If you’re already going to be in Florence, you would be missing out if you didn’t take a dedicated trip to Tuscany.
While Florence certainly has its own beauty and fascinating history, Tuscany is a great way to escape the city and into a serene realm of wine, delicious food, and rolling countryside.
There are tons of Tuscany tours out there, which can make it hard to narrow them down and choose which is best for you.
We have done the “hard” part for you, ensuring that each one of these tours are worth your time and money. Without further ado, we present to you the top day trips to Tuscany from Florence!
Be sure to see our reviews of Full Day Tuscany Day Trips, Florence Wine Tours and Cinque Terre Tours.
Best Day Trips To Tuscany From Florence
Best of Tuscany Landscape & Wine Tour Private Day Trip | Tuscany Wine Tasting Full-Day Trip From Florence | Tuscany Wine & Food Tour w/ Guide From Florence | |
---|---|---|---|
Best Private Tour | Best Guided Tour | Best Full Day Tour | |
Departure: | Hotel pickup included | Piazza della Calza | Piazzale Montelungo |
Start: | 8:30 AM | 9:45 am | Morning |
Duration: | 8 hours | 7 hours | 8 hours |
Includes: | English-speaking driver/guide, Private transport by sedan or minivan, visit to Siena and San Gimignano | Tour guide, transport for activity duration, map | Transportation, driver/guide, guided visit to 3 wineries, wine tasting, olive oil tasting, lunch, time in Greve |
Quick Answer: The 5 Best Tuscany Day Trips from Florence Tours
- Best Combination Tour: Tuscany Day Trip from Florence: Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa & Lunch at a Winery
- Best Guided Tour: Tuscany Wine & Food Tour with Guide From Florence
- Best Full Day Tour: Tuscany Wine Tasting Full-Day Trip From Florence
- Best Private Tour: Private Tuscany tour: Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti. Day Trip from Florence
- Best Budget Tour: Tuscany Day Trip with Optional Lunch and Wine From Florence
Tuscany Day Trips From Florence Reviews
1. Best Combination Tour: Tuscany Day Trip from Florence: Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa and Lunch at a Winery
- Duration: 11-12 hours
- Departure: Piazza della Stazione, 14/39, 50123
- Departure Time: 8:00 AM
- Includes: English-speaking driver/guide, transport by minivan, visit to Siena, San Gimignano and Pisa with lunch and wine tasting.
First up, we have an amazing full day of fun on the Tuscan countryside. The Tuscany Day Trip from Florence is a great way to see some of the most beautiful parts of Italy with a guided tour so you get to see more. Prepare for a day of knowledge, experiences, and a lot of fun as you’ll head to various cultural stops!
Start off in the morning where you will head to Siena. It feels like a part of this area never quite left the medieval ages, and is charming in its own way.
Here, we recommend you enjoy lunch in at the Pizzicheria de Miccolil. It’s half-butcher shop, half-bistro so you know your food is fresh. Did we mention it also includes a cheese and wine cellar?
Salamis and hams are abundant here, and try their delicious house-made pizza! Siena is definitely one of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany. That’s saying a lot, considering we are talking about the culture-rich Italian countryside.
Next onto the walled town of San Gimignano. One of the oldest villages in Chianti, some say it was even where Amerigo Vespucci was born. The fortified medieval hamlet is truly breathtaking with its scenery and architecture, and is known for its wine where you’ll try plenty.
Here you can go to the famous Guardastelle Vineyard where you can take a tour and taste some fine Italian wines. If your still hungry or even if your not, have some cheese and appetizers as well. Or go for a full lunch!
When you are ready for some exploring, we recommend checking out La Rocca di Montestaffoli. This 14th century fortress offers amazing views of the town.
Don’t miss the Torre Grossa. This is an ancient skyscraper, the ancients built them as well! When you climb to the top, you will be met by spectacular views of the town below.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
Search For Other Top Rated Florence Experiences You May Enjoy:
2. Best Guided Tour: Tuscany Wine & Food Tour with Guide From Florence
- Duration: 8 hours
- Departure: Piazzale Montelungo
- Departure Time: Morning
- Includes: Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi on board, English-speaking driver/guide, guided visit to 3 different wineries, wine tasting, olive oil tasting, lunch, free time in Greve in Chianti
If you’re a wine lover or would simply like to explore more about this world, you’re on the right track. The From Florence: Tuscany Wine & Food Tour with Guide is a bit longer, clocking in at 8 hours.
However, you’ll have time to visit 3 different wine estates and get to try all kinds of wines, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar! Another massive bonus to this tour is that they operate with very small groups, only. This means that you won’t just be lost in the crowd.
You’ll have personalized attention and can ask your guide any questions you may have. Smaller groups also allow you to simply see more!
Start off your morning by meeting at Piazzale Montelungo, where you’ll be picked up by your air-conditioned vehicle.
