Discover the Best Day Trips from Florence
Florence's central location offers easy access to the heart of Tuscany and beyond, with Bologna, Siena, and Pisa all within an hour's train ride. The Chianti hills and the art-rich towns of Prato and Pistoia are even closer, providing a wealth of sightseeing options for day-trippers.
1. Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is just one part of the city's UNESCO World Heritage site, which also includes the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Baptistery, and Campo Santo. These architectural marvels, along with the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, are must-sees. For a hassle-free visit, consider a guided half-day trip from Florence.
2. Bologna
Bologna, a short train ride from Florence, is renowned for its delicious cuisine, extensive arcades, and leaning towers. The city's heart features the expansive Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno, along with the impressive, albeit unfinished, Basilica of San Petronius.
3. Siena
Siena, once a rival to Florence, boasts a stunning Gothic cathedral and a wealth of historic art and architecture. The city's Piazza del Campo is famous for the exhilarating Palio horse race.
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Siena
4. Lucca
Lucca's Renaissance-era walls encircle a city rich in Romanesque architecture, such as the San Michele in Foro church. Don't miss the unique experience of climbing the Guinigi Tower.
5. Cinque Terre
The five villages of Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer stunning natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere. Explore them by train, trail, or boat for a memorable experience.
6. Monti del Chianti (Chianti Hills)
Driving through the Chianti Hills reveals Tuscany's quintessential landscapes, dotted with olive groves and medieval fortresses like Greve and Castellina.
7. San Gimignano
San Gimignano's medieval towers and walls stand as a testament to its history as a pilgrimage stop. Nearby Volterra offers a quieter but equally charming experience.
8. Assisi
Assisi is not only the home of St. Francis but also a treasure trove of medieval and Renaissance art, including the Basilica di San Francesco adorned by Giotto's frescoes.
9. Pistoia
Pistoia's medieval churches, like the Cattedrale di San Zeno, are filled with artistic masterpieces, including works by Andrea della Robbia and Filippo Lippi.
10. Arezzo
Arezzo, rich in Etruscan and Roman history, is adorned with art by Cimabue, Vasari, and Piero della Francesca, particularly in its cathedral and museums.
11. Prato
Prato, a short distance from Florence, is known for its cathedral frescoes by Filippo Lippi and its collection of Renaissance art in the Museo Civico.
12. Monteriggioni
The well-preserved medieval castle of Monteriggioni offers a glimpse into the past, especially during the annual Festival of Monteriggioni.
13. Montecatini Terme
Montecatini Terme is a historic spa town with beautiful gardens and a medieval village accessible by a vintage funicular.
Official site: http://www.termemontecatini.it/en/
14. Villa Poggio a Caiano
The Medici's summer retreat, Villa Poggio a Caiano, showcases Renaissance architecture and houses the Museum of Still Life.
Address: Piazza dei Medici 14, Poggio a Caiano
More Related Articles on tripates.com
More Places to Visit in Tuscany: For more travel ideas, check out our pages on day trips from Siena and the top tourist attractions in Tuscany.
Where to Go from Florence: Explore more of Italy's attractions, like the Byzantine mosaics in Ravenna, easily accessible from Florence.
