Plan an easy day trip from Florence by train. (credit)
If you’ve been dreaming of exploring Tuscany, Florence is the perfect home base for your next Italian holiday. With Italy’s efficient train network and Florence’s central location, you can easily access some of Italy’s most charming destinations. Here are five fantastic day trips from Florence by train, all within an hour’s journey, allowing you to experience the beauty of Tuscany and its neighboring regions during your stay.
Head to Arezzo for history and charm.
1: Arezzo
Steeped in history and art, Arezzo has that feeling of a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From Florence, the train journey to Arezzo takes around 1 hour and offers a glimpse into the rural beauty of Tuscany. Upon arrival, make your way to the Piazza Grande, surrounded by elegant medieval buildings and home to the impressive 10th-century Santa Maria della Pieve church and the Vasari Loggia. Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the chance to visit the Arezzo Cathedral and Basilica of San Francesco, housing Piero della Francesca’s famous fresco cycle The Legend of the True Cross.
Spend a day exploring historic Bologna. (credit)
2: Bologna
Bologna beckons with a tapestry of history, flavor and architectural beauty waiting to be explored. Home to the prestigious University of Bologna, founded in 1088, this city boasts a cultural legacy that spans centuries. Arriving by train from Florence in just 35-40 minutes, begin your day trip by meandering through the medieval labyrinth of its city center, where the iconic Two Towers stand tall against the skyline. Plan time for a delicious lunch as Bologna’s cuisine is quite possibly the best in Italy. Travel tip: Bologna’s train station is surprisingly large. It’s a good idea to arrive a little early to make sure you have time to navigate the station.
Lucca is only a short train trip from Florence. (credit)
3: Lucca
Just a short train ride away from Florence, Lucca is a picturesque walled city brimming with history and charm. The journey from Florence to Lucca takes around 1 hour, offering scenic views of the Tuscan countryside along the way. Upon arrival, rent a bicycle and pedal along the tree-lined walls surrounding the city, providing panoramic views of the red-tiled roofs and medieval towers. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets, visit the stunning Duomo di San Martino, and relax in one of the tranquil piazzas while savoring a gelato.
See the stunning Duomo of Siena. (credit)
4: Siena
Siena, renowned for its medieval buildings, Gothic architecture and the famous Palio horse race, is another captivating day trip option from Florence. The train journey to Siena takes approximately 1 hour and offers glimpses of the rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the Piazza del Campo, visit the magnificent Siena Cathedral with its striking black and white marble façade, and wander through the labyrinthine streets of the historic center, discovering the charm around every corner. Find more details for planning a Siena day trip from Florence here.
5: Pisa
No visit to Tuscany is complete without a stop in Pisa to marvel at its iconic Leaning Tower. The train journey from Florence to Pisa takes approximately 1 hour, making it an ideal day trip destination. Besides the Leaning Tower, explore the magnificent Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the Cathedral and Baptistery, both stunning examples of Romanesque architecture. After snapping the quintessential photo holding up the Leaning Tower, wander through the charming streets of Pisa, discovering cozy cafes and artisan shops. Or you can easily reach Pisa by bus on this Pisa and the Leaning Tower Roundtrip from Florence tour.
Set off from Florence’s train station for easy day trips. (credit)
Florence’s strategic location and efficient train connections make it the perfect hub for exploring the treasures of Tuscany and beyond. Whether you’re captivated by medieval towns, fascinated by Renaissance art or enticed by mouthwatering cuisine, these day trips will enhance your stay in Italy. Book your Florence vacation rental with Italy Perfect for a comfortable home base and then hop on a train from Florence for unforgettable adventures throughout Tuscany!
