Florence is the perfect base for exploring Tuscany. Here’s how the most popular day trips compare.
Day trips from Florence compared
| Destination | Travel time (one way) | How | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pisa | ~1 h | Train | The Leaning Tower, Piazza dei Miracoli |
| Lucca | ~1.5 h | Train | Cycling the Renaissance walls |
| Siena | ~1–1.5 h | Bus or tour | Piazza del Campo, the Duomo |
| San Gimignano | ~1.5 h | Tour, or bus via Poggibonsi | Medieval towers, gelato |
| Chianti | ~30–60 min | Tour or car | Wine tasting, hill towns |
| Cinque Terre | ~2.5–3 h | Train via La Spezia, or a tour | Coastal villages, hiking |
Pisa and Lucca
Combine both in one day by train. Climb the Leaning Tower (book a slot) in the morning, then cycle Lucca’s walls in the afternoon.
Siena and San Gimignano
Siena’s shell-shaped Piazza del Campo and striped cathedral are unforgettable. Many tours combine Siena, San Gimignano and a Chianti winery in one day.
Chianti
Rolling vineyards, castles and wine tastings in Greve, Radda and Castellina. Don’t drink and drive. A tour or a designated driver is best.
Cinque Terre
A long but rewarding day. Take the train to La Spezia, then the Cinque Terre line between the five villages. It’s better with an overnight stay.
Compare day tours from Florence to Pisa, Siena, Chianti and Cinque Terre.
Tips
- Validate regional train tickets if they’re paper, or use digital tickets.
- Book the Leaning Tower climb ahead in summer.
- Fit one day trip into our Florence itinerary.
More Florence guides
- Florence travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Florence
- Florence itinerary: 2, 3 or 4 days
- Where to stay in Florence
- Uffizi and Accademia tickets
- Florence Duomo tickets and the dome climb
- Florence and Pisa airports to the city
FAQ: Day trips from Florence
What is the best day trip from Florence?
Siena for history and beauty, Chianti for wine, and Pisa plus Lucca for an easy train day.
Can you do Pisa and Lucca in one day?
Yes. They’re on the same rail line, so spend the morning in Pisa and the afternoon in Lucca.
Is Cinque Terre doable as a day trip from Florence?
Yes, but it’s long, at 5–6 hours of travel. An overnight stay is more relaxing.
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