Florence is one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, but its central location makes it the perfect base for exploring other Italian gems. Thanks to the high-speed rail network, you can reach world-famous cities like Venice, Milan, and Bologna in just a couple of hours. In this guide, we’ll cover the best day trips from Florence by train, how to book tickets, and what to see in each destination.
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How to Book High-Speed Trains in Italy
The easiest way to take day trips from Florence is by train. Florence’s Santa Maria Novella (SMN) station is the main hub for both Trenitalia (Frecciarossa trains) and Italo, Italy’s two high-speed train companies.
- Booking tickets: You can book online through Trenitalia, Italo, or apps like Trainline. Booking early usually saves money.
- Travel times: Most routes take between 30 minutes and 2 hours, making them ideal for day trips.
- Tickets: Digital tickets are scanned with a QR code, so there’s no need to print.
Venice – A Classic Day Trip from Florence
Taking the train from Florence to Venice is one of the most popular day trips from Florence. The ride takes just over 2 hours, dropping you right at Venezia Santa Lucia station on the Grand Canal.
Top things to do in Venice on a day trip:
- Stroll through Piazza San Marco and admire St. Mark’s Basilica.
- Make sure you purchase a ticket to enter St. Mark’s Basilica.
- Walk across the Rialto Bridge for classic canal views.
- Explore the smaller neighborhoods of Dorsoduro or Cannaregio for a quieter experience.
Bologna – A Food Lover’s Day Trip from Florence
Florence to Bologna is one of the easiest day trips, with high-speed trains taking only 35 minutes.
Highlights in Bologna:
- Wander under the famous porticoes that line the city.
- Climb the Asinelli Tower for panoramic views.
- Taste authentic Bolognese pasta (tagliatelle al ragù) and regional specialties like mortadella.
- Visit Trattoria Dal Biassanot and order Tris Bologna, the ultimate taste of Bologna’s top specialties (Tortellini ,Lasagne, Tagliatelle).
Pisa – Quick and Easy Day Trip from Florence
A Florence to Pisa day trip is a classic choice, especially if you’re short on time. The regional train takes about an hour, dropping you close to the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Things to see in Pisa:
- Climb the Leaning Tower (reserve tickets ahead of time).
- Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Baptistery in Piazza dei Miracoli.
- Walk along the Arno River and explore Pisa’s historic center.
Milan – A Stylish Day Trip from Florence
Florence to Milan is a comfortable 1 hour 45 minute train ride, making it another great day trip option.
Highlights in Milan:
- Admire the Duomo di Milano and climb to its rooftop terraces.
- Purchase tickets here
- Explore the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for shopping.
- Visit Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper (book tickets well in advance).
Siena – A Medieval Day Trip from Florence
Siena is one of the most charming Tuscan towns and makes for an excellent day trip from Florence. Trains are slower here, so buses are often the better option (1 hour 15 minutes).
Highlights in Siena:
- Stand in the stunning Piazza del Campo, famous for the Palio horse race.
- Visit the Siena Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece.
- Wander through medieval alleyways and enjoy Tuscan cuisine.
Lucca – A Hidden Gem Day Trip from Florence
Lucca is about 1 hour 20 minutes away by regional train and offers a quieter, less touristy vibe compared to Pisa.
Highlights in Lucca:
- Walk or bike along the Renaissance-era city walls.
- Explore the charming Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, built on a Roman amphitheater.
- Climb Torre Guinigi, a medieval tower topped with oak trees.
Cinque Terre – A Scenic Coastal Day Trip from Florence
While further away (2.5–3 hours by train with a transfer in La Spezia), the Cinque Terre is one of the best day trips from Florence for stunning coastal views.
Highlights in Cinque Terre:
- Hike the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) between villages.
- Explore colorful towns like Vernazza and Manarola.
- Swim or relax along the Ligurian coast.
FAQ: Day Trips from Florence
How long is the train from Florence to Venice?
The high-speed train takes just over 2 hours.
Is Pisa a good day trip from Florence?
Yes, Pisa is only about an hour away, making it one of the easiest and most popular Florence day trips.
What is the easiest day trip from Florence by train?
Bologna is the fastest, at just 35 minutes on the high-speed rail.
Can you do Cinque Terre as a day trip from Florence?
Yes, but it requires an early start and late return. Many travelers prefer to spend a night there, but it’s possible as a long day trip.
Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Florence
Whether you want food, art, history, or coastal beauty, the high-speed train network makes exploring Italy easy. These day trips from Florence will let you experience more of the country while still returning to the heart of Tuscany each evening.