Ah, Firenze. Before our last trip to Florence, where we spent five days exploring (read: eating and drinking) our way through the city, Alysha wasn’t too fond. “It’s too touristy!” she said. And she’s not exactly wrong – Florence sees an ENORMOUS number of tourists, especially in the height of summer – but there’s a reason for that. The cuisine, the art, and, we’d argue, the location in Italy.
Given its central location in the heart of Tuscany in central Italy roughly equidistant from Rome and Venice, and Italy`s high-speed rail network, Florence serves as an ideal home base for exploring the entire span between Rome and Venice/Milan.
From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the picturesque vineyards surrounding Chianti, the medieval charm of Siena to the food-focused haven of Bologna, there are so numerous amazing day trips from Florence that it’s easy to fill up your Italian itinerary in no time at all.
If you’re still planning your trip, we actually recommend allocating at least one extra day following your Florence itinerary for a day trip excursion.
This guide will take you through nine day trip locations that we have personally visited and enjoyed in the past. We`ll provide the key details – such as transportation options without use of a private vehicle and top attractions to experience – so that you can start planning your excursion.
Are there more than nine day trips that you could take from Florence? Yes. But these are our nine favorites.
A brief note. All of the suggested Florence day trips below are within two hours of Florence by automobile or public transit. Any longer duration and you’ll require more time – otherwise you’ll spend half your day traveling there and back.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.
How to Get From Florence to Your Day Trip Destination
Many of Florence’s day excursions are conveniently accessible by train or bus. Italy has a good national public transportation network, particularly between the larger cities for example Florence, Milan, Rome, and Venice.
However, public transportation within rural Tuscany can be a little more unpredictable. As a result, you won’t be able to reach some of the smaller destinations below without a car or taking a guided tour.
If exploring destinations in Tuscany that are less easily accessible is of interest, renting a vehicle for a day may be one means to do so.
While we wouldn’t recommend renting a vehicle for your whole stay in Florence – you definitely won’t need one for navigating within the city itself.
An escorted tour may be a more convenient, though somewhat pricier, option.
Health club-style full-service spa, fully-equipped fitness center with personal trainers and free fruits/beverages, beautiful indoor 18m-long pool, and a full-service marina providing water transportation
You’ll also have a local guide who will plan your day and teach you about the places you visit.
If aiming to combine San Gimignano, Chianti, and Siena into one day, it will be a lengthy day, but this excursion with Take Walks (which is one of our favorite tour agencies on earth – read our review of our Colosseum Tour in Rome to learn why), covers San Gimignano, Chianti, and Siena in one action-packed 10 hour day.
Read More: How to Plan an Amazing Tuscany Itinerary
The 9 Best Day Trips from Florence: A Complete Guide
And now, on to nine superb day trips that we’d recommend.
For each, we’ll provide our perspective on obtaining access (public transportation, guided tour, or vehicle rental), along with our favored activities and sights to experience.
Bologna
Situated just north of Florence, Bologna is a charming and historic city with a certain vibrancy and youthful spirit thanks to its prestigious university.
Venice is also one of Italy`s more genuine major urban areas, offering a stark comparison to the open museum that is Florence.
We enjoy spending time in Bologna for a few reasons. One, it presents a refreshing change from some of Italy’s other popular cities where tourists make up most of the people you’ll find on the streets.
Wandering the porticoed medieval streets, travelers feel among regular locals rather than swarms of photographers, taking in the everyday rhythm of places seldom overrun by busy touring crowds.
It’s like real people actually live in the city, which is something you sometimes forget in places like Rome and Florence.
Secondly, and arguably most significantly for your culinary interests, it is renowned as one of Italy`s top food destinations.
Bologna is situated in the heartland of Emilia-Romagna, Italy`s culinary region, making it an ideal day trip from Florence for food enthusiasts. Many famous Italian delicacies and dishes originate from this city and surrounding area.
Be sure to come hungry – you will want to sample everything on offer!
, which is the perfect way to fill your day trip!
How to Get from Florence to Bologna
We would advise against traveling to Bologna from Florence by car. Driving takes approximately an hour and a half, which is notably longer than taking the train. Additionally, parking in Bologna is fairly expensive and difficult to find.
By train. Travelling to Bologna from Florence by train is an easy day trip and one of the quickest public transport options. Direct high-speed trains run regularly each day from the Florence Santa Maria Novella station to Bologna, with the trip taking just 35 minutes.
