The surroundings of Florence are rich in art and culture. There are numerous charming villages, towns and places to visit, each with its own history and traditions.
The entire province of Florence is easily accessible by public transportation or by car, with a wide range of activities for all tastes and ages.
Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and golfing are enjoyed in many places near Florence, while the beautiful Tuscan hills provide a unique opportunity for nature lovers.
For food and wine enthusiasts, there is no shortage of tours and tastings of wines, olive oil, cheeses, and other typical products.
Our guide will suggest ideas on what to see and do around Florence and other cities in Tuscany, from the most famous destinations to lesser-known villages.
You can plan your visit according to your interests and needs, and discover the wonders of the province of Florence.
Places to visit near Florence
Florence is an enchanting city, and its central location in the region also makes it the ideal starting point for excursions of just a few hours or longer tours that can last a full day or several days.
Thanks to its proximity to numerous villages and towns of great historical, artistic, and cultural interest, it is possible to discover the beauty of Tuscany easily and conveniently.
This guide is designed to meet the needs of every kind of tourist, from the most cultural to the most adventurous, passing through those seeking relaxation or contact with nature.
We will discover together places such as Fiesole, Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, Lucca, the Cinque Terre, Chianti, The Mall, Certaldo, Vinci, Arezzo, Pistoia, Anghiari, Prato, the Luigi Pecci Center for Contemporary Art, San Quirico d’Orcia and Monteriggioni.
Each stop will be an opportunity to discover the history, art and culture of this unique region, but also to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Fiesole
Fiesole is a popular destination for tourists who want to discover new itineraries near Florence.
For nature lovers, there are many opportunities for hiking and biking through the picturesque Tuscan hills.
Among the many things to see in Fiesole, we recommend:
– The Roman Theater: built in the 1st century B.C. for theatrical performances, with a capacity of 3,000 spectators. The arena is surrounded by semicircular tiers of seats and a stage set overlooking the surrounding valley. Today the Roman theater is used for cultural events and theatrical performances that are scheduled during the summer.
– The Archaeological Museum: has many artifacts that testify to human settlements since prehistoric times. The museum has a large collection of Etruscan and Roman artifacts such as statues, vases, coins and jewelry.
– The Cathedral of Fiesole: dating back to the year 1028, with a Romanesque style with a bell tower crowned with Guelph battlements.
– The Villa Medicea: is a historic residence of the Medici family and is situated in the hills that give a panoramic view of Florence. Today, the Villa Medicea in Fiesole is open to the public as a museum and place of historical interest.
– Villa I Tatti: is a Renaissance mansion, famous because it was owned by art critic Bernard Berenson for more than sixty years. It is now a research center on the Italian Renaissance and contains works of art by several famous artists, including Giotto, Gentile da Fabriano, Sassetta, and Luca Signorelli.
– The Bandini Museum: contains works of art collected by the Bandini family and includes paintings, sculpture, furniture, and objets d’art from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, with works by artists such as Filippo Lippi, Giovanni Bellini, and Bartolomeo Vivarini. The museum is located in an ancient palace in the historic center of Fiesole and is an important stop for art lovers visiting the area.
– The Convent of San Francesco: This is an ancient religious complex dating from the 13th century and was an important center of Franciscan spirituality and theological studies. The main building is the church of St. Francis, with its Romanesque-Gothic facade and Renaissance frescoes inside. Today it is run by Franciscan friars and houses a religious community, as well as being a place of spirituality open to visitors. In addition, the complex is home to art exhibitions and cultural events.
For those who would like to learn more about the monuments of Fiesole, we recommend reading our article entirely dedicated to the Tuscan town.
Siena
Siena is an enchanting city located just 70 km from Florence, known for its Gothic architecture, narrow winding alleys and magnificent churches.
The city of Siena is famous for its charming medieval old town but also for the Palio, a historic horse race held twice a year in the beautiful Piazza del Campo.
Among Siena’s outstanding monuments, we recommend:
– the Duomo: with its ornate facade and wonderful mosaic floor.
– the Torre del Mangia: gives visitors a breathtaking view of the entire city.
– the Museo dell’Opera: located in Siena Cathedral, it collects works from the cathedral such as the Maestà, Duccio di Buoninsegna’s masterpiece.
Siena is a fascinating destination, rich in history, art and culture, which enchants and fascinates visitors from all over the world.
Pisa
Just 80 kilometers from Florence there is Pisa, the ancient Maritime Republic known throughout the world for its rich history.
Among the most famous sights in Pisa we recommend you see:
-The Leaning Tower of Pisa: the city’s most famous symbol and one of the architectural wonders of the world. We recommend climbing the tower to admire the panoramic view of the city.
