Musement shares some ideas for heading out of the city to enjoy the enchanting surroundings of Florence.
The Cradle of the Renaissance never ceases to amaze with its beauty and fascinate with its history. There are so many things to see and do in Florence, whether it’s your first visit or whether you’re returning after having made a deep connection with the city of the Medici. Fascination and beauty don’t stop within the city walls: the Tuscan countryside, the nearby towns, and regions offer plenty to see and explore in one day so as not to distract attention from your main destination.
Here’s a look at some day trip ideas from Florence, in case you’re looking to get out of the city for a bit.
1. Go cycling
The bicycle is an ecological, fun, fast, active and adventurous way to explore. To immerse yourself in nature, take a bike tour in the Tuscan countryside. Choose between a more suitable itinerary for families that arrives at the magnificent Sanctuary of Montesenario, in the famous forest of the Nature Reserve, and a more advance route that includes climbs and a tour of the city.
2. Nearby cities and local terroir
Pisa, San Gimignano, Siena, Chianti… all unmissable locales that boast a world-famous gastronomic heritage. Combine the architectural and historical beauties of Pisa and Siena with lunch in a wine estate complete with some Chianti, and the wonders of San Gimignano and Monteriggioni with local delicacies.
3. Visit a neighboring region
Tuscany is wonderful, yet Umbria and Liguria, two regions that border Tuscany, are no less striking and well worth a visit. Cities like Assisi and Perugia are easy to reach...start in Cortona, a beautiful hilltop Tuscan town that is world famous for its renowned festivals and the bestseller “Under the Tuscan Sun”, then continue to Assisi, a city with a strong mystical atmosphere and then finish in the wonderful Perugia. If you want to breathe a bit of the salty air, take a trip to the Cinque Terre, a beautiful gem of Liguria. It’s also worth allotting some time for Portovenere if you’re in that part of Ligura.