10 Best Day Trips from Florence, Italy (2026 Guide)
Timeless Wanderers: Updated April 21, 2026
Florence: The Perfect Base for Exploring Tuscany
One of the best things about staying in Florence is how easy it is to explore the rest of Tuscany.
Within an hour or two, you can be wandering the medieval streets of Siena, tasting wine in Chianti, cycling around Lucca’s Renaissance walls, or admiring the towers of San Gimignano—all without changing hotels.
After spending years travelling throughout Tuscany, we’ve found that Florence is one of the best bases for discovering the region.
Excellent train connections, scenic driving routes, and a wide range of guided tours make many of Tuscany’s highlights easy to visit in a single day.
In this guide, we’ll share our favourite day trips from Florence, along with travel times, the best ways to get there, and tips to help you decide which destinations are worth adding to your itinerary.
Table of Contents
Planning Tips for Day Trips from Florence
A little planning can make the difference between a rushed day and one you’ll remember for all the right reasons.
- Book ahead if you’re travelling during spring, summer, or public holidays. Popular tours, wineries, and attractions can sell out well in advance.
- Travel light and wear comfortable shoes. Many of Tuscany’s historic towns have cobbled streets, steep hills, and plenty of walking.
- Start early. Leaving Florence in the morning gives you more time to explore before the busiest part of the day and allows you to enjoy a more relaxed pace.
- Choose the right transport. Many destinations, including Pisa, Lucca, and Siena, are easy to reach by train. Others, such as Chianti and Val d’Orcia, are much easier to explore by car or on a guided tour.
- Consider a guided tour if you’d rather not drive. Companies such as GetYourGuide and Viator offer excellent day trips that include transport, local guides, and, in many cases, skip-the-line entry to popular attractions.
We can help you plan your dream trip to Tuscany, with a personalised itinerary designed just for you.
After more than 20 years of travelling to Tuscany—and loving it so much we decided to make it our home—we now live here and explore the region at a relaxed, local pace.
Planning a trip to Tuscany is exciting, but choosing where to go, how long to stay, and how to get around can quickly become overwhelming.
That’s where we come in.
We offer a personalised planning service that helps you decide exactly how to explore Tuscany, based on your travel style, budget, and pace.
Plus, we can help you plan scenic drives, time in hilltop towns, food and wine experiences, and those small local moments that make a trip truly special—making your Tuscany holiday easier, smoother, and full of memories you’ll treasure long after you return home.
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1. Pisa: Iconic Architecture and a Classic Tuscan Day Trip
Just over an hour from Florence by train, Pisa is one of Tuscany’s easiest and most popular day trips.
Many visitors come for one reason — the famous Leaning Tower — but there is much more to discover beyond this world-famous landmark.
The highlight of any visit is Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see the Leaning Tower, the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Baptistery, and the historic Camposanto.
Beyond the famous square, take time to wander through Pisa’s quieter streets, stroll along the Arno River, explore Piazza dei Cavalieri, and enjoy a relaxed lunch away from the busiest tourist areas.
How to Get There
The easiest way to visit Pisa from Florence is by train. Regular services run throughout the day, with the journey taking around one hour. From Pisa Centrale station, the historic centre and Piazza dei Miracoli are about a 20-minute walk away.
For travellers who prefer a more organised experience, guided tours from companies such as Get Your Guide or Viator can include transport, a local guide, and skip-the-line access to the Leaning Tower.
Our Tip
If you have a full day available, Pisa combines beautifully with nearby Lucca.
Visiting both cities allows you to experience two very different sides of Tuscany — Pisa’s famous landmarks and Lucca’s peaceful Renaissance streets.
For a slower experience, we recommend not rushing through Pisa. Even a few extra hours will allow you to discover the city beyond the Leaning Tower.
2. Siena: Medieval Streets, Gothic Beauty & Tuscan History
Siena is one of the most popular day trips from Florence and a place where you truly feel the history of Tuscany.
Set on three hills in the heart of the region, this beautiful medieval city is famous for its Gothic architecture, winding streets, and the legendary Palio horse race held in Piazza del Campo each summer.
The shell-shaped Piazza del Campo is considered one of Italy’s most beautiful squares and has been the centre of city life for centuries.
Nearby, the magnificent Siena Cathedral, with its striking black-and-white marble design, is one of Tuscany’s greatest architectural treasures.
Beyond the famous landmarks, Siena is best enjoyed slowly.
