From Tuscan landscapes & charming medieval towns to top food & wine destinations. Discover the best day trips from Florence and check our top 15 Florence day trips ideas.
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Discover the Best Day Trips from Florence and Check Our Top 15 Florence Day Trips Tips
Florence, the heart of Tuscany and the birthplace of Renaissance is a world famous city filled with art, history, and architecture. Even though there are many things to do in Florence Italy for any traveler, the city is also a perfect based location for many unforgettable day trips thanks to its perfect location. Here are 15 wonderful day trips from Florence to learn and enjoy the best places to visit in Italy.
Siena & San Gimignano: Explore the Ancient Medieval Towns of Tuscany
Siena and San Gimignano is among the most popular day trips from Florence for a reason.
Siena’s history dated far back to the Etruscan period (900–400 BC) but the city really flourished during the Middle Ages together with Florence as the banking center of Italy and Europe. Now you can still admire its richness through well-preserved architecture in the historical center.
Antique buildings with red old bricks, narrow uphill cobblestone streets leading to Piazza del Campo (the famous square of Palio di Siena – horse racing festival) will make any traveler to Siena feel as if they step back in time to the city’s glorious day.
The most known symbol of Siena is the Duomo di Siena, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The cathedral is decorated with intricate sculptures, mesmerizing mosaics, and magnificent marble pillars. The beauty of Siena has taken the heart of many movie lovers through the famous movie “Letters to Juliet”.
On the journey back from Siena to Florence, San Gimignano is a must-see stop. Located at the top of Tuscany hill, San Gimignano was once a wealthy town with multiple towers, each representing a different noble family of the town (nowadays, 14 towers still remain from the original 72 structures).
San Gimignano offers breathtaking panoramic views of its surrounding landscape that is simply unforgettable. From here, you will see endless rolling hills, vineyards, and olive fields, all dotted throughout the landscape.
To reach Siena, you can take the direct train from Florence that will last around 1 hour. However, please notice that Siena train station is not located in the historical center, so you would need to take an additional bus to the center, or walk (a bit uphill) for around 20-30 minutes. To reach San Gimignano, you can take the train to Poggibonsi, then a bus to San Gimignano.
Otherwise, you can contact us and we will arrange a smooth private tour with a professional driver and private tour guide for you to fully enjoy the beauty of Siena and San Gimignano!
Lucca & Pisa: Discover the Quaint Town of Lucca and Climb on Pisa Leaning Tower
It is inarguable that The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the most instantly recognizable symbol of Italy. Pisa tower is a freestanding bell tower, part of the cathedral complex in Pisa. Construction of the Leaning Tower started in 1173 but due to wars and financial troubles, it finally took nearly 200 years to complete. As a consequence of an unstable foundation built on soft ground, the tower began to lean even before it was completed. The tower itself has an technical architect committee to ensure that the tower will remain at a stable leaning angle and avoid falling over.
Besides taking remarkable photos with the leaning tower, visitors can also climb on the tower (294 steps) but booking a ticket in advance is a must, due to the strict regulation on the number of tourists on the tower.
Lucca, a lovely walled city (20 minutes drive from Pisa) has a very unique serene atmosphere compared to other Tuscany cities. Lucca’s most prominent feature is its well-preserved Renaissance wall, which encircles the historic city center. Originally constructed as ancient fortifications during the 16th and 17th centuries, now Lucca wall provides a perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll or bike ride with panoramic views of the surrounding Tuscan landscape. Time stops in Lucca and you will hardly see anyone in a hurry in this tranquil beautiful town.
The Taste of Italian Finest Chianti Wine: Chianti Italy Wine Tours from Florence
If you are seeking the taste of Italy’s finest wine, the Chianti wine tour is an experience not to be missed. Lying in the heart of Tuscany, the Chianti region is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and, of course, its world-famous wines. Rolling hills adorned with vineyards, cypress ranges, olive groves, and picturesque villages, a journey through Chianti promises not only exquisite wine but also an immersion into Italian culture and tradition.