– The Piazza del Duomo: this square is home to the Leaning Tower, the Pisa Cathedral, the Baptistery and the Monumental Cemetery. It is considered one of the most beautiful places in Italy.
– The Pisa Cathedral: the Pisa Cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque art, with a richly decorated facade and a fascinating interior.
– The Baptistery of San Giovanni: This is one of the oldest buildings in Pisa, with a majestic dome and an array of artworks inside.
– The Camposanto Monumentale: this monumental cemetery features a series of frescoes and sculptures dating back to the Middle Ages.
– Piazza dei Cavalieri: this is considered the political and cultural center of Pisa, with several historic buildings and the Church of the Knights.
– The Museo delle Sinopie: is located next to the Camposanto Monumentale and houses the sinopias (preparatory sketches) of the Camposanto frescoes.
These are just some of the most famous places to visit in Pisa, but the city also offers numerous museums, churches and palaces to explore to immerse yourself in its fascinating history and culture
Lucca
Like Pisa, Lucca is only 80 km from Florence, and is a city rich in history and art. Points of interest that you should not miss during a visit to Lucca include:
– The Walls of Lucca: the imposing medieval walls that surround the historic center of Lucca, perfect for a walk or bike ride.
– The Cathedral of San Martino: a stunning Romanesque cathedral with a beautiful facade and a richly decorated interior.
– Piazza dell’Anfiteatro: a striking circular square, built on the ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheater.
– Guinigi Tower: a medieval tower with trees on the top, giving a panoramic view of the city.
– San Michele in Foro: a Romanesque church with an impressive facade, located in one of Lucca’s main squares.
– Piazza Napoleone: the city’s main square, which hosts cultural events and concerts during the summer, such as the famous Lucca Summer Festival.
– The Pfanner Palace: a historic residence with a beautiful Baroque garden, where you can walk around and admire the sculptures.
These are just a few of the many attractions Lucca has to offer.
The city is full of treasures to discover, from churches to art galleries, from museums to noble palaces.
And don’t forget to taste the local delicacies, such as the famous buccellato and tortelli lucchesi.
San Gimignano
Less than an hour or so by car from Florence is San Gimignano, called theManhattan of the Middle Ages because of its medieval towers, which make it unique.
Here’s what not to miss during a visit to San Gimignano:
– The Towers: San Gimignano was known for its towers, which symbolized the power and wealth of the families that owned them. Today there are still 14 of the original 72 towers, which give exceptional panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.
– The Piazza del Duomo: the beating heart of the city, the Piazza del Duomo is home to the splendid Cathedral of San Gimignano, with its 54-meter-high bell tower, and the Palazzo Comunale, home to the civic museum.
– The Museo Civico: Inside the Palazzo Comunale is home to the Museo Civico, which holds valuable works of art including paintings, sculptures and frescoes.
– The Church of Sant’Agostino: one of the oldest churches in San Gimignano, with a Romanesque-Gothic facade and a beautiful cloister.
Also, we recommend strolling through the streets of the historic center, getting lost in the cobbled streets and small squares of San Gimignano.
Don’t forget to taste the typical products of San Gimignano, famous for its white wine, Vernaccia, and the typical products of Tuscan cuisine, such as cold cuts, cheeses, and olive oil.
San Gimignano is a gem not to be missed during a trip to Tuscany, which will charm you with its medieval atmosphere and timeless beauty.
Arezzo
Arezzo is a popular tourist destination for visitors interested in Tuscan history, art and culture.
It is also famous for its annual festival of the Giostra del Saracino, a traditional chivalric joust held every year in June and September.
There are many places to visit and things to see in Arezzo. Here are some suggestions:
– The Basilica of St. Francis: an important religious building with frescoes by Piero della Francesca inside.
– Piazza Grande: Arezzo’s main square, surrounded by historic buildings and dominated by the Torre del Comune.
– The Cathedral of Arezzo: a majestic cathedral located in the heart of the city, with an interior rich in works of art.
– The House of Petrarch: the house where the poet Petrarch lived for a brief period, now converted into a museum dedicated to his life and works.
– The National Archaeological Museum: a museum that preserves archaeological finds from the Arezzo area and surrounding areas.
– The Medicean Fortress: an imposing fortress built in the 16th century, which provides a splendid panoramic view of the city.
– The Church of San Domenico: a religious building that houses works of art by artists such as Cimabue and Giorgio Vasari inside.
– The Casa Vasari: the residence of the famous painter and architect Giorgio Vasari, transformed into a museum that displays some of his works.