Wander through the narrow medieval lanes, discover quiet corners away from the main square, stop for a traditional Tuscan lunch, and take in the views from the city walls.
How to Get There
Siena can be reached from Florence by bus in around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Driving takes approximately the same amount of time and gives you more flexibility if you want to explore nearby towns or countryside viewpoints.
Another popular option is a guided Tuscany day tour, often combining Siena with San Gimignano, Chianti wineries, or other nearby destinations. This Tour gets rave reviews.
Our Tip
If you love history, architecture, and authentic Tuscan atmosphere, Siena deserves a full day rather than a rushed few hours.
Arrive early, stay until the evening light, and you’ll experience a very different side of the city once the day visitors leave.
Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable.
3. San Gimignano: Medieval Towers, Tuscan Views & Vernaccia Wine
San Gimignano is one of Tuscany’s most unforgettable hill towns, famous for its medieval towers that rise above the surrounding countryside.
Once known as the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages,” the town originally had more than 70 towers built by wealthy families competing to display their power. Today, 14 towers remain, creating the distinctive skyline that makes San Gimignano instantly recognisable.
Beyond the towers, San Gimignano rewards those who slow down. Wander through the stone streets, browse artisan workshops, enjoy a famous gelato in Piazza della Cisterna, and take in the sweeping views across the Tuscan hills.
The town is also the birthplace of Vernaccia di San Gimignano, one of Italy’s oldest white wines. Wine lovers can visit local wineries nearby or enjoy a glass overlooking the countryside.
How to Get There:
Reaching San Gimignano via public transport requires a bus-train combo, so a guided tour or Car Hire is easiest.
Tour Tip:
Combine San Gimignano with Siena and Chianti on a small-group Viator or GetYourGuide day tour with tastings included.
Our Tip
San Gimignano can become very busy in the middle of the day, especially in summer.
If possible, arrive early or stay until late afternoon when many day visitors leave and the town takes on a much quieter atmosphere.
For the best experience, combine San Gimignano with nearby Siena or a Chianti winery rather than trying to rush through too many places in one day.
Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable.
4. Lucca: Renaissance Walls, Quiet Streets & Our Favourite Tuscan Town
Lucca is one of those places that surprises visitors. While many travellers rush towards Tuscany’s more famous hill towns, Lucca offers something different — a slower pace, beautiful architecture, and a chance to experience everyday Tuscan life.
The city’s most unique feature is its perfectly preserved Renaissance walls, which completely surround the historic centre.
Today, these former defensive walls have been transformed into a beautiful tree-lined promenade where locals walk, jog, and cycle while enjoying views over the city.
Inside the walls, Lucca is made for wandering.
Discover elegant piazzas, medieval towers, hidden corners, traditional restaurants, and the birthplace of famous composer Giacomo Puccini.
For us, Lucca is one of our favourite towns in Tuscany because it feels lived-in rather than simply visited.
It’s a place where you can enjoy a long coffee in a quiet square, explore without rushing, and experience the everyday Tuscan life.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Lucca from Florence is by train, with regular services taking around 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Driving is also a good option if you want to explore more of the surrounding countryside.
Many travellers also combine Lucca with Pisa, as the two towns are close together and offer very different experiences.
Our Tip
If you have the time, don’t treat Lucca as just a quick stop.
Arrive early, walk or cycle the city walls, enjoy lunch inside the historic centre, and stay into the afternoon when the pace becomes even more relaxed.
For a more active experience, a guided e-bike tour is a wonderful way to see the walls and discover more of the city.
Our Full Guide on The Best
12 Things to Do in Lucca, Tuscany: Discover Italy’s Perfect Walled City
5. Chianti Wine Region: Wine, Villages & Classic Tuscan Landscapes
Just south of Florence, the Chianti wine region is one of the easiest ways to experience the Tuscany people dream about.
Rolling hills covered with vineyards, olive groves, stone farmhouses, and winding country roads make this one of the most scenic areas in the region.
While Chianti is world-famous for its wine, the real experience is about much more than a tasting.
A day in Chianti is about slowing down — enjoying a long lunch at a countryside restaurant, visiting a family-run winery, exploring small villages such as Greve in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti, and taking time along the way.
For wine lovers, Chianti offers the chance to taste Chianti Classico directly from the producers who have been making wine here for generations.
Even if you are not a serious wine enthusiast, the combination of food, scenery, and hospitality makes this one of Tuscany’s most enjoyable day trips.
How to Get There
The easiest way to explore Chianti is by car, giving you the freedom to stop at viewpoints, villages, and wineries along the way.
