Is a Day Trip from Rome to Florence Worth It?

If you’re wondering whether a day trip from Rome to Florence is worth it, the answer is a big YES.

While you won’t cover everything, you’ll absolutely get a feel for Florence’s charm—the art, the food, the atmosphere.

Standing in front of Botticelli’s La Primavera at the Uffizi, strolling past the Duomo, and grabbing a plate of fresh Tuscan pasta—it all hits different in person.

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

We took a Rome to Florence day trip and weren’t sure if it would feel rushed, but it ended up being one of the highlights of our entire Italy adventure.

Those fast trains (we took Frecciarossa) gets you there in under 90 minutes, and stepping off at Santa Maria Novella feels like entering a Renaissance postcard.

This Rome to Florence day trip guide walks you through:

1. Reasons for visiting Florence on a day trip
2. Smart tips to make the most of your trip
3. Top Florence sights to see in a day
4. Best food experiences in Florence
5. Florence tours perfect for day trippers
6. How to travel from Rome to Florence by fast train
7. Best organised day tours from Rome to Florence

Whether you’re building your Florence in a day itinerary or still deciding if Florence is worth a day trip from Rome, we’ve got you covered.

And if Florence steals your heart—as it often does—and you decide to stay a little longer, we highly recommend Casa di Chiara. It’s a lovely, homey apartment with everything you need for a relaxing stay. Trust us, you’ll love it just as much as we do.

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!

Key reasons to visit Florence for a day

Even with just one day, Florence can completely sweep you off your feet. This small but stunning city is packed with beauty, culture, and unforgettable flavours.

Here are the top reasons why a quick trip from Rome is well worth your time:

🖼️ World-Renowned Art and History

Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, and it shows.

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.

🍝 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!

🚶‍♀️ Walkable and Compact

One of the best things about Florence is how easy it is to explore on foot. The city center is small and packed with major sights, charming piazzas, and scenic views—all within walking distance. No car or complicated transit needed.

🛍️ 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.

📸 Picture-Perfect Views

Whether you're watching the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo or snapping photos along the Arno River, Florence offers postcard-worthy views at every turn. It's a photographer’s dream.

Florence is rich, romantic, and ridiculously beautiful. Even one day gives you a true taste of the city’s magic—and leaves you wanting more.

💰 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.

🗺️ 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.

Explore the Oltrarno (across the Arno river)

No Florence day trip from Rome is complete without stepping into Oltrarno, the charming neighbourhood just across the river from the historic center.

Simply cross one of the many bridges — like Ponte Vecchio or Ponte alla Carraia — and you’ll find yourself in a maze of narrow streets lined with local trattorias, artisan workshops, goldsmiths, bookbinders, and leather shops.

This is the perfect place to hunt for unique, handmade souvenirs — something truly special to bring home for yourself or loved ones.

As you wander farther from the river, the vibe becomes even more authentic and local. Grab a seat at a cozy trattoria and try classic Tuscan dishes like ribollita, a hearty vegetable soup, or the famous bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak).

Or just treat yourself to a scoop of creamy gelato! We’re big fans of Gelateria La Carraia, near Ponte alla Carraia — it’s not only delicious but also very affordable.

👍 Want to end your Florence day with good food and local vibes? Join a sunset food tour in Oltrarno.

Best food experiences for one day in Florence

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

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.

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

• Espresso + Pastry stop - 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 - Take a guided Vespa tour from central Florence into the stunning Tuscan countryside, with scenic views and delicious food along the way. You’ll meet your guide near Ponte alle Grazie (daily at 8:20 AM or 1:00 PM)—just bring your driver’s license and be 18+. After a quick lesson, ride to a panoramic viewpoint, stop at San Miniato al Monte, then cruise peaceful country roads lined with villas, vineyards, and olive groves. The tour ends with a classic Tuscan meal at a countryside estate—think bruschetta, pasta, cheeses, and local wine. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and authentic flavors.
  