Chianti Classico, the region’s most famous wine designation, is made primarily from the Sangiovese grapes. Beautiful Tuscan weather gives Chianti deep red hue, full body and complex flavors of cherry, leather and gentle spice. During the Chianti Tuscany wine tours, you’ll have the opportunity to visit several top wineries carefully selected by us, where passionate winemakers will guide you through tastings and share their generational stories of winemaking.
The wine tastings are often paired with artisanal cheeses and locally sourced delicacies, and can also include a light lunch of typical Tuscany dishes to complete a gastronomic experience that showcases Tuscany’s rich culinary heritage.
Escape the Crowds in Arezzo and Cortona
Arezzo, located in the eastern part of Tuscany, has roots dating back to the Etruscan civilization and is home to an array of stunning edifices from different eras.
One of the must-see attractions in Arezzo is the Basilica di San Francesco, which houses Piero della Francesca’s masterpiece, “The Legend of the True Cross.”
If you have a deep interest in history, the Roman Amphitheater in Arezzo is not to be missed. Despite being largely in ruins, the theatre is the biggest Roman ruins in Tuscany and offers a glimpse into the city’s important role during the Roman Empire period.
Cortona is a charming hilltop town of Arezzo province, with stunning views of the Valdichiana valley. Its narrow, winding streets are lined with medieval buildings, making it a delightful place to wander and get lost in quiet and relaxing day trips from Florence.
If you want to understand better the glory history of Arezzo, Cortona and Etruscan culture, our professional local guide are happy to accompany you to this hidden gem of Tuscany to learn more about what this special area offered even before the Roman Empire period.
Tuscany Wine Tours in Val d’Orcia and Montalcino: The Towns of an Exceptional Italian Brunello Wine
Val d’Orcia is the most symbolic landscape of Tuscany countryside, stretching from the charming town of Pienza to the historic city of Siena. The medieval towns of Pienza and San Quirico d’Orcia are the highlights of Val d’Orcia with stunning panoramic views of Tuscan hills, curving road of cypress trees, and delicious local cuisine (e.g. pecorino cheese) in family-run trattoria’s (local restaurant).
Just a short drive from Pienza lies the town of Montalcino, a paradise for wine enthusiasts with its legendary Brunello di Montalcino wine. This iconic red wine of Tuscany is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, and is celebrated not only for its remarkable flavor profile but also for its rich heritage and complex production process. The strict requirement of Brunello requires aging of minimum four years, including at least two years in oak barrels—a detail that significantly enhances its complexity. Taking a private Brunello wine tour to learn about the history of this world wide recognized top level wine and participate in intensive tasting to enjoy the highest level of Italian art of winemaking. A wine tour of Brunello di Montalcino is definitely one of the best Tuscany wine tours that any wine lover can ask for.
Cinque Terre Day Trip From Florence: Discover the Colorful Fishing Villages of Cinque Terre
Day trip to the beach is always a perfect option to spend time in the beautiful nature of Italy. Cinque Terre with stunning coastal region with breathtaking views, vibrant colorful villages is the nature best option for day trips from Florence. Cinque Terre, as the name suggests in Italian, includes five picturesque villages — Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Cinque Terre is renowned for its colorfully painted houses perched on cliffs, idyllic beaches, and steep hiking trails that connect the villages.
Each of the five villages of Cinque Terre has its own charm and atmosphere. While Monterosso al Mare is the largest, most suitable for swimming, Vernazza is often considered the most beautiful of the villages of all towns with a small harbor filled with colorful fishing boats.
Manarola is famous for its romantic sunsets and connects to Riomaggiore with Via dell’Amore, a scenic coastal path that offers stunning views along the Mediterranean.