On a guided tour.This foodie journey from Florence will take visitors to explore both Bologna and certain parts of the wider Emilia-Romagna region in a day. It involves a Bologna food tour, as well as a visit to a small farm producing artisanal balsamic vinegar and a Parmigiano-Reggiano manufacturing plant.
What to Do in Bologna
These are some of our favorite things to do in Bologna in a day.
Climb the Asinelli Tower for Great Views
Garisenda and Asinelli (also known as the Two Towers) are the most famous of Bologna’s numerous slender medieval towers filling the city skyline. With their unusual inward tilts, the twin towers are an important symbol of the city.
If you`re on the hunt for an alternative to the more famous leaning tower of Pisa, this could make for a worthy option (and we prefer Bologna considerably more than Pisa).
Asinelli towers highest at 97.2 meters tall, standing as the tallest architectural structure in Bologna. Panoramic perspectives of the city can be enjoyed after paying €5 to ascend the 498 winding wooden staircase.
Interesting fact: Garisenda was once the same height as Asinelli but had to be shortened in the 14th century due to its increasing lean. Dubbed the “leaning tower of Bologna”, it’s no longer possible to climb the smaller of the two towers.
Eat Your Heart Out
Bologna is among Italy’s top cities for food, so indulging in plenty of tasty Italian cuisine while there is essential!
Mortadella and filled pasta such as tortelloni both originate from Bologna. Tagliatelle al Ragù Alla Bolognese is another famous dish you must try – you’ll be amazed how different it is to the Americanized Spaghetti Bolognese.
The broader Emilia-Romagna region is also the birthplace of just about every delicious food commonly associated with Italy. Such products include Parmesan cheese, prosciutto di Parma, balsamic vinegar, and Lambrusco wine – all originating from the locality.
To sample some of the best cuisine in Bologna, head anywhere in Quadrilatero. Situated just off Piazza Maggiore, the city’s historic food quarter is packed with countless incredible market stalls, delis, cafes, and restaurants.
Take a Bologna Food Tour
Another way to experience Bologna’s culinary scene is by undertaking a guided food tour with a local specialist.
We think this food tour could be worthwhile, taking visitors to Florence`s busy marketplace as well as some clandestine gems.
In 4 hours, you’ll sample plenty of local delicacies, from fresh pasta to homemade gelato. The tour includes a visit to an artisanal pasta workshop, so you can watch tagliatelle and tortelloni being crafted from scratch before you.
Visit Piazza Maggiore and Basilica di San Petronio
Piazza Maggiore is the beating heart of Bologna and one of Italy’s finest squares in our view. A visit to the city isn`t complete without stepping onto the square.
The massive central square is encircled by many of Bologna`s most significant structures, such as several grand palaces and the unfinished façade of Basilica di San Petronio.
Basilica di San Petronio is an incredible specimen of Italian Gothic architectural style. The building of the church commenced in the 14th century but was never finished. Despite the incomplete marble façade, it remains the most notable church in the city and is certainly worth a visit.
Access to the basilica and its museum are completely free. Although, you’ll need to pay €5 to visit the rooftop terrace.
Climb to Santuario Madonna di San Luca
Bologna is renowned for its many porticoes, and you can walk through 666 (someone has a sense of humor) of them on the 4km pilgrimage up to hilltop Santuario Madonna di San Luca.
The scenic hike takes roughly 45 minutes, involves a steady incline, and is mostly sheltered by overhangs, so it`s not overly taxing.
However, if the walk feels like too much exertion for you, you can also hop on the San Luca Express street train to reach the impressive 18th-century church and viewpoint. The train will select you up in Piazza Maggiore and swiftly transport you to the church on the hill, which will cost €12 for a round trip ticket.
Dive Deep into Parmesan-Reggiano
For food enthusiasts traveling, another must-visit destination in the Emilia-Romagna region is Reggio Emilia, the birthplace of parmesan cheese. You can visit the town on a separate day trip from Florence, or combine it with the nearby city of Bologna.
The optimal method to explore Reggio Emilia is on a guided scenic tour. We did this “Keys of Parmigiano Reggiano” scenic tour and it was incredible – the pinnacle of our last voyage to Italy.
The tour includes pickup at Reggio-Emilia AV station, a visit to a farm and factory where you get to watch and learn about the process of making Parmigiano-Reggiano, and a tasting of several local products.
Guests even receive 500 grams of vacuum packed parmesan cheese to take home with them.
Lucca
Situated near the popular city of Pisa, Lucca is a good alternative for those seeking respite from large crowds of tourists.