These are just some of the places to visit in Arezzo, a city rich in history, culture and art.
Pistoia
For those who want to travel less than half an hour from Florence, we recommend beautiful Pistoia, Italian Capital of Culture 2017.
It is known for its well-preserved historic center, with Renaissance and medieval palaces, ancient churches and picturesque squares.
Pistoia is also famous for its annual flower festival, called “Chariot Day,” which takes place in the spring and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Among the sights in Pistoia, we recommend:
– The Piazza del Duomo: Pistoia’s main square, dominated by the beautiful San Zeno Cathedral and surrounded by historic buildings.
– The Cathedral of Pistoia: the cathedral of San Zeno, dating back to the 12th century, has a Romanesque facade and a series of frescoes inside.
– The Church of St. Andrew: located near the Duomo, this medieval church is known for its facade decorated with white and green marble.
– The Palace of the Bishops: a Renaissance building located opposite the cathedral, which houses the Diocesan Museum of Pistoia.
– Piazza della Sala: one of the most picturesque squares in Pistoia, where local markets are held and typical medieval houses can be admired.
– The Botanical Garden: one of the oldest botanical gardens in Italy, with a large collection of exotic and local plants.
– The Ospedale del Ceppo: an ancient medieval hospital with a facade decorated with Della Robbia majolica tiles.
– The Civic Museum: a museum displaying works of art and historical artifacts related to the city’s history.
These are just a few of the places to visit, but don’t forget that Pistoia is also known for its production of ceramics and traditional handcrafted textiles.
Definitely, a good opportunity for a souvenir or gift for loved ones.
Chianti
The Chianti area covers a large area between Florence and Siena, and is characterized by undulating hills covered with vineyards.
It is an area known for the production of controlled designation of origin (DOC) and controlled and guaranteed designation of origin (DOCG) red wine called Chianti.
Chianti is considered one of the most famous and appreciated wines in the world, and is made mainly from Sangiovese grapes, although other varieties such as Canaiolo, Colorino and Merlot may be present.
Chianti is known for its deep ruby color, its fruity and spicy aroma, and its dry and fresh flavor.
It is often paired with Tuscan cuisine, particularly Florentine steak and meat dishes.
Prato
In about twenty minutes from Florence, you can reach Prato, famous for its history, art, architecture and culture.
It is one of the oldest and most fascinating cities in Italy, with a rich historical and artistic heritage that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Prato is also known for its textile tradition and woolen cloth production, which has made the city world famous for its high quality and craftsmanship.
If you visit Prato, we recommend seeing:
– The Duomo: one of the city’s main monuments, dating back to the 13th century, with its white and green marble facade and interior decorated with frescoes by Renaissance artists such as Filippo Lippi.
– The Emperor’s Castle: an impressive medieval fortress built in the 12th century, with towers and walls still well preserved.
– The Museum of Palazzo Pretorio: located in an ancient medieval palace, it houses a collection of works of art and historical artifacts related to the history of Prato.
– The Cathedral of St. Stephen: another important church in the city, with a Romanesque facade and an interior richly decorated with frescoes and sculptures.
– Filippo Lippi’s house-museum: a small house near the church of Santa Maria delle Carceri, where the famous Renaissance painter lived and worked.
– The archaeological excavations: located in the center of the city, these excavations bring to light the remains of an ancient Roman settlement.
– The Cascine di Tavola Park: a large public park on the banks of the river of the same name, ideal for walks and outdoor picnics.
In addition, Prato is also known for its delicious Tuscan cuisine, with typical dishes such as ribollita, Florentine steak, and cantucci.
Anghiari
For those who want to take a more in-depth trip to Tuscany away from Florence, we recommend Anghiari, a charming Tuscan village located near the Umbrian border, famous for the historic battle between the Republics of Florence and Milan.
This place has been awarded the Touring Club’s prestigious Orange Flag and is part of the circuit of “Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages.”
Among the main attractions not to be missed during a visit to Anguillari are:
– The Castle of Anguillari: an imposing medieval fortress located in the historic center of the village, offering a breathtaking view of the valley below.
– The Piazza del Popolo: the beating heart of Anguillari, surrounded by ancient buildings and churches, it is the ideal place to stroll around and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the village.
– The Church of St. Michael Archangel: a jewel of Romanesque architecture, with a beautifully decorated portal and Renaissance frescoes inside.
– The Museum of the Battle of Anghiari: dedicated to the famous battle that took place near the village in 1440, it houses artifacts and historical documents related to this important event.
– The Buriano Bridge: an ancient medieval bridge located not far from Anguillari, famous for being immortalized by Leonardo da Vinci in his famous work “The Battle of Anghiari.”
