Florence is an incredible city in the heart of Italy, but sometimes it’s nice to get away from the hustle of a city. The small size of Florence makes it a great place to explore the Tuscany region. If you’re done seeing the best things to do in Florence, then it’s time to get out and explore the area. Here are seven of the best small towns near Florence worth a visit!
Don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and out of the crowds of Florence to explore some of these small towns. Their charming personalities, historical sites, and hospitality are worth at least one day (if not more) to really enjoy!
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Assisi
Assisi is a small town located in the underrated province of Umbria in Italy. Like its much more famous big brother – Tuscany – Umbria offers its visitors beautiful unspoiled towns, scrumptious food to be washed down with locally produced wine, and tops it off with a generous sprinkling of Italian hospitality. All this at a fraction of the prices you will find in Tuscany.
The town is known to be the birthplace of Saint Francis (of Assisi), the founder of the Franciscan religion. The little town is therefore unsurprisingly the site of many pilgrimages. The Basilica di San Francesco looks rather unassuming from the outside, but if there is one site you absolutely need to visit it is this Basilica. The interior will have you scrambling to pick up your mouth off the floor and leave you speechless. After your visit head over to Piazza del Comune for a refreshing gelato and indulge in some people-watching.
Getting to Assisi is very easy, making it one of the best small towns near Florence. There is a direct train between Firenze (station Campo Marte) and Assisi. Services depart every four hours and run every day. The journey takes between 2h 30 and 3h30, depending on the type of train you choose. One-way ticket will set you back around 15€. You can also do this day tour which covers Assissi and Cortona! If you can spend the night, here are the best places to stay in Assisi, Italy.
Certaldo
Located just a short distance from Florence, the small town of Certaldo offers a serene and authentic experience, showcasing its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside.
As you arrive in Certaldo, you’ll be captivated by its enchanting atmosphere. The town is divided into two distinct parts: Certaldo Alto, the historic upper town, and Certaldo Basso, the modern lower town. Certaldo Alto is the true gem, with its ancient walls, medieval towers, and Renaissance palaces. Its narrow streets wind their way up the hill, leading you to the heart of the town where you’ll find the charming Piazza Boccaccio.
One of the highlights of visiting Certaldo is exploring the Casa di Boccaccio, the former home of Italian writer Giovanni Boccaccio. This 14th-century house-turned-museum provides a glimpse into the life and times of Boccaccio, featuring artifacts and exhibitions dedicated to his literary contributions, including the famous Decameron. You can also visit the Nails Museum, which is all about (you guessed it) nails! You’ll learn about its role in various trades throughout Tuscany
As you wander through the streets of Certaldo, you’ll discover artisan shops, quaint cafes, and local restaurants serving up traditional Tuscan cuisine. Indulge in the flavors of the region, savoring dishes made with fresh, local ingredients and accompanied by the world-renowned wines of Tuscany.
Visiting Certaldo from Florence offers a serene retreat from the bustling city and provides a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. Whether you explore the medieval streets, visit historic sites, or simply soak in the picturesque beauty of the Tuscan countryside, Certaldo is sure to leave you with lasting memories of a quintessentially Italian experience.
Corniglia
Visiting Corniglia from Florence is a journey to one of the hidden gems of the Italian Riviera. Nestled high on a cliff overlooking the sparkling waters of the Ligurian Sea, Corniglia is a picturesque village that exudes charm and tranquility. While it requires some effort to reach this enchanting destination, the rewards are well worth it.
To reach Corniglia, you can take a scenic train ride from Florence to the Cinque Terre region, followed by a short hike or a shuttle bus ride up to the village. The journey itself offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, vineyards, and terraced hillsides that define the region’s beauty.
Once you arrive in Corniglia, you’ll be greeted by a small and intimate village characterized by its narrow streets, colorful houses, and panoramic vistas. Unlike the other four villages of the Cinque Terre, Corniglia is perched on top of a cliff, providing sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
Exploring Corniglia on foot allows you to immerse yourself in its relaxed atmosphere. You can wander through the winding streets, stumble upon hidden corners, and discover local shops offering artisanal products such as olive oil, wine, and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the chance to sample the renowned local delicacy, pesto, made from fresh basil and served with homemade pasta.
