Day Trip from Rome to Florence (Tips + What to Expect)

Climb to the top of Florence’s iconic Duomo for breathtaking views, then step inside to admire its vast interior and stunning frescoed dome

Wondering if a day trip from Rome to Florence is worth it? Absolutely.

With fast trains, you can explore iconic sights like the Uffizi, the Duomo, and enjoy authentic Tuscan food—all in a single day. We tried it ourselves, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our Italy trip.

Whether you're planning your itinerary or still on the fence, this guide has you covered.

👉 Short on time? Jump straight to our quick planner!

This Rome to Florence day trip guide covers:

1. Reasons for visiting Florence on a day trip
2. Smart tips to make the most of your trip
3. Day trip to Florence from Rome by train
4. Florence in a day: Tours that cover it all
5. Top Florence sights to see in a day
6. Best food experiences in Florence
7. Florence tours perfect for day trippers
8. Best organised day tours from Rome to Florence/Tuscany
   
   

Top reasons to visit Florence on a day trip from Rome (or elsewhere)

Skip the long lines at the Accademia and admire the replica of Michelangelo’s David in front of Palazzo Vecchio—easier access, same iconic pose!

💰 Smart Rome to Florence day trip tips

The first time we did a day trip to Florence from Rome, we were so excited… and then totally overwhelmed.

We stepped off the train and were instantly swallowed by crowds, not really sure where to go or what to see first. We ended up wandering in circles, feeling like we were missing out on everything.

Here’s the thing: Florence is magical, but if you only have one day, you’ve got to plan a little. Trust us—it makes all the difference.

1. Book museum and sight tickets ahead -If you want to climb the Duomo, visit the Uffizi, or see Michelangelo’s David, book your tickets ahead of time. Lines can get crazy, and some places have timed entry.
   
   
2. Book guided tours ahead - A guided walking tour (see our top picks!) is also a great option if you want to hit the highlights without the stress of navigating it all yourself.
   
   
3. Don't try to see everything - That said, don’t try to pack your entire bucket list into one day. You’ll just end up rushing through everything—and that’s not the Florence experience you want.
   
   
4. Bring comfortable walking shoes—you’ll be on your feet exploring historic streets, museums, and piazzas. A small backpack with water, sunscreen, a portable phone charger, and a light jacket (especially in spring or fall) will keep you prepared.

Some of our favourite moments were the unplanned ones: wandering down quiet side streets, finding quirky little shops, or grabbing a table at a tucked-away trattoria with incredible handmade pasta.

So yes, plan your must-sees. But also leave time to just be in Florence. Slow down, look up, get a little lost. That’s when the magic really happens.

Day trip to Florence from Rome by train

Traveling from Rome to Florence is incredibly easy, thanks to high-speed trains that cover the route in just 90 minutes.

You can leave Rome in the morning and be walking the streets of Florence by mid-morning.

Trains run frequently—up to three times an hour during peak periods. For a full day of exploring, we recommend taking one of the earliest trains (around 7 AM) and returning in the late evening.

Here’s a simple guide to enjoying a smooth, stress-free train trip from Rome to Florence:

4 Best Florence guided tours for day trippers from Rome

A guided tour of Florence is a great way to make the most of your time.

You’ll get a quick dose of art, architecture, and history, then have the rest of the day to explore on your own—unwind in cafés, dine at local trattorias, grab a gelato (Gelateria La Carraia is our favourite), stroll along the Arno River, or shop for souvenirs and gifts...

👇 Here are the best guided tours for first-time visitors of Florence:

Florence in a Day - Michelangelo's David, Uffizi Guided City Walking Tour
This 5-hour guided tour by Walks Italy is perfect for seeing the best of Florence in a day. Starting at 9:45 AM by the Baptistery of St. John, the tour includes skip-the-line access to the Accademia and Uffizi Gallery, plus a relaxed walk past top city landmarks. 👉 Book Here

Best of Florence Small Group Tour with Accademia and Duomo

See Florence’s top sights in just 3 hours on this guided tour by Walks Italy. Starting near the Accademia, you’ll skip the line to see Michelangelo’s David, visit the Cathedral, and explore landmarks like Piazza della Signoria. Choose a 9 AM or 2:15 PM start, or go private. 👉 Book Here

Highlights & Hidden Gems of Florence Private Tour

This 2-hour private tour with City Unscripted shows you a quieter, local side of Florence. You'll wander peaceful streets like Via Taddea (where the author of Pinocchio was born) and check out hidden gems like Michelangelo’s Laurentian Library. You can pick the time and even customize the route to match your interests. 👉 Book Here

Highlights of Florence Bike Tour

Explore Florence’s highlights on this bike tour (with Fat Tire Tours) starting near Piazza della Signoria. With departures at 9:30 AM and 4 PM, you’ll enjoy small groups, choose between standard or e-bikes, and soak in the city’s history and sights. 👉 Book Here

🗺️ Our suggested Florence in a day itinerary/must-see sights

Explore the sights on Piazza del Duomo

No Florence day trip from Rome is complete without exploring Piazza del Duomo, the heart of the city and home to some of Florence’s most iconic landmarks.