Despite its beauty, reaching Cinque Terre on a day trip from Florence requires some effort if you use public transportation. From Florence, visitors must take a train to Pisa, then to La Spezia and finally transfer to a regional train that connects to Cinque Terre. Between the 5 villages, visitors can choose hiking (which requires some physical strength) or regional train.
If you would like to visit Cinque Terre in a most cofortable way and don’t want to worry about the transportation, our private tour with professional driver and a local guide will be the best option. A boat tour instead of a train ride to move between villages in Cinque Terre can also be added to make your experience extra special and joyful.
Day trips from Florence to Cinque Terre can also be conveniently combined with a quick visit of Pisa (check more information here).
Florence to Venice Day Trip. St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Venice Gondola Ride & Murano Glass-Making Tour
The beauty of Venice can hardly be described fully by words and a visit to Venice is always love at first sight. If you are planning what to do in Italy for Europe trip and will travel to Florence (or Milan), don’t skip Venice as it is much more than a tourist location. Located in the Northern East side of Italy, days trip from Florence to Venice is a wonderful option for travelers to experience two best places to visit in Italy.
The direct fast train from Florence to Venice is about 2h30 minutes, with 2-3 departures every hour from both Trenitalia and Italo.
Once you arrive in Venice Santa Lucia train station (which is in the historical center of Venice), be ready to get lost among thousands of charming and colorful Venice canals.
If you are interested in the history of this beautiful city, which has always been an important Italian port kingdom since the Roman Empire, you can book our private guided tour to discover all the best things to do in Venice, including skip-the-line tickets to the St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge Palace, detailed explanation of historical landmarks such as Piazza San Marco, Rialto Bridge and Grand Canal and much more.
The tour can also include the visit of Doge Palace medieval prisons area and a private gondola ride and a visit to the Murano glass factory or colorful Burano island.
Milan: Visit Da Vinci’s Last Supper, La Scala Opera House, Italy’s Biggest Cathedral & Enjoy The Most Modern City In Italy
Milan, the fashion capital of the world, has more to offer than just a modern lifestyle. It’s also a city with rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant mixed culture. A day trip from Florence to Milan is easily facilitated by a direct fast train (1h30) from Florence station Santa Maria Novella to Milan central station.
Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of Milan and the Alps from the rooftop of Milan Duomo, Italy biggest Gothic church that took nearly six centuries to complete with its intricate façade and multiple statues.
On the right side of Duomo, you can admire the magnificent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – the world’s oldest shopping gallery with the highest level of luxury brands.
If you are an art and history lover, you can not skip “The Last Supper” painting of Leonardo da Vinci during your day trip to Milan. Due to its popularity, be sure to book your tickets in advance for this remarkable experience. For Opera lovers, La Scala, the world’s most famous Opera theater and its museum is the perfect destination to understand everything about Opera development. Within a short distance from La Scala, you can learn about Milan history from the Sforza Castle, the residence and fortress of Milan historical reigns.
Milan is the most modern city in Italy and you will immediately feel the vibe of Milan’s fast lifestyle right outside the central station. If you want to experience the city as a local, we offer a wide range of private and tailor-made tours with our top rated professional guide such as private tour Last Supper Milan, private tour of Duomo and Sforza Castle, especially the private kid-friendly tour of Milan Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci museum to create unforgettable memories for your family, and many other tours & experiences.
Day Trips from Florence to Rome, the Eternal City: Visit Rome and Vatican in One Day
Rome, the Eternal City, is a treasure of Italian history, culture, and architecture. With direct fast train connection of 1h30, a day trip from Florence to Rome is a perfect option to admire this magnificent Roman capital. While the city is quite large, we collect here the best things to do in Rome.
Starting your visit to Rome with the Colosseum, one of Rome’s most famous landmarks. This ancient Roman amphitheater is the biggest and most well-preserved amphitheater in the world, making all visitors praise the power of mighty Roman Empire.
Next to the Colosseum is the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, once the center of Roman public life with the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Titus, the Circus Maximus and many other ruins of imperial palaces that showcase Rome’s majestic past.
