best places to visit between rome and florence

Best Stops On A Rome To Florence Road Trip

Are you planning a road trip from Rome to Florence? If so, you’re in luck! This is one of the most popular routes to take for a mini-road trip in Italy. And in this guide, I’ll be sharing all the best spots to stop along the way.

I’ve listed the towns in a fairly direct route that makes the most logical sense to visit them, minimizing backtracking and maximizing sightseeing.

Whether you plan to spend several days or a week on your Rome to Florence road trip, these recommendations are sure to make your journey unforgettable. And don’t forget, you can always reverse the order of the spots I identify below and take a Florence to Rome road trip instead.

Most of the drive is on the A1. Unlike most highways, it’s relatively scenic. There are some beautiful landscapes and sights along the way, especially when you get off the highway and take the side roads to visit the towns.

Best Stops On a Rome To Florence Road Trip

Here are some of the best places to stop and visit between Rome and Florence. You’ll travel through Lazio, Umbria, the Val d’Orcia, and Tuscany.

Make Viterbo the first stop on your road trip from Rome to Florence.This medieval town is only an hour away from Rome, but it often gets overlooked by tourists.

Viterbo has a gorgeous and well-preserved medieval center. The San Pellegrino district is a particular highlight and one of the best-preserved neighborhoods in all of Italy.

During the 13th century, Viterbo served as a papal seat for 24 years. Its stunning Palazzo Papale is a must-see attraction.

Built as a refuge for popes fleeing the plague and tumultuous rivalries in Rome, the palazzo boasts a picturesque loggia that overlooks the city. The loggia was even used as the site for the first-ever papal conclave. Be sure to climb up and take a look.

Viterbo is also famous for its thermal baths. You can take a dip in a local volcanic mud bath or steam yourself in an ancient cave at Terme dei Papi.

Drive from Rome to Viterbo : 62 miles

Located in the Lazio region of Italy, the Sacred Park of Bomarzo is a one-of-a-kind garden commissioned during the 16th century by Italian nobleman Pier Francesco Orsini. 

The park is home to approximately 30 sculptures created by the renowned architect and sculptor Pirro Ligorio, who also had a hand in designing the Villa d’Este . These unique sculptures depict a range of mythical creatures, monsters, and surreal figures that are sure to capture your imagination.

Some of the most well-known sculptures in the park include a massive elephant with an obelisk on its back, a fearsome dragon, a gigantic turtle, and a house with walls that appear to be on the brink of toppling over.

Intended to inspire wonder and introspection, the park’s whimsical sculptures make it a must-visit if you want to explore one of Italy’s more offbeat attraction.

Drive from Viterbo to Bomarzo : 10 miles

Orvieto is a charming medieval town located in Umbria, and a must visit stop when driving from Rome to Florence. It offers visitors a glimpse into a rustic fairytale-like world that’s largely unchanged over the last 500 years.

Orvieto is perched high above a volcanic outcropping. It boasts a plethora of well-preserved medieval buildings that add to its unique charm.

The Corso Cavour is the main street in Orvieto. The town’s crowning jewel is its magnificent cathedral, which is one of the most ancient and beautiful churches in Italy .

Construction of the cathedral began in 1290, and it took nearly 400 years to complete. The cathedral is a breathtaking display of spires, spikes, golden mosaics, statuary, stained glass, and black and white striped marble, making it a true marvel of theatricality.

Inside, the highlight is the Chapel of San Brizio. It boasts one of the Renaissance’s greatest fresco cycles by Luca Signorelli. These frescoes depict various religious themes such as temptation, damnation, and salvation, and are truly awe-inspiring to behold.

For more information, you can check out my one day in Orvieto itinerary and my guide to Orvieto Cathedral .

• Drive from Bomarzo to Orvieto : 20 miles
• Things To Do In Orvieto : 2.5 hour guided private walking tour ,  guided walking tour  of underground Orvieto

Civita di Bagnoregio

Civita di Bagnoregio is definitely one of the most enchanting and surreal hill towns in Italy. The town has managed to escape modernity and is frozen in time, which adds to its surreal vibe and fantastical setting.

The town sits on a tufa hilltop in a vast canyon and can only be reached via a dramatic cantilevered bridge that rises steeply to meet the village walls. This bridge is quite a sight to behold and is the perfect photo spot.

Once you’re inside the village, there’s just one main street, a couple of cafes, and some quaint shops. You can wander aimlessly down charming lanes, taking in the beauty of the town.

Everywhere you look, flowers are festooned on every nearly every inch of space. Take a seat on the steps of San Donato Church and soak in the town’s beauty.

If you’re really pressed for time, you could do both Orvieto and Civita in one day. Here’s my guide to visiting Civita di Bagnoregio .

• Drive from Orvieto to Civita di Bagnoregio : 30 miles
• Things to do : 1.5 walking tour

Assisi is a real gem of a town, nestled on top of Mount Subasio in Umbria. The entire historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Despite its small size, Assisi is packed full of culture and history. You’ll find awe-inspiring Roman ruins, frescoed churches, sun-bleached piazzas, and a rugged fortress with sweeping views.

Assisi is that the birthplace of Saint Francis, the medieval monk who is revered as Italy’s most beloved penitent saint. His legacy lives on in the town, and visitors can learn all about his story and teachings.

The lively Piazza del Comune is the heart of Assisi. It’s a hub for some of the town’s top attractions, like the Temple of Minerva, the Roman Forum ruins, and the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo.

But the real highlight for many visitors is the stunning artwork that can be found in the town’s churches.

The Basilica of St. Francis , in particular, has a star-studded lineup of artists who have frescoed the church’s walls, including Simone Martini, Pietro Lorenzetti, Cimabue, and possibly even Giotto and his workshop. It’s like walking through a who’s who of Early Renaissance art.

For more information, you can check out my one day in Assisi itinerary and my guide to the best things to do in Assisi .

• Drive from Civita to Assisi : 65 miles
• Things to do in Assisi : guided tour of the Basilica of St. Francis , footsteps of St. Francis tour , market tour & cooking class , truffle hunting experience , food and wine tour

Spello is another charming village in Umbria. Despite being incredibly well-preserved, it’s often overlooked by tourists. So you can appreciate its picturesque landscapes without the usual crowds.

The town is rich in history and architecture, with ancient walls and medieval buildings that can transport you back in time.

Spello’s historic center is a maze of narrow streets, stone houses, and colorful flowers. One of the most impressive sites is the Roman theater, which dates back to the 1st century B.C.

If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. The Baglioni Chapel inside is a real masterpiece, with frescoes by Pinturicchio that are considered a treasure of Umbrian art.

For more information on visiting, you can check out my one day in Spello itinerary .

• Drive from Assisi to Spello : 10 miles
• Things to do in Spello : wine and truffle tasting lunch ,  o ne hour tour at a local winery

Val d’Orcia : Pienza, Montepulciano & Montalcino

The Val d’Orcia is a stunning valley located in the heart of Tuscany. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered to be one of the most beautiful areas in Italy. From Spello, it’s about a 69 mile drive.

The valley has rolling hills, cypress trees, and picturesque medieval villages perched on hilltops. The landscape is dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and wheat fields, and the views are truly breathtaking.

The Val d’Orcia is an absolute must do stop on your Rome to Florence road trip. For more information, you can check out my 2 days in the Val d’Orcia itinerary . Some of the best towns to visit are Pienza, Montepulciano, and Montalcino.

Pienza is a small but stunning Renaissance town. It was designed by Pope Pius II in the 15th century.

Pienza is one of Italy’s most beautiful towns . It’s famous for its beautiful architecture, delicious cheeses, and charming narrow streets.

Flowers bloom everywhere, adding to the picturesque atmosphere. The streets themselves even have romantic names like Love Street and Kiss Street.

Piazza Pio II is a beautiful square and a hub for local activity. The Duomo is a stunning cathedral that showcases the town’s rich artistic heritage. Other attractions include the Piccolomini Palace, the Palazzo Communal, and the Palazzo Vescovile. 

For more information, check out my guide to the best things to do in Pienza .

Montepulciano

Montepulciano is a stunning medieval village that simply oozes charm and character. Perched on a limestone ridge and surrounded by vineyards, the town offers breathtaking views of the rolling Tuscan hills.

With its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, romantic nooks, and sun-bleached sandstone courtyards, Montepulciano is often referred to as the “Pearl of the 1500s.”

It’s one of the highest hilltop towns in the region. So, be prepared for a bit of a workout as you amble from one nostalgic wine shop to the next.

Stroll along Is Corso and marvel at the beautiful Piazza Grande. You should also check out the Duomo and the Palazzo Communale, which has a tower you can climb for stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

And of course, no visit to Montepulciano would be complete without tasting its luscious wines. The town is world-famous for its rich red Vino Nobile.

You can check out my guide to the best things to do in Montepulciano .

• Things to do in Montepulciano : guided walking tour , guided wine tour  

Montalcino is a medieval town that’s crowned by a stunning castle, surrounded by breathtaking views, and bordered by vineyards. Plus, it’s famous for its Brunello wine, which is loved all over the world.

Despite being a bit off the beaten track in Tuscany, Montalcino is a superstar wine producer. Its historic center hasn’t changed in centuries. The main square, Piazza del Popolo, has a Gothic loggia and clock tower that are just beautiful.

The town is dominated by the massive Rocca fortress, which was built in 1361 when Siena captured Montalcino from Florence. From the ramparts, you can enjoy some truly spectacular views. The fortress also has a tasting room for wine enthusiasts to sample some of the region’s best wines.

Things to do in Montalcino : wine tasting and lunch at a medieval castl e ,  3 hour tour of the Brunello vineyards

The beautiful town of Siena is one of the absolute best stops on a Rome to Florence road trip.

The burnt orange town will make you feel you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. Siena is a compact, rose-colored city that has it all — rustic charm, stunning monuments, excellent museums, delicious food, and luscious chianti.

The city is home to one of the world’s most famous cathedrals, the Duomo. Clad all over in Siena’s trademark white and dark green marble, Siena Cathedral is a true symbol of the city. 

The greatest artists of the day contributed master works to cathedral, including Donatello, Pinturicchio, Ghiberti, Pisano, Michelangelo, and Bernini. And be sure to check out the Piccolomini Library , which is an absolute must-see highlight.

Another must-visit spot in Siena is Il Campo, which is one of Italy’s most beautiful squares. And if you’re an art lover, you won’t want to miss the Palazzo Pubblico . It has one of the most famous fresco cycles in Italy and a tower to climb for views.

For horse racing enthusiasts, Siena is home to the Palio , the world’s most fiercely contested horse race. The race is held in Il Campo, where ten jockeys and horses represent 10 of the 17 contrade (districts) of Siena.

For more information on Sienna, you can check out my one day in Siena itinerary and my 2 days in Siena itinerary .

• Drive from the Val d’Orcia region to Siena : 28 miles
• Things to do in Siena : Siena walking tour , Siena Cathedral tour , pasta making class , food & wine tour , Tuscan cooking class

San Gimignano

San Gimignano is a UNESCO-listed medieval village in Tuscany that’s sure to steal your heart.

The town’s most striking feature is its 14 towers, known as the “Bella Torres” or “Beautiful Towers.” These spiky honey-colored towers make San Gimignano look like a fairytale town.

The Piazza del Duomo is the main square, and it’s packed with historic attractions, palaces, and the town hall. The Piazza della Cisterna is another must-visit square that’s equally beautiful and has a wishing well.

The Collegiate Church of Santa Maria of the Assumption is a treasure trove of art. You’ll find frescoes by famous artists such as Ghirlandaio, Barna da Siena, and Bartolo di Fredi. 

If you’re interested in the town’s history, head to the Palazzo Comunale, which houses the Civic Museum. Right next door is the Torre Grossa, which you can climb for stunning views of the town.

To learn more about the town, here’s my guide to the best things to do in San Gimignano .

• Drive from Siena to San Gimignano : 25 miles
• Things to do in San Gimignano : 2 hour guided walking tour , wine tour , vineyard dinner with a wine tasting , Tuscan cooking class

Volterra is a must-visit stoney hill town in central Tuscany. Despite its vibrant character, the town’s off-the-beaten-path location keeps it from being overrun by too many tourists.

Volterra has some of the best sightseeing opportunities in all of Tuscany’s small hill towns, with an array of excellent museums and archaeological sites.

Make sure to visit the stunning Piazza dei Priori, Volterra’s main square, which is considered one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Tuscany. The Palazzo dei Priori is the oldest surviving public building in Tuscany. It was the model for the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence.

Volterra also boasts some incredible museums, including the Etruscan Museum, the Pinacoteca, the Alabaster Museum, and the Diocesan Museum. Each museum offers a unique insight into the town’s history, art, and culture.

You can also visit the beautiful Duomo and Baptistery, which are both architectural marvels and must-sees while in Volterra. For more information, check out my one day in Volterra itinerary .

Drive from San Gimignano to Volterra : 25 miles

If you’re looking for a charming hill town that’s steeped in history and filled with impressive Renaissance art and architecture, you’ll want to visit Cortona on your way from Rome to Florence. This historic town was founded by the Etruscans int he 8th century B.C.

One of the highlights of Cortona is Via Nazionale, which is the town’s main street. It connects two of the most popular piazzas – Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza della Repubblica. As you stroll through town, you’ll see a medley of churches and museums that offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history.

If you’re an art lover, you’ll want to visit the Etruscan Museum and the Diocesan Museum. You can also admire a medley of art-filled churches.

For more information, here’s my one day in Cortona itinerary . 

• Drive from Volterra to Cortona : 68 miles
• Things to do in Cortona : guided walking tour , wine tasting tour , cooking class , pasta & pizza making class , guided e-bike tour

Arezzo is a vibrant town in Tuscany that offers a perfect blend of ancient history and modern charm. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, which makes it easy to take a leisurely stroll and explore the sights. 

Arezzo is a treasure trove of high culture, architecture, and history. The top attraction is the Basilica of San Francesco. It boasts a famous fresco cycle by Piero della Francesca, the Legend of the True Cross .

Another must-see is the Duomo. It has a luminous  Mary Magdalene  portrait by della Francesca and nice stained glass. If you’re interested in art, be sure to visit Casa Vasari, the frescoed home of the late Renaissance artist, Giorgio Vasari .

For an incredible view of the city, climb the Clock Tower at Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici. And don’t miss Piazza Grande, the town’s massive sloping main square. It’s one of Europe’s most captivating piazzas with its incredible old world architecture. 

Need more information? Check out my one day in Arezzo itinerary and my guide to Casa Vasari .

• Drive from Cortona to Arezzo : 19 miles
• Things to do in Arezzo : guided walking tour , food and market tour , pasta making class .

Bases For A Road Trip From Rome To Florence

Need somewhere to stay overnight on the way from Rome to Florence? For the best bases for this road trip, I would recommend these towns and hotels.

Orvieto : La Badia , Locanda Palazzone , Grand Hotel Italia

Pienza :  Relais II Chiostro di Pienza , Hotel Corsignano , La Bandita Townhouse

Siena : Grand Hotel Intercontinental , Hotel Certosa di Maggiano , Relais degli Angeli

You can also stay in the countryside. On my last trip to Tuscany, I stayed at the Borgo San Felice . It’s about a half hour away in the hills of Siena. It’s a resort situated in the old palazzi of a medieval village. It was stunning.

Tips For Driving From Rome To Florence

Driving from Rome to Florence is a pretty straightforward journey. The A1 highway is easy to navigate and will take you straight to Florence.

However, once you get off the highway, you may encounter some winding roads. But don’t worry, my GPS was really helpful and we only took a couple wrong turns (which is to be expected when driving in Europe).

One thing to keep in mind is that driving at night can be a bit tricky because the roads aren’t very well lit.

Now, let’s talk about toll roads. There are some toll roads in Italy called “autostrade,” but most roads don’t require you to pay.

If you plan to drive on a toll road, you might want to get a “telepass” from your rental car agency to make things easier. Otherwise, just look for the lane marked “biglietto” when entering the toll area to pick up your ticket.

When you exit the toll road, you’ll need to pay the fee. There are separate lanes for paying with cash and credit cards, and the booths are unmanned. Just look for the slot to enter your ticket and the slot for your payment.

If you notice that other drivers are going faster than you, don’t be afraid to pull over and let them pass. There are quite a few speed cameras on the roads, and you definitely don’t want to get a ticket.

Lastly, when choosing a rental car, it’s a good idea to go for a compact car. The roads can be pretty narrow and parking spots can be a bit tight, so having a smaller car will definitely make things easier.

READ : Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Europe

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best stops on road trip from Rome to Florence. If you need information on Rome and Florence, you can check out my guides:

• 8 ways to spend 1 day in Rome
• 3 day itinerary for Rome
• 5 day itinerary for Rome
• Hidden gems in Rome
• Guide to the Colosseum
• 1 day itinerary for Vatican City
• 1 day itinerary for Florence
• 2 day itinerary for Florence
• 3 day itinerary for Florence
• Best museums in Florence
• Hidden gems in Florence
• Guide to the Uffizi Gallery
• How To Visit Florence’s Duomo

If you’d like to road trip from Rome to Florence, pin it for later.

2 thoughts on “Best Stops On A Rome To Florence Road Trip”

Thank you!!! What priceless information. Bravo!

Thank you so much Theresa!

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Last Updated on April 19, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

The Florence Insider

Your guide to travel and experience Florence, Italy

Driving from Florence to Rome: what to see on a road trip

If you are planning to visit both Florence and Rome, a good idea is to rent a car, take a road trip and stop to visit other beautiful small towns and villages . Tuscany and Lazio are regions full of gorgeous places to visit, charming ancient villages and beautiful Italian countryside landscapes. So I put together my tips on what to see between Florence and Rome on a road trip. They are places I know well and have visited often… I hope you’ll find it useful for planning your travel!

• Read also my tips for renting a car in Florence .
• Tips about parking in Florence
• Getting from Rome to Florence by train (and vice versa)

What to see driving from Florence to Rome

I have listed the places to visit along the route in order from Florence to Rome , of course these tips also apply if you want to take the opposite route!

A lovely medieval town in the heart of Tuscany, Arezzo is famous for Piero della Francesca’s Renaissance frescoes in the Cathedral and in the San Domenico church. But also for its antiques market (every first Sunday of the month) and shops. Don’t miss its beautiful Piazza Grande, with stone buildings covered with coats of arms, and the panoramic view from the Medici Fortress.

Siena is one of the most beautiful and rich in history cities of Tuscany, almost unmissable. I love the ancient Piazza del Campo, with its Gothic town hall and the Torre del Mangia . Not to mention the splendid cathedral, and the historic center made up of characteristic alleys. Art lovers will find museums and churches full of medieval and Renaissance art, while foodies can enjoy the excellent local cuisine.

• Last time I was in Siena I stayed in this hotel and I loved it!

Nestled in the Val di Chiana valley , Cortona is a very characteristic medieval village, made famous by the novel Under the Tuscan Sun . Here you can visit the Etruscan museum, ancient monasteries in the countryside and take walks in the historic center. Cortona is also famous for its great food and extra virgin olive oil (in November there is an important olive oil festival).

• My favorite agriturismo in Cortona

Montepulciano

Known for its noble wine (Vino Nobile di Montepulciano), this medieval village nestled on the top of a hill is surrounded by vineyards. You can enjoy the view of the village and the Tuscan countryside from the top of the Palazzo Comunale tower. This is the perfect stop for wine lovers on a road trip between Florence and Rome!

Perugia is the capital of the region of Umbria, but it is also the Italian capital of chocolate (yes, Perugina chocolate and Baci were born here)! Apart from that, Perugia is a beautiful medieval town set on a hill and still surrounded by ancient walls. Do not miss the Fontana Maggiore, a marble fountain decorated with zodiac signs, a masterpiece of medieval sculpture. And then the Gothic cathedral and the Palazzo dei Priori with its art collection. This is one of the best places to visit between Florence and Rome.

Orvieto is one of my favorite villages, a medieval town perched on a rocky spur, with an Etruscan past that can be discovered underground. There are many churches rich in art, especially the Duomo with the Corporale and San Brizio chapels. The Torre del Moro tower is the perfect place from which to enjoy the panoramic view. Don’t forget to visit the famous and suggestive St. Patrick’s Well!

• Check Altarocca Wine Resort in Orvieto for a great agriturismo with vineyards and wine tasting experiences.

Viterbo was the seat of the papacy for over twenty years during the 1200s , and is still today is a medieval gem to see between Rome and Florence. The historic center is one of the most intact in Europe, with the ancient Palazzo dei Papi , the cathedral and the Rocca square. For archeology lovers, I recommend visiting the National Etruscan Museum.

• When I visited Orvieto I spent one night at Torre di Vico , a 12th century tower with gorgeous rooms.

Civita di Bagnoregio

Civita di Bagnoregio is known as the dying city . It’s an ancient village build on the soft and friable local rock, tufo, that is literally crumbling due to erosion. Today there are only 11 people still living in Civita di Bagnoregio, and the only access to the town is through a bridge . Don’t miss the chance to see this Italian ghost town before it’s gone!

Driving from Florence, we have now arrived in Rome and it is time to visit the capital!

Tips for a road trip from Florence to Rome

Here are some general tips to better organize your road trip in Italy.

How long does it takes to drive from Florence to Rome?

Without making any stops it takes about 3 hours by car to go from Florence to Rome (and vice versa), using the A1 Autostrada (highway). But in the event of traffic jams, road works or traffic accidents it may take longer, so be prepared for the unexpected.

Each stop along the way means leaving the highway and taking secondary roads , which are still easy to drive and offer magnificent views of the Italian countryside.

How many stops along the way?

This mainly depends on how many days you want to dedicate to the road trip. If you want to get from Florence to Rome in one day , you will only have time to make one or two quick stops. But you can think of spending one or more nights along the way, and add other stops to the journey.

Rental car for a road trip frome Florence to Rome

To find a rental car at the cheapest price , I recommend using rentalcars.com , a price comparator of the major car rental companies, which helps you find the right car for you at the best price .

I hope this post was useful for you to organize your road trip in Italy , and decide what to see between Florence and Rome. Let me know which stops you will make by leaving me a comment!

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• What to do in Florence and Tuscany

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6 Places You Absolutely Have to Stop on a Florence-to-Rome Road Trip

By Erin Florio and Ondine Cohane

Monte San Savino

Why Stop One of Tuscany's oldest towns, it's topped by an 800-year-old stone castle; one of its many churches dates to the 12th century.

Where to Have Lunch In cooler months, the stewed wild boar from L'Asinello outside of town is the Tuscan comfort dish you want to eat.

Insider Tip Venture into the Misericordia church to see the 500-year-old wooden organ, one of the oldest in Italy, by master Giovanni Piffero.

Why Stop Art lovers will want to see the Benvenuto di Giovanni frescoes at the San Biogio rectory; the Medicis used to live in the town's 14th-century castle.

Where to Have Lunch This is Chianina-beef territory; we like the steaks (and old movie posters on the wall) at Da Forcillo .

Insider Tip At the top of the town's hill are the ruins of an Etruscan temple dating to 800 B.C.; they're not well publicized, so ask a local to direct you.

Why Stop Though Under the Tuscan Sun put it on the tourist map, it remains a dreamy postcard town, with cobblestoned streets and cafe-lined squares.

Where to Have Lunch Osteria del Teatro , near the cloisters of San Francesco, for pesto ravioli.

Insider Tip Check out Busatti, a family-owned linen producer that makes fabric for sheets and throws on century-old shuttle looms.

Why Stop The town's San Francesco monastery was founded by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1212; you can tour its vegetable and cypress gardens.

Where to Have Lunch A stylish crowd eats at L'Osteria Vecchia da Nilo (you can spot Valentino's estate on the hill).

Insider Tip In summer, when the town fills up with day-trippers, book an upstairs table at Nilo—downstairs is social Siberia.

Anna Borges

Jessica Puckett

Karthika Gupta

Why Stop It's all about the Duomo, the striped 14th-century cathedral with its Instagrammable frescoes by Fra Angelico and Luca Signorelli. The crowds here will be much thinner than in Florence.

Where to Have Lunch Trattoria dell'Orso does a mean tagliatelle with truffles.

Insider Tip The Duomo is open all day from March through October and closed at lunch November through February. Eat early in summer and visit at lunchtime.

Why Stop This medieval hill town, with 16th-century towers and a Renaissance-era aqueduct, sees very few travelers.

Where to Have Lunch Trattoria da Saviglia does Rome-worthy cacio e pepe , but we go for the veal stew.

Insider Tip The town's five palaces date to the 14th century, and each is marked by the oval-crested coat of arms belonging to the once-prominent Albertis.

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Rome to Florence Travel

6 hill towns to visit between rome and florence.

While the quickest way to get from Rome to Florence (or the reverse) is to take a fast train, there are several interesting hill towns to visit in between. If you have extra time, consider stopping in one or more of these places along the route. Although these towns can be visited as day trips, spending the night when there are fewer tourists really gives you a feel for the place. These towns also make good bases for visiting other places in Tuscany and Umbria if you have more time and in summer they’re a good break from the heat of the cities.

6 Places to Go Between Rome and Florence by Train

• Orvieto is a picturesque hill town in Umbria known for its medieval cathedral with mosaics on the facade. The town sits atop a tufa ridge filled with underground passages that have been in use since the days of the Etruscans. You can still see remnants of the Etruscan wall and get an overview of the Etruscans in the archaeological museum. Also of interest is Saint Patrick’s well, built in the 16th century, with double spiral staircases along the sides, each with 248 narrow steps. Good white wine comes from the vineyards around Orvieto. From the train station, a cable railway runs up the hill to the town center.

• Montepulciano is a hill town in southern Tuscany known for the Vino Nobile wine produced in the hills around the town. Montepulciano has a beautiful main square with 14th – 16th century buildings, the cathedral, town hall, and a 15th century tower you can climb for the views. You’ll find several places to taste wine in town, too. Montepulciano train station is a few miles out of town and connected by bus. You can also take a bus directly from Chiusi train station.

• Cortona is the Tuscan hill town made famous by Francis Mayes in her book, Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy . Cortona is another town with Etruscan origins which you can see in its walls and museum. On the main square are the 13th century town hall, bell tower, and cafes. Wander the medieval streets leading out from the square and take a walk (about 45 minutes) through the woods outside of town to Le Celle di Cortona , a convent where Saint Francis stayed when he preached there in 1211. To get to Cortona, take the train to the Terontola-Cortona station and then a bus (or taxi) up to the town a few miles away.
• Arezzo is a town in Tuscany that’s often overlooked by tourists and although it’s a hill town, it’s not so steep as some of the others. The main reason people go to Arezzo is to see the famous Piero della Francesca fresco cycle, Legend of the True Cross, but the medieval town center has several interesting sights including one of the best Etruscan museums in the area. You may recognize Arezzo’s pretty main square from the Roberto Benigni movie, Life Is Beautiful . On the square are several historic buildings and a bell tower you can climb for great views. From the Arezzo train station, you can walk into the center or take a local bus.

