel with an incredible location overlooking the Arno. Guests enjoy

• lifestyle concierge to attend to your every whim
• bathrobes, slippers, and Ferragamo toiletries
• luxury rooms with carrara marble bathrooms
• Caffe Dell’Oro restaurant featuring classic Tuscan dishes
• complimentary tickets to the Ferragamo museum

For the ultimate ‘room with a view’ you can’t go past Portrait Firenze. You may not feel like leaving the hotel if you secure one of the suites with a river view where you can watch Florence unfold before your eyes >> Click for availability and prices at Portrait Firenze .

Another highly regarded luxury option in this area is  Hotel Bernini Palace   (however sadly there is no view of the Arno)

Boutique – Continentale

The Continentale is a chic hotel with impossibly romantic views over the Ponte Vecchio. Owned by fashion label Ferragamo, you can expect immaculate styling and service. The hotel also offers:

• stylish rooms – many with river views
• room service available until 11pm
• famous rooftop cocktail bar
• spa and wellness center on site
• valet parking

La Terrazza, the Continentale’s rooftop bar is one of the best places for a sunset aperitivo in Florence thanks to the hotel’s incredible position on the Arno. Of course, the main attractions are just a short walk away >> Click for availability and prices at the Continentale .

Also located on the river, Hotel Balestri has stylish rooms with a view

Family-friendly – San Firenze Suites

Only 100 metres from the Uffizi, San Firenze Suites are a great family-friendly hotel in Florence.   Situated on pretty Piazza San Firenze at the hotel you can enjoy:

• 2 room suites – separate sleeping areas
• a complimentary breakfast
• some rooms have lovely views of the city rooftops
• cots available on request
• larger suites have outdoor jacuzzi spas

Art and culture can be tiring for little people. San Firenze Suites are close to the main attractions (and gelato stops) and provide a haven to relax in after a busy day of sightseeing and gallery hopping >> Click for availability and latest prices at San Firenze Suites .

You could also try Relais Uffizi   – a hard to find budget family option.

Value / Budget – Hotel del Corso

Situated between the Uffizi and Duomo, Hotel del Corso is a three-star hotel with a fantastic position and a terrace with wonderful views of Florence. The hotel also features

• air-conditioned rooms
• tea and coffee in rooms
• laundry service available

The Hotel del Corso is a great value hotel in the heart of Florence. Rooms are large for this class of hotel and the friendly staff ensure a memorable stay >> Click for availability and prices at Hotel del Corso .

Rooms at this hotel are booked well in advance, you might like to try Hotel Alessandra

Apartments near the Uffizi

Apartments near the Uffizi offer great value when compared to hotels and if you book early you can find vacation rentals with incredible views of Florence.

Start your accommodation search for vacation rentals around 6 months prior to your visit to uncover the best deals on  Booking.com , The Plum Guide and AirBnB .

• Relais Piazza Signoria   – several modern apartments sleeping up to 4 people with kitchenette, dining area and position on Piazza della Signoria
• Apartments Florence Porta Rossa Exclusive – luxury, beautifully designed 4 bedroom apartment for up to 10 people. Set over 2 levels with fully equipped kitchen,  dining area and 4 bathrooms

>> Click here to view all apartments near the Uffizi Gallery

Attractions and things to do around the Uffizi Gallery

Of course, you must not miss the Uffizi Gallery itself. One of the world’s great museums and galleries, it is full to the brim with works by the Renaissance masters of Florence.

• Take an early morning tour of the Uffizi – it gets very busy later in the day >> click here for more info
• Visit the Palazzo Vecchio and see where the Medici ruled Florence
• Rub the snout of the bronze boar statue Il  Porcellino  to ensure you return to Florence
• Stroll along the Ponte Vecchio – perhaps buy some jewelry at the traditional stores
• Aperitivo at La Terrazza bar at Continentale – so special
• Buca dell’Orafo [Via dei Girolami, 28] – a small trattoria in a cellar close to the Uffizi serving traditional Tuscan dishes
• L’Ora di Aria [Via dei Georgofili, 11] – elegant and modern Tuscan cuisine – reservations required
• Perche’ No! [Via dei Tavolini, 19] – delicious artisan gelato with some interesting seasonal flavors

Santa Maria Novella is the name of the beautiful Renaissance church pictured above as well as the main train station in Florence.