With wi-fi on board, you never have to worry about being out of the loop. You can go “live” on your social media platforms, send videos and photos to friends and family, post about your tour, etc. without having to wait!
However, we’re sure you’ll want to live in the moment and enjoy the beautiful scenery around you, too. As you journey around, your driver/guide will tell you and your group all about the area’s history, wine production, and other interesting facts and anecdotes.
You’ll drive south from Florence and reach your first winery where you’ll enjoy some wine and a tasty traditional Tuscan lunch.
The second winery will teach you all about the winemaking process where you’ll visit their farm and learn about where their ingredients come from. Their wine expert won’t hesitate to share interesting facts and “secrets” about their products and will give you a full tour of the space.
Make sure to try their perfectly-sweet Vin Santo dessert wine while breathing in the fresh air of the undisturbed rolling hills. Then, head to Greve in Chianti, where you’ll have some time to walk around the lovely main square which has been significant in the local community for many years.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
3. Best Full Day Tour: Tuscany Wine Tasting Full-Day Trip From Florence
- Duration: 7 hours
- Departure: Piazza della Calza
- Departure Time: 9:45 am
- Includes: Tour guide, transport for activity duration, map
First off, we have the From Florence: Tuscany Wine Tasting Full-Day Trip. Designed for independent travelers between the ages of 18 and 35 years old, it’s a lot of fun and relaxation with beautiful scenery to set the scene! This tour includes visits to 2 different wineries, but you’ll be able to learn about and experience much more than that!
Meet at a central pickup spot (Piazza della Calza) in Florence with the rest of your group and hop on board a luxury van! This van is climate-controlled, with a nice amount of space and comfortable seats. You’ll set off at 9:45 am, which means you still have some time to sleep in and enjoy breakfast before starting your tour.
Your first stop is San Gimignano, located in the Chiani countryside, which is what this area is renowned for. When you first arrive, you and your group will have time to stroll around at your own pace.
This really is one of the best ways to see it, as you’ll be able to see this charming town up close and be able to really appreciate the details, the friendly locals, and different shops.
After this, you’ll head to a wine tasting school (which everyone should be educated on!). Here, you’ll try 4 different wines, including the notorious Chianti Classico D.O.C.G., a Super Tuscan wine, a 30-year-old balsamic vinegar, and lush truffle extra virgin olive oil.
As you taste, a professional wine producer will teach you how to spot the different flavor profiles and help develop your skills.
Next, head to another local winery facing the gorgeous tower of San Gimignano. The winemakers really treat you like family, sharing secrets about their wine and oil, along with the best wine and oil pairings to take full advantage of these flavors.
After tastings, you’ll have the chance to purchase their wines at an affordable cost to enjoy at home or share with your friends and family.
Then, you’ll have more free time to wander around the little alleyways of San Gimignano with some of their world-famous gelato in hand!
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
4. Best Value Tour: Private Tuscany Tour: Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti – Day Trip from Florence
- Duration: 8 hours
- Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off included
- Departure Time: 9:00 am
- Includes: Driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, private tour, transport by air-conditioned minivan
If you’re looking for a comprehensive, educational tour of Tuscany but are on a tight budget, then you may be feeling like you don’t have a lot of options. However, we’re here to prove that wrong with our next tour! The Private Tuscany Tour: Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti Day Trip from Florence is just the ticket for what you’re searching for!
Clocking in at 8 hours, they really manage to pack everything in for an adventure-filled day that will never leave you with a dull moment. You’ll head out to 2 of the most charming, well-preserved Tuscan villages that will make you want to come back for more.
These villages aren’t quite as tourist-heavy as Rome or Florence, so you won’t have to worry about crowds or noisiness. Start off by being picked up at your Florence hotel and hop aboard a deluxe minivan with comfortable seats and large windows to admire the hills as you head toward your first destination.
Siena is up first, which is an UNESCO World Heritage-listed town known for its captivating cathedral and Piazza del Campo. The latter allows only pedestrians to walk around, slowing things down and allowing you to really treasure the environment and experience.
After some leisure time, you’ll head to the hilltop village of San Gimignano which is famous with its 14 towers! Located along the renowned “via Francigena” road once operated by pilgrims, it’s known for producing the white wine of Vernaccia di Sangimignano and saffron. Don’t miss its Duomo “La Collegiata” which was built in 1200 and is still surprisingly well-preserved!
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
5. Best Budget Tour: Tuscany Day Trip with Optional Lunch and Wine From Florence
- Duration: 12 hours
- Departure: Santa Maria Novella train station by the taxi stand
- Departure Time: Morning
- Includes: Expert guide, guided walking tour of Siena, entry ticket to Siena Cathedral, farmhouse lunch at a winery estate in Chianti (if lunch option selected, wine tasting of 4 regional wines (if lunch option selected)
Lastly, we have the longest tour on the list which is perfect for those who really want the longest experience possible for a day tour.
