If you’re fortunate enough to spend more than one day in Tuscany’s capital, then you should definitely start thinking about some day trips from Florence.

While the Jewel of the Renaissance is spectacular in its own right, it’s also the perfect jumping off point for some exciting adventures just nearby. In fact – with the exception of the Cinque Terre – all of the Florence day trips in this guide are conveniently located within a two-hour commute from the city!

Start putting together an incredible Italy itinerary with these awesome day trip ideas, from celebrated cities to hilltop hideaways.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Read the full disclosure here.

While the Cinque Terre misses the two-hours-from-Florence mark by just a hair, you really won’t want to drive to this pedestrian-friendly paradise anyway. Instead, the best way to get to Italy’s five lands is by train, which is roughly a two-and-a-half-hour journey from Florence.

Now, despite recommending that you spend at least three days in the Cinque Terre, sometimes you just don’t have the luxury of time. In that case, a day trip will at least give you a sample of the area so that you can get your feet wet for a future visit.

If you’re unfamiliar with this beautiful seaside slice of Italy’s Liguria region in the province of La Spezia, the Cinque Terre is made up of five villages (or “five lands”). From north to south, these include Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. In combination, the towns make up Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

The Cinque Terre is suitable for various travel styles, whether you’re seeking an action-packed hiking adventure on one of the region’s many trails, looking to wander the old towns and harbors, or simply craving some R&R on a beautiful sand beach!

However, while each town is well-worth visiting – and many attempt to squeeze all five villages into a single day – I’d caution against this.

Instead, you’re better off selecting two or three towns to focus on so that you can actually enjoy them without rushing around. Although this 3-day Cinque Terre itinerary is intended for a multi-day trip, you can reference the two- and three-town combination suggestions to make the best decision. Plus, you can also check out the top activities by town.

Alternatively, if you ultimately decide to dedicate a few days to this Instagrammer’s paradise, you can determine the best Cinque Terre town to stay in based on your unique travel style!

Submitted by Elena of The Carry-On Chronicles

Lerici is another town in the province of La Spezia, which is part of the Italian Riviera. You can travel here by car from Florence in about 90 minutes. Lerici is picturesque and sleepy, with rocky cliffs and the sparkling sea. If you’re looking for the same draw as Cinque Terre without the crowds, Lerici is the destination.

There are an abundance of hiking trails if you’re looking to hike throughout the hills. There’s also a mile-long promenade along the water that houses artisan shops, cute cafés, and plenty of restaurants.

Stop for gelato at Gelateria Il Lungomare; once you’ve picked out your perfect flavor, sit outside while overlooking the spectacular sea views.

Other local sights include the Torre di San Rocco, which is a Roman-era tower that was converted into a bell tower in the 1600s. There’s also a nearby fishing village which houses the Castello di San Terenzo and now includes periodic art exhibitions.

With wonderful beaches, a great year-round climate, an abundance of fun activities, and delicious food and wine, Lerici is a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of Florence.

Submitted by Jaclyn of MyRestingBeachFace

Modena, Italy is one of the easiest and best day trips from Florence. Sure, you can get there by car in under two hours, but the quickest way is by train. The high-speed is comfortable and will get you there in one hour.

Modena is a great day trip for many reasons. First and foremost, it’s one of Italy’s best food cities. The city’s location in Emilia-Romagna’s Po River Valley makes it an agricultural hub and foodie’s delight.

It’s home to several of Italy’s most iconic foods – Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, aged balsamic vinegar, and aged prosciutto ham are all produced here. Spend the day shopping and eating your way through Mercato Albinelli, one of Modena’s most authentic local markets. You can try all of these local foods and many more.

But food isn’t the only reason to visit. The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s also the birthplace of two of Italy’s most beloved sons, Enzo Ferrari and Luciano Pavarotti. Take a tour of the two Ferrari Museums and go inside Pavarotti’s home for a unique glimpse of this Italian opera star.

Submitted by Lori of ItalyFoodies

Just a short one-hour train ride from Florence is one of Italy’s most amazing gastronomic cities, but you don’t have to be a foodie to fall in love with Bologna, one of the hidden gems of Europe.

Bologna is well-known for many other reasons, though it’s largely under visited – the result, perhaps, of being situated equidistant between two of Italy’s most touristed cities, Florence and Venice.

