Tuscany is massive, diverse, and stunning. It's almost impossible to explore everything it offers within a day, but we'll try our best to capture its essence within 24 hours. From timeless mountains to calming islands and beautiful monuments, this is your guide to the best things to do on a Rome to Tuscany day trip.
Why Take a Rome to Tuscany Day Trip?
- Tuscany is a magnificent Italian region home to diverse natural and manmade attractions.
- It has something for everyone: wine buffs can enjoy authentic Tuscan wine, mountain lovers can trek various mountain paths, and cyclists can ride the adventure down the region's rolling hills.
- Art is an indispensable part of Tuscany. It has among the greatest repositories of artwork in the world.
- Tuscany's history is inspirational. Countless monuments in Siena and the Garfagnana and the Mid Serchio Valley pay homage to the region's glorious past.
- Locals in Tuscany are welcoming and can help you locate the best restaurants, cafès and pizzerias. Ask away!
- There are multiple ways to quickly reach Tuscany from Rome.
Rome to Tuscany Day Trip: At A Glance
Distance from Rome: 279 km or 173 miles
Travel Time: 2 hours 58 minutes
Best Time To Visit: April to June and September to October
Modes of Transportation: Trains, buses, cars and flight
Approx Budget: About €121
Spring (March to May) - Average Temperature: 18°C to 20°C. April is among the wettest months in Tuscany.
Summer (June to August) - Average Temperature: 28°C to 31°C. July is the hottest month in Tuscany.
Autumn (September to November) - Average Temperature: 16°C to 20°C
Winter (December to February) - Average Temperature: 8°C to 11°C
By Train - Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes. Stations: Roma Termini to Firenze S.M.N.
By Bus - Travel Time: 3 hours 15 minutes. Stations: Roma, Autostazione Tiburtina to Florence, Villa Costanza
By Car - Travel Time: 2 hours 53 minutes
By Flight - Travel Time: 55 minutes
- Go truffle-hunting in the streets of San Miniato.
- Enjoy unbelievable views over Lago Trasimeno in the ancient town of Cortona.
- Head to La Verna, the 13th-century mountain retreat of St. Francis of Assisi.
- See the finest art collections in The Uffizi in Florence.
- Discover the secret to the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Tuscany is an excellent shopping destination in Italy. It's the centre of hand-crafted items and local food products. You can buy alabaster, knives, wool, and ceramics in different regions in Tuscany. Food products like biscuits, oil, and wine are also top of shoppers. Here are a few best shops to shop in Tuscany:
Tuscany experiences all kinds of weather. Summers can be hot, but winters can be bone-chilling. Mix warm and winter clothing to ensure you enjoy a comfortable stay.
- Jackets are mandatory if you're travelling in winter
- Shorts and t-shirts should do the trick in summers
- Light cotton summer dresses
- Shoes if you're heading in the monsoon
- Sunscreen and sunglasses for summers
- April to June and September to October are crowded times in Tuscany. Ensure you book your tickets early to save money.
- Travel in the off-season to grab the best deals on accommodation and transport.
- Cash is necessary as some local stores charge a fee on digital payments.
- English isn't the main language in Tuscany. Download a translator app to converse with locals.
- Public transport is the best way to get around in Tuscany. You can save a substantial amount of money.
- Follow the dress code when you're visiting churches and museums in Tuscany.
- The streets of Tuscany are extremely lively and the best place to experience authentic Italy.
Tuscany's popular dishes are a dream for foodies. We've listed some foods you must try on a Rome to Tuscany day trip.
- Bistecca alla fiorentina
- Fettunta
- Acquacotta
- Pappa al pomodoro
- Potato tortelli
Getting to Tuscany from Rome
By Car/Taxi
Travel time: 3 hours
Timings: Available 24 hours
Price: €350 to €500
Where to book: Kiwi Taxi, Get Transfer
Top things to do on a Rome to Tuscany Day Trip
1. Visit Pienza
Historic town
The birthplace of Enea Silvio Piccolomini, aka Pope Pius II, Pienza is a beautiful Tuscan town perched on a hill and home to amazing architecture. Stroll through the romantic alleys and enjoy the locally produced wines on your visit to Pienza.