• Take foodie walk in Florence - If you want to truly experience Florence’s food scene, we highly recommend joining a food tour. One we loved was the Florence Sunset Food Tour in Oltrarno with Walks of Italy. It takes you to authentic local spots where you can sample everything from cured meats and cheeses to Tuscan wines and gelato—all while learning a bit of history behind each bite.
  
  
• Take pasta class - Prefer something hands-on? This fun 3-hour pasta-making class lets you create fresh pasta from scratch—like ravioli, fettuccine, and tortellini—under the guidance of a local chef. You'll cook, eat your creations, and finish with cake and limoncello.
  
  
• Buy foodie souvenirs - Before heading out, we always stop by Leonardo Firenze to pick up a pack of cantucci or brutti ma buoni—classic Tuscan cookies that make for the perfect sweet souvenir (or mid-travel snack). And if you’re after more gourmet goodies, don’t miss Pegna, where you’ll find everything from truffle-infused treats to beautifully packaged olive oils and pasta.
  
  

Coccoli, fried dough balls usually eaten with stracchino cheese, are the ideal nibble throughout the day

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 favorite), stroll along the Arno River, or shop for souvenirs...

1. Florence in a Day - Michelangelo's David, Uffizi guided city walking tour (Walks Italy)

This guided tour is great pick if you want to see the best of Florence in just one day (lasts for 5 hours). The guide meets you right next to the Baptistery of St. John at 9:45am and takes you on a relaxed five-hour walk around the city.

You’ll visit the Accademia and Uffizi Gallery (with skip-the-line access) and check out other top sights along the way.

2. Best of Florence - Small Group Tour with Accademia and Duomo (Walks Italy)

This guided tour of Florence covers the city's highlights in just 3 hours.

Starting near the Accademia Gallery, you’ll skip the line to see Michelangelo’s David, visit the Florence Cathedral, and stroll through the historic center—including Piazza della Signoria and Orsanmichele. Choose among two departures: 9am and 2:15pm or opt for private option.

3. Highlights & Hidden gems of Florence private tour (City Unscripted)

This Florence guided tour is a true gem. It takes you away from the usual tourist crowds to explore some off-the-beaten-path spots. You'll spend 2 hours with your private guide, wandering through quiet streets like Via Taddea (where the author of Pinocchio was born), and visiting Michelangelo’s Laurentian Library.

You can tell your guide what you’d like to explore and choose the time that works best for you.

4. Best of Florence Treasure Hunt Tour for Kids & Families (Raphael Tours)

Traveling to Florence with kids? This fun 2.5-hour walking tour is perfect for families, keeping children aged 5+ engaged with games, iPads, and flashcards. Explore highlights like Santa Croce, the Porcellino statue, Piazza della Signoria, and Ponte Vecchio—all while the kids learn and have fun.

Starting in Piazza della Signoria, it’s a relaxed, stress-free way to enjoy Florence together. Choose among several departures throughout the day.

5. Highlights of Florence Bike Tour (E-bike Upgrade Available) - Fat Tire Tours

See the best of Florence on a bike tour that covers the city's highlights. The starting point is not far from Piazza della Signoria, with departures at 9:30 AM and 4 PM. It's a great way to learn about the city's history and take in some of its gorgeous sights! Group sizes are small, and you can choose between standard bikes and e-bikes.

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!

Best way to get from Rome to Florence in a day: High-speed bullet trains

Thanks to Italy’s high-speed train network, traveling between Rome and Florence cities is fast, easy, and affordable. With journey times as short as 1.5 hours, you can leave Rome in the morning and be wandering the streets of Florence by mid-morning.

Why Take the Train from Rome to Florence?

When it comes to speed, convenience, and comfort, high-speed trains are hands-down the best way to get from Rome to Florence in a day. Forget the stress of airport transfers or long bus rides — trains like the Frecciarossa and Italo whisk you from Roma Termini to Firenze Santa Maria Novella in as little as 90 minutes.

These trains are reliable, clean, and frequent, running up to three times an hour during peak times.

Which Train to Choose: Frecciarossa vs. Italo

We usually opt for the Frecciarossa trains, operated by Trenitalia. They’re fast, modern, and offer different classes to suit all budgets. If you book in advance, you can even snag business class seats for as little as €30 — a steal considering the quality of the ride.