Start by visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore — also known as the Duomo — famous for its stunning red-tiled dome designed by Brunelleschi. Entry to the cathedral itself is completely free, making it a great quick stop if you're short on time.

For a more breathtaking experience, consider climbing to the top of the dome (463 steps!) for panoramic views of the Florence skyline. Just make sure to book your ticket in advance, as spots can sell out, especially during high season.

The same goes for Giotto’s Bell Tower, located nearby — another fantastic viewpoint, though it also requires a ticket and a good bit of stair-climbing.

⚠️ A quick heads-up for claustrophobic travellers: both climbs involve tight, steep, and narrow staircases, so they may not be the best option for everyone.

Don't miss the Opera del Duomo Museum, located just behind the cathedral. It’s often overlooked by crowds but offers a fascinating look into the history, art, and architecture of the Duomo complex.

Right across from the cathedral, you’ll also find the Baptistery of St. John, one of Florence’s oldest buildings, which is open for visits and known for its beautiful bronze doors.

Best tours for visiting the Duomo complex!

Wander through Piazza della Signoria and experience Palazzo Vecchio

We love soaking up the summer vibe in Piazza della Signoria—sun, energy, and beauty all around

You'll stumble upon the Piazza della Signoria when exploring Florence, as it's set in the very heart of the city. We adore this beautiful square as you have everything here.

We love to admire the Michelangelo's David (it's replica - the real thing is at Accademia), stroll through the Michelozzo's courtyard in Palazzo Vecchio (free to enter), sit below the Loggia dei Lanzi and people watch...

Or just stroll around the square and capture photos from any angle... While there, go to the nearby Via della Condotta - many small shops and eateries...

If you want to explore the wonders of Palazzo Vecchio, you’ll need to book a ticket. And if you're after stunning views of the city, definitely climb the Arnolfo Tower—it’s 95 meters tall and absolutely worth it.

Someday, we’d love to take the tour of Palazzo Vecchio’s secret passages—it sounds so intriguing!

See world-class art at the Uffizi Gallery (we absolutely adore it)

We visited the Uffizi Gallery during our Rome to Florence day trip and loved discovering masterpieces by Botticelli and Caravaggio

Wondering if you need to visit the Uffizi Gallery on your Rome to Florence day trip?

If you're an art lover, it’s definitely worth fitting into your Florence itinerary!

Here, you’ll see world-famous masterpieces like La Primavera by Botticelli and Medusa by Caravaggio. Keep in mind that the Uffizi Gallery is one of Florence’s top attractions, and it can take a few hours to explore fully—so be sure to book skip-the-line tickets, like this one!

You might also consider booking a guided tour of the Uffizi, which lets you see the highlights quickly.

We loved our Uffizi Gallery Tour—small groups, a great guide, and fast-track entry. We got straight inside and saw a lot in just 1.5 hours! Honestly, we didn’t expect to be so impressed by the Uffizi, but it completely wowed us.

After the visit, we took a break at the Coin department store café nearby and enjoyed a delicious schiacciata sandwich—perfect after a morning of art.

If you’re short on time during your day trip from Rome to Florence, you could just explore part of the gallery or save it for another visit.

Explore the beautiful the Bargello Museum (home to world-famous sculptures)

We found the Bargello Museum’s building, made of the beautiful brown pietraforte stone, absolutely stunning

Maybe on your Florence day trip from Rome, you're looking for a more peaceful and relaxed museum experience.

If so, the Bargello Museum, tucked away on a quiet street near Piazza della Signoria, might be just what you need. It offers world-class Renaissance art — but without the crowds or high price tags.

Inside, you’ll find some incredible sculptures, including Bacchus, one of Michelangelo’s early masterpieces, and the Bronze David by Donatello. We also really enjoyed the porcelain collections and the beautifully detailed Renaissance goldwork.

The museum itself is housed in a stunning historic palace, and its peaceful courtyard is a highlight all on its own. The wooden benches in the courtyard are perfect for taking a quiet break from sightseeing.