Dates: April to October is the best time to visit Pienza.
Entry: Free
2. Marvel at Renaissance architecture in Montepulciano
Mediaeval town
Florence and Siena hog the limelight, but Montepulciano is also worth visiting. Buildings and monuments in the mediaeval town provide a glimpse into Renaissance architecture. You'll also find several family-owned shops and restaurants that serve some of the best red wine in Italy.
Dates: April to October
Entry: Free
3. Temple of San Biagio in Montepulciano
Catholic Church
Built between 1518 and 1548, the Temple of San Biagio in Montepulciano is a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance architecture. It was built on the designs of Antonio da Sangallo, the Elder, and has a fresco of the Enthroned Madonna and Child, known as the Madonna of San Biagio, on one wall.
Dates: All year round
Entry: Ticketed
4. Truffle hunting in San Miniato
Town
You'll find truffles everywhere in Tuscany, but San Miniato is famous as a truffle centre. The small town also provides gorgeous views of the lower Arno Valley. Stay in Hotel Miravalle, and you'll be staring right at San Miniato Cathedral, located in the heart of the town.
Dates: August to November is the best time to visit San Miniato.
Entry: Free
5. Relive history at the Uffizi Gallery
Art museum
The Uffizi Gallery, designed by Giorgio Vasari, contains some of the best works from the Italian Renaissance. Witness masterpieces from Giotto, Simone Martini, Filippo Lippi, Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio. You'll also find ancient Roman copies of lost Greek sculptures inside the Uffizi.
Dates: All year round
Entry: Ticketed
6. Explore Arezzo
Historic town
Arezzo is all about art museums and historical monuments. Piero della Francesca fresco cycle, containing the San Francesco Basilica, is a must-visit to relive Renaissance art. If time permits, also explore the other top sites in Arezzo.
Dates: February, May, and December are the busiest months in Arezzo.
Entry: Free
7. Roam the streets of San Gimignano
Hill town
Twenty-five miles from Florence lies San Gimignano, a quiet hill town famous for its mediaeval towers and buzzing streets. Piazza della Cisterna, in the centre of the town, provides a thorough view of the surrounding towers. Standing at 200 feet, City Hall is San Gimignano's tallest tower and the only one you can climb.
Dates: Visit San Gimignano in July and August to explore it peacefully.
Entry: Free
8. Decode the Leaning Tower of Pisa's mystery
Historical tower
Remarkable, iconic, and unique, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of Italy's treasures. It is located in Pisa and is a testament to amazing mediaeval engineering. The tower is also among the tallest bell towers in Europe.
Dates: April and May is the best time for a budget trip to Pisa.
Entry: Ticketed
9. Go wine tasting in Chianti
Vineyards
Wine tasting is a popular activity in Italy. Chianti, a small Tuscan town a few hours away from Florence, should be part of your itinerary if you want to enjoy the best wines in Tuscany. Sip your favourite drink whilst enjoying Chianti's scenery.
Dates: April to May and September to October is the best time to visit Chianti.
Entry: Free
More Things to do on a Rome to Tuscany Day Trip
- Relax and unwind on the beaches on Elba island.
- Ride a Vespa through the beautiful Tuscan countryside. A road trip from Florence to the Chianti countryside is especially popular among tourists.
- Visit the picturesque Val d'Orcia, or Orcia Valley, in Southern Tuscany. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Head to a Serie A game and cheer on Tuscan teams like Fiorentina (Florence) and Empoli.
- Learn to live the Tuscan way in Monteriggioni, Pienza, and Pitigliano villages.
Things to See Near Tuscany
If you still have time after exploring Tuscany, visit these nearby destinations to add more memories to your trip.
