There are so many amazing day trips that you can take in and around Florence, Italy, that it’s hard to know where to start! This list of the top 10 day trips from Florence, Italy, will help you get started.
Whether you have an entire day or just half a day, there’s always time to get out and explore new places without ever having to leave Florence!
Take a look at our Top 10 Day Trips from Florence Italy including why you should visit and how to get there.
Day Trip One – Pisa
Pisa is one of Italy’s most famous cities, known around the world for its incredible Leaning Tower. But there’s more to see here — from the stunning Cathedral and Baptistery in Piazza dei Miracoli to hidden streets full of local charm. Small, walkable, and full of history, Pisa is the perfect stop for anyone traveling through Tuscany.
Be sure to stop by Pisa at nightfall, when floodlights shine down on the Tower and make it appear as if it might topple over at any moment.
How to Get from Florence to Pisa:
By Train (Fast & Easy)
The quickest way is by train from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station to Pisa Centrale, which takes about 1 hour. Trains run frequently, making it a super convenient option. From the station, it’s a short bus or walk to the Leaning Tower.
By Bus (Affordable, but Slower)
Traveling to Pisa by bus is a budget-friendly option, offering scenic views of the Tuscan countryside. Buses depart regularly from Florence’s main bus stations and arrive near Pisa’s city center, making it convenient for day-trippers. For detailed information on purchasing tickets, understanding schedules, and tips for a smooth journey, check out our guide on How to Buy Bus Tickets in Tuscany.
By Car
If you want the freedom to explore at your own pace, driving from Florence to Pisa takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes along the A11 highway. It’s an easy and scenic route through Tuscany. Just keep in mind that parking in Pisa can be a bit tricky — you’ll probably need to park outside the center and walk to the main sights. If you’re thinking about renting a car, check out our complete guide to renting a car in Italy for tips and advice.
Top Things to See in Pisa During Your Visit
Once you arrive in Pisa, the first stop is the famous Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the iconic Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the beautiful Baptistery. Take a walk through the historic center, where you’ll find charming streets, lively cafés, and the Arno River with its elegant bridges. If you have extra time, don’t miss the Botanical Garden, one of the oldest in Europe.
Day Trip Two – San Gimignano
While a few hours by train is not that far, it feels like you are escaping to another world. San Gimignano is one of Tuscany’s famous medieval towns and is known for its towers.
One thing to keep in mind if visiting during high season, which roughly runs from mid-June through August, is that tours of all of these locations can be pretty crowded, especially when travelling on foot.
Plan ahead and do your research on the different tour options available so you can have an incredible day trip from Florence Italy!
How to Get from Florence to San Gimignano:
By Car (Best Option for Flexibility)
The drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Florence, take the SR222 (Chiantigiana) road through the stunning Chianti countryside. Follow signs for San Gimignano—it’s a beautiful, scenic drive. Just remember, parking can be tricky once you get there, so be prepared to walk a bit!
By Bus (Easy but Less Flexible)
There’s no direct bus from Florence to San Gimignano, but it’s still easy to get there with one simple connection. First, take a bus operated by Autolinee Toscane from Florence to Poggibonsi. From there, transfer to a local bus heading to San Gimignano. The whole journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on connections. Bus tickets are affordable and can be purchased at Florence’s main bus station or online. Always remember to validate your ticket before boarding.
By Train + Bus (Longer, but Scenic)
You can catch a train from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella to Poggibonsi, which takes about 1 hour. From there, catch a bus to San Gimignano (around 20 minutes). This route is a bit more time-consuming but offers some beautiful views along the way.
For detailed directions and travel tips, take a look at our guide on How to Get to San Gimignano from Florence.
Best Things to See and Do in San Gimignano
Start your visit at the beautiful Piazza del Duomo, home to the impressive Collegiate Church with stunning frescoes inside. Stroll through Piazza della Cisterna, a charming triangular square lined with historic buildings and artisan shops. Climb the Torre Grossa, the tallest tower, for breathtaking views over the rolling Tuscan hills. Don’t miss visiting a local gelateria to try award-winning gelato, and if you love wine, enjoy a tasting of Vernaccia di San Gimignano, the town’s celebrated white wine.