• Siena is one of the top towns to visit in Tuscany and one of the largest hill towns, with a medieval center enclosed by 4 miles of medieval walls. Many of its monuments date from the late 13th to 14th centuries when it was one of Europe’s wealthiest cities. Siena is known for its huge fan-shaped main sqaure, Piazza del Campo, home to the famous palio horse race. It’s off the main rail line so you’ll need to change trains in Chiusi (if coming from Rome) and take a regional train but there are direct trains from Florence. The station is below town with a connecting bus.

• Assisi , although not exactly between the two cities, can be reached by direct train from both Rome and Florence – see getting to Assisi from Rome and Florence . Assisi is a medieval hill town in Umbria, known for being the birthplace of Saint Francis. Visitors flock to Assisi to see the Saint Francis Basilica but the town has plenty of other things to see and do including more churches, Roman ruins, a walk through the Saint Francis woods, or just relaxing and having a drink in the main square.

Rome to Florence Travel Tips

For direct travel options, see How to Get from Rome to Florence

See train schedules or buy tickets on trenitalia . Regional train tickets for these towns don’t need to be bought in advance, but if you buy them at the station, be sure to validate your ticket before boarding .

If you’re driving: We advise against driving in Rome and even in Florence, much of the center is restricted and parking can be difficult. If you do decide to drive, rent a car when you’re leaving Rome or in one of the towns along your route and be sure to read our tips for driving in Italy .

Where to Stay:

• Orvieto: Hotel Duomo, Orvieto is a small hotel right by the cathedral with a garden, art works, and parking.
• Montepulciano: Residenza Fabroni, Montepulciano is a bed and breakfast in the historic center, housed in a 17th century palazzo with a rooftop terrace offering 360 degree views.
• Cortona: Hotel Villa Marsili is a highly rated hotel in an 18th century building with gardens, a fireplace, Views, and 14th century frescoes from an old church that was once at that site.
• Arezzo: La Corte del Re has uniquely decorated rooms in an ancient building on Piazza Grande, the main square.
• Siena: Palazzo Ravizza in the historic center near the duomo and main square, is a century-old hotel that’s been modernized while retaining its historic decor and furnishings.
• Assisi: Ride the Beauty Assisi Centro Apartments are in a historic palazzo overlooking the main square.

Continue Reading: 5 Places to Go Between Florence and Venice 5 Places to Go Between Venice and Milan

This post may contain affiliate links to sites I believe are of benefit to travelers. There is no cost to you but the small amount of revenue helps defer the cost of bringing you this free information.

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Rome to Florence Travel originally appeared on MarthasItaly.com Jun 24, 2016 , updated: Feb 17, 2022 by Martha Bakerjian .

Driving from Rome to Florence: Where to Stop + Travel Tips!

Driving from Rome to Florence is one of the most popular mini-road trips in Italy–and one of the most frequent questions we get from readers is where to visit along the way!

We’ve traveled between Florence and Rome many times at this point, hitting up plenty of fun destinations along the way.

T his guide is designed to help you make the most of your drive from Rome to Florence (or vice versa–these suggestions work in either direction).

Table of Contents

What’s it like to drive from Rome to Florence?

How long does it take to drive from rome to florence, where to stop when driving from rome to florence, other stops to consider on your rome to florence road trip, tips for driving from rome to florence.

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That’s honestly our biggest takeaway: it’s a beautiful drive, and quite relaxed as compared to driving in some other places in Italy.

With the exception of any stops that you might make (small towns, country wineries, etc.), the bulk of the drive from Rome to Florence takes place on well-maintained A1.

The A roads in Italy feel more or less like driving on any highway anywhere in the world, except you get the joy of watching the Italian countryside pass by through the window.

When we drove this route with my dad and stepmom, they remarked that the drive was much hillier and more beautiful than they imagined.

It’s definitely not a boring drive !

Without stopping or considering the traffic to exit Rome and enter Florence (or vice versa), the drive time from Florence to Rome is about 3.5 hours via the most direct route.

The fairly short timeline means that even if you’re driving from Rome to Florence in a single day, you still have the opportunity to make a day of it and stop somewhere fun along the way!

(And after all, if you’re not stopping to sightsee, taking the high-speed train is a much faster and more efficient way to travel between Rome and Florence!)

Here are our absolute top picks for where to stop on a drive from Rome to Florence.

A ny one of these is doable even when completing the Rome to Florence drive in a single day!

The beautiful hilltop town of Orvieto makes a fabulous day trip from either Florence or Rome –but if you can squeeze it in between the two destinations to avoid doubling back, that’s even better!

We adore this small town and highly recommend a visit.

Be sure to admire the fabulous Duomo, climb the Torre del Moro for amazing views, explore some of Orvieto’s Etruscan and papal history, visit Orvieto’s underground, and sip some Orvieto Classico wine.

If you have time, consider adding a museum or two to your list!

We also loved descending into St. Patrick’s Well on the edge of town.

Montepulciano

In our opinion, Montepulciano boasts some of the absolute best views of the Tuscan countryside from any hilltop town, and some of the best wine, too.

Montepulciano is small and doesn’t take too long to see, making it the perfect stop when driving from Rome to Florence. 

Even with its small size, though, we count it among our favorite villages in Tuscany and highly recommend a visit.

While you’re there, be sure to check out some of the best things to do in Montepulciano !

S top by the beautiful Piazza Grande, admire views of the nearby Church of San Biagio which is located just outside of town, and taste the local wine, vino nobile di Montepulciano .

Civita di Bagnoregio

Easily one of the most unique and picturesque small towns in Italy , Civita di Bagnoregio is a bit of a headache to access without a car or tour, making it the ideal road trip stop.

Stunning and somewhat isolated, Civita di Bagnoregio (or simply “Civita”) is perched on a cliff of tufa rock, and has been populated since the Etruscan era.

With beautiful views, pretty churches, and winding alleys to explore, Civita di Bagnoregio is an idyllic stop on a drive between Florence and Rome.

There are a few quirks to visiting Civita di Bagnoregio: the town charges an entry fee (5 Euro as of the time of writing), and you can only access it via a long pedestrian bridge.

Don’t miss the views from the Belvedere before you head down and cross the bridge, either: this is where you’ll find the postcard shot of Civita di Bagnoregio!

As the Tuscan village that is featured in the famous Under the Tuscan Sun book and movie, there’s no doubt that Cortona is a charming place.

Idyllic, beautiful, and quite small, Cortona is a fabulous stop during a Rome to Florence road trip.

It’s also a bit of a hassle to reach by train, as you have to take the train to the nearby area of Camucia and then grab a bus to the charming center of Cortona.

In other words, if you’re hoping to visit Cortona and want to simplify your transportation, it’s a great place to visit by car.

Once you finish exploring Cortona itself, consider using the freedom a road trip gives you to visit the beautiful nearby Monastery of Celle.

Beautiful, quiet, and often overlooked on trips to Tuscany, the city of Arezzo is a bit bigger than the other options outlined above but also makes an excellent stop when driving from Rome to Florence.

Home to Roman ruins (including the remains of Arezzo’s very own Colosseum), sweeping views from the Medici fortress, some impressively well-preserved fifteenth-century frescoes, and a large number of antique shops just waiting to be perused.

If you’re looking for a somewhat off-the-beaten-path Tuscan city, Arezzo is a fabulous option for your Rome to Florence road trip.

Be sure not to miss a chance to climb the clock tower at Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici right off the main square (Piazza Grande)!

T he views from the top are absolutely sublime, and it is our personal favorite spot in Arezzo.

Planning a Rome to Florence road trip that will last longer than a day?

If you’re hoping to stop for a night or two between the two cities, you can expand your reach, opening up several more interesting places to visit in central Italy.

The destinations outlined here are a bit more out of the way and/or take a bit more time to visit, but make excellent side trips between Florence and Rome if you have time to spare!

Gorgeous Siena, Florence’s ancient military rival, isn’t exactly on the way to Florence from Rome (via the fastest route, anyway), but it’s still worth a visit.

With an impressive history, a fascinating culture (the Palio di Siena biannual horse race has been running since 1719!), and plenty of fun things to do, Siena ranks among many visitors’ favorite cities in Tuscany.

Siena is home to arguably the most beautiful Duomo in Tuscany (don’t forget to check out the Piccolomini Library while you’re in there!).

W e absolutely recommend taking the Porta di Cielo, or Gate to Heaven, tour of the cathedral’s roof if you can–it’s magnificent.

Visiting Perugia on the drive from Rome to Florence requires you to go around your nose to get to your face, so to speak, but Perugia can be worth the detour!

This walled city boasts beautiful views, lots of Etruscan history, and delicious food .

As the capital of Umbria, you’ll find plenty of stunning architecture in Perugia too, including the Palazzo dei Priori and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo.

Don’t miss the chance to sample the local chocolate, either!

As the location of the birth, work, and death of St. Francis, Assisi is one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in Europe among Catholic travelers.

E ven if you’re not Catholic, though, this small Umbrian town has plenty of history and beauty to offer.

St. Francis was the founder of the Franciscan Order–a name you’ll see pop up a lot in Italy–and is also one of the patron saints of the country.

In Assisi, you can tour the impressive Basilica of St. Francis while learning about the life and history of the saint.

As the most popular day trip from Florence and one of the most famous sights in all of Tuscany, Pisa makes a great stop if you have a few extra hours to use up with your rental car during your Rome to Florence road trip.

Quite frankly, Pisa does not take long to see–a half-day is generally plenty for the major highlights–and having the flexibility to move on when you’re ready is a benefit given the large numbers of crowds you can generally find there.

The famous Leaning Tower of Pisa is even more beautiful in person than we ever imagined from pictures!

While Pisa itself is far from the loveliest town in Tuscany, if you’ve always wanted to climb the tower, it’s definitely worth a quick stop–be sure to book your tickets before you arrive , though!

Book your  skip-the-line tickets to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa today!

Terme di Saturnia

The most famous of all of Tuscany’s hot springs have emerged from comparative obscurity into a full-blown famous photography location in recent years.

That’s for a good reason, though: t here’s no doubt that it’s still a dream to visit!

If you’re a fan of hot springs and want to make a detour for a soak during your drive from Rome to Florence, consider adding Terme di Saturnia to your itinerary.

Driving from Rome to Florence along the major highways is among the simplest driving we’ve encountered in Italy.

If you’re a confident driver, I would say there’s no reason to hesitate over renting a car for this route.

There are, however, a couple of complications that pop up once you leave the main highways and head to, say, Orvieto or Cortona.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind for the drive from Rome to Florence, and if you’re planning a longer trip, you may want to also check out the additional advice we have in our Tuscany road trip guide .

Don’t plan too many stops between Rome and Florence.

Looking at all the tantalizingly accessible destinations on a map of the drive from Rome to Florence can make it incredibly tempting to try to squeeze in as many stops as possible, but try very hard to resist that idea!

While the distances are fairly short, finding parking, walking to the center of town, exploring the town, and then reaching your car again takes quite a bit of time for each place.

If you’re completing your Rome to Florence road trip in a single day, we recommend choosing just one extra stop between the two.

Shop around for your rental car.

I’m almost 100% certain that we’ve used a different rental car company every time we’ve rented a car in Italy.

T hat’s how much the prices can vary depending on your time of travel, pickup and dropoff locations, size of the vehicle, and more !

We recommend searching for your car via Discover Cars , which will allow you to check out the rates of several different rental car agencies at once and compare prices and inclusions side-by-side.

Price rental car options for the drive from Rome to Florence today!

Be careful to avoid ZTL zones.

ZTL zones are restricted access areas that dot most of Italy’s historic city centers, including both Rome and Florence.

If you drive into one, even accidentally, you’re risking a big ticket (and we’ve definitely had to call tiny Tuscan police stations to help some of our family members pay them off months after the fact).

Avoid them by parking on the outskirts of historical centers and by doing your research ahead of time, including where to park in each city you hope to stop in when driving from Rome to Florence.

Autogrills make great quick stops when driving from Rome to Florence.

Need to fill up the gas tank, down a shot of espresso, go to the restroom, eat a reasonably tasty and affordable cooked lunch, or grab some snacks?

Keep an eye out for an Autogrill when driving along the highway–they can help you out with that.

Autogrills are essentially very nice gas-stations-slash-coffee-bars-slash-cafeterias, and you can find them right off the highway all over Italy .

You need an international driving permit to rent a car in Italy.

You can pick this up before you leave home from AAA, and it’s very easy and cheap to do–just a bit annoying, as it’s one more thing to add to your to-do list before leaving for your trip to Italy.

Now, that being said–will your rental agency always ask for it? No.

Will the police always ask for it? No.

Is it worth the risk of being refused a rental car or getting a ticket over $25 USD and a bit of hassle?

We don’t think so.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

39 thoughts on “Driving from Rome to Florence: Where to Stop + Travel Tips!”

Hmm.. did I give you the idea for this article? 🙂 We emailed about this topic last month. Love the article and your advice – we decided to hire a driver and stop in Montepulciano and Orvieto! Thanks again!

You sure did, Karri! Hope my email back went through and that you have a blast! Montepulciano & Orvieto are both so beautiful.

Where/who did you hire the driver from? We would like to Do That Thx

I realize this post is 3 years old , on the chance you see this can you advise where you found your driver, we are interesting in doing the exact same trip

We are driving for the first time in Italy, and probably our last time to visit Ital. From checking out of a hotel in Rome to checking into a hotel in Florence. Where would be the one stop you would take? Assisi is my thought. Alanna

Assisi is a bit out of the way as compared to some of the other stops–I’d pick Orvieto or Montepulciano personally if efficiency is part of the goal–but if you want to see Assisi instead, there’s absolutely no reason why you can’t! Just plan for a bit longer of a drive, as it adds roughly 1.5 hours to the route.

This was very helpful….First timers to Italy…am renting a car in Rome and dropping off in Florence …the biggest reason is to go to the Hot Springs…what other stop would you recommend if going to Springs? Maybe for lunch?

Thanks so much!

Hi Alicia! I’m assuming you mean the hot springs in Saturnia? If so, Siena or San Gimignano would be easy additional stops near Florence for you. 🙂

Hi Alicia & Kate,

My husband and I are planning to do that very trip you described above. Drive from Rome to Florence with stops at the hot springs in Saturnia and a stop in San Gimignano. I was wondering if Alicia did the trip and how’d it go!

We’re going in September 🙂

Hi! I was researching about Florence itinerary and checking out your blog post with the title “How to Take a Fun Florence to Venice Day Trip (No Tour Necessary!)” but the link doesn’t seem to work and it’s showing the Home page instead. FYI. Very informative travel site by the way!

How strange, I’ll be sure to check out it. Thanks, Hazel! 🙂

We are planning a road trip between Rome and Florence in May so coming across your post has been fantastic so thank you. Lots of ideas from reading your article…Montepulciano, Perugia, Pisa, Siena & Assisi. We have 2 possibly 3 nights for the drive (yet to decide on a hotel or Airbnb) so just wanted to see (if you have the time) what you would recommend. I think Assisi will be a must for us. This will be our first trip to Italy.

Hi Charlie!

If you’re doing Assisi, Perugia or Montepulciano would be very easy to add on geographically speaking, so those would be my first picks.

Pisa is interesting but many people find it less compelling than the rest. If you want to visit, I’d consider taking the train from Florence for a day rather than driving out there.

Hope you have a wonderful time!

Thanks for this article. We are going to Italy in September (COVID factors permitting), and we had originally planned on us taking the train from Rome to Florence, but I think instead we will rent a car and visit Orvieto and spend the night in Montepulciano instead as a bit of a mini-Tuscany excursion between.

Hope you guys have a great time! Orvieto and Montepulciano are both gorgeous. 🙂

Hi Kate! We will be driving from Rome to Florence in June, thank you for your in-depth amazing article! We are planning on spending two nights in montepluciano as a base to explore the countryside. What do you think of that idea?Would you recommend another town that is more central as a base? Thank you so much 🙂

So glad it was helpful, Kim!

Montepulciano is a fantastic idea, we actually based ourselves there on our trip to Tuscany last month. Here’s our guide to the town if you haven’t seen it: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/things-to-do-in-montepulciano-italy/

Be sure to visit the Val d’Orcia and Pienza (one of our favorite little towns in Tuscany) while you’re there! 🙂

Hi Kate, with my wife we are taking a train from Rome To Florence. The idea is to rent a car

in Forence and drive Tuscany 3 days. Do you have a route itinerary or routes to take or avoid?? Also any recommended winnery If you could also recommend places to stay in FLorence, how bout parking in Florence?

Thanks in advance for any info that could assist us!!

With 3 days, you’ll definitely want to stick to northern Tuscany–think places like Lucca, Volterra, San Gimignano, etc. This post will be a good start for you and has lots of information: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/tuscany-road-trip-itinerary/

We have many posts about Florence as well, including places to stay: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/2-days-in-florence-itinerary/

You guys will have a great time–there’s lots to see in that area!

Do you have any recommendations for private drivers? We are looking to travel from Rome to Florence with a stop in Montepulciano for an ebike wine tour and/or Saturnia. Would love any drivers or other advice you may have.

Hi Ellie! No, we’ve never used a private driver in Italy so aren’t a good resource there. I know that some private drivers list their services/tours through Get Your Guide, which we use to book many other kinds of tours. 🙂

Hi Kate, Love your site and hope it will be useful. We are traveling from Florence to Rome and have only one night to stay on the way. It might be around Orvieto, but we don’t want to stay in the town, can you recommend any beautiful place to stay around that area? Cheers

Hi Soledad,

Not off the top of my head, but what I’d recommend is looking for a country hotel or agriturismo near Orvieto.

There will be many around, and they tend to include free on-site parking, easy access, and (often) a wonderful included breakfast. Some agriturismos offer a dinner service, too.

Great website you have created and maintained. A lot of information and the links have been helpful for a possible mid April trip. Thank you!

Thanks, Allen! Hope you guys have a great trip to Italy.

We are planning to go to Tuscany this summer (end of June) and only will have 3-4 days. We are getting off the cruise in Rome, planning to rent a car and drive to Florence. I want to see Montepulciano, Pienza, Orvieto, Volterra, San Gimignano and Greve. Also that town that has the pedestrian bridge if possible, but I’m thinking this is too much to do in this short time! Can you help me narrow it down, or suggest some hidden gems that we might not know about? Thank you so much!

I’m not sure how busy your trip will be before and after the Tuscany leg, so I’ll give advice as if you’ll have lots of energy toward the beginning of a trip and you can scale down as needed.

First things first, most “Rome” cruises stop in Civitavecchia–assuming this is true of yours, I’d rent a car there and bypass the capital entirely, since it doesn’t sound like you plan to sightsee in Rome.

If you rent a car in Civitavecchia, you can stop in Civita di Bagnoregio (the town with the pedestrian bridge) on your way north. A couple of hours can give you a solid taste of that town. Orvieto is just to the north of there, depending on when your cruise gets in your can potentially spend the night there.

The next day, you can continue north and explore Montepulciano and Pienza before sleeping in Florence.

Technically, the following day you could visit San Gimignano and Volterra, but if you’ve already done all that sightseeing, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it–I’d consider enjoying Florence for the rest of your time instead.

Hotel Silla, which we have linked in our 2 week Italy guide, has both fairly simple parking and easy access to the best of Florence on foot, a coveted combination. We stayed there in 2022 and enjoyed it: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/2-weeks-in-italy-itinerary/

Personally, Greve isn’t our favorite town in Tuscany and I’d consider trimming it–the surrounding area is lovely, but it wouldn’t be my priority on a short trip.

We are heading to Rome in a few weeks and want a driver to take us to Florence while sight seeing along the way. Do you have any recommendations for who can do this? We are interested in a similar service between Florence and Venice

We’ve never hired a private driver ourselves, however, you can often find them on Get Your Guide, which is the aggregate we book lots of our Italy tours and attractions through.

Thank you very much for your information about Tuscany. I am planning a 26 days trip with my wife in Italy from Sicilia to Genoa in May. I plan to spend 6 nights in Tuscany. We will drive from Rome to Florence and wonder if our plan, based on your recommendation, is good or too many places to visit / drive to. Or should I add more citta? Day 1 : Terme di Saturnia Civita di Bagnoregio Orvietto – sleep here Day 2 : Asissi Val D’Orcia Montepulciano – sleep here Day 3 : Siena – sleep here Day 4 : Voltera San Gimignano – sleep here Day 5-6 : Florence

Thank you very much in advance for your advice.

It’s doable but a bit rushed! If you consider this route a wish list of sorts, don’t necessarily want to see everything in each place, and are flexible with adding/deleting stops as time allows, it’s workable.

Assisi is a bit out of the way compared to your other stops, if it’s not a high priority for you, I’d recommend considering spending more time in the Val d’ Orcia instead.

Same goes for Saturnia – you could trim a couple hours of driving time off your route by skipping it.

I appreciate your advice. You are absolutely right. It is too rush to include Asissi. I planned to drive along the western coastline to Saturnia. Is it a pretty and interesting route to explore? Is white whale in San Filippo giving similar experience as Saturnia? If so then I don’t really need to visit Saturnia.

I think Verona/Dolomites (after Tuscany) is also out of my route to Cinque Terre and Genoa. So I will cut 2 nights there and add 1 more night in Florence.

It seems we need at least 2 months to explore the whole Italy!

Grazie mille!

I’ve only traveled that section of the western coastline by train, but can confirm that the train views at least were wonderful!

Terme di San Filippo will be a bit quieter and likely more peaceful than Saturnia, so if you’re not set on the idea of Saturnia in particular, I think that could be a solid switch.

There’s definitely no end to how much there is to explore in Italy! Our wish list is still longer than when we started visiting. 🙂

Hi Kate! I was wondering what you thought about this section of our itinerary:-) Our family of 5 (2 adults, 18-year-old and twin 15-year-olds). Cinque Terre to Florence with an overnight stop in Lucca. Stay in Florence 2 days. From Florence to Rome, I want to stop at 1 or 2 places. From looking at pictures I thought these were the prettiest places: Orvieto, Montepulciano, San Gimignano, Perugia (Looks like a postcard) Assisi and Siena. Would you recommend a few combinations of places that I can pick from. Kristine

Hi Kristine,

Assuming you’re doing the Florence to Rome drive in one day with these stops, I’d recommend either a combination of Orvieto and Montepulciano or a combination of San Gimignano and Siena.

Perugia and Assisi are further east, so they add the most driving time of the possibilities you mentioned.

Hope you guys have a great time!

I’d love to do a road trip from Rome to Tavarnelle Val di Pesa, with a stop in Montepulciano, but our friends recently had all of their luggage stolen when they were in Pisa for lunch. If there is no way to keep our luggage safe, we’d rather take the train and then double back after renting a car in Florence. Have you found safe/protected places to leave your car while sightseeing? Or, should we consider a night in Montepulciano on the way?

Hi Maryann,

I’m sorry that happened to your friends!

When it comes to keeping your belongings safe while parking, the general rule of thumb for storing things in your car in Italy (or anywhere else in Europe or really, the world) is to leave absolutely everything out of sight. This isn’t necessarily because thieves are breaking in left and right, but it’s seen as a culturally acceptable caution, like locking your doors at home.

Most European cars without a traditional trunk have a shade of sorts that pulls over the trunk section, 100% concealing anything inside. We leave our luggage in there semi-regularly and feel perfectly safe doing so. We also take any odds and ends from the front of our car–spare change, a phone charger, etc–and put it in the glovebox out of sight when leaving our car.

When sightseeing in Tuscany, generally you’ll park in a lot or occasionally garage just outside of the historic center. They’re not generally guarded, but they tend to be busy, especially at popular places during the day.

All of that aside, a night in Montepulciano is never a bad idea. 🙂 I wouldn’t let potential theft be the reason you make that decision, though, unless you think the worry will detract from your trip otherwise.

I hope that helps!

Hi Kate we are planning a trip in January to Italy (we know it will be cold, but main holiday is skiing) and want to drive from Rome to Florence. We would like to spend a night in a Village along the way but are undecided between Montalcino, Montepulciano and San Gimignano. Which village is better when considering accommodation, parking, fees and sightseeing? We also really like our wine. Would you recommend renting and dropping off the car at the airports at each city to avoid driving in heavy traffic? Would really appreciate your help here.

All of the villages you mentioned are wonderful, and they’re also fairly small! They also (like virtually all hilltop towns in Italy) all require parking outside the historic center and walking in from there, though there are occasional exceptions depending on what hotel you book.

Personally, I’d lean toward Montepulciano based simply on the fact that it’s the closest to your route, and of course, it’s also famous for its wine. Depending on your schedule, you could also stop at one of the others the next day as you continue to Florence, though it would require driving out of your way.

Whether you pick up cars at the airports or in town, heavy traffic is probably unavoidable in the cities. Picking up at the airport also sometimes comes with additional fees, though that can vary! I’d do a price comparison between a few different pickup points and see what you find.

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Road trip from Rome to Florence

Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and a jewel of the Italian Renaissance, offering jaw-dropping architecture, a celebrated art scene and plentiful opportunities for fine dining.

It takes 7 hours 45 minutes to drive the 480-km road trip from Rome to Florence. Heading through Tuscany and Umbria, you can at Terni, Civita di Bagnoregio, Orvieto, Perugia, Montepulciano and Cortona, or travel via the coast to see Livorno and Pisa.

A trip through the beautiful regions of Umbria and Tuscany lets you discover charming medieval and Etruscan towns as well as touring through celebrated wine country. Whichever route you take you'll have an unforgettable journey through the region's distinctive landscapes.

How far is Florence from Rome, and how long will the road trip take?

You can drive between Italy's capital city, Rome, and nearby Florence in around 3 hours via the Autostrada, but why rush when you have the chance to explore the picturesque landscapes of Umbria and Tuscany along the way?

Head inland through Orvieto and Perugia and take your time to stroll through picture-perfect hill towns, vineyards and rolling countryside.

This colourful 480-km road trip will take 7 hours and 50 minutes to drive, so although it's not the quickest route between the two cities, you could still drive it in a couple of days if you're short on time.

If you'd rather spend time by the Mediterranean, you also have the option of taking a slightly shorter 6-hour route which runs along Italy's western coast. This trip covers 450 km.

