Best One-Day Trips from Florence: Discover Tuscany's Hidden Gems
Siena
Explore the best of Siena in a day!
Pisa
Explore the best of Pisa in a day!
Lucca
Explore the best of Lucca in a day!
San Gimignano
Explore the best of San Gimignano in a day!
One-Day Trip from Florence to Siena
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Florence: 75 km (47 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours by car, 1.5 hours by bus, 1.5 hours by train
Transportation Options
- By Car: Take the Raccordo Autostradale Firenze-Siena (RA3) for a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside.
- By Bus: Regular buses depart from Florence's SITA bus station, offering a comfortable and direct route to Siena.
- By Train: Trains run frequently from Florence Santa Maria Novella station to Siena, with a transfer at Empoli.
Main Attractions
Piazza del Campo Piazza del Campo is one of Europe's greatest medieval squares, known for its unique shell shape and the famous Palio horse race. The square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia. Don't miss the chance to climb the tower for panoramic views of Siena.
Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) This magnificent Gothic cathedral is adorned with intricate marble floors, stunning frescoes, and a breathtaking facade. Inside, you'll find works by Michelangelo, Donatello, and Bernini. The Piccolomini Library, with its vibrant frescoes, is a highlight not to be missed.
Basilica of San Domenico This imposing church is home to the relics of St. Catherine of Siena, one of Italy's patron saints. The basilica's simple exterior contrasts with its richly decorated interior, which includes beautiful frescoes and a chapel dedicated to St. Catherine.
Itinerary Suggestions
Start your day early with a visit to Piazza del Campo, where you can enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes while soaking in the atmosphere. Next, head to the Siena Cathedral to marvel at its artistic treasures. After a leisurely lunch, visit the Basilica of San Domenico. Spend the afternoon wandering the charming streets of Siena, exploring its shops and hidden corners. Return to Florence in the early evening.
Local Food
- Pici: Thick, hand-rolled pasta often served with a rich meat sauce or garlic and tomato sauce.
- Ribollita: A hearty Tuscan soup made with bread, beans, and vegetables.
- Panforte: A traditional Sienese dessert made with nuts, dried fruit, and spices.
Local Tips
For the best photo opportunities, climb the Torre del Mangia for stunning views of Siena and the surrounding countryside. Don't forget to explore the quieter side streets and alleys, where you'll find hidden gems and fewer tourists.
One-Day Trip from Florence to Pisa
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Florence: 85 km (53 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours by car, 1 hour by train
Transportation Options
- By Car: Take the A11/E76 highway for a straightforward drive to Pisa.
- By Train: Trains run frequently from Florence Santa Maria Novella station to Pisa Centrale, making it a convenient option.
Main Attractions
Leaning Tower of Pisa The iconic Leaning Tower is a must-see, known worldwide for its unintended tilt. Climb the tower for a unique experience and a fantastic view of Pisa. Be sure to take the classic tourist photo "holding up" the tower.
Piazza dei Miracoli This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Baptistery, and the Camposanto Monumentale. The square's lush green lawn and stunning white marble buildings create a picturesque setting.
Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Pisa) The cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, featuring a stunning facade, intricate mosaics, and a beautiful pulpit by Giovanni Pisano. The interior is equally impressive, with its grand nave and richly decorated apse.
Itinerary Suggestions
Begin your day at the Piazza dei Miracoli, exploring the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the Arno River and enjoy lunch at a local trattoria. In the afternoon, visit the Camposanto Monumentale and explore the historic center of Pisa. Return to Florence in the early evening.
Local Food
- Cecina: A savory chickpea flour pancake, often enjoyed as a street food.
- Torta co' bischeri: A traditional Pisan cake filled with rice, chocolate, and nuts.
- Pappardelle al cinghiale: Wide pasta ribbons served with a rich wild boar sauce.
Local Tips
For a quieter experience, visit the Piazza dei Miracoli early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Don't miss the chance to explore Pisa's lesser-known attractions, such as the Botanical Garden and the Church of Santa Maria della Spina.
