Day Trip from Rome to Florence: Is It Worth It?

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.

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

• 🖼️ World-Renowned Art and History - Once in Florence, you can stand in front of Michelangelo’s David, explore the masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery, or simply admire the city’s incredible architecture—from the iconic red dome of the Duomo to the medieval Ponte Vecchio bridge. We especially love the sculptures scattered throughout the Piazza della Signoria as well as those from the Bargello Museum!
  
  
• 🍝 Unforgettable Tuscan Food - Florence is a dream for food lovers. Even on a short visit, you can enjoy handmade pasta, Florentine steak, fresh truffles, and the best gelato of your life. Don’t forget a glass of local Chianti to go with it! Opt for Il Vivandiere, a small bustling family-run restaurant close to Piazza di Santa Croce, serving high-quality local food. We especially love Gelateria La Carraia 🍦—a must for any gelato fan.
  
  
• 🛍️ Shopping and Local Markets - From high-end Italian leather to artisan goods and local food markets, Florence is a great place to shop. Even a short stroll through Mercato Centrale or the San Lorenzo leather market is an experience in itself. We especially love to pick up edible souvenirs, such as a pack of cantucci cookies or salami!
  
  

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 tips to make a Rome to Florence day trip worth it:

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. Choose high-speed trains - This way you’ll maximize your time, with just about 90 minutes of travel each way instead of hours on the train. 👉 Book Trains Here
   
   
4. Start early - Catching a train around 7:00–8:00 a.m. to make the most of your day in Florence and avoid feeling rushed.
   
   
5. 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.
   
   
6. 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.

Explore Florence Like Never Before

Choose Your Florence Experience

Taking the train from Rome to Florence for a day trip

Traveling from Rome to Florence is easy with high-speed trains taking about 90 minutes. Leave early (around 7 AM) to explore all day, and return in the evening.

Trains run frequently—up to three times an hour during peak times.

Here’s what the train journey from Rome to Florence looks like, so you know exactly what to expect on a day trip.

1. Buying Rome to Florence train tickets

We usually book Rome to Florence tickets online via Trainline to compare options. For fast trains, we prefer Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa—modern, smooth, and reliable.

Booking 2–3 months ahead can get business class from around €30. Italo offers similar routes, prices, and service.

2. Departure from Roma Termini train station

Trains to Florence usually depart from Roma Termini, though some stop at Tiburtina, so it’s wise to arrive at least 30 minutes early. Check your ticket for the train number (e.g., Frecciarossa 9330), watch the departure board for the platform (binario), then find your coach (carrozza) and settle in for the ride.

Nearby, we love staying at Sophie Terrace Hotel.

3. Fast train journey from Rome to Florence

The high-speed train from Rome to Florence is smooth and comfortable. On the Frecciarossa, reaching up to 300 km/h, grab a window seat for stunning Tuscan views—or just relax, read, or enjoy music and videos on your journey.

4. Arrival to firenze santa maria novella

Trains from Rome arrive at Firenze Santa Maria Novella, right in the heart of the city. The Duomo is a 10-minute walk down Via dei Banchi, Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi are along Via dei Calzaiuoli, and Basilica di San Lorenzo is about 5 minutes via Via del Giglio.

Unless you have mobility issues, taxis aren’t necessary, though they’re available just outside the left exit.

4 Best Florence guided tours for day trippers from Rome

A guided tour is a great way to see Florence’s art, architecture, and history quickly, leaving the rest of the day to explore on your own—relax in cafés, enjoy gelato at Gelateria La Carraia, stroll along the Arno, or shop for souvenirs.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

🗺️ 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)

Wondering if you should visit the Uffizi Gallery on a Rome to Florence day trip?

If you love art, it’s worth it! See masterpieces like Botticelli’s La Primavera and Caravaggio’s Medusa. The gallery can take a few hours, so book skip-the-line tickets or a guided tour to see the highlights quickly.

We loved our 1.5-hour guided tour—small group, fast entry, and lots to see. Afterward, we grabbed a schiacciata sandwich at the nearby Coin café. If time is tight, consider exploring part of the gallery or saving it for another visit. 👉 See the full story here!

👌 Our Top Pick: Masterpieces of the Renaissance Semi-Private Uffizi Gallery Tour

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

For a more relaxed museum experience on your Florence day trip, visit the Bargello Museum, tucked away near Piazza della Signoria. It features world-class Renaissance art without the crowds, including Michelangelo’s Bacchus and Donatello’s Bronze David, plus porcelain and goldwork.

