Florence is the gem of the Renaissance and deserves enough time to be explored properly. But for eager travelers excited to see other parts of il bel paese, Florence provides the perfect starting point for a number of beautiful day trips around Tuscany and the surrounding regions. Whether you travel by car or by train, here are a few of the best day trips to discover from Florence.

1. Chianti

We highly recommend taking time to explore some of the Italian countryside while you’re in Italy. There’s truly no better place to do that than the Chianti region. Whether you join a guided winery tour or explore on your own, there’s no shortage of beautiful vineyard views, winding hills, and silvery olive trees glittering in the sun. Not to mention, the wine, cheese, and olive oils in this region are unparalleled. For those looking for a little more adventure, try a vineyard horseback tour or drive a Vespa through the countryside.

2. Chianti

Siena is a beautiful medieval city just two hours away from Florence. It’s the perfect stop for any art and history lovers and is also home to the world’s oldest bank (with its own unmatched art collection to boot). Explore the amazing cathedral with its black and white marble then climb to see the incredible views from the Facciatone Terrace. The works to expand the cathedral of Siena were never completed due to the plague in the 1300s, leaving this portion of the complex unfinished. When you get hungry from all the history, make a pit stop at Caffe A. Nannini and try a warm bombolone—a sort of filled donut that’s best devoured in these historic surroundings.

3. Cinque Terre

A popular destination for many visitors to Italy, Cinque Terre is located on the Northwest coast of Italy just south of the port city of Genova. The famed five towns are wedged into cliffs over the Ligurian Sea, allowing for spectacular views. Visitors can either hike or ride the train from town to town. This region of Italy, called Liguria, is known for many things—but most of all, its focaccia and pesto. Leave time to try the local specialties between your hikes along the sea!

4. Assisi

Assisi is one of Italy’s cultural gems, especially for those that love churches with incredible history. The main highlight is the Basilica of St. Francis. Its two levels exude beauty, including the famous 13th-century frescoes attributed to Giotto, Cimabue, and others, portraying St. Francis’s life. Those interested can find an incorruptible—the body of St. Clare that never decayed—in the nearby Church of Santa Chiara. Needless to say, you will leave feeling awestruck and a little closer to heaven.

Before you catch your train back to Florence, though, make sure you pick up an artisanal item made from olive wood, the region’s specialty. For those that celebrate Christmas, a Nativity scene is the perfect souvenir—legend has it that Assisi’s very own St. Francis came up with the idea to make Nativity scenes to help people better understand the birth of Jesus. Catch the sunset over the olive groves while you enjoy the last moments in this charming hilltop town.

5. Verona

Verona is a town that fulfills all daydreams and prior imaginations of Italy: colorful apartments, balconies overflowing with plants, and pink marble streets. It’s also the city where Romeo and Juliet is set, so there’s always a hint of romance in the air. Verona is just north of Florence and south of Venice. A slower pace is encouraged—linger over a long lunch and join the families in their afternoon passeggiata around town.

There are plenty of historical sites in Verona too, from the Arena (one of the most well-preserved ancient structures, dating to 30 AD) and the famous Ponte Pietra, which the Veronese rebuilt after it was bombed during World War II. Visit the Castel San Pietro for panoramic views of this fairytale city.

6. Bologna

Bologna is the perfect place for any gastronomy-loving travelers to spend the day. Known for its food, its UNESCO World Heritage porticoes, and its university (the oldest in the world!), Bologna has an energy that’s hard to match. It’s vibrant and bustling, with not just one, but two leaning towers. Take that, Pisa! Visit the markets and dine in one of the many cozy trattorias when you take a day trip to Bologna from Florence.

7. Pisa

Of course, most travelers to Italy know Pisa, and most know about its most famous leaning tower. Thankfully there’s more to the city than this off-kilter landmark (though it really is a sight to behold). Explore their vintage market in Piazza dei Cavalieri if you’re visiting on the weekend, then take some time to admire the artwork in Palazzo Blu. When it’s time for lunch, a panino and a glass of wine from the humble Il Crudo will satisfy all your desires!

8. Lucca

Close to Pisa is Lucca, another small Renaissance town that’s worth a visit when you’re considering easy day trips from Florence. If you’re looking for some activity, rent a bike and ride along the well-preserved city walls that encircle the historic center. Don’t forget to try some Tuscan specialties while you’re there, like wild boar and truffle.

9. Venice

Though we do recommend a longer stay in Venice, it is close enough to visit for the day from Florence. So, if you don’t have time for a weekend in La Serenissima, a day trip is the right idea. Stroll through Piazza San Marco, climb the bell tower for an aerial view of the city and surrounding water, or take a trip to one of the other islands. Some options include Murano and Burano—Murano is known for its glass, which is twisted and spun into incredible shapes by the talented glassblowers, and Burano is famous for its brightly colored houses.

If you’re visiting Italy during the spring, a trip to Venice for Carnevale is unforgettable. Be sure to respect the Venetian natives and local laws while you’re there, Venice is a treasure that we want to preserve for generations to come. The beauty of this incredible city is worth every effort.

Exploring Italy From Florence

We hope this list gives you some great ideas for the next time you’re based in Florence. From the rolling hills of Chianti to the seaside of Liguria, there are so many beautiful places to explore that are just a few hours away. Explore Italy and marvel at the cultural and historic treasures that each of these places has to offer.

 

 

This post is by Maggie, the blogger behind The Artful Everyday and former Rome Abroad traveler. Follow her on Instagram for more Italy content and travel tips.