If you want more tips on what to see, do, and experience in this beautiful town, check out our full guide on San Gimignano: When to Go, What to Do, and How to Make the Most of Your Visit.
Day Trip Three – Siena
Siena, located about 2 hours south of Florence, is a great day trip for wine enthusiasts. Many small wineries in and around Siena offer tours and tastings that are not to be missed. If you prefer to shop for your own wine or olive oil, several larger grocery stores in town sell a wide variety of locally made products. A large indoor market (covered) also sells local produce, meats, and cheeses.
All of these products can make for a lovely picnic lunch on your return to Florence. And last but not least, you can’t leave Siena without getting your hands on some pecorino cheese – after all, it is home to one of only two DOCG white cheese production areas in Italy!
How to Get from Florence to Siena:
By Bus (Direct & Affordable)
Take a bus from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station to Siena. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Buses run frequently and drop you near the city center, making it a simple and cost-effective option.
By Car (Scenic Drive)
If you’re driving, the A1 highway or SR222 (the Chiantigiana road) will get you to Siena in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The drive is beautiful, especially if you take the Chiantigiana route, winding through rolling vineyards and picturesque Tuscan hills. Be mindful of parking in Siena, as the city center can be crowded and parking can be limited.
By Train + Bus (Longer Option)
Take a train from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella to Siena. While there’s no direct train to Siena, you’ll need to transfer at Empoli (about 30 minutes). Then, hop on a bus for the final leg of the journey. This option can take 2 hours in total, so it’s a bit slower.
What to See and Do in Siena
Start your visit at Piazza del Campo, the heart of the city and one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Europe. This fan-shaped piazza is famous for the Palio di Siena, a thrilling horse race held twice a year, but it’s a lively spot to relax year-round. Grab a coffee at a nearby café, sit back, and soak in the atmosphere.
Right off the piazza, climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views of the rooftops and rolling hills beyond the city walls. It’s a bit of a workout, but the view is absolutely worth it.
Just a short stroll away, you’ll find the stunning Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) — an absolute masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Don’t miss the intricately detailed floors inside the cathedral and the breathtaking Piccolomini Library with its colorful frescoes.
For art lovers, the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo holds incredible sculptures and paintings, while a quiet wander through Siena’s historic streets will reward you with charming hidden corners, local artisan shops, and cozy trattorias.
If you have extra time, consider visiting the Basilica of San Domenico, which houses relics of Saint Catherine of Siena, one of Italy’s most beloved saints.
If you’re planning your visit, check out our complete guide to planning a Siena day trip from Florence for more tips and ideas.
Day Trip Four – Chianti
If you dream of rolling hills, vineyards, and tiny stone villages, Chianti is exactly what you’re looking for. This beautiful region is just a short drive south of Florence and is perfect for a relaxing day out in the Tuscan countryside.
Chianti is famous for its wine — especially Chianti Classico — but there’s so much more to enjoy. You can drive along quiet country roads, stop at small wineries for a tasting, and enjoy long, lazy lunches with a view. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, take a deep breath, and soak in the beauty all around you.
Whether you join a wine tour or explore on your own, spending a day in Chianti feels like stepping into a postcard.
How to Get from Florence to Chianti:
By Car (Best for Flexibility & Scenic Views)
Driving is the easiest way to explore Chianti since it lets you stop at vineyards, charming towns, and scenic spots along the way. The drive takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on your exact destination in Chianti. You can take SR222 (Chiantigiana) for a beautiful route through the heart of the wine region. Just be mindful of the winding roads and limited parking in smaller towns.
By Bus (Affordable, but Less Convenient)
There are buses from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station to various towns in Chianti, like Greve in Chianti or Radda in Chianti. The ride takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, but buses are less frequent, and you might need to plan ahead or catch a bus to a larger town before exploring the smaller villages.