With so much to see and do on both routes, we'd suggest taking 4 to 5 days to enjoy this road trip. Not only does this give you plenty of time for sightseeing, but this way you'll have even more chances to sample the fabulous local cuisine.

Best road trip route from Rome to Florence

Both of our recommended routes for the road trip from Rome to Florence take you through some fabulous countryside.

Head inland to explore central Italy on the route through Perugia. Along the way you'll spend time in Umbria, known for its many medieval towns and olive groves, before reaching Tuscany, with its historic and artistic legacy. Both regions are significant for their culinary cultures and produce some fabulous wines too - the perfect combination!

You won't hit the coast on the Perugia Route, but you'll have the opportunity to relax on the beach at Lake Trasimeno, where you can cool off in the calm lake waters.

Along the Perugia Route you'll have plenty of opportunities to take in both medieval and roman ruins, with a highlight being the stunning Civita di Bagnoregio. You'll also visit the stunning city of Perugia, the capital of Umbria, which is famous for its chocolate industry.

The shorter Pisa Route takes you along the beautiful Western Coast of Italy, stopping in the cities of Livorno, Grosseto and Pisa.

Along the way, you'll pass other wonderful coastal town like Civitavecchia, where you can see Roman and Greek ruins and San Vincenzo. As the name suggests, this route includes a stop in Pisa, which boasts one of Italy's most recognizable monuments, the Leaning Tower, as well as stunning canals and a rich student life.

The Perugia Route

Head north out of Rome to connect with the E35 which merges with the A1 after around 20 km. Follow the River Tiber north as far as Caldare then turn off the Autostrada to detour through San Pellegrino to Terni.

Retrace your route towards Caldare but instead of rejoining the Autostrada, continue straight ahead on the SS675 in the direction of Viterbo. A short distance after Paparano, turn off the highway at the exit for Montefiascone.

Follow the local roads through small towns, rolling fields and olive groves as far as Bagnoregio where you can explore the beautiful hill town. Then, continue north towards Orvieto, crossing into Umbria before you reach your next stop.

Leave Orvieto heading for the E35, but instead of joining the Autostrada continue to follow the SS205 towards Ponte, which runs parallel. Where the road divides at Ponte, turn left towards Lago di Corbera and follow the road along the lake shore and River Tiber as it travels through a scenic gorge.

Turn onto the E45 towards Perugia, then after spending some time in this beautiful city make your way towards the northern end of Lake Trasimeno. Leave the car behind to take the short boat trip to Isola Maggiore if you have time.

Carry on west from Lake Trasimeno, turning off towards Pietraia then following signs towards the stunning hill town of Montepulciano. To continue, retrace your route then head through Centoia and Le Fosse towards Cortona.

From here, make your way north through the Tuscan countryside, heading to Arezzo then joining the A1 which takes you to Florence to complete your journey.

The Pisa Route

The shorter route to Pisa is much simpler to navigate as it follows the Autostrada for much of the way, but you can still take your time to hop off the highway and explore some of the towns and beaches that it bypasses as you head north.

Leave Rome to the southeast, joining the A91 to connect with the E80 which runs parallel to the coast for some 300 km, passing Citavecchia, Grosseto and Cecina on the way north to Livorno.

From Livorno, the SS1 takes you a short distance to Pisa. There's a whole host of Renaissance gems to enjoy in the city before you head out to the suburb of Ospedaletto to join the Superstrada Firenze-Pisa-Livorno which takes you to your final destination in Florence.

Best places to stop between Rome to Florence

We'd recommend taking 4 to 5 days to wind your way between Rome and Florence, so you're going to need to make a few overnight stops along the way.

There are some amazing hotels dotted along both routes, but here are some of our favorites to get you started with your planning:

Discover Renaissance gems in Perugia

Around halfway along your drive, Perugia is the capital of the Umbria region and the largest city you'll visit on the Perugia Route. It's the ideal spot to spend a night in.

Perugia is known as being the home to Perugina, the producer of Italy's most beloved chocolate, Baci. It also has a significant Etruscan history, being one of 12 cities of the Etruscan federation.

Having been the artistic center of Umbria during the 15th and 16th centuries, it's no surprise that you'll find the Galleria Nazionale dell Umbria in the city. Located within the Palazzo dei Priori, the gallery displays sculptures and paintings from the celebrated Umbrian school of art.

Next, head to Piazza IV, Perugia's main square, around which you'll find wonderful restaurants and cafes surrounding the stunning 13th-century Fontana Maggiore.

One of the most prestigious and luxurious hotels in Perugia, Sina Brufani boasts stunning views of the Umbrian hills and medieval rooftops. As well as its spacious rooms and fresco ceilings, you can relax in the unforgettable indoor swimming pool, which has a glass floor that reveals 3,000-year-old Etruscan ruins below.

The hotel is in the heart of Perugia, on the outskirts of the historic center so you'll still feel a great sense of privacy during your stay. It's the perfect place to unwind at the end of a day of driving and sightseeing, with a fabulous meal of regional cuisine and fine wine on the beautiful terrace.

Look out over the Leaning Tower in Pisa

If you're taking the shorter route, Pisa is a charming small city around two-thirds of the way along the route. Best known for the Leaning Tower, it also boasts many other wonderful attractions that make the city well worth an overnight stay.

You can't visit Pisa without paying a visit to the iconic Leaning Tower, completed in the 14th century. Don't forget to explore some of the other monuments in the vast Campo dei Miracoli or Square of Miracles.

Take a walk through the city to admire the beautiful palaces and stunning bridges that cross over the River Arno then head to Palazzo Blu. This famous blue art museum is home to a permanent collection of Italian art, as well as interesting temporary exhibitions.

Seeing as you'll be here for the evening, head to Piazza Garibaldi. This central square comes alive at night when residents and visitors alike commune for a drink or a famous Pisa Bombolo.

Located close to Pisa's most interesting attractions, including Campo dei Miracoli, you'll find Grand Hotel Duomo . Its rooftop terrace has panoramic city views, as well as a bar so make sure to come and enjoy the views at both ends of the day.

There's a breakfast buffet here every morning, as well as a wonderful restaurant offering regional cuisine. There's a parking garage attached to the hotel, which is handy when you're staying so close to the historic center of Pisa.

Where to stay when you reach Florence

When you arrive in Florence, chances are you're going to want to base yourself in the city's historic center, so why not book into Hotel della Signoria which is just a short walk from the Pitti Palace and the Palazzo Vecchio.

As a bonus, the simple, elegant rooms, outstanding service and unforgettable view from the rooftop terrace come with a reasonable price tag for the hotel's central location.

Alternatively, if you're looking for a luxury finish to your road trip, the 5-star Hotel Bernini Palace has everything you're looking for . This 15-century building, close to the Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio is furnished with Murano-glass chandeliers and stylish antiques.

Its restaurant offers panoramic views over the city and serves regional and international dishes. To round off the night, head to the lounge bar for a cocktail.

Things to see on a road trip from Rome to Florence

The road trip from Rome to Florence is short but packed full of unforgettable sights and the beautiful landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria.

Here are just a few of the highlights that you can enjoy when you take this trip.

• Terni - Known as the “City of Lovers” for being the birthplace of Saint Valentine, the city of Terni also has plenty on offer when it comes to historical and natural sites, including beautiful Roman ruins and stunning nearby waterfalls.
• Civita di Bagnoregio - There is little in Italy that can compare to Civita di Bagnoregio when it comes to medieval charm and arresting architectural beauty. The city, reachable by footbridge, is situated right atop a hill overlooking an Umbrian valley.
• Orvieto - Orvieto is a striking and majestic hill town, which boasts a gorgeous cathedral as well as charming cobblestoned streets and a rich culinary scene.
• Lake Trasimeno - Head to Castiglione del Lago to walk the town's historic streets or cool off with a swim at one of the nearby lake beaches. You'll get fabulous views over the Umbrian landscape towards your next stop, Montepulciano.
• Montepulciano - Famous for it's red wine grape, but also boasting some gorgeous Renaissance and Medieval architecture, Montepulciano is a must-see along your route.
• Cortona - A town and commune in the province of Arezzo, Cortona was famously featured as the setting to the film “Under the Tuscan Sun”. It offers a bevy of unique museums, as well as a stunning medieval and Etruscan center.
• Arezzo - Arezzo is bursting with attractions, including the gorgeous Medici Fortress, historic Arezzo Cathedral and the celebrated Roman Amphitheatre - don't skip this one!

• Lago di Bracciano - This beautiful lake located close to Rome is perfect for a few hours (or even a few days) exploration, boasting stunning blue waters.
• Orsini-Odescalchi Castle - A stunning castle that dominates the southern shore of Lake Bracciano, the Orsini-Odelscalchi is historic and well worth the visit.
• Civitavecchia - Don't hesitate to explore the beautiful city of Civitavecchia, whose name translates to “old city” in Latin, and which boasts many historic Roman monuments and structures.
• Maremma Archaeology and Art Museum - Discover this stately museum, which offers a closer look into medieval archaeology and medieval artwork with religious themes. It's right along your route in Grosseto.
• San Vincente - This small beach town is a favourite amongst locals and an ideal place to stop if you're looking to take a dip into Italy's beautiful Mediterranean waters.
• Livorno - A coastal city located a few hours from Pisa, Livorno has tons on offer when it comes to attractions, including the Mimbelli Villa and a “New Venice” complete with gorgeous canals.
• Lucca - This small city on the Serchio river is known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls, as well as a rich classical music history, having been the birthplace of one of Italy's most celebrated opera composers, Giacomo Puccini.

Both Routes

• Prato - Located just outside of Florence, the charming and quiet little city of Prato is known for its historic textile industry and offers a rest from the bustle of its larger cousin.
• Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi - This hilly national park is a wonderful place to enjoy a hike or bike ride, boasting ancient beech forests and several gorgeous streams.

Best time to go on a road trip from Rome to Florence

Florence is definitely a year-round destination - you can enjoy its architecture, fine dining scene and iconic museums at any time of year. However, there are still some important things to factor in when you're planning your trip.

Florence can get hot and busy in the summer, with temperatures averaging 30 degrees Celsius and sometimes shooting up above 40. The warm weather means you can enjoy dining al fresco or stand out in the sunshine to watch the Festa di San Lorenzo celebrations in August, but some travellers might find the heat overwhelming.

If you have the option to visit at another time, we recommend avoiding a trip in summer, which also comes with larger crowds and pricier accommodation.

Florence is most quiet during the winter, with the exception of the holiday season when tourism picks up again. Carnevale in February can be particularly busy. If you're looking for a quiet vacation and don't mind colder temperatures (fluctuating between 2 and 12 degrees Celsius), winter is an ideal time to visit this beautiful city.

Spring and fall are great times to visit Florence. The weather is mild enough to dine al fresco and it's often less crowded than in the summer, although since tourists flock to the city all year round, don't expect to have the main attractions to yourself.

If you're visiting in spring you might be able to catch the Florentine New Year celebrations, held in late March. Despite its name, Maggio Musicale Fiorentino runs from April through to July and sees many classical music, ballet and opera performances taking place.

Whatever time of year, this is an absolutely stunning route to an unforgettable destination - just don't forget to pack your sunscreen and your passport!

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Best Rome to Florence day trip itinerary: High-speed trains + tours

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One of the best ways to see Italy’s beautiful interior is by embarking on a Rome to Florence day trip via a high-speed train. Why? Not only because you get to see stunning countryside scenery from one major Italian city to another, but you do this in just under two hours!

You may think that you have to choose between Rome or Florence when visiting Italy, but nothing could be further from the truth. Both these cities offer an extraordinary experience. 

Rome is the quintessential capital, brimming with ancient history and dotted with world-class landmarks like the Colosseum. On the other hand, Florence offers a unique Tuscan experience, complete with top-of-the-pile Renaissance art and architecture. So it’s best to see both cities.

Now, without wasting time, let’s dive into this ultimate day trip itinerary from Rome to Florence on board a high-speed train.

Best Rome to Florence Day Trip Itinerary: High-speed trains + tours

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About our experience + using this guide

We have traveled to Florence on 2 occasions – once on a guided tour, and a high-speed train. High-speed trains in Italy are safe and perfect for a day trip with or without a guide. 

For a day trip from Rome to Florence (without a guide), we recommend getting on an early train and returning on one of the last rides (after sunset). We have listed all the possible ways to get to Florence below, with our suggested tours, as well as sharing our itinerary stops. 

Rome to Florence Day trip stops with Google Map

• Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
• Mercato Centrale
• Palazzo Medici Riccardi 
• Galleria dell’Accademia (30+ minutes, book tickets early)
• Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
• Piazza del Duomo (lunch/snack break)
• Palazzo Vecchio – Piazza del Signoria (quick stop, but guided tours are available)
• Uffizi Gallery (60+ minutes, book tickets early)
• Ponte Vecchio (quick stop)
• Sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo 

For museums, you will have to account for 30 minutes to an hour for exploration (considering you are on a day trip). We have also provided extra options like a cooking class and additional stops which you can swap for. 

Getting to Florence from Rome via a high-speed train

There are several ways you can travel to Florence from Rome. Driving and flying are two common options, but taking a high-speed train is the most popular way to do this day trip.

You’ll find many train stations in Rome. Termini Station is centrally located and by far the largest depot. It offers more routes and plenty of facilities, including a tourist information office. 

High-speed train tours from Rome to Florence typically depart from Termini Station and arrive at Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Station. This train ride covers 260.7 km (162 miles) and takes about 90 minutes. 

If you’re not joining a guided day tour, you can expect to pay around $32 for a ticket. 

Rome to Florence Day Trip Itinerary

After arriving in Florence, you’ll either explore the city with an expert guide or alone, depending on the tour package you booked. These are both great options, but if you’d like to learn about the history and culture of Florence, taking a guided walking tour is probably your best option.

If you’re exploring Florence solo, we’ve created an easy-to-follow itinerary that ensures you get a fully immersive experience of the birthplace of the Renaissance. Have a look below.

1. Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

Conveniently located about a minute away from Florence’s main train station, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is ideally the first stop you should make after your arrival. 

This 13-14th century church has a stunning marble facade, and inside, you’ll find extraordinary religious artworks like Masaccio’s Trinità (Holy Trinity) and the Crucifix by Giotto. 

Walk across the piazza to the Museo Novecento, where you’ll see interactive exhibits and artworks from the 1900s onwards. Before you head to the next attraction on this itinerary, be sure to check out the Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy, one of the oldest in the city.

There is nothing like it, the pharmacy boasts a frescoed interior featuring ancient books and statues.

2. Mercato Centrale (The Central Market)

If you want to experience the typical day in the life of a local in Florence, there is no better place to do this than at the Central Market. Famous for its inexpensive leather goods, fresh produce, and artisanal inventory, this market is the best spot for eating and souvenir shopping.

On the ground floor, you’ll find a locally-made products and fresh foods market boasting several stalls. This part of the Central Market opens from Monday to Saturday, from 7 am until 2 pm. You’ll have limited time, so we suggest you explore this floor before heading up.

The first floor of the Central Market is where you’ll find a food court. It features several small restaurants, tasting rooms, and wine bars where you can indulge in local specialties like lampredotto, porchetta, and trippa. This part of the market opens daily, from 8 am to midnight.

Of course, you’ll also find typical Italian dishes here, like pizza, roast fish, fried vegetables, and buffalo mozzarella. We recommend you have lunch here to fuel up for the adventure ahead.

3. Palazzo Medici Riccardi

The House of Medici is one of the most influential banking families and political dynasties that existed in Italy. Famous for funding the Renaissance, this art-loving family built and expanded many buildings in Florence, including the Palazzo Medici Riccardi.

So, if you’re a history buff eager to learn more about this mighty family, visiting the Palazzo Medici Riccardi is a must. The palace is famous for its magnificent Magi Chapel, which features frescoed walls painted by Benozzo Gozzoli. Donatello and Michelangelo also worked here.

Other highlights you’ll love to see at Palazzo Medici Riccardi include the arch-filled internal courtyard, the manicured Medici garden, and the Hall of Mirrors, boasting golden walls.

4. Galleria dell’Accademia

You cannot possibly spend a day in Florence without seeing the city’s extensive collections of art, paintings, and sculptures. The Accademia Gallery is one of the best places to admire world-class artworks. 

This art museum is famous for housing Michelangelo’s David statue, and it displays the largest collection of the artist’s works in the world. But there is more to see at Accademia Gallery, including the Coronation of the Virgin by Jacopo di Cione and the Tree of Life by Pacino di Bonaguida are other masterpieces you must see.

Accademia Gallery is one of Florence’s top attractions, so book a skip-the-line guided tour to bypass the long queues. You’ll have a multilingual guide who shares insights on the museum’s outstanding Gothic and Renaissance artworks. 

Pro tip : When booking a ticket, choose a time slot that works for you – keeping in mind the travel time from Rome to Florence, and walk to the museum. 

5. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Duomo)

Florence is well-endowed with majestic churches. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is one of the most beautiful churches in the city and a must-see if you admire Gothic architecture. It is the fourth-largest church in the world, so there’s plenty to see.

A skip-the-line tour of the Florence Duomo takes you through the church’s famous frescoes, private passages, and rooftop terraces, where you’ll get a close-up of Brunelleschi’s dome. The cherry on top will be the sweeping views of the city you’ll get from Cupola del Brunelleschi.  

Tip : Typically the guided tours are for 2.5 to 3 hours, if you are pressed for time, we recommend visiting the Douomo from the outside. Or you can skip one of the museum visits. 

6. Piazza del Duomo + Giotto’s Bell Tower

Just steps away from the cathedral, you’ll find the Piazza del Duomo. This lively square is arguably the most famous in Florence, being surrounded by many top attractions. 

Sitting in the heart of Florence, this piazza boasts must-see architecture like the Giotto Bell Tower.

Around the square, you’ll find plenty of things to enjoy. From vibrant street artists to cafes, cocktails, bars, and pizzeria where you can indulge in tasty treats. You’ll want to take your time here so you don’t miss out on seeing some of Florence’s top attractions. 

This is also the perfect place to catch a breather and grab a drink and pizza before continuing. 

7. Palazzo Vecchio

Boasting a brick-faced facade and a gigantic clock tower overlooking Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio serves as Florence’s town hall. Its interesting history and great architecture are some reasons why people visit this place, but its art collection is also something to look out for.

A skip-the-line entry ticket to Palazzo Vecchio offers you a secret passage tour through the palace. You’ll see many Renaissance artworks, marvel at secret Medici rooms, and find off-the-beaten-path locations in the Palazzo Vecchio Museum, like a mysterious stairway. 

Pro tip: We recommend just going on a stroll at the piazza in the interest of time. 

8. Uffizi Gallery

One of the most prominent art museums in Florence (and arguably in Italy) is none other than the Uffizi Gallery. Located minutes away from the Piazza della Signoria, this gallery is famous for its great collection of paintings and sculptures dating back to the Middle Ages.

Get yourself a skip-the-line entrance ticket and admire masterpieces from the likes of Giotto, Michelangelo, and Da Vinci. Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus” is also among the relics you’ll see here. Uffizi Gallery is unique compared to other art museums in Florence. 

Walking through the gallery is like going back in time. As you stroll through artworks chronologically arranged from the 13th to the 18th century. There are also archaeological collections in the Uffizi Gallery, such as Roman and Greek sculptures.

Pro tip : Just like the Accademia Gallery, you will have to book tickets ahead of time and have to choose a slot. Based on the ticket availability you will have to adjust this itinerary. 

9. Ponte Vecchio

Walk over to the Ponte Vecchio, and enjoy the view of the River Arno. The Old Bridge is known for the shops that are built along it, but we loved it more for the uninterrupted views of the river and its surroundings. 

(Located near the Ponte Vecchio is the Pitti Palace and can spend some time at the Boboli Gardens here – we have included that as an option below). 

10. Sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo

Finally, your day trip from Rome to Florence ends with one of the most magical sunsets in Italy. This square is an excellent spot for panoramic views of Florence and beyond. The 360-degree views and skyline scenery are even more stunning at sunset time .

This could be the highlight of your trip, so be sure to arrive early (at least an hour before sunset) so that you can get the best spot. The square boasts a huge replica of the David statue at the center, as well as stalls selling football shirts, crafts, and many other Italian souvenirs .

More Things to Do in Florence Italy

We have included additional activities that you can swap for any of the itinerary stops above. 

Museo Leonardo Da Vinci + Interactive Museum

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence has provided the world with many artists, sculptors, scientists, and engineers, and Da Vinci is one of the most famous among them. 

The intellectual is credited with conducting many experiments and creating futuristic inventions that were groundbreaking during the Renaissance. And you can see and marvel at most of these extraordinary items at the Leonardo Da Vinci Interactive Museum.

Book a guided tour of the museum and get a sneak peek into the genius mind of Leonardo Da Vinci as you roam through his artworks.

Tuscan cooking or pasta-making class

For a classic Florentine experience, take a cooking or pasta-making class and learn how to make delicious homemade Italian dishes. There are several tour providers around Florence, and they range from three-hour classes to full-day tours. 

If you’re spending two days in Florence (or more), we suggest you take the full-day cooking class at a Tuscan farmhouse led by an expert chef. You’ll learn how to make meals like bruschetta and roast pork and desserts like tiramisù from scratch. 

This cooking experience is perfectly paired with a visit to a local market and a scrumptious 4-course lunch. If you don’t have a lot of time, then join this pasta-making class so you have enough time to complete this itinerary. 

Palazzo Pitti + Boboli Gardens

Cross over the Arno River at Ponte Vecchio and head over to Pitti Palace. This exceptional palace boasts remarkable Renaissance architecture, splendid frescoes, gilded ceilings, and elegant furniture that makes even billionaires jealous.

A guided tour of Palazzo Pitti takes you through the residence’s expansive courtyards and the immaculate Boboli Gardens. You’ll also get to marvel at the Medici Family’s extensive artwork collection at the Palatine Gallery and learn about their grand-dual residency at the palace.

Rome to Florence day tours via high-speed train

If you are unsure of doing this yourself, we highly suggest that you join a guided tour when taking a day trip from Rome to Florence. These tours offer roundtrip tickets, a local guide, and skip-the-line tickets to main attractions. 

You’ll also get some free time to wander around the picturesque medieval streets of Florence. If you prefer to have more time to yourself, then a private tour will be useful such as this one

Here are a few of the best options for a scenic high-speed train day trip from Rome to Florence.

From Rome: Day trip to Florence by high-speed train (3.5/5 – 191 reviews)

Boarding from Termini Station at 7:30 am, this high-speed train day tour sees you traversing through Italy’s gorgeous countryside. You’ll catch glimpses of charming villages and towns from the window of your standard-class carriage along the way.

Upon arrival, you’ll meet your tour guide and begin exploring the Renaissance city. At the Piazza del Duomo, you’ll spot classic Florence attractions like the Gothic-style Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the towering Campanile di Giotto, and the octagonal Baptistery of St. John.

From there, you’ll explore the city’s bustling squares, such as the Piazza della Repubblica. This circular piazza boasts an enormous fountain at its heart, encircled by historic cafes and quaint boutiques. Continue to the eclectic Ponte Vecchio before heading to the artistic Uffizi Gallery.

At around mid-afternoon, your tour guide will indicate that it’s time to return. You’ll head back to the Santa Maria Novella Station to board the departing train to Rome. 

✅ Book Tour

Rome to Florence: High-speed train day trip (4.7/5 – 26 reviews)

On this tour, you’ll depart from Termini Station in Rome at 7:50 am. We suggest you reserve a window seat for optimal views of the scenic Italian countryside. When you arrive at the Santa Maria Novella Station, you’ll be met and welcomed by an English and Spanish-speaking greeter.

This high-speed train tour is a bit different than the previous one, though, as you’ll get to explore Florence at your own pace. There is no set itinerary, so you can simply wander through the medieval streets, spotting Gothic and Renaissance architecture and indulging in local cuisine.

The Historic Centre of Florence is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site , packed with hundreds of years of cultural and artistic prowess. You’ll find many churches, museums, piazzas, and galleries housing artworks from the likes of Michelangelo and Sandro Botticelli.

You’ll have the entire day to experience the city’s best attractions, so make sure you catch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, which is one of the best things to do in Florence at night . Your train departs from Santa Maria Novella Station at 6:38 pm, but this is subject to change.

Note: From April, trains depart from Rome at 7:30 am on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Rome to Florence day tour (4.5/5 – 28 reviews)

Our third suggestion for a Rome to Florence high-speed train day tour also departs from Termini Station at 7:30 am and arrives at the Santa Maria Novella Station. You’ll have the option to pick between a self-guided tour and a guided walking tour with a professional multilingual guide.

The guided tour includes skip-the-line access to the renowned Uffizi Gallery. You’ll spend time admiring magnificent art collections with masterpieces from artists like Giotto, Botticelli, and Cimabue. Afterward, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the city’s rich tapestry of historical treasures from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

Wander around the enchanting piazza, delight in mouthwatering Tuscan cuisine at local cafes, and marvel at the city’s breathtaking architecture. End your day with a stroll back to the Santa Maria Novella Station. Your train will arrive back in Rome at around 7:30 pm. 

Note: This tour requires you to arrive at the meet-up spot in Rome, in front of Caffè Trombetta, at least 30 minutes before the train’s scheduled departure time.

Staying longer? Consider taking these day trips from Florence

Florence can be considered a gateway to charming towns and other major cities in Northern Italy. If you’ll be in Florence for a few days, we suggest you take some of these day trips.

Florence to San Marino day trip

Surrounded by Italy, San Marino is one of the smallest countries in the world. But don’t let that fool you. This microstate boasts a lot of history and culture comparable with any other nation. Take a day trip from Florence to San Marino and discover its hilltop, medieval old town.

Day trip from Florence: Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, and lunch at a winery

If you love history, art, and decadent Tuscan food and wines, this day trip is perfect for you. On this Tuscany day tour, you’ll enjoy wandering around the medieval city of Siena , marveling at the towers of San Gimignano and admiring the dramatic architecture of Pisa .

Cinque Terre day trip from Florence with optional hiking

The seaside paradise of Cinque Terre is about two to three hours away from Florence. This string of UNESCO-listed hillside towns boasts colorful houses, pristine white-sand beaches, and a rugged coastline perfect for hiking.

On this day trip , you’ll spend most of your time walking the narrow street, sunbathing, and soaking up the unspoiled views of the Italian Riviera .

Chianti wine tour from Florence

Wine lovers will love exploring Tuscany’s lush vineyards and tasting exceptional wine. This amazing wine-tasting day trip takes you to the Chianti Wine Regions, where you’ll indulge in award-winning wines and traditional food while overlooking rolling hills of grape-filled vineyards and villas.

