Summary of Day Trips from Florence
Florence is the nucleus of Italy, boasting some of the most renowned museums and galleries globally. Visitors may find themselves wandering from the Uffizi to the Ospedale degli Innocenti, from the Galleria dell’Accademia to the Bargello Museum, and still have only minimally explored the city’s rich artistic and scientific heritage. Once the principal attractions have been visited, it’s beneficial to broaden one’s experience and explore more distant locales. Situated at the heart of Italy, Florence serves as an excellent base for additional exploration throughout the country.
Below are some of the best day trips from Florence:
1. Chianti
Chianti is one of the most distinctive wine-producing regions globally. Renowned for its characteristic squat wine bottles encased in straw baskets, known as fiasco, this remarkable wine region is a treasure for any aspiring sommelier. Visitors may explore Chianti by car, or for a more invigorating experience, by bicycle. The smooth, winding roads are perfect for cycling, and combining the ride with wine tastings and olive oil samplings creates a delightful experience. Chianti also boasts some of Italy’s finest restaurants, many serving traditional Tuscan dishes reimagined with contemporary flair.
2. San Gimignano and Siena
A morning visit to San Gimignano, followed by an afternoon in Siena, provides an ideal exploration of Tuscany. San Gimignano, nestled in the rolling hills of Upper Val D’Elsa, is known for the famous Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine, while also producing saffron and exquisite Santa Fina pottery. In Siena, visitors can immerse themselves in rich architectural heritage by visiting the Cathedral of Siena and the Palazzo Comunale, located in the Piazza del Campo, which also hosts the thrilling Palio horse race during the summer.
3. Cortona
Cortona represents one of Tuscany’s quintessential hilltop towns, radiating charm with its historic stone walls and winding streets. Its elevated position provides stunning views over the expansive valley below, showcasing the captivating Lake Trasimeno. Cortona has gained fame from Frances Mayes’ book ‘Under the Tuscan Sun,’ and its actual beauty is equally mesmerizing as seen in the adaptations. Taking a day trip to Cortona provides a unique opportunity to experience the authentic Tuscan lifestyle and embrace the leisurely pace of life prevalent in the region.
4. Montepulciano
Montepulciano epitomizes the stunning beauty of Tuscany, characterized as a medieval town perched high on a hill. The town is replete with Renaissance palaces, winding cobblestone streets, and numerous well-preserved churches. Its elegance combined with rustic charm makes a visit to Montepulciano essential. Enthusiasts of wine should not miss the opportunity to visit the Contucci winery, while outdoor lovers might enjoy strolls through the Natural Reserve Lucciolabella. The area is bordered by vineyards stretching to the horizon, creating a picturesque setting that travelers often envision before arriving in Italy. For those pressed for time, it is feasible to combine a half-day visit to Montepulciano with a brief exploration of Cortona.
5. Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre comprises a group of ancient coastal villages located on the Italian Riviera. The five distinct towns—Corniglia, Manarola, Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore, and Vernazza—each offer their unique charm. Perched precariously on cliff edges, these towns descend steeply to the Ligurian coast, presenting a fairytale-like ambiance. Renowned as the birthplace of pesto, this area is a culinary destination where sampling its famous sauce is a must before departing.
6. Portovenere
Famed for its coastal caves and exceptional diving sites, Portovenere is a popular destination on the Ligurian Sea. The prominent landmark of the region is the Church of St. Peter, situated on a rugged headland. Strolling around the renovated church provides breathtaking views of the tumultuous sea. A hike through the Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere allows visitors to admire stunning views of the coastline. For those wishing for an action-packed itinerary, Portovenere can be paired with a visit to Cinque Terre.
7. Montalcino
The medieval village of Montalcino is one of Tuscany’s hidden treasures, celebrated for its wine production, particularly the Brunello di Montalcino. The Abbey of Sant’Antimo is a beautifully preserved structure, featuring a charming bookstore that offers tranquility during the day trip from Florence. Numerous wineries and vineyards, each with unique characteristics and production methods, provide ample exploration opportunities. A driver may be a convenient option for those wishing to discover multiple wineries throughout the day. Additionally, a visit to Chiesa della Madonna del Soccorso adds a non-alcoholic complement to the trip.
