Rome to Florence Day Trip

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A Rome to Florence day trip is definitely an amazing way to get a taste of the city and totally worth. Hop onto a fast train at Roma Termini, enjoy a pleasant 90 minutes ride and you'll find yourself in the heart of Florence.

Once there, you'll have plenty of choice for what to do and to see. You'll have a hard time to decide, among visiting famous museums, enjoying on lively squares, eating delicious food or maybe shopping for a unique goods.

Continue reading for valuable insights on train travel, must-see attractions, and unique souvenirs to bring home. We'll also share some insider tips on avoiding the tourist crowds and maximizing your Florence experience.

Should Florence capture your heart and you find yourself extending your stay, we highly recommend Casa di Chiara. This charming and elegant apartment offers all the comforts of home - we're confident you'll absolutely love it!

Taking a fast train from Rome to Florence

Taking a high-speed train is obviously the best option to get from Rome to Florence. You'll love modern and comfortable trains, that departs from both Termini Station and Tiburtina as early as 5:35am (the last one from Florence is around 10pm).

We suggest you to catch one of the earliest trains to get to Florence as early as possible. Avoid regional trains, which are slower and travel nearly 4 hours each way, making them impractical for a day trip to Florence.

Note that train the prices of train tickets rise as your date of travel get closer. That's why it's good to book them well in advance (companies release the train schedules and tickets 4-5 months in advance).

High-speed trains are the best option for your Rome to Florence travel

The easiest way to book your train tickets

Trainline is the website that allows you to compare all trains on specific date so you can choose the one that suits you best. Booking process is simple - in just few clicks, you get the ticket directly to your email (you'll have it at your fingertip - convenient when you need to show the ticket to the train staff). Plus, you can easily change them or cancel online if needed).

Tickets for the high-speed trains for your Rome to Florence day trip start from €20 one-way. Trains arrive at Firenze Santa Maria Novella (the main Florence's train station), which is only a 10-minute walk from the heart of the city.

Firenze Santa Maria Novella is where trains from Rome arrive

Take a look at these useful tips for your Rome to Florence day trip:

1. IT'S DEFINITELY WORTH - There's no way to cover all Florence has to offer in one day, but there's definitely time to see enough to make the trip worth it!
   
   
2. TAKE ONE OF THE EARLIEST TRAINS FROM ROME - Try to set out as early as possible on your Rome to Florence day trip. If you can get there at about eight or nine in the morning, you can have a full day of exploration. It’ll be tiring but worth it!
   
   
3. CHOOSE WHAT YOU WANT TO SEE AND DO - Read on to find out which are the highlights of Florence you should see and explore. You don't have to visit all of them, just pick the ones that might be of your interest and enjoy the rest of the time soaking up the atmosphere tasting delicious food and shopping.
   
   
4. YOU DON'T HAVE TO VISIT ALL - You don't have to visit any of popular museum, such as the Uffizi and Accademia. Choose instead the less-crowded, such as the Bargello, or smaller one - Orsanmichele. Or skip all the museums, and visit one of the churches, such as the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella or Basilica di San Lorenzo (both worth visiting!)
   
   

Amazing sights/museum/areas in Florence: 

The Duomo Complex

Once you reach Piazza del Duomo, you can admire Florentine's Cathedral (with stunning red-tiled cupola), the Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery of St. John. The entrance to the Cathedral is free, but lines can be long (so you can skip this step). Instead, go around and admire all the sights, while taking some amazing photos. 

It's possible to climb the cupola (91m high and 45.5m wide; made by Filippo Brunelleschi), but you need to reserve the tickets in advance (online or at the ticket office at the Ticket office - Piazza di San Giovanni 7). To climb the cupola, you need to make 463 steps, which are relatively steep (not suitable for claustrophobic). Once at the top, you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the Tuscan hills in the distance.

We recommend taking a tour, to access areas that aren't open to the public. 

Behind the Cathedral, there is Opera del Duomo Museum, a fascinating museum that explores history of the Duomo).

We recommend: This guided tour brings you the best of Duomo Complex in only 2.5 hours. You'll see the Duomo and its cupola as well as Opera del Duomo Museum (very interesting).

Piazza della Signoria (the stunning square)

The Piazza della Signoria, one of the most adorable squares of Florence, is a must when visiting the city (it's situated a short walk from the Duomo and close to the Uffizi).

Head here and enjoy capturing amazing photos from every angle and soaking up the atmosphere. The Michelangelo’s David statue adorns the entrance to the Palazzo Vecchio (the original could be seen in the Accademia).

Get inside the Palazzo Vecchio to see the first courtyard, which is completely free. For exploring a bit more and visiting the museum, you'll need to buy a ticket. For doing this consider taking a guided tour; we recommend this 75 minutes tour of the museum and mysterious stairway.

It's possible to climb the Arnolfo tower (which is 95m tall). Once the top you can enjoy amazing vistas of the city and the Duomo.