We also included the neighborhood of San Lorenzo in this area close to the famous market of the same name.

With easy access to the station, this area is a great place to stay for those who are staying a short while in Florence and are arriving and departing by train.

The main attractions are around 10 to 15 minutes on foot from this area so you can expect better value accommodation options although you need to do your research and be picky. There are some boutique and luxury hotels in the quieter areas near Piazza Santa Maria Novella

You will find lots of things to do there too. We love the gourmet food court on level one of the indoor Mercato Centrale – it is a foodie paradise! As expected, there is art galore inside Santa Maria Novella by many Renaissance masters including Botticelli and Brunelleschi.

Best for: last-minute bookings, central budget accommodation within walking distance, historic hotels

Best hotels in Santa Maria Novella and San Lorenzo

Luxury – Grand Hotel Minerva

One of the city’s landmark hotels, Grand Hotel Minerva overlooks pretty Santa Maria Novella Piazza and is set in a historic property.

• rooftop pool open April to October
• some rooms have four poster beds and ceiling frescoes
• bar and restaurant featuring Florentine dishes
• valet parking available
• families welcome and well catered for

Grand Hotel Minerva is the place to stay if you want a luxury stay in Florence with a resort feel.  The rooftop pool area has stunning views of the city’s terracotta rooftops and the Duomo. This hotel has a wonderful reputation for looking after families >> Click for availability and prices to stay at Grand Hotel Minerva .

This is a very popular hotel in Florence, you might also like St Regis Florence (has views of the Arno)

Boutique – Grand Hotel Baglioni

Decorated in traditional Florentine style,  Grand Hotel Baglioni is a historic boutique-style hotel near Santa Maria Novella train station. Guests at the hotel enjoy

• rooftop restaurant with stunning views of Florence
• complimentary soft drinks in mini bar
• 24-hour room concierge
• laundry service
• tea and coffee-making facilities in rooms

Established in 1903, the hotel interiors are decorated with frescos, historic photos, and paintings. You can also expect modern amenities including a smartphone with free local and international calls, together with mobile internet for use during your stay >> Click for availability and prices at Grand Hotel Baglioni .

Other recommended boutique hotels in San Lorenzo and Santa Maria Novella include  Firenze Number Nine Wellness Hotel   or Hotel Glance (has swimming pool).

Family-friendly – Hotel Globus

In a fantastic position near San Lorenzo market, Hotel Globus offers large quadruple rooms with queen and twin beds. Other family-friendly amenities include:

• complimentary breakfast (includes vegan, vegetarian and organic products)
• flexible room layout
• room service
• cribs available on request

Hotel Globus   is within walking distance of Santa Maria Novella train station and the main attractions. This hotel is very popular thanks to its welcoming staff, thoughtful room design for families and buffet breakfast >> Click for availability and prices at the Hotel Globus .

Should this hotel have no availability we recommend Grand Hotel Adriatico  or Hotel Roma

Budget / Value – Hotel Alba Palace

A traditional hotel close to the train station, Hotel Alba Palace covers all the basics in a great location. There are some surprise added extras:

• daily buffet breakfast
• some rooms have balconies
• 24-hour front desk

Worth considering if you are on a tight budget for its fantastic location and larger room sizes in this price category >> Click for Hotel Alba Palace availability and prices .

Some other recommended budget options in this area –  Residenza D’Epoca La Basilica  or  Hotel Cosimo de’ Medici 

Apartments in Santa Maria Novella and San Lorenzo

Start your search for self-catering accommodation around 6 months prior to your visit to uncover the best deals on Booking.com , The Plum Guide and AirBnB  near Santa Maria Novella station and San Lorenzo market

• Apartment Artemisia – great for large groups, there are 2 apartments – one sleeps up to 8 with a garden. Kitchen, washing machine and toys for kids available
• San Lorenzo Apartment – restored apartments with original frescoes sleeping up to 5 close to the market.

>> Click here to search apartments near Florence station and San Lorenzo

Attractions and things to do in Santa Maria Novella and San Lorenzo

The area near the train station and San Lorenzo market is busy and vibrant. Many tourists flock to the famous outdoor market for leather goods and souvenirs. Sadly, I think it is no longer the place for quality goods and more of a tourist trap.

Persevere and venture up to the first floor of Mercato Centrale to visit the incredible food court. You will not be disappointed. Open 10 am until midnight there are 100s of stalls featuring Italian and international cuisine and wine to choose from.