By Train + Bus (A Bit Complicated)
There’s no direct train to Chianti, so you’d need to take a train from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella to Figline Valdarno or Poggibonsi (about 30 minutes), and then catch a bus to your destination in Chianti. This option can take about 1.5 to 2 hours in total and is less convenient than driving.
What to See and Do on a Day Trip to Chianti
Chianti is all about slowing down and enjoying the simple pleasures of Tuscany. Start by visiting one of the many local wineries — most offer tours and tastings where you can sample their Chianti Classico wines and learn about the traditional winemaking process. Some even serve homemade lunches with their own olive oil and seasonal dishes.
Be sure to stop in some of Chianti’s small towns like Greve in Chianti, Radda in Chianti, and Castellina in Chianti. These charming villages are full of little piazzas, wine shops, and cozy cafés where you can sit and watch local life go by.
If you love scenic drives, the Chiantigiana Road (SR222) is a must. It winds through vineyards, olive groves, and hilltop towns — every turn feels like a movie scene. You’ll want to stop often just to take pictures!
Along the way, don’t miss the chance to visit a traditional wine estate, explore an ancient castle, or simply find a quiet spot to enjoy the views. Chianti is a place where every corner feels special, and every stop offers something delicious or beautiful to discover.
Day Trip Five – Volterra
This medieval gem is probably one of my top picks for day trips from Florence Italy. It is a pretty easy, enjoyable walk up to Volterra and it will be hard not to fall in love with its stone walls, winding streets and incredible views of Tuscany. The castle at Volterra is worth visiting too. I’d recommend spending a couple of hours here.
Suppose you’re visiting in Spring or Summer. In that case, it is well worth making an afternoon trip out of your visit by going into town for lunch or ice cream (they do some awesome artisanal gelato!) before wandering around taking photos and enjoying your views!
How to Get from Florence to Volterra:
By Car (Most Convenient & Scenic)
Driving is the easiest way to get to Volterra, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Head south on the S225 road, and you’ll be treated to beautiful Tuscan views along the way. Volterra is perched on a hill, so be ready for some winding roads. There’s parking available outside the city walls, but it can get crowded in high season.
By Bus (Affordable but Less Frequent)
You can catch a bus from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station to Volterra, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The buses are less frequent, so make sure to check the schedule ahead of time, especially in off-season months.
By Train + Bus (Slower & Less Convenient)
There is no direct train to Volterra. You’d need to take a train from Florence to Cecina (about 1 hour), then catch a bus from Cecina to Volterra (about 30 minutes). This option takes about 2 hours, but it’s less convenient compared to driving or the bus.
What to See and Do in Volterra
Volterra feels like stepping back in time. This beautiful hilltop town is full of winding stone streets, ancient walls, and sweeping views over the Tuscan countryside. Start your visit by walking through the historic center, where you’ll find charming shops, cozy cafés, and plenty of quiet corners to explore.
One of the top sights is the Piazza dei Priori, the main square surrounded by impressive medieval buildings. Don’t miss the Palazzo dei Priori, said to be the oldest town hall in Tuscany — you can even climb the tower for fantastic views.
Volterra is also famous for its Etruscan history. You can visit the Etruscan Museum (Museo Etrusco Guarnacci) to see ancient artifacts and learn about the town’s fascinating past. Nearby, you’ll find the remains of the Etruscan city walls and the ancient Porta all’Arco, an original stone gate that’s still standing after more than 2,000 years.
If you love Roman history, stop by the Roman Theater ruins, which date back to the 1st century BC. It’s an easy walk from the town center and a great spot for photos.
And don’t leave without checking out Volterra’s famous alabaster workshops. This local craft has been part of Volterra’s identity for centuries, and you can still see artisans at work, creating delicate sculptures and souvenirs.
