Best Tuscany Day Trips from Rome [2024 – 2025]

If you’re searching for the best Tuscany day trips from Rome, look no further! This complete guide to visiting Tuscany when you’re based in Rome shares all you need to know when planning your trip. 

Frankly, Tuscany is a dream day trip destination from Rome. If you’re into history and culture, you can visit UNESCO sites in Tuscany to see remarkably well-preserved medieval, Renaissance, and Etruscan architecture and relics. 

Tuscany is also heaven for foodies. There’s fresh produce from the local farms, and the area is also famous for pecorino cheese production. And, of course, you can go wine tasting in Tuscany, too, sampling the likes of Vino di Nobile and Brunello di Montepulciano.

With historic hilltop towns, world-class vineyards, rolling farmland, major Italian landmarks, and some of the most famous artworks ever produced, a trip to Tuscany will always be worth the journey.

If you want to visit Tuscany from Rome, several options are available. You can drive a rental car, take a train, or book an organized tour. High-speed trains are particularly convenient, as they can whisk you away to Florence, Pisa, Orvieto, or Cortona far faster than you’d get there by car. 

Read on to find out all you should know about getting from the Italian capital to the Tuscan cities or countryside. Also covered here are the top ten places to visit, plus five of the best-organized day tours to pick from. By the end of this guide, you’ll know where you want to go in Tuscany – and can decide exactly how you will get there! Let’s get started. 

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How to Get to Tuscany from Rome

The best ways to get from Rome to Tuscany are by train, by car, or via an organized tour. High-speed rail services make taking the train the fastest way to travel to major destinations. 

If you want to head into the Tuscan countryside, however, then having your own transport will give you more freedom. So which is best will depend on where you’re headed. Here are some examples. 

Rome to Florence

By car: 3 hours and 20 minutes

By train: 1 hour and 30 minutes 

Rome to Pisa

By car: 4 hours

By train: 2 hours and 20 minutes

Rome to Siena

By car: 2 hours and 50 minutes

By train: 2 hours and 55 minutes

Pros and cons of train vs car

Train pros and cons

Pros:

• No need for navigation
• You don’t have to drive in an unfamiliar country

Cons:

• You’ll have to travel when services are timetabled
• Trains can only get you to towns and cities with rail stations
• There are frequent train strikes so you need to be on the lookoiut

Car pros and cons

Pros:

• You can go where you want, when you want
• It’s easy to access the Tuscan countryside
• I love using Discover Cars to rent a car in Italy

Learn more about Driving in Italy.

Cons:

• Driving and finding your way can be stressful
• Parking can be a problem in some places

Private transfers

You can enjoy all the pluses of traveling by car without the minus points by booking a private transfer between Rome and Tuscany. Prices and travel times vary according to your departure point and destination. 

Guided tours

If you want a no-fuss option where you don’t have to worry about how you’ll get from A to B, then booking a guided tour to Tuscany from Rome can be a great option. Organized day trips include transport.

Also covered by the cost of an organized day trip from Rome to Tuscany are the services of a local guide. This can make for a more immersive experience. You can often choose between group day trips and private tours. 

Guided tours from Rome to Tuscany typically last between 10 and 14 hours, with around 12 hours being an average duration. Destinations you can visit include Montalcino, Montepulciano, Orvieto, Pienza, Pisa, Siena, Val d’Orcia, and more. You can also book day tours to Tuscan wineries. 

Top 10 Tuscany Day Trips from Rome

San Gimignano

• Why Visit: Known for medieval architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status.
• What to Do: Wander the historic center, visit Torre Grossa, and enjoy tasting Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine.
• How to Get There: 3.5 hours by car; 2 hours and 45 minutes by train (to Poggibonsi) + local bus or taxi; or private tour.
• Insider Tip: Book a local wine tasting experience to sample Tuscany’s finest vintages.

The Historic Center of San Gimignano boasts UNESCO World Heritage Status, and is prized for its medieval architecture. It’s a hill town encircled by walls dating back to the 13th century. At the center is the triangular Piazza della Cisterna, with its well-preserved medieval buildings.

Once upon a time there were 72 towers in San Gimignano, but their number has now reduced to 14. Torre Grossa is the tallest in the so-called Town of Fine Towers. San Gimignano also has the lovely, frescoed Duomo di San Gimignano church, and offers sweeping views over Tuscany. 

Siena

• Why Visit: Known for its medieval architecture, UNESCO designation, and rich history.
• What to Do: Visit Piazza del Campo, climb Torre del Mangia, and explore Siena Cathedral.
• How to Get There: 2 hours and 50 minutes by car; 2 hours and 55 minutes by train; or private tour
• Insider Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds at Piazza del Campo.