8. Pienza
Pienza, known as the Renaissance heart of the Montalcino region, offers stunning vistas over Val d’Orcia from various viewpoints. The primary attractions include San Biagio, Piazza Pio II, and the Pienza Cathedral. This culturally rich town also houses the Piccolomini Palace, which was once the summer residence of Pope Pius II, featuring a lovely roof garden and breathtaking views of the valley below. Pienza is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ensuring its preservation and making a visit feel like a journey back in time.
9. Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks in Italy, if not all of Europe. The initial attraction in Pisa is to observe the remarkable leaning tower; however, once a photograph is captured, numerous cultural treasures await exploration. The Leaning Tower is located within the Piazza dei Miracoli, which merits further investigation. The impressive Cathedral of Pisa, with its radiant white marble façade and notable bronze doors, should not be missed. Additionally, Knight’s Square, often bypassed for more time at Piazza dei Miracoli, is truly worth the visit.
10. Lucca
Lucca is a Tuscan city brimming with architectural and historical wonders that provide intriguing insights into Italy’s past. The Guinigi Tower is one of Italy’s most unique structures, featuring holm-oak trees that grace its summit. Though the tower’s man-made features might not seem extraordinary, the enduring presence of the trees demands acknowledgment. In the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a local market thrives, accompanied by numerous typical Tuscan cafes offering regional wines and traditional dishes.
11. Greve
Located in the Chianti region, Greve is a less frequented day trip destination from Florence. Blending history, culture, and exceptional wine, Greve serves as a hidden gem. Notable wine tasting venues include Fattoria Montecchio and Ca’ di Pesa. The town boasts numerous artisan shops for an enjoyable afternoon of exploration, with the central square surrounded by inviting cafes and coffee shops. For those seeking a calm day filled with cultural experiences, Greve is an excellent option.
12. Val d’Orcia
As mentioned previously, the breathtaking views of Val d’Orcia are captivating. This valley deserves a dedicated day trip, easily accessible from Florence city center. A locale recognized for its wine and cheese production, the journey to Val d’Orcia is a feast for the senses. The notable Pecorino Romano cheese, using sheep’s milk, can be sampled in this pristine area. Throughout the day, conversations with local producers about their cheese-making processes offer a unique cultural experience.
13. Venice
Regarded as one of the most romantic cities globally, Venice is easily accessible for a day trip from Florence. With over 100 islands interconnected by a network of canals, Venice provides an unparalleled urban experience. While the Grand Canal may become busy during peak hours, this vibrant atmosphere contributes to the city’s allure. Key attractions include the majestic Piazza San Marco and the stunning Saint Mark’s Basilica, alongside the iconic Doge’s Palace, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Given Venice’s reputation for being one of Italy’s priciest cities, a day trip may be the optimal choice for budget-conscious travelers.
14. Volterra
Volterra is a quintessential Tuscan town that offers a more secluded visit. This walled mountaintop town is home to approximately 11,000 inhabitants. Volterra is steeped in mystique and rich folklore, captivating fans of the ‘Twilight’ saga. Engaging with locals about the vampire legends that originated from this town can be particularly fascinating. The town also features the Alabaster Museum, showcasing the prized stone that has historically defined Volterra. Numerous delightful restaurants serve traditional Tuscan cheese, providing a distinctive dining experience not to be overlooked.
15. Rome
The capital of Italy, Rome, is only three hours from Florence, making it an exceptional day trip opportunity for early risers. The city showcases some of the world’s most impressive architecture, with visitors flocking from around the globe to admire the grandeur of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the iconic Trevi Fountain. Despite the bustling urban atmosphere, it is feasible to visit leading attractions within a single day without feeling hurried. St. Peter’s Basilica is particularly noteworthy for those of the Christian faith and for aficionados of fine art and architecture. Rome is a city that has inspired innumerable artists and musicians, rendering it an essential destination at least once in a lifetime.