One-Day Trip from Florence to Lucca
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Florence: 80 km (50 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours by car, 1.5 hours by train
Transportation Options
- By Car: Take the A11/E76 highway for a scenic drive to Lucca.
- By Train: Trains run frequently from Florence Santa Maria Novella station to Lucca, making it a convenient option.
Main Attractions
Lucca's City Walls The well-preserved Renaissance walls encircle the historic center of Lucca. You can walk or bike along the tree-lined promenade for beautiful views of the city and its surroundings. The walls are a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro This unique oval-shaped square was built on the site of an ancient Roman amphitheater. The charming piazza is lined with colorful buildings, cafes, and shops, making it a great place to relax and people-watch.
Lucca Cathedral (Duomo di San Martino) The cathedral is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, featuring a beautiful facade, intricate carvings, and a richly decorated interior. Inside, you'll find the famous Volto Santo, a wooden crucifix believed to have been carved by Nicodemus.
Itinerary Suggestions
Start your day with a walk or bike ride along Lucca's city walls, enjoying the views and the fresh air. Next, head to Piazza dell'Anfiteatro for a coffee and some people-watching. Afterward, visit the Lucca Cathedral and explore its artistic treasures. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria, then spend the afternoon wandering the charming streets of Lucca, visiting shops and hidden corners. Return to Florence in the early evening.
Local Food
- Buccellato: A sweet bread with raisins and aniseed, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
- Tordelli Lucchesi: Handmade pasta filled with meat and served with a rich meat sauce.
- Zuppa di farro: A hearty soup made with spelt, beans, and vegetables.
Local Tips
For the best views of Lucca, climb the Guinigi Tower, which is topped with a small garden of oak trees. Don't miss the chance to explore the quieter side streets and alleys, where you'll find hidden gems and fewer tourists.
One-Day Trip from Florence to San Gimignano
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance from Florence: 60 km (37 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours by car, 2 hours by bus
Transportation Options
- By Car: Take the Raccordo Autostradale Firenze-Siena (RA3) and follow the signs to San Gimignano for a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside.
- By Bus: Buses depart from Florence's SITA bus station, with a transfer in Poggibonsi.
Main Attractions
Piazza della Cisterna This picturesque square is the heart of San Gimignano, surrounded by medieval towers and historic buildings. The square is named after the ancient cistern in its center, which once provided water to the town. It's a great place to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
Torre Grossa The tallest tower in San Gimignano offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside. Climb the tower for a unique perspective and a fantastic photo opportunity. The tower is part of the Palazzo Comunale, which also houses a museum with frescoes and artworks.
Collegiate Church of San Gimignano This beautiful Romanesque church is adorned with stunning frescoes depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments. The church's interior is a visual feast, with vibrant colors and intricate details. Don't miss the Chapel of Santa Fina, dedicated to the town's patron saint.
Itinerary Suggestions
Begin your day at Piazza della Cisterna, enjoying a coffee and the charming atmosphere. Next, climb the Torre Grossa for panoramic views of San Gimignano and the surrounding countryside. Afterward, visit the Collegiate Church and marvel at its frescoes. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria, then spend the afternoon exploring the town's shops, museums, and hidden corners. Return to Florence in the early evening.
Local Food
- Vernaccia di San Gimignano: A crisp white wine produced in the region, perfect for pairing with local dishes.
- Cinghiale: Wild boar, often served in stews or as a pasta sauce.
- Panforte: A traditional Sienese dessert made with nuts, dried fruit, and spices.
Local Tips
For the best photo opportunities, visit the Rocca di Montestaffoli, a ruined fortress with stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside. Don't miss the chance to explore the quieter side streets and alleys, where you'll find hidden gems and fewer tourists.
ItineraryTrip
Explore your next itineray destination with our AI travel agent. ... Because travel planning can be easy.
Get Aways
Travel guides
One day trip
Welcome to our AI-powered travel expert hub!
Dive into an interactive experience where you can ask ANYTHING about the countries, cities or attractions you plan to visit. It will like having a local guide at your fingertips!
New to the adventure? You can create new account and unlock a world of travel wisdom.
Already a seasoned explorer? Simply just Log in and let the fun begin!
