Florence is one of the best bases in Italy for family travel. Within one to two hours you can reach medieval towns, beaches, mountains, castles, vineyards, cycling routes and some of Italy’s most famous landmarks. For families with children, day trips are often the perfect way to balance museums and city sightseeing with outdoor adventures and new experiences.
If you are spending four days or more in Florence, I highly recommend adding at least one or two day trips. Tuscany is incredibly diverse, and many of the region’s most memorable family experiences lie outside Florence itself.
This guide covers the best family-friendly day trips from Florence, including travel times, what children will enjoy and photography opportunities for parents.
Best Family Day Trips From Florence
- Pisa
- Lucca
- Siena
- San Gimignano
- Chianti
- Mugello
- Bologna
- Cinque Terre
- Arezzo
- Pistoia Zoo
- Vinci
- Montecatini Terme
Pisa
Travel Time: About 1 hour by train
Pisa is the easiest and most popular day trip from Florence. While adults come to see the Leaning Tower, children usually enjoy climbing it, photographing it and recreating the famous “holding up the tower” photos.
The Piazza dei Miracoli is compact and easy to explore, making this an excellent option for families.
Best Things for Kids
- Leaning Tower
- Climbing the tower
- Large open lawns
- Historic buildings
Photography Highlights
- Leaning Tower
- Piazza dei Miracoli
- Cathedral architecture
- Sunset city views
Lucca
Travel Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Lucca may actually be the best day trip for families. The city’s complete Renaissance walls surround the historic center and have been converted into a park and cycling route.
Renting bikes and cycling around the walls is one of the most enjoyable family activities in Tuscany.
Best Things for Kids
- Bike rides
- City walls
- Piazzas
- Towers
- Gelato
San Gimignano
Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours
Known as the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages,” San Gimignano looks like something from a fantasy movie. The medieval towers immediately capture children’s imaginations.
Best Things for Kids
- Medieval towers
- Castle atmosphere
- Ice cream shops
- Historic streets
Photography Highlights
- Tower skyline
- Sunset viewpoints
- Tuscan countryside
Siena
Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours
Siena is one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. The enormous Piazza del Campo provides plenty of space for children while adults enjoy the architecture and atmosphere.
The city’s medieval character often feels more authentic than Florence.
Chianti
Travel Time: 30–60 minutes by car
Many people assume Chianti is only for wine lovers, but families can enjoy beautiful villages, scenic drives, farm visits and countryside walks.
Agriturismo farms often welcome families and may offer animals, playgrounds and outdoor activities.
Photography Highlights
- Cypress roads
- Rolling hills
- Vineyards
- Sunrise landscapes
Mugello
Travel Time: About 1 hour
North of Florence, Mugello offers forests, lakes and outdoor activities. It is a great option for families wanting nature after several days in the city.
Bologna
Travel Time: 40 minutes by high-speed train
Bologna is one of Italy’s most underrated cities for families. The covered arcades make walking comfortable in both sunshine and rain.
It is also one of the best food destinations in Italy.
Best Things for Kids
- Tower climbs
- Food markets
- Gelato
- Historic streets
Cinque Terre
Travel Time: Around 2.5 hours
If your children enjoy scenic landscapes, colorful villages and short hikes, Cinque Terre can be an unforgettable day trip.
Older children and teenagers often particularly enjoy exploring the coastal trails.
Arezzo
Travel Time: About 1 hour
Arezzo receives far fewer tourists than Florence but offers beautiful squares, medieval streets and a relaxed atmosphere.
Pistoia Zoo
Travel Time: About 45 minutes
One of the best pure family attractions near Florence. If your children need a break from churches and museums, this is an excellent choice.
Vinci
Travel Time: Around 1 hour
The birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci offers interactive exhibits and a fascinating look at one of history’s greatest inventors.
Montecatini Terme
Travel Time: About 1 hour
Families can ride the historic funicular railway and enjoy beautiful views over Tuscany.
Best Day Trips for Families With Children Aged 9–13
- Pisa
- Lucca
- San Gimignano
- Bologna
- Cinque Terre
- Vinci
Best Nature Day Trips From Florence
- Chianti
- Mugello
- Cinque Terre
- Montecatini Terme
Best Photography Day Trips From Florence
- San Gimignano
- Chianti
- Cinque Terre
- Siena
- Lucca
Related Travel Guides
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- Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Florence
- Best Instagram Spots in the Dolomites for Great Shots
- Best Autumn Photography in the Dolomites
- Best Hikes at Lake Bled for Great Photos
- About the Author
About the Author
Fredrik Wallgren is a Swedish travel photographer who has visited 47 countries across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. Through Frewa Photo he shares travel guides, photography locations and practical itineraries to help travelers discover beautiful places and capture better photographs.
Learn more: https://frewaphoto.com/about/
FAQ
What is the best day trip from Florence with kids?
Pisa and Lucca are usually the easiest and most rewarding family day trips from Florence.
Is Pisa worth a day trip from Florence?
Yes. The short train journey and iconic Leaning Tower make it one of the most popular family excursions from Florence.
What is better for families, Pisa or Siena?
Pisa is generally better for younger children, while Siena may appeal more to older children interested in history and architecture.
Can you visit Cinque Terre as a day trip from Florence?
Yes, although it makes for a long day. Families with active children and teenagers often find it worthwhile.
What is the most beautiful town near Florence?
San Gimignano is often considered the most photogenic thanks to its medieval towers and hilltop setting.
Is Lucca worth visiting with children?
Absolutely. Cycling around the city walls is one of the best family activities in Tuscany.
How many days should families spend in Florence?
Four to five days is ideal, allowing time to explore Florence itself and take one or two memorable day trips.