Rome to Florence high-speed train day trip: FAQs

Day trips often require a lot of planning. From arranging transportation to creating a well-thought-out itinerary, it can all be quite overwhelming. But don’t stress, we’ve put together a few frequently asked questions about day trips from Rome to Florence to help you out.

Is it worth it to do a day trip from Rome to Florence?

Absolutely! As we mentioned before, Rome and Florence offer different experiences in Italy. Although you’ll find that both cities have ancient landmarks, museums, and galleries, each of these highlights displays the city’s unique culture, history, and heritage.

What is the best route from Rome to Florence?

The best way to travel from Rome to Florence is via a high-speed train from Termini Station to Santa Maria Novella Station. This takes about 90 minutes, one-way.

How many trains a day from Rome to Florence?

This is a very popular day trip from Rome, so you can expect more than 60 trains per day traveling between the Italian capital and Florence. More than one train leaves Rome each hour, but this is less frequent on weekends and during the holiday season. 

Do I need to book a train from Rome to Florence in advance?

Yes. Booking your train ticket beforehand will save you lots of time at the station. During the peak season in Italy, these train tickets are very sought-after, and that can cause some delays.

Wrapping up the best high speed train day trip from Rome to Florence

Taking a day trip from Rome to Florence is one of the best ways to see the nation’s lush countryside and spend time in one of the most beautiful cities in Italy . And there is no better way of doing this than by taking a high-speed train from the capital.

Florence is the undisputed cradle of the Italian Renaissance. It’s known for being home to world-class art, historical landmarks, and medieval architecture that will blow you away. And if you’ll be spending two or three days in Florence , there are more epic day trips awaiting you.

Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll around Florence while admiring its Renaissance architecture or you’d like to indulge in Tuscan cuisine, nothing beats a day trip from Rome.

More Italy Travel Guides

• Italy travel guide
• Italy itinerary 7 days
• Italy itinerary 2 weeks
• Tuscany itinerary 7 days

Pin: Day trip from Rome to Florence 

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Rome to Florence: How to Get There + Tips

Home » Blog » Europe » Italy » Rome to Florence: How to Get There + Tips

Traveling from Rome to Florence is a straightforward commute with a variety of different travel options. In this guide, we break down all the different modes of transportation between the two cities to have a seamless journey.

Rome and Florence both serve as historic and artistic epicenters of Italy, separated by just a few hundred kilometers and thousands of years of history. 

As they’re each considered one of the best cities to visit in Europe , many travelers make their way from Rome to Florence while galavanting around Italy.

Plus, after exploring over 2000 years of history among all the incredible things to do in Rome , continuing your journey through history in Florence is a no-brainer.

In this guide, we’ve outlined all the different transportation options to get from Rome to Florence so you can find the best mode for your specific trip and budget.

Rome to Florence

• By private transfer
• Guided tours

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We’ve spent a collective 6+ months living in and traveling around Italy, and we’ve been able to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!

We’ve compiled our experience to create a classic Italy itinerary that hits the top destinations for first time visitors. Our itinerary is spread out over 10 days and includes the highlights of Rome, Cinque Terre, Florence and Venice .

We’ll send you our complete 10-day itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  classic Italy itinerary  today!

Rome to Florence by plane

Flying from Rome to Florence is straightforward with direct routes and multiple daily departures. 

If you’re choosing to fly, be sure to factor in the cost of airport transfers and all the additional transit time that comes with air travel, to be sure it’s best for your trip.

Airlines and airports

ITA Airways is the main airline with services from Rome to Florence.

Planes depart from the Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and arrive at the Florence Airport (FLR) in just 55-minutes . 

Ticket cost

Expect to pay around €75 for a one-way flight from Rome to Florence . If you need to check a bag or have a specific departure time in mind, expect to pay more.

The price is consistent year-round and doesn’t vary during the off-season or during the week. You can book a ticket directly from the ITA Airways website .

Rome to Florence by train

The train is the most popular way to get from Rome to Florence. There are dozens of departures daily so you’ll have lots of flexibility in your timing. 

Railway options

Italiarail, Italo, and Trenitalia are the main railway providers with comfortable and reliable services to Florence. 

These trains depart from Roma Termini, the main train station in Rome’s city center, starting around 5:30 a.m. and arrive at the Santa Maria Novella Station in Florence well into the late evening. 

Amenities, travel times, and departures/arrivals will vary depending on the provider, but they’re pretty comparable in terms of comfortability and cost.

Italo alone has 30 trains daily to Florence, add that to the dozens of routes from Trenitalia and Italiarail, and you have plenty of options to choose from.

High speed trains vs. commuter trains

There are two different types of trains that service the route from Rome to Florence: high-speed and commuter.

The high-speed routes are specifically tailored for tourists to get to Florence as quickly as possible and are direct. These are the preferred services for traveling between Rome and Florence. 

The commuter trains cater to locals, make more frequent stops, take much longer, but are a bit more budget-friendly than the high-speed services. You can expect a ride to take 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Trenitalia and Italiarail offer both high speed and commuter trains. Italo is privately owned and only offers high-speed trains.

How long does the high speed train take from Rome to Florence?

The fastest train from Rome to Florence takes 1 hour and 36 minutes .

How to book : You can book train tickets at Roma Termini Station when you arrive or book online, in advance through Italo , Italiarail , or Trenitalia . We recommend booking online as it’s super easy to search routes and book anytime.

Insider Tip: You can use the Trenitalia app to book your train tickets up to immediately before boarding. Just be sure you enter the train station names in Italian. The main station in central Florence is Santa Maria Novella, listed as ‘Firenze S. M. Novella.’ Rome is ‘Roma – Termini.’  

Good to know : Italo high-speed routes must be booked in advance as it’s a privately-owned company.

Prices for the regional/commuter trains start at €21.75 for a one way route. Italo’s high speed trains start at €30 and a ride on Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa (high speed) starts at around €36.

Keep in mind ticket prices depend on departure time, type of route, and type of class, so the prices will fluctuate depending on what you book.

Rome to Florence by bus

Itabus , Flixbus , and Marino Bus are the three main bus companies with services from Rome to Florence. They all have affordable and comparable services, so there’s a ton of flexibility when it comes to grabbing a seat.

While bus travel typically has a bad rep, Italian bus services offer comfortable rides with ample legroom and differing amenities depending on what you book: A/C, Wifi, snacks, reclinable seats, to name a few.

Most buses leave from Roma Tiburtina Station (some Roma Termini) and arrive at the Florence Villa Costanza Bus Station. The journey typically takes 3 hours, 15 minutes with multiple breaks along the way.

Ticket prices range from €5 – 21 ($5.46 – 22.91 USD) depending on the time and carrier you book with. 

No matter when you book, bus tickets are always affordable going to Florence, which is a huge plus. You can book them directly at the bus station or you can guarantee yourself a good seat and departure time by using Bookaway .

Rome to Florence by car

If you don’t want to rely on public transport and get to Florence on your own time, a rental car is a viable option. Especially if you want to make a road trip out of the journey and make stops along the route.

Self-driving routes from Rome to Florence

Rome and Florence are separated by over 270 km (167 miles) and connected by two routes: A1/E35 and the Raccordo Autostradale Firenze. 

Tip: Keep cash or card on you as both routes include tolls.

The most straightforward route is along the A1/E35 . It’s 271 km (168 miles) and takes just over 3 hours in normal traffic. It’s a scenic route as you pass through Orvieto, Arezzo, and many other small towns. 

The other option is the Raccordo Autostradale Firenze. It’s about 305 km (217 miles) and takes 3 hours and 26 minutes to get to Florence. It follows the same route most of the way as the A1, but instead of continuing north near Arezzo, it travels through the main Tuscan wine region.

Good to know: Getting to Florence with your own car rental is straightforward, however it’s important to note that driving in both Rome and Florence is a bit more complicated. And Florence doesn’t allow unauthorized cars in their city center. 

Getting a rental car in Rome

If you’re interested in using a rental car to get from Rome to Florence, the best place to start your search is Discover Cars . From their site you can compare pricing with all the big rental companies in Rome and all the different pick-up options around the city.

Search & Compare Rental Car Prices

• Discover Cars : We personally use this aggregate site to compare rental car prices from all the big name companies and get the best price possible. 
• Booking.com :  We’ve had good experiences finding rental cars with this site (formerly RentalCars.com) in the past. 

When inputting all your details to find a car, be sure to note if you’re doing a roundtrip rental from Rome or a one-way rental to Florence. A lot of companies offer a one-way option for a surcharge, but a handful do not, so keep that in mind.

Taking a taxi from Rome to Florence

One of the most expensive ways to get from Rome to Florence is by taxi.

A one-way route will likely run you back roughly a few hundred euro and take about 3 hours in normal traffic. This can be a good option if you’re traveling in a group and can split the cost of a taxi, or if you have room in your budget for a straightforward mode of transport.

You cannot hail a taxi from the street in Rome. You’ll need to go to one of the taxi stands around the city or use an app like FreeNow or ChiamaTaxi to arrange a ride.

Alternative driving options

Lyft does not operate in Rome . Uber is an option, however it’s only Uber Black, Uber Lux, or Uber Van. All of which cost significantly more than using a regular taxi in Rome.

Note that when using the Uber App, if there are no Uber drivers available, they will connect you with a local cab instead.

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Italy !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Italy trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Rome to Florence by private transfer

The most straightforward and seamless way to get from Rome to Florence is with a private transfer.

Out of all the transport options, this is the most expensive one, but it can be reasonably priced if you’re in a larger group. By using this service, you have the benefit of being picked up directly from your hotel or airport in Rome and taken straight to your hotel in Florence.

In normal traffic, it will take you nearly 3 hours to get there if there is normal traffic. So while it isn’t the most efficient option, if you have the time to give, it may work for your trip.

Our go-to service for private transfers is Bookaway . They offer top-notch services, and we’ve enjoyed the seamlessness and quality of their services to travel around.

Guided tours from Rome to Florence

An interesting and unique way to get to Florence is by joining a guided tour. They offer a more well-rounded experience where you can explore the city hands-free.

• From Rome: Day Trip to Florence with Lunch & Accademia Entry : Join an expert guide as you explore the Accademia Gallery, Piazzale Michelangelo, and get to know the city’s historic center. Once you work up an appetite, you’ll indulge in an authentic lunch with local wine before heading back to Rome.
• Florence: Full-Day Trip by High-Speed Train from Rome : On this full-day trip you’ll join a local guide and go on a walking tour of the city visiting the Uffizi Gallery, Piazza del Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Afterwards, explore the city center at your own relaxed pace.

Psst! Looking for other adventures just outside the city? We put together the ultimate list of best day trips from Rome and best day trips from Florence to give you some fun ideas!

FAQs about traveling from Rome to Florence

We’ve covered a ton in this guide for getting to Florence, but here are answers to any more questions you may have.

What is the easiest way to get from Rome to Florence?

The train is the easiest way to get from Rome to Florence.

What is the quickest way to travel from Rome to Florence?

The high-speed train is the fastest way to get from Rome to Florence. The trip takes just 1 hour and 36 minutes.

Do I need to book a train from Rome to Florence in advance?

Not necessarily . There are dozens of trains departing daily and they are not likely to overbook, even during high season. 

However, we’d recommend booking 1-2 days in advance if you can, to have the most options for choosing your seats, etc. But you can purchase train tickets up to the time they arrive, so technically there is no need to book in advance. 

Is the train from Rome to Florence scenic?

Yes ! During your ride you’ll pass through the scenic Tuscan countryside with rolling wine hills and medieval villages.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Rome to Florence?

Buses are the cheapest way to travel from Rome to Florence.

Is a day trip from Rome to Florence worth it?

In our opinion, Florence is worth much more than a single day trip. There is so much incredible history and fun things to do in Florence , we’d recommend prioritizing travel to Florence over Rome. 

In our opinion, you can easily see the highlights of Rome in just a few days, but Florence deserves at least a week. 

Is there a direct train from Rome to Florence?

Yes . There are numerous direct trains that leave Rome daily. Check Italo , Italiarail , or Trenitalia for daily schedules and pricing. 

Is it better to fly into Rome or Florence?

The answer to this question depends mostly on your itinerary, as well as your budget and travel style. 

Traveling between the two cities is quick and easy, so you really can’t go wrong with flying into either one. 

Is Florence worth visiting?

HECK YES! As the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to some of the world’s most magnificent pieces of art, you could wander the city for years and never run out of things to do .

Are you planning a trip to Italy?

We have lots of resources on travel in Italy and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Italy Homepage  for everything you need to know, or start by reading some of our favorite Italy articles here:

• Classic 10-day Italy Itinerary
• Best Things to Do in Rome (on your first visit!)
• Where to Stay in Rome: Neighborhood Guide + Best Hotels
• Best Things to Do in Florence (you won’t want to miss!)
• Unforgettable Things to Do in Tuscany

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We want to hear from you!

Are you planning a trip from Rome to Florence and still have questions? Comment below and we’ll do our best to find you the answers you’re looking for!

Comments (2) on “ Rome to Florence: How to Get There + Tips ”

The fastest way to get from Rome to Florence is to take the high-speed train. It takes only 1.5 hours to get from the center of Rome to the center of Florence. Any other way of traveling between the cities will take you at least twice as long.High-speed trains run about every 20-30 minutes throughout the day from about 6am to 9pm.There are 2 types of trains between Rome and Florence: high-speed trains and regular trains. High-speed trains cover the distance of 300 km between the cities in 1.5 hours. They do not stop anywhere, stopping only in Rome and Florence. Regular trains, on the other hand, are slower and stop frequently. Because of this, the travel time stretches for 3-4 hours.I always choose only high-speed trains, Since I bought the tickets on the day of the trip, I paid 20€ for the regular train instead of 40€ for the high-speed train. And even though I saved money, the train took twice as long to get there, so I was a bit wrinkled all day. And I won’t talk about the comfort level. So you need to decide what is more important for you – time or money.

Wow, you have done an amazing job of providing a comprehensive and engaging guide for exploring Rome and Florence. You have covered all the important aspects of each mode of transportation, such as cost, time, comfort and convenience. I enjoyed reading your tips and recommendations for each option, as well as seeing your photos. You have inspired me to visit these two beautiful cities soon!

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Rome vs Florence: how to choose the perfect Italian city for you

Feb 8, 2022 • 7 min read

If you only have time to visit Rome or Florence on your trip, how do you choose? Read on for our handy guide © MStudioImages / Getty Images

The delights of both  Rome and Florence are reason enough for a trip to Italy. Each of these romantic cities figures prominently on the bucket lists of travelers worldwide. But if you only have time for one, which should you pick?

A summary of each goes from strength to strength, but vital differences between the two cities will help you in your trip planning. Rome is a heady mix of haunting ruins, awe-inspiring art and vibrant street life . It’s one of the world’s most charismatic cities. But as surprisingly small as Florence is, the riverside city looms large as the cradle of the Renaissance. Florence is magnetic, and its narrow streets evoke a thousand tales .

Let’s see how the two cities stack up.

Which has better art and architecture?

Both Rome and Florence are places of art and architecture. Their masterpieces are nearly countless, and their “second tier” works would be first tier anywhere else.

Discover Rome's epic buildings

Rome’s art begins with the Etruscans and the ancient Romans and continues with its world-class street art today. Consider just two of the extraordinary ancient sites. The Colosseum , Rome’s great gladiatorial amphitheater, encapsulates all the blood and thunder of ancient Rome and 2000 years later remains a model for stadiums the world over. The Pantheon , with its revolutionary design, is an awe-inspiring temple that has served as an architectural blueprint for millennia.

Over at the Vatican, the vast museum complex ’s historic collection of classical art culminates in the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s frescoes are among the world’s most famous works of art. Under his dome at St. Peter’s Basilica , marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà and many other celebrated masterpieces.

Florence is a treasure trove of Renaissance jewels

Florence’s wealth of museums and galleries house many of the world’s most exquisite examples of Renaissance art, and its architecture is unrivaled (do not miss the Duomo ). The Uffizi is one of the world’s most famous art galleries, with rooms devoted to the likes of Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo Da Vinci, Caravaggio and Botticelli. A short stroll away, at the Galleria dell’Accademia , Michelangelo’s David continues to wow the masses just as it did when it was first unveiled in 1504.

These two galleries are not the only repositories of artistic masterpieces in Florence. Churches, chapels and a bevy of lesser-known museums showcase masterpieces galore. The city’s compact size means that almost everything is always just a short stroll away.

The winner:  Oh, it hurts having to choose! Can we call it a draw?

For Renaissance art, nothing compares to Florence. The city has true iconic masterworks that are worth the pilgrimage just to behold them. But Rome is no slouch in this department either. While Florence has Brunelleschi’s dome on the Duomo, the Eternal City has Michelangelo’s dome on St. Peter’s. Plus, Rome has an ancient archeological sites as well as what’s arguably the more vibrant modern art scene. On the basis of breadth across time, we cautiously tip our hat to Rome.

What's the best Italian city for history?

Rome encompasses the course of history, and Florence stars in the Renaissance. Each city has been a prime location for major events across the sweep of time.

Gods, emperors and popes in Rome

From the Roman emperors through the drama of the popes to Mussolini, Rome stars – or at least makes an important appearance – in much of the narrative for the history of European culture.

Rome’s history spans three millennia, from the classical myths of vengeful gods to the follies of Roman emperors, from Renaissance excess and papal plotting to oppressive 20th-century fascism. Everywhere you go in this remarkable city, you’re surrounded by the past. Martial ruins, Renaissance palazzi (mansions) and flamboyant baroque basilicas all have tales to tell: of family feuding, historic upheavals, artistic rivalries, intrigues and dark passions. 

Machinations and Medicis in Florence

Florence’s history centers on the powerful Medici dynasty and the birth of the Renaissance. To this day, it is the Renaissance, with its extraordinary art and architecture, that defines the city and remains Tuscany’s greatest moment.

Each of the characters of this era is memorable: Cosimo the Elder, Lorenzo, Galileo Galilei, Machiavelli, Savonarola and his “Bonfire of the Vanities,” et al. It’s the stuff of the movies, and countless films and TV shows have used the drama of the Florentine Renaissance for their central narrative.

The winner: Rome comes out top here. Tuscany has not been at the cusp of such momentous change since the Renaissance, but Rome features throughout world history and events there continue to shape our lives today.

Is Rome or Florence better for foodies? 

It’s Italy, need we say more about food and wine? Yes, because while you can eat and drink extraordinarily well in both Rome and Florence, the cities have important differences between them.

Try gelato in Rome

Like most Italian cuisines,  cucina romana (Roman cooking) was born of careful adaptation of local ingredients, making use of cheaper cuts of meat, like guanciale (pig’s cheek), and greens that could be gathered wild from the fields. Almost every trattoria and restaurant in Rome will have at least a few classic Roman pasta dishes on the menu. Iconic Roman recipes include carbonara and cacio e pepe (with pecorino romano and black pepper). 

Eating gelato is as much a part of Roman life as morning coffee: try it and you’ll understand why. After dark, Rome has a vibrant nightlife. Romans eat late and then drink at bars before heading off to a club around 1am.

Florence is the home of the Slow Food movement

Florence’s exceptional dining scene ranges from enoteche (wine bars) bursting with cured meats and cheeses to no-nonsense trattorias, bustling food markets, modern Tuscan cafes and innovative top-end restaurants.

The Slow Food movement was born in Tuscany, and the city meets every gastronomic taste with style and panache. The day’s end ushers in aperitivi (pre-dinner drinks), a sacrosanct ritual that’s big and buzzing in Florence. Glasses of stellar chiantis and other Tuscan wines are the norm. Meals feature platters of cured meats, cheeses and pâté-topped toasts, and mains include bistecca alla fiorentina , Florence’s iconic T-bone steak.

Wandering the streets with a fresh gelato made from extraordinary Tuscan ingredients is a ritual, but prowling the city’s cobblestones late at night to party is less so.

The winner:  Rome has Tuscan restaurants, but Florence has few Roman restaurants. Although we’ll officially declare a tie in the narrow category of gelato, in almost every other category (except nightlife) we’ll give the nod to Florence.

Which is easier for day trips?

With fast trains taking about 95 minutes, Rome and Florence are both day trips from the other. But which is best for day trips into the surrounding region when you’re ready to explore beyond the city limits?

Explore lavish villas near Rome

Rome is Rome, why would you leave? the locals say. Local magnificence aside, it might also be the paucity of nearby world-class sights. Out at the nearby coast, Ostia Antica offers a chance to see the remains of a Roman port. Hilltop Tivoli is home to two Unesco World Heritage sites: Villa Adriana , the emperor Hadrian’s colossal country estate, and Villa d’Este , famous for its landscaped gardens and lavish fountains. Or head to the verdant Castelli Romani , which includes Castel Gandolfo, now open to the public by Pope Francis.

But other popular day trips from Rome all require hopping a fast train or a trip on the highways. Orvieto in Umbria has one of Italy’s most awe-inspiring Gothic cathedrals. Farther north, the treasures of Tuscany await. To the south, you'll find  Naples and Pompeii .

Reach Italy's most famous sights from Florence

Day trips from Florence hit an all-star cast of Italian highlights. Pisa has that famous tower , Lucca embodies the medieval walled ideal, Siena is a hilltop paragon of Italian Gothic beauty, Arezzo has art, Chianti pours its incomparable wine – the list goes on and on. Just getting in a car and driving among the hill towns and lush valleys of Tuscany is reason enough to visit.

All of the top sights of the region are easily reached by frequent (and cheap) trains. More active jaunts are well suited for cycling, which you can do independently or on one of many organized tours.

The winner:  Florence easily wins this round given that Tuscany is as tightly packed with fantastic day trips as the city is with art treasures.

You might also like: Florence's must-see museums: from the sublime to the Renaissance Top things to do in Rome Florence's best neighborhoods: dining, duomos and la dolce vita

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Getting from Rome to Florence: stress-free routes, key pit stops & the very best travel times

First time visiting Italy ? You’ll probably have Rome on your itinerary. There’s plenty of things to do in the capital city which is practically a living museum, with a long, rich culture and countless historical sites to its name.

Another popular destination is Florence in Tuscany, the birthplace of the Renaissance and cornerstone of the Italian fashion industry. These two Italian cities are just 170 miles apart and well-connected by car, bus, train and plane. We’ve compared the various ways to get from Rome to Florence to help you plan your next Italian trip.

Rome to Florence by car

Driving from Rome to Florence is as simple as hopping onto the A1 highway and heading north. The drive usually takes around 3-3.5 hours via the most direct route, so we wouldn’t recommend driving if you’re short on time or on a day trip.

However, the drive from Rome to Florence cuts through the Italian countryside of Umbria and Tuscany and is incredibly scenic, perfect for leisurely exploration between the cities. We recommend a full day or longer for this journey–self-driving gives you the luxury to make a few pit stops in any of the quaint, small towns along the way and really soak in the culture of this region.

• Orvieto is perched on a hilltop famous for its cathedral Duomo di Orvieto , historic well Pozza di San Patrizio and Classico white wine.
• Cortona is another hilltop town that’s the main setting of the movie Under the Tuscan Sun and has several museums with Etruscan and diocesan treasures.
• Assisi is the birthplace of St. Francis, one of Italy’s two patron saints, and a UNESCO World Heritage site for its collection of beautiful Fransican churches and Rocca Maggiore , a 14th century hilltop castle.

There are toll booths along the Autostrada which can add to the costs of car rental and gas. Also, both Rome and Florence are very old medieval cities with narrow streets that have not been built for modern traffic.

These old towns in Rome and Florence are also considered Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL) areas, where only local drivers with the right permit are allowed to drive in. You’ll need to return your rental car or find somewhere outside the ZTL to park when exploring these areas.

If you have a large group, limited mobility or just prefer not to drive yourself, another option is to arrange for a private car transfer from Rome to Florence so you can enjoy the journey without having to worry about the logistics of car rental. Some of these transfers also offer tours and stopovers in the small towns along the way.

Rome to Florence by bus

The bus journey from Rome’s Tiburtina to Villa Costanza in Florence takes about 3-4 hours depending on the time of day. These buses are large air-conditioned coaches with comfortable seats and are usually the cheapest option to get from Rome to Florence–prices average between $10 and $20 but can drop as low as $5 during promotions and up to $30 during peak timings. Flixbus and Itabus have frequent departures and generally cheaper tickets; other bus companies that offer limited Rome to Florence routes include MarinoBus and Autoservizi Salemi.

There are overnight buses between Rome and Florence–some might consider this option to save on a night’s accommodation. However, the bus stations are located outside the historic city centers–Rome’s Tiburtina is a 6-minute metro ride from downtown Termini while a 10-minute tram ride connects Villa Costanza to the old town of Florence.

Public buses and trams typically stop operating at midnight and start at around 5.30 a.m., so you’ll need to plan for a taxi or private car transfer if you travel during the wee hours.

Rome to Florence by train

Train is perhaps the most convenient way to get from Rome to Florence. The high-speed train journey by Frecciarossa or Italo takes about 1.5 hours from Rome’s Termini or Tiburtina to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella (sometimes displayed as Firenze S.M.N.), both of which are near their respective city centers.

There are many high-speed train journeys in a day, and the short travel time means you can do a day trip from Rome to Florence if you have a tight schedule, but we recommend spending a few days in each city given the sheer number of things to do. Reservations are required for high-speed trains. Prices can be cheaper if you book in advance or pick less popular timings.

Trenitalia also operates regional trains between Rome and Florence–these journeys typically average around 4 hours as there may be more stops and transfers required, but you can better appreciate the scenic countryside around you instead of just zipping through it.

While the regional train journeys take longer, they are about 30% cheaper than the high-speed trains and don’t require reservations. This is a good option if you have a more flexible schedule and want to stop in some of the smaller towns along the way.

Rome to Florence by plane

ITA Airways operates direct domestic flights from Rome’s Fiumicino Airport to Florence Airport that takes just 55 minutes. However, both airports are located about 30-60 minutes away from their respective town centers, and considering the hassle of airport procedures, it’s not recommended for domestic travelers. Flights also cost significantly more than train and bus tickets at around $130 on average.

Several European cities offer direct flights to Florence’s international airport, but most international visitors will fly into Rome–a flight would make sense if you want to transit to Florence and start your trip from there.

Best way to get from Rome to Florence

For day trippers and time-strapped travelers: The high-speed train is the fastest way to get from Rome to Florence at a reasonable price, and also the most convenient way as it connects the city centers.

