Day Trips from Florence

Florence is a city rich in history and culture, but if you have more time, why not take advantage of it to explore its beautiful surroundings? Tuscany and the nearby regions offer endless opportunities for day trips, allowing you to discover medieval villages, breathtaking landscapes, and savor delicious local cuisine. In this guide, you'll find the best day trips from Florence, along with helpful tips to make the most of your experience.

Day Trip to Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano with Lunch and Wine Tasting

One of the most popular day trips from Florence is the tour that combines Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano in a single day. This itinerary is perfect for those who want to explore some of Tuscany’s most iconic destinations without the hassle of planning every detail.

What to Expect from This Trip

• Guided Tour of Siena: An expert guide will lead you through the charming streets of Siena, including a stop at Piazza del Campo, home to the famous Palio di Siena. You’ll also have the chance to visit the magnificent Siena Cathedral, a stunning example of Italian Gothic architecture.

• Traditional Tuscan Lunch and Wine Tasting: After visiting Siena, head to a traditional winery near San Gimignano to enjoy a Tuscan meal paired with high-quality local wines.

• Explore San Gimignano: Known as the “Medieval Manhattan” for its towers, San Gimignano will charm you with its picturesque streets and artisan shops.

• Discover Pisa and the Leaning Tower: The day concludes with a visit to Pisa, where you can see the famous Piazza dei Miracoli and, of course, snap a classic photo with the Leaning Tower.

Chianti Region Tour and Wine Tasting

The Chianti countryside is world-famous for its wines and postcard-perfect landscapes. A guided tour of the region allows you to taste fine wines, olive oil, and other local specialties directly in the cellars where they are produced.

Experiences Included in the Tour

• Guided Winery Tour: Learn the secrets of Tuscan winemaking by visiting ancient cellars and discovering traditional production methods.

• Wine and Local Products Tasting: In addition to sipping excellent wines, you'll have the chance to taste local products such as pecorino cheese, prosciutto, and bruschetta with extra virgin olive oil.

• Breathtaking Scenery: The tour takes you through rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, offering plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.

Vespa Ride Through the Tuscan Hills

For those seeking an authentic and adventurous experience, a Vespa tour is the perfect choice. Riding an original Vespa along Tuscany's scenic roads offers a unique way to explore the countryside, taking in picturesque landscapes and breathing in the fresh air among vineyards and olive groves.

What the Vespa Tour Includes

• Orientation Session: Before you set off, you'll receive training on how to ride a Vespa from an expert instructor. You'll also have the chance to take a practice ride to ensure you're comfortable on the scooter.

• Scenic Route: The tour follows quiet and picturesque roads, with photo stops along the way. You'll pass through quaint villages, ancient churches, and stunning landscapes that make Tuscany so special.

• Tuscan Tasting and Lunch: The tour concludes with a visit to two boutique wineries, where you can enjoy a traditional Tuscan meal paired with wine and local olive oil tastings.

Other Recommended Day Trips

If you've already visited Pisa, Siena, and Chianti, here are more ideas for day trips departing from Florence.

Lucca and Garfagnana

Lucca is a charming city known for its impressive Renaissance walls, which you can walk or cycle along. Stroll through the historic center and visit Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, one of the most unique squares in Italy. Continuing towards Garfagnana, you'll discover a green, unspoiled valley, perfect for nature lovers and hikers.

Cinque Terre

A day trip to the Cinque Terre offers the chance to explore five colorful villages perched on the cliffs above the sea. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these towns feature scenic trails, beautiful beaches, and a seafood cuisine worth savoring. You can explore the villages by train, boat, or on foot along the famous coastal paths.

Val d'Orcia

The Val d'Orcia with its rolling hills, cypress trees, and ancient villages is the quintessential image of Tuscany. During a visit to this area, don't miss Montepulciano and Pienza, where you can taste fine wines and the famous local pecorino cheese.

Bologna

Just an hour by train from Florence, Bologna is perfect for a day trip. Explore the historic center with its medieval towers, stroll under the endless arcades, and indulge in Bologna’s extraordinary cuisine. A visit to the historic University of Bologna, the oldest in the Western world, is highly recommended.

Arezzo and Cortona

These two towns offer an authentic and less touristy experience. Arezzo is known for its historic center and the Antique Fair, while Cortona, made famous by the movie 'Under the Tuscan Sun,' will charm you with its romantic atmosphere and breathtaking views over the Val di Chiana.

With so many options available, all that’s left to do is choose the trip that inspires you the most and get ready for an unforgettable day away from Florence’s bustling city life!