Day Trips from Florence – 10 Best Destinations to Visit in One Day
The 15 Best Day Trips from Florence: A Complete Guide to Exploring Tuscany and Beyond
Florence is a masterpiece in itself, but sometimes the best way to appreciate it is to take a break. Thanks to its central location in Tuscany, Florence is the perfect starting point for unforgettable day trips to nearby cities, countryside, and coastal treasures.
In this guide, you’ll find the 15 best day trips from Florence, whether you’re traveling by train, joining a tour, or exploring on your own. From Pisa to Chianti, Cinque Terre to Fiesole, we’ve got your perfect side adventure covered.
🧭 Why Take Day Trips from Florence?
Florence makes for a fantastic base, not just because it’s stunning—but because it’s so well connected. Here’s why day trips from Florence are a traveler’s secret weapon:
- 🚄 Excellent transport connections to Tuscany and beyond
- 🏛 Access to UNESCO cities, wine estates, and medieval villages
- 🛏️ Enjoy new experiences without changing hotels
- 📸 Perfect for photography, food, and cultural immersion
Whether you’re in Florence for 3 days or 2 weeks, you’ll be surprised how much you can experience beyond the city walls.
🚆 How to Get Around for a Day Trip
Train Travel
Florence’s Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station is a major rail hub. With fast regional trains, many destinations are within 1 to 2 hours.
- Best for: Pisa, Lucca, Arezzo, Bologna, Rome
- Apps to use: Trenitalia, Italo, Trainline
Bus Options
Some towns not served well by rail (like San Gimignano) are accessible by bus. BusItalia and FlixBus are commonly used.
Driving & Car Rental
A rental car offers freedom, especially for wine regions or scenic countryside (like Val d’Orcia). Make sure you’re confident with Italian road rules.
When a Guided Tour is Worth It
Tours are great for skipping transport stress. Most include hotel pickup, skip-the-line entries, and meals.
Combo Tours: Are They Worth the Price?
Yes—if you’re short on time. Pisa + Lucca or Siena + San Gimignano make great one-day combos.
🌟 The 15 Best Day Trips from Florence (Main List)
1. Pisa
Famous for its Leaning Tower, Pisa is a must-see that also offers historic architecture and charming riverside walks.
- Distance: 1h by train
- Highlights: Leaning Tower, Cathedral, Baptistery, River Arno
- Pro Tip: Go early or late to avoid crowds
2. Siena
Siena feels like a time machine to the Middle Ages. Its Duomo and Piazza del Campo are among Italy’s best.
- Distance: 1h 15m by bus or tour
- Highlights: Siena Cathedral, Torre del Mangia, Palio (July & August)
3. Chianti Wine Region
Rolling hills, cypress trees, stone farmhouses, and world-class wine—Chianti is Tuscany distilled.
- Distance: ~1h by car or guided tour
- Highlights: Wine tastings, olive oil, castles, Greve in Chianti
4. San Gimignano
This hilltop town is known for its medieval towers and white Vernaccia wine.
- Distance: 1h 15m by car
- Highlights: Tower climb, gelato, artisan shops
5. Cinque Terre
A bit further afield, but perfect for coastal lovers. You’ll visit pastel-colored villages clinging to cliffs.
- Distance: 2.5h by train (with transfers)
- Highlights: Vernazza, Riomaggiore, scenic hikes, Ligurian seafood
6. Lucca
Lucca is peaceful, bike-friendly, and less touristy. Perfect for architecture and slow travel.
- Distance: 1h 20m by train
- Highlights: City walls, Puccini’s house, piazzas, Roman ruins
7. Arezzo
Often overlooked, Arezzo is filled with Renaissance art and antique markets.
- Distance: 1h by train
- Highlights: Piero della Francesca frescoes, Piazza Grande
8. Fiesole
Just minutes from Florence, Fiesole offers panoramic views, Etruscan and Roman ruins.
- Distance: 30 min by bus
- Highlights: Roman theater, sunset views, peaceful walks
9. Val d’Orcia
Cypress-lined roads, vineyards, and villages like Pienza and Montepulciano. Rent a car or go with a tour.