The medieval city of Bologna has not one, but three interesting nicknames that speak to its most unique features – “La Rossa, La Dotta, e La Grassa”. The Red is either a nod to the city’s red-tiled rooftops or its left-leaning politics. The Learned refers to Bologna’s university – the oldest in the world circa 1088. And finally, The Fat, a description so apropos for Bologna’s delicious food and compelling food scene. Don’t leave without trying the tortellini at Sfoglia Rina.

If an authentic and well-preserved medieval Italian city filled with arts, culture, and lively activity doesn’t tempt you here, maybe the porticoes – such as the Portico of San Luca in Bologna – will do the trick. 27 miles of them wind their way through the city so you can explore rain or shine and admire this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Submitted by Lori of Travelinmad

Getting to Imola from Florence is quite easy. It’s either an hour’s train ride or two hours’ drive away.

Most famous for the Formula One racing circuit, Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, where the Italian Grand Prix is held, Imola has much more to offer the day visitor.

Near the centre of Imola is the Rocca Sforzesca, a 13th-century fortress which dominates the area. The fortress is now a museum with ceramics, armour, and artwork.

Other museums in Imola, including the Palace Tozzoni, give an insight into an 18th-century Italian noble family. The Museo Checco Costa at the racing circuit has an exhibition dedicated to Aryton Senna.

Take time to wander the streets of Imola through the porticoes and have a coffee in one of the coffee shops or have lunch in one of the many osterie.

Pop into Farmacia Comunale Ospedale Santa Maria della Scaletta to see the pharmacy as it was in 1794. The walls are lined with beautiful antique majolica vases in blue which used to hold the medicines used in the pharmacy.

If you fancy some nature, you can stroll through the Parco di Acque Minerale or the Parco Tozzoni, located just outside the centre.

Submitted by Larch of The Silver Nomad

A short drive or train ride from Florence, Lucca is one of the most fun and beautiful cities to visit, especially in the Tuscany region. The town dates back to the Etruscans, and you’ll immediately notice the old Roman walls that surround the old town. Take time to walk or even ride a bike on them.

Inside the town of Lucca, there are over 100 churches and cathedrals, each one prettier than the one before it. You’ll definitely want to check out the Church of San Michele in Foro. From there, make sure to grab a great lunch in the iconic Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, which is oval in shape. While there, try the local specialty, Zuppa di Farro.

Don’t miss out on the wonderful shopping for local goods as you wander through the cobblestone streets.

Being so close to Florence, driving will take about one hour and 15 minutes. However, it’s best to get there by train so that you don’t have to worry about parking. Trains depart from both directions several times per day from Firenze Santa Maria Novella. 

Submitted by Corinne of Reflections Enroute

One of the most beautiful places for a trip from Florence is definitely Viareggio in Italy. This pretty coastal town is located in Western Tuscany and can be reached in about one hour and 15 minutes by car, but also by train.

Viareggio is famous as an Art Nouveau town and it’s well-known for its many wonderful beaches. Here, you can enjoy one of the longest sandy beaches in Italy! The historic bagnos, the so-called beach baths, line the coast and conjure up a very unique ambience with their many colorful umbrellas.

A real highlight is the picturesque long promenade dating back to 1917 with its countless colorful buildings and villas in the Art Nouveau style. Even today, the buildings with their turrets and oriels, decorations, ceramic tiles, and glass windows give the promenade an unmistakable character. Here, you’ll also find a wide selection of stores, boutiques, and restaurants. Many locals also come here on weekends to shop, eat, or just take a nice walk.

Delicious food can also be found along the long pier, where numerous street food stalls and boats offer their wares. Octopus Friggitaria Gastronomia is particularly recommended!

A real insider tip is the carnival in February. It’s the second largest (after Venice) in Italy and a trip there is a must when you’re in Tuscany.

Submitted by Martina of PlacesofJuma

There are amazing day trips from Florence, and one of the most popular destinations is Pisa, the city known for its famous Leaning Tower and other iconic buildings. Pisa is one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany, and for good reasons; it has a lot of history and amazing monumental buildings.

Pisa is only a one-hour train ride or one hour and 20 minutes by car from Florence, so get ready for a thrilling day trip.

The Leaning Tower is the most famous attraction in Pisa and one of the most remarkable landmarks in Italy. In fact, nobody visits Pisa without stopping by this iconic structure. This ornate free-standing tower is one of the most exceptional examples of architecture from medieval times.

Another must-visit in Pisa is the brilliant white Pisa Cathedral. It’s a magnificent building to behold, an absolutely grand structure, and a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.

The rest of the city is a bit quieter because most tourists only come to see the Tower. Stop for coffee, take a peek into different shops, and enjoy street art from world-renowned artist Keith Haring. Even though the major city center is inland from the coast, Pisa still has a lovely shoreline.

