Florence isn’t just a Renaissance masterpiece it’s also the launchpad for some of the most unforgettable escapes in Italy. With rolling hills, vineyard-draped valleys, and storybook towns just a short ride away, planning day trips from Florence is basically an invitation to explore at full volume. Want to sip Chianti straight from the source? Explore ancient cities frozen in time? Eat your way through scenic villages? You’re in the right place. From the sun-drenched lanes of Siena to the clifftop drama of Cinque Terre, this guide covers the best one-day adventures for culture lovers, food travelers, and anyone with a soft spot for Tuscany wine tours.
What are the best day trips from Florence?
Wander the Wonder of Siena
A day trip to Siena is a bold dive into medieval beauty and Tuscan tradition. Just 1.5 hours from Florence by train or car, the city pulls you in with its shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, striking Gothic cathedral, and centuries-old rituals like the Palio horse race. Walk the narrow alleys, climb the Torre del Mangia for a view over terracotta rooftops, and take your time soaking up the atmosphere. Among the top things to do in Siena Italy, don’t skip a wine-tasting break, Siena wine tours give you a taste of the region’s rich reds right where they’re made, often with a view to match.
Explore Pisa & Piazza dei Miracoli
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of Northern Italy’s most iconic landmarks and makes for a popular day trip from Florence, about 55 miles away. Just an hour away by train from the city center, Pisa is best explored at your own pace. Take in the Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the striking Piazza dei Miracoli without rushing. You can even squeeze in a quick wine tasting in Pisa before heading back.
Curious about what else to explore? Check out the top things to do in Pisa for a well-rounded visit.
Discover San Gimignano
San Gimignano, the hilltop town of towers, offers a taste of the Middle Ages with its defensive walls, cobblestone streets, and piazzas lined with artisanal gelaterias. Set amongst rolling vineyards and olive groves, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for a day trip through Tuscany. Visit San Gimignano wineries on a guided tour that pairs local Vernaccia wines with traditional dishes, and experience Tuscan flavor at its purest.
Want more ideas? Check out the best things to do in San Gimignano and plan your perfect countryside escape.
Stroll the streets of Lucca
Encircled by well-preserved Renaissance defensive walls, Lucca invites visitors with its leafy promenades, charming piazzas, and gorgeous Romanesque churches. Easily reachable from Florence, 59 miles by car, a Lucca day tour can include visits to Lucca wineries, ancient ruins, and even a balsamic vinegar tasting. The town square at Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is perfect for people-watching with a glass of Chianti in hand.
Want to make your visit unforgettable? Explore our favorite things to do in Lucca Italy for a perfect day of history, wine, and slow living.
Journey into the heart of Chianti
Just an hour day trip from Florence will land you in the Chianti region, Tuscany’s most renowned wine destination. Take a private day trip or join a small-group tour to explore the area’s rolling vineyards, visit family-run estates, and enjoy a lunch and wine tasting of world-famous Tuscan wine. Greve in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti are especially lovely villages to explore Tuscany like a local.
Visit Arezzo
Rich in Etruscan history and Renaissance art, Arezzo is often overlooked by tourists, making it a favorite day trip for those seeking authenticity. Located about 50 miles from Florence, it’s a city of churches, antiques, and quiet charm. Take a full-day trip via train or bus from Florence city center to explore its fresco-filled chapels, artisan shops, and hilltop views. Things to do in Arezzo include visiting the Basilica of San Francesco and strolling through the monthly antiques market. And if you’re into wine, Arezzo wineries offer excellent local tastings in peaceful countryside settings.
Marvel at Bologna’s food scene
A bit outside of Florence but worth every minute, Bologna offers an irresistible mix of food, culture, and architecture. This is your spot for handmade pasta, mortadella tasting, wine tasting Bologna, and even a balsamic vinegar masterclass. Located just about 66 miles north of Florence, the regional train makes the journey quick and convenient, perfect for a full-day trip.
Things to do in Bologna include climbing the Asinelli Tower, wandering under the endless porticoes, and indulging in some of Italy’s best culinary traditions.
Drive to Montalcino
If you’re venturing further into Tuscany, Montalcino, the home of Brunello, offers an unmatched wine and food experience nestled in the southern Tuscan countryside. Located about 70 miles from Florence by car, it’s perfect for a full-day escape. Join a cooking class or book a tasting at one of the many acclaimed Montalcino wineries, where bold reds meet rolling vineyard views.
Uncover the top things to do in Montalcino, including exploring the medieval fortress, enjoying panoramic views of the Val d’Orcia, and sipping your way through some of Italy’s most iconic wines.
