Florence, the treasure of Tuscany, is a treasure trove in itself. Art, culture, and history can be found in every corner of this city. But there is an entirely different world of beautiful places lying beyond the city limits that should not be missed. Browse through these seven best-day trips from Florence that include medieval towns and lush vineyards.
1. Siena
Distance from Florence: approximately 75 km (47 miles)
Getting There: This place is around 1.5 to 2 hours by train and the same by bus.
Tucked into rolling hills, Siena intermingles well-preserved medieval architecture and rich heritage. The main hub of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the greatest medieval squares in Europe. In its heart stands the amazing Palazzo Pubblico and the tower of the Torre del Mangia. Not to be forgotten is one of the most impressive creations of Italian Gothic architecture, the Siena Cathedral, with fronts executed in different-colored marbles and frescoes done in great taste.
2. San Gimignano
Distance from Florence: About 55 kilometers (34 miles)
How to Get There: By bus or train to Poggibonsi, then a short bus ride or taxi to San Gimignano.
San Gimignano, with its iconic towers symbolizing wealth and power, whisks one away in time. Stroll its labyrinth of cobblestone streets, lined with medieval houses and Artisan shops, and explore the web of narrow alleys. The 14 remaining towers boast panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Try some famous saffron dishes or a glass of Vernaccia wine, made from grapes from the surrounding hills.
3. Pisa
Distance from Florence: About 68 km; 42 miles
How to Get There: Train from the Firenze Santa Maria Novella. End → Firenze Rifredi. Duration: approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes.
One of the city's most famous attractions is the Leaning Tower of Pisa, which attracts tourists from all around the world. Bars, cafes, restaurants, and other establishments can be found in Pisa, making it the best place to spend a lovely evening with your family or loved ones. This stretches from the stunning captured views of the Leaning Tower to other places like the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Baptistery, and Campo Santo.
4. Lucca
Distance from Florence: About 63 km (39 miles)
How to get there: You can take either a train or bus, both taking approximately 1.5 hours.
Lucca is surrounded by perfectly preserved Renaissance walls, where the tree-lined ramparts provide panoramic views of the city and countryside. The narrow streets are graced by harmonious and gracious palaces, churches, and cute piazzas. Do not miss the Cathedral of Lucca, with its tangle of decorations on its facade, while the Guinigi Tower bears a tuft of oaks on top. Take your time to rent a bike and enjoy pedaling through the panoramic countryside with vineyards and olive groves that lavishly dot it.
5. Cinque Terre
Distance from Florence: About 169 kilometers (105 miles)
How to Get There: Take the train, with one stop at Pisa, for about 3 hours.
Situated on the east end of the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre is a panoramic coast where mountains meet the water. It is one of the best day trips from Florence to enjoy with family, and you will be in love with its carefree atmosphere. You can hop on a boat to see the villages in Cinque Terre, like Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, or more, where you can see beautiful houses between the ocean and the mountains.
6. Chianti Wine Region
Distance from Florence: Many estates within 20-40 km (12-25 miles)
Getting There: By car or organized tour, which enables flexible visits to different wineries.
No visit to Tuscany would be complete without a drive through the Chianti Classico wine region, driving past charming vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages. Enter some of the finest wineries and agriturismos to taste the world's best wines, Chianti Classico, combined with local delicacies. Soak in the beautiful countryside while discovering, through generations, the secrets of winemaking. Read more about ‘The Best Days to Book a Flight and When to Fly’.
7. Assisi
Distance from Florence: About 135 kilometers [84 miles]
How to Get There: Train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella; about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Located in the middle of the Umbria region of Italy lies the city of Assisi, which is very famous for being the original home of St. Francis, one of the patron saints of Italy. This is indeed one of the best day trips from Florence, where you'll have the opportunity to see historically important structures such as the Basilica di San Francesco. It houses several frescoes and paintings that could rival most of the art museums in Italy. You will also find the Cathedral of San Rufino, with its amazing early medieval stone carvings depicting scenes of animals, mythical beasts, foliage, and saints. Read more about ‘Top 10 Essential Travel Tips for First-Time Flyers’.
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