The Uffizi Gallery (the most famous one)

Even if you are not art fan, visiting the famous Uffizi Gallery could be a good choice. At this museum you'll see some of the most famous world art pieces, such as La Primavera from Sandro Botticelli or Venus of Urbino from Titian. If you decide to visit, be sure to get your tickets well in advance, to get the desired date and time slot. Opt for skip-the-line ticket to avoid waiting in line and get straight inside.

If you want to see the best of the Uffizi in just 1.5 hour, take this small-group guided tour.

The Accademia Gallery (see Michelangelo's David)

The Accademia is not a large Florence museum when compared to the Uffizi, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in its contents!

The Accademia Gallery was opened in 1784 after Michelangelo's David was moved here from Piazza della Signoria the year prior. The Accademia Gallery is the second-most visited museum in Florence, and therefore there are always big lines in front of it.

So if you plan to visit it, be sure to book your tickets well in advance - you can easily do it online.

Bargello Museum (the sculpture museum)

For those who wants to skip visiting large museums, such as the Uffizi and Accademia, but still want to explore some of Florentine fine art, the Bargello Museum would be a great choice. 

Only a short walk from Piazza della Signoria, this museum houses sculptures from the famous artists such as Michelangelo, Ghiberti and Donatello, as well as impressive porcelain, goldworks, jewels, ivory and glazed terracota works.

The museum is not crowded and you'll enjoy exploring the displays. Plus, it has a beautiful courtyard, where you'll can have a break sitting on the benches you'll find there. It's easy to buy your entry ticket on the spot (costs €10).

The Arno River (and Ponte Vecchio)

Having a stroll down the banks of Arno River is a must while visiting Florence. It's enjoyable walk with a views of the beautiful bridges and buildings along the river. And amazing opportunity for more stunning photos, whether rain or shine.

The most unusual bridge is the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge), which is always crowded with tourists (except early morning). The bridge is lined with jewelley shops, so it's great opportunity for some shopping.

Take a walk from the Ponte Vecchio along the river to Ponte Santa Trinita. This bridge is one of the best for taking unbeatable photos.

Piazza Santa Trinita

This stunning square, is another beautiful Florence spot for walking, relaxing or just taking amazing photos. The Church of Santa Trinita on the west side of the square, is another free sight of Rome, and it' so peaceful and beautiful. The square leads to the Arno River and Ponte Santa Trinita - our favourite Florentine bridge.

The column of Justice in the middle and several Gothic and Renaissance palaces makes this square beautiful. The piazza is traversed by the Via de' Tornabuoni, dotted with luxurious shops.

The Oltrarno (across the Arno river)

For visiting more authentic part of Florence, head across one of bridges, and get to Oltrarno. Walk around and explore, stumbling upon small artisan shops, goldsmiths, bookbinders and leather shops. This is where you can pick the unique souvenirs for your and the loved ones!

As you walk away from the river, the area becomes more authentic. Sit down at one of the local trattorias to taste the famous Tuscan food, such as ribollita soup or Florentine steak. Or just stop at gelato shop and get a treat yourself with a scoop of this creamy delight! We love Gelateria La Carraia (close to Ponte alla Carraia), that offers delicious gelato (affordable!).

Want to see the best of Florence in one day? Consider taking these tours:

Florence in a Day: Michelangelo's David, Uffizi guided city walking tour with Walks Italy

This walking tour of Florence, that lasts for 5 hours, brings you the very best of Florence. Your guide will take you to the Accademia Gallery and the magnificent Duomo and then through the streets and squares of Florence to adore sights and palaces. A visit to the Uffizi is also included and all of these with skip-the-line tickets. The tour starts at 9:45am close to the Duomo.

Best of Florence: Small Group Tour Skip-the-Line David & Accademia with Duomo with Walks Italy

Begin with skipping the line at the Accademia Gallery (to see Michelangelo's David), then continue to visit the Florence's Cathedral. Next, stroll the streets while visiting the spots like Piazza della Signoria and Church and Museum of Orsanmichele. This tour shows you a lot in just 3 hours.

Highlights & Hidden gems of Florence private tour with City Unscripted

This guided tour, that lasts for 2 hours, will take you to the secret corners of Florence, away from tourist crowds. You'll explore quiet streets like Via Taddea (where the author of Pinocchio was born) and see Michelangelo's Laurentian library. You can customised your tour according to your wishes (you'll receive a questionnaire after the booking). This tour is a true gem!

Florence Sightseeing Tour for Kids & Families with Raphael Tours

The whole family will enjoy this 2.5-hour tour of Florence's highlights. The guide will keep your kids engaged with interactive activities using iPads and flash cards while exploring areas such as Santa Croce, the Porcellino, Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio... The tour is suitable for kids over 5 years!

