15 Incredible Day Trips from Florence, Italy and How to Visit

Florence is one of the most popular and beautiful cities in Italy. Famous for its art, culture, history, and architecture. Exploring Florence is like walking around the most beautiful outdoor museum.

There is so much to see and do in Florence, but the city also makes an excellent base to explore more of Tuscany and Italy.

We’ve rounded up 15 of the best day trips from Florence to make the most of the city’s proximity to other great Italian attractions.

Take your pick from full-day excursions to nearby cities like Pisa, Bologna, and Siena or quick visits to enchanting rustic towns in Tuscany – one of Italy’s great road trip destinations.

We also included some practical information on the best way to get around and recommended tours where we think they are good value or make sense over self-guided day trips.

Train

Trains are the easiest and fastest way to get from Florence to neighboring provinces like Arezzo and Bologna.

The problem is that not all towns are reachable by train. This is largely because small towns and villages don’t have train stations. Or, the train station is some distance from the town requiring additional transport.

This means that once you reach your destination, you still need to take a taxi or bus to get to the center of the town.

Bus

Taking the bus is the most budget-friendly way to travel around Italy. Yet, it can also be the slowest.

Buses, especially regional buses, can be unreliable as they don’t always stick to a strict schedule or offer minimal services. So, you could spend a good portion of your day waiting for the bus to arrive. That said, some more remote day trips from Florence are only accessible by bus or car.

Self Drive

The most convenient and comfortable way to travel around Tuscany is by rental car. You get to pack as many sites as possible into the day while traveling at your own pace. It’s also a lovely way to enjoy the Tuscan countryside.

The biggest drawback is that navigating the streets in Florence can be challenging. You need to be careful not to enter any of the Zona a Traffico LImitato (ZTL) zones. These restricted traffic areas aim to reduce traffic and pollution in busy areas and preserve Italy’s historical buildings. They are monitored by cameras, and there are hefty fines if you don’t have a permit to enter the zone.

The good news is that you can find rental companies at almost all train stations and the airport.

Find the Best Car Rental Deals for Italy

If you want to rent a car from Florence for a day or two, Discover Cars have the best local deals, no hidden fees, and offers free cancellation.

Tip: Always check if you have car rental insurance included on your travel insurance or with your credit card company before paying any additional to the rental car company. 

Search for the Best Car Rental Deals in Italy.

Private Driver

If you don’t want to self-drive, renting a car with a local driver for up to 8 people for any destination is possible. Prices start as little as €55. See here for details and bookings.

Tours

Joining a tour is perfect if you’re limited on time and want to visit as many places as you can without doing any of the planning yourself.

Another advantage is that tours include transportation, which means you don’t have to worry about getting from one place to the next. They’re also always accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.

Many tour companies offer full day trips from Florence, including San Gimignano, Siena, and Pisa. Many combine multiple destinations in one trip. We give recommendations where good tours are available.

Arezzo

1hr by Train

Arezzo is a charming Tuscan town that is a little less tourist-dense than towns like Pisa. It’s a great half-day trip from Florence if you’re short on time.

Around an hour by train from Florence, Arezzo is a great place to experience authentic Italian culture and history.

Things to See and Do in Arezzo

• Piazza Grande: Arezzo’s main square is a must-visit, with stunning medieval architecture and a vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the monthly antique market held here.
• Basilica di San Francesco: This Gothic church is home to stunning frescoes by Piero della Francesca, a famous Italian Renaissance painter.
• Museo Archeologico Nazionale Gaio Cilnio Mecenate: This museum houses an impressive collection of Etruscan artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, and sculptures.

Recommended Tours in Arezzo

• Dining Experience at a Local’s Home: 4-course private dining experience and exclusive cooking demonstration.
• Val di Chiana Wine & Food Tasting Experience: 2.5-hour wine and food tasting experience in an exclusive Tuscan villa in the Tuscan countryside.

How to Get to Arezzo from Florence

Trains run regularly from Florence to Arezzo. The journey takes around an hour up to an hour and a half, depending on the service.

Once you arrive in Arezzo, the town is easily walkable, and most of the sights are located within a short distance of each other.

Cortona

1.45 hrs by car or public transport from Florence or 40 minutes from Arezzo

Cortona is a charming authentic Tuscan town close to the Umbrian border known for its stunning views, rich history, and delicious food – the beautiful town featured in the movie “Under the Tuscan Sun”.