Public transport is limited, so travellers without a car often choose a guided wine tour from Florence. These tours usually include transport, winery visits, tastings, and sometimes a traditional Tuscan lunch.
Our Tip
Choose a small-group tour rather than a large coach experience if possible. Smaller groups often visit family-run wineries where you can hear the stories behind the vineyards and enjoy a more personal experience.
GetYourGuide tour with tastings at two or three family-run wineries and a traditional Tuscan lunch.
Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable.
6. Arezzo: Renaissance Art, Antiques & Authentic Tuscany
Arezzo is one of Tuscany’s most underrated cities and a wonderful choice for travellers who want to experience a more local side of the region.
Located southeast of Florence, this historic city combines Etruscan roots, medieval streets, Renaissance masterpieces, and a lively local atmosphere without the crowds found in some of Tuscany’s more famous destinations.
Art lovers should not miss the Basilica of San Francesco, home to Piero della Francesca’s remarkable Legend of the True Cross fresco cycle, considered one of the great achievements of Renaissance art.
Beyond its museums and churches, Arezzo is a pleasure to explore on foot. Wander through the historic centre, visit the beautiful Piazza Grande, browse independent shops, and enjoy the cafés and restaurants that still cater mainly to locals.
The city is also famous for its monthly antiques market, held on the first weekend of each month, when Piazza Grande and the surrounding streets fill with stalls selling furniture, artwork, jewellery, and vintage treasures.
How to Get There:
Trains from Florence take about an hour.
Easy and relaxed do it yourself day trip, or a guided tour with Get Your Guide or Viator
Tour Tip: For a deeper dive, some guided walking tours are available on Viator, including entry to the frescoes and a historical overview.
Our Tip
Arezzo is a great choice if you have already visited Florence’s major museums and want to discover a quieter Tuscan city with excellent food, beautiful architecture, and fewer crowds.
7. Montepulciano & Pienza: The Beauty of Val d’Orcia
For travellers willing to venture further from Florence, Montepulciano and Pienza offer one of the most beautiful landscapes in all of Tuscany.
Located in the UNESCO-listed Val d’Orcia, this area is famous for rolling golden hills, winding cypress roads, vineyards, and some of the most photographed scenery in Italy.
Montepulciano is a hilltop town known around the world for Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Beneath its medieval streets, historic wine cellars are carved into the hillside, offering visitors the chance to taste local wines in atmospheric surroundings.
Nearby Pienza is smaller but equally memorable.
Known as the “ideal Renaissance town,” it is famous for its beautiful streets, panoramic viewpoints, and pecorino cheese made from the milk of local sheep.
Together, these two towns capture everything people imagine when they dream of Tuscany — incredible landscapes, wonderful food, historic towns, and a slower pace of life.
How to Get There
The best way to visit Montepulciano and Pienza from Florence is by car, allowing you to stop at scenic viewpoints and explore the Val d’Orcia, at your own pace.
For travellers who prefer not to drive, guided full-day tours are a great option and often include transport, wine tasting, lunch, and visits to both towns.
Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable.
Our Tip
This is one of the longer day trips from Florence, so don’t try to squeeze in too many extra stops.
The magic of Val d’Orcia comes from slowing down, enjoying the scenery, and allowing time to appreciate the landscape.
Tour Tip:
Book a Val d’Orcia tour on GetYourGuide that includes both towns, a winery stop, and lunch with a view.
8. Volterra: Etruscan History, Alabaster Workshops & Hilltop Views
Volterra feels different from many of Tuscany’s better-known towns.
Perched high on a hilltop, this ancient city combines Etruscan origins, Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and sweeping views across the surrounding countryside.
While towns like San Gimignano are famous for their towers, Volterra’s appeal lies in its history and atmosphere.
Wander through the ancient city gates, explore the Roman Theatre, visit the impressive Piazza dei Priori, and discover workshops where local artisans continue the centuries-old tradition of alabaster carving.
The town’s stone streets and historic buildings make it a wonderful place to explore slowly, with plenty of small shops, cafés, and viewpoints to discover along the way.
Volterra is also a great choice for travellers who want to experience a less crowded side of Tuscany while still enjoying incredible history and scenery.
How to Get There:
Tough by public transport; best visited by Car Hire or on a day tour, often combined with San Gimignano.
Tour Tip: Look for combo tours with Get your guide or Viator that include both towns and time to shop local crafts.
Our Tip
Volterra combines well with San Gimignano, although we recommend not rushing both towns.