For those seeking adventure, the hiking trails that connect the Cinque Terre villages offer stunning vistas of the rugged coastline and the azure sea. A hike from Corniglia to Vernazza or Manarola allows you to experience the breathtaking beauty of the region firsthand.
Lucca
Lucca, a walled town, is one of the best small towns near Florence. It’s known for its historic wall and peaceful charm and atmosphere.
It’s earned its nickname “City of 100 Churches” because there are so many church bell towers that you can see from the city walls. Be sure to make a stop at San Michele in Foro. The exterior is absolutely breathtaking with sculptures and intricate details around it.
A popular activity in Lucca is strolling or cycling along the town’s medieval walls, which date back to the mid-1600s! The walls offer stunning views of the town’s rooftops, bell towers, and the Apennine mountains.
Don’t skip the main plaza in town – Piazza Anfiteatro. It actually used to be an ancient Roman amphitheater. That’s why it has an oval shape. Don’t skip the Torre Guinigi (built by a family of the same name). The tower actually has trees growing on top of it!
You can take the train from Florence or drive. There is parking right outside the city walls at Parcheggio Carducci.
Manarola
Manarola is one of the five villages of the Cinque Terre region, located about 100 miles (161 km) west of Florence. While it sounds far away, it is really easy to reach by train. This small town is nestled on rocky cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea. The colorful houses are breathtaking up against the blue waters.
One of the best things to do in Manarola (and all of Cinque Terre) is to go hiking. There are beautiful views all around Cinque Terre. Be sure to visit Nessun Dorna for delicious local wine and this incredible view of the town. We enjoyed wandering through the small roads of the town – many of which are unlabeled (which the directionally challenged in me *loves*). Get food at a focacceria – which specializes in pizza. Manarola is known for its fresh seafood, so be sure to try some during your stay!
If you only have a short time to see the Cinque Terre area, this tour is a great way to see the area!
Pontedera
Situated between Florence and Pisa, Pontedera is a quiet destination. It is a bit off the highway and is an easy trip from Florence, Vinci, Lucca, Livorno, and Viareggio. There is easy access to Pontedera from Florence. Take fast trains from Florence to Pontedera that run frequently and take you only 42 minutes to reach there. Also, there are various rail routes to take.
Visiting Pontedera can offer a lot of fun things to do including visiting the Mediterranean beaches that are only ten minutes from here. There are reasons why travelers are starting to love Pontedera. Some of the top things that they love and visitors can do include visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa, enjoying private cooking classes at a local’s home, attending Pisa Walking tour and more. Travelers can spot the oldest building in town, the Church of the Santissimo Crocifisso that was built in 1272. Some of the other heritages include the clock tower, Elegant Villa Crastan and Piazza Garibaldi.
One of the most famous attractions in the Pontedera is the Piaggio Museum that displays numerous Vespas from its start to the present. There’s, even more, to witness in the small town that tells a lot about its history and culture. Apart from the civic sculptures, the town also offers great hemp clothing brands and delicious food that make a vacation complete. Along with shopping, travelers can enjoy great food at one of the popular restaurants in town like La Polveriera.
Portovenere
Portovenere is one of the most beautiful coastal towns along the Ligurian coast, yet in the shadow of Cinque Terre. Though some say it is the sixth town of Cinque Terre, it hardly gets as much attention as it deserves. The easiest way to get there from Florence is by car. By public transport, you need to first get to Pisa, which is 1-1,5 hours by train, and then you can take a bus or train to La Spezzia which is another 1 hour 20 minutes. From Spezia you can take a boat or a local bus the last hour. Driving only takes 2 hours and 15 minutes.
There are plenty of things to do in Portovenere with the iconic Church of Saint Peter being the most noteworthy attraction. The church sits on top of a rock on a small peninsula diving into the deep turquoise sea. Other landmarks worth visiting are Doria castle and San Lorenzo Church which contains the painting of Madonna Bianca which is celebrated every 17th of August when the villagers carry her through the town. The colorful Palazzata is also part of history. The slim houses are built in front of the rock to protect the town from enemy attacks, which is why they do not have balconies and big windows. Splurge at Grand Hotel Portovenere for a memorable vacation.
San Gimignano
Using Florence as a base when visiting Tuscany is perfect as you can branch out and visit the most beautiful small towns around the city on a day trip. One of these towns is San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990 and honestly probably one of the most gorgeous towns in Tuscany.