Like Arezzo, Cortona was a former Etruscan town. Some top things to see in Cortona include the Piazza della Repubblica, the Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca, and the Santa Margherita Sanctuary.

Things to See and Do in Cortona

• Visit the Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca: See a stunning collection of Etruscan artifacts, including pottery, sculptures, and jewelry.
• Explore the Piazza della Repubblica: The main square in Cortona is surrounded by beautiful medieval buildings, including the Palazzo Comunale and the Palazzo Casali.
• Take in the views: Cortona is perched on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Be sure to walk along the town’s walls and enjoy the views.

See more of Cortona on a guided E-bike tour: 3-4 hrs. The easy bike tour will take you to some off-the-beaten-track attractions in Cortona, away from the tourist crowds, including Basilica di Santa Margherita and Eremo Le Celle. See here for tour details.

Special Tips

• Try the local specialties: Cortona is known for its delicious food and high quality ingredients, including wild boar, truffles, and pecorino cheese.
• Visit during the Tuscan Sun Festival: This festival takes place in August. It’s a celebration of music, art, and food.

How Long to Spend in Cortona

Cortona is a small town; a half-day is plenty to see the main sights if combined with Arezzo.

However, if you want a more leisurely day to soak up the atmosphere or have a lazy lunch, or want to incorporate some of the nearby attractions, such as Lake Trasimeno, or the town of Montepulciano, you may want to allow a full day.

Tip: Cortona and Assisi are often visited as a combined day trip.

How to Get to Cortona from Florence

Cortona is located south of Florence, about a 1.5-hour drive from the city. Alternatively, you can take a train to Camucia-Cortona station – approximately 1.45 hr and then take a bus or taxi to the town, approximately 3 km from the station.

Cortona & Assisi Combined Day Tour from Florence: 11.5 hrs – includes:

• All transportation and guides
• Admission to the Church of San Francesco, the Church of Santa Chiara, and the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli
• Free time in Cortona
• A stop at Passignano sul Trasimeno for panoramic pictures.

Get Tour Details

Assisi

2-2.5 hrs by train, depending on the service

Assisi is a stunning medieval town in the Umbria region of Italy that’s rich in history and culture and an easy day trip from Florence.

The town is famous for being the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of Italy, and there’s plenty to see and do.

From the stunning Basilica di San Francesco to the medieval fortress of Rocca Maggiore, whether you’re interested in art and history or want to explore a beautiful Italian town, Assisi is worth a visit.

Things to See and Do in Assisi

• Basilica di San Francesco: This is the town’s most famous landmark, home to stunning frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue. The basilica is divided into two levels, the Upper Church and the Lower Church.
• Rocca Maggiore: This medieval fortress offers amazing town and surrounding countryside views.
• Piazza del Comune: This is Assisi’s main square, and it’s surrounded by beautiful medieval buildings, including the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and the Temple of Minerva.

Tour Recommendations in Asissi

• Assisi Small Group Tour & St. Francis Basilica Visit: 3 hrs – See the highlights of Assisi with a guide, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi and the Duomo di San Rufino.
• Organic Balsamic Vinegar, Olive Oil & Wine Tour: 2 hrs – Visit a balsamic vinegar facility, century-old vineyards, olive groves, and an organic winery. 

How Long to Spend in Assisi

Assisi is a small town; a day trip is enough to see the highlights. However, if you want to explore the town in more depth or visit some nearby attractions, such as the Eremo delle Carceri or the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, you may want to spend more time here.

Bologna

40 minutes by train

Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, is one of Italy’s most atmospheric cities and only a short train ride from Florence. While we believe Bologna deserves more than a day, its proximity to Florence makes it a perfect day trip if Bologna wasn’t on your itinerary.

Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and magnificent cuisine, Bologna is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Italy, especially for food travelers.

There’s plenty to see and do in Bologna whether you’re interested in history, food, or just want to explore the beautiful Italian city that gave us so many loved Italian dishes – Bolognese, anyone?

Things to See and Do in Bologna

• Piazza Maggiore: This is the main square in Bologna and home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo Comunale.
• The Two Towers: These medieval towers symbolize Bologna and offer stunning city views.
• Mercato di Mezzo: This is a covered market that’s been around for centuries, and it’s the perfect place to try some of Bologna’s famous food, such as mortadella and tortellini.

Recommended Tours in Bologna

Bologna City Center Walking Tour: 2 hrs- A classic walking tour of the city center, visiting the main attractions.