The city’s tranquil ambiance and alluring architecture make it one of our favorite places to spend a day away from Florence.
What makes the old Tuscan city so unique are the intact walls from the Renaissance era.
Within the walls, visitors will find an enchanting maze of cobblestone streets, countless historic churches, cozy cafes situated inside medieval buildings, and one of Italy’s most unusually formed main squares.
Lucca makes for an ideal day venture allowing leisurely wandering and relaxing over a sustained lunch with wine (or three) while people-watching in a local square.
How to Get from Florence to Lucca
By train. Despite the neighboring positioning of the two cities, only slow regional trains run between Florence and Lucca, which can require up to one hour and 45 minutes. The train provides a direct route and scenic views along the course are appreciated. It presents a good option for a brief half day excursion from Florence.
By vehicle. Travelling from Florence to Lucca solely by car may be a preferable option. The journey takes approximately one hour under regular traffic conditions. However, motor vehicles are prohibited within Lucca’s Old Town, so parking must occur outside the city walls with a 15 minute walk required to enter (it’s just a quarter hour trek). We’d suggest parking at Parcheggio Carducci to the south of the city, as it costs a mere €1 per hour.
What to Do in Lucca
Some of the top things to do in Lucca for a day trip from Florence are detailed below.
Walk the City Walls
Lucca`s ancient walls are the city`s most renowned attraction. And rightfully so. Extending over 4.2km around the city, it is one of the most impressive and well-maintained protective structures of its kind.
What makes the walls particularly unique is that they were built during the Renaissance era rather than the typical medieval walls found encasing many other European cities. Hence, their much shorter and wider form.
The walls have since been transformed into a charming tree-lined promenade, which is ideal for appreciating a calm stroll amongst the greenery. From the walkway, you’ll be treated to some magnificent views over the rooftops of Lucca on one side and the Tuscan hills on the other.
Climb Guinigi Tower
Standing 125 feet tall, the Guinigi Tower is the tallest building in Lucca. Built by the wealthy Guinigi family in the 14th century, the Romanesque-Gothic style tower was one of just a few that survived the numerous medieval raids and battles in the city.
The tower has a unique rooftop garden containing several ancient oak trees providing shelter from the sun. The serene garden offers magnificent views over the red rooftops of Lucca and out to the surrounding hills. So it`s certainly worthwhile to pay the €5 entry fee and climb the 230 steps to the top (there`s also a lift).
Step Inside Duomo di San Martino
Known as “The City of 100 Churches”, touring at least one of Lucca’s numerous historic religious structures is essential.
Duomo di San Martino is Lucca’s grand Roman Catholic cathedral and our top recommendation to see. The church’s impressive exterior in the Romanesque style holds an interior of equal impressiveness, so be sure to head inside.
Inside the 11th-century cathedral, you’ll find remarkable frescoes, a carved medieval crucifix known as “the holy face” – the face was said to have been carved by a disciple so is the true face of Jesus – and the intricate tomb of Ilaria del Carretto, the young wife of Lucca’s Lord Paolo Guinigi.
Entrance costs just €3 and includes the small treasury museum displaying important religious works.
Visit Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
Lucca’s central Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is the sole oval-shaped piazza in the country, rendering it one of the area’s most exceptional attractions.
The piazza was named after the 1st-century Roman amphitheater that once stood in the area. Around the middle ages, the ancient amphitheater ruins were converted into a public square, encircled by towering medieval houses.
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is now home to various eateries, coffee shops, and the town`s market. Remnants of the original Roman ruins can also still be seen around the square.
Chianti
Situated directly south of Florence, Chianti is Italy’s biggest wine-producing region and one of the earliest areas in the world legally defined for wine making.
It is renowned for cultivating the world-famous Chianti Classico red wine, which is one of the most prestigious wines that emanates from Italy.
And, to be honest, the wine is why you`ll make the day trip here. Other towns offer more charm and interest, but Chianti has the finest opportunities for wine tasting near Florence.
The region’s main hubs are the charming little town of Badia a Passignano,Castellina,Radda, and Greve. All of these places are worth visiting if time allows. But the real highlight of Chianti is its many vineyards, which are spread throughout the area.
Chianti’s vineyards are scattered amongst the region’s rolling hills, broken up by olive groves, quaint stone farmhouses, grand Renaissance villas, imposing medieval castles, and sleek modern wineries.
Many of the local wineries offer tours and tastings, allowing you to learn about wine production in the region, and — of course — sample plenty of the local products.