Submitted by Paula of Paula Pins the Planet

About a 45-minute drive west of Florence, you’ll find the small village of Vinci perched on a hilltop. Traveling by car and parking on the street outside the fortress is the best option for this day trip from Florence, as the bus-and-train combo takes twice as long.

You may have guessed, Vinci is best known as the birthplace of the original Renaissance man, Leonardo da Vinci. You can visit the home where he was born, Casa Natale di Leonardo, about five minutes outside of the village walls.

Indeed, much of this charming medieval village centers around da Vinci.  A wooden sculpture of da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man takes center stage in the Piazza des Guidi. The da Vinci Museum displays drawings of his original inventions, models, and tools. And the Castle of the Conti Guidi also showcases some of the genius works of Leonardo.

The town of Vinci itself is quite picturesque and offers beautiful views of the Tuscan countryside and surrounding olive groves. If you’re interested in Italian cuisine, try an olive oil tasting at one of the local farms. Stop at the Tourist Information Center outside of the Vinci walls for the list of local farmers offering tours.

Submitted by Denise of Chef Denise

In the area between Florence and Siena, there’s the Chianti region. It’s renowned all over the world for its wines and its postcard landscapes, which have become the icon of the Italian countryside. In this land made of sunny hills and rustic houses surrounded by cultivations, one of the first inhabited centers you’ll meet is the village of Sant’Andrea in Percussina, a fraction of San Casciano in Val di Pesa.

The village has only 38 inhabitants living in typical Tuscan stone houses surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, a 12th-century restored church, and a small cemetery. The atmosphere is silent and relaxed.

The biggest house of the place, on several floors, is Villa Machiavelli. It was the property of Niccolo’ Machiavelli, one of the greatest political thinkers of all time. Here, the Florentine philosopher and writer lived during the 16th century, as we know from the letters that have been preserved until today. The entire property belongs today to the Saraceni family and is open to the public.

The villa is now a house museum with original furnishings that can be visited with a guided tour. On a tour, you can learn many curiosities about Machiavelli’s habits, including what he ordered in the kitchen. The cellars still contain barrels dating back to the 18th century.

Outside the villa, there’s an Italian garden where ceremonies are held, from which you can see Florence. Today, the tavern is a bistro restaurant where it’s possible to taste excellent Tuscan dishes and wines produced from the grapes of Machiavelli’s vineyards, currently managed by the Saraceni family. What a unique way to enjoy a wine-tasting day trip from Florence!

Submitted by Lisa of Travel Connect Experience

One of the best day trips from Florence is Livorno. Located on the west coast of Italy, Livorno is one of the largest cities in Tuscany and offers many different sights to see.

Livorno is about a 90-minute train ride from Florence or a one-hour-and-fifteen-minute drive. It’s approximately 90 kilometers (60 miles) from Florence.

The best way to get to Livorno is via train since you won’t be saving that much time by driving. Plus, the train provides a more stress-free experience.

Livorno is one of the prettiest cities in Italy, and there are many things to do there. Fortezza Nuovo is a must. This fort was built in the 1500s to defend Livorno.

Another fun thing to do is just wander around the port. Plus, there are several canals that line Livorno and you can see a beautiful one at Nuovo Venezia.

Last but not least, explore Piazza della Repubblica. This town square is full of life and has several restaurants and cafés.

One of the best restaurants in Livorno is Ristorante Gennarino, which offers fresh seafood dishes and traditional pasta dishes as well.

Submitted by Disha of Disha Discovers

Siena is one of the best day trips from Florence. It’s located south of Florence in the province of Siena. To get there from Florence, you can opt to drive which will take you about an hour.

Alternatively, you can take the train or bus which will take about an hour and a half. Both ways make for an easy trip and you will not need a car once you arrive in Sienna.

During your time in Siena, you’ll want to visit the Palazzo Pubblico, the town hall of Siena that dates back to 1297. As part of this complex, you can climb the 300 steps to the top of the Torre del Mangia. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with astounding views of Siena.

Also make sure to stop at the Siena Cathedral to see the immaculate decorations inside.

For a bite to eat, head to Osteria il Vinaio di Bobbe e Davide. Here, they make homemade pasta daily and serve some of the best cacio e pepe. Another food option is Ristorante Bar La Favorita which serves food, coffee, and gelato. Siena is an adorable Tuscan town with tons of streets to wander, thus making it a fun place to spend a day.