Like San Gimignano, Siena is known for its medieval architecture, and is also UNESCO-listed. In this case the central square is shaped like a fan, with 17 historic districts extending outwards. Piazza del Campo is home to the 14th-century Torre del Mangia, and the Gothic Palazzo Pubblico, or town hall.

Cortona

• Why Visit: Known for the Diocesan and Etruscan Academy Museums and a Renaissance cathedral. 
• What to Do: Stroll around the historic center, discover the Etruscan Museum and its archaeological park, and explore the Diocesan art museum. 
• How to Get There: 2 hours and 40 minutes by car; 1 hour and 55 minutes by train; or private tour.
• Insider Tip: Many see Cortona as the most liveable walled town in Tuscany.

Cortona is known for the filming location for Under the Tuscan Sun, the 2003 comedy drama movie starring Diane Lane. The town’s attractions showcase its rich Etruscan past, and also include Roman roads, a Renaissance cathedral, and artworks at the Diocesan Museum.

Florence

• Why Visit: Iconic Italian city seen as the world capital for Renaissance architecture and art. 
• What to Do: Visit the Duomo, see Michaelangelo’s David statue at the Galleria dell’Accademia, and discover artistic masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery.
• How to Get There: 3 hours and 20 minutes by car; 1 hour and 30 minutes by train; or private tour.
• Insider Tip: Stay over if you can; there’s so much to see that a day won’t be enough.

Beautiful, world-famous Florence isn’t only the Tuscan capital. It’s also one of the world’s most important destinations for lovers of art, architecture, and the Renaissance era. Well-known museums like the Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell’Accademia are just the start. The historic center of Florence is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Montalcino

• Why Visit: Known for medieval architecture and Brunello di Montalcino wine production. I am heading there this weekend so will update you with a new article once I am back
• What to Do: Savor the breathtaking views, sample ​​Brunello di Montalcino, and visit the fairytale medieval castle.
• How to Get There: 3 hours by car; 3 hours and 30 minutes by train (to Buonconvento) + local bus or taxi; or private tour.
• Insider Tip: Montalcino red wine is made using 100% Sangiovese grapes.

If you’re into red wine, then visiting this Tuscan hill town to taste locally-made Brunello di Montalcino is an absolute must. The views from the top of the steep streets are also something to be savored, and to top it all, the medieval castle is like something from a fairytale.

Montepulciano

• Why Visit: Known for the Torre di Pulcinella clock tower; and the panoramic views from the Palazzo Comunale tower.
• What to Do: Climb the tower at Palazzo Comunale; try Montepulciano red wine; and explore the haphazard streets. 
• How to Get There: 2 hours and 30 minutes by car; 2 hours and 20 minutes by train (to Torrita di Siena)+ local bus or taxi; or private tour.
• Insider Tip: Montepulciano red wine is made using 70% Sangiovese grapes plus Canaiolo, Colorino and Mammolo.

Not to be confused with Montalcino – the other Tuscan “Monty,” Montepulciano is also known for red wine production. As well as a hilltop position, and medieval architecture. The setting, among vineyards, is spectacular, and you can revel in the views from the tower at Palazzo Comunale.

Orvieto

• Why Visit: Known for the National Archaeological Museum, underground caves, and white wine production.
• What to Do: Discover the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, see the colorful cathedral, tour the underground caves, and visit St Patrick’s Well.
• How to Get There: 1 hour and 50 minutes by car; 1 hour and 15 minutes by train; or private tour.
• Insider Tip: Don’t miss the huge underground cave network to take you back to Etruscan times.

Like Cortona, Orvieto is rich in Etruscan history, and therefore remnants of the era. It’s also a major center for wine production, including dry and semi sweet varieties. Lace, ceramics, and wrought iron are also produced in the area. It’s one of the quickest Tuscan towns to get to from Rome, which also adds to the appeal. 

Pienza

• Why Visit: Known for the cathedral, Piccolomini Palace, and as the pecorino cheese capital.
• What to Do: Visit the Diocesan Museum, see Piccolomini Palace and its roof garden, and sample the local cheese.
• How to Get There: 2 hours and 50 minutes by car; 3 hours by train (to Buonconvento) + local bus or taxi; or private tour.
• Insider Tip: The cheese festival takes place annually on the first Sunday of September.

Pope Pius II was born in Pienza, and he hired a Renaissance architect to create the ideal 15th century town. The Tuscan settlement remains a prime example of Renaissance architecture, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. If you’re in a romantic mood, look out for streets such as Via del Bacio – kiss street – and Via dell’Amore, aka love street.

