Exploring Tuscany and Beyond

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a treasure trove of art and culture. But the surrounding regions of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna offer equally enchanting experiences just a short journey away. Before we explore these day trips, make sure to check out our comprehensive guide to Florence to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

Here are six fantastic day trips from Florence that will enrich your Italian adventure.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa and Cathedral with tourists and vibrant sky. — The Leaning Tower of Pisa began tilting during its construction in the 12th century due to soft, unstable ground, and today it leans at an angle of about **4 degrees**, stabilized through modern engineering efforts.

1. Pisa: More Than Just the Leaning Tower

Just an hour’s train ride from Florence, Pisa is home to the iconic Leaning Tower, but offers much more. Visit the entire Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage site, including the Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery. Stroll along the Arno river and explore the charming streets of the historic center. Check out our full guide here ↗

Travel Time: 1 hour by train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station
Don’t Miss: Climbing the Leaning Tower (book in advance!)

Image from within a portico (arched, covered walkway) in Bologna — Bologna’s porticos, spanning over 62 kilometers, are the longest system of covered walkways in the world, and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site

2. Bologna: A Gastronomic Paradise

Known as “La Grassa” (The Fat One) for its rich culinary traditions, Bologna is a food lover’s dream. Explore the medieval city center with its stunning porticoes, climb the Torre degli Asinelli for panoramic views, and indulge in authentic tagliatelle al ragù and mortadella. Check out our full guide here ↗

Travel Time: 35 minutes by high-speed train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station
Don’t Miss: Food tour in the Quadrilatero market area

A view of the Basilica of San Domenico in Siena, Italy, with its towering Gothic-style brick facade surrounded by lush greenery and narrow streets lined with traditional buildings in warm earthy tones, under a partly cloudy blue sky. — The Basilica of San Domenico in Siena houses the **relic of Saint Catherine of Siena’s head**, making it an important pilgrimage site for those honoring the city’s patron saint and one of the most influential figures in Catholic history.

3. Siena: Medieval Splendor

Step back in time in this beautifully preserved medieval city. Explore the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, climb the Torre del Mangia for breathtaking views, and marvel at the intricate marble floors of the Siena Cathedral. If you’re visiting in July or August, you might catch the excitement of the Palio, Siena’s famous horse race.

Travel Time: 1.5 hours by bus or train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station
Don’t Miss: The Civic Museum in the Palazzo Pubblico

Captivating aerial view of San Gimignano's historic towers lit up at night, Italy. — San Gimignano, the “Town of Fine Towers,” once boasted 72 medieval towers, of which **13 still stand**, dominating the skyline.

4. San Gimignano: Tuscany’s Medieval Manhattan

This small walled town is famous for its medieval tower houses, giving it a unique skyline that earned it the nickname “Medieval Manhattan”. Wander the narrow streets, visit the Collegiate Church, and taste the world-renowned Vernaccia di San Gimignano white wine.

Travel Time: 1 hour by bus (with a change in Poggibonsi) from Firenze Autostazione
Don’t Miss: Gelateria Dondoli, winner of multiple world gelato championships

Charming aerial view of Lucca's historic buildings and clock towers in Tuscany. — Lucca, often called the “City of a Hundred Churches,” is famed for its perfectly preserved Renaissance-era walls, which you can walk or cycle atop for stunning views of the city.

5. Lucca: Bikes and Basilicas

Encircled by Renaissance-era walls, Lucca is a charming town best explored by bicycle. Ride along the tree-lined walls, visit the oval-shaped Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, and climb the unique Guinigi Tower with oak trees growing on its top.

Travel Time: 1.5 hours by train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station
Don’t Miss: Renting a bike to tour the city walls

A panoramic view of Volterra, Italy, showcasing its historic hilltop setting with terracotta-roofed buildings, medieval walls, and rolling green hills stretching into the distance under a clear blue sky. — The vineyards surrounding Volterra produce excellent wines influenced by Chianti traditions, with Volterra’s unique terroir adding distinct mineral notes from its alabaster-rich soil.

6. Chianti Region: Wine Tasting in the Tuscan Countryside

No visit to Tuscany is complete without a wine tour in the famous Chianti region. Visit picturesque hilltop towns like Greve in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti, tour historic wineries, and sample world-class Chianti Classico wines paired with local specialties.

Travel Time: 1 hour by car or organized tour from Florence
Don’t Miss: A visit to a traditional Tuscan farmhouse (agriturismo)

Essential Tips for Day Trips from Florence

Book high-speed train tickets in advance for better prices, especially for popular routes like Florence-Bologna.
Consider a Trenitalia Pass if you’re planning multiple train journeys.
For destinations not easily accessible by public transport, look into organized day tours from Florence.
Start your day trips early to maximize your time, especially for more distant destinations.
Bring a refillable water bottle; many Italian towns have public fountains with drinkable water.
Check the opening hours of main attractions in advance, as they may vary seasonally or close on certain days of the week.

These day trips offer a perfect blend of art, history, cuisine, and scenic beauty, allowing you to experience the best of central Italy while based in beautiful Florence. Whether you’re drawn to leaning towers, medieval streets, or rolling vineyards, these excursions will enrich your Italian journey and create lasting memories.