For slow, independent travelers with time to spare: Self-driving by car gives you the most flexibility to explore the towns between Rome and Florence and get off the beaten track, but you’ll need to ditch the car once in the cities. Those who can’t drive can consider the regional trains instead.

For budget travelers: Buses are the cheapest way to travel between Rome and Florence and while you have the option to save on lodging by taking an overnight bus, you’ll need to time it to the hours that public transportation can connect you from the bus stations to the city centers to keep costs low.

For international travelers in transit: For visitors that fly into Rome’s Fiumicino airport, a short connecting flight to Florence saves you the hassle of getting to the bus or train station in the downtown area.

For large groups or those with limited mobility: Private car transfer is the most cost-efficient, flexible and fuss-free way for those in large family groups, and you can make prior arrangements beforehand for wheelchair accessibility and child seats if needed.

Recommended tours and activities

More like this:

• 7 days in Italy: How to see Venice, Florence and Rome in a week
• How to get around Rome: Public transportation and other options
• Best catacombs to visit in Rome

How to Travel from Rome to Florence by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

TripSavvy /  Hilary Allison

Rome and Florence are two of Italy's most historic cities, separated by several centuries and 174 miles. The ruins of Rome hark back to its days as the then-capital of civilization over 2,000 years ago, while Florence flourished much later as the birthplace of the Renaissance. Both cities boast art, churches, history, and cuisine unlike anywhere else in the world, and a visit to both is standard for most travelers coming to Italy .

Thankfully, Rome and Florence are easily connected by the train and you can reach one from the other in under two hours. The bus takes more than twice as long, but it's the cheapest way to move between them. A car is fun to explore the Tuscan countryside and for day trips, but it's a headache to have in the city. There are also direct flights, but they're pricey and end up taking longer than the train.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Rome to Florence?

Travelers on a budget can use the bus for travel to Florence for dirt cheap prices on FlixBus , sometimes for as low as $10. It takes about two to three hours longer than the train, but it's a viable option when euros are running short, especially for last-minute plans. Trains and buses both go up in price as your travel date gets closer, but if you're flexible with your departure time, you can often find bus tickets for under $20 even for same-day trips.

Buses leave Rome from Tiburtina station and arrive in Florence at Villa Costanza, which is about 25 minutes outside of the city center and accessible via the local tram, which takes passengers to the main train station. The tram only runs from 5:30 a.m. until midnight, so think twice before booking a late-night bus that arrives in Florence in the early morning or you may be stuck hiring a taxi, totally negating your savings by using the bus.

 What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Rome to Florence?

The easiest way to travel around Italy is, without a doubt, the train, especially when traveling between major cities like Rome and Florence. Trains are comfortable, fast, and affordable—especially when booked with advance notice—and are the transport of choice for locals and visitors alike.

You can reserve a train through Italy's state-run rail service, Trenitalia , or the privately owned Italo . Both companies are comparable in price and comfort, so look at tickets on both websites before making your purchase. You can also use RailEurope to compare the two companies on one website, although RailEurope charges a small commission when checking out. Less expensive regional trains are also an option, but they take two to four hours and do not have reserved seats.

Trenitalia trains leave from Termini and Tiburtina stations in Rome, while Italo trains depart from Tiburtina and Ostiense stations. If you're staying in Rome near Termini or Ostiense, choose the respective company that serves that station in order to avoid crossing the entire city with all of your luggage.

All trains arrive in Florence Santa Maria Novella Station —sometimes written as "Firenze SMN"—the main station of the Tuscan capital. This accessible city is easily traversed on foot, although taxis are allowed to enter the car-free city center if you need to haul luggage to your hotel.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

You won't need a car in Florence, and in fact, you can't even bring your vehicle into the historic city center, so having a car can actually be more of a headache than it's worth. Plus, trying to get out of the madness of Rome in a car is every driver's worst nightmare. When you add up the costs of the rental, gas, and tolls on Italy's autostrada highways, driving isn't very cost-effective either.

Despite the inconveniences, the journey from Rome to Florence is a beautiful one, passing through the rich countryside of Umbria and Tuscany. And even though you can enjoy the same scenery from the window of a train or bus, only a car gives you the flexibility to stop in the charming Italian villages you'll pass along the way to enjoy a hearty lunch and a local Chianti wine. You can also take day trips from Florence if you have your own vehicle, such as to nearby Pisa with its famous leaning tower or Siena .

How Long Is the Flight?

Direct flights by Alitalia get you from Leonardo da Vinci Airport (FCO) in Rome to Florence Airport (FLR) in under an hour, but the total travel time taking into account transport to the airport, checking in, going through security, and waiting at the gate is actually much longer. The train is clearly the winner in terms of transport, taking only 30 minutes more but shuttling passengers directly from city center to city center. Plus, low-cost airlines don't fly to Florence, so in addition to being more of a hassle, the flight is also significantly more expensive.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Florence?

Florence is one of those cities that seems to be always packed with tourists, so the best time to visit is really a question of visiting when the city is busy or very busy . Late spring to early fall is the high season, especially the summer months when it's full of study abroad students and the temperatures are uncomfortably hot. Winter and early spring are when there are fewer tourists but the weather is more likely to be cold and rainy. To balance out crowds with the climate, aim for a trip in March or April, making sure to avoid the week leading up to Easter when most schools are on break.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

The easiest way to travel from the airport to Florence is via the Volainbus, which shuttles passengers directly to the Florence Train Station. Since only taxis are allowed in the historic center, you'll need to take a cab if you want door-to-door service. The taxi fare from the airport is a set price that varies based on the time of day, but it starts at 22 euros—or about $26—for daytime rides, plus a small supplement for pieces of luggage.

What Is There to Do in Florence?

Lovers of art, history, food, wine, culture, and shopping all have something to enjoy in Florence. The local cathedral, or Duomo , is one of the most impressive in all of Italy with its bright pink and green facade and massive brick dome. The Ponte Vecchio , or Old Bridge, is the only remaining bridge from Florence's medieval days, offering unbeatable views of the city along the Arno River. The Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell'Accademia are two of the most important art museums in Europe, the latter of which is home to Michaelangelo's "David" . Travelers who love to shop will have plenty to keep themselves busy with while in Florence, from street stalls selling local handicrafts and genuine leather to high-end designer products, such as the original Gucci store. Apart from renowned Tuscan wines, other local items to try include artichoke panini, any kind of gelato, and the mouthwatering Florentine steak.

The distance between the two cities is 174 miles.

The three-hour drive is scenic, taking you through Umbria and Tuscany, but in the two city centers, it can be hectic.

Rome and Florence are connected by a train that takes 1.5 hours. You can choose from a few different companies to find prices and schedules that suit your trip.

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Fearlessly Italy

Rome vs Florence: Which City Should You Visit?

Some people might say that Rome is better because it’s the eternal city, while others may prefer Florence because it’s the birthplace of the Renaissance and thus they consider it the most beautiful city in Italy. But which one is really better to visit, Rome or Florence?

Both Rome and Florence have a lot to offer and it really depends on what you’re looking for. They both are packed with art, boast a long history, have plenty of great restaurants, are blessed with fantastic local dishes, and are some of the best places to propose in Italy .

Thankfully, in most Italy classic itineraries , both cities are included. However, if you are planning a shorter trip, you might need to decide whether you want to visit Florence or Rome.

Here is a comparison of the two cities based on things like culture, food, and nightlife. So, you can make an informed decision when comparing Rome vs Florence. Let’s get started!

Make sure you read our tips to plan a perfect trip to Italy .

Table of Contents

Choose Rome vs Florence if:

Large cities don’t scare you.

There are many reasons to choose a large city over a smaller one. For example, Rome offers a wealth of historical and cultural sights that is simply not available in a smaller town like Florence.

Rome offers a huge variety of experiences and things to see. Apart from the Centro Storico teaming with tourists from the world over, there are also lesser-known neighborhoods but extremely fascinating to explore.

Districts such as Testaccio and Ostiense are not far from the city center and easy to reach to a pity to miss.

So, if large cities don’t scare you but appeal to you, you should definitely plan your holiday in Rome and enjoy all that the eternal city has to offer.

You are a history buff

When it comes to historical cities, Rome and Florence are two of the most popular destinations in Europe. Both cities are filled with ancient ruins, world-famous museums, and an abundance of charm. So, which city should you visit if you’re a history buff?

If you’re looking for a truly immersive experience, Rome is a clear choice. The city has been home to some of the most important events in Western history, and it shows. From the Colosseum to the Pantheon, every step you take in Rome feels like a journey through time.

In Florence, you’ll also find plenty of incredible historical sites, but the city feels more modern than Rome. It’s also worth noting that Florence is significantly smaller than Rome, so it’s easier to see everything at a leisurely pace.

In the end, the choice between Rome and Florence depends on your personal preferences. If you want to immerse yourself in history, explore the famous landmarks in Rome .

You want to discover a variety of hidden gems

Both Rome and Florence offer a wealth of historical and cultural attractions, but they have very different atmospheres.

Directly connected to our reason #1, going off the beaten path in the Italian capital is easier and offers a wider range of activities and experiences.

From world-renowned museums to underground tunnels, rest assured that you’ll never be bored in Rome, whether you’re exploring its ancient ruins or people-watching in one of the many outdoor cafes.

Choose Florence if you want a more relaxed vacation, where you can enjoy the city’s art and architecture at your own pace. But if you’re looking for a more offbeat city break, pick Rome.

You want to visit ancient cities and villas

If you’re interested in visiting ancient cities and villas, Rome is the clear choice over Florence. In Rome, you can explore the ruins of Ostia Antica, the city’s ancient port, or take a day trip to Tivoli to see the magnificent Villa Adriana and Villa d’Este.

Being the capital of an ancient empire, it’s only normal that you can find plenty of archaeological ruins in the surroundings of Rome as well as cities that played a pivotal role during the Papal Kingdom such as Viterbo.

Make sure you check out our article on the best places to visit around Rome .

You want to visit the Vatican

There are many reasons to choose Rome over Florence as a travel destination, and wanting to visit the Vatican is a pretty obvious one.

While Florence is home to some beautiful churches and cathedrals, it doesn’t have anything that can compare to the majesty of the Vatican and its Saint Peter’s Basilica .

The Vatican is not only the seat of the Catholic Church, but it’s also home to one of the largest and most significant museums in the world.

With its countless works of art and incredible architecture, a visit to the Vatican is an unforgettable experience. So if you’re looking for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, make sure to add the Vatican to your list of places to see in Rome.

You are a foodie

When it comes to food, there is no city in Italy that can compare to Rome. From world-renowned dishes like spaghetti alla carbonara and tonnarelli cacio e pepe to more humble fares like street food supplì and trippa alla romana, the Eternal City offers something for every taste.

And with so many great restaurants in Rome to choose from, you’ll never go hungry. Florence may have its share of good eats , but when it comes to dining, Rome is in a league of its own.

Don’t miss our article on the traditional dishes of every Italian region .

You want to head to southern Italy

If you’re looking to head to southern Italy and visit places like Naples, the Amalfi Coast or regions like Puglia, Basilicata or Sicily, it’s easier from Rome. Whether you rented a car or you want to use local public transport such as trains and coaches.

Rome is more central, so it’s easier to reach other destinations in the southern Italian regions. And it’s closer to the coast, so you can enjoy Mediterranean beaches as well as city sights.

You are on a budget

Planning properly, even if you are traveling on a shoestring, you can make a trip to both Florence and Rome. But when it comes to more affordable budget travel, Rome has the edge. From accommodation to restaurants, there are more budget choices in Rome than in Florence.

And while Florence may be smaller, it can actually be more expensive to get around, with higher taxi fares than in Rome and slightly more expensive public transport costs.

So if you’re looking to stretch your travel dollars further, Rome is the better choice. With its abundance of budget-friendly accommodation and restaurant options as well as plenty of free things to do , you can enjoy all the city has to offer without breaking the bank.

Choose Florence vs Rome if:

You prefer smaller cities.

If you’re looking for a smaller, more intimate city experience on your next Italian vacation, Florence is the perfect choice over Rome.

Not only is it less crowded, making it easier to navigate and enjoy the sights at your own pace, but it also has a more manageable size when it comes to exploring on foot.

You’ll find that you can cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time without feeling exhausted, leaving plenty of time to enjoy a leisurely lunch or an afternoon gelato. So if you can only stay one or two days in Florence , you can certainly manage to visit much of it.

And while Florence may not have as many world-famous sights as its larger counterpart, it more than makes up for it with its charming streets, beautiful churches, and incredible art museums. So if you’re looking for a city that feels like a home away from home, be sure to add Florence to your list.

You are more into art

If you’re looking for a city that’s rich in art, you can’t go wrong with Florence. The city is home to some of the most famous art museums in the world, including the Uffizi and the Accademia.

You’ll also find plenty of incredible architecture, from the Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore to the Ponte Vecchio. And of course, let’s not forget about the Renaissance.

Florence was at the heart of this incredible period of cultural and artistic achievement. In short, if you’re looking for a city that overflows with art, Florence is the place for you.

You prefer everything within walking reach

Are you the type of traveler who likes to be able to walk to everything rather than taking public transportation or driving? Then Florence is definitely the city for you.

Everything from the Duomo to Michelangelo’s David is located in the city center, and it’s easy to explore on foot. Rome, on the other hand, is a much larger city, and while there are plenty of things to see and do within walking distance of the historic center, you’ll likely have to use public transportation to get around.

So if you’re looking for a city where you can do a lot of walking and sightseeing without having to worry about getting around, Florence is the place for you.

You want to visit small medieval towns

If you’re looking for an authentic Italian experience with easy access to small medieval towns, then Florence is the better choice.

The city is located in the heart of Tuscany and fantastic cities such as Siena , Pisa and Lucca are an easy day trip to take by train.

Many day trips from Florence include quaint hill towns and villages such as San Gimignano and Volterra. Some are easy to book via train or coach while for others I would suggest joining a guided tour.

You want to explore the countryside

If you’re looking to explore the Italian countryside, you should definitely choose Florence over Rome. Not only is Florence surrounded by beautiful Tuscan hills, but it’s also home to some of the most famous wineries in the world.

The Tuscan countryside is possibly as famous as Florence itself and attracts thousands every year. Whether you want to enjoy an easy hike on a hilltop, a couple of days at a thermal spring, or explore the local vineyards, if you are a countryside lover, this time, Florence beats Rome.

Some places might be difficult to reach if you don’t have your own car. You can either rent one in Florence for the day or join a private tour such as this one or this one .

You are into wine

With its sprawling vineyards and picturesque villages, the Chianti region of Italy is a must-visit for any wine lover. And while both Florence and Rome have each their own wine regions (Rome with its famous Castelli), the world-famous Chianti wineries are a favorite day trip from Florence.

Whether you are driving your own car or joining a guided tour , the scenic Chianti region is easy to visit from Florence and an experience any wine lover would love to make.

Boasting a number of world-class wineries such as Antinori and Frescobaldi, if you are a fan of Italian wine, you definitely don’t want to miss going wine tasting in the Chianti region.

You want to head to northern Italy

Florence is located in the northern part of Italy, while Rome is more central. This means that from Florence it’s easier to reach the northern regions of Italy such as Liguria for a hike in the Cinque Terre , the city of Bologna in Emilia Romagna, Milan , Turin and even Trentino Alto Adige to discover the gorgeous Dolomites .

What you are going to find in both Rome AND Florence

Large crowds.

Florence and Rome are known for their rich culture and history. Both Florence and Rome are very popular tourist destinations in Italy, so you can expect large crowds in both cities especially in the high season, usually July and August.

Florence and Rome are both renowned for their delicious food. From Florence’s mouthwatering Florentine steak to Rome’s iconic spaghetti carbonara, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Both cities offer a wide variety of traditional dishes that are sure to satisfy your hunger.

Florence is home to the world-famous bistecca alla fiorentina, a massive grilled steak that is sure to fill you up. Rome, on the other hand, is renowned for its offal-based dishes from its cucina povera (poor man’s cuisine) tradition and also for its Roman-style pizza featuring a thin crust and a variety of fresh toppings. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find great food in both Florence and Rome.

Artisan gelato

If there is one attraction that these cities have in common is definitely artisan gelato. Just like everything else in Italy, gelato is made with only the finest ingredients and craftsmanship.

Whether you want a traditional flavor like chocolate or pistachio, or something more adventurous like lavender or whiskey-infused gelato, you’re sure to find it in Florence or Rome. So don’t forget to save room for dessert on your next trip to Italy!

Plenty of art

There’s no denying that Florence and Rome are two of the most art-rich cities in the world. Whether you’re looking at Florence cathedral or a notable Roman building such as Palazzo Barberini , it’s impossible to miss the fact that both Florence and Rome are overflowing with artistic history.

Florence and Rome continue to be major centers for the arts with world-renowned museums like the Uffizi Gallery and the Vatican Museums. Apart from the museums, don’t forget that there is also plenty of open-air artwork such as gorgeous piazzas, palaces that are architectural jewels, and fabulous fountains.

If you’re looking for a dose of fine art and world-famous masterpieces on your next trip to Italy, you can’t go wrong with either Florence or Rome.

Rich culture

Florence and Rome are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, and it’s easy to see why. Both cities offer a rich and vibrant culture that is steeped in history.

Apart from some of the world’s most famous Renaissance art in Florence and majestic ancient ruins in Rome , both cities boast a vibrant culture where old and new blend perfectly.

So not only BC times but also great street art, the vestiges of a bygone industrial archaeology and more modern history make a trip to both Rome and Florence a fascinating experience.

Historical landmarks

Both Florence and Romes are home to a wealth of historical landmarks, from ancient ruins to Renaissance palaces.

Florence is perhaps best known for its art museums, which house some of the world’s most famous paintings and sculptures, but let’s not forget buildings such as Palazzo della Signoria or Palazzo Pitti, all precious sights if you want to dig into the local history.

Rome, on the other hand, is renowned for its ancient ruins, including the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. But the Italian capital is also packed with more modern palaces and buildings that testify of its long and continuously historical value.

Amazing architecture

Florence and Rome are two of the most influential cities in the world when it comes to art. They are home to the masterpieces of the most famous Italian artists, including Michelangelo, Bernini , Borromini , Caravaggio , Raphael, and Botticelli.

These artists have left an indelible mark on the world of arts, and their work can be found in both Florence and Rome.

Florence is particularly known for its magnificent Renaissance art, while Rome is home to some of the most iconic Baroque masterpieces. No matter what type of art you’re interested in, you’re sure to find it in Florence or Rome.

Florence and Rome have a vibrant nightlife scene. In Florence, visitors can enjoy live music in one of the many bars and clubs located in the city center.

For those who want to experience something truly unique, there is also the opportunity to enjoy the evenings in both cities with an aperitif.

While in Rome, do enjoy a delicious meal in one of the many restaurants located in the historic center. After dinner, take a stroll through the streets of Rome, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city at night.

Whether you are looking for a clubby night out on the town or a quiet evening spent soaking up the atmosphere of these two amazing cities, you will find what you are looking for in Florence and Rome.

How to travel between Rome and Florence?

The best way to travel between Rome and Florence is by train . It’s the fastest, most efficient, and relatively easiest way.

It takes only about 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach Florence from Rome by the Frecciarossa train. Plus, it’ll get you where you need to go without any hassle and on time.

You can choose to leave Roma Termini and arrive at Firenze S. M. Novella as they are the main stations but you can also get off in smaller stations depending on where is your hotel. The price of the ticket from Rome to Florence with the fast depends on the season and also if you book it well in advance. So it can vary between 20 to 50€.

There are also other ways to travel between Rome and Florence. One option is to take a bus. Bus tickets cost between 7 and 32€ depending on the company and how many stops they make. In this case, the trip usually takes around three to four hours.

Finally, another option is to drive. Driving from Rome to Florence usually takes around three hours. However, keep in mind that driving and bus options can be quite congested during peak times. If you do drive, make sure you check the ZTL (limited traffic zones) in both Rome and Florence.

Is a day trip from Rome to Florence worth it?

A day trip from Rome to Florence is definitely worth it. Especially if you don’t have enough time to stay longer in Italy and can’t devote a few days to Florence, you can consider visiting it as a day trip.

The train takes only an hour and a half and Florence city center is pretty walkable. Even though with only one day in Florence you can’t really see everything, there are plenty of sights to squeeze in a few hours.

Of course, you will have to compromise and decide what are your priorities, but if you want to see as much as you can, probably a guided tour is a wise choice. In two to three hours, a local expert can take you to show the major highlights without wasting time in long lines and trying to find your way.

Florence to Rome travel time?

It depends on how you decide to travel to Florence from Rome. There are two main types of trains that operate between Florence and Rome – the direct fast Frecciarossa trains, and the “regionale veloce” trains.

The direct fast trains are the quickest option, with a journey time of just 1 hour and 20 minutes. These trains operate on a non-stop basis. So, you’ll be able to sit back and relax on your journey. However, unless you find a time-sensitive promotion, tickets for these trains are more expensive than regional trains.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, then the regional train is a good choice. These trains make several stops along the way, so the journey takes a bit longer (3-4 hours). But ticket prices are usually cheaper at about 10 to 15€.

How many days in Rome vs Florence?

There is no easy answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, including your interests and what you want to see and do while in each city.

That said, as a general guide, we would recommend allowing at least 2-3 days for Florence and 4-7 days for Rome. Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and there is simply so much to see and do.

Rome or Florence for Christmas?

If you’re looking for a traditional Italian Christmas, then you can’t go wrong with either Rome or Florence. Both cities offer a festive atmosphere and plenty of activities to enjoy during the holiday season.

In Rome, you can visit famous landmarks such as the Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica, which are decked out in holiday decorations this time of year.

There are also plenty of Christmas markets to browse and lovely nativity scenes to admire in both cities.

Living in Rome vs Florence

If you’re looking for a bustling, cosmopolitan city with plenty of things to do, Rome is the place for you. It’s Italy’s capital and largest city, so you’ll find a greater variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and attractions than in Florence.

And because it’s such a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, you’ll have no trouble meeting people from different backgrounds and cultures living in Rome. There are also more options for nightlife and entertainment.

On the other hand, Florence may be smaller and more contained, but it packs a punch when it comes to culture and history. Florence also has a much more intimate feel to it, and it’s easier to get around on foot.

Best time to visit Rome vs Florence?

Springtime is one of the most popular times to visit Rome and Florence. The weather is pleasant, and the days are longer, which means you can pack more activities into your trip.

From March to May, the average high temperature in Rome is 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit), while in Florence it is 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit).

However, it is worth noting that these temperatures can vary widely from day to day, so be sure to pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler days.

Spring is also a great time to enjoy the city’s many outdoor attractions, from the gardens of the Villa Borghese to Florence’s Boboli Gardens because it’s not too hot yet nor too cold anymore.

Rome vs Florence souvenirs?

When deciding between Rome vs Florence souvenirs, it really depends on what kind of things you are interested in.

If you’re looking for leather goods, Florence is the place to go. The city is known for its high-quality leather products, and there are a number of shops that sell everything from wallets to belts to purses.

In terms of religious souvenirs, Rome is the obvious choice. The city is home to a large number of Catholic churches and other religious sites, and there are plenty of shops that sell items like rosaries and crucifixes.

So, Rome or Florence?

If you’re looking for a city break, both Rome and Florence are excellent choices. But which one should you visit? It really depends on what you want to see and do. If ancient history is your thing, then Rome is the obvious choice.

However, if art is more your thing, Florence is hard to beat. The Uffizi Gallery is one of the world’s most famous art museums, and it’s just one of many amazing art galleries in the city.

So what will it be – Roman ruins or Florentine masterpieces?

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From Florence to Rome: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Shandley McMurray Jun 8, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Rome lies over 272 kilometers southeast of another Italian must-visit destination , Florence. Its plethora of historic landmarks and exciting tourist attractions make this city worthy of a long weekend away, or at least a jam-packed day trip . Luckily, Rome is easily reached from Florence by a variety of transportation methods.

The best way to travel to Rome is by train . Tourists can easily hop on a high-speed Frecciarossa from Florence and arrive in Rome in just over an hour and a half. Prefer to fly? ITA Airways will get you there in under an hour.

Driving is another good bet, especially for those who enjoy veering off-route to explore quaint towns. The bus is another, budget-friendly option, but it can be quite slow.

No matter what way you choose to travel, use our list of the best ways to get from Florence to Rome to help plan your trip.

On This Page:

• From Florence to Rome by Train
• From Florence to Rome by Plane
• From Florence to Rome by Car
• From Florence to Rome by Bus
• From Florence to Rome by Tour

1. From Florence to Rome by Train

Taking one of Trenitalia's Frecciarossa trains is the fastest way to get from Florence to Rome . These high-speed trains reach a maximum of 300 kilometers per hour, 400 if you take the Frecciarossa 1000. That means you can get from Florence to Rome in as little as one hour and 36 minutes .

Frecciarossa trains run from as early as 6 am and as late as 10:14 pm. They leave from Florence Santa Maria Novella train station and arrive in Rome's Tiburtina or Termini station. Tickets cost as little as $20 or over $130, depending on the level of service, date, and time chosen. Tourists can choose from Standard, Premium, Business, and Executive classes.

Italo Treno is another great and affordable option for those who prefer to watch the scenery zip by the windows of a train. Tickets cost as little as $11 and transport passengers between Florence's Santa Maria Novella station and Rome Termini in just over an hour and a half .

Italo Treno also offers trains that run from Santa Maria Novella to Roma Tiburtina in just under an hour and a half. Again, tickets are as cheap as $11, depending on the class, time, and date chosen.

Trenitalia's Intercity trains are a much slower and only slightly cheaper option. They reach a max speed of up to 200 kilometers an hour and make many more stops along the route between Florence and Rome.

As a result, Intercity trains can take over three hours to make the journey—that's almost double the time of a Frecciarossa train. Tickets can cost as little as $12 up to over $50, depending on which class you choose, as well as which date and time you are traveling.

2. From Florence to Rome by Plane

The fastest way to get from Florence to Rome is by plane . A non-stop flight takes under an hour to travel from Florence Airport Peretola to Rome's Fiumicino airport. Flights are operated by ITA Airways and cost about $96 for a return trip in economy.

While this journey is quick, you'll have to factor in the time and fares necessary to reach Florence airport and then arrive at your destination in Rome.

The T2 Vespucci line of Tramvia GEST is a two-minute walk from the arrivals and departures areas of Terminal 2. The tram picks people up from the Santa Maria Novella train station and drops them at the airport in 20 minutes. Tickets cost about $1.70 and can be purchased from nearby vending machines.