Volterra is smaller and quieter than some other Tuscan towns, but that’s part of its charm — it’s a perfect place to slow down and enjoy a peaceful afternoon.
Day Trip Six – San Quirico d’Orcia
Clinging to a hillside surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, San Quirico d’Orcia makes a great day trip when visiting Florence. The surrounding area is rife with history, which can be explored via walking tours, museums and museums.
Unwind after your day trip at a charming bed-and-breakfast in town or stay at an agriturismo where you can take in views of Tuscany from atop a medieval tower. A number of restaurant options are also located within walking distance of these accommodations; some popular menu items include homemade plates of pasta and house-cured meats.
How to Get from Florence to San Quirico d’Orcia:
By Car (Fastest & Most Scenic)
Driving is the best option to reach San Quirico d’Orcia, taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes. You’ll travel through beautiful countryside along the SR2 road, with stunning views of the Tuscan hills and vineyards. There are several parking lots in and around the town, but it can get busy during peak season.
By Bus (Affordable but Less Frequent)
You can catch a bus from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station to San Quirico d’Orcia, but it’s not the most frequent route. The bus ride takes around 2 hours, and there may not be many direct options, so check the schedule in advance.
By Train + Bus (Longer & Less Convenient)
There’s no direct train to San Quirico d’Orcia. You’d need to take a train from Florence to Buonconvento (about 1 hour), then catch a bus to San Quirico d’Orcia (about 15 minutes). This option will take around 2 hours in total and is more time-consuming.
What to See and Do in San Quirico d’Orcia
San Quirico d’Orcia is one of the hidden gems of Tuscany. This peaceful little town sits right in the heart of the Val d’Orcia, surrounded by rolling hills, cypress trees, and endless views that look like they belong on a postcard. It’s a perfect stop if you’re looking for a quiet, authentic Tuscan experience.
Start your visit with a stroll through the historic center, where narrow stone streets lead you past ancient churches, small shops, and local cafés. Don’t miss the Collegiata di San Quirico, a beautiful Romanesque church with impressive stone carvings right at its entrance.
One of the highlights of San Quirico is the Horti Leonini, a peaceful Renaissance garden built in the 16th century. It’s a lovely place for a quiet walk, especially on a sunny afternoon.
You’ll also want to explore the Medieval town walls and the charming piazzas scattered throughout town. Every corner feels like a step back in time.
Because it’s less crowded than other Tuscan towns, San Quirico d’Orcia offers a slower pace. It’s the perfect place to sit at an outdoor table, sip a coffee or a glass of wine, and just enjoy the beauty around you. And if you’re driving through the Val d’Orcia, this is one of the best places to stop for a real taste of the Tuscan countryside.
Day Trip Seven – The Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre is a stretch of coastline along with Italy’s northwestern Ligurian Sea, between Elba and La Spezia. It is composed of five coastal villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. The rugged terrain and very narrow valleys mostly separate and isolate each village.
How to Get from Florence to Cinque Terre:
By Train (Quick & Easy)
The fastest way to reach Cinque Terre is by train from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station to La Spezia, which takes around 2 hours. From there, you can take the local trains that connect all five Cinque Terre villages in about 10–15 minutes each. Trains run frequently, so this is the most convenient option.
By Car (Flexible but Challenging Parking)
Driving takes about 2.5 hours. You can follow the A11 highway to La Spezia and then continue along the coastal roads to reach Cinque Terre. However, the villages are car-free, so you’ll have to park in La Spezia or nearby towns and then use the train or shuttle buses to reach the villages. Be mindful of parking fees and the narrow, winding roads.
By Bus (Longer & Less Frequent)
You can take a bus from Florence to La Spezia, but it’s slower, usually taking around 3 hours or more. From La Spezia, you can continue by train to Cinque Terre. This option is less convenient and less frequent than the train.
What to See and Do in Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is one of the most breathtaking places you can visit in Italy. This group of five colorful villages — Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore — clings to the cliffs along the Ligurian coast, offering some of the most stunning seaside views you’ll ever see.
