Looking for the best day trips from Florence, Italy? Whether you’re interested in medieval towns like Siena and San Gimignano, coastal escapes like Cinque Terre, or wine-tasting in the Chianti region, there’s a perfect destination just a short trip away. From iconic sights such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa to hidden gems like Certaldo and Orvieto, these day trips offer a rich blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, all within a few hours of Florence.
Keep reading to discover how each location can add a unique experience to your Italian adventure!
Overview of Day Trip Destinations from Florence Italy
From scenic vineyards to medieval towns and coastal escapes, here’s a closer look at the best day trips from Florence and what makes each one special.
| Destinations | Travel Duration | Best Transport Option |
| Pisa | ≈1 hr | Train |
| Siena | 1 hour 15 mins | Bus/Train |
| Cinque Terre | ≈2 hrs 30 mins | Train |
| San Gimignano | 1 hr | Car/Bus |
| Chianti | 45 mins | Car |
| Lucca | 1 hr 20 mins | Train/Car |
| Volterra | ≈1 hr 35 mins | Car |
| Bologna | 40 mins | High-speed train |
| Montepulciano | ≈1 hr 30 mins | Car |
| Arezzo | 1 hr | Train |
| Orvieto | 2 – 2 hrs 30 mins | Car |
| Certaldo | 52 mins – 1 hour | Train/Car |
With so many incredible destinations just a short trip from Florence, it’s time to explore the details of each.
1. Pisa
Distance from Florence: 53 miles (85 km)
Why Choose It: The iconic Leaning Tower and easy access
What to See: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa Cathedral, Baptistery, Piazza dei Miracoli
Everyone knows Pisa for its famous Leaning Tower, but there’s much more to this historic city. The Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) is home to other architectural treasures like the Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery.
After that, take a walk along the Arno River and enjoy the local Tuscan food and culture. While you learn about Pisa’s history, do not forget to take that famous picture of you “holding up” the Leaning Tower.
Related Post: Florence to Pisa Day Trip
2. Siena
Distance from Florence: 49 miles (78 km)
Why Choose It: Medieval Charm and Gothic Architecture
What to See: Piazza del Campo, Siena Cathedral, Torre del Mangia
If you love history and architecture, Siena offers some of the best-preserved medieval structures in all of Italy. Its medieval streets and grand Gothic architecture transport you back in time. The Piazza del Campo, with its distinct shell shape, is the heart of the city and hosts the famous Palio horse race.
Don’t miss the magnificent Siena Cathedral, with its intricate facade and stunning interior. Siena is also a haven for art lovers, thanks to its numerous museums and galleries.
3. Cinque Terre
Distance from Florence: 2.5 hours by train
Why Choose It: Picturesque seaside villages, hiking trails, and great seafood
What to See: Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Monterosso, Manarola, Corniglia
Cinque Terre is a series of five coastal villages that cling to the cliffs along the Ligurian Sea. These colorful towns—Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Monterosso—offer a slice of paradise, with winding trails, charming harbors, and some of the most breathtaking sea views you’ll find. Hiking between the villages is a popular activity, but you can also take a leisurely train ride to see them all in one day.
4. San Gimignano
Distance from Florence: 1 hour by car or bus
Why Choose It: Medieval towers and charming streets
What to See: Collegiata di San Gimignano, Piazza della Cisterna, Torre Grossa
San Gimignano’s skyline, punctuated by its famous towers, is why this small town is often called the “Medieval Manhattan.” Located about an hour from Florence, San Gimignano is full of well-preserved history, from ancient towers to Romanesque churches. Be sure to visit the Collegiata, a 12th-century church, and enjoy some of the best gelato in Tuscany.
5. Chianti
Distance from Florence: 45 minutes by car
Why Choose It: Wine tasting in the heart of Tuscany
What to See: Vineyards, Chianti Classico wineries, Castellina in Chianti
If you love wine, you can’t miss a trip to the Chianti region. Just an hour’s drive from Florence, Chianti is world-renowned for its vineyards, producing some of the best wines in Italy. A visit here isn’t complete without sampling Chianti Classico paired with Tuscan cuisine. Whether you choose to join a wine tour or explore on your own, the rolling hills and endless vineyards make for a relaxing day trip.
6. Lucca
Distance from Florence: 1 hour 20 minutes by train
Why Choose It: Intact Renaissance walls and charming streets
What to See: Guinigi Tower, Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, Lucca Cathedral
Lucca is unique in that its Renaissance walls are still intact, making a stroll or bike ride along the city’s ramparts a must-do. This small city boasts a wealth of history, including its beautifully preserved medieval architecture. Visit the Guinigi Tower, famous for the oak trees growing at its top, and explore the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a charming square surrounded by restaurants and cafes.