At the other end, you can hop on The Leonardo Express , which travels from the airport to Rome Termini train station in just over 30 minutes. One-way tickets cost about $20, and the train leaves about every half hour.

The Terravision Shuttle Bus runs from the airport to Rome Termini train station beginning at 8:30 am. They take about 55 minutes and cost about $6.50 for a one-way ticket.

3. From Florence to Rome by Car

Driving is an easy way to get from Florence to Rome , as long as you're comfortable navigating roads filled with drivers who like to weave in and out of traffic at high speed.

If the conditions are right, and you don't choose to travel on a busy summer weekend, the over 272-kilometer journey could take as little as three hours and 12 minutes by car. The most direct route follows the A1 Autostrada.

Insider's tip: Have cash or a credit/debit card at the ready to pay for the tolls on this route.

Driving offers the perfect opportunity to explore the Italian countryside, stopping in charming towns to enjoy a fresh coffee, baked treat, or delectable lunch. A few must-visits along the route from Florence to Rome include Orvieto and Assisi .

Orvieto lies about 165 kilometers, a two-hour drive, south of Florence and just over 115 kilometers (an hour and a half drive) north of Rome. A delightful place to visit, this Umbrian town boasts a 12 th -century Palazzo Comunale, captivating churches, and interesting museums.

Insider's tip: Save time to travel on the funicular from the new town to the Old Town. This is where the most historic attractions can be found, as well as a bevy of fun things to do.

Assisi is a bit out of the way, but worth a few hours for a visit. Located two hours southeast of Florence , this UNESCO World Heritage site is best known as the birthplace of St. Francis. Its stunning tourist attractions are entrancing, including the impressive, 13 th -century, Basilica di San Francesco .

Rental cars are readily available and budget-friendly in Florence. Sixt and Hertz have locations near the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station. They also conveniently rent cars out of Florence Airport Peretola.

4. From Florence to Rome by Bus

Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get from Florence to Rome , but it's not the most direct. Most buses leave from Villa Costanza, which lies 30 minutes outside downtown, so you'll have to take a taxi or find another mode of transportation to reach the stop.

Flixbus offers budget-friendly rides starting at $5. Their air-conditioned buses boast free Wi-Fi and power outlets. They also have direct routes from Florenz Villa Costanza to Rome's Tiburtina bus station in anywhere from three hours and 15 minutes to four hours , depending on traffic.

The buses leave about every half an hour, sometimes more often, depending on the time and day.

Note: Florenz Villa Costanza bus station is found just outside the city. It's easiest to hop in a taxi from there, which can take about 30 minutes.

Some buses depart from Florence Piazzale Montelungo station, which is more conveniently located close to the Santa Maria Novella train station. Be warned: these tend to leave in the wee hours—we're talking 2:45 and 3:20 am.

Marino Bus leaves Park Villa Costanza three times daily, at 1:30 am, 9:25 am, and 7:55 pm. The bus arrives in Rome Tiburtina anywhere from three hours and 45 minutes to four hours and 15 minutes later. Tickets cost around $18.

Autoservizi Salemi also offers a bus between Florence Villa Costanza and Rome Tiburtina once daily at 3:30 pm. It takes about four and a half hours and costs about $24.

5. From Florence to Rome by Tour

Often, the best way to appreciate a city is by embarking on a guided tour . This way, you can sit back, relax, and leave the navigating to the professionals. Also, you'll get the bonus of insider tips on the best places to visit during your journey.

Booking a Private Luxury Transfer from Florence to Rome with stops in Perugia and Assisi is a fantastic way to see two stunning towns along the route. An English-speaking driver will collect you and your traveling partners from a Florence hotel and transport you to your Rome hotel (or another centrally located spot) in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Along the way, you'll stop in the charming medieval towns of Perugia and Assisi, with plenty of time to explore their captivating points of interest. Perugia's stunning hilltop locale is worthy of at least a dozen photos, and its pretty attractions , like the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria, are worthy of a visit.

Assisi is another showstopper you won't want to miss. Luckily, your private driver/guide is well-informed about the must-see places in this sweet town, like Piazza del Comune and the Basilica of St. Francis .

The tour will take about eight hours in all, and you'll want to book a stay in one of Rome's hotels for at least a night or two before returning to Florence if that's your plan.

More on Italy

The Ultimate 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary by Train

A trip from Rome to Venice through the Tuscan hills of Italy is fantastic for families, couples, solo travelers, and literally anyone ( and their mama ) visiting Italy for the first time.

What’s more, this 7-day Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary hits a lot of the major historic and art-rich places we learned about in school, doesn’t break the bank, and is great all year round.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Itinerary Overview

I’m Mariana, and I’ve spent months traveling through Italy, hiking in the Dolomites, visiting the sites, and drinking Aperol on as many Italian beaches as possible.

I’ve also done this Rome to Venice route a few times, and from my experience, here’s the best route and time in each place: 

• 3 Days in Rome  – Vatican, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Roman History
• 2 Days in Florence  – Cathedral, Best Art Museum in Italy, Michelin Experience, a day tour to San Gimignano & Leaning Tower of Pisa
• 2 Days in Venice  – Gondola Ride, Basilica and Palazzo, Glass Blowing

Highly-rated accommodation in Rome: Domus Æterna – Re di Roma or D.R.Rome Spanish Luxury Suites .

Highly-rated accommodation in Florence: Atelier delle Grazie , San Giuliano Inn , or B&B Stupido Hotel .

Highly-rated accommodation in Venice: Venice Suite Dorsoduro or Palazzetto Barnaba .

My favorite time to  visit Italy is in the spring  and autumn when the vineyards are showing off.

Surprisingly, this whole trip is best done via train, and that’s how I recommend it. Renting a car would actually be more of a hassle on the tiny and busy streets of all these cities, and the train system is so cheap, nice, and well-connected, it would be a shame not to use it.

Book your train tickets in advance on Omio (formerly GoEuro).

So let’s jump into what to do and see, a few local tips for each city, and my travel recommendations. 

A 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary

You can actually do this route starting in Rome or Venice (Venice-Florence-Rome), as both have great airports and train stations connecting each other. I’ve always started in Rome, so this is the way I recommend it.

Day 1: Arrive in Rome

I’m pretty sure Rome is the most visited city in Europe, and so there’s a reason why I recommend at least 3 days (minimum) in the city center. 

Rome is a fantastic blend of historical sites, art, beautiful people, and culinary experiences that make it a great start to the trip.

I’m going to share the top things to see today, but remember to take time to simply enjoy the “dolce vita” – the sweet life – that Rome preaches:

1. Pantheon:  This ancient temple, now a church, is renowned for its perfect proportions and its oculus, an opening in the dome that shines light inside the interior beautifully.  You will have to cover your shoulders for this one! You can also book a guided Pantheon tour.

2. Trevi Fountain:  One of the most famous fountains in the world, the Trevi Fountain is a baroque masterpiece. Tradition says that throwing a coin into the fountain ensures you fall in love with an Italian by the end of the trip. You can explore it with this free Rome walking tour.

3. Piazza Navona:  Known for its baroque architecture, street artists, and cafes, Piazza Navona is a charming place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of Rome. This is a great lunch and dinner spot!

4. Spanish Steps:  A great spot for people-watching, the Spanish Steps are a famous meeting place and lead to the Trinità dei Monti church (a must-see).

No trip to Rome is complete without stuffing your face full of Italian food. Try dishes like Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, and authentic gelato. Don’t worry, you can walk it off after!

Day 2: Explore the Vatican

Today is all about the Catholic Church. It will take a full day to explore the Vatican City and Trastevere neighborhood across the river, and I highly recommend booking your Vatican tours ahead of time.

Here’s what’s on the daily agenda:

1. Vatican City:  Home to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City is a must. Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel and the stunning architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica are ‘wow’! Book your tour here or purchase a skip-the-lines ticket .

2. Explore Trastevere:  This picturesque neighborhood is known for its narrow cobbled streets, vibrant nightlife, and traditional Roman trattorias. It’s a great area to have lunch and dinner.

3. Walk Along the Tiber River:  Especially in the evening, a stroll along the Tiber is a peaceful break from the crazy city streets.

Day 3: Explore Rome

On your last day in Rome, you’re going to do as much as you can during the day, and then catch a late afternoon train (2 hrs) to Florence:

1. Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum:  Explore the iconic Colosseum, a symbol of Rome’s ancient power and engineering. Nearby, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill ruins are also great! You can book a tour to visit both sites with a guide or get a skip-the-lines ticket .

2. Galleria Borghese:  Set in the beautiful Villa Borghese Park, this museum houses a substantial collection of art, including works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. Be sure to purchase your ticket in advance .

In the afternoon, take the 2-hour train to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station and get ready for the next leg of this Italian trip.

Day 4: Explore Florence

No rest for the wicked! I’ve done all of these things in one day, with the help of 7 espressos along the way:

1. Uffizi Gallery Tour:  Home to the world’s greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art, including masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. You MUST get a ticket and timeslot ahead of time.

2. Duomo – Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore:  Florence’s most iconic landmark. While you can go in, the lines are insane, so just passing by it and having a coffee is fine.

3. Ponte Vecchio:  The oldest bridge in Florence, known for its jewelry shops and picturesque views over the Arno River.

4. Accademia Gallery:  Famous for Michelangelo’s David, this gallery also houses an impressive collection of Renaissance paintings and sculptures. You can buy your ticket in advance.

5. Beautiful piazzas:  Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza della Signoria. You can explore them with the free Florence walking tour.

6. Boboli Gardens:  Behind the Pitti Palace, these beautifully landscaped gardens offer a peaceful escape with stunning views of the city. If you have to skip out on anything, maybe scrap these.

I was shocked by how many Michelin restaurants there are in Florence and was glad to take advantage of the foodie nature of this city. Make a reservation ahead of time – a usual nice dinner with wine goes to €100-150.

DAY 5: DAY TRIP TO PISA & SAN GIMIGNIANO

Really close to Florence is the cutest little Tuscan town, San Gimignano, followed by the city of Pisa further west.

The best way to visit both of these is by booking a tour – this way, you get the history buff tour guide and the transportation. I know it doesn’t seem like a lot, but it’s a full day.

Book your Pisa & San Gimignano tour !

Day 6: Explore Venice

I left Florence on the early morning train and headed to Venice. It took about 2 hours – make sure you grab a coffee and breakfast to go for the train ride.

Venice blew my mind! I don’t know what I was expecting, but it was much more romantic and charming than I realized. Here are the top things to do in Venice, which you can split over the two days:

1. St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco):  The heart of Venice, home to the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, the Campanile bell tower, and the Doge’s Palace. The square is a hub of activity and a perfect starting point for your visit.

2. Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale):  Explore this symbol of Venice’s wealth and power, with its magnificent rooms, artwork, and the famous Bridge of Sighs. You can also book a tour of the Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica.

3. Rialto Bridge and Market: Visit the oldest bridge across the Grand Canal, a lively area filled with shops, and the nearby Rialto Market, known for its fresh produce and seafood.

4. Grand Canal Tour:  Take a gondola or Vaporetto (water bus) ride along the Grand Canal to witness the magic of Venetian architecture and life along the waterways. A gondola ride is about an hour and should cost about €80.

If possible, attend a performance or take a tour of the famous and beautifully restored opera house, and wander the less-traveled paths and canals to discover hidden squares and charming cafés away from the crowds.

Day 7: Explore Venice

On the last day of this Rome to Venice trip, it’s all about going beyond the touristy sites.

For lunch, make sure you sample local goodies like Cicchetti (Venetian tapas), any of the fresh seafood on the menu, and traditional dishes like risotto nero (squid ink risotto) and sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines).

In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Murano and Burano Islands nearby. Murano is famous for its glass-making, while Burano is known for its lace-making and brightly colored houses. Vaporettos (water taxis) are your friend for these trips. You can also book an excursion.

From here, you can either take the train back to Rome the next morning or fly on to your next destination – or home!

Getting From Rome to Venice

Traveling from Rome to Venice can be done in several ways, each with its own pros and cons. I recommend doing this Italy itinerary by train, but I wanted to show you what’s possible.

✅The best way to do this trip is by train.  Italy’s high-speed trains, like Frecciarossa, connect Rome to Venice in about 3.5 to 4 hours, with so many stops along the way to break up the trip – like Florence and Bologna.

Trains are punctual, fast, and allow you to enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving. The downside is the lack of flexibility; you’re limited to the train schedule and routes, and there’s less opportunity for spontaneous exploration.

✅Driving is the most flexible way to get from Rome to Venice.  You have the freedom to stop in cute little towns and scenic spots along the way – and there are plenty.

However, driving in Italy can be challenging due to traffic, especially in cities, and parking can be expensive and tough to find.

What’s more, navigating the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in places like Rome, Florence, and Venice requires planning to avoid fines.

✅Flying is the quickest way to travel between Rome and Venice , with the flight time being just over an hour. However, when you factor in the time for airport transfers, security checks, and waiting at the airport, it may not save much time compared to the train.

Also, you miss out on the scenic journey and the chance to visit places between the two cities.

Each mode of transportation gives you a unique experience, so your choice depends on your priorities, whether it’s flexibility, speed, comfort, or the opportunity to explore.

Travel Tips for This 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Trip

If it’s your first time in Italy, you might find a few of these surprising. Nevertheless, here are some practical tips to help make your journey smooth:

✔️Plan and Book In Advance: Decide on the places you want to visit along the way. Besides major cities like Florence, consider adding smaller towns and countryside stops, like San Giminiano and Siena.

And for the love of baby Jesus, book your hotels and AirBnBs ahead of time, especially in peak tourist season (which is always). 

✔️Don’t Rent a Car:  It will actually be more of a hassle on this particular route because the trains are super well-connected, cheap, and nice. What’s more, Venice is a car-free zone.

For little day trips to vineyards and cute little villages, there are amazing small-group tours you can book that give you a bomb-ass guide and handle the transport and entry tickets for you.

PRO TIP:  Many Italian cities, including Rome and Venice, have ZTL areas where non-residential vehicles are restricted – there will be signs. If you do rent a car for whatever reason, plan to park outside these areas to avoid hefty fines. In Venice, park at the Tronchetto or in Mestre and use public transport to get into the city.

✔️Pack Right:  Bring a little backpack with you at all times, and fill it with your charger (don’t forget the European adapter), a water bottle (especially in the summer), and snacks (which you can buy along the way).

Comfortable walking shoes are a must. So is one cute night outfit, because you’re going to some of the most romantic places in Italy.

✔️Be Flexible:  While it’s good to have a plan, be open to spontaneous detours or stops. Some of the best experiences come from unplanned adventures. Like why not skip the Vatican and take a day trip to Pompei or Naples?

✔️Learn Basic Italian:  Phrases for greetings, directions, the bathroom, and ordering food will be particularly helpful. And maybe a few curse words, just for fun.

✔️Show some Respect:  Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and head in all churches, and be nice when chatting it up with locals. And  tip your waiter !

✔️Don’t Be A Tourist:  Don’t put your wallet in the back pocket of your jeans, and don’t leave your phone on the table as you eat (like I do in the States), because that makes you an easy target for petty thieves.

That said, Italy is pretty safe, so just apply the same watchful eye as you might in New York City.

FAQ: Rome-Florence-Venice by Train

Is it worth taking a day trip from rome to venice.

Not really. The fastest train from Rome to Venice is just under 4 hours. Driving will take almost 6 hours. And while a flight takes 1 hour, getting to and from the airport, will add a few more hours. 

What Are the Best Places to Stop Between Rome and Venice?

I think the top 5 best places to stop on this route are:

1.  Florence : Known as the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is the epicenter of art, architecture, and history in Italy. Visit the Uffizi Gallery to see works by Michelangelo and Botticelli, and don’t miss the iconic Duomo. 

2.  Siena : This medieval town in Tuscany is famous for its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Piazza del Campo and the Siena Cathedral. The Tuscan countryside around Siena, known for its vineyards, is the backdrop to my phone.

3.  Bologna : Often overlooked, Bologna is a hidden gem. I love it for its rich food culture (think authentic Bolognese sauce).

4.  Verona : Famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s  Romeo and Juliet , Verona is a city for lovers. Visit Juliet’s House and explore the ancient Roman arena here.

5.  Padua : Before reaching Venice, stop in Padua, known for its historic architecture and art. The Scrovegni Chapel, with frescoes by Giotto, is a highlight. Padua also has a lively market and beautiful botanical gardens, the oldest in the world.

Each of these stops gives you a unique slice of Italian culture and history, making your Rome-Florence-Venice travel itinerary just a bit more authentic. 

PRO TIP : Remember to check the opening times of everything and book tickets in advance (trust me!) to make the most of your stops.

Is a Road Trip Through Italy a Good Idea?

Although this itinerary is better done by train, a road trip through Italy is a fantastic idea, especially if you love Italian food and art history, and value the old-school charm of “ dolce vita ” life. More specifically, here’s a few reasons to hit up Italy for a road trip: 

Pretty Landscapes : From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the rugged  coastlines of Amalfi , a road trip through any part of Italy will showcase some pretty epic scenery. 

Rich Culture : Every region has its unique heritage, from ancient Roman ruins in Rome to Renaissance art in Florence. Road-tripping lets you explore cultural gems like the Tower of Pisa, a Tuscan winery, the Vatican, and the canals of Venice at your own pace.

Yummy Food:  Italy is a paradise for foodies, from the ragú in Naples to seafood in Sicily. You’ll be shocked to know that Italy is more than just pizza and pasta.

Charming Villages:  Beyond the major cities, Italy is dotted with cute little towns and villages, often less visited by tourists. Road tripping (even by train) gives you the freedom to discover these hidden gems and experience the authentic Italian way of life.

Final Thoughts

I’ve spent months traveling through Italy – I’ve tried this Rome to Venice itinerary a few times, and I think the best way to get from one spot to another is by train.

I recommend  visiting Italy in the spring  or fall months when the tourist crowds are more manageable and it’s not so blistering hot in Italy.

Bio:  Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow wanderers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn’t writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step toward a much-needed sabbatical.

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I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

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Sophisticated 10-Day Florence, Rome & Amalfi Coast Itinerary

• Isabelle Hoyne
• February 15, 2024

** Disclosure: some of the links on this site are affiliate links and should you make a purchase through these, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!**

As someone with deep-rooted love and first-hand experience traveling to these stunning Italian locations, I’m thrilled to present you this Florence, Rome & Amalfi Coast itinerary. Curated from my personal explorations over the years and countless hours of research, this itinerary introduces you to the historic grandeur of Florence and Rome, as well as the captivating allure of the Amalfi Coast. Unearth cultural treasures, exquisite cuisine and stellar stays on this unforgettable Italian journey!

For a truly memorable Italian getaway combining art, culture, natural beauty and luxurious relaxation, then it is wise to incorporate the sights of Florence, the ancient streets of Rome and the romantic panoramas of the Amalfi Coast in one trip.

Traditionally known as one of Europe’s noblest holiday destinations, Italy combines old-school glamour with Michelin star foodie experiences to deliver unrivalled luxury.

Whether it’s wandering through Piazza Navona or discovering divine vineyards in Tuscany – this itinerary will be sure to tickle the fancy of any culturally curious traveller who has a penchant for gastronomic experiences. 

Essential links for booking your trip

Transfers : Book your airport transfer with Get Transfer Ferries : Search schedules and buy ferry tickets here Trains : Search timetables and book train tickets here Top rated experiences ⭑ VIP David & Duomo Tour: Early Accademia Tour & Skip the Line Dome Climb with Exclusive Terrace Access ⭑ Skip-the-line tickets for the Uffizi  ⭑ VIP Pristine Sistine Vatican tour (Cultured Voyages top pick for Rome) ⭑ Roman Forum & Colosseum tour ⭑ Rome Food Tour by Sunset around Prati District (great for foodies) ⭑ Amalfi Coast Boat Rental (for a truly memorable day out) Top places to stay:   Peruzzi Urban Residences  (luxe for less, Florence) // NH Collection Porta Rossa  (Florence 5-star) // Kalos (great luxe Rome rental) // The Glam (Rome hotel with rooftop pool) // Orto Paradiso (Amalfi Coast hidden gem) // Hotel Casa Albertina (affordable luxury in Positano Don’t forget to pack :  Glam Italia! 101 Fabulous Things to Do in Rome // Naples, Pompeii & the Amalfi Coast // Compression packing cubes (my #1 travel accessory // bite away pen (because who likes mosquito bites?!)

Your journey begins in Florence, a city of refinement and culture set in the rolling hills of Tuscany. Its long history of art and innovation is evident everywhere you look, from the magnificent Santa Maria del Fiore (the Cathedral of Florence) to renowned works such as Michelangelo’s ‘ David ‘ at the Accademia Gallery.

Spend your days in Florence exploring the winding narrow streets and discovering hidden gems, sampling delicious Italian food and wine, or spending time people-watching in one of its many piazzas.

Next up is iconic Rome, an ancient city that radiates with charm and charisma. It’s a place where history comes alive, its cobblestone streets filled with the stories of ancient civilizations that have come and gone over the centuries.

As you walk through the Eternal City, you can feel the legacy of time around you in every corner, from the Colosseum and the Pantheon to the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.

Finally, after exploring the fascinating history of Rome, you will move on to the glorious Amalfi Coast.

It’s a land of enchantment, where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life and enjoy the peace that comes from being surrounded by nature.

The air is perfumed with the sweet scent of lemon trees, while the hillsides are alive with vibrant florals. The Amalfi Coast is also home to some of Italy’s most picturesque towns, such as Positano and Ravello.

By bringing together all of these incredible destinations in one trip, this Florence, Rome & Amalfi Coast itinerary will give you the perfect balance of culture, sightseeing, and relaxation in 10 days.

Should you wish to, there are also plenty of options for extending your time in Italy. You can add a Tuscany road trip, spend more time exploring Rome, visit Naples and Pompeii, or extend your stay on the Amalfi Coast – the choice is yours!

Table of Contents

Planning your rome, florence & amalfi coast itinerary, an overview of your florence, rome & amalfi coast itinerary, detailed florence, rome & amalfi coast itinerary, conclusion & further reading, florence, rome & amalfi coast itinerary: faq, getting around during your time in italy, flying in and out of italy.

If you want to make the most of your trip, try to fly into Florence and out of Naples.

If this is not a possibility when kicking off your itinerary in Florence, then nearby Bologna is only around 30 minutes away away by train, or you can choose to land at Pisa for a slightly longer transit journey by train that takes you on a pleasant journey through some of the countryside of Northern Tuscany.

The absolute last resort if you cannot get a ticket directly to one of the earlier listed cities would be Rome, where a fast train from the central train station in the city centre will take you to Florence in little over an hour and a half – so it’s really not too bad whatever option you choose.

Getting between destinations on this itinerary

The train service in Italy is really fantastic, with a fast train running between Italy’s major cities.

To that end, you do not need to self-drive for any of this Rome Florence Amalfi Coast itinerary should you not wish to, as you’ll be able to get from Florence to Rome, Rome to Naples and Naples on to the starting point of the Amalfi Coast by train. 

As an indication, approximate train journey times are as follows: 

• Florence to Rome: 1 hour 40 minutes (fast train)
• Rome to Naples: 1 hour 20 minutes (fast train)
• Naples to Sorrento: 1 hour 10 minutes (slow, Circumvesuviana train)
• Naples to Salerno: 30 – 40 minutes (direct AV and Regionale trains)

BOOK TRAINS | Search train schedules and book tickets in advance here

Ferries are also a great way of travelling between towns and islands along the Amalfi Coast, although depending on the time of year you’re visiting I’d recommend booking your tickets in advance if possible, as they can get booked up quickly during peak season.

Also, if you’re travelling in high season (typically April – October or so), you’ll be able to avail of ferries directly from Naples to the likes of Sorrento and Positano, which I highly recommend for a wonderful perspective of the coastline from the sea. 

Once on the Amalfi Coast, you can also get between the towns by local Sita buses, but I’d recommend taking the ferry if your town is located along the seafront. 

BOOK FERRIES | Search ferry schedules and book tickets in advance here

Should you rent a car?

If you follow this Rome Florence and Amalfi Coast itinerary as proposed, then you will not need to hire a car. 

You’ll be able to get between all cities included by train and upon arriving at Naples, there are great transport links offering ferries or Sita Bus services that travel between towns on the Amalfi Coast, meaning you won’t have to tackle the notoriously narrow roads, hairpin bends and traffic jams the region is famed for.

Hiring a car is only really worth it if you’re planning on doing a Tuscany road trip or spending extended time in one location and not hopping from city to city.

If you are lucky enough to spend more than a day trip in the Tuscan countryside, then I would absolutely recommend that you hire a car – it makes travelling around between Tuscany’s best hilltop towns all the easier. 

RENT A CAR | Search for and compare car rentals here

How much time do you need for this Rome, Amalfi Coast, Florence itinerary?

In order to follow this itinerary at a nice pace that won’t overwhelm you, I would suggest having about 10 days on the ground, not including travel days on either end. This would give you enough time to explore each location, and provide some relaxation time as well.

If you are short on time, however, it is still possible to cram this itinerary into 7 days – but remember that this will require a lot of long travel days and potentially eliminate certain activities or attractions completely. For that reason, if you do only have one week, I’d recommend cutting one of the locations.

It’s also very much possible to elongate this Florence, Rome and Amalfi Coast itinerary to two or more weeks and I will explain that in more detail below. However, what I would suggest as a minimum for this Rome Amalfi Coast Florence itinerary is the following:

• 3 nights Florence
• 3-4 nights Rome
• 4 nights Amalfi Coast

RELATED READING | How Many Days Do You Need in Rome? [For Weekend Getaways, Cultural Immersions, or Something in Between]

What’s the best time to go to Italy?

Italy is a beautiful country to visit any time of year, but the weather and crowds can vary depending on when you go. If you’re looking for the best weather, the best time to go to Italy is from April to October – although it can get very crowded during the summer months of June through August.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in November or March when temperatures are still mild and some attractions may be less busy.

Personally, I find the shoulder months of April/May and September/October to be the best balance between nice weather and slightly fewer crowds.

Options for extending your 10 days in Italy

Spend longer in Tuscany | If you have more time, consider spending some time in Tuscany – there are great wine country tours, hilltop towns to explore, and even Siena is a short train ride away.

The region is also made for getting lost in, so I’d highly recommend hiring a car and hitting the road for a Tuscan road trip if you fancy extending your time in this incredible part of Italy.

Extend your time in Rome | If you’re looking to spend more time in Rome , consider adding on a few extra days to see some of Rome’s more off-the-radar sights, like the Domus Aurea or Villa Farnesina.