Certaldo
Certaldo is a town located 40 kilometers from Florence and can be reached by car in about 50 minutes. This town is very important artistically and culturally, as it was the birthplace of the famous writer Giovanni Boccaccio.
The town originated from Etruscan-Roman encampments and played a major role in the militarized belt that protected the territory of Florence during the Middle Ages.
The castle and the town underwent considerable development due to the movement of the Via Francigena, which brought the road to touch the valley floor at the foot of Certaldo.
The most interesting part of the town is undoubtedly Certaldo Alta, where it is possible to visit a perfectly preserved typical medieval town. Strolling through its narrow streets and small, characteristic squares, you can breathe in the atmosphere of medieval times.
The main point of interest is Via Boccaccio, where the center of social life of the time and the house of the famous writer of the same name were located. One should also not forget to visit the Praetorian Palace and the mighty walls, from which one can enjoy a splendid panoramic view of the entire valley below and the towers of San Gimignano in the distance.
Certaldo is a town that grants many opportunities for recreation and culture, with numerous events taking place throughout the year, such as Mercantia, an event that attracts many tourists and is held every year in July.
In addition, the city is famous for the production of wine and oil, which can be tasted at the many wineries in the area.
Vinci
Also 42 kilometers away from Florence, Vinci is a must-see destination for anyone who loves art and history.
The town is famous for being the birthplace of one of humanity’s greatest geniuses, Leonardo da Vinci.
Here you can discover the typically medieval beauty of this Tuscan town, strolling through its streets and admiring its ancient walls.
But the real treasure of Vinci is the home of Leonardo, the artist-inventor who left an indelible mark on the history of art and science. By visiting Leonardo’s house you can immerse yourself in the artist’s life, discovering where he lived, worked and created his masterpieces. But that’s not all: in Vinci you can also visit the museum dedicated to Leonardo, where you will find reproductions of Leonardo’s machines, those inventions that revolutionized the world and still fascinate us today for their genius and beauty.
In short, Vinci is an ideal destination for all those who want to discover the beauty of Tuscany and immerse themselves in the life and art of the greatest genius in history.
The Mall Florence
For those who love shopping, just 40 kilometers from Florence is this famous luxury outlet, which features top designer brands such as Gucci, Prada, Balenciaga and others, with discount prices on clothing, accessories and home goods.
The mall, located in Leccio, is nestled in a picturesque Tuscan landscape and offers a unique shopping experience for fashion enthusiasts.
Visitors can also dine at gourmet restaurants and cafes and explore the beautiful surroundings of the Tuscan countryside.
Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre are a popular tourist destination for visitors to Florence. This coastal area of Liguria is characterized by picturesque villages suspended between sea and land, easily reached by train or car in about two hours.
One of the most charming villages is Riomaggiore, with its colorful little houses and the famous starting point of the Via dell’Amore, a footpath carved into the rock that leads to Manarola. The latter is another charming village, with colorful houses atop a cliff, ancient monuments and churches to visit, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Corniglia, situated on a cliff about three hundred meters high and inaccessible from the sea, is another village worth a visit. The small village is accessible by a brick staircase or by a single road leading from the station to the village.
Vernazza, a medieval village with quaint little alleys, colorful houses, a beautiful harbor, and ancient religious and civic monuments, is another must-see in the Cinque Terre.
Finally, Monterosso is the largest town in the area, with a very interesting historic center and the largest beach in the Cinque Terre, located in Fegina.
In any case, anyone who decides to visit the Cinque Terre will be fascinated by the beauty of these enchanted villages, their traditional architecture, and the unspoiled nature that surrounds them.
Luigi Pecci Center for Contemporary Art
The Luigi Pecci Center for Contemporary Art is a major contemporary art museum located in Prato, Tuscany, Italy. It was opened in 1988 and is named after Luigi Pecci, a Prato entrepreneur who donated the collection that gave birth to the museum.
The center hosts temporary exhibitions of internationally renowned contemporary artists, as well as exhibitions of its permanent collection, which includes works by artists such as Sol LeWitt, Joseph Kosuth, Donald Judd, and many others.
The center aims to promote the research and dissemination of contemporary art, encouraging discussion and reflection on social and cultural issues through art.
The center also organizes workshops, lectures and events related to contemporary art, thus contributing to the dissemination of artistic culture in the area.
The Luigi Pecci Center for Contemporary Art has become an important stop for contemporary art lovers visiting Tuscany.
San Quirico d’Orcia
San Quirico d’Orcia is a small town nestled in the beautiful Tuscan countryside, located in the Val d’Orcia and the province of Siena.
