Rome to Florence in One Day: Is It Really Worth It?

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

With high-speed trains, you can explore Florence’s iconic landmarks like the Duomo and the Uffizi, stroll historic streets, and enjoy authentic Tuscan food—all in one day.

We tried this Rome-to-Florence day trip ourselves, and it quickly became one of the most memorable parts of our Italy trip.

And if you prefer a slower pace, it’s easy to plan a relaxed Florence itinerary by choosing just a couple of must-see sights and spending the rest of the day soaking up the city’s atmosphere.

If you’re planning your itinerary or still on the fence, this guide will help you decide whether Florence deserves a spot on your day-trip list.

Explore Florence Like Never Before

Choose Your Florence Experience

How far Is Florence from Rome?

Florence is about 275 km (170 miles) north of Rome. Thanks to Italy’s high-speed trains, the journey takes as little as 90 minutes, making Florence one of the easiest day trips from Rome.

We’ve travelled this route many times on the Frecciarossa train and have never had any major problems, which is why the train is the most reliable and popular option. Driving usually takes around 3 hours. You can read the full story about our experiences taking these trains below.

👉 Get Rome to Florence train tickets easily on Trainline!

Best ways to travel from Rome to Florence: Train vs Tour

When deciding between the train and a guided tour, travel time plays a big role. Taking the high-speed train from Rome to Florence gives you flexibility and gets you there in about 1.5 hours, letting you explore at your own pace.

Guided tours from Rome, on the other hand, often take longer due to hotel pickups, group schedules, and the fact that travelling by car or bus takes around 3 hours in one direction—but they can be convenient if you prefer everything to be organized for you.

If you plan to see only Florence, we don't recommend organised tours that start from Rome, as you can do this easily on your own. Take a tour only if you plan to visit a few cities and the countryside, where you can't reach by train.

👌 Rome to Florence (and Tuscany) day tours you'll love

Pros of a Rome to Florence day trip

• 🚄 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 of doing Florence in one day

• 🕒 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!

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.

Rome to Florence by train – Our story

We’ve done the Rome to Florence (and vice versa) high-speed train journey many times and have extensive experience, which we share here.

We think these trains are a very convenient way to travel between Rome and Florence, as they take only 90 minutes, run frequently (up to three times an hour during peak times), and offer a comfortable ride.

Here are the steps, along with several tips we’ve picked up on our travels.

1. Buying train tickets for Rome to Florence travel

Our favourite place to book these tickets is the Trainline website, where you can compare all trains available for a specific date in one place, including times and prices.

So far, we’ve used Trenitalia Frecciarossa trains and loved the comfort and friendly staff. We suggest booking train tickets at least 2–3 months before your travel to get cheaper tickets and the seats you want.

Sometimes, this way we’ve grabbed business class tickets (which are more comfortable) for only €30. Italo also runs Rome-to-Florence high-speed trains with modern trains and slightly lower prices, but we haven’t tried it yet.

2. Departure from Roma Termini train station

Trains to Florence usually depart from Roma Termini, though some stop at Tiburtina. You can reach Termini by metro, taxi, or on foot if you’re staying nearby, like we were at Sophie Terrace Hotel (only a 5-minute walk away).

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.

3. Rome to Florence train journey

The high-speed train from Rome to Florence is smooth and comfortable. We love booking business class for a calmer atmosphere and extra comfort, plus snacks and drinks delivered to your seat.

Grab a window for stunning Tuscan views—or just relax, read, or enjoy music or a movie. The 90-minute journey flies by!

4. Arrival to Firenze Santa Maria Novella

Trains from Rome arrive at Firenze Santa Maria Novella, which is right at the doorstep of the historic centre.

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 away via Via del Giglio.

Taxis are available just outside the left exit. If your accommodation is nearby, you can walk, but keep in mind that navigating the streets with suitcases can be difficult.

👉 We wrote more details about train travel to Florence from Rome with useful tips in our guide.

Who should do day trip to Florence from Rome (and who shouldn’t)

Not sure if a day trip from Rome to Florence is right for you? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Great for:

• Travelers who want to see Florence’s highlights in a single day
• Art and history lovers with limited time
• Solo travellers, couples, or small groups who enjoy exploring at their own pace
• Those comfortable with a busy schedule and fast trains

Less ideal for:

• Travelers who prefer a slower pace or want to explore in depth
• Families with young children or anyone with heavy luggage
• Those who enjoy long meals, coffee breaks, or lingering in piazzas

Tip: If you fall into the “less ideal” category but still want to visit, consider an overnight stay to make the most of your time.

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:

1. Florence in a Day City Tour -  This 5-hour Walks Italy tour starts at 9:45 AM and includes skip-the-line access to the Accademia and Uffizi, plus a relaxed walk past Florence’s top landmarks.
   
   
2. Best of Florence Small Group Tour -  This 3-hour Walks Italy tour starts near the Accademia, with skip-the-line access to Michelangelo’s David, the Cathedral, and landmarks like Piazza della Signoria. Choose a 9 AM, 2:15 PM, or private tour.
   
   
3. Highlights & Hidden Gems of Florence Private Tour - This 2-hour private City Unscripted tour explores a quieter side of Florence, including hidden gems like Michelangelo’s Laurentian Library and Via Taddea. You can choose the time and customize the route to your interests.
   
   
4.  Highlights of Florence Bike Tour - Explore Florence by bike with Fat Tire Tours, starting near Piazza della Signoria. Small groups, standard or e-bikes, and departures at 9:30 AM or 4 PM let you see the city’s highlights and history.
   
   

🗺️ 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

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.

See Florence and Tuscany on a guided day tour from Rome

If you want a stress-free way to see Florence, several organised Rome to Florence day trips take care of transportation and sightseeing for you.

Many also include stops in other beautiful Tuscan towns—like Siena, San Gimignano, Montepulciano, or Pisa—and the countryside, giving you a fuller taste of the region.

Here are some of the best options for a day trip.

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

1. Florence and Tuscany Day Trip from Rome - This 12-hour day trip from Rome combines Florence and Tuscany in one day. It includes roundtrip fast train travel, a guided Florence tour, a winery visit with tasting and light lunch, and a stop in San Gimignano. Departing at 8 AM from Roma Termini, everything is arranged—just hop on the train and enjoy!
   
   
2. Private Day Trip from Rome to Tuscan Countryside - This private tour offers a hassle-free day exploring Tuscany, including Siena and San Gimignano. Enjoy hotel pick-up from Rome, a scenic drive in a deluxe van, wine and olive oil tastings, a four-course lunch, and visits to two historic towns. The tour starts at 7:30 AM and lasts about 12 hours.
   
   
3. Rome to Tuscany and Montepulciano Day Trip -  This full-day City Wonders tour is an easy, stress-free way to explore Tuscany from Rome by coach. Departing at 7:30 AM from Piazza del Popolo, visit the hill towns of Montepulciano and Pienza and enjoy a three-course lunch with local wines in a traditional vineyard cellar.
   
   
4. Florence and Pisa from Rome in a Full-Day Tour - This day trip from Rome to Florence and Pisa lets you see a lot in one day. Departing at 6:45 AM, enjoy a comfortable ride through the countryside in a cosy van, guided visits to both cities, free time to explore, lunch in Florence, and a visit to the Accademia Gallery.
   
   

Visiting Florence in a day 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 favourite 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.

Is a day trip from Rome to Florence worth it - FAQs

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