Naples and Pompeii | Naples is also a great city to spend time in, with attractions like Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius and Herculaneum close by. It offers a completely different perspective compared to Rome and is well worth a visit.

Extend your time on the Amalfi Coast | If you want to spend more time on Italy’s beautiful Amalfi Coast, consider visiting some of the lesser-known towns and villages or spending more time on the islands of the Bay of Naples – I’d highly recommend a sojourn on Ischia.

See this 10-day Amalfi Coast itinerary as an example of how to spend your time if you wish to linger longer.

Below is the detailed version of this Florence, Rome and Amalfi Coast itinerary. Discover how to spend your days, where I recommend that you stay and eat and how it is best to get around between each of these destinations.

Days 1-4: Florence

During the first part of this Florence Rome Amalfi Coast itinerary, you’ll get to take in the highlights of Florence, including seeing Michelangelo’s David and walking across the Ponte Vecchio, before heading out into the Tuscan countryside for a day of wine tasting or exploring charming hilltop towns.

related reading for Florence

• 2 days in Florence guide
• Is visiting Florence worth it?
• How many days do you need in Florence
• Florence hotels with pools
• Luxury Florence vacation rentals

Getting to Florence

If you can, fly into Florence Airport. From there, getting into Florence city centre is a doddle, as the T2 tram line runs between the airport and Santa Maria Novella train station in Florence city.

It’s also extremely affordable, with tickets costing €1.50. They run very frequently and it takes around 20 minutes to reach Florence city centre.

Alternatively, fly into Bologna and catch the train to Santa Maria Novella, which takes approximately 30 minutes.

If neither Florence nor Bologna airports work as an arrival point, try Pisa. The Pisa Mover train functions as a shuttle and can be taken from the Pisa airport to Pisa Centrale. From there, take another train to Santa Maria Novella Train Station in Florence.

Where to stay in Rome

LUXE FOR LESS

PERUZZI URBAN RESIDENCES

We opted to stay in an apartment, as we wanted to be right in the heart of Florence.

Unfortunately, our wonderful rental that backed on to the Piazza della Signoria is no longer listed, however Peruzzi Urban Residences looks like a fantastic alternative, stylishly decorated and located a mere 600m from the Palazzo Vecchio as it is.

The deluxe rooms here, in particular, look rather special.

BOUTIQUE BOLTHOLE

ADASTRA SUITES

A wonderful boutique hotel option in Florence is AdAstra Suites , which is a quirky lodging that occupies the upper floor of a beautiful, historic palace in the Oltrarno. It comes with a cherry on top; with gorgeous views over large, private gardens.

CENTRAL LUXURY

NH COLLECTION PORTA ROSSA

This Florence 5-star hotel is superbly located in the heart of Florence’s centro storico . 350m from the Ponte Vecchio, it’s also a mere 500m walk to the Duomo and even less to the Uffizi Gallery.

It successfully blends old and new, with contemporary finishes in an old building that boasts original frescoes.

Where to eat & drink in Florence

Cammillo Trattoria | Borgo San Jacopo 57R, 50125 – located in the Oltrarno, this is where the locals eat. Come here for a thoroughly Tuscan meal.

Trattoria 4 Leoni | Via dei Vellutini 1 rosso (Piazza della Passera), 50125 – located in a square that’s more of a triangle, 4 Leoni Florence is neighbourhood restaurant in the Oltrarno, which was packed to the rafters when we turned up on our first evening.

Having been turned away without a reservation, we booked for the following night and weren’t disappointed. Expect traditional Tuscan fare here – I had mouthwatering tagliatelle with wild boar sauce, while Andy opted for some rabbit that fell off the bone.

Gurdulu Gastronomia | Via delle Caldaie 12-14 Rosso Santo Spirito, 50125 – The most contemporary establishment on this list, this Santo Spirito cocktail bar and restaurant is located – surprise, surprise, like most other recommendations on this list – in the Oltrarno district!

Perfect for a dinner for two, grab a cocktail and ask for a table in the romantic candlelit courtyard.

Le volpi e l’uva | Piazza Dei Rossi 1, 50125 – I loved this little enoteca in Florence, which stocks smaller, local wine producers so you can be sure to sample something unique here.

We were lucky to get a table in this very busy spot, which is located on a side street on the Oltrarno side of the Ponte Vecchio, so come slightly early to guarantee a seat for a pre-dinner drink. If you fancy having some lunch here, make sure to book a table, as it is extremely popular with the locals.

Day 1: Florence

A great way to start your journey is by visiting the Statue of David first thing in the morning. Measuring in at over 5 metres, David is both literally and figuratively a sight to behold.

Mined from one piece of Carrara marble, the now-famous statue weighed approximately 5 tonnes when it was first sculpted by Michelangelo. When you get there, most of the Academia will be empty (at least for a little while) and you’ll get to enjoy David in relative peace. Make sure to book your tickets in advance .

When you’ve finished gawping at David, go for a ramble to take in the Mercato Centrale nearby. On the ground floor, there are many vendors selling fresh produce, fruits, meats, etc. and on the upper floors is an expansive food court with plenty of options if you want something quick and easy.

If you are particularly interested in the Medici family and/or work of the Renaissance masters (especially Michelangelo), then stop off at the Basilica of San Lorenzo and the adjacent Medici Chapel – book tickets here .

After lunch, it’s time to tackle Florence’s most famous talisman – the great cathedral and Duomo of Florence . Tickets to clime the Duomo sell out way in advance, so make sure to book these with plenty of notice.

There’s so much history to absorb in Florence, that I would highly recommend that you take a tour. I highly recommend Italy-experts, Take Walks for this. They offer a range of superbly reviewed Florence tours, like this VIP David & Duomo Tour .

Finish your day by strolling around some of Florence’s main shopping streets and make sure to cross the Ponte Vecchio in the evening, as the sun sets and casts a golden hue over the cladding of the bridge and the surrounding buildings.

Day 2: Florence

Day two in Florence gets you up bright and early to catch the sunrise from Piazzale Michelangelo . From this vantage point atop the Oltrarno, you can see all of Florence sprawled below.

Once you and the magnificent city of Florence has woken up, it’s time to visit the Uffizi Gallery . The Uffizi Gallery is one of the world’s finest and oldest art galleries, home to some of the world’s greatest masterpieces.

Designed by Giorgio Vasari for the Medici in 1581, its collection is unparalleled. I would strongly recommend that you book skip-the-line tickets in advance, or if you can, opt for a small-group tour to guide you through the collection.

Pay a visit to Piazza della Signoria and the imposing Palazzo Vecchio when you’re done. You likely won’t have time to head inside the palazzo, but stop to take in the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery that runs along the south side to admire the incredible works of art.

Finish the day with a visit to the Pitti Palace and adjacent, sprawling Boboli Gardens . The palace was purchased by the Medici family in the 1600’s and it became the Medici’s primary residence in Florence, as well as home to their vast art collection.

Today, the Palatine Gallery at the palace contains over 500 paintings, including works by Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian and Rubens.

Your ticket also gets you into the Bardini Gardens , which are an overlooked gem high on the hillside of the Oltrarno that bursts with blossoms in springtime.

Day 3: Florence

Day three in Florence is the perfect opportunity to take a day trip and explore the wider Tuscany region, or undertake a unique full-day or half-day experience, such as a cooking class. There are a number of ways that you can spend your day and I have recommended the best of them below.

Explore the wider region of Tuscany and its towns

A day trip from Florence to explore the wider region of Tuscany is a great way to experience the best of what this beautiful part of Italy has to offer. You can visit some charming towns, sample delicious Tuscan wines and cuisine during the day, and enjoy some of Tuscany’s positively dreamy countryside.

PLAN | Uncover the best Tuscan towns and learn how to take a Tuscan road trip if you wish to rent a car and travel independently. If you’d like to take a tour, consider the following:

• Tuscany Day Trip From Florence With Chianti, Siena and San Gimignano
• Florence Vespa Tour: Tuscan Hills and Italian Cuisine

Take a day trip to Siena

For those looking to explore another city in the Tuscany region, a day trip from Florence to Siena is an excellent option. Located just over 90 minutes away by car or by train, Siena offers visitors a chance to experience some of Italy’s best-preserved medieval architecture and art.

From its picturesque cobblestone streets fringed with grand palazzos and churches, to its colorful Piazza del Campo where twice a year horse races are held, Siena is more than worthy of a day trip from Florence.

PLAN YOUR SIENA DAY TRIP | Read this guide to Siena to travel independently, or book an organised day trip ( like this one , which also includes a visit to San Gimignano) if you don’t want to deal with logistics.

Visit a Winery and Taste Tuscan Wines

For those looking to sample some Tuscan tipple, why not visit one of the region’s excellent vineyards and sample some of its world-famous wines? Many wineries offer tasting experiences and guided tours for visitors, so take this opportunity to explore their cellars and learn about local wine-making techniques.

• Essence of Chianti Small Group Tour with Lunch and Tastings from Florence (full day tour)
• Small-Group Wine Tasting Experience in the Tuscan Countryside (half day tour)

Take a cooking class so you can recreate Tuscan dishes at home

For those looking to get a deeper insight into Tuscan cuisine, take a cooking class on your third day in Florence. A cooking class is the perfect way to learn how to recreate classic Tuscan dishes at home.

With hands-on instruction from expert chefs and access to some of the freshest ingredients, you’ll be able to pick up new skills and knowledge that will last for years!

• Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse with Local Market Tour from Florence
• Pastamania – Pasta making class in Florence

Days 4-7: Rome

Spending a few days in Rome is an incredible experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime. With its ancient monuments, world-famous art, and stunning architecture, the Eternal City is sure to dazzle even the most seasoned traveler.

This section of the Rome Amalfi Coast itinerary will see you explore iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Pantheon and soak up Rome’s amazing atmosphere. If you’re looking for the best Colosseum tours in Rome , be sure to include them in your itinerary.

related reading for Rome

• How much time should you spend in Rome?
• 4-day Rome itinerary
• What to do in Rome at night
• Visiting the Colosseum at night

Getting to Rome

Take the fast train from Florence Santa Maria Novella train station to Roma Termini, which is Rome’s main train station. The journey will take around 1 hour and 40 minutes. 

LUXE APARTMENT

I stayed in this great Plum Guide apartment. I honestly can’t say enough good things about it. It was plush, luxurious, stylishly decorated, spacious and, all importantly – quiet. Located close to the Pantheon, it’s extremely well-located for exploring Rome.

POOL WITH A VIEW

This mod 4 star hotel in Monti is very aptly named. Complete with a rooftop pool and views of the Roman skyline, its central location will mean that you’re close to all of the city highlights – and have you close to Roma Termini Station too.

BOUTIQUE BEAUTY

CASA PIETRA

This gorgeous guesthouse near the Pantheon makes for a fantastic luxe-for-less option in Rome and looks onto Piazza del Pietra. Rooms are bright, with pops of colour and upgrades include landmark views of the jaw-dropping Temple of Hadrian.

Where to eat in Rome

There are oodles of incredible places to eat in Rome, but here are a few of my favourites:

Pianostrada | Via delle Zoccolette, 22, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

A truly aesthetic venue with an open kitchen and a gorgeous outdoor garden adorned in lights, this is a venue where substance matches style. Features modern takes on Italian cuisine and a well-chosen wine list. I’d highly recommend you try their focaccia.

L’Orso 80 | Via dell’Orso, 33, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

A family-run, welcoming establishment located on the gorgeously picturesque Via dell’Orso. Again, a place for classic Roman dishes, but look out for their specials which include steak with truffle. They are also renowned for their antipasti platters.

Antica Trattoria Angelino | Piazza Margana, 37, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

What you dream of when you imagine a typical Roman trattoria, we stumbled upon this quite by chance and were drawn in by its location in a quaint, almost secret square close to Piazza Venezia. In business since 1658, it was the food, however, that completely won us over – expect delectable Roman classics.

Day 4: Rome

Your first day in Rome focuses on what we’ll call “Classic Rome” and the area in and around the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. With very little action in terms of museums, entrance fees etc, it’s a nice way to ease yourself into the city and discover this area on foot.

Begin your day by marvelling at the breathtaking Pantheon – entry is free, but as the hours pass, an increasingly lengthy queue will stretch out beyond the doorway and wrap around the building. To make sure that you are one of those in the queue, it’s wise to arrive early in the day.

Up next awaits Campo dei’Fiori, where you can possibly catch a bustling market in session if you arrive before lunchtime. The square is alive with vivid stalls and encircled by towering Roman architecture that gives it the appearance of an amphitheatre with the market at its epicentre.

Now, you’ll make your way back to Piazza Navona – Rome’s iconic square that teems with people. Boasting some of the most beautiful Baroque architecture and statues, Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers is proudly displayed in its centre for all visitors to admire. 

Afterwards, step foot into the magnificent Piazza de Pietra, to see how the almost 2,000-year-old Temple of Hadrian has been incorporated into an ornate 17th-century palazzo that now serves as part of Rome’s Chamber of Commerce.

The Trevi Fountain is a renowned attraction in Rome and has become an iconic symbol of the city. Designed in 1762 by Nicola Salvi with inspiration from Bernini’s original plans, this fountain captivates onlookers with its charming and mystical design that pays homage to a sea scene.

After visiting the iconic Trevi Fountain, a visit to another renowned symbol of Rome awaits. The Spanish Steps, designed by Francesco de Sanctis and finished in 1723 consist of 135 steps that ascend from Piazza di Spagna toward Trinità dei Monti church where they terminate at the Palazzo del Quirinale.

Finally, I would suggest that you end your day by making your way to Ponte Umberto for sunset. Get ready to be mesmerised by a stunning sunset over the dome of St. Peter’s, one of Rome’s most beautiful vantage points!

You’ll also get an incredible frame filled with Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge that gracefully crosses the Tiber and marks its entrance to Castel Sant’ Angelo.

Day 5: Rome

On your second day in Rome you will embark on a fascinating exploration of the Vatican. Afterwards, I recommend that venture southward towards Trastevere and then cross back over River Tiber, where you can take in breathtaking city views from Aventine Hill before watching spectacular sunsets as evening approaches.

If it is your first time visiting the Vatican, or if you haven’t taken one before, I would highly recommend that you take a tour of the Vatican and that the tour starts with the Sistine Chapel . I absolutely adored this early-entrance VIP tour and can highly recommend it.

The Vatican gets extremely busy as the day goes on, especially the Sistine Chapel, so it makes sense to view it when crowds are at the lowest you’ll see them and to visit first thing in the morning.

When you’ve pulled your jaw back up from the floor having ogled Michelangelo’s masterpiece, you can then take in the impossibly impressive Raphael Rooms .

After that, I suggest you work your way through the Vatican Museum . This immense complex holds an array of art and artefacts so vast that it would be impossible to cover it all in one day.

Highlights include, however, the Pio-Clementine museum, the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries and the Sobieski Room with its iconic frescoes.

The Pinacotheca of the Vatican Museums is also a complete treasure trove. Assembled by various Popes, its 18 rooms house works spanning from the Middle Ages all the way up to nineteenth-century artworks.

Also, no visit to the Vatican City is complete without a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica and Square .

As you can see, with so much on offer at the Vatican one’s head begins to swim – trust me, take a tour!

BOOK | Find the perfect Vatican City tour here .

Once you have explored the inner depths of the Vatican, it’s time to make your way towards Trastevere . This charming neighbourhood is home to some fantastic restaurants and bars which offer a great evening atmosphere. It’s also home to some lesser-known but equally stunning churches.

Continue your evening by watching the sun dip below the horizon at the Garden of Oranges on Aventine Hill. This is one of the best spots to catch a breathtaking sunset in Rome and should not be missed!

Day 6: Rome

Your third day in Rome is dedicated to exploring its Ancient Roman past.

First up is the Colosseum , the most iconic Roman ruin and the largest amphitheatre ever built. Built in 80 AD, it was used for gladiator battles and other public spectacles.

Book skip-the-line tickets in advance, or for a really special experience, save your visit until the end of the day and try visiting the Colosseum at night to get behind-the-scenes access to what lay beneath the arena floor – I can highly recommend this tour .

Next, is the adjacent Roman Forum. This archaeological site is the heart of ancient Rome, with ruins that date back to 753 BC. It was once a bustling political and administrative centre, making it an absolute must-see for anyone who wants to place themselves in the shoes of an Ancient Roman.

Ticket entry is combined with a Colosseum ticket ( buy in advance here ), but I’d highly recommend taking a tour for a far greater understanding as you make your way through the ruins.

If you’re an Ancient Rome buff, try fit in a visit to Domus Aurea. Nero’s “Golden House” and considered to be the grandest of all edifices in Rome’s past, it was erected after the Great Fire of 63 AD and sprawled over an extravagant 50 hectares – complete with vineyards, cornfields and forests!

There are somewhat sporadic opening times, but is a thoroughly unique experience. You may have better luck getting tickets by booking a guided tour, like this one , rather than booking a ticket directly.

Not quite ancient but it is right nearby, stop off to take in the Alter of the Fatherland at Piazza Venezia . Right beside it is the Teatro Marcello , the building of which was begun by Julius Caesar and completed by Augustus in 13 BC.

From the Teatro Marcello, take the grand, wide staircase to the top of the Capitoline Hill , which today houses the Capitoline Museum and the Piazza del Campidoglio . Here, you’ll discover some great birds-eye views of the Roman Forum below and the world’s first museum that is dedicated to the history of the city of Rome.

Days 7-10: Amalfi Coast

A few days spent along the Amalfi Coast is an experience you won’t soon forget. With its winding coastline of pastel-coloured villages, breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, and inviting beaches, you can easily get lost in its beauty.

As part of this itinerary, you’ll have four days to spend there – read on to discover how to make the most of your time, while still having some time to relax.

related reading for Amalfi Coast

• 4-Day Amalfi Coast itinerary
• 10-Day Amalfi Coast itinerary
• Ravello travel guide

How to get to the Amalfi Coast from Rome

You will first need to take a train from Roma Termini, Rome’s central station to Napoli Centrale – which is Naples’ main train station. This train from Rome to the Amalfi Coast journey covering is a crucial part of your travel experience, which will take around 1 hour and 20 minutes. 

From Naples then have one of two options. 

When you take the Rome to Amalfi Coast train, first, is to take the slow Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento (around 1 hour and 10 minutes). Then, take a Sita bus or taxi to Positano, which is the first stop on the Amalfi Coast leg of this itinerary. 

Your second choice on how to get from Rome to the Amalfi Coast is to take a ferry from Naples port to Positano if you are travelling during the high season (usually mid-April to the end of September).

It take 2 – 2.5 hours in total, but I’d recommend this option if it is available for the views alone and it’s a nice way to ease your way into the coastal setting. 

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast

AFFORDABLE LUXURY – POSITANO

HOTEL CASA ALBERTINA

If you’re searching for exceptional views without an exorbitant price tag, then take a look at Hotel Casa Albertina. Located a mere 10-minute walk from a sandy beach in Positano, Hotel Casa Albertina features a terrace with views of the sea and a bar and charming traditional Amalfi Coast decor.

HIGH END LUXURY – AMALFI

HOTEL SANTA CATARINA

The jewel in the crown of Amalfi’s high-end offering is the Hotel Santa Catarina.

Perched on a cliff top a short distance outside the town of Amalfi, this art-nouveau hotel has a private beach club onsite (accessible by lift) and operates a daily boat shuttle that will drop you to downtime Amalfi should you so desire.

LUXE FOR LESS – MINORI

ORTO PARADISO

I stayed at this beautiful bed and breakfast in Minori and it is a true gem. Set amidst terraces and gardens and owned by an artist, this truly aesthetic property comes kitted out with a lovely pool for lounging by and some insanely divine views of the town of Minori below.

Note that it’s a little tricky to get too, but if you don’t mind some steps then the climb is worth the views.

BOUTIQUE BEAUTY – RAVELLO

VILLA PIEDIMONTE

The four star hotel Villa Piedimonte offers pared back elegance and bright, spacious rooms, the majority of which come with sea views – some come with their own terraces, too.

There is a pool onsite with plenty of sun loungers, which makes this hotel the perfect place to enjoy both some R&R and the charms of Ravello town.

Where to eat on the Amalfi Coast

Zass – Positano

Located in Positano’s most luxurious 5 star hotel. Boasting 1 Michelin star, creative dishes and incredible views of the Amalfi Coast this is the perfect spot for a special dinner at sunset. Note that booking is only available 1 month in advance of the seating date.

Ristorante la Tonarella – Amalfi

Located on a small, private cove this little beachside restaurant is reachable by the shuttle boat that operates between Amalfi and the cove. A former favourite of Jackie Kennedys, this casual little restaurant is a true hidden gem. Call in advance for reservation of umbrellas, dinner and shuttle pick up!

Da Salvatore – Ravello

Located along the road that runs just underneath Palazzo Avino, this is a great restaurant in Ravello that also offers unparalleled views. The menu is high quality and creative too and the restaurant has a woodfired pizza right at its heart. Book ahead and request a table with a view.

La Capannina – Capri

A 1930s trattoria, located under an archway in Capri town and offering regional dishes. They catered extremely well for my gluten free requirements and offered a very professional service.

La Botte – Minori

A complete gem, authentic and quaint with local dishes and mouth-watering pizzas at extremely reasonable prices.

Day 7: Amalfi Coast – Positano

Spending some time in Positano is an unforgettable experience, one that combines glamour with unique local culture. The town’s colourful streets and views of the azure Mediterranean Sea having been drawing in visitors for decades.

I recommend that you stay in Positano (or nearby Praiano) for the first two of your four nights on the Amalfi Coast, before heading on to Minori.

You could opt to begin your day by lounging on the town’s two main beaches – Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo – or explore Positano’s narrow streets and boutique shops.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta , which is home to beautiful mosaics, as well as the Roman Villa , buried during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD and was discovered under the crypt of the church..

For those looking for an adventure instead, hike the Path of the Gods and take in some stunning views.

Alternatively, if you fancy some low-key celeb-spotting, make your way to Da Adolfo , a small but legendary restaurant and beach club located in a little cove.

You’ll need to catch the shuttle boat that leaves from Positano – look out for a boat with a big red fish on the mast – and make sure to reserve your sunbed in advance.

Ultimately, your first day in Positano is all about relaxing – there isn’t a whole lot to do or see in Positano but that’s part of the charm – kick back, put your feet up and enjoy the views!

Day 8: Amalfi Coast – Capri

The next day, catch the ferry from Positano to nearby Capri .

This small island has been a popular vacation spot since the days of Roman Emperors, and today you can still feel the special atmosphere as soon as you arrive. There is also quite the atmosphere of crowdedness, so do yourself a favour and take yourself away from the crowds as soon as you get there.

Start off the day by paying a visit to Villa Jovis , Emperor Tiberius’ former palace perched atop of cliffs. Built in 27 AD, this opulent complex is filled with fascinating ruins and offers an insight into Roman history.

Pop your head into the stunning Villa Lysis also, which is a few hundred metres away from the ruins of Villa Jovis .

Afterwards, head back towards Capri’s main town and stroll through the Gardens of Augustus , perched on a series of terraces overlooking the Faraglioni and Bay of Marina Piccola.

After lunch, head up to Anacapri via bus. From here, you can visit the delightful Villa Michele. Built with multiple tiers and adorned with romantic columns, the gardens and terrace offer breathtaking vistas of the sapphire sea below.

If you have time, take the chairlift up to Mont Solaro , Capri’s highest peak and enjoy stunning views across the whole island.

If you’re after a completely different experience in Capri, then you can choose to head to one of Capri’s luxurious beach clubs where you can relax and take in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast.

If you want to feel Instagram-famous, lounge in the signature blue and white striped deck chairs at La Fontelina . For a local experience that’s sure to be memorable, try Bagni Tinerio with its sandy beach.

Alternatively, for grandeur beyond compare journey over to Il Riccio Beach Club located in Anacapri for an unforgettable day of luxury.

If you’d prefer to explore Capri from the sea, then you can’t beat a boat tour . Head down to Marina Piccola, where you can join a budget-friendly group tour like this one . Alternatively, hire a private boat – this private boat tour has a host of wonderful reviews.

RELATED READING | Escape to Paradise: The Insider’s Guide to Visiting Capri

Day 9: Amalfi Coast – Minori

Minori is a special town on the Amalfi Coast with a lot of rustic beauty and charm. I’ve included it on this itinerary so that you can completely relax and indulge in a thoroughly authentic experience there, instead of being overwhelmed by busyness like in other towns nearby.

I’ve spent some very happy days exploring Minori, ambling from pool to trattoria, beach to quiet piazzas.

It’s also easy to reach from Positano – you’ll just need to hop on a ferry, which will take less than 30 minutes.

I wouldn’t recommend doing a whole lot while in Minori, but there are a few things to do if you’d like to explore more.

For those who want to relax and soak up some sun, the beach in Minori is a great choice. Here, visitors can rent sun beds and umbrellas or just soak up some rays on the free spots along either side of the lido. The beach faces south, providing plenty of sunshine for most of the day.

At the centre of Minori lies the ruins of the Villa Romana , a Roman villa that was buried beneath the town for centuries until its discovery in 1932. Visitors can explore the underground chambers of this fascinating archaeological site and admire some incredibly well-preserved frescoes.

If you’re looking to experience some of the local Italian cuisine, make sure to try homemade scialatielli (thick ribbons of dough flavoured with sauces) at one of Minori’s quaint trattorias.

If you’d like to explore the area on foot, then the Sentiero dei Limoni , or “Lemon Walk”, is a great option. This short hike takes you through dozens of lemon groves and offers some stunning views of the Amalfi Coast before ending in Maiori – all within an hour if you include a few stops to take in the view.

No matter how you decide to spend your time in Minori, be sure to take some time and simply enjoy the scenery and hospitality of this beautiful coastal town. Relax in one of its many cafés, perhaps with an Aperol Spritz in hand – after all, you deserve it!

Day 10: Amalfi Coast – Amalfi & Ravello

On your final day, you are going to take a 5-minute ferry journey from Minori to Amalfi.

Amalfi has a long and storied history that dates back to the 9th century when it was one of the four maritime republics of Italy. The town reached its peak in the 11th century and grew to be an incredibly wealthy trade port with power extending to parts of the Mediterranean.

Today, the main thing to see in Amalfi is its spectacular Duomo . As you ascend the seemingly never-ending staircase, take time to appreciate its storied history.

Originally built in 1208 as a home for St. Andrew’s relics which were brought from Constantinople, it also boasts an exquisite Moorish cloister; known as the Cloister del Paradiso.

When you’ve had a little wander in Amalfi, take a Sita bus for the 25-minute journey up the hill to the town of Ravello nearby.