Of course, there are churches to visit and the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze where you can see Michelangelo’s original statue David close by.

Highlights of the Santa Maria Novella and San Lorenzo area

• visit the Renaissance churches Santa Maria Novella and the Medici chapel in San Lorenzo for an art fix
• tour the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze for even more culture – you can get skip-the-line tickets here
• indulge your inner foodie at Mercato Centrale
• go on a day trip to the Tuscan countryside – read our guide to day trips from Florence first

Where to eat in Santa Maria Novella and San Lorenzo

• Mercato Centrale  [Via dell’Ariento] – hands down the best food court you are ever likely to experience
• Trattoria Sostanza  [Via della Porcellana 25 r] – has been cooking Tuscan classics since 1869 – must visit!
• La Dantesca [Via Panzani, 57/r] – Neapolitan-style pizza or Florentine steak anyone?

Santa Croce is close enough to the main attractions of Florence that you can walk everywhere, but you still get the feeling of a typical neighborhood.

The Santa Croce Basilica is my favorite church in Florence. It has a typical Florentine feel and incredible artwork but it is also the final resting place of the city’s great citizens Galileo Galilei, Michelangelo Buonarroti and Machiavelli.

A statue of Dante Alighieri stands guard over the piazza where a Christmas market is held in December. It is also the venue for the Calcio Storico Fiorentino a traditional game like rugby played among four competing districts of Florence.

We enjoyed aperitivo hour in the piazza watching the basilica turn various shades of blues, pinks and purples at dusk. The Santa Croce area is known for its restaurants and bars so you can happily spend an evening bar hopping and dining.

Close by the Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio is a local market worth visiting for food shopping and a local vibe.

Best for: enjoying a local neighborhood, nightlife, relaxed vibe

Recommended hotels in Santa Croce

Luxury – Relais Santa Croce by Baglioni Hotels

Experience the lifestyle of a Florentine prince in the beautifully restored Relais Santa Croce . Delicate frescoes adorn the ceilings of this 18th-century townhouse. Guests of the hotel love:

• the period décor in communal areas
• onsite restaurant – Guelfi e Ghibellini
• some rooms have views of Santa Croce
• mini bar with complimentary mineral water
• 3 starred Michelin restaurant Enoteca Pinchiorri in same building

A historic property, Relais Santa Croce is close to the main attractions of Florence by foot. Here you can experience a Florentine neighborhood in elegant surrounds away from the main tourist traffic >> Click for availability and prices at Relais Santa Croce .

Boutique and family-friendly – Plaza Hotel Lucchesi

Just a short walk from the Uffizi and Ponte Vecchio, the Plaza Hotel Lucchesi is an elegant hotel right beside the Arno River. The hotel features:

• dedicated family rooms
• rooftop pool

You can also take a break from sightseeing in the rooftop pool with stunning views of Florence >> Click for prices and availability at Plaza Hotel Lucchesi .

Budget / Value – Hotel La Casa di Morfeo

Hotel La Casa di Morfeo   is found on one of the most important streets in Florence, Via Ghibellina. Guests like the:

• buffet breakfast
• air conditioned and sound proofed rooms
• tea and coffee maker in rooms
• concierge service

One of our favorite finds in Florence in the budget category, Hotel La Casa di Morfeo offers a comfortable stay at a very reasonable price with lots of added extras. Reviews consistently mention the friendliness of the staff at this hotel close to Santa Croce >> Click for Hotel La Casa di Morfeo availability and prices .

All sold out? Try Casa Leopardi

Apartments in Santa Croce

If you want to experience Florentine living, then check the listings on Booking.com , The Plum Guide and AirBnB  for Santa Croce. That’s exactly what we will be doing when we next visit Florence.

• Santa Croce Garden Apartment   – 2 bedroom apartment with full kitchen and a terrace with garden views for up to 5 people
• Residenza Marchesi Pontenani – self-catering apartments with kitchen and air-conditioning sleeping up to 5 people

>> Click here to search apartments near Santa Croce

Attractions and things to do in Santa Croce

Our favorite things to do in Santa Croce is simply wander and stop at cafes and absorb the beauty of the basilica.