If you have a car, allow extra time to enjoy the countryside roads and viewpoints along the way.
9. Cinque Terre: A Coastal Escape from Florence
Although Cinque Terre is located in Liguria rather than Tuscany, it is one of the most popular day trips from Florence for travellers wanting to experience Italy’s spectacular coastline.
Made up of five colourful villages — Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore — Cinque Terre is famous for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, hiking trails, and fresh seafood.
A day here feels completely different from the Tuscan countryside.
Instead of rolling hills and vineyards, you’ll find colourful villages clinging to the coastline, scenic viewpoints, seaside restaurants, and walking paths overlooking the Mediterranean.
While it is a long day from Florence, Cinque Terre is a memorable choice for travellers who want to combine Renaissance cities with a taste of Italy’s beautiful coastline.
How to Get There
The easiest way to visit Cinque Terre from Florence is with an organised day tour, as transport involves a combination of train connections and local trains between the villages.
Independent travellers can also visit by train, although careful planning is needed to make the most of the limited time available.
Tour Tip:
Viator and GetYourGuide both offer full-day Cinque Terre tours from Florence that include multiple villages and lunch.
Our Tip
Cinque Terre is best enjoyed at a slower pace, but as a day trip from Florence you will need to accept that it will be a busy day.
If you visit, focus on enjoying a few villages rather than trying to see all five.
For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.
10. Bologna: Italy’s Culinary Capital Beyond Tuscany
Although Bologna is located in the Emilia-Romagna region rather than Tuscany, it is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Florence.
Known as Italy’s culinary capital, Bologna offers a completely different experience from Tuscany’s hill towns and vineyards.
Here, the focus is on incredible food, historic streets, and a vibrant university atmosphere that has shaped the city for centuries.
Food lovers will recognise Bologna as the home of traditional ragù alla bolognese, fresh handmade pasta such as tagliatelle, and local specialties including mortadella.
Beyond its cuisine, the city is famous for its beautiful porticoes, medieval towers, colourful streets, and the University of Bologna, founded in 1088 and considered the oldest university in the world.
Bologna is a wonderful choice for travellers who want to spend a day eating, exploring, and experiencing a lively Italian city beyond the usual tourist routes.
How to Get There:
Just 40 minutes by high-speed train from Florence is without doubt the quickest and easiest.
Tour Tip: Join a cooking class or gourmet walking tour with Get Your Guide or Viator to get a real taste of the city
Our Tip
A food tour or cooking class is one of the best ways to experience Bologna. Learning about the region’s famous cuisine while exploring local markets, pasta shops, and traditional restaurants makes this a memorable addition to a Florence itinerary.
Best Time of Year for Day Trips from Florence
The best time for day trips from Florence is during spring and autumn when the weather is comfortable, crowds are smaller, and Tuscany’s landscapes are at their most beautiful.
Spring (April to June) — The Perfect Balance
Spring is one of our favourite times to explore Tuscany from Florence.
The countryside is green, wildflowers appear along the roads, and temperatures are ideal for walking through historic towns.
April, May, and early June are excellent months for destinations such as Siena, San Gimignano, Lucca, and Chianti, when you can enjoy outdoor cafés, vineyard visits, and sightseeing without the intense summer heat.
Summer (July and August) — Beautiful but Busy
Summer is the busiest season for Florence and its surrounding destinations.
Long daylight hours make it possible to enjoy full days out, but popular towns such as Pisa, San Gimignano, and Cinque Terre can become crowded, especially in the middle of the day.
If travelling in summer, start early, book tours and attractions ahead of time, and plan quieter stops away from the main tourist areas.
Autumn (September and October) — Our Favourite Season
Autumn is a wonderful time for exploring Tuscany.
The temperatures are comfortable, vineyards are full of activity during the harvest season, and the countryside takes on beautiful golden colours.
September is especially special for wine lovers, with vendemmia (grape harvest) taking place across regions such as Chianti and Val d’Orcia.
Winter (November to March) — Quiet and Authentic
Winter brings fewer crowds and a more local atmosphere.
While some seasonal attractions and wineries may have reduced hours, this can be a wonderful time to explore cities such as Siena, Lucca, and Arezzo at a slower pace.
Our Recommendation
For the best overall experience, we recommend visiting Florence and taking day trips between April and June or September and October.
You’ll enjoy comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and more time to appreciate the towns, landscapes, food, and wine that make this part of Italy so special.
