Florence may be one of Europe’s most captivating cities, but limiting your trip to its Renaissance streets means missing out on some of the most remarkable places in Tuscany and beyond. Just an hour or two from the Tuscan capital, you’ll find medieval towns, vineyard-covered hillsides, coastal escapes, and ancient architectural wonders that offer a refreshing contrast to Florence’s artistic intensity. These day trips allow you to see a different side of Italy without needing to change hotels or rework your entire itinerary.
What makes these destinations especially appealing is how accessible they are. From efficient regional trains to scenic bus routes and easy guided tours, you can step onto public transport in Florence and arrive somewhere completely different in atmosphere and history in under half a day. This makes day trips ideal for travelers who want fresh scenery without the stress of planning a full multi-stop trip through Italy.
Whether you’re drawn to wine country, medieval architecture, seaside towns, or small-village charm, the surrounding region offers experiences that feel both quintessentially Italian and uniquely memorable. These getaways round out your Florence visit, offering cultural depth, culinary variety, and the chance to slow down in places where life moves at a gentler pace.
Read here Tourist Traps to Avoid in Florence and how to get from Florence Airport to city center
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Quick & Easy Tips
Book train tickets in advance for popular routes like Pisa and Siena to avoid long queues.
Leave early in the morning to enjoy destinations before crowds and heat peak.
Pack water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes, especially for hilltop towns.
Check return train schedules before leaving so you’re not stranded late in the evening.
If you prefer a guided experience, choose small-group tours rather than large bus excursions.
One of the most debated questions among repeat Italy travelers is whether Florence is worth using as a base at all. Some argue that the city becomes overwhelming during peak travel months and that visitors should stay in smaller towns for a more authentic feel. Supporters of Florence counter that the city’s transportation connections make it too convenient to give up, especially if you want access to multiple regions in limited time. The truth lies somewhere in the middle: Florence can be both crowded and practical, and day trips allow you to strike a balance between convenience and atmosphere.
Another point of contention surrounds which Tuscan towns are truly “worth it.” Some seasoned travelers insist that the big-name destinations are overrated and encourage visitors to seek out lesser-known villages. Yet iconic places like Pisa, Siena, or Cinque Terre remain popular for a reason. They offer historic charm, distinct regional identities, and memorable scenery that first-time visitors often appreciate more than the hidden gems. The debate persists because both perspectives hold value depending on your travel style.
There’s also differing opinion on whether to rent a car for Tuscany. Some travelers swear by the freedom of driving through the countryside, while others find Italy’s narrow roads and parking restrictions intimidating. Public transportation is reliable for the major destinations, but more rural areas can be difficult to reach without a car. Understanding these nuances helps travelers plan day trips that align with their comfort level rather than following generalized advice.
Day Trips from Florence
1. Pisa
Distance: 85 km
Driving Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Train: 1 hour from Florence Santa Maria Novella Station
What to Do:
Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa (reserve tickets in advance to climb)
Explore the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the Cathedral and Baptistery
Walk along the Arno River and visit the Palazzo della Carovana
Try authentic Cecina (chickpea flatbread), a local specialty
Tips:
If taking the train, Pisa Centrale Station is about 20 minutes on foot from the Leaning Tower
Arrive early or late in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds
Mistakes to Avoid:
Skipping the surrounding town—there’s more to Pisa than just the Leaning Tower
Forgetting to pre-book tickets if you plan to climb the tower
2. Siena
Distance: 75 km
Driving Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Bus: 1 hour 30 minutes from Florence’s bus station
What to Do:
Visit the Piazza del Campo, one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Italy
Tour the Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) and its intricate marble interiors
Climb the Torre del Mangia for stunning views over the Tuscan countryside
Explore Santa Maria della Scala, a historic hospital-turned-museum
Tips:
The bus is better than the train since Siena’s train station is outside the city center
Wear comfortable shoes—Siena has many steep hills and cobblestone streets
Mistakes to Avoid:
Only visiting the Piazza del Campo—walk around to see the less-touristy local areas