Housed in a historic palace, the peaceful courtyard with wooden benches is perfect for a quiet break.

💡 Visiting tip: Tickets are €10 for adults, €2 for children, and can be bought on the spot—no advance booking needed.

Visit beautiful Orsanmichele Church and Museum (a hidden gem)

Walking from Piazza del Duomo to Piazza della Signoria, stop at Orsanmichele Church and Museum—a hidden Florence gem. In under an hour, admire the colourful ceiling frescoes, Bernardo Daddi’s Madonna and Child, and the bronze and marble sculptures of saints. 

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!

🎟️ Ticket tip: Grab a ticket for just €8 at the office on Via dei Calzaiuoli, then go around the corner to reach the entrance on Via dell’Arte della Lana.

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 for a day or longer, we never skip a walk along the Arno River.

We usually start with a gelato from our favorite spot, La Strega Nocciola, then cross the Ponte Vecchio—which is almost always crowded—before strolling toward the quieter Ponte Santa Trinita, where the view back is picture-perfect.

Rain or shine, the river and surrounding buildings are stunning—definitely a must-do on a Florence day trip from Rome.

Explore Stunning Piazza Santa Trinita

This stunning square is a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, relaxing, or snapping amazing photos, where both locals and tourists gather.

For a quiet moment, we love visiting the Church of Santa Trinita, which is free to enter. Just across, Palazzo Spini-Ferroni houses the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum, blending history with modern fashion. The square leads to the Arno River and Ponte Santa Trinita, offering fantastic views of the Ponte Vecchio.

With the Column of Justice at its center and beautiful Gothic and Renaissance palaces surrounding it, plus Via de' Tornabuoni lined with luxury shops, this piazza truly captures the charm of Florence.

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

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

If you’re not into museums, head across the Arno to Oltrarno, Florence’s artisan quarter.

Cross the Ponte Vecchio or Ponte alla Carraia and discover workshops, leather shops, goldsmiths, and cozy trattorias—perfect for unique, handmade souvenirs away from the crowds. Wander the streets, savour ribollita or a bistecca alla fiorentina, and don’t miss gelato at local favorite Gelateria La Carraia.

💡 We recommend: Exploring Oltrarno with a foodie guide to taste the best Tuscan delicacies and get an insider’s look at this charming neighbourhood.

A foodie’s guide to a Rome to Florence day trip

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 café 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 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.

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!

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.

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 tours 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’s often thought of as a multi-day destination, you can experience its charm in just one day—with the right plan.

The best way? An organised Rome to Florence day tour.

A day tour from Rome to Florence lets you enjoy Tuscany 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 can visit famous towns like Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, or Pisa, with expert guides who bring the region’s history, art, and culture to life.

Convenient Rome pick-up and drop-off means no need to rent a car or figure out public transport.

Plus, you won’t miss Tuscany’s highlights: wine tastings, traditional dishes, and breathtaking countryside views.

👇 Here are the best day 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 8AM from Roma Termini, and everything is arranged for you—just hop on the train and enjoy!
  
  

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 Rome 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 stress-free and affordable way to explore Tuscany from Rome (with round-trip coach travel and expert guides)
• 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.

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 at 6:45 AM and enjoy a comfortable ride through the countryside in a cosy 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.

Visiting Florence from Civitavecchia

Arriving by cruise ship in Civitavecchia and want to visit Florence while skipping Rome? It’s doable, but be aware that there isn’t a direct train on this route. You’ll need to:

1. Take a regional train from Civitavecchia to Roma Termini station (around 70–80 minutes; starts from €4,60). 👉 Book trains here
2. From Roma Termini, catch a high-speed train (such as Italo or Trenitalia) to Florence (about 1.5 hours; starts from €19,90) 👉 Book trains here

Many travellers successfully make this trip, but be sure to book your train tickets in advance to secure seats and get better prices. Also, make a plan of your visit with booking sights and museums ahead!

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.

Day trip from Rome to Florence - is it worth it? Conclusion...

A Rome to Florence day trip can absolutely be worth it if:

• you want a taste of Florence’s art and culture,
• you’re comfortable with a long day of travel,
• you plan efficiently and book key tickets ahead.

However, if you’re passionate about art, want a relaxed pace, or plan to explore museums in depth, an overnight stay in Florence is a better choice.

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