How to Get from Florence to Chianti
By public transportation. Castellina can be reached from Florence by train, while Greve and Radda are accessible by bus. However, we wouldn’t suggest using public transportation to visit Chianti as it will limit your visit to just the towns. You won’t get a chance to explore the region’s beautiful scenery or see the famous vineyards. We’d highly recommend going by car or guided tour instead.
By motor vehicle. Many of the most popular places to visit in Chianti are somewhere between 20 minutes and one hour from Florence if one travels by car. Having an automobile will provide more freedom to explore and see lesser known vineyards and scenic overlooks off the beaten path. However, the major downside to exploring Chianti by car is that someone must commit to not partaking in wine tastings so they can drive, foregoing that experience.
Regarding a guided experience. A wine tour is our highest proposed method for visiting Chianti from Florence if you don`t have a vehicle. You have two possibilities here – a tour to one vineyard where you`ll delve deeply into Chianti wine, or multiple wineries where you`ll get to see various approaches. We participated in this one and truly enjoyed the experience.
What to Do in Chianti
The two primary activities to enjoy in the Chianti region involve eating and drinking!
Visit a Winery or Three
Visiting a winery in Chianti is a top Italian experience for wine lovers.
A nearly limitless number of vineyards welcome tastings, and our top recommendation avoids huge commercial operations focusing instead on small producers who dedicate time explaining winemaking approaches and discussing wines in detail.
An ideal winery visit involves touring the vineyards, observing production, cellar visits, and plenty of paired Chianti wine and local snacks.
All while gaining knowledge about the winemaking process directly from a local vintner.
If you’re visiting the Chianti region independently rather than on an organized excursion yet still wish to partake in winery visits and wine tastings, it’s prudent to schedule an appointment in advance (particularly during the summer peak season).
Take a Cooking Class
The Chianti agricultural area is also renowned for producing some exceptional olive oils, cheeses, and meats. All perfect pairings for an enjoyable glass of red wine.
One of the best ways to experience the cuisine of Chianti is by taking a cooking lesson.
This small group cooking class is held in a traditional hillside woodland home with locals Luca and Lorenzo.
During the hands-on class, you’ll learn how to create different types of pasta, tasty sauces, and a delicious dessert.
You’ll then get to enjoy your feast alongside some Italian snacks, homemade oils, and three local wines.
Siena
During the 13th and 14th centuries, the hilltop city of Siena vied with nearby Florence in wealth and influence. And similar to Florence, it`s where some of the finest art and architecture from all of Italy can be found.
Siena is perhaps the best illustration of a hilltop Tuscan town, with its terra cotta rooftops cascading down the hill from the city center situated at the top of the elevation.
Today, Siena is one huge open museum. Its unparalleled medieval architecture has earned the city recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can not help but embrace love while wandering on the slim cobbled streets, winding in the midst of Gothic chapels, imposing castles, towering medieval towers, and characteristic red mud brick homes.
However, Siena’s beauty also attracts large crowds that rival even Florence and Pisa. The city can become extremely busy.
The busiest time of year in Siena falls in peak summer when the city hosts its famous Palio horse race on Piazza del Campo.
The historic event has been taking place in Siena since the 15th century. It sees 10 riders from distinct districts of the city race bareback around the large square.
The race takes place twice yearly, on 2nd July and 16th August, and is a fantastic – though crowded and expensive – time to visit the city.
How to Get from Florence to Siena
By train. Siena is simple and easy to reach from Florence by rail. A direct train runs from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Siena, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
By car. If you have access to a vehicle, you can reach Siena by road in around one hour. But we wouldn’t advise renting a car solely for this day trip – public transportation is cheaper and easier. If you do arrive in Siena by car, park either here or here – we parked at both places with no issues. Both parking lots cost €2 per hour.
On a guided tour. You can also see Siena on an escorted trip from Florence. We love Take Walks, and would check out this tour which includes Siena, Chianti, and San Gimignano in one action-packed day.
What to Do in Siena
Below are some of the most worthwhile attractions and activities in Siena that can be experienced in a single day from Florence.
Visit the Cathedral
Siena’s cathedral is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in all of Italy.
Its striking facade is characterized by rows of varying stone and marble adorned with statues and carvings by renowned artist Giovanni Pisano, while the church’s large dome and black-and-white striped tower rise high above the city skyline.
And if the cathedral`s impressive exterior leaves you stunned, just wait until stepping inside. Lavishly decorated with amazing frescoes, paintings, carvings, and vibrant stained-glass windows by some of the city`s greatest artistic minds.