Bologna Secret Food Tour: 3 hrs – Take a food tour of Bologna to taste and learn about flavorful ingredients, local produce, and a centuries-old passion for food in the country’s culinary capital.

Special Tips

• Visit during the Fiera di San Luca: This festival takes place in October. It’s one of the biggest events in Bologna, with food, music, and a huge fair.
• Try the gelato: Bologna is known for having some of the best gelato in Italy, so be sure to try some while you’re there.

How Long to Spend in Bologna

Bologna is a relatively small city; a day trip is enough to see the main sights. However, if you want to explore the city in more depth or take a food tour, you may want to spend more time here. If you have the time, allow for an overnight stay at least. The food is that good.

How to Get to Bologna from Florence

Bologna is about a 40-minute train ride from Florence, and trains run regularly throughout the day.

Tours to Bologna from Florence

Full-Day Ferrari Museum Maranello and Bologna Private Tour from Florence: 9 hrs – Visit Museo Ferrari in Maranello with free time in Maranello and Bologna.

From Florence: Private Bologna Walking Tour with Lunch: 8 hrs – Experience the highlights of Bologna on this private sightseeing tour from Florence. Join a guided city walk, taste local foods, and ride on the San Luca Express. Includes tickets, lunch, transport, and more.

Chianti Wine Region

1 hr by car

The Chianti wine region is one of the most beautiful areas in Tuscany and one of the most romantic places in Italy.

Known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns, the Chianti region is full of history, culture, delicious food, and wine.

From wine tasting to exploring charming towns like Greve and Castellina in Chianti, there are plenty of reasons to do a day trip to the Chianti region.

Things to See and Do in Chianti

• Wine tasting: The Chianti region is famous for its wine, so you’ll find plenty of good wineries in the area and try some local wines.
• Visit Greve in Chianti: The charming town of Greve is located in the heart of the Chianti region. It’s home to a beautiful piazza, a weekly market, and some of the best restaurants in the area.
• Explore Castellina in Chianti: This medieval town is located on a hilltop, home to a beautiful castle, a museum, and some stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Special Tips

• Try the local specialties: The Chianti region is known for its delicious food, including porcini mushrooms and truffles, Tuscan porchetta (roast pork), Tuscan saffron, and pecorino cheese.
• Visit during the Chianti Classico Wine Festival: This festival takes place in September and is a great way to try some of the best wines in the region.

How Long to Spend in Chianti

The Chianti region is relatively small, and a day trip is enough to get a taste of the region (so to speak). However, if you want to explore more of the region and its extensive offering of wineries, beautiful landscapes, and quaint towns, you may want to plan for an overnight stay.

How to Get to Chianti from Florence

The Chianti region is not well connected by public transport, so self-driving (around an hour from Florence) or tours are the best way to get the most out of the region.

Tours from Florence to Chianti

There are lots of great tours from Florence to the Chianti Hills ranging from a few hours to a full day. See here for a full section of tours.

Cinque Terre

2.5 hrs by train

The Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Italy’s most famous and beautiful coastal regions (along with the Amalfi Coast). It’s also surprisingly accessible from Florence.

Known for the colorful five villages and stunning views, Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s most popular attractions. For this reason, we recommend spending at least two days (we have a 2 Day Cinque Terre Itinerary to get you started) to feel the ambiance beyond the day crowds.

But if you really can’t spare the time, a Cinque Terre day trip is more than possible and a good alternative.

Things to See and Do in Cinque Terre

• Hiking: The Cinque Terre is famous for its hiking trails, connecting the five towns and offering stunning coastline views. The most popular trail is the Sentiero Azzurro, which runs from Riomaggiore to Monterosso al Mare.
• Visit the towns: Each of the five towns in the Cinque Terre has its own unique charm, from the colorful houses of Vernazza to the medieval castle in Corniglia.
• Enjoy the food: The Cinque Terre is known for its delicious seafood, pesto, and focaccia.

Special Tips

• Get an early start: Cinque Terre is a popular destination, so it’s best to get an early start to get the jump on the crowds.
• Take the train: While hiking is a great way to see the Cinque Terre, taking the train between the towns is a much more convenient and time-efficient option for day-trippers.

How Long to Spend in Cinque Terre

While it’s possible to see the main sights of the Cinque Terre on a day trip, it’s recommended to spend at least two days here to explore the area fully. We recommend targeting maybe two or three towns rather than trying to cover all five in a day.