This 12-hour tour includes skip-the-line tickets and plenty of wine tastings to make for a wonderful experience! If that sounds like fun to you, sign up for the From Florence: Tuscany Day Trip with Optional Lunch and Wine!
Your morning starts bright and early, where you’ll meet up with your guide and the rest of the group at Florence’s central train station. Your guide will greet you and sit with you, informing you of interesting stories and historical accounts of the areas you pass by.
Your first stop will be Siena, which is known as the country’s most picturesque medieval city. We can’t deny that, as even before you get to the city center you can see just how well the locals have taken care of their centuries-old city.
Admire the iconic orange terracotta roofs, contrasting the majestic gothic and Romanesque architecture of the cathedral. You’ll then head up to San Gimagnano, the UNESCO-site sitting on a hilltop.
The tower houses were constructed in the Middle Ages, and you’ll have plenty of time at your own leisure to check them and the local palaces, churches, etc. out!
You can’t miss out on a trip to Pisa and its iconic tower where you have to get some photos! Then walk around the Piazza dei Miracoli and check out other notable landmarks! Be prepared for plenty of walking but you won’t even notice it with so much going on.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
What Can I See in One Day in Tuscany? (With a Sample Itinerary)
Tuscany without question is one of the most beautiful and charming regions of Italy. Even is you only have one day to spend in Tuscany, you can still see some of its best attractions.
First thing to do is head out to the countryside, where the real charm of Tuscany is. Your first stop should be the medieval town of San Gimignano. With its imposing towers, narrow alleys, and beautiful churches, its a must see! Walk around town and enjoy the views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Now its time to check out the small town of Monteriggioni. Its surrounded by 13th-century walls and towers. It’s a perfect example of medieval Tuscany and is a must visit for history enthusiasts. Walk along the town walls, explore the castle and take in the views of the Tuscan countryside.
After exploring Monteriggioni head to Siena. I think this is Tuscany’s most beautiful town. Siena is a perfect example of Italian culture and art. It also has a beautiful medieval center that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the city’s narrow streets and visit the Piazza del Campo which is a Cathedral. If you have time, stop at a local trattoria and try some of the delicious Tuscan specialties, such as pici pasta or the famous bistecca alla fiorentina.
Of course one day is not enough to see everything Tuscany has to offer but this one day itinerary is a great way to hit the highlights.
What is the Best Way to do a Day Trip to Tuscany from Florence?
Getting to Tuscany from Florence is a breeze and there are several ways get there.
Guided Tours: If you’re looking for the easy button, then taking a guided tour is your best bet to see Tuscany. There are several tour operators in Florence that have day trips to Tuscany where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the beauty of the Tuscan countryside without any of the stress of planning. We have highlighted our favorite options above.
Rent a Car: If you want to explore on your own, renting a car is your best bet to explore Tuscany. Florence is well connected to Tuscany’s major cities and towns with highways, making it easy to get around. Driving through Tuscany is worth the trip with stunning views of rolling hills, vineyards and ancient towns.
Public Transportation: If you’re looking for an inexpensive option, taking a train or bus will get you to several towns and cities in Tuscany. There are several trains and buses that run between Florence and major cities like Siena, Pisa, and Lucca, allowing you to explore the region for cheap.
However you choose to get to Tuscany, the journey there is sure to be just as awesome as the destination. The beauty of Tuscany is should not be rushed so you to take in the sights of this beautiful region of Italy.
Why You Should Take a Day Trip to Tuscany
Tuscany is a region that has captured the hearts of millions of travelers for centuries and for good reason!
- The Scenery: Tuscany has some of the most stunning scenery in the world. From rolling hills covered in vineyards and olive groves to ancient towns perched on hilltops. Every corner of Tuscany is a feast for the eyes and you’ll find yourself constantly stopping to take in the views and some pictures.
- The Food: If you love Italian food then you will be in paradise in Tuscany. There are hearty soups and stews to delicious steaks and fresh pasta. You will be spoiled when it comes to dining options in Tuscany. Let’s not forget the wine! Tuscany has to some of the world’s best wineries. If you have time, taking a tour of the wineries around Tuscany is a must do!! Enjoy wines like Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vernaccia di San Gimignano. See our reviews of Tuscan cooking classes if you have the time.
- The History: With ancient towns and cities that have been standing for centuries you are surrounded by history. From the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa to the stunning Duomo in Florence. Tuscany has some of the world’s most famous landmarks. Don’t forget the countless museums, art galleries, and churches to be explored.
Sites Seen
Tour Guides
Value
The City Escape Tuscany Private Day Trip is our Editors Choice for the best Tuscany day trip from Florence.