Additionally, if the floor is uncovered (which isn`t always the case), you`re in for a treat viewing its intricate mosaic patterns.
You’ll need around sixty minutes to investigate the cathedral’s numerous chapels, crypt, library, and museum.
Be sure not to neglect seeing the viewpoint on the museum`s top floor for magnificent views across the city.
Take a Stroll around Piazza del Campo
Piazza del Campo is Siena’s main square and one of the most impressive of its genre in all of Europe.
Surrounded by historic palaces, charming cafes, and lively bars, the square acts as a hub of social activity in the city. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon drink in the sun on a terrace and watch the world pass by.
The large, sloped square is also renowned for hosting the city’s annual Palio horse race each summer, which has gained international fame.
Go on a Walking Tour
Siena has a long and interesting history. And touring with a local guide is a great way to learn about it.
We did this tour and it was an comprehensive induction to Sienese history and culture. It even included a visit to the cathedral, which is a fascinating place to explore with a guide who can teach you about the architectural elements and historic artwork.
Eat and Drink
Similar to the rest of Tuscany (and indeed, much of Italy), Siena is renowned as a top gastronomic destination with many delectable local specialties to sample.
- Sample cantucci.Cantucci is a crunchy baked good containing almonds that`s akin to biscotti. Originally from the neighboring Tuscan city of Prato, the sweet treat has become celebrated in Siena and a common approach to concluding a meal. Two of the best places in Siena to find cantucci is Bakery Il Magnifico.
- Enjoy a coffee at Torrefazione Fiorella.A traditional Italian coffee bar that serves artisanal coffee and freshly baked pastries. Situated just a minute from Piazza del Campo, Torrefazione Fiorella is a perfect first stop of the day.
- Indulge in sandwiches at Du’ Cose Da Berna.We obtained this lunch suggestion from the host where we stayed. Located near the cathedral, Du’ Cose Da Berna is a conventional deli and cafe that serves enormous freshly-made sandwiches packed with local components (meats, cheeses, and veggies). Regrettably, there were no gluten-free options, so we had to miss out – but you shouldn’t!
San Gimignano
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990, the medieval town of San Gimignano in the Tuscan hills is one of the best day trips you can take from Florence and a jewel of Tuscany.
It provides one of the finest examples of a traditional Tuscan hilltop town, though Siena presents perhaps a slightly better illustration.
At one time, the small town displayed over 70 soaring towers defining its skyline, earning it the singular title of the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages.” Today, only 14 towers still stand tall. Still, the town retains its name as Italy’s “City of Towers”!
Considering its small size, there is plenty available to see and do in San Gimignano.
As well as climbing the historic towers, you can take a walk around the well-preserved city walls, explore the ornately decorated Romanesque cathedral, and visit the city’s many museums.
How to Get from Florence to San Gimignano
By public transportation. Reaching San Gimignano from Florence by public transportation isn’t the simplest, but it is feasible. You’ll need to take the train from Florence to Poggibonsi-San Gimignano station, which takes around an hour. You can then get a small regional bus (line 130) to San Gimignano in about 25 minutes.
By private vehicle. The historic town of San Gimignano is located 50km southwest of Florence and can be reached by car in less than one hour. Motor vehicles are prohibited within the historic center but parking is accessible just beyond the city walls. When arriving from Florence, direct yourself to the P3 Bagnaia Superiore or P4 Bagnaia Inferiore parking lots, situated as near to the center as vehicles are allowed. Both facilities charge €2 per hour.
Through a guided excursion. You can also explore San Gimignano accompanied by a guide from Florence. We are quite fond of Take Walks, a tour company we’ve used for multiple excursions (read about our Colosseum Tour), and they propose this tour which incorporates San Gimignano, Siena, and Chianti in a single day. It’s ambitious, but it’s one of the better choices if you want to reach San Gimignano without a vehicle.
What to Do in San Gimignano
Below are our recommendations for the best things to do in San Gimignano.
Climb the Torre Grossa at Palazzo Comunale
Towering at 177 feet, Torre Grossa – meaning `Big Tower` in English – is the tallest of San Gimignano’s remaining medieval towers. The imposing structure functions as the bell tower of the Palazzo Communale, the city’s town hall building.
Torre Grossa is one of just two towers open to the public. One can climb the 218 steps to reach the top and enjoy beautiful panoramic views over the historic town and surrounding hills.
However, be warned that you need to climb a steep ladder to reach the top floor of the tower – so it’s not for the faint of heart.