Fiesole

20 minutes by bus or taxi

Located a short distance from Florence, Fiesole offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You’ll fall in love with the quaint feel of the town, Renaissance-styled villas, and olive groves.

Being only five miles from the city center, the hilltop town offers some of the most spectacular views over Florence.

Things to See and Do in Fiesole

Special Tips

• If you’re a foodie, make sure to try some of the regional specialties, such as the famous Tuscan steak or the local Chianti wine.
• Fiesole also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Festa della Musica in June and the Festa di San Giovanni in July.

How Long to Spend in Fiesole

You can easily spend a full day in Fiesole, exploring the historic sites, enjoying the local cuisine, and taking in the beautiful views. However, a half-day trip is also a great option if you’re short on time.

How to Get to Fiesole from Florence

Take the number 7 bus from Piazza San Marco in Florence, which will take you to Fiesole in about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or drive yourself.

Recommended Fiesole Tours

Fiesole, Florence Countryside Sunset or Morning E-Bike Tour & Farm Visit: 4 hrs – Take a leisurely and easy cycle from Florence to Fiesole through the countryside to stop at major landmarks and visit a local farm to try local produce and wine. See full Tour Details.

Lucca

1 hr by train

Lucca is a charming walled city between Cinque Terre, Pisa, and the Ligurian Sea. It’s often done as a combination Florence day trip with Pisa for a memorable day trip.

Its beautiful historical architecture, delicious cuisine, and stunning views make it one of the most popular Florence day trips.

Tip: Combine Lucca with a day trip to Pisa

Things to See and Do in Lucca

• Walk along the top of the city walls for stunning views of Lucca. It’s the only walled city in Tuscany where you can walk the entire route.
• Visit the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a unique oval-shaped square that was once a Roman amphitheater.
• Explore the beautiful Cathedral of San Martino and the Church of San Michele in Foro.
• Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic center.

Special Tips

• Try some of the local specialties, such as Buccellato, a sweet bread made with anise seeds.
• If you’re visiting on a weekend, check out the antique market in Piazza San Giusto.
• Rent a bike to explore the city and its surrounding countryside.

How Long to Spend in Lucca

• You can easily spend a full day in Lucca, enjoying the sights, local cuisine, and surrounding countryside.
• However, a half-day trip is also a great option, especially if you want to do a combined day trip with Pisa.

How to Get to Lucca from Florence

The best way to get to Lucca is by train from Florence, which takes about 1 hour. The train station is outside the walls, a short walk to the center.

Lucca Tour Recommendations

• Tuscan Wine Tour in Lucca by shuttle: 4-5 hrs – Visit two small wineries with a driver for wine tastings and a light wine-tasting lunch.
• Lucca City Center Walking Tour: 2 hrs – Discover the main attractions of Lucca with a local guide.
• Lucca Puccini Festival Opera Recitals and Concerts: 1 hr – Hear Puccini performed in the city he was born in the 2,200-year-old Church of San Giovanni, the old Church of the Templars that hides the splendid Roman Spa.

Milan

1.40 hr by train

Is Milan worth a day trip from Florence? Absolutely. Milan may look far away on a map, but Italy’s capital of fashion is perfect for a day trip from Florence.

Take advantage of the direct, high-speed train that connects the two legendary cities to visit Italy’s fashion capital for the day.

Things to See and Do in Milan

• Visit the stunning Gothic Cathedral, one of the largest churches in the world.
• Explore the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a beautiful 19th-century shopping arcade.
• See Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting, The Last Supper, at the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. We highly recommend booking in advance, especially as you have limited time.
• Visit the historic Sforza Castle and its many museums and art collections.

Special Tips

• Try some of the local specialties, such as risotto alla Milanese, a delicious saffron-infused rice dish.
• If you’re interested in fashion, visit the Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan’s famous fashion district.
• Take a walk through the trendy Navigli neighborhood, known for its canals and nightlife.

How Long to Spend in Milan

Milan is a large city with plenty to see and do, so allowing for a full day is recommended.

How to Get to Milan from Florence

The high-speed train is the best way to visit Milan on a day trip from Florence. The fastest service takes around one hour and forty minutes.

Tour Tip: Pre-book a Milan Duomo Rooftop Tour for a 1 hr tour among the gothic spires, statues, and gargoyles on the rooftop of Milan’s famous cathedral.