1. Giglio
Island
Giglio is an untouched island home to peaceful beaches and activities like mountain hiking and water sports.
Distance: 214.8 km or 3 hours 58 minutes
2. Bagno Vignoni
Village
Need a spa? Head to Bagno Vignoni, a small village having multiple natural hot springs. There's no charge for using these hot springs.
Distance: 119.5 km or 1 hour 52 minutes
3. Sansone Beach
Beach
Sansone Beach is blessed with unique cliffs and crystal clear water. It is less crowded than other beaches near Tuscany, allowing you to enjoy a pleasant time.
Distance: 195.3 km or 3 hours 33 minutes
4. Siena
City
Time flows slowly in Siena. The city is flooded with mediaeval buildings that reveal its marvellous history.
Distance: 73 km to 1 hour 4 minutes
Best Places to Eat in Tuscany
Every city and region in Italy is a foodies paradise. Tuscany is no different. The region has some of the best restaurants serving unique dishes that'll never leave you.
1. Piccolo Principe
Italian
If you're around Lucca, don't miss having a meal in Piccolo Principe. The restaurant is located on the fifth floor of the Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte and has two Michelin stars to prove its reputation. Enjoy caviar and yoghurt, local lamb with chicory, peppers and coffee, or fresh pasta and risottos.
Best Dishes: Scallops with turnip, Risottos, Local lamb with chicory
Price for two: It depends on what you order. The Tasting Menu "Il mare" costs €170.
Address: Piazza Giacomo Puccini, 1, 55049 Viareggio LU, Italy
2. Ristorante Caino
Italian
Ristorante Caino began as a wine retail business but has developed a delicious two-star Michelin cuisine. The restaurant focuses on traditional Tuscan dishes having a new perspective.
Best Dishes: Roasted veal tongue sandwich, Saffron potatoes and capers, Hare with pumpkin cream and foie gras
Price for two: It depends on what you order.
Address: Via della Chiesa, 4, 58014 Montemerano GR, Italy
3. Osteria Pizzeria La Piana
Italian and Tuscan
This amazing restaurant pays tribute to Siena's famous annual horse race whilst serving the area's best Italian, Tuscan, and Mediterranean dishes. Local specialties are a must-try at the Osteria La Piana.
Best Dishes: Pici con cinghiale, Pizza, Pasta
Price for two: Under €50
Address: Via Camollia, 122, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
4. La Taverna di San Giuseppe
Italian and Mediterranean
La Taverna di San Giuseppe offers a unique space that once served as an Etruscan wine cellar and a mediaeval chapel. The restaurant is popular among locals for its Italian and Mediterranean dishes.
Best Dishes: Pasta, Chianina steak, Cinghiale (wild boar)
Price for two: €100 to €180
Address: Via Giovanni Duprè, 132, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
Best Places to Shop in Tuscany
1. The Mall
Things to buy: Designer clothes, Jewellery, Shoes
Address: Via Europa, 8, 50066 Leccio FI, Italy
Timings: 10 AM to 7:30 PM (Everyday)
2. Il Mercato di Forte dei Marmi
Things to buy: Tableware, bags, shoes
Address: Piazza Guglielmo Marconi, 55042 Forte dei Marmi LU, Italy
Timings: 8 AM to 1:30 PM (Wednesday and Sunday)
3. Luisaviaroma
Things to buy: Clothes, Accessories, Jewellery
Address: Via Roma, 19/21/r, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Timings: 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM (Everyday)
4. Central Market
Things to buy: Clothes, Necklaces, Pots
Address: Piazza del Mercato Centrale, Via dell'Ariento, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Timings: 9 AM to 12 AM
Best Places to Stay in Tuscany
Accommodation cost is one of the reasons why Tuscany makes an excellent destination. From small inns to budget hotels and luxury suites, it offers several types of accommodations.