Each village has its own charm. You can spend the day walking through narrow streets, visiting little shops, relaxing by the sea, and trying fresh seafood. Monterosso is great for beach lovers, while Vernazza and Manarola are famous for their picture-perfect harbors. Don’t miss a visit to Corniglia, the only village set higher on the hill, with beautiful views over the coastline.
One of the best things to do is hike the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), a scenic path that connects the villages. Even if you don’t hike the whole trail, short sections between the towns are easy and offer unforgettable views of the sea and cliffs.
You can move between the villages easily by train, boat, or even on foot. No cars are allowed inside the villages, which helps keep the atmosphere peaceful and charming.
Cinque Terre can get busy, especially in summer, but if you start early and take your time, it’s one of the most magical day trips you can take from Florence.
Day Trip Eight – Monteriggioni Castle
Located in Monteriggioni, Tuscany, 60 kilometres south of Florence, Monteriggioni Castle is another great day trip. The castle was built by Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta (the same guy who got a castle in Rimini), and it’s set atop a hill overlooking a valley.
While there aren’t any guided tours, you can walk along paths or streets and take a number of beautiful shots of various buildings around town. Many tourists choose to see both Monteriggioni Castle and San Gimignano on one drive down from Florence – combining two day trips into one long afternoon of fun!
How to Get from Florence to Monteriggioni:
By Car (Quick & Scenic)
Driving is the fastest and most scenic way to reach Monteriggioni, taking about 45 minutes. From Florence, take the A1 highway south and exit at Firenze-Impruneta, then follow the signs for Monteriggioni. The village is small, and parking is available just outside the medieval walls.
By Bus (Affordable but Slower)
You can catch a bus from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station to Monteriggioni. The ride takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but buses are less frequent, especially outside the high season. Be sure to check the schedule in advance.
By Train + Bus (Longer & Less Convenient)
There’s no direct train to Monteriggioni. You’ll need to take a train from Florence to Siena (about 1 hour), and then catch a bus from Siena to Monteriggioni (about 20 minutes). This option takes about 1.5 to 2 hours in total, and may require more coordination.
What to See and Do in Monteriggioni
Monteriggioni is like something straight out of a medieval storybook. This tiny, walled village sits on top of a hill just a short drive from Siena and is famous for its perfectly preserved castle walls and towers. From the moment you see it from the road, you’ll understand why it has captured the imagination of travelers for centuries.
Start by walking along the castle walls — parts of them are open to visitors, and the views over the surrounding Tuscan countryside are absolutely beautiful. Inside the walls, you’ll find a small but charming village with stone streets, a peaceful main square, and a few little shops and cafés where you can stop for a drink or a bite to eat.
Don’t miss the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a simple but beautiful Romanesque church right in the heart of the village. You can also visit the Monteriggioni in Arme Museum, which gives you a glimpse into medieval life with displays of armor and weapons.
Monteriggioni is small and easy to explore in just a couple of hours, making it a perfect quick stop on your way to or from Siena, or part of a day spent exploring the Tuscan countryside.
Day Trip Nine – Pistoia
Pistoia is a charming, lesser-known gem nestled in the heart of Tuscany, just a short distance from Florence. With its rich history, medieval architecture, and peaceful atmosphere, it offers a perfect escape from the crowds of the more famous cities. Pistoia is filled with beautiful piazzas, ancient churches, and cobbled streets, making it feel like stepping back in time. The stunning Cattedrale di San Zeno, with its intricate carvings and silver altar, is a highlight, as is the Piazza del Duomo, where you can admire the city’s impressive architecture. The town also boasts vibrant local markets, quaint cafes, and a laid-back vibe that lets you savor Tuscany at a slower pace. Whether you’re wandering its quiet lanes or discovering its rich art and culture, Pistoia captures the essence of authentic Tuscany.