For the afternoon, head to Vatican City to visit Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museum, which hosts a vast collection of remarkable art pieces, including Michelangelo’s famous ceiling. Afterward, visiting St. Peter’s Basilica to admire its magnificent architecture from the inside or take a stroll around St. Peter’s Square.
On the way back, remember to pass by the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain to toss your coin into the fountain, wishing that you will return to this magnificent city.
Rome is undoubtedly the most visited city in Italy with millions of tourists every year, especially in high season. Therefore, remember to pre-book all of your necessary tickets well in advance. You can also contact us to organize your wonderful trip in Rome with our professional private tour guide in your preferred language and all necessary skip-the-line tickets, including but not limited to Colosseum tours and Colosseum underground tour, Vatican tours and more…
Accompanied by your private Rome guide that will make your experience informative & entertaining at the same time, you will learn precious knowledge about Rome, its history and its importance to the whole Western civilization.
Speed Up With Lamborghini Museum & Ferrari Factory Tour
Modena, the birthplace of Italian supercars, is a perfect location for a day trip from Florence for speed lovers.
Located in a 90-min drive from Florence, Modena is the place to learn everything from the starting days to the most excellent models of the two legendary sport cars: Lamborghini and Ferrari.
Enjoy a comprehensive visit to the car museums of the brands: Ferrari Museum and Lamborghini Museum to admire in real life the best models ever produced, as well as Ferrari Factory Tour & Lamborghini Factory Tour.
To apply all you have learnt into reality, speed up with Ferrari test drive near Ferrari Maranello area after full technical instruction of an expert.
Both Ferrari and Lamborghini Museum are not in the center of Modena City, so the train connection is not the best option.
If you would like to visit Modena and its super cars legendary story, don’t hesitate to contact us. We will prepare all the visits and test drive in advance to ensure your smooth trip to the land of world level speed.
Parma: Italian Gastronomy Capital. One of the Best Places to Go in Italy for Food Lovers
Parma is the home of the world’s finest prosciutto ham and aged cheese Parmigiano. Parma’s gastronomy is a legend at worldwide level for its curated and sophisticated culinary approach. The province imposes extremely strict regulation of production from breeds feeding to end production inspection of its signature Prosciutto and Parmigiano. Check our previous blog articles about Parma prosciutto and Parmigiano production for curious facts, best cheese & ham factories as well as detailed information about the history of these two famous products and their strict regulations.
Joining an in person visit to the family-owned Prosciutto and Parmigiano factory, you will learn in detail how Parmigiano Reggiano cheese is made and what is the real difference between Parmigiano Reggiano vs Parmesan. Meanwhile, the Parma ham tour will explain the ham’s strict aging process and how the breed is carefully selected to ensure the top-quality meat.
Modena, which is only 30-minute drive from Parma, is a perfect added option for travelers who want to learn more about Italian best balsamic vinegar, the world’s most expensive condiment known as Black Gold.
12. Bologna Food Tour For Food and Architecture Lovers
There is no doubt that ragu alla bolognese is the most beloved sauce for many Italian dishes, from spaghetti bolognese to lasagna. So why is it called bolognese sauce? It is simply thanks to the land it comes from: Bologna, one of best places to visit in Italy for food lovers.
Well connected with Florence by both car and train (40-min by train and 1 hour by car), with its famous bolognese sauce, tortellini and mortadella, Bologna will not disappoint travelers searching for authentic Italian cuisine. Boglona belongs to the same region with Parma and Modena, therefore, joining Bologna food tour, you can also learn and taste the best quality Parma prosciutto ham, Parmigiano and excellent Modena Balsamic vinegar.
The medieval historic center of Bologna with 180 towers will make the day trip from Milan to Bologna even more fascinating. Bologna holds the record of the world longest porticoes (UNESCO heritage) and its Neptune Fountain and the ‘’Two Towers’’ (the symbol of the city which is considered the twin of Pisa tower due to its leaning, similar like the famous Pisa Leaning Tower) are simply marvelous.