Italo trains are also a great alternative and often run similar routes and prices. Either way, you're getting a premium travel experience compared to other modes of transportation.

Tips for Day Trippers: Take an Early Train

If you're planning a Florence day trip from Rome, we highly recommend catching an early train, ideally around 7:00 AM. This gives you nearly a full day to explore Florence — from the Uffizi Gallery and Duomo to a relaxing stroll along the Arno River.

Return trains run late into the evening, so you can enjoy dinner in Florence before heading back to Rome.

Where to book Rome to Florence train tickets?

Our go-to platform is Trainline, a user-friendly site that lets you compare prices and schedules across different train providers. Booking is easy, and you'll receive a digital ticket you can show directly to the train staff — no need to print anything!

👉 Pro tip: Book tickets a few weeks or months in advance for the best deals and seat availability, especially during high season.

Best 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 may seem like a destination that deserves a leisurely multi-day trip, it’s absolutely possible to experience its charm in a single day — with the right guidance.

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

Taking a day tour from Rome to Florence allows you to make the most of your time, without the stress of planning or navigating unfamiliar roads.

Instead of worrying about driving, parking, or missing out on must-see sights, a tour ensures a smooth, efficient journey.

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

With an organised tour, you’ll also benefit from convenient pick-up and drop-off locations in Rome, allowing you to enjoy Tuscany without the hassle of public transportation or renting a car.

And, of course, you won’t miss out on iconic experiences, such as sampling local wines, tasting traditional Tuscan dishes, or simply soaking in the picturesque landscape.

If you're pressed for time but want to see the best of Tuscany, an organised tour is your ideal option. You'll get all the highlights, the history, and the beauty — without the effort.

Find below the best tours from Rome to Florence!

1. Florence & Tuscany Day Tour from Rome with Wine Tasting & Lunch (Italia Tours)

This full-day tour is the perfect way to explore both Florence and Tuscany in just 12 hours. It includes everything you need—roundtrip train travel from Rome to Florence, a guided walking tour of the city, a visit to a local winery with wine tasting and a light lunch, and a stop in the beautiful hilltop town of San Gimignano.

All you have to do is hop on the train—everything else is taken care of. Travelers love this experience and consistently rate it as one of their favourites in Italy. It’s an easy, fun, and delicious way to see the best of Tuscany in a day!

2. Tuscany Countryside including Wine Tasting & Lunch - Private Day Trip from Rome (Rome First Choice Trips)

3. Rome to Tuscany & Montepulciano Day Trip with Lunch & Wines

This full-day tour with City Wonders offers a fantastic and affordable way to explore Tuscany.

Departing at 7:30am from Piazza del Popolo (the heart of Rome), you'll head into the countryside to visit the charming towns of Montepulciano and Pienza—known for their beautiful views, historic streets, and relaxed vibe.

A highlight of the day is a three-course lunch with local wine pairings, served in a traditional vineyard cellar. It’s a true taste of Tuscany.

With round-trip coach travel and all logistics handled by friendly, knowledgeable guides, it’s a stress-free, great-value day out.

4. Hidden Tuscany Day Trip with Lunch and Wine Tastings From Rome

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

If you're planning a day trip from Rome to Florence, packing light and smart is key.

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!

The best time to go is during spring (April–June) or early fall (September–October), when the weather is mild and crowds are manageable. Trains run year-round, but weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends.

Driving from Rome to Florence 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).

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.

Even better, consider an organised day tour so you can relax and make the most of your time.

Final thoughts: Why Rome to Florence day trip is always worth it

No matter how many times we take the day trip to Florence from Rome, it never gets old. There’s something so special about exploring the heart of the city, filled with beauty, history, and the best food you’ll ever eat.

Even if you’re short on time, this day trip is absolutely doable—and totally worth it. In just a few hours, you can experience world-famous art, wander cobbled streets, enjoy a long lunch, and still make it back to Rome by bedtime.

Honestly, we fall in love with Florence all over again every time we go. And yes—we’re already dreaming of our next one.

Save with these special Florence deals!

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