FAQs: Day Trips from Florence
1. What are the best day trips from Florence?
Some of the best day trips from Florence include A Perfect day Trip From Florence To Pisa and Lucca, Siena and San Gimignano, the Chianti wine region, Cinque Terre, Arezzo, and the hilltop towns of Montepulciano and Pienza in Val d’Orcia.
2. Can I take day trips from Florence by train?
Yes, many top destinations such as Pisa, Lucca, Siena, and Arezzo are easily reached by regional train from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station.
For smaller villages or wineries, renting a car or joining an organized tour is more convenient.
3. Is it better to rent a car for day trips from Florence?
Renting a car offers more flexibility, especially for exploring rural Tuscany, vineyards, and lesser-known hill towns.
However, avoid driving in central Florence — pick up your rental from outside the ZTL (restricted traffic zone).
4. Are there guided tours available from Florence?
Yes, there are many tours available through companies like GetYourGuide and Viator that include transport, guides, and wine tastings.
Popular options include Chianti wine tours, Cinque Terre excursions, and Siena & San Gimignano full-day tours.
5. How far are the main destinations from Florence
Pisa: ~1 hour by train or car
Lucca: ~1.5 hours by train
Siena: ~1.5 hours by bus or car
Cinque Terre: ~2.5 hours by train
Montepulciano/Pienza: ~2 hours by car
6. What’s the best time of year for day trips from Florence?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal — pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful landscapes.
Summer can be hot and busy, while winter offers peaceful sightseeing and lower prices.
7. Can I visit multiple towns in one day?
Yes! Pisa and Lucca are a classic day trip pair, as are Siena and San Gimignano.
With an early start and a car or guided tour, you can easily enjoy two destinations in one day.
8. Are day trips from Florence suitable for families?
Absolutely. Families love Lucca for its flat bike paths, Pisa for the Leaning Tower, and Chianti for relaxed countryside views.
Many tours and attractions are family-friendly, offering a mix of culture, food, and outdoor fun.
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Do You Need Travel Insurance for Tuscany?
(Short Answer: Yes — It’s Still a Smart Idea)
Travel insurance isn’t legally required to visit Tuscany, but it’s one of the smartest things you can have when travelling in Italy.
Even in a relaxed destination like Tuscany, things can go wrong — from delayed flights and lost luggage to medical issues, rental car damage, or unexpected trip cancellations.
And while Italy has excellent healthcare, medical treatment for visitors can still be costly without proper coverage.
As long-term travellers living in Italy, we’ve found SafetyWing to be a practical option for trips around Europe, offering coverage for medical care, travel delays, and lost belongings without complicated fine print.
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Final Thoughts: Day Tripping Made Easy
Florence might be the jewel of Tuscany, but the true treasure lies in its surroundings.
With so many incredible towns and experiences just a short trip away, your only challenge is choosing which one to explore first.
Whether you’re sipping wine in Chianti, walking medieval walls in Lucca, or climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa, a day trip from Florence is the perfect way to dive deeper into Tuscany’s timeless magic.
PLAN YOUR TUSCANY ADVENTURE
These are our favorite companies we use when planning a trip, they consistently have the best prices, great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT – Going is a great search engine if you are flexible about your travel destination and dates. Sign up for their newsletter and get the latest deals on destinations around the world. GOING is our new go to.
CAR RENTAL – We recommend using Discover Cars or Rental Cars when booking a car rental, they work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs.
TRAINS – OMIO – is our favorite, this site is very reliable and easy to use.
BUS – OMIO – this website allows you to book train or bus tickets to travel from city to city the best and cheapest way. FLIXBUS is another terrific website with routes between 20 European countries.
ACCOMMODATIONS
BOOKING.com – is our go to for hotel searches around the world, we find they always have the cheapest rates and offer different payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.
HOSTELWORLD – is great if you’re traveling on a budget, and if you need a cheap place to stay.
SIGHTSEEING TOURS
GET YOUR GUIDE – is our favorite; they have stacks of tours and excursions available in cities all over the world. VIATOR is another great website for all types of tours.
TAKE WALKS – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY WING – is our go to travel medical insurance company, especially for longer trips. You can either purchase a monthly plan or a plan for specific trip dates (i.e. 1-2 week trips). They cover people from all over the world, while outside their home country.
ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.
Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.
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The Ultimate wine Lover’s guide to Tuscany
3 to 10-day Itineraries of Tuscany
Discover the Best 5 Best Hilltop Towns in Tuscany
12 Amazing Day Trips from Florence