You can buy tickets on the spot — no advance booking needed. Entry is €10 for adults and just €2 for children.

Visit beautiful Orsanmichele Church and Museum (a hidden gem)

The Orsanmichele Museum in Florence is home to impressive large sculptures of saints, making it a must-visit for art lovers

As you walk from Piazza del Duomo to Piazza della Signoria, you’ll come across another often-overlooked Florence gem — Orsanmichele Church and Museum.

It’s the perfect quick stop — you can explore both the church and museum in less than an hour. First, grab a ticket (just €8) from the office on Via dei Calzaiuoli, then head inside to admire the colorful ceiling frescoes and the stunning Madonna and Child marble tabernacle by Bernardo Daddi.

Afterward, cross the street and climb the stairs to explore an impressive collection of bronze and marble sculptures of saints. And at the very top, you’ll find the real treat — an amazing view of Florence’s skyline, perfect for snapping some unforgettable photos!

Stroll along the Arno River for the best views of Ponte Vecchio

A quiet stroll along the Arno River—one of the simplest and best ways to enjoy Florence

Whether we’re in Florence for just a day or staying a bit longer, we never skip a walk along the Arno River. It’s the perfect way to unwind, take in the stunning views, and do a bit of people-watching.

We usually start with a gelato from La Strega Nocciola (our favourite spot!), then cross the famous Ponte Vecchio—though we’ll admit, it’s always pretty crowded. From there, we love to take a leisurely stroll along the river toward Ponte Santa Trinita, our favourite bridge in Florence. It’s quieter, and the view back toward the Ponte Vecchio is absolutely picture-perfect.

No matter the weather—rain or shine—the Arno and the buildings lining it are just beautiful. If you're visiting Florence, especially on a day trip from Rome, make sure this walk is on your list. You won’t regret it.

Enjoy stunning 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 so beautiful. The piazza is traversed by the Via de' Tornabuoni, dotted with luxurious shops.

Visit one of many Florence's churches

Those not interesting in museums, Florence churches might be of interest. The good news is that you can visit them along the way, which is convenient during a day trip to Florence from Rome. Plus, some of them are completely free.

We all know the spectacular Duomo, Santa Maria del Fiore, but there are also plenty of other churches worth discovering in Florence.

Basilica di Santa Croce

Basilica di Santa Croce is in a square with the same name (about 10-15 minutes southeast of the Duomo). It's the biggest Franciscan church in the world and where some important Italians are buried (like Michelangelo and Galileo Galilei). You might like to have a guided tour here!

Basilica di Santa Maria Novella

Close to the train station, you'll see the Santa Maria Novella Basilica (from the 15th century). Inside, there's amazing artwork. The fancy outside looks just like it did when it was finished in 1470. Don't forget to see the cloisters too!

You need a ticket to go inside, which lets you see the church, cloisters, and museum (it costs 7.50 €; you can buy a ticket and audio-video guide online).

The Basilica of San Lorenzo

The Basilica of San Lorenzo (one of Florence's oldest churches) is still important for its design. It has lots of art by famous Renaissance artists (like Donatello) and is where many Medici family members are buried (in the Medici Chapels).

Other Florentine churches

Basilica di Santa Trinita is near Ponte Santa Trinita (and it's free to enter). The paintings are worth looking at. It's not too crowded and feels peaceful inside.

Near Piazzale Michelangelo, you'll find San Miniato al Monte, a pretty Romanesque Church that's worth visiting. It's from the 11th century and has beautiful artwork and design. The best part is that it's free and usually not very crowded.

Discover Oltrarno: Florence’s hidden gem across the river

No day trip from Rome to Florence is complete without a stroll through Oltrarno, the charming neighbourhood just beyond the Arno River.

Cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio or Ponte alla Carraia, and step into a world of artisan workshops, goldsmiths, leather shops, and cosy trattorias. It’s the perfect spot to find unique, handmade souvenirs — far from the tourist crowds.

Wander deeper and you’ll feel the authentic, local vibe. Stop for a plate of ribollita or a juicy bistecca alla fiorentina, or grab a scoop of creamy gelato at Gelateria La Carraia — a local favourite.

One of Oltrarno’s cosy trattorias — the perfect spot to enjoy real Tuscan food like the locals do

Best food experiences for one day in Florence

Florence is absolutely worth visiting from Rome just for the food—it's a dream destination for food lovers. Even in just one day, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy some unforgettable Tuscan flavours.