Ravello oozes with a quiet, dignified sophistication that the other towns of the Amalfi Coast find just out of their reach. It’s also home to some of the most spectacular views in Italy from the terraces of its two famous gardens; the gardens at Villa Rufolo and those at Villa Cimbrone.

You can purchase tickets for both gardens at their respective gates and it is entirely worth visiting both of these – although if you were to push me, the gardens at Villa Cimbrone, along with the magnificent Terrace of Infinity, are my favourite.

To get back to Minori, I highly recommend that you do this on foot if you are able. There is a weaving pathway of several hundred steps that takes you through a very local thoroughfare that is clearly marked along the way down.

The views are tremendous and the journey also affords you a sneak-peak at local life along this rather hilly part of the world. It will take you around 45-60 minutes to get down to the centre of Minori, moving at a leisurely pace. 

Homeward bound

Sadly, your 10-day cultural voyage in Italy has drawn to a close and with that, you’ll need to head back to your airport of departure.

From Minori, the easiest way to get back to a main urban centre like Naples (or Rome, if that’s where you leave from) is to take the ferry from Minori to Salerno and then catch the train to Naples central station.

From there, you’ll either be heading to Naples International Airport, or making your way further onwards to Rome. 

If you’re looking for a breathtaking, cultural vacation then look no further than Florence, Rome and the Amalfi Coast. With so much to see and do, you’ll be spoilt for choice. From exploring centuries-old art galleries in Florence to throwing a coin in the Trevi Fountain in Rome, this trip packs a serious punch.

Of course, no visit to Italy would be complete without sampling some of the delicious food on offer, and sprinkled with foodie tips for each destination, this guide should set you on the right path for discovering some delicious dining experiences while in Italy.

Discover all related Cultured Voyages travel guides below for in-depth content to help you plan your visit to each specific destination mentioned in this guide.

Is Amalfi coast worth visiting?

Certainly, the Amalfi Coast is absolutely worth a visit! With its stunning landscapes, charming coastal towns, and pristine waters, it provides a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re exploring the picturesque towns of Positano and Amalfi, savouring delectable local cuisine, or unwinding on breathtaking beaches, the Amalfi Coast ensures a luxury travel experience that is unparalleled.

How far is it from Florence to Amalfi Coast?

The distance from Florence to the Amalfi Coast is approximately 420 kilometres. The journey takes 4 to 5 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions.

If you prefer public transportation, you can take a train from Florence to Naples, which takes around 2 to 3 hours, and then continue by bus or taxi to the Amalfi Coast. It’s a scenic trip well worth the travel time.

What is the best way to travel between Florence, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast?

I found that the best way to travel between Florence, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast is by combining train rides and scenic bus journeys. It allows you to soak in the beautiful Italian landscapes while enjoying the convenience of public transportation.

Where to stop between Florence and Amalfi?

I highly recommend Naples. I had a fantastic time exploring its historical sites, savouring authentic pizza, and experiencing the vibrant local culture. Naples also offers convenient transportation connections to the stunning Amalfi Coast.

What is the easiest way to get to the Amalfi Coast?

To make it easy to reach the Amalfi Coast, I suggest taking a train from major cities like Rome or Naples to Charming Sorrento. From there, hop on a scenic bus or a relaxing ferry ride to explore the breathtaking towns along the picturesque Amalfi Coast.

Is there a high-speed train from Florence to the Amalfi Coast?

While there isn’t a direct high-speed train from Florence to the Amalfi Coast, I found that taking a high-speed train from Florence to Naples or Salerno is the most convenient option. From there, you can continue your journey to the Amalfi Coast using buses, ferries, or regional trains.

What are the best beaches to visit on the Amalfi Coast?

Two of my favourite beaches on the Amalfi Coast are Spiaggia Grande in Positano and Fornillo Beach, also located in Positano. These beaches offer stunning views of crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and colourful umbrellas, creating a perfect spot for relaxation and seaside enjoyment.

Are there any guided tours available for Florence, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast?

While you can’t find day trips covering all three destinations at once, there are fantastic guided tours available to explore Florence, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast individually. These tours provide valuable insights, local expertise, and the opportunity to make the most of your visit with ease and convenience.

What is the closest city to the Amalfi Coast, Italy?

The closest city to the Amalfi Coast is vibrant Naples. I loved using Naples as a base to explore the coast’s stunning towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. The city itself offers a lively atmosphere, incredible history, and mouthwatering cuisine, making it a fantastic starting point for Amalfi Coast adventures.

Can you do a day trip from Rome to the Amalfi Coast?

Yes, it is possible to do a day trip from Rome to the Amalfi Coast. Although it’s a bit of a long journey, the reward is well worth it. I recommend booking a guided tour that takes care of transportation, allowing you to maximize your time and enjoy the beauty of the Amalfi Coast in a single day.

Florence and Tuscany

• Florence guide | How To Spend 2 Days In Florence – A Comprehensive Guide
• Is Florence worth visiting |   Is Florence Worth Visiting? 19 Pros + 6 Cons to Help You Decide
• How many days in Florence  |  How Many Days in Florence? Essential Tips & Itineraries 2024
• Florence hotels | 14 Incredible Hotels In Florence With A Pool In 2024
• Florence vacation rentals | Ultimate List Of The Best 17 Airbnbs In Florence Italy For Luxury Lovers
• Best Chianti wine tours from Florence |  15 Best Chianti Wine Tours From Florence: 2024 Curated Picks
• Tuscany road trip | Tuscany Guide – How To Have A Very Memorable Tuscan Road Trip
• Tuscan towns | 11 Best Towns in Tuscany That You Need to Visit at Least Once
• Tuscan villas | 19 Beautiful Villas In Tuscany With Private Pools [2024]
• Rome trip planning | How Many Days Do You Need in Rome? [For Weekend Getaways, Cultural Immersions, or Something in Between]
• 4-day Rome itinerary  |  The Perfect 4-Day Rome Itinerary – Food, Culture & A Little Luxury
• Rome at night  |  19 Things To Do At Night In Rome, From Culture To Cocktails
• Colosseum at night  |  Is A Colosseum By Night Tour Worth It? An Honest & Comprehensive Review
• Best colosseum underground tours |   9 Best Colosseum Underground Tours – Dive into Gladiatorial Rome
• Colosseum by night tours  |  Best Colosseum by Night Tours: 9 Top Picks for 2024
• Best colosseum tours | 10 Best Colosseum Tours [2024] + Insider Tips to Choose Correctly

Amalfi Coast

• 10 days on Amalfi Coast  |  The Perfect 10 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary For A Luxurious But Authentic Trip
• 4 days on Amalfi Coast  |  A Blissful 4 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary – Sun, Sea & Scenery
• Ravello travel guide  |  Best things to do in Ravello – a complete Ravello Travel Guide
• Capri travel guide | Escape to Paradise: The Insider’s Guide to Visiting Capri
• Capri or Ischia | Which Island Paradise Should You Choose?

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Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

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The Best Beaches Near Rome, Florence, and Venice

July 27, 2023

If you’re looking for a beach in Italy, there are plenty of options, even if you’re staying in one of the big three tourist cities. Keep reading to discover the best beaches near Rome, Florence, and Venice.

True, it can be hard to know which of the beaches near the major cities are the cleanest and prettiest. And even harder to figure out how to reach them! If you’re jonesing for sun and sand on your Italy trip, here are the best, most convenient beaches to where you’re staying.

Table of Contents

Best beaches near Rome

You can’t beat the beach of Santa Marinella for convenience from Rome!

The most convenient beach: Santa Marinella . While it’s packed—like all of these beaches—on weekends, the sand is soft, the water is clear, the resort town has some good seafood restaurants, and there’s a stretch of free beach (i.e. where you don’t have to pay for a cabana, but can lay out your towel for free). Best of all, it’s super-convenient: just 45 minutes on the train and €4.60.

The most beautiful beach: Sperlonga. The whitewashed, picturesque town of Sperlonga perches on a cliff over the sea with the beach stretching below. The beach has also been blue-flagged , unlike Santa Marinella, which means that it has met high standards for environmental cleanliness, water quality, and safety. The downside is that Sperlonga’s tougher to reach than Santa Marinella. If you’re renting a car, it’s a 2-hour drive (longer with weekend traffic). Or you can take the train to the Fondi-Sperlonga station (€6.90; 1hr 10mins) and, from there, grab a taxi (about €20) or a bus (€1), which runs every hour in the summer.

It’s worth noting that travelers often visit the Amalfi Coast (which has a few spectacular, if small beaches) from Rome. Unfortunately it isn’t very close, requiring a roughly 3-hour drive. If you still want to make the trek, read our blog on how to get to the Amalfi Coast .

The town of Sperlonga, perched on a cliff

Best beaches near Florence

Viareggio, near Florence (photograph by Jessica Linder)

The most convenient beach: Viareggio. Although the town itself isn’t particularly picturesque, the beach has everything you could need: water, sand, restrooms, showers, and cafes. And yes, it’s been blue-flagged. The shallow water makes it great for kids, and the beach is really long, so even though it gets extremely crowded, you’ll still be able to find a spot (although renting a cabana here, which you have to do, will cost you). It takes 1.5 hours on the train from Florence, and the train station is located half a mile from the beach.

The most beautiful beach: Castiglioncello . This (blue-flagged) area of the Etruscan coast has both rocky and sandy beaches, perfectly clear water, a water sports center (snorkeling, anyone?), and spectacular scenery, complete with cliffs and coves. The fastest train route takes you there in just under 2 hours (€9.60), but the Castiglioncello train station is right near the beach.

If you are interested in other destinations easily reached from Florence, take a look at our blog on the best day trips from Florence .

The gorgeous water at Castiglioncello (photo by Francesco Federico)

Best beaches near Venice

One of the beaches on Venice’s Lido (photo by Marc-Olivier Maheu)

The most convenient beach: Lido. Venice’s Lido beach gets very crowded in the summer—but it’s been blue-flagged, the water is clean, and the sand is soft. And it couldn’t be more convenient. Several vaporetto lines run right from Venice to the Lido, including the #1, 2, 5.1, and 5.2; the cost is €7 for 60 minutes.

Beach at Caorle, near Venice (photograph by Iesse)

The most beautiful nearby beach: Caorle. A colorful fishing village turned resort town, Caorle boasts historic churches, a seafront promenade, great fish restaurants, and, yes, long stretches of sandy, and blue-flagged, beach. There are areas for children to play, gelaterie , cafes, and restaurants, making it an easy place to spend the day. Just remember that Caorle doesn’t have its own railroad station. You can get there either on a 2-hour bus ride from Venice (Check the ATVO website  for the schedule), or take the train to the Portogruaro-Caorle station and then grab one of the hourly buses.

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Rome vs. Florence: Which City Should YOU Visit?

R ome and Florence are two of the most visited – and best-loved – tourist destinations in Italy. Both cities offer fascinating historical sites, memorable cultural activities and the fantastic food and drink that Italy is famous for. 

However, if you’re wondering where to stay in Italy and only have the time and budget to visit either Florence or Rome, it’s a difficult decision to make unless you know a little about each city. 

To help you, we’ve compared everything you need to know about Rome and Florence to help you make an informed decision so you can choose the best city to stay in for your upcoming trip to Italy.  

Is It Better To Stay In Rome Or Florence?

If you’re trying to decide between where to stay in Florence or where to stay in Rome , your decision depends on what you are interested in seeing and doing when you travel and how you like to travel. 

Florence (Firenze) is the capital of Tuscany and is a small walkable city packed with art and amazing architecture. It has a captivating historic centre where all the major attractions can easily be visited on foot. It is a city made for wandering and is justifiably one of the world’s top destinations for a romantic getaway.

The Renaissance city doesn’t have a metro but its tram system is an easy and delightful method of exploring the city. Florence is an ideal choice for art and culture lovers who want a more laid-back Italian destination. 

In contrast, the Italian capital of Rome (Roma) is packed with world-famous archaeological and religious sites. The ancient city is spread out so you’ll need to use public transport (tram, bus or metro) to see everything Rome has to offer. 

Rome attracts visitors from all over the world all year round. It is a busier location than Florence and, as such, commands higher prices. Rome is an ideal choice for any travellers interested in ancient history. The capital of Italy is also the perfect place to visit for all first-time travellers to Italy. 

Rome Vs Florence: Cost

If you’re deciding whether to visit Rome or Florence it’s important to do your research to make sure your budget is appropriate for the city you wish to visit. 

In general, Florence is a little bit cheaper than Rome, and the sections below will give more details about different travel expenditures for Roma and Florence.

Accommodation

Generally speaking, accommodation in Florence is a little cheaper than accommodation in Rome.

For example, the average 5 star hotel in Rome will cost between €700 – €800 per night, though some 5 star Rome hotels charge over €1000 per night. At the other end of the scale, a 1 star hotel in Rome averages between €150 – €200 a night. 

In Florence, an average 5 star hotel will cost between €500 – €700 a night, though some luxury Florence hotels charge up to €900 a night. At the budget end of the accommodation range in Florence, a 1 star hotel averages between €100 – €150 per night. 

The cost difference between Rome and Florence may not seem much per night, but the difference will quickly mount up if you’re staying in Rome for more than a few days. 

Both cities offer hotels with special features such as a central location, scenic views,  historic character, rooftop terraces and spa’s. There’s also a good selection of hotels with pools in Florence and Rome which are perfect for cooling down after long sightseeing days in summer. 

As the capital city and a popular tourist destination, Rome will always see higher prices than Florence all year round but, especially in peak season. Prices will also soar around religious festivals such as Christmas and Easter.

So, if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll find your money goes a little further in Florence than in Rome. 

The cost of food and drink in Florence and Rome are similar. However, despite their close proximity, both cities offer visitors some speciality dishes which might tempt you to choose one city over the other. 

Rome is a meat lover’s paradise. We recommend trying the delicious local specialty saltimbocca alla Romana, which is thin slices of veal topped with prosciutto and sage cooked in white wine and butter. Another tasty choice is Carciofi alla Romana which is locally grown artichokes cooked with garlic, mint, and white wine.

Spaghetti Carbonara originated in Rome so you’ll find it served in most restaurants. Our favourite version is served with eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, and cured pork cheek. 

Tuscan cuisine is known for its simple style and locally sourced, fresh ingredients. Specialities to look out for in Florence include coccoli (deep-fried bread dough) and bistecca alla Fiorentina, a rare, seasoned steak grilled over roasted chestnuts.

Our must-eat when we visit Florence is Schiacciata Fiorentina. It’s a sweet, small sponge cake covered in powdered sugar and decorated on top with cocoa powder on top. Don’t miss the chance to eat it, it’s delicious!

Things to do in Rome vs. Florence

Both Rome and Florence offer a diverse range of free sights and activities so if you’re visiting Italy on a budget, you can prioritise free things to do first. For example, St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome is free, as is Il Duomo di Firenze, Florence’s principal cathedral. 

Other free things to do in Rome include The Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese and the Trevi Fountain. Free things to do in Florence include Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence and Piazza della Signoria. 

Whichever city you choose to visit, we highly recommend just wandering around soaking up the incredible architecture and pretty plazas. 

Paid activities and tourist sites in Rome and Florence cost a similar amount. For example, entry to the famous Colosseum in Rome costs €16 per adult and the Vatican Museum costs €20. 

In Florence, the popular Uffizi Gallery costs €25 per adult in peak season, whilst a tour of Boboli Gardens costs €10.

If you want to see the top sites in either Florence or Rome, you’ll need to allocate a portion of your trip budget to sightseeing. 

Another aspect to consider is the day trips you can take from Rome or Florence. 

Easy day trips from Rome include exploring the wider Lazio region, the ancient ruins of Ostia Antica, the UNESCO-listed Etruscan city of Cerveteri, the beautiful town of Tivoli or even Pompeii. Foodies should visit Naples or Castelli Romani. 

Day trips from Florence include the stunning mediaeval town of Siena, the hilltop town San Gimignano, the beautiful walled city of Lucca or the famous leaning tower of Pisa. It’s also possible to take a trip from Florence to the iconic Cinque Terre and the Italian coast. 

Rome vs Florence: Nightlife

If you want a limitless choice of bars and all-night clubs boasting the latest trends, Rome is the city for you. It also offers a wide range of jazz bars, comedy clubs and live music events. There’s something for everyone in Roma. 

Florence also has lots of bars, clubs and late-night restaurants but Florence isn’t as frenetic as Rome nor does it offer the same number of nightlife hotspots. Florence has a predominantly wine bar culture and bar hopping in Florence is very popular. 

Overall Atmosphere In Rome and Florence

Both Rome and Florence have a vibrant, non-stop buzz, fuelled by the students and international visitors that flock to the city to travel, live and work. 

However, in our experience, Florence is a little quieter than Rome and it’s easier to get off the beaten track and lose yourself in quiet, residential side streets and locally frequented cafes and bars. 

If you want a more authentic Italian experience, we recommend choosing Florence. 

How To Get To Rome Or Florence

Rome has two international airports you can fly into – Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA). Ciampino is the closest airport geographically to the city but Fiumicino has good rail links directly into the city centre.  

Florence International Airport, Firenze Peretola (FLR), is just 6 km from the centre of Florence. However, many visitors fly into Pisa’s Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA), which is around 80 km from Florence. 

From Pisa, you’ll need to drive, take a bus or a local train to reach the centre of Florence. 

If you’re travelling to Rome or Florence from another location in Italy, the cities are served by good bus and rail links. 

How About Visiting Both Rome And Florence?

We recommend visiting both Rome and Florence if possible; the cities are contrasting but each one has so much to offer. 

Staying in Rome doesn’t mean you cannot visit Florence or vice versa. The two cities are close together, so if you’re short on time, we recommend visiting one city from the other on a quick but affordable day trip. 

A high-speed train from Florence to Rome (and vice versa) only takes 1 hour 36 minutes with one-way tickets starting from as little as €22 ($24). 

If this option appeals to you, we recommend staying in Rome and daytripping to Florence. 

Florence’s main attractions are in a geographically compact area so you’ll be able to cover a lot of sites in one long day trip. This would be harder and more time consuming to do in Rome unless you only visit one part of the capital. 

Conclusion: Is Rome Or Florence Best For You?

As we’ve previously mentioned, choosing whether to stay in Rome or Florence depends on what your interests are. If you love architecture, art and culture, choose Florence. You’ll love it as much as we do.

If you want to visit world renowned historic and religious sites choose Rome. It’s a city like no other; there’s a reason why Rome is called the ‘Eternal City’. 

If you’re travelling on a tight budget, your money will go further in Florence, but if you’re a night owl, Rome is the best choice for you. 

As you can see, both cities would be a great choice for your trip – which one you choose, depends on what you want to get out of your vacation. 

However, we think you won’t be disappointed with whichever fabulous Italian city you choose. Either Rome or Florence will provide you with an unforgettable trip to Italy. 

The post Rome vs. Florence: Which City Should YOU Visit? appeared first on Travel + Tannins .

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Where to Stay in Florence: The Best Neighborhoods For Your Visit

With its iconic Renaissance architecture, picturesque streets, world-class museums, and incredible food, Florence is one of my favorite cities in Italy . I’ve been a handful of times over the years and it never disappoints.

It’s also a compact and easily walkable city, so nothing is too far from anything else. That said, each neighborhood has its own unique feel and accommodation options. For that reason, it’s a good idea to choose a neighborhood that best suits your travel style and budget.

To help you do just that, here’s my list of the best neighborhoods in Florence:

Table of Contents

Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors: Centro Storico

Where to stay for budget travelers: santa maria novella, where to stay for food and nightlife: santa croce, where to stay for feeling like a local: oltrarno, get your in-depth budget guide to europe.

It’s also a good neighborhood if you’re looking to do some shopping. For luxury, head to Via de’ Tornabuoni, where all the high-end designers have storefronts, while Ponte Vecchio is the place to go if you’re in the market for jewelry.

You’ll also have the largest array of accommodation options here. Just keep in mind that it gets incredibly crowded in the summer, and prices skyrocket accordingly.

Best places to stay in Centro Storico :

• BUDGET : Emerald Palace – Offering affordable private rooms and dorms (including female-only dorms), Emerald Palace is an excellent no-frills option for budget travelers who don’t want to compromise on location. The rooms are spacious, with beautiful painted ceilings and terracotta floors, and everything (including the shared bathrooms) is kept sparkling clean. While there aren’t a ton of amenities here (though there is breakfast and a guest kitchen), it’s a friendly and affordable choice in the heart of the historic center.
• MIDRANGE : Hotel Davanzati – This cozy three-star hotel offers a lot of value, with a complimentary continental breakfast, afternoon tea, and an aperitivo hour with prosecco. The rooms are a bit dated in their décor, but they are spacious, with comfy beds, a desk, a flatscreen TV, and a wardrobe. The bathrooms are large too and have heated towel racks, as well as nice showers with excellent water pressure. The staff really go out of their way to help with anything you need too.
• LUXURY : Hotel Bernini Palace – It feels like you’re staying in a palace in this five-star hotel, set in a 15th-century building. The elegant rooms are spacious and feature wood-beamed ceilings, parquet or terracotta floors, glass chandeliers, antique furnishings, and plush beds with gilded headboards. They also have all the amenities you’d expect from a hotel of this caliber, including minibars, flatscreen TVs, desks, and air conditioning. There’s a complimentary breakfast buffet too, served in a room with a frescoed ceiling that used to be a meeting place for members of Italy’s parliament!

The area around Piazza Santa Maria Novella and south toward the river is a bit more upscale, while most hostels are concentrated just to the northeast of the train station. Just avoid staying right next to the train station, as it’s not the not the nicest section of the neighborhood.

Best places to stay in Santa Maria Novella:

• BUDGET : Ostello Bello Firenze – This lively hostel has a cozy common room, guest kitchen, and bar where all guests get a free welcome drink. There’s also a rooftop terrace and lots of social events throughout the week (such as live music or parties). It’s a really easy hostel to meet people in. Plus, all dorm rooms have ensuite bathrooms and lockers and are filled with lots of natural light. It’s one of the best hostels in town.
• MIDRANGE : Hotel Alba Palace – This beautiful three-star hotel is decorated in a traditional Florentine style. Each room is unique, with historic features that include antique terracotta floors, arched ceilings, and exposed brick walls. The fantastic complimentary breakfast is served in a tranquil atrium with a glass ceiling. All rooms have a flatscreen TV, minibar, desk, Nespresso machine, hairdryer, and safe. While the bathrooms are small, there’s great water pressure in the showers. There are even rooms with a twin bed in case you’re a solo traveler looking to save money but don’t want to stay in a hostel.
• LUXURY : The Place Firenze – This five-star hotel is located right on Piazza Santa Maria Novella in a restored 17th-century building. All the rooms in this award-winning boutique property are decorated in pastel colors, with unique artwork, chandeliers, bespoke furniture, and elegant marble bathrooms. Each soundproofed room comes with a flatscreen TV, minibar, and a desk. There’s also a complimentary breakfast on the hotel’s outdoor terrace on the piazza, and a rooftop with incredible views, not to mention exceptionally helpful staff.

If you’re after good food and a more low-key atmosphere, head to Sant’Ambrogio, a micro-neighborhood that surrounds the market of the same name.

Best places to stay in Santa Croce:

• BUDGET : B&B Hotel Firenze City Center – This bed-and-breakfast is your best choice for budget-friendly accommodation in Santa Croce. It features simple, light-filled rooms with a desk and flatscreen TV. The bathrooms have a bidet, complimentary toiletries, and a hairdryer. There’s a breakfast buffet in the mornings too (9.50 EUR) with croissants, cakes, muffins, cereals, yoghurt, and eggs.
• MIDRANGE : La Maison du Sage – This four-star hotel is eclectically designed, with Art Deco furniture, hardwood floors, and brightly colored walls. The rooms are spacious, filled with natural light, and include a minibar, flatscreen satellite TV, Nespresso coffee machine, and kettle for tea. The bathrooms are sleekly designed and spacious, with a bidet and a walk-in shower (some rooms have separate tubs). There’s also an excellent breakfast buffet boasting pastries, juice, eggs, ham, cheese, and fresh fruit.
• LUXURY : Relais Santa Croce, by Baglioni Hotels – This five-star hotel is set in an 18th-century building that retains its historic décor (including frescoed ceilings and hardwood floors). Each spacious guestroom contains different historic elements, such as a four-poster bed or exposed beams. All of the airy rooms have a desk, flatscreen TV, minibar, and large bathroom with a bidet, bathrobes, and complimentary bath products. There’s also a tasty free breakfast each morning with lots of variety.

This area is not without its own attractions though, home to both Pitti Palace and the whimsical Boboli Gardens. Overall, Oltrarno is best for travelers looking for a more authentic and local experience away from the tourist crowds.

Best places to stay in Oltrarno:

• BUDGET : “il Pitti” Soggiorno – There aren’t any hostels here (you’ll mostly find midrange accommodation in this area), but this hotel directly across the street from Pitti Palace offers affordable and comfy private rooms with ensuite or shared bathrooms. The rooms are painted in cheery pastel colors and have lots of natural light, as well as parquet floors. The décor is a bit dated, but all rooms have a desk, wardrobe, electric kettle, and bathroom with a rainfall shower and bidet. It’s a great no-frills option for budget travelers that want to stay in a quieter neighborhood.
• MIDRANGE : Hotel Palazzo Guadagni – Situated in a 16th-century Florentine palace on a quiet square, this three-star hotel boasts elegantly decorated rooms with frescoed ceilings, large windows, antique furniture, and fireplaces. In-room amenities include a minibar, flatscreen TV, safe, and tiled bathroom with a heated towel rack, a bidet, fluffy bathrobes, and slippers. There’s also a fantastic complimentary breakfast and a rooftop with stunning views over the city. I think the value for what you get here is fantastic. It feels much more luxurious than your typical three-star hotel.
• LUXURY : Hotel Lungarno – Lungarno Collection – Located just steps from Ponte Vecchio bridge leading into Centro Storico, this gorgeous five-star hotel features original modern art throughout. The spacious, light-filled rooms have Italian white marble bathrooms with a bidet and luxury toiletries, and all rooms have a desk, a flatscreen TV, a minibar, and sound-proofed walls. There’s also a Michelin-starred restaurant and an excellent breakfast spread here.

Florence is like a giant open-air museum. It’s impossibly beautiful and bursting with historic sites and stunning architecture. By using the list above to pick the neighborhood that best suits your needs, you’ll be able to make the most of your stay in Tuscany’s largest city!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Florence: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Florence? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Florence for even more planning tips!

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