10 Best Day Trips From Florence | Everything You Need to Know

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Italy. However, if you’re spending more than a couple of days in the city, you may want to explore some of the surrounding areas. Luckily, Florence is surrounded by stunning countryside, charming towns, and picturesque villages, making it an ideal base for day trips. Here are some of the best day trips from Florence that you shouldn’t miss.

Pisa

Just an hour away from Florence, the charming city of Pisa is best known for its leaning tower. However, there is more to Pisa than just the tower. The city boasts beautiful medieval architecture, charming streets, and lovely riverside promenades. Visit the Piazza dei Miracoli, the historic center of Pisa, where you can see the leaning tower, the Baptistery, and the Cathedral. Climb the tower if you dare, or simply enjoy a stroll along the River Arno.

Siena

Located in the heart of Tuscany, Siena is a charming city known for its medieval architecture and its famous Palio horse race. The historic center of Siena is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with narrow streets, ancient buildings, and beautiful piazzas. Don’t miss the Piazza del Campo, the central square of Siena, and the impressive Siena Cathedral. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the many trattorias, and soak up the atmosphere of this charming Tuscan city.

San Gimignano

San Gimignano is a small walled medieval town located in the heart of Tuscany. It is famous for its 14 medieval towers, which once served as lookout points for the town’s wealthy families. The town is also known for its Vernaccia wine, which you can taste at one of the many wineries in the area. Wander the narrow streets of San Gimignano, visit the Civic Museum, and climb one of the towers for a breathtaking view of the Tuscan countryside.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning coastal region located on the Ligurian coast of Italy. The region is made up of five colorful fishing villages, each with its own unique charm. The villages are connected by hiking trails, and you can also take a train or a boat to explore the region. Don’t miss the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea from the cliffs, and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the many restaurants in the area and enjoy the Cinque Terre Day trip.

Lucca

Lucca is a charming walled city located in the heart of Tuscany. The city is known for its medieval architecture, narrow streets, and beautiful piazzas. Walk along the top of the city walls, which offer a stunning view of the city and the surrounding countryside. Visit the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a beautiful oval-shaped square, and the Cathedral of San Martino. Don’t forget to sample the local Tuscan cuisine, and enjoy a glass of wine at one of the many outdoor cafes.

Montepulciano

Montepulciano is a charming hilltop town located in the heart of Tuscany. The town is known for its Renaissance architecture, beautiful churches, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visit the Piazza Grande, the central square of Montepulciano, and the Church of San Biagio, a beautiful Renaissance church. Sample the local Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wine, and enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the town’s many trattorias.

Chianti

The Chianti region is famous for its stunning countryside, rolling hills, and vineyards. If you’re a wine lover, then a day trip to Chianti is a must. The region is located between Florence and Siena and is home to some of the most famous wineries in Tuscany. Take a scenic drive through the countryside, stopping at wineries to sample Chianti Classico wine and enjoy stunning views of the vineyards.

Val d’Orcia

Val d’Orcia is a stunning region located in southern Tuscany, known for its rolling hills, picturesque villages, and thermal baths. The region is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in Tuscany. Visit the charming hilltop town of Pienza, known for its pecorino cheese and stunning Renaissance architecture. Relax in the thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni or Bagni San Filippo, and enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the many restaurants in the area.

Cortona

Cortona is a charming hilltop town located in the eastern part of Tuscany, known for its Etruscan ruins, medieval architecture, and stunning views of the Val di Chiana. Visit the Piazza della Repubblica, the central square of Cortona, and the impressive Palazzo Comunale. Walk along the medieval walls of the town, and visit the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie al Calcinaio, a beautiful Renaissance church.

Arezzo

Arezzo is a beautiful city located in eastern Tuscany, known for its historic center, beautiful churches, and museums. Visit the Piazza Grande, the central square of Arezzo, and the beautiful Basilica of San Francesco. Explore the medieval streets of the city, and visit the Archaeological Museum and the Museo Nazionale d’Arte Medievale e Moderna. If you’re a fan of antiques, don’t miss the famous antiques market held in Arezzo every first Sunday of the month.

In conclusion, Florence is not only a beautiful city to explore but also a perfect base for day trips. Whether you’re interested in history, art, architecture, or just want to relax in the stunning countryside, there is something for everyone. Don’t forget to add the Cinque Terre day trip to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.