A handful of rooms also display artistic works included in the entrance fee. Browsing is worthwhile, though it only filled 10-15 minutes during our visit.
Drink Vernaccia di San Gimignano
If, like us, your wine preferences tend towards dry whites with mineral qualities, Tuscany is going to prove a bit shocking. Enter Vernaccia, the region’s major white varietal, to save the day!
Discover Vernaccia, the primary white wine produced around San Gimignano in Tuscany. As white wine drinkers, this was a delight among the region`s more typical deep, dark reds.
Secondly, multiple locations that make our “best places to eat and drink” section in our New York City itinerary were situated in Brooklyn.
One of the town’s newest attractions, the Wine Experience, is a multi-media museum that allows visitors to deeply explore the history and culture of the local wines.
Here they offer various versions of Vernaccia that can be sampled (it`s not complimentary) by purchasing a tasting card with credits that can be redeemed using the automatic dispensers on site. It operates similarly to a vending machine, but dispenses Vernaccia.
Eat at Le Vecchie Mura
The other thing to understand is that there is a section right before the top that involves a rope-assisted ascent.
Le Vecchie Mura was our most enjoyed restaurant in San Gimignano, a great spot to sample wild boar – try the stew if available!
The establishment has a lovely outdoor terrace ideal for relaxing in the Tuscan sun on a hot day. They also offer gluten-free pasta, always a bonus for me as I have celiac disease.
Gelato at Gelateria Dondoli
For dessert, head to award-winning Gelateria Dondoli for a delicious and refreshing Italian gelato. The local gelateria features many imaginative, unusual, and occasionally downright peculiar flavor combinations.
Two summers ago, we stopped in Sacramento on our way up to a camping excursion in Lake Tahoe.
The Val d’Orcia (Pienza, Montalcino, and Montepulciano)
The Val d’Orcia region of Tuscany centered around the picturesque towns of Pienza and Montepulciano. In our view, this is the finest part of Tuscany.
The charming hilltop towns offer stunning views over the surrounding Tuscan countryside, characterized by its rolling hills, historic vineyards, and cypress trees leading to grand estates.
The region is also the birthplace of world-renowned Brunello wine and delicious Pecorino cheese (there’s a version here that is served baked in a cast iron pan and drizzled with local honey called “pecorino con miele” – you should order it if you see it.” .
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The Val d’Orcia is quintessential Tuscany, in our opinion..
How to Get from Florence to the Val d’Orcia
Regrettably, access to Val d’Orcia via public transportation is limited. Visiting by private vehicle or guided tour is best advised.
By automobile. The towns of Pienza and Montepulciano are roughly one to two hours from Florence depending on traffic flow. Like most historic areas, vehicles can`t enter central locations but parking surrounds walls in both at a fee.
On an escorted tour. Another great way to explore the Val d’Orcia is on a day excursion from Florence. This guided tour takes you to the region’s three most renowned towns, while also sampling plenty of local wine and Pecorino cheese.
What to Do in the Val d’Orcia
With only a single day in Val d’Orcia, we recommend focusing your time within two or three of the towns to make the most of your trip given the distance required. As one of the furthest day trips from here, setting out early will help you fit more into your itinerary before returning.
Montepulciano
Montepulciano is a lovely little Tuscan town perched on the edge of a volcanic rock cliff face, with twisting medieval streets enveloped by grand Renaissance buildings.
It’s one of the most popular towns in Tuscany, and it gets crushingly busy in the summertime from around 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
During a visit, you can tour the many places of worship, wander through antique plazas, and sip the town’s signature Vino Nobile di Montepulciano red wine.
Pienza
The hilltop town of Pienza has excellent views, especially to the south, with its strategic location. We stayed near Pienza when visiting the Val d`Orcia, so found ourselves there various times.
We’d recommend going to Bar Il Casello for excellent coffee, La Taverna del Pecorino for cheese – the town is renowned for pecorino di Pienza – then heading to this viewpoint for our preferred view in town.
Just a 10 minute drive outside of Pienza, La Taverna del Barbarossa is where we enjoyed one of our favorite meals in all of Tuscany.
It was at the restaurant where we initially discovered wild boar ragu AND pecorino con miele – both of which are delicious and became staples for the rest of our eating in Tuscany.
The unanticipated establishment also offers an extensive gluten free menu, which proved beneficial for us.
Montalcino
The municipality of Montalcino is considered the heart of Tuscany’s world renowned Brunello red wine manufacturing.