Pisa

• Why Visit: Known for the leaning tower, the baptistry and the cemetery, all in Piazza dei Miracoli.
• What to Do: Photograph and climb the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, explore the Piazza dei Miracoli, and wander along the riverbank.  
• How to Get There: 4 hours by car; 2 hours and 20 minutes by train; or private tour
• Insider Tip: Pisa is easy to explore on foot and the train station is centrally located

Pisa is a pleasant, compact university city with the Arno River running through the center. The famous leaning tower is the main attraction, but Piazza dei Miracoli is also a nice place for a picnic or just to hang out, and the square is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Pisa’s centrally located train station makes it easy to travel to and from the city by rail. 

Val d’Orcia

• Why Visit: Known for the scenic landscapes that characterize the Tuscan countryside.
• What to Do: Drive along the twisting Montichiello Road, visit the vineyards, explore the hilltop towns.
• How to Get There: Pienza – 2 hours and 50 minutes by car; 3 hours by train (to Buonconvento) + local bus or taxi; or private tour.
• Insider Tip: Val d’Orcia is best visited on a road trip, or as part of an organized tour.

The landscapes of Val d’Orcia have inspired artists of all genres, and are awash with lush green hills, cypress trees, wheat fields, old farmhouses, vineyards, and charming country roads. Take a road trip around this part of Italy and you’ll see the picture postcard Tuscan countryside. You can also visit towns like Montalcino and Pienza when visiting this area. 

5 Unique Tuscany Day Trip Experiences

The top experiences in Tuscany include wine tastings, UNESCO sites, tours led by locals, a delicious lunch with breathtaking views, and more. Such as horseback riding in the Tuscan hills. To give you some ideas, here are five of the best day trips to Tuscany from Rome.

Private Tuscan wine country tour with lunch

This private tour lasts around 10 hours. As well as touring wine country, you’ll visit Montepulciano and Pienza. Sip Brunello di Montepulciano and Vino di Nobile in a wine cellar once used as an Etruscan tomb. 

Private Florence and Tuscan countryside tour

Visit both Florence and the countryside of Tuscany, without any planning required, by booking this private 12-hour tour. Marvel at the Renaissance art and architecture, see the scenic rolling hills, and visit a winery for lunch if you like (at your own expense). 

Small Group Florence and Pisa tour 

Tick off both of the big-hitting Tuscan cities with this twin center day tour. During the 12-hour trip, you’ll visit Pisa and Florence, seeing sights such as the Leaning Tower and Michelangelo’s David. Guided tours of both cities are included. 

Horseback riding and vineyard tour in Montepulciano

Take a 10-hour trip from Rome into the Tuscan Hills for walking, a vineyard tour, and wine tasting accompanied by a savory sharing platter. Do note that horseback riding is an optional part of the tour, and therefore an extra charge applies if you choose to do this. 

Pienza, Montalcino, farm lunch and winery tasting

This 13-hour tour takes in picturesque Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also stop at an organic farm for lunch, then visit Montalcino for views from the lookout tower. A tasting session at a local winery rounds off the day. 

Best Time of Year for Tuscany Day Trips

Are you wondering when to visit Tuscany for the best experience? The prime time to visit Tuscany, if you can, is during spring or fall.

Summer

In summer, the weather is hot in Florence, with daily maximums of around 84°F to 90°F (29°C to 32°C). This is too warm for some people, and the tourist areas are also crowded. 

Spring and fall

Spring and fall bring milder daily maximum temperatures of around 61°F to 79°F (16°C to 26°C) in Florence. This is more pleasant for exploring, and there will also be fewer crowds at the region’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Events during spring and fall also make these attractive times to visit. Cultural festivals are held during spring and fall, and in September, it’s wine harvest season. Generally, there are less hours of daylight during fall than spring.  

Winter

Winter in Florence means daily highs of around 52°F to 54°F (11°C to 12°C). If you’re more interested in touring historic, cultural, and artistic sites than sipping Brunello di Montepulciano in the sunshine, this could be a good time to travel to Tuscany from Rome.  Check out Italy in November, Italy in December and Florence in November.

Christmas markets are held in Florence, Siena, Montepulciano, Arezzo, Lucca, and Grosseto.

FAQs About Tuscany Day Trips from Rome

Will You Take a Tuscany Day Trip from Rome?

If you’re only going to take one day trip from Rome, then Tuscany has to be the ideal destination. It’s home to two other famous Italian cities, Florence and Pisa. The area is also filled with hilltop towns offering panoramic views over the Tuscan countryside, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

For lovers of food and wine, the region is perfect. You can sample dairy products in the pecorino cheese capital, Pienza, and sample fine Italian wines such as Brunello di Montepulciano and Vino di Nobile. Then there’s all that delicious pasta, pizza, gelato, and more. 

Whether you’re into nature, history, art, or food and wine, Tuscany is an unmissable Italian region with so much to offer every traveler.