Venturing to Cinque Terre from Florence
A Cinque Terre day trip combines sea, sun, and charm. These five colorful seaside villages, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, perch along cliffs over the turquoise Ligurian Sea. To get to Cinque Terre from Florence, take a regional train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella to La Spezia, then switch to the Cinque Terre Express. This trip to Cinque Terre is among the most memorable day-trips you can embark on from Florence.
Looking for inspiration? Dive into our guide to the top things to do in Cinque Terre and make the most of your coastal escape.
Savor the heart of Tuscany through its wines
No journey through Tuscany is complete without diving into its legendary wine culture. From the sun-drenched vineyards of the Chianti region to the rolling hills of Montalcino and Montepulciano, Tuscany is home to some of the world’s most celebrated wines. A classic Tuscany wine tour will take you into rustic cellars, family-run estates, and panoramic tasting rooms where every bottle tells a story of soil, sun, and tradition. Whether you’re sampling a bold Brunello, a smooth Vino Nobile, or a crisp Vernaccia, the region’s varietals are as diverse as its landscapes.
Good to know before your day trips from Florence
What are the best day trips from Florence, Italy?
Florence is the perfect base for exploring Tuscany and beyond. Some of the best day trips include:
- Pisa: Famous for its Leaning Tower and charming old town.
- Siena: A medieval city rich in history and art.
- San Gimignano: Known as the “Medieval Manhattan” for its tower-filled skyline.
- Cinque Terre: Stunning seaside villages along the Ligurian coast.
- Bologna: A food lover’s paradise with beautiful porticos.
- Chianti Wine Region: Rolling vineyard hills and wine tasting tours.
- Lucca: A less crowded gem with intact Renaissance-era walls.
Can you do day trips from Florence without a car?
Absolutely. Florence is well-connected by regional and high-speed trains, making many destinations reachable in 1–2 hours. Some of the best car-free trips include Pisa, Siena, Bologna, and Venice. Bus tours and private local guides also offer organized group or private day trips.
How far can I travel on a day trip from Florence?
With Italy’s efficient train and highway system, you can comfortably travel up to 2–2.5 hours each way on a day trip. Popular locations like Siena (1h 15m), Pisa (1h), Bologna (1h), Venice (2h), and even Rome (1.5h on a high-speed train) fall within reach for a full and rewarding day.
Is Cinque Terre a good day trip from Florence?
Yes, Cinque Terre makes for a fantastic day trip. While it requires around 2.5 to 3 hours each way by train, the scenic coastal villages and hiking trails between the towns offer a stunning contrast to Florence’s Renaissance ambiance. It’s recommended to start early and visit 2–3 villages like Vernazza, Monterosso, or Manarola to make the most out of your visit.
What are the best day trips from Florence by train?
Traveling by train allows you to reach many destinations efficiently. Top train-connected day trips include:
- Pisa: ~1 hour.
- Siena: ~1h 30m (via bus or combo train/bus).
- Bologna: 40 minutes on high-speed trains.
- Rome: 1h 30m with high-speed services.
- Lucca: 1h 20m.
Can I take a day trip from Florence to Tuscany’s countryside?
Yes! Being in the heart of Tuscany, Florence makes access easy to places like Chianti, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and Val d’Orcia. While some can be reached with public buses and tours, renting a car or joining a guided wine tour offers more flexibility and panoramic routes through rolling vineyards and olive groves.
What is the most scenic train ride from Florence?
Florence to La Spezia (gateway to the Cinque Terre) is among the most scenic routes, especially the stretch near the Ligurian coast. Other picturesque rides include the train to Chiusi through the Val d’Orcia and the Florence–Lucca–Viareggio route, which showcases classic Tuscan views of countryside and hills.
What are the best restaurants on a day trip?
Make the most of your culinary journey at these top eateries:
- Siena: Osteria Le Logge – authentic Tuscan cuisine in the city center.
- Pisa: Osteria dei Cavalieri – rustic dishes and local wines.
- Bologna: Trattoria Anna Maria – traditional Bolognese recipes like tagliatelle al ragù.
- San Gimignano: Cum Quibus – known for refined regional cuisine.
- Lucca: Osteria Baralla – hearty Tuscan meals in a historic building.
What are the best hotels to stay in Florence?
To maximize convenience for day trips, stay near the Santa Maria Novella train station. Top-rated options include:
- Hotel L’Orologio: Chic hotel just steps from the station.
- c-hotels Ambasciatori: Excellent amenities and great location for early trains.
- NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa: Historic luxury, a short walk from train links.
- The Social Hub Florence Lavagnini: Modern, budget-friendly with a youthful vibe.
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