Orvieto

1.35 hr by train

Orvieto is a picturesque hilltop town in the Umbria region of Italy. Its history dates back to the Etruscan civilization, and the town is known for its striking Gothic architecture and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

An easy day trip from Florence, immerse yourself in the alluring charm of this enchanting Umbrian town.

Things to See and Do in Orvieto

• Duomo di Orvieto: a stunning example of Gothic architecture boasting intricate frescoes, is a must-see for its breathtaking artistry.
• Pozzo di San Patrizio: Descend the spiral staircase of this historic well, built in the 16th century, to marvel at its impressive engineering.
• Orvieto Underground: Explore the labyrinth of caves, tunnels, and cellars beneath the town that date back to Etruscan times.
• Torre del Moro: Climb the tower for panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
• Wine Tasting: Sample the region’s famous white wine, Orvieto Classico, at local wineries or enotecas.

Special Tips

• Try some of the local specialties, such as Orvieto Classico wine and the famous Orvieto truffle.
• If you’re interested in history, visit the Orvieto Archaeological Museum to learn more about the town’s Etruscan heritage.
• Take a guided tour to learn more about the town’s history and architecture.

How Long to Spend in Orvieto

Spending a full day in Orvieto is recommended to fully explore the town and its surrounding countryside.

How to Get to Orvieto from Florence

The high-speed train is the best way to get to Orvieto from Florence. The fastest direct service is one hour and thirty-five minutes, up to a little over two hours on the slower services. Be mindful not to catch the slower services that require a change in Roma Tiburtina.

Tour Recommendations for Orvieto

E-bike small group tour in Orvieto with lunch or dinner: 3-4 hrs – A leisurely E-bike tour combining Orvieto’s history and culture with local wine and food tastings. Enjoy the sights of Orvieto Cathedral and the Church of San Giovenale. Visit the Orvieto Underground with a prebooked ticket, enjoy views from Rocca Albornoziana, and spend time in an ancient wine cellar.

Orvieto City Card with Nine Local Landmarks: A single-pass ticket to Orvieto’s best museums and attractions.

Pisa

Visit Italy’s famous leaning tower on a day trip from Florence. Pisa is a historic town located in the Tuscany region of Italy, famous for its iconic Leaning Tower.

Things to See and Do in Pisa

• Leaning Tower of Pisa: Visit the world-famous leaning tower and consider climbing to the top for panoramic views of the city. Book your tickets online in advance to secure a spot.
• Pisa Cathedral: Marvel at this remarkable cathedral’s stunning architecture and intricate artwork within Piazza Dei Miracoli.
• Piazza Dei Miracoli: Wander around this UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the Leaning Tower, Pisa Cathedral, and the Baptistery. Remember to be respectful of the locals as you explore.
• Museo dell’Opera del Duomo: Learn more about the history of the Leaning Tower and the surrounding buildings

Special Tips

• Try some of the local specialties, such as the Tuscan-style soup, ribollita, and the famous Pisa cake, torta coi bischeri.
• If you’re interested in history, visit the Palazzo Blu, a museum that features art and artifacts from the 14th to the 20th century.
• Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the town.

How Long to Spend in Pisa

A half day is sufficient to spend in Pisa to see the highlights. As mentioned, Pisa is often combined with Lucca as a good combined Florence day trip.

How to Get to Pisa from Florence

The train from Florence takes between 50 minutes to one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on the service.

Pisa Tour Recommendations

Reserved Entrance to Leaning Tower of Pisa & Cathedral: Take advantage of a confirmed timed entry to climb the famous tower of Pisa and visit the 11th-century cathedral.

From Florence: Pisa, Siena & San Gimignano Day Trip with Lunch: 12.5 hrs – Visit the highlights of Tuscany in one day trip. Includes: Transport, free time in Pisa and San Gimignano, typical Tuscan lunch, Entry to Siena’s Cathedral with an authorized tour guide, a Guided tour of Siena, and a winery visit with wine tasting. Get Tour Details.

San Gimignano

1.5 hrs by public transport. 1 hr by car

San Gimignano is a small hill town in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. It’s known for its medieval architecture and stunning views of the Tuscan countryside.

The town is also famous for its Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a white wine that has been produced here since the 13th century.

With its cobblestone streets, ancient towers (it has more medieval towers than any other town in Tuscany), and quaint restaurants, San Gimignano is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Tuscany in one day.

