Siena, one of the most charming cities in Tuscany, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Florence if you have an extra day to explore the surrounding area. Located just 30 miles south of Florence, Siena offers a unique blend of history, art, and architecture that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.
In this all-you-need guide, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know for the perfect 1-day trip from Florence to Siena.
Whether you’re interested in exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sight of the Medieval town of Siena, joining a tour, or simply taking a public transportation, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started!
Why Visit Siena from Florence?
Siena is a beautiful city located just 85 kilometers (a little over 50 miles) away from Florence in Italy – making for an easy one-day trip from famed Firenze! It is a perfect day trip destination that offers a lot to explore and experience. Here are some reasons why you should visit Siena from Florence:
- Medieval architecture: Siena is famous for its medieval architecture that includes cathedrals, palaces, and town squares. From the Siena Cathedral to the Palazzo Pubblico, the architecture depicts the rich history and culture of the city.
- Renaissance masterpieces: Siena also boasts some stunning Renaissance masterpieces that include frescoes and paintings. The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Siena and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo are two places that showcase some of the best Renaissance art in the city.
- Unmatched scenery: Surrounded by rolling hills and dotted with vineyards, Siena has a breathtaking countryside that is perfect for a scenic drive or leisurely walk. The region is famous for its Chianti wine and olive oil, which makes it a top destination for food and wine lovers.
- Cultural festivals: Siena is famous for its cultural festivals that take place throughout the year. The Palio di Siena, a horse race that takes place twice a year in the Piazza del Campo, is a popular event that attracts both locals and tourists.
- Easy transportation: Getting from Florence to Siena is easy, thanks to various transportation options available. You can take a bus, train, or even hire a car to explore the city at your own pace.
Experience the beauty, history, and culture by taking a day trip from Florence to Siena. Don’t miss out on the stunning architecture, Renaissance art, scenic countryside, cultural festivals, and easy transportation options that make Siena a must-visit destination when in Italy. For more information read our guide on the best things to do in Siena and don’t miss the best Siena wine tours.
How to Travel from Siena to Florence in One Day?
Are you planning a day trip to Siena and wondering how to get back to Florence in the same day? Good news – it’s easy and can be done via car, train or bus. Here’s what you need to know about each option.
Florence to Siena by car
If you’re traveling by car, the journey from Siena to Florence takes around one hour. However, it’s important to note that driving in Italian cities can be stressful for someone inexperienced. Additionally, parking in Florence can be difficult, so if you’re not comfortable with this, it’s best to consider other options.
Taking the train from Florence to Siena
Taking the train is one of the most popular options for traveling between Siena and Florence. The train journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes and trains run regularly throughout the day. The train from Siena to Florence stops at Santa Maria Novella station, which is in the heart of Florence and close to many popular tourist attractions.
Travelling by bus to Siena from Florence
By bus or shuttle: Another option is to take the bus from Siena to Florence. The journey takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes and there are regular buses throughout the day. The bus station in Florence is located on the outskirts of the city, so you’ll need to take a taxi or public transport to reach the city center.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to check the schedules and book in advance to ensure availability. Remember, if you’re planning a day trip to Siena, you’ll want to leave early in the morning to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
Perfect Itinerary for Siena from Florence, Italy
If you’re planning a day trip to Siena from Florence, Italy, we have got you covered with this ultimate itinerary create by Winalist’s local team, based here in Tuscany! This itinerary is made for you to travel two days (one day of travel, one day of visit of Siena then back to Florence) but feel free to adapt it depending on the time you have there.
Depart from the romantic Florence, Italy
Florence is a romantic and dreamy city in the Tuscan region of Italy, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, Mediterranean landscapes, and local cuisine and many Tuscany wineries to visit. Many describe it as the “cradle of the Renaissance” because of its central role in the flourishing of art, literature, and science during the 14th and 15th centuries. If you’re based here and what to explore Pisa, you’re in luck! Pisa is a quick and easy day trip from Florence. Discover our guide on the best things to do in Florence and top rated Florence wine tours.