Budget Hotels
If you're planning a day trip to Tuscany from Rome, budget hotels make a lot of sense. You'll find multiple affordable options that will help you save more whilst providing amazing sights of various cities and towns in the region.
Hotel David: This three-star hotel offers all the amenities you need to enjoy a peaceful stay. It has existed for over 60 years and allows guests to quickly cover all the attractions in Florence.
Price for 2/night: €171
B&B Hotel Firenze City Center: A stay at the B&B Hotel Firenze City Center helps you save money and enjoy beautiful cityscape views. The budget hotel is also close to most attractions in Florence.
Price for 2/night: €72
PLUS Florence: From an outdoor pool to a fitness centre, PLUS Florence makes you feel at home. The hotel staff is helpful, often going out of their way to ensure guests have a pleasant time.
Price for 2/night: €70
Hotel Acquamarina: If you're visiting Portoferraio, Hotel Acquamarina is a possible stay option. The hotel offers various amenities like a minibar, refrigerator, and air conditioning to ensure you have a pleasant stay.
Price for 2/night: €86
Mid Range Hotels
Tuscany is also home to several mid-range hotels that come with additional amenities that add further comfort and convenience to your stay. Here are some of our picks.
Hotel Romagna: Hotel Romagna is among the places you can consider for a budget stay in Florence. It is close to the city's most famous attractions and has all the amenities you need to enjoy your stay.
Price for 2/night: €114
Flor in Florence: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers great views of the Duomo. The rooms are comfortable and decorated with Florentine art.
Price for 2/night: €142
Hotel Laurus al Duomo Firenze: This hotel was recently refurbished and features stunning architecture and luxurious amenities. Some features that set this hotel apart include an outdoor pool, spa, and concierge service.
Price for 2/night: €168
Luxury Hotels
With a bigger pocket, you can enjoy a luxurious stay in the many world-class hotels in Tuscany. Scroll down to find the best luxury hotels in the region.
Four Seasons Hotel Firenze: This beautiful five-star hotel epitomises luxury. The hotel's interior and exterior are designed to pay tribute to its rich history. The hotel also has a Michelin-star restaurant and a locally-inspired spa.
Price for 2/night: €1110
St. Regis Florence: This five-star hotel is located in the heart of Florence, allowing you to conveniently explore the city's main attractions like the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery. It has welcomed tourists since the 18th century and offers every luxury you can imagine.
Price for 2/night: €1009
Hotel Savoy: This five-star hotel has intimate suites that make you feel good. The interior combines contemporary style and Florentine heritage, with sophistication on display everywhere. It also has beautiful gardens and a state-of-the-art fitness centre.
Price for 2/night: €938
More Day Trips from Rome
Rome to Florence
Rome to Amalfi
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rome to Tuscany Day Trip
There are many ways to reach Tuscany from Rome. You can go from Rome to Tuscany by car, bus, train or flight.
There's no shortage of things to do on a day trip from Rome to Tuscany. You can explore beautiful Siena, go wine tasting in Chianti, and explore the historic town of Arezzo.
You can reach Rome to Tuscany in several ways. The time taken to reach Tuscany from Rome varies depending on your mode of transportation. A flight from Rome to Tuscany takes 55 minutes.
Piccolo Principe, Osteria Pizzeria La Piana, and La Taverna di San Giuseppe are among the best places to eat on a day trip from Rome to Tuscany.
Tuscany offers the full suite of accommodation options. The choice depends on your budget. B&B Hotel Firenze City Center, Hotel Acquamarina, and St. Regis Florence are a few best places to stay in Tuscany.
The best way to reach Tuscany from Rome is via flight and car, although they can be costly.
Tuscany is a beautiful region in Italy. From massive mountains to beautiful islands and historic cities, a trip to Tuscany will soothe your soul like a few others.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, the streets of San Gimignano, and the Temple of San Biagio in Montepulciano are among the best things to experience near Tuscany.