If you need a little more structure, here are some other favorite things to do in Santa Croce:

• admire Giotto’s frescoes inside Santa Croce
• pay your respects at the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli
• visit La Scuola di Cuoio , a workshop where you can see traditional leather making techniques
•  browse the stalls at Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio
• aperitivo in the piazza at sunset

Where to eat in Santa Croce

Santa Croce is one of the best districts to eat in Florence. From small trattorias to Michelin starred dining, there is something for everyone. We recommend:

• Trattoria Cibrèo   [Via de’ Macci, 122r] – local favorite where the daily menu changes with what’s on offer at the market
• I Ghibellini [Piazza San Pier Maggiore, 8] – tasty wood-fired pizza and you must try the traditional ribolita (bread soup)

Oltrano literally means “other side of the Arno”. Many visitors to Florence only venture a few steps into this district as they cross the Ponte Vecchio, but they are missing out.

The best-known attractions in Oltrano are the magnificent Pitti Palace, former home of the Medici, and the elegant Boboli Gardens. Stuffed full to bursting point with yet more art and treasures, Palazzo Pitti has over 500 Renaissance paintings in its Palatine Gallery alone.

Visit the Boboli Gardens and discover the most famous example of Italian style landscaping developed over four centuries.

Strolling the streets of Oltrano uncovers artisan leather and stationery workshops, cool bars and contemporary restaurants. This is definitely the spot to stay if you want to explore Florence with the locals.

Best for: art lovers, shoppers with style, return visitors wanting to try a new area of Florence

Recommended hotels in Oltrano

Luxury – Hotel Lungarno

In a perfect position on the banks of the Arno, Hotel Lungarno blends history, modern luxuries and iconic views. One of the top-rated hotels in Florence, guests appreciate the:

• breakfast room with river views
• highly rated Borgo San Jacopo restaurant
• Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries
• original modern artwork including a Picasso
• in room massage and treatments available

After you have finished breakfast gazing at the Ponte Vecchio, walk the short distance over the bridge to the main sights of Florence. Even if you are not staying at the hotel, the Picteau Lounge bar has cocktails with a view >> Click for availability and prices at Hotel Lungarno .

Boutique – Palazzo Ridolfi

Newly opened, Palazzo Ridolfi is a charming boutique hotel on the southern bank of the Arno in easy walking distance of the main attractions. The hotel offers:

• some rooms have ceiling frescoes
• rain showers in bathrooms

Palazzo Ridolfi is set in a historic building close the Ponte Vecchio. A recent restoration has enhanced the existing period features with modern comforts >> Click for availability at Palazzo Ridolfi .

No availablilty? Try the Spirit of Florence Boutique Rooms

Family-friendly – Palazzo Martellini Residenza d’epoca

Close to the Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Martellini Residenza d’epoca is a friendly hotel in a fantastic location. The hotel has some great facilities and services for families including

• family rooms available
• TV streaming service

Start your day with the buffet breakfast then take your kids for a wander around the magnificent Boboli Gardens close by – one of the few green spaces in central Florence >> Click for availability and prices at the Palazzo Martellini Residenza d’epoca .

Budget / Value – Guicciardini 24

Great basic hotel close the Ponte Vecchio. Just a few minutes walk from the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens  Guicciardini 24   offers:

• simple modern rooms
• air conditioning
• tea and coffee making in rooms
• baggage storage

If you want to stay close to the main attractions in a quieter neighborhood,  Guicciardini 24   is a solid choice with excellent guest reviews >> Click for availability and prices at Guicciardini 24 .

If this hotel is unavailable you might like Ottantotto Firenze

Apartments in Oltrano

Finding an apartment or vacation rental in these areas is challenging. There is limited supply so remember to search and book early on Booking.com , The Plum Guide and AirBnB .

• Palazzo Belfiore – popular studios and apartments for up to 6 people near Palazzo Pitti
• Oltrarno Apartment – gorgeous, homely 3 bedroom apartment for up to 6 people close to Basilica di Santo Spirito

>> Click here to search apartments in Oltrano

Attractions and things to do in Oltrano

You could easily fill an entire long weekend exploring the southern bank neighborhoods of the Arno. In between cafe and bar hopping you could spend a few hours doing these activities

• Palazzo Pitti – admire works by Raphael, Titian and Pieter Paul Rubens
• Boboli Gardens – stroll among fountains and an amphitheater and venture into the grotto
• shopping for beautifully made Florentine gifts
• discover up-and-coming Italian chefs
• admire beautiful Santo Spirito church

Where to eat in Oltrano

Some of the most exciting dining experiences in Florence are found in Oltrano. Here you will find cool little bars serving antipasto and aperitivo among innovative restaurants by the next generation of top chefs. We recommend:

• Essenziale  [Piazza di Cestello, 3R] – modern Italian fine dining in sleek industrial space
• Gurdeulù  [Via delle Caldaie, 12 50125] – playful twist on classic dishes with cocktails to match
• Marina di Santospirito  [Via Maffia, 1/C] – the freshest seafood in town.

