Are you planning a trip to Florence and looking to explore beyond the city limits? There are plenty of fantastic day trips you can take from Florence to discover the beauty and charm of Tuscany and its surrounding regions. From quaint hilltop towns to stunning vineyards and picturesque countryside, here are the 15 best day trips from Florence that you don’t want to miss.
Florence is the capital of the Tuscany region in central Italy and is home to many Renaissance masterpieces, including Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus. While there’s no shortage of things to do and see in the city, it’s also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, wine, or just beautiful scenery, there’s something for everyone on this list of the best day trips from Florence.
Siena
Located about an hour south of Florence, Siena is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Italian history and architecture. The city is famous for its well-preserved medieval center and is home to many beautiful buildings and landmarks, including the Gothic cathedral and the Piazza del Campo, which is considered one of the most beautiful public squares in Europe.
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San Gimignano
Another picturesque medieval town that’s worth visiting is San Gimignano, located about an hour’s drive southwest of Florence. The town is known for its impressive towers, which were built by wealthy families during the Middle Ages to show off their wealth and power. Today, visitors can climb some of the towers for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
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Pisa
No trip to Tuscany would be complete without a visit to Pisa and its famous leaning tower. Located just an hour west of Florence, Pisa is a charming city that’s home to several historic buildings, including the Romanesque cathedral and the Baptistery. Of course, the highlight of any visit to Pisa is the Leaning Tower, which leans at an angle of nearly four degrees and attracts millions of visitors every year.
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Lucca
Located about an hour northwest of Florence, Lucca is a charming walled city that’s known for its well-preserved Renaissance-era walls and beautiful churches. Visitors can rent bicycles and ride around the city walls or explore the narrow streets and alleyways on foot. Be sure to visit the stunning Duomo di San Martino and climb the Guinigi Tower for incredible views of the city.
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Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre is a group of five picturesque villages on the Ligurian coast, about two hours north of Florence. Visitors can hike along the scenic coastal path that connects the villages or take a train or boat between them. Each village has its own unique charm, and the colorful houses and stunning views of the Mediterranean make for a truly unforgettable day trip.
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Montepulciano and Pienza
Located about an hour and a half southeast of Florence, the towns of Montepulciano and Pienza are famous for their stunning views and delicious food and wine. Montepulciano is known for its Vino Nobile wine and medieval architecture, while Pienza is famous for its pecorino cheese and Renaissance buildings. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Val d’Orcia
The Val d’Orcia is a beautiful region of Tuscany known for its rolling hills, picturesque villages, and stunning landscapes. Located about an hour and a half southeast of Florence, this area is perfect for a leisurely drive or bike ride. Be sure to stop in the charming town of Montalcino for a taste of its famous Brunello di Montalcino wine.
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Chianti
No trip to Tuscany would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Chianti wine region. Located just a short drive south of Florence, this area is known for its beautiful vineyards, charming villages, and delicious wines. Visitors can take a wine-tasting tour or explore the countryside on foot or by bike.
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Cortona
The town of Cortona, located about an hour and a half southeast of Florence, is a charming hilltop town that’s famous for its beautiful views and Etruscan ruins. Visitors can explore the winding streets and alleys, visit the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, or take in the views from the Piazza Garibaldi.
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Arezzo
Arezzo is a historic town located about an hour and a half southeast of Florence. It’s known for its beautiful churches and museums, including the Basilica di San Francesco and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale. Be sure to also visit the Piazza Grande, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy.
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Volterra
Volterra is a beautiful hilltop town located about an hour southwest of Florence. It’s known for its Etruscan ruins, including the Porta all’Arco and the Necropolis of the Etruscan Acropolis. Visitors can also explore the medieval town center, which is full of beautiful buildings and charming shops and restaurants.
Bologna
Bologna is a vibrant city located about an hour and a half north of Florence. It’s known for its stunning architecture, including the Two Towers and the Basilica di San Petronio. Visitors can also explore the city’s famous food markets and sample some of the delicious local specialties, including mortadella and tagliatelle al ragù.
Perugia
Perugia is a charming hilltop town located about two hours southeast of Florence. It’s known for its beautiful medieval architecture, including the Palazzo dei Priori and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Visitors can also explore the town’s many museums, including the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale dell’Umbria.
Assisi
Assisi is a beautiful town located about two hours southeast of Florence. It’s famous for being the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi and is home to many beautiful churches and monuments, including the Basilica di San Francesco and the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli. Visitors can also explore the town’s charming streets and shops and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Conclusion
Florence is a fantastic base for exploring the many beautiful towns and regions of Tuscany and beyond. From medieval hilltop towns to stunning vineyards and beautiful coastline, there’s something for everyone on this list of the 14 best day trips from Florence. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to discover the beauty and charm of Italy.
FAQs
What is the best way to get to these day trip destinations from Florence?
The best way to get to these day trip destinations from Florence is by car, as it offers the most flexibility and allows you to explore at your own pace. However, if you prefer not to drive, there are also plenty of guided tours and public transportation options available.
Do I need to book a tour or can I explore on my own?
It’s entirely up to you! If you prefer the convenience of a guided tour, there are plenty of options available. However, if you prefer to explore on your own, it’s easy to rent a car or take public transportation to most of these destinations.
How long does it take to get to these day trip destinations from Florence?
The travel time varies depending on the destination, but most of these day trips can be reached within two hours of Florence.
What should I bring on a day trip from Florence?
Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera to capture the beautiful scenery, and plenty of water and snacks. You may also want to bring a map or GPS device to help you navigate the winding roads.
Are these day trips suitable for families with children?
Yes, many of these day trip destinations are suitable for families with children. However, be sure to check ahead of time to make sure there are activities and attractions that will appeal to your children.