Submitted by Francesca of Homeroom Travel

The medieval hilltop town of Montepulciano is easily one of the best day trips from Florence. With its rolling hills and ancient walled city, you’ll swear you jumped into the pages of a storybook!

Located about a 90-minute drive from Florence, peaceful and picturesque Montepulciano is the perfect place to escape the chaos of city life. Driving is the most direct way to get here, as the train journey can be complicated and usually involves a change of trains.

While you’re in the area, be sure to pay a visit to the old city, one of the absolute best things to do in Montepulciano. Here, you’ll find treasures around every corner, from the iconic Piazza Grande, to an underground network of wine cellars, to breathtaking landscape views from atop the city.

Speaking of wine, a visit to one or more wineries in Montepulciano is an absolute must, whether you’re exploring an ancient city cellar or venturing to the vast countryside to toast amongst the rolling hills. In fact, this special region is known for having some of the best wine throughout Italy – and around the world!

In addition, if you’re a lover of wine, you’ll definitely want to consider staying at one of these incredible wine hotels in Tuscany. Vineyard hotels are a truly unforgettable experience that merge the pleasures of wine and travel!

Submitted by Elena of The Carry-On Chronicles

San Gimignano makes for an excellent day trip from Florence for those looking for medieval towns in the Tuscan countryside. It takes about an hour by car to reach this town from Florence.

After the first look at the stone towers rising atop the hill, you’ll realize why San Gimignano is known as the Town of Fine Towers. This ancient town served as an important relay point for pilgrims traveling to or from Rome on the Via Francigena. At present, it makes for a good short trip option before you move on to explore a Rome itinerary or head further south.

The historic town centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The central square is where you can visit the Cathedral and see the medieval towers. The only tower open to the public is the Torre Gross. At 54 meters in height, this tall tower offers panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape. But beyond sightseeing, do make time to relax, soak in the pleasant views, drink some wine, try salami at a gourmet food store, and shop at the various leather, ceramic, and food stores.

Submitted by Shweta of Zest In A Tote

Looking for a wonderfully remote hilltop town in Tuscany? Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Val d’Orcia region lies the beautiful Tuscan town of Pienza. Just over 90 minutes by car, this town that’s oozing with charm is worth visiting.

Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known as an ideal Renaissance town that has remained unchanged since 1458. Start your tour of this ancient town at the historic centre, or piazza, where you’ll find all the main buildings – a cathedral, town hall, and three palaces. Stroll the maze of delightful narrow cobblestone streets with romantic names of Via dell’Amore (Love Street) and Via del Bacio (Kiss Street). Stop in at one of the town’s many specialty cheese shops and try Pecorino di Pienza, a hard sheep’s milk cheese that Pienza is famous for.

Sitting below the city wall is an 11th-century church known as one of the most important Romanesque monuments of the region. From here, take the mere minutes’ walk to De Cypresses, or Gladiator point. This pathway is from the opening scene of the Gladiator movie, and is incredibly beautiful.

Submitted by Renee of Dream Plan Experience

If you’re looking for fun day trips from Florence, consider Montalcino in the Val d’Orcia! The little hill town is located in the province of Siena, a drive of about one hour and 30 minutes from Florence.

You ideally need a car to get to Montalcino, or you can visit as part of a guided tour to the Val d’Orcia, which generally includes Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano. Public transport options are not convenient for a day trip.

In Montalcino, walk the cobbled streets of the town and take in the breathtaking views of the countryside below. Visit the 14th-century town fortress; the views from the ramparts are panoramic.

Other buildings to admire around town include the clock tower of the town hall, and the many churches and palazzi. The Glass Museum is a fun browse. Near the town, the Sant’Antino Abbey is a must-visit.

Montalcino is famous for its Brunello wine, so if you enjoy wine, tastings should definitely be on your agenda!

Il Moro is a great place to have lunch in Montalcino, if you plan to stay in town. The views are fabulous and the food delicious.

Submitted by Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles

Want to ditch the crowds and visit an underrated gem of a city on a day trip from Florence?

Make your way to beautiful Arezzo!

This gorgeous Tuscan city lies less than an hour from Florence by train or about an hour by car, and while there’s plenty to see, the crowds of San Gimignano and Pisa will be profoundly absent.

Some of the best things to do in Arezzo include climbing the clock tower at Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici from amazing views over the Piazza Grande, touring the archaeological museum, and admiring the remarkable 15th-century frescoes in the church of San Francesco.

Arezzo is also known for its antique shops and fairs – perfect for hunting for a unique souvenir from Tuscany!