Most of the vineyards are found on the south side of town, and the drive is beautiful, winding through a valley with vineyards lining both sides of the route.
We visited the Ciacci Piccolomini D’Aragona vineyard to see what all the buzz was about and thoroughly enjoyed our trip.
While we liked the rosso al Montalcino more than the famous Brunello because it was lighter and fruitier, we enjoyed learning about the different production methods for Brunello.
While it is essentially the same grape variety as Chianti Classico (Sangiovese), the process is completely different, resulting in a different wine.
Those interested in touring are advised to make reservations ahead of time for convenience, though when we attended in autumn, others simply showed up without issue.
Additionally, do not miss the nearby Abbazia di Sant`Antimo, an enchanting former Benedictine monastery nestled among the greenery of the region.
Verona
Verona is an undervalued gem in northern Italy that’s all too often overlooked in favor of its famous neighbor Venice – but we absolutely cherish Verona.
It`s also a simple day trip from Florence thanks to a high-speed train running between Florence and Venice that makes stops in Verona as well.
Known as Italy’s “City of Love”, Verona is most notable for being the imaginary setting of Shakespeare’s romantic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet.
However, whenever Verona is discussed, we feel obliged to point out that the Casa di Giulietta in Verona is, perhaps, the most disappointing tourist attraction we’ve ever experienced. Skip it, save your money, and thank us afterwards.
But the fondness of Verona does not end here. Extended strolls along the Adige River, wandering over amazing bridges, sampling Prosecco in lively plazas, and touring historic fortresses with spectacular hilltop perspectives. All without the huge crowds of many other northern Italian cities. Really nothing quite matches it.
How to Get from Florence to Verona
Traveling to Verona can occupy up to 3 hours, which is a lot of travel time for just one day. We’d propose heading there by prepare instead.
By train. The quickest method of visiting Verona from Florence is using the train. A direct high-speed train runs regularly each day and takes just one hour and thirty minutes. It’s worth noting that Verona’s train station is situated around a quarter-hour walk from the historic city center, though there are various buses that will take you into the center.
What to Do in Verona
The northern Italian city is fairly small, so one day in Verona provides more than enough time. Below are things you shouldn’t miss.
The Arena di Verona
Verona Arena is among the oldest and largest Roman amphitheaters across Italy – it in fact predates the more renowned colosseum in Rome. Today, the superbly preserved structure and archaeological location are accessible to the public wishing to explore. It is still utilized for opera performances and musical concerts during the summer months.
You can explore the arena independently for €10, or on an escorted tour. The substantial amphitheatre is an amazing sight. Though, we found the signage inside was somewhat lacking. So if you’re especially interested in learning about the arena’s history, an escorted tour may be worthwhile.
Museo Archeologico al Teatro Romano
Not to be perplexed with the amphitheater, Verona’s Roman Theatre is another significant historic site and home to an intriguing archaeological museum. The unsuspecting museum is undoubtedly a hidden gem and somewhere we almost skipped altogether. But we’re extremely glad we didn’t and you shouldn’t either.
The museum holds some truly fascinating artifacts from the area that are over a thousand years old. Additionally, there are some magnificent views from the outdoors section of the museum.
Admire the View from Castel San Pietro
Positioned atop a hill on the eastern bank of the Adige River, medieval Castel San Pietro is where you will find some of the finest complimentary perspectives over the city.
The perspectives from the fortress at night are particularly spectacular, making it a great spot for a scenic picnic as the sun sets over the city.
You’ll need to climb up a long flight of stairs to reach the castle, but it’s worth the effort for the views along the way. You can also take the funicular, which costs €2 per person each way and closes at 8:45 pm.
Milan
Located over 300km north of the Tuscan city, Milan may not be the most obvious day trip from Florence. But thanks to Italy’s high-speed train network, it’s actually feasible to reach the northern city in less than 2 hours.
The financial center of Italy has a fully different atmosphere than most other major cities. Milan feels far more modern and fashion-focused than the rest of the country – something noticed immediately upon arrival.
It’s also deserving of discussion that Milan is a HUGE city, so if you only have a day to investigate, the 24 hour rail card is well worth it.
How to Get from Florence to Milan
Travel between Florence and Milan by vehicle will take approximately 4-5 hours. Obviously this amount of driving for one single day is quite excessive. If you do wish to visit Milan on a day trip from Florence, public transportation is the preferable choice.
By rail. The high-speed train connecting Florence and Milan can make the journey in under two hours in some cases, impressively reaching the destination in as little as one hour and forty minutes.