Don’t skip trying a schiacciata sandwich while in Florence — this crispy, flavourful flatbread is stuffed with Tuscan cured meats and other local goodies

Here are our recommendations for foodie ideas while on Florence day trip from Rome:

Espresso + Pastry stop
Even on a Rome to Florence day trip a stop at a cafe is a must. One of our favourite spots is Caffè Rivoire, a historic gem right on Piazza della Signoria—it’s the perfect place to sip an espresso and soak in the morning buzz of the city.

Lunch at a trattoria
If you’re planning a sit-down meal, be sure to book ahead—Florence’s best restaurants fill up fast. Two of our go-to spots are Antica Trattoria da Tito, where you can try the legendary bistecca alla fiorentina, and Da Garibaldi, known for its welcoming atmosphere and classic Tuscan dishes.

Easy midday meal
For something more casual at lunchtime, we love I' Girone De' Ghiotti, a small eatery near Piazza della Signoria serving up loaded schiacciata sandwiches (starting at around €6). These crusty, flavor-packed sandwiches are a local staple—and seriously addictive.

Sweet gelato break
No visit is complete without gelato, and Gelateria La Carraia is one of the best in town. Go for a scoop of creamy pistachio or try something different like ricotta and fig—you won’t regret it.

Vespa ride through Tuscany
Meet your guide near Ponte alle Grazie (daily at 8:20 AM or 1 PM)—just don’t forget your driver’s license (you must be 18+). After a quick lesson, you’ll cruise to scenic spots like San Miniato al Monte, then ride quiet country roads past villas, vineyards, and olive groves.

The tour ends with a delicious Tuscan meal at a countryside estate—think bruschetta, pasta, cheese, and local wine. A perfect mix of adventure, views, and local flavour! 👉 Book Here

Foodie walking tour of Florence
Skip lunch and join a foodie tour instead? We recommend this morning tour (around 3 hours) that explores the Sant'Ambrogio Market and the nearby area. You’ll nibble on coccoli, try lampredotto and a classic Tuscan soup, sample cured meats, cheeses, and much more. 👉 Book Here

Pasta Making Class
Want to make your own meal from scratch? Join this fun cooking class in Santo Spirito (just across the Arno), where you’ll make fresh pasta, cook a classic tomato sauce, and sit down to enjoy it all with your fellow cooks. Classes are offered at various times throughout the day! 👉 Book Here

Buy foodie souvenirs
If you're doing a one day trip from Rome to Florence, don't leave without picking up a few tasty souvenirs! Florence is a paradise for food lovers, and you'll find edible gifts everywhere — from cantucci cookies and artisan olive oil to salami, Tuscan cheeses, handmade pasta, pesto, and truffle-infused treats.

We love Leonardo Firenze, a local bakery known for its cantucci and brutti ma buoni. For more foodie finds, check out Mercato Centrale near Basilica di San Lorenzo — perfect for sampling and shopping like a local.

Day Trip from Rome to Florence: Pros and Cons

Thinking about doing a day trip from Rome to Florence? It’s totally doable—and definitely memorable! But like any travel plan, it has its ups and downs. Here's a quick look at the pros and cons to help you decide.

Pros:

• 🚄 Fast & Easy Travel: The high-speed train gets you from Rome to Florence in about 1.5 hours. Super convenient!
• 🍝 Amazing Food: Even with limited time, you can enjoy incredible Tuscan dishes, from fresh pasta to gelato.
• 🖼️ World-Class Art & History: See iconic sights like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Michelangelo’s David all in one day.
• 🛍️ Walkable City: Florence is compact, so it’s easy to explore the main attractions on foot.

Cons

• 🕒 Limited Time: One day isn’t enough to see everything, especially if you love museums or want to take it slow.
• 😴 Early Start, Long Day: You’ll need to leave early and return late—it can be tiring.
• 💶 Cost Adds Up: Train tickets, meals, and entrance fees can make it a pricey day trip.
• 🧭 Crowds: Florence is popular, and certain spots (like the Uffizi or Duomo) can be very crowded, especially in peak season.

Bottom line? If you're short on time but don’t want to miss Florence, a day trip is 100% worth it—especially for the food, art, and beauty. Just wear comfy shoes and plan ahead!

Day trips from Rome to Florence and the rest of Tuscany

Tuscany, with its rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval villages, is one of Italy's most iconic regions. While it might seem like a destination best explored over several days, it’s absolutely possible to experience its charm in just one—with the right guidance.

And the best way to do that? An organised tour from Rome to Florence.

A day tour lets you make the most of your time without the stress of planning or navigating unfamiliar roads. Instead of worrying about driving, parking, or missing must-see spots, a guided tour ensures a smooth, efficient journey.

You’ll have the chance to visit famous Tuscan towns like Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, or even Pisa, with expert guides who bring the region’s rich history, art, and culture to life.

