Day Trips From Florence For Tuscany First Timers

First timers to Tuscany are in for a treat. This dreamy part of central Italy is more beautiful  than the photographs, more historically rich than you can imagine and more culturally engaging than most other places in the world. So full of character, this region is like a selection box of chocolates; so much to choose from and each and every experience different and memorable. Florence is probably the best spot in which to be based and when it comes to day trips in the surrounding area you will be spoilt for choice. 

Before you head off on your Tuscan adventure, it is good to give yourself a head start on finding out what’s what in the area. From history to culture and food to wine, we cover the main things for you here.

Historical Highlights

From the Medici villas to the grand cathedrals, and from the diverse architectural styles to the charming old towns, Tuscany has something for every history buff.

Pisa

You really can’t leave Tuscany without visiting Pisa, and the great news is that it can be easily done as one of your day trips from Florence. Dating back to the twelfth century, the building is now leaning more than a metre from the perpendicular, thanks to local subsidence. Climb to the top and the views are stunning.

Siena

Emanating art and history from every pore, this city is almost fairy-tale in its aesthetic. Warm terracotta coloured buildings surround the main Piazza del Campo, where locals and tourists come to soak up the sun, enjoy a drink or two or climb the Torre del Mangia.

San Gimignano

Famous for the 14 towers that you can’t help but notice before anything else, this Etruscan town is a Tuscan gem. It is a popular destination for day trips from Florence, as it is a quintessential example of a Chianti hilltop town. 

Cultural Insight

Culture in Italy is strong; so strong that wherever you go on day trips from Florenceyou feel it everywhere. People are proud of their heritage, and family and community are the foundations of every part of life. The people in Tuscany are particularly welcoming, so open your mind and when you’re invited to taste or are offered a glass of wine, take it! Food is the way the Italians express love and they always want visitors to feel at home. 

Fabulous Food

The food of Italy is something to behold. While we’re familiar with many staple Italian dishes in our own countries, eating the regional variations on home soil is a whole different experience. The perfect growing conditions, the climate and the passion the people have for cooking mean that the culinary delights associated with Italy are vast. Dishes are intrinsically linked to tradition and culture and the way Italians treat their shopping, cooking and eating is really very special. On any excursion or tour in Italy, a meal is bound to take centre stage on the day.

Wonderful Wine

Wine and Italy go hand in hand. and the fact that there are more than a million vineyards in the country is no coincidence. The people here have mastered the technique of making good wine, capitalising on the weather and the fertile soils to make viniculture part of the fabric of society.

Tuscan wines are among the best, and whether you drink the local house wine or a bottle of the famous Chianti, you’re in for a memorable experience. There are many vineyards that offer tastings and make good day trips from Florence too. 

If you are motivated to visit this stunning part of Italy and to enjoy some day trips from Florence, make sure you book with a reputable travel specialist. They will employ expert guides to help you make the most of your time in the region, which is definitely what you want as a first timer.

Author Plate

Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable tours and excursions around Italy including the best day trips from Florence. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.