Driving into the city center—Siena has strict traffic rules (ZTL zones)
3. San Gimignano
Distance: 60 km
Driving Time: ~1 hour
Bus: 1 hour 30 minutes (with a transfer in Poggibonsi)
What to Do:
Wander through the medieval town and admire its 14 preserved towers
Visit the Collegiata di San Gimignano, a Romanesque church with beautiful frescoes
Enjoy gelato at Gelateria Dondoli, a world-famous gelato shop
Take in panoramic views from Torre Grossa, the tallest tower
Tips:
Best visited by car, as public transport options are limited
Arrive early in the morning to avoid bus tours from Florence
Mistakes to Avoid:
Not trying the local Vernaccia white wine, unique to San Gimignano
Overlooking the less crowded side streets—most tourists stay near the main square
4. Lucca
Distance: 75 km
Driving Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
Train: 1 hour 20 minutes from Florence
What to Do:
Walk or bike along the Renaissance city walls
Visit the Lucca Cathedral (San Martino) for its stunning artwork
Explore Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a square built on the remains of a Roman amphitheater
Climb Torre Guinigi, a tower with oak trees growing on top
Tips:
Lucca is flat, making it a great place to rent a bike
Combine Lucca with Pisa in one day if you have time
Mistakes to Avoid:
Rushing through town—Lucca is best enjoyed at a slow, relaxed pace
Skipping the local food, including Tordelli Lucchese (meat-filled pasta)
5. Chianti Wine Region
Distance: 30–50 km (depending on the winery)
Driving Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
No direct public transport—best by car or tour
What to Do:
Visit wineries and taste Chianti Classico wine
Explore Greve in Chianti, the heart of the region
Enjoy a Tuscan lunch at a vineyard with local cheeses and meats
Walk through Castellina in Chianti, a medieval hilltop village
Tips:
Book wine tastings in advance, especially in peak season
Hiring a private driver or joining a wine tour is recommended if you plan to drink
Mistakes to Avoid:
Expecting to visit multiple wineries without a plan—Chianti is spread out
Forgetting that many wineries close for a long lunch break (1-3 PM)
6. Arezzo
Distance: 80 km
Driving Time: ~1 hour
Train: 1 hour from Florence
What to Do:
Visit the Piazza Grande, one of the most scenic squares in Tuscany
See the Basilica of San Francesco, home to Piero della Francesca’s frescoes
Explore the Medici Fortress for panoramic views of the town
Browse the famous Arezzo Antique Market (held the first Sunday of each month)
Tips:
Less crowded than Siena and San Gimignano, making it a peaceful day trip
Great for those who love art and history
Mistakes to Avoid:
Skipping the Piero della Francesca frescoes, one of the highlights of Italian Renaissance art
Not exploring beyond Piazza Grande—Arezzo has a rich medieval history
7. Cinque Terre (Longer Day Trip Option)
Distance: ~190 km
Driving Time: ~2 hours 30 minutes
Train: 2 hours 30 minutes (change in Pisa and La Spezia)
Visit the five colorful coastal villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore
Hike the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) between villages
Swim at the beaches in Monterosso al Mare
Take a boat tour along the Ligurian coast
Tips:
Best done by train—driving and parking are difficult
If short on time, visit just two or three villages rather than all five
Mistakes to Avoid:
Trying to visit all five villages in one day—focus on a few for a better experience
Forgetting to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be steep
Final Thoughts: Which Day Trip Should You Choose?
Best for history lovers: Siena, San Gimignano, Arezzo
Best for wine lovers: Chianti Wine Region
Best for coastal views: Cinque Terre
Best for relaxed atmosphere: Lucca
Best for iconic landmarks: Pisa
Florence is captivating on its own, but the region around it enriches your understanding of Tuscany’s diversity. Adding day trips to your itinerary transforms your visit into a multidimensional experience, blending art, nature, food, and architecture in a way no single city can offer. These short excursions help you appreciate why millions of travelers fall in love with Tuscany beyond the museums and piazzas.
Visiting nearby towns also provides a chance to slow down and connect with Italian culture at a more intimate pace. Whether it’s drinking wine in Chianti, walking among Siena’s medieval streets, or admiring coastal views from Cinque Terre, each destination offers its own rhythm and sense of place. These contrasts enhance your appreciation for Florence while adding unforgettable chapters to your journey.
Ultimately, the beauty of day trips from Florence is their simplicity. You don’t need elaborate planning or logistical stress. With a bit of curiosity and an open schedule, you can step out of the city and into some of the most extraordinary landscapes and towns in Italy. These destinations prove that the magic of Florence extends far beyond its borders.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.