Rome to Florence day trip - completely hassle free

Leave the hassle of planning behind you and take an organised day trip to Florence. A number of tour companies offer this kind of trips and most include pick up (and drop off) from your accommodation in Rome.

If you choose one of these tours, you'll be worry-free for transport schedules, buying train tickets and getting around Florence once there. Also, it means that you'll have an expert local on hand to ask questions about the best places to eat and drink.

Travelers rave about these full-day trips from Rome to Florence:

1. Day trip from Florence to Rome (by high-speed train)

On this tour, your guide ensures everything runs smoothly throughout the journey. They'll accompany you on the train ride, and later you'll explore independently (armed with excellent tips on what to visit and where to dine). The agency takes care of booking your train tickets.

2. Florence to Rome and Vatican City day tour with Colosseum (by minivan)
This day trip from Florence takes you to explore Rome and Vatican City. You'll travel by modern minivan, first to Vatican City (exploring for 1.5 hours), then to Rome to see its highlights. Enjoy a 2-hour walking tour of the city (including a visit to the Colosseum). You'll return to Florence in the early evening hours!

3. A delightful stroll through Rome from Florence
Travel from Florence to Rome in a comfortable vehicle with your private guide. Once in Rome, you'll have ample time to explore the best of the Eternal City with your guide. You'll also have some free time. This tour promises a truly unforgettable experience!

4. Florence to Rome & Lazio day tour by high-speed train (Italia Tours)
This full-day tour takes you by train to Rome, where you'll meet a local guide and explore the city's highlights together. After the tour, choose to stay in Rome and explore on your own or head to the Lazio countryside to visit a local winery for lunch and wine tasting. Later, you'll visit Tivoli (all transfers included).

Great activities in Florence for foodies!

If you are a foodie, then joining a food tour would be a great idea. You guide will take you through the city, telling you more about sights while stopping at the best restaurants and eateries to taste classic Tuscan dishes, such as lampredotto panini, schiacciata,  hearty soups or pasta along local wines.

Travellers truly love this 3-hour tour with 10 tastings (plus wine) and this food tour exploring Sant'Ambrogio Market and Oltrarno. These could be your best memory from Florence!

2. Taking a cooking class (pasta + sauces)

Grab a rolling pin and knead some dough in this cooking class that’s all about making a fresh pasta from scratch. A local chef will demonstrate how to prepare 3 kinds of pasta (ravioli, fettuccine and tortellini) using a rolling pin and pasta cutter and sauces as well. The best part is eating what you've prepared. In the end, you'll have a cake and limoncello! You'll adore this amazing experience that lasts for 3 hours! See more great cooking classes in Florence and Tuscany!

Something completely different!

3. Bike tour of Florence with Piazzale Michelangelo4. Rafting on the Arno River (a true adventure)5. Florence hills e-bike tour (with gelato)

See the major tourist attractions of Florence during this 2-hour bike tour. You'll stop at spots such as Piazza della Signoria, the Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica and explore narrow lanes of the Oltrarno, an artisan neighbourhood of Florence. The tour also takes you up to Piazzale Michelangelo for seeing amazing view of the whole city. Choose from several departures daily!

This panoramic 2-hour ride includes the descent down the Arno River that flows through the historic centre of Florence. The river offers a truly unique perspective giving you the opportunity of taking amazing photos of the famous buildings and monuments. This is a perfect mix of activity and culture. Your guides will tell you anecdotes about the river and the city itself. An unforgettable experience!

Explore Florence hills with a lots of fun on guided 2 hour e-bike tour. Start from the heart of Florence, then follow your guide from the city to the hills. Once outside the city, immerse yourself into the sound and scents of Tuscan countryside. Pass through olive groves and small vineyards, then end this tour with tasting one of the best gelato in the city. After the tour finishes, you'll still have time to explore Florence's highlights!

If this is not your first visit to Florence, consider this activities:

6. Florence Vespa tour (Tuscan hills)7. Small group Chianti wine tasting

This Vespa tour (lasts for 6 hours) is for those who want to explore beyond Florence and maybe already explored the city. The tour takes you first to see the Church of San Miniato al Monte then ride up in the hills overlooking Florence, passing through vineyards, olive trees and onto backroads.

The adventure ends with a tasty lunch (with wine) and going back to the city. You will not forget this fabulous experience!

For those who already explored highlights of Florence, we recommend this trip to the countryside. You'll visit 12th century castle and have a fun day of learning about wine and local traditions. Of course, you'll taste the best wines and have a delicious Tuscan lunch. Transport from Florence and back is included! The tour departs at 10am, so you'll still have time to explore Florence in the afternoon!

If you are shopaholic!

Florence is a paradise for shopping. Here you'll find so many small artisanal shops offering unique products, such as leather bags, shoes, ceramics, marbled paper... Buy unique gifts to the loved ones!

Planning Your Trip to Italy

Best Food Tours in Rome

What to See in Florence

Best Food Tours in Florence

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