Since this is Tuscany, there’s an overwhelming number of places to enjoy delicious food, too! Consider heading to Antica Osteria l’Agania for a relaxing lunch during your day trip.

Submitted by Kate of Our Escape Clause

While Cortona is most famous as the backdrop from Francis Mayes’s Under the Tuscan Sun, its position as a culinary delight of Tuscany is severely overlooked.

Located only 90 minutes south of Florence, Cortona is easily reached by train or by car. Upon arrival, work your way up to the top of the town, stopping at the churches along the way until you reach the Basilica di Santa Margherita.

Not only will you be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside, but also with one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Tuscany. From there, it’s a short climb to Fortress of Girifalco.

After discovering how this site fortified and protected Cortona, you’re ready to make your way back down to the Piazza della Repubblica for aperitivo or Gelateria Snoopy and some lovely people-watching or gallery hopping before treating yourself to a delicious meal.

Great food can be found at every price point in Cortona, but you’ll need a reservation. Consider La Buccaccia for a Michelin-starred splurge without Michelin prices. For a more moderate meal, Trattoria La Grotta is tucked in a small square off the piazza. And, if you’re on a budget, Trattoria Dardano and Trattoria Etrusca can fill your stomach with Tuscan specialties at a fair price point.

Before you head back to Florence, make one final climb up to Piazza Garibaldi for one last view of the Tuscany countryside from Cortona’s most iconic lookout point.

Submitted by Sara of Journey of Doing

Perugia is a beautiful medieval hill town in the heart of Umbria. The city is about 95 miles southeast of Florence and it takes just under two hours to get there by car or train. Both are convenient. If you drive, park at one of the private parking garages on the edge of the historic center and take an escalator and walk from there.

Perugia is one of the most famous towns in all of Italy for the passeggiata, the classic evening stroll that’s such an important part of Italian culture, because the center of town is a wide, cobbled pedestrian street. On the main square, Piazza IV Noviembre, is the famous Fontana Maggiore, a medieval fountain with beautiful friezes.

You’ll also find the National Gallery of Umbria here, with a huge collection of medieval and renaissance art.

There’s also a perfectly preserved aqueduct, the Via dell’Acquedotto, that you can walk along the top of. And don’t miss the enormous Etruscan Arc, Augustus Gate.

For something more modern, head to the Casa del Cioccolato Perugina, the chocolate factory where Baci chocolates are made!  There are also several restaurants that serve traditional Umbrian cuisine in Perugia – Osteria a Priori is a top pick.

For a day of food, history, scenery, and people-watching, Perugia is hard to beat!

Submitted by James Ian of Travel Collecting

Orvieto is a stunning historic town in the region of Umbria, and it’s famous for its endless wineries and vineyards. It takes just under two hours to reach Orvieto from Florence by car, and around two hours and 15 minutes by train. Since parking in Orvieto is quite easy to find, it’s recommended to go by car.

Orvieto is definitely one of the best day trips from Florence for its history, hilltop views, and wine tasting. This small town has a very laid-back atmosphere, and many wineries there offer free tastings for tourists. This town is so charming that it’s also a popular day trip from Rome.

Start your visit in Orvieto at the beautiful Duomo di Orvieto, the crown jewel of the city. Inside, you can see stunning frescoes and admire its Gothic architecture. Afterward, stop by the Well of St. Patrick. Take the steps all the way down to the bottom of the well for a unique experience.

No trip to Orvieto is complete without a visit to Torre del Moro. Climb up this tower to get magnificent views of the countryside, and snap some pictures of the green rolling hills in the distance.

Don’t leave Orvieto without strolling its historic cobblestone streets and tasting delicious local wine at the many wine shops around town. Be sure to also stop by Ristorante Il Cocco for some exquisite pasta.

Submitted by Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad

That brings us to the end of these fun Florence day trip ideas. I hope these incredible destinations have inspired you to explore beyond the city limits.

Whether you’re looking to broaden your knowledge of incredible historic cities, enjoy a relaxing coastal escape, or get lost in the sweeping Tuscan countryside, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy!

Have you ever done any of these day trips from Florence before? If not, which spot is calling your name? Let me know in the comments below!

Prepping some exciting Florence adventures? Check out my other city guides:

• One Day in Florence: A Concise Itinerary to Maximize Sightseeing
• 20 Awesome Things to Do in Florence at Night
• 20 Incredible Places to See the Florence Skyline
• 20 Fantastic Florence Hotels Near the Duomo (with Killer Views)