San Gimignano is a great combination day trip when combined with nearby destinations such as Siena, Pisa, or Volterra.

Things to See and Do in San Gimignano

• Medieval Towers: Admire the skyline of San Gimignano, known as the “Manhattan of Tuscany,” featuring 14 well-preserved medieval towers. Don’t miss climbing Torre Grossa, the tallest tower in San Gimignano, for stunning views.
• Piazza della Cisterna and Piazza del Duomo: Wander through the heart of the city, exploring these two picturesque squares filled with historical buildings and bustling cafes. The Piazza della Cisterna is home to a well-preserved medieval well.
• Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta: The Collegiate Church of San Gimignano is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Discover the remarkable frescoes that adorn the walls of this Romanesque church, depicting biblical stories and saints’ lives.
• San Gimignano 1300 Museum: Immerse yourself in the town’s history through detailed exhibits and a massive scale model of the medieval city.

Special Tips

• Try the local specialties, such as the famous saffron-flavored dish, risotto alla San Gimignano.
• If you’re interested in wine, visit one of the many wineries in the surrounding countryside for a tasting.

How Long to Spend in San Gimignano

San Gimignano can be visited in half a day, making it a great destination to combine with other towns such as Siena, Pisa, or Volterra.

How to Get to San Gimignano from Florence

You can get to San Gimignano by train, bus, car, or on any of the many tours available. There are no direct buses from Florence. You will need to change in Poggibonsi. Travel time is between 1.5-2 hrs.

To go by train, the journey from Firenze to Poggibonsi is around 1 hr. From Poggibonsi train station, take bus 130 or 133 to reach San Gimignano. The total journey takes around 1.5 hrs.

Driving takes just over an hour from Florence.

San Gimignano Tours from Florence

San Gimignano, Siena, Chianti Lunch & Wine Tour: 11 hrs – Includes all transport. Visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Tour the Siena Cathedral with a local guide, and enjoy the Tuscan and Chianti countryside with lunch and a tasting at a Chianti winery. Get Tor Details.

San Gimignano & Siena Day Trip with Wine Tasting: 9 hrs – Includes transport to San Gimignano & Siena from Florence, where you can enjoy free time to explore the UNESCO cities. In San Gimignano, you will enjoy a wine tasting at a local Fiaschetteria. Get Tour details

Siena

1.5 hrs by train

The medieval town of Siena, located in the heart of Tuscany, is steeped in history and cultural heritage, such as the famous Palio horse race that takes place twice a year.

Its well-preserved architecture and captivating charm have earned it a spot on the list of World Heritage Sites.

Things to See and Do in Siena

• Piazza del Campo: Visit this iconic square, which houses the beautiful Fountain of Joy, the historic Palazzo Pubblico, and Torre del Mangia, offering panoramic views of Tuscany.
• Duomo di Siena: Explore one of Italy’s most stunning cathedrals, adorned with intricate architecture and frescoes, including the famous “Libreria Piccolomini.”
• Museo dell’Opera Metropolitana: Visit the Museo dell’Opera Metropolitana, which houses many of the original sculptures and artwork from the Siena Cathedral.
• UNESCO Listed historical center: Take a stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, and admire the beautiful architecture.
• Pasticceria Nannini: Indulge in delectable Sienese pastries at this hidden gem, renowned for its mouthwatering treats.

Special Tips

• Try some of the local specialties, such as the Tuscan-style steak, bistecca alla Fiorentina, and the famous Siena cake, panforte.
• If you’re interested in history, visit the Museo Civico, which features art and artifacts from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.
• Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of the town.

How Long to Spend in Siena

A full day is recommended for Siena, but it can be combined with trips to nearby towns such as Pisa, San Gimignano, and Volterra.

How to Get to Siena from Florence

The easiest way to reach Siena from Florence is by train. Services range from an hour and a half to one hour and fifty minutes.

Tour Tips for Siena

• Siena 2-Hour Walking Tour & Skip-the-Line Duomo Tickets
• Siena 1.5 hr Walking Tour & Gelato Tasting
• Duomo of Siena with the OPA SI Fast-Track Entry Pass

Val d’Orcia

2 hrs by car

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Val d’Orcia is a picturesque region renowned for its enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

This UNESCO World Heritage-listed area boasts iconic rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and charming hilltop towns that have inspired artists and travelers for centuries.

With a history deeply rooted in agriculture, Val d’Orcia is also celebrated for its exquisite wines, such as Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and delectable pecorino cheese.