How to get from Florence to Pistoia:
By Train (Quick & Easy)
The most convenient way to reach Pistoia is by train. From Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station, trains run frequently to Pistoia and take around 30–40 minutes. It’s a direct route, and tickets are affordable. Trains are the easiest and fastest option.
By Car (Flexible & Scenic)
If you prefer driving, it will take you about 40 minutes. Take the A11 highway from Florence, heading towards Pistoia. The drive offers beautiful views of the Tuscan countryside. However, parking in the city center can be challenging, so it’s best to park on the outskirts and walk in.
By Bus (Affordable but Slower)
Buses from Florence to Pistoia are also available, but this is the slowest option, taking around 1 hour or more. The bus departs from Florence’s Bus Station near Santa Maria Novella. It’s cheaper than the train but less frequent.
What to See and Do in Pistoia
Start your visit at Piazza del Duomo, one of the prettiest main squares in Italy. Here you’ll find the stunning Pistoia Cathedral (San Zeno Cathedral) with its beautiful silver altar, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, and the impressive Palazzo del Comune. The square feels peaceful and authentic, perfect for sitting with a coffee and soaking in the local life.
If you love history, don’t miss the chance to visit the Ospedale del Ceppo, a medieval hospital famous for its colorful glazed terracotta frieze that tells stories of caring for the sick. You can even take a tour underground to explore the hidden parts of the old hospital!
Pistoia is also known for its beautiful churches, narrow streets, and great local food. It’s a wonderful place to spend a slow, relaxing day — especially if you want to see a side of Tuscany that’s a little less touristy but just as beautiful.
Day Trip Ten – Arezzo
Arezzo is a hidden gem in Tuscany, a city that effortlessly blends history, art, and charm. Known for its stunning medieval architecture, Arezzo is filled with beautiful squares, ancient churches, and winding streets that lead you through time. The Piazza Grande, with its sloping floor and surrounding palaces, is one of Italy’s most picturesque squares, and the Arezzo Cathedral offers a peaceful place of reflection. The city is also home to masterpieces by Piero della Francesca, including his famous frescoes in the San Francesco Church. Arezzo’s rich history is on full display at the Museo Archeologico, and the lively Antique Fair held here every month attracts treasure hunters from across the world. With its mix of medieval charm, Renaissance art, and a welcoming atmosphere, Arezzo offers an authentic taste of Tuscany away from the usual tourist crowds.
How to get from Florence to Arezzo:
By Train (Quick & Easy)
The fastest and most convenient way to reach Arezzo is by train. From Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station, direct trains run to Arezzo and take about 1 hour. It’s a comfortable and scenic ride through the Tuscan countryside. Tickets are affordable and trains are frequent.
By Car (Flexible & Scenic)
If you prefer driving, it will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Take the A1 highway south from Florence towards Rome and exit at Arezzo. The drive is smooth and offers lovely views of the Tuscan landscape, but parking in the city center can be tricky, so it’s better to park outside and walk in.
By Bus (Affordable but Slower)
Buses from Florence to Arezzo are available, but it’s a slower option, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours. Buses depart from Florence’s Bus Station near Santa Maria Novella.
What to See and Do in Arezzo
Start your visit at the Piazza Grande, one of the most unique and beautiful squares in Italy. Surrounded by medieval towers and Renaissance buildings, it’s the perfect spot to sit at a café and watch the world go by. If you visit during the first weekend of the month, you’ll catch the famous Arezzo Antique Fair, one of the biggest antique markets in the country.
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Basilica of San Francesco, home to Piero della Francesca’s famous fresco cycle, The Legend of the True Cross. It’s one of the masterpieces of Italian Renaissance art.
Take time to wander the old town’s streets, where you’ll find charming shops, peaceful churches, and hidden corners that seem frozen in time. Arezzo also has a strong tradition of goldsmithing, so if you’re looking for a special souvenir, you’ll find plenty of beautiful handmade jewelry here.
Whether you’re into art, shopping, or just exploring somewhere a little less touristy, Arezzo makes for a perfect, easy day trip from Florence.