With convenient pick-up and drop-off in Rome, these tours take the hassle out of travel—no need to rent a car or figure out public transport.

And of course, you won’t miss out on the best parts of Tuscany: wine tastings, traditional dishes, and the breathtaking countryside views.

On the other hand, if you plan to visit only Florence, you can easily do it on your own by booking train tickets and deciding what to do once you arrive — whether that’s joining a Florence highlights tour or booking separate tickets for sights and museums.

👇 Here are the best tours from Rome to Florence and beyond!

1. Florence and Tuscany Day Trip from Rome (with wine tasting and lunch)

This 12-hour day trip from Rome is an excellent way to experience Florence and the rest of Tuscany in just one day.

It includes roundtrip fast train travel, a guided walking tour of Florence, a winery visit with tasting and light lunch, and a stop in the scenic hilltop town of San Gimignano.

The tour departs at 8 AM from Roma Termini, and everything is arranged for you—just hop on the train and enjoy! Highly rated by travelers, it’s a fun, stress-free, and tasty way to experience the best of Tuscany in a single day. 

2. Private Day Trip from Rome to Tuscan Countryside (with wine tasting and lunch)

This private tour includes everything you need for a hassle-free exploration of Tuscany, specifically the charming towns of Siena and San Gimignano.

Enjoy hotel pick-up, a scenic drive through Tuscany in a deluxe van, visits to two historic towns, wine and olive oil tastings, and an appetizing four-course lunch. Along the way, your driver will share fascinating stories about the region!

The tour starts at 7:30 AM and lasts approximately 12 hours.

3. Rome to Tuscany and Montepulciano Day Trip (with lunch and wines)

This full-day City Wonders tour is a fun and affordable way to explore Tuscany from Rome.

Departing at 7:30 AM from Piazza del Popolo, you'll visit the charming hill towns of Montepulciano and Pienza, known for stunning views and historic charm.

The day includes a three-course lunch with local wines in a traditional vineyard cellar — a true Tuscan experience.

With round-trip coach travel and expert guides, it’s a stress-free and great-value day trip.

4. From Rome: Discover Florence and Pisa in a Full-Day Tour

This day trip from Rome to Florence and Pisa is a great way to see a lot in just one day.

You'll depart early in the morning and enjoy a comfortable ride through the countryside in a cozy van. The tour includes guided visits to both cities, free time to explore on your own, and lunch in Florence. A visit to the Accademia Gallery is also part of the itinerary.

Via della Condotta (a few step from Piazza della Signoria) hiddes many small shops and food places

🎒 What to pack for a Florence day trip & Best times to go

Pack light and smart for your day trip from Rome to Florence.

Bring comfortable walking shoes—you’ll be on your feet exploring historic streets, museums, and piazzas. A small backpack with water, sunscreen, a portable phone charger, and a light jacket (especially in spring or fall) will keep you prepared.

Don’t forget your train tickets, ID, and a camera for those iconic Duomo shots!

In our experience, the best time to go is during the low season—November to April—when the crowds are smaller, though the weather is cooler. Early March and early December are our favorite times to visit.

Trains run year-round, but weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends.

Driving from Rome to Florence (and back) in one day

Yes, you can drive from Rome to Florence and back in a day, but it’s a long trip.

The drive takes about 3–3.5 hours each way, meaning you’ll spend 6–7 hours on the road. It leaves you with limited time to explore, and parking in Florence can be tricky due to restricted traffic zones (ZTLs).

You'll need to find a paid parking lot, which should cost you around € 30-40 for a whole day.

If you're set on visiting Florence in a day, a faster and easier option is the high-speed train—it gets you there in about 1.5 hours and drops you right in the city center.

If you still want to drive from Rome to Florence and visit places along the way, we recommend renting a car through Discover Cars, where you’ll find affordable rental options.

Extend to a 2-Day Florence trip: Slow down and see more

If a single day in Florence feels rushed, consider turning your day trip from Rome into a 2-day getaway.

With more time, you can explore at a relaxed pace—visiting major sights like the Uffizi and Duomo on day one, then diving into hidden gems like Oltrarno, Boboli Gardens, or local artisan shops on day two.

Staying overnight also lets you experience Florence after the crowds leave—enjoy a sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo, have a leisurely Tuscan dinner, and soak up the city’s charm in the evening.

Where to stay? Look for centrally located hotels or B&Bs near Santa Maria Novella station for easy arrival and departure. For something more atmospheric, try a boutique stay in the historic center or the quieter Oltrarno district.

FAQs About Rome to Florence Day Trips

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