What to Do in Milan
One day in Milan isn`t enough time to experience and see everything this large metropolis has to offer, but we recommend focusing on the below.
The Duomo di Milano
The Duomo di Milano is renowned globally for its intricate architecture and imposing façade. It`s unsurprising that it`s one of the most photographed landmarks in all of Italy.
The real highlight of the Duomo for us was accessing the terraces, where you can appreciate just how incredibly elaborate the construction truly is. Plus, the views over Milan aren’t unsatisfactory either.
The Last Supper
Leonardo Da Vinci`s Final Supper portrays Jesus and his disciples having their ultimate meal jointly and is one of the most famous paintings globally.
The iconic painting is housed inside a small convent next to the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in central Milan.
Tickets to view the artwork can be quite difficult to obtain. You can find our top tips for securing your tickets in our full Milan guide here.
Castello Sforzesco and Parco Sempione
Parco Sempione is Milan’s largest green space. With its central pond and abundance of trees, the park is the perfect location to escape the built-up city center for a period of time.
The park is also home to the medieval Castello Sforzesco fortress. You can freely walk around the castle`s central courtyard. Or if time allows (it may be difficult in a single day), the castle houses several interesting museums worth exploring.
Eat Ossobuco and Risotto alla Milanese
Ossobuco, a specialty of the Lombard region, features veal shanks that have been cooked slowly with vegetables, white wine, and broth. In Milan, the dish is often served alongside risotto alla milanese, a tasty saffron rice dish. You can find the meal in restaurants all throughout Milan, so be sure to give it a try.
We did not know Milan has canals until we began researching our trip there
As it turns out, Milan used to look visually similar to Venice before most of the canals were covered so as to make way for the modern city seen today.
Fortunately, there is still one district where you can enjoy the canals of Milan – Naviglio. Naviglio Grande (the main canal) is a great place to grab an afternoon aperitif before dinner. The popular local neighborhood is particularly busy around sunset and into the night.
Rome
If, somehow, your excursion to Italy doesn’t include a portion in Rome and you do want to experience it, the nation’s vibrant and historic capital is an easy 90 minute train ride away from Florence Santa Maria Novella station!
A day is nowhere near enough time in Rome. But we understand that not everybody has the gift of time. And the Eternal City is a must-visit when in Italy.
If you have limited time in Rome, we recommend choosing either the Colosseum or the Vatican to experience – giving yourself ample opportunity to explore other areas of the city.
How to Get from Florence to Rome
Do not, under any circumstances, drive to Rome. Thank us later!
By train. The efficient 1 hour 30 minute train from Florence Santa Maria Novella station to Roma Termini also stops at Roma Tiburtina, shaving travel time.>
What to Do in Rome
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Experience the Colosseum and Roman Forum
The Colosseum and Roman Forum are the centerpieces of Ancient Rome and must-sees for any trip to the city. Dating back thousands of years, the profound depth of history and culture condensed in this small area is truly staggering.
The enormous Roman amphitheater and archaeological site are located a brief distance from each other, so it makes sense to visit them together.
The preferable approach to visit the pair (in our view) is on a shared guide trip. We did this tour and delighted in it!
Exploring the many historic treasures of Rome on foot is the best way to experience them. On a self-guided walking tour of the Centro Storico, you can see several of the city`s most renowned landmarks in just a few hours.
To maximize time exploring the city with a limited visit, we recommend following this itinerary:
- Piazza Di Spagna (The Spanish Steps)
- The Trevi Fountain
- The Pantheon
- Piazza Navona
Finish your walk with lunch at Roscioli Caffè, and gelato next door at Fatamorgana. Or if you’ve already eaten, stop for a glass of wine on the terrace of Enoteca Il Piccolo, just off Piazza Navona.
Marvel at the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica
You won’t be able to fit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Vatican into a single day trip. But if you prefer art over history, head to the Vatican instead.
There are two key places you should try to visit within Vatican City (an enclave within Rome) – the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Undoubtedly, the Vatican Museums rank amongst the most renowned of their kind globally, containing approximately twenty thousand works of art, most notably the legendary Sistine Chapel where Michelangelo`s renowned ceiling frescoes are housed.
Renaissance-style St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the largest Christian churches worldwide and the most important in Christendom. While visiting the Vatican, it’s well worth climbing the dome of the church for stunning views over the rooftops of Rome.
These sites are some of the most popular attractions in Rome, so you’ll need to book your tickets in advance to avoid dissatisfaction.