- Distance: ~2h by car
- Highlights: Wine tasting, landscapes, UNESCO towns
10. Bologna
Food capital of Italy with historic arcades and energetic vibes.
- Distance: 35-45 min by train
- Highlights: Tagliatelle al ragù, Piazza Maggiore, university town feel
11. Verona
Known for Romeo and Juliet, Verona also boasts Roman ruins and a charming old town.
- Distance: 1h 30m by train
- Highlights: Arena di Verona, Juliet’s balcony, piazzas
12. Milan
Italy’s fashion hub also features Da Vinci’s Last Supper and Gothic wonders.
- Distance: 1h 45m by train
- Highlights: Milan Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
13. Rome
A long day, but possible with high-speed trains. For the ambitious!
- Distance: 1h 30m (fast train)
- Highlights: Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain
14. Florence Surroundings
Visit Boboli Gardens, Castello di Nipozzano, or Villa Medici just outside the city.
- Distance: 15–30 min
- Highlights: Wine tasting, gardens, Medici legacy
15. Hidden Gems
Think less-traveled routes like Cortona, Montefioralle, or Vinci.
- Recommended for: Those seeking quiet authenticity
🧳 Best Day Trips from Florence by Train
| Destination | Duration | Direct Train? | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pisa | 1h | ✅ | Frequent |
| Siena | 1h 30m | 🚫 (via Empoli) | Often |
| Lucca | 1h 20m | ✅ | Moderate |
| Arezzo | 1h | ✅ | Frequent |
| Bologna | 45m | ✅ (high-speed) | Very often |
| Cinque Terre | 2h 30m | 🚫 (with transfer) | Varies |
🍷 Best Day Trips for Wine Lovers
- Chianti: Wine, views, and vineyards
- San Gimignano: Vernaccia and charm
- Val d’Orcia: Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
Tours to consider:
- Chianti full-day wine tour with lunch
- Montalcino & Montepulciano combo tour
👨👩👧👦 Best Family-Friendly Day Trips
- Lucca: Safe and fun to bike around
- Fiesole: Nature, history, short ride
- Boboli Gardens: Close and relaxed
Tips:
- Bring snacks and water
- Choose short train rides (<1.5h)
🔄 Can I Combine Multiple Destinations in One Day?
Yes! Some great combos:
- Pisa + Lucca (by train)
- Siena + San Gimignano (via tour)
- Chianti + Wine Estate (car or tour)
Map your route and depart early!
❌ Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Your Day Trip
- Not checking train/bus schedules ahead of time
- Trying to do too much
- Booking tours too late (they fill up!)
- Forgetting to reserve major sights (like Leaning Tower)
📊 Table Summary of Day Trips
| Destination | Travel Mode | Duration | Ideal For |
| Pisa | Train | 1h | Iconic photos |
| Siena | Bus | 1h 15m | History lovers |
| Chianti | Car/Tour | 1h | Wine & countryside |
| Cinque Terre | Train | 2.5h | Coastal adventures |
| Lucca | Train | 1h 20m | Families, relaxers |
| Arezzo | Train | 1h | Art and antiques |
❓ FAQ – Day Trips from Florence
Can I visit Cinque Terre in one day?
Yes, but it’s a long day. Go early, return late. A guided tour simplifies logistics.
Should I rent a car for day trips?
Only if visiting wine regions or rural areas. For cities, trains are faster and easier.
What is the best day trip from Florence?
Pisa is most iconic, but Chianti and Siena offer deeper experiences.
Are guided tours better than going solo?
Depends on your style. Tours handle transport, tickets, and sometimes meals.
Is it possible to visit multiple towns in one day?
Yes—especially Pisa + Lucca or Siena + San Gimignano.
📌 Final Tips for Making the Most of Your Florence Day Trips
- Book train tickets in advance for peak days
- Join a guided tour if you want a stress-free experience
- Leave early in the morning to maximize time
- Check opening hours of sights (especially Mondays)
- Download offline maps and translation tools
🎯 Conclusion: Let Florence Be Your Launchpad
Florence isn’t just a destination—it’s a gateway to some of the most beautiful and fascinating places in Italy. With these 15 day trips, you’ll get the perfect mix of culture, food, nature, and relaxation—all in a single day.
Ready to explore? Let’s go.