Despite being a town of only 2,500 inhabitants, San Quirico d’Orcia is one of the most charming places in the entire region, thanks to its unique charm and strategic location, making it a great starting point for exploring the Val d’Orcia.
The historic village of San Quirico d’Orcia is a real hidden gem, with its stone houses and small, completely pedestrian streets. Getting lost in the narrow streets of the village is the best thing to do here, to admire the purest and most characteristic part of the village and discover its most charming corners.
One of the main attractions in San Quirico d’Orcia is the Pieve dei Santi Quirico e Giulitta, also known as Collegiata di San Quirico. This large Catholic church is an example of Romanesque style on the outside and Baroque style on the inside, and was built starting in the 12th century. The church boasts a Latin cross plan with a single nave, works of art and three exterior portals, and is a place of great charm and spirituality.
But that’s not all: if you take the Via Cassia from the center of the village and drive about 6 km in a northeast direction, you can reach the famous San Quirico cypresses. This row of cypresses placed on a hillock in the locality of I Triboli is a true symbol of Tuscany, and is a must-see attraction for those visiting the area.
In short, San Quirico d’Orcia is a location that deserves to be discovered and appreciated for its beauty and authenticity. A perfect destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the nature and history of Tuscany, and have an unforgettable experience.
Monteriggioni
Monteriggioni is a medieval village situated on a hilltop within the beautiful Sienese countryside. Its location makes it an evocative and enchanting place, immersed in nature and surrounded by perfectly preserved walls.
The historic center of Monteriggioni is characterized by an almost circular shape, with a diameter of only 170 meters. Its unique charm and enveloping atmospheres transport us to another era, making us feel as if we were catapulted back in time.
The elliptical walls surrounding the 2-meter-thick village are interspersed with 15 towers and 2 gates. Walking along the two walkways is a unique experience, allowing us to admire splendid views of the Sienese countryside.
The two gateways to the city, Porta Franca and Porta Fiorentina, are located in the east and west of the borough, respectively. These gates are the main access areas to the borgo and have been expertly preserved over time, keeping their beauty and charm intact.
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, overlooking Piazza Roma, is a small church dating back to the early 13th century. Its Romanesque-style stone façade, central doorway with arch and rose window, barrel-vaulted roof, and nave with few interior ornaments make this church a place of great charm. Inside the church, we can admire two tabernacles and a painting of the Madonna by Lippo Vanni, which further enrich the beauty of this sacred place.
The church of Santa Maria a Castello is only 20 minutes away from the village and is one of the oldest places of worship in the area, having already received consecration back in 971. Over the centuries, the church has undergone numerous changes and expansions, but it has managed to keep its ancient charm intact. The church’s facade is of almost austere simplicity, but its late medieval portal and eye opening are timelessly beautiful. Once inside the church, there is a striking atmosphere, with neoclassical decorations alternating with older, more authentic elements. Among the many attractions of the church of Santa Maria a Castello, one cannot miss the two large rectangular windows, which give a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape. All in all, this church represents a place of great historical and spiritual importance, which deserves to be visited and appreciated by every visitor to the village and the surrounding area.
Monteriggioni is one of the most beautiful villages in Tuscany, a place that cannot be missed on a vacation in the region. Its beauty and unique charm allow us to immerse ourselves in the history and culture of this wonderful area.
Barberino Val d’Elsa
Barberino Val d’Elsa is a village located between Florence and Siena that boasts an ancient history and a medieval historic center.
There are numerous valuable architectural testimonies to be admired here, such as the two characteristic gateways and a dome identical to Brunelleschi’s but five times smaller.
If you are looking for a unique cultural experience, you cannot miss the Antiquarium of Sant’Appiano, a small archaeological museum that preserves some of the artifacts found in excavations in the surrounding areas. Inside the museum are alabaster funerary urns from the Hellenistic period, red-figure Attic pottery, a range of late medieval and Renaissance ceramics, and a pagan sandstone idol depicting the god Eros riding an animal.
In addition, the Pieve di Sant’Appiano in Barberino Val d’Elsa is a place of worship worth visiting. Inside the church one can admire two different Romanesque drafts, the Proto-Romanesque and a later version of the same style. On the walls of the church can be seen frescoes of the Florentine school from the last period of the 15th century and 16th-century frescoes on the vault of the bell tower and in the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament.
In short, Barberino Val d’Elsa is a place that offers many opportunities for discovery and learning for those interested in history and art. Do not hesitate to visit this village if you want to immerse yourself in Italian culture and discover a piece of our country’s ancient history.