Stop at Ambrogio E Giovanni Folonari Tenute for a tasting
The Ambrogio and Giovanni Folonari Tenute was born in 2000 to continue the family winemaking tradition, which dates back to the end of the 18th century, under the banner of renewed excellence. Today the company is led by Giovanni Folonari and, with its five Estates, encloses and expresses the best of the Tuscan DOCs between tradition and innovation. There you’ll be able to discover all the greatest wines that Tuscany has to offer.
Discover the historic village of Greve in Chianti
Greve in Chianti, often considered the gateway to the Chianti wine region, is a must-visit for any wine lover exploring Tuscany. This charming town is known for its picturesque main square, Piazza Matteotti, which is surrounded by quaint shops, cafes, and wine bars. Greve in Chianti serves as an excellent base for exploring the world-famous Chianti Classico wine region. Here, you can embark on wine tours that take you through luxuriant vineyards and historic estates, offering tastings of some of Italy’s finest wines. The town also hosts an annual wine festival, making it an ideal destination for oenophiles. With its combination of beautiful scenaries, rich history, and exceptional wine, Greve in Chianti offers a well-rounded Tuscan experience. For more activities, don’t miss the best Greve in Chianti wineries to enhance your visit.
Have lunch in a winery or in vineyards
If you want to make the most out of your trip, then having lunch in a winery or even in the middle of the vineyards is a great way to learn more about wine and how to pair them with food. Moreover, food in wineries are often handmade so you won’t have to worry about finding the perfect restaurant that’s not a touristic attraction. Discover and book your next wine-meal on Winalist:
Arrive in Siena and explore the city
Famous for its stunning Piazza del Campo, where the historic Palio horse race takes place twice a year, Siena’s narrow streets and picturesque squares transport you back in time. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Siena Cathedral, with its intricate façade and beautiful interior featuring stunning artworks and mosaics.
After exploring the city’s landmarks, relax in one of the local trattorias and savor traditional Sienese dishes like pici pasta and panforte. Insider tip: Plan your visit to coincide with the quieter hours of the day to fully appreciate the city’s charm without the crowds.
Discover our perfect Florence to Siena itinerary through the Tuscan vineyards and our guide to the Best things to do in Siena to explore the best Siena wine tours.
Just in case you’re planning to visit other cities or wineries in Italy during your trip to Chianti vineyards, Winalist has you covered with top-notch places, carefully selected by our team.
Good to know before traveling from Florence to Siena
How far is Sienna from Florence?
Siena is approximately 75 kilometers (about 47 miles) south of Florence. By car, the journey takes around 1.5 hours via the scenic SR222 route through the Chianti region, which offers beautiful landscapes and charming villages along the way. Alternatively, you can take the faster route via the Raccordo Autostradale Firenze-Siena (RA3), which takes about 1 hour. If you prefer public transportation, regular buses and trains connect Florence and Siena. The bus ride typically takes around 1.5 hours, while the train journey can vary between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the service.
Both travel options provide a comfortable and convenient way to explore these two iconic Tuscan cities. Whether by car or public transport, the trip between Florence and Siena is a delightful part of your Tuscany travel guide, offering numerous opportunities to discover hidden gems along the way.
Can I visit Siena from Florence in a day?
Yes, you can visit Siena from Florence in one day! In fact, Siena is a great day trip option for those visiting Florence and looking for an awesome 1-day Florence day-trip itinerary. There are multiple ways to travel from Florence to Siena, including taking the bus or train.
The bus is a decent option, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, while the train takes a little bit longer. Once in Siena, be sure to visit the historical center and Palazzo Pubblico.
A tour is also a great option if you want to learn more about the city’s history and culture. Don’t miss the chance to see this stunning Italian city on your next visit to Florence!