Perugia: Ancient Etruscan City and a Chocolate Wonderland
Perugia is the capital of the Umbria region, Italy’s best-kept secret and the quiet sibling of Tuscany. With 2 hour drive (or 2 hour by train) from Florence, you will potentially be one of the rare tourists in this enchanting city.
Perugia was one of the most important cities of Etruscan society (together with Arezzo), then it belonged to the Roman Empire and afterwards, heavily influenced by the Pope. Its history is vividly depicted by its two perimeter walls – the inner Etruscan with 7 ancient gates built of massive stone (most preserved heritage of Etruscan period) and an outer intact Medieval ring built under the Roman Empire over several kilometers.
Visitors to Perugia will feel as if they return to medieval time, thanks to its lack of modern life intervention within the historical center. Perugia is also an important art city in Italy with its famous National Gallery of Umbria, which displays many artwork of Perugino, the teacher of famous painter Raphael in Florence.
Last but not least, Perugia is a wonderland for worldwide chocolate lovers. Its famous Perugina Chocolate House is considered by CNN as one the top five destinations for chocolate lovers. Every year, Perugia also hosts the EuroChocolate festival (in October) for 10 days with chocolate art displays, experimental chocolate tastings, street performances, and chocolate sculpting. EuroChocolate is the busiest time in Perugia and the festival itself is the biggest chocolate festival in Europe.
Forte Dei Marmi: Relax on the Most Luxurious Beach in Tuscany
Forte dei Marmi is considered as one of the most beautiful beaches on the Italian Tyrrhenian coast. Known for its pristine beaches, upscale shops, and vibrant nightlife, this charming town attracts travelers from around the world looking for total relaxation. Forte dei Marmi offers expansive sandy shores with crystal clear and elegant beach clubs.
One of the highlights of Forte dei Marmi is the scenic promenade that runs in parallel to the beach- a perfect choice for leisurely walks, jogging, or cycling while enjoying picturesque views of the sea. The most unique character of Forte dei Marmi is its luxury and upscale vibe with many high-end fashion boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Bolgheri Wine: The Innovative Spirit of Super Tuscan Wines
Many visitors seeking for Tuscany wine tours head directly to Chianti and Montalcino for their global fame, but Tuscany is also the land of the most inspiring red wine in the world: Super Tuscan Wines (also known as Bolgheri DOC) from the Bolgheri area.
Laying on the coastline of Toscany near the province of Livorno, Bolgheri area has a special terroir with warm Mediterranean, sandy and rocky soil, somehow mimicking the condition of the Bordeaux wine region in France. Seeing this potential, Bolgheri wine makers decided to cultivate the famous French grapes of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to mix with the local grape of Sangiovese.
The road to glory of this new blend from Bolgheri is as rocky as its landscape. Due to the strict restriction of the Italian authorities, this new wines from Bolgheri originally could only be classified as IGT label, which is equivalent to middle range quality wine in Italian market perception. 10 years later, finally Bolgheri wine made its name known. In a Decanter blind tasting of 1978, Bolgheri wine was awarded as the n. 1 Cabernet blend of the world, bringing a glorious and fruitful result to the hardworking winemakers of the Bolgheri wine region.
With this momentum, Bolgheri continues to produce the best level red wine of the world, present in the top list of many leading wine magazines and wine collectors. Visitors to Bolgheri will have the opportunities to not only try the best Super Tuscan wine with a perfect flavor and body, but also to learn more about the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit of this wine region. Bolgheri is where wine, design (check out the Petra surreal winery building) and Tuscany weather all combine to create a promising land full of energy.
We hope that our ideas for 15 best day trips from Florence will inspire you to discover Florence, Tuscany and Italy out of ordinary route. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us by email or WhatsApp for any suggestions or support to plan your next tailor-made and stress-free Italian vacation.
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