7. Volterra
Distance from Florence: 2 hours by car
Why Choose It: For ancient Etruscan history and medieval architecture
What to See: Palazzo dei Priori, Roman Theatre, Etruscan Museum
Volterra is known for its Etruscan roots and medieval atmosphere. Its hilltop location provides stunning views of the Tuscan countryside. The town’s charm lies in its narrow streets, ancient buildings, and hidden squares. Volterra is also famous for its alabaster crafts, and visiting the Etruscan Museum will give you insight into its ancient past. This peaceful town offers a quieter alternative to the more tourist-heavy destinations.
8. Bologna
Distance from Florence: 1 hour by high-speed train
Why Choose It: A paradise for food lovers and medieval architecture
What to See: Piazza Maggiore, Asinelli Tower, Basilica of San Petronio
Bologna is a food lover’s dream. Just over an hour by train from Florence, Bologna offers some of the best Italian cuisine, including mortadella, tortellini, and ragù alla Bolognese. You can spend your day exploring the Piazza Maggiore, climbing the Asinelli Tower for panoramic views, and, of course, indulging in a food tour through the city’s gourmet district.
9. Montepulciano
Distance from Florence: 1.5 hours by car
Why Choose It: Famous for wine and stunning Renaissance buildings
What to See: Vino Nobile wineries, Piazza Grande, Palazzo Comunale
Famous for its Vino Nobile, Montepulciano is a hilltop town that offers some of the best wine tasting in Tuscany. The town’s Renaissance buildings, winding streets, and beautiful churches make it a great destination for those looking to experience both wine and history. A visit here can also be paired with a stop in the nearby town of Pienza.
10. Arezzo
Distance from Florence: 1 hour by train
Why Choose It: For Renaissance art and less crowded historical attractions
What to See: Basilica of San Francesco, Roman Amphitheatre, Antiques Market
Arezzo is often overlooked, but it’s home to some incredible Renaissance art, including Piero della Francesca’s famous frescoes. The historic center is compact and easy to explore, with charming shops, cafes, and stunning views. Arezzo is also known for its monthly antiques market, making it a great destination for art and history enthusiasts.
11. Orvieto
Distance from Florence: 103 miles (165 km)
Why Choose It: Unique hilltop location and underground caves
What to See: Orvieto Cathedral, Orvieto Underground, St. Patrick’s Well
Orvieto is a charming hilltop town in Umbria, known for its majestic Gothic cathedral, considered one of Italy’s finest. The façade of the Orvieto Cathedral is stunning, with intricate mosaics and sculptures. Beneath the town, a network of underground caves and tunnels, dating back to the Etruscan era, adds a fascinating layer of history to explore. The panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the tranquil, relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect day trip for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
12. Certaldo
Distance from Florence: 30 miles (49 km)
Why Choose It: Medieval charm and connection to the famous Italian writer Giovanni Boccaccio
What to See: Palazzo Pretorio, Boccaccio’s House, Certaldo Alto
Certaldo is a picturesque Tuscan town, best known as the birthplace of the renowned writer Giovanni Boccaccio. The town is divided into two parts: the modern lower town and the medieval hilltop town known as Certaldo Alto.
Take a short cable car ride to Certaldo Alto and explore its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and panoramic views. Palazzo Pretorio, the town’s main attraction, houses beautiful frescoes and historical artifacts. Certaldo is a peaceful destination for those wanting to experience authentic Tuscan life without the crowds.
Final Thoughts
Florence may be the heart of Tuscany, but these day trips provide a rich and diverse exploration of Italy’s history, culture, and natural beauty. From medieval towns like Siena and San Gimignano to coastal gems like Cinque Terre and the Chianti wine region, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting just beyond Florence’s borders.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to enjoy breathtaking landscapes, these day trips promise to enhance your Italian experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where else to visit near Florence, Italy?
You can visit places like Siena, Pisa, Lucca, San Gimignano, and the Chianti wine region, all perfect for day trips from Florence.
Can you do day trips from Florence?
Yes, Florence is a great base for day trips to many nearby towns and regions in Tuscany and beyond.
How many days do you need in Florence, Italy?
Typically, 3-4 days are enough to explore Florence and take one or two day trips.
What to combine Florence with?
Florence pairs well with day trips to Tuscany’s medieval towns, vineyards, and cities like Pisa or Siena, or even Venice and Rome for a longer trip.
Is Cinque Terre a day trip from Florence?
Yes, you can visit Cinque Terre on a day trip from Florence, though it’s a longer journey of around 2.5 hours by train.
