If you're visiting Rome and have an extra day in your itinerary, why not take a little adventure to Florence?
During my Italy travels last year, I wanted to experience as much of the country as possible, and Florence was a city I didn't want to miss. Known for its Renaissance architecture, incredible art, charming cobblestone streets, and unforgettable Italian cuisine, Florence offers a completely different experience from the energy of Rome.
The best part? You don't need to rent a car, book a flight, or change hotels. Florence is an easy day trip from Rome by high-speed train!
Here's how to plan a day trip from Rome to Florence and make the most of your time in one of Italy's most beautiful cities.
Getting from Rome to Florence by Train
Traveling from Rome to Florence by train is one of the easiest ways to explore another Italian destination.
Italy's high-speed rail services, Trenitalia Frecciarossa and Italo, connect Rome with Florence in approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes.
I recommend departing from Roma Termini and arriving at Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), which puts you within walking distance of Florence's historic city center.
Train travel tips:
Book your tickets in advance for potentially better fares.
Choose an early morning departure to maximize your time.
Book a late afternoon or evening return.
Download your train operator's app for tickets and travel updates.
Arrive at the station early enough to locate your platform.
You can compare schedules and book directly through Trenitalia or Italo.
Your Florence Day Trip Itinerary
Once you arrive at Firenze Santa Maria Novella, you're ready to explore! Florence is relatively compact, and many of its most recognizable attractions are within walking distance of one another.
Here are the stops I'd prioritize during a one-day visit.
1. Visit the Florence Cathedral (Duomo)
No trip to Florence is complete without seeing the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, commonly known as the Duomo. Its iconic terracotta-colored dome dominates the city's skyline, while the cathedral's intricate exterior features beautiful marble detailing. Take time to admire the architecture, capture photographs in Piazza del Duomo, and explore the surrounding historic streets. If you want to climb Brunelleschi's Dome, reserve a timed ticket ahead of your visit.
2. Shopping in Florence
If you’re looking for high-end fashion boutiques, then your first stop should be Via Tornabuoni. Symbol par excellence of luxury shopping, this street is the home of the big brands. Ferragamo, Cartier, Gucci, Hermès, and Cavalli are located here and their boutiques follow one another in the entire neighborhood encompassing Via della Vigna Nuova, Via del Parione and Via della Spada. As you walk around, look up and admire the ancient noble residences of Florence: Palazzo Strozzi, Palazzo Rucellai and Palazzo Corsini stand out through the streets in all their beauty.
3. Walk Across Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio is one of Florence's most famous landmarks and a must-see for first-time visitors. This medieval bridge stretches across the Arno River and is lined with jewelry shops and historic storefronts. Whether you're browsing the shops or capturing photographs overlooking the river, Ponte Vecchio is one of those places that makes Florence feel like a postcard.
4. Enjoy an Authentic Italian Lunch
One of my favorite parts of traveling through Italy is experiencing the food! Florence is known for its Tuscan cuisine, including fresh pasta, handmade ravioli, bistecca alla Fiorentina, and traditional gelato. We stopped at Schiacciateria De' Neri to get their infamous sandwiches. They’re big enough to share with two people. I chose the ‘La Rocco’ which is popular and it didn’t disappoint.
5. Visit Wine Windows and Get a Gelato
Visiting wine windows is a must! I love how their hand just reaches out with wine and you pay them. It’s very different. Check out which ones we went to. These were all walking distance of each other in the area.
To top off lunch or breakfast, you have to get a gelato from Vivoli Gelataeria. Waiting on line was worth getting my Croccantino Rum flavored gelato. They also have light bites and other sweets, too.
6. Enjoy Dinner Trattoria ZaZa
I highly recommend Trattoria ZaZa for dinner. It’s a very popular restaurant and the food with the ambiance did not disappoint. It also is a good location for group outings. For dinner, I chose Goat Cheese and Tangerine Jam and Truffle Pasta.
What to Know Before Your Florence Day Trip
Wear comfortable shoes. Florence is best explored on foot, and you'll encounter plenty of cobblestone streets.
Pack light. You won't need much for a day trip. Bring your essentials, camera, portable charger, and a small bag.
Reserve popular attractions. The Uffizi, Accademia, and Duomo Dome climb can require advance reservations.
Don't overbook your day. Florence has so much to offer. Choose a few experiences and enjoy them rather than rushing from one attraction to another.
Leave time for spontaneity. Some of the best travel memories happen when you wander into a charming boutique, discover a hidden piazza, or stop for an unexpected glass of wine.