To the east of the main Oltrano district, San Niccolo and the area around Piazzale Michelangelo is a fun neighborhood with bars, restaurants and boutiques to discover.

Most people come to this area for the sweeping views of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo (see above). It’s a steep walk up the hill if you are on foot but I am sure you’ll agree it is well rewarded. Last time we were there, they had a gelato festival on in the piazza – how lucky was that?!

This area is outside the historic center and main driving restriction zones (except summer evenings) and you are more likely to find accommodation with free on site parking. It is about a 20 minute walk across Ponte alle Grazie to the Uffizi Gallery and in the other direction Santa Croce

Best for: discovering a Florentine neighborhood, discovering local artisans and creative cuisine, those on a road trip through Italy

Recommended hotels in San Niccolo | Piazzale Michelangelo

Family-friendly – Palazzo San Niccolò

Experience the relaxation of a garden oasis in a historic building, just a stone’s throw from Florence at Palazzo San Niccolò . This aparthotel property offers

• spacious rooms and apartments
• magnificent garden
• on-site lounge bar
• amazing terrace

This former convent is a short walk to the beautiful, newly restored Poggi fountain. It is the perfect hotel to enjoy if you want to mix your Florence culture fix with a relaxing retreat >> Click here for availability and prices at Palazzo San Niccolò .

Budget / Value – Hotel David

Hotel David is a charming traditional hotel near the Ponte della Grazie, just a 20 minute walk from the Uffizi Gallery or a 5 minute bus ride from the historic centre. Guests of the hotel love

• complimentary happy hour
• delicious breakfast
• free in room mini bar
• onsite parking
• rooms with four poster beds

This lovely friendly hotel is popular for good reason. Hotel David provides all those little touches that make a stay memorable at a very reasonable price >> Click for Hotel David availability and prices .

Apartments in San Niccolo

• Residence Michelangiolo – traditional apartments in a historic house with garden and parking. Options for up to 4 people

>> Click here to search apartments near Piazzale Michelangelo

Attractions and things to do in San Niccolo

A stroll around San Niccolo reveals a lively neighborhood where locals and visitors gather to enjoy drinks and dining. Take a peek into the local artisan stores and you may find a treasure to take home. Things to do in this area include:

• walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo and savor the views
• pop into jeweler Alessandro Dari  [Via San Niccolò, 115 / r] – prepare to be amazed (and tempted)
• climb the Torre di San Niccolo, one of the last remaining medieval gates of the city
• hang out and eat in Piazetta di San Miniato

Where to eat in San Niccolo

• Boccadarno [Via di S. Niccolò, 56r] – fun neighborhood restaurant with tasty seafood and pasta dishes
• Enoteca Fuori Porta [Via del Monte alle Croci, 10] – simple fare matched with a 500 strong wine list
• Osteria Antica Mescita San Niccolò [via di San Niccolò, 60R] – traditional Tuscan dishes in a historic building

Want some more help planning your trip to Florence and Italy?

READ: our full guide to Florence – includes itineraries, places to eat + more.

Practical info

• how to get to Florence from Rome
• 10 days in Italy – complete itinerary
• 101 Italy   travel tips
• our guide to   driving in Italy
• Packing list for Italy
• Travel insurance for Italy

Favorite activities

• best day trips from Florence
• Florence market visit and cooking class
• Lucca  in Tuscany
• day trip to Pienza from Florence
• stay in an agriturismo in the Tuscan countryside

Planning a trip to Italy? Join our free Italy Travel Planning Facebook group and read our detailed guide for tips, information and advice for planning your travel to Italy.

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The creator, writer and photographer behind Untold Morsels , Katy has been travelling and tasting the world since she was a teenager.

Now the proud mum of twins, she hopes they grow up to share her passions of great food, wine and travel. Favourite destination: Italy