Lose yourself in the tranquil beauty of Val d’Orcia, where every turn reveals a stunning vista, inviting you to slow down and savor the essence of Tuscany.

Things to See and Do in Val d’Orcia

• Hilltop Towns: Wander through charming towns like Pienza, Montalcino, and Montepulciano, each offering unique history, architecture, and breathtaking views.
• Scenic Landscapes: Marvel at the iconic rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and vineyards that define the Val d’Orcia landscape, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
• Historic Abbeys: Visit the Abbey of Sant’Antimo and the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore to appreciate their serene beauty and fascinating past.

• Special Tips
• Try some of the local specialties, such as the Pecorino cheese from Pienza and the famous Brunello di Montalcino wine.
• If you’re interested in photography, visit the famous cypress tree-lined roads and rolling hills of the Val d’Orcia.

How Long to Spend in Val d’Orcia

Spending a full day in Val d’Orcia is recommended to fully explore the region and its stunning landscapes.

If you plan your time well, you could explore the famous trio of towns: Montepulciano, Montalcino, and Pienza, although two of the towns would make for a much more relaxing day.

How to Get to Val d’Orcia from Florence

Visiting Val d’Orcia by public transport is possible, but it requires transfers, and schedules are limited. The best way is to self-drive through the scenic countryside – around 2 hrs or take a guided tour from Florence.

There are so many great day trips to Val d’Orcia from Florence and tours and tastings in the region ranging from an hour or two to full-day tours – See a full selection of Val d’Orcia tours here to find one to suit your interest.

Volterra

Perched atop a hill in the heart of Tuscany, Volterra is a captivating town steeped in history and brimming with charm.

Known for its well-preserved Etruscan, Roman, and medieval architecture, Volterra offers a fascinating journey through the ages. With its winding cobblestone streets, panoramic views, and vibrant cultural scene, this Tuscan gem has earned a reputation as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience.

Whether you’re strolling through its atmospheric streets or soaking up the breathtaking vistas, Volterra promises a memorable encounter with Tuscany’s timeless beauty and allure.

Volterra is often combined with San Gimignano for a combination Florence day trip.

Things to See and Do in Volterra

• Roman Theatre: Discover the well-preserved remains of this 1st-century BC theatre, which once hosted performances for up to 3,000 spectators.
• Etruscan Walls and Gates: Stroll along the ancient walls that encircle the town and admire the impressive Porta all’Arco, an iconic Etruscan gate.
• Visit the Etruscan Museum, which houses many artifacts from the Etruscan civilization that once inhabited the area.
• Palazzo dei Priori and Piazza dei Priori: Explore Volterra’s historic center, featuring the oldest town hall in Tuscany and a lively square surrounded by medieval buildings.
• Visit the stunning Volterra Cathedral, a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture.

Special Tips

• Don’t miss the chance to witness local artisans crafting intricate alabaster sculptures, a centuries-old tradition unique to Volterra.

How Long to Spend in Volterra

If you want to pair your visit with a stop at San Gimignano, a half-day is sufficient to see the highlight. However, a full day will give you enough time to explore at your leisure as there is a bit to see if you are interested in history.

How to Get to Volterra from Florence

The best way to visit Voterra from Florence is by car or with a tour. From Florence, the drive is around 1.5 hrs. You can take a train to Volterra Saline station, which is around 10 km from the town. You can take abuse or a taxi from the station.

Volterra Tour Recommendations

From Florence: San Gimignano & Volterra Day Trip with Food & Wine: 10 hrs – Visit the medieval monuments of UNESCO-listed San Gimignano, explore the narrow streets of the hilltop town of Volterra, and enjoy typical Tuscan dishes during lunch at a winery. Includes transport, guided tours, lunch, winery visit and tasting, and ice cream tasting. Get Tour Details.

Volterra Truffle Hunting Experience with Lunch: 3 hrs – Go truffle hunting with specially trained dogs in the Tuscan countryside and return for lunch at a farmhouse restaurant to enjoy a meal with the truffles from your hunt. Get Tour details.

Conclusion

From strolling along cobblestone streets and admiring Renaissance art to climbing medieval towers, these unforgettable day trips from Florence offer unique Tuscan experiences.

Whether you’re into cars, wine, or architecture, take the time to admire the stunning scenery as you soak in Tuscany’s culture, cuisine, and renowned wines.