San Gimignano is famous for its fascinating medieval architecture and the 14 towers that can be seen from far away.
But the Village has more to offer than just towers. When visiting San Gimignano you have the chance to step back in time whilst enjoying local products, like saffron and its white wine, the Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Find yourself a place in one of the small restaurants with views overlooking the Tuscan hillsides and feel in paradise. Oh, and not to forget, in the middle of the town is a gourmet and world-class ice cream shop. You will find it easily as there is always a queue of people waiting to savour this treat.
The road distance from Florence to San Gimignano by car is 56.7 km. There are several car parks around the walled town and it is better to check online in which car parking place there is space. This place gets busy during peak season. You can also travel from Florence to San Gimignano by bus, you will need to change at Poggibonsi. The journey will take you about 2h. You can also explore San Gimignano on this day trip that includes lunch!
Vernazza
Vernazza is one of the five towns that make up Cinque Terre, a series of small coastal towns well known for their bright colors and quaint nature. Cinque Terre can be experienced over the course of several days or the highlights can be seen in a one-day traveling from Florence or another nearby town. To visit Vernazza and the other towns it is a two-hour drive to La Spezia where you can travel by train to all five towns.
Vernazza is best experienced by wandering the narrow streets and popping into the cute shops and cafés that dart the streets or watching the ships come into the harbor. Cars are not allowed in Vernazza, so feel free to linger and explore among the pastel buildings on foot.
While in Vernazza, you must visit the Belforte Tower, where you can catch a view of the town and sea. There is even a restaurant located in the tower for an unforgettable meal! Another viewpoint can be hiked to at the other end of town that looks over the entire town. If you are just looking to relax, Vernazza is perfect for that as well and has several beaches to visit for a swim.
Vinci
A visit to Vinci, Italy from Florence is a journey through time and an exploration of the birthplace of one of history’s greatest minds, Leonardo da Vinci. Located just a short distance from Florence, Vinci offers a charming escape into the picturesque Tuscan countryside and an opportunity to delve into the life and legacy of this renowned polymath.
As you leave Florence behind and make your way to Vinci, you’ll be greeted by rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves that epitomize the rustic beauty of Tuscany. Vinci itself is a small, idyllic town nestled on a hill, boasting narrow cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The main attraction in Vinci is the Museo Leonardiano, dedicated to the life and works of Leonardo da Vinci. Housed in the majestic Castello dei Conti Guidi, the museum offers a comprehensive exploration of Leonardo’s genius, showcasing replicas of his inventions, anatomical studies, and artistic masterpieces. The exhibits provide fascinating insights into the mind of this visionary genius, allowing visitors to unravel the mysteries behind his groundbreaking ideas and innovations.
In addition to the museum, Vinci also offers other attractions worth exploring. The town itself is charming, with quaint cafes, local shops selling artisanal crafts, and a serene ambiance that invites you to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of life. You can also visit the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, a humble farmhouse known as Casa Natale di Leonardo, which has been lovingly restored to reflect the atmosphere of the era.
A visit to Vinci from Florence is not just a journey to appreciate the artistic and scientific achievements of Leonardo da Vinci but also an opportunity to experience the quintessential beauty of Tuscany. It allows you to immerse yourself in the countryside, indulge in local cuisine and wines, and gain a deeper understanding of the man whose legacy continues to inspire and captivate the world.
Volterra
A really beautiful small town near Florence is Volterra in Tuscany. This medieval town is located about 80 kilometers from the Tuscan capital and a day trip there is absolutely worthwhile. Somewhat off the typical tourist paths, one experiences a unique flair here and sometimes even feels transported back in time.
Particularly beautiful is the medieval old town of Volterra, which towers over 500 meters above the beautiful Tuscan hills. During a walk through the town you will discover really beautiful places and countless photo spots.
The town is also known as the Etruscan city, because the history of Volterra goes back to the 4th century BC, when this people settled the region. Even today you can visit archeological sites and remains of Etruscan art in various museums. Later, the Romans settled this historic town, whose Teatro Romano has become an important attraction of Volterra.
But not only the town is beautiful, also the food is very tasty in this region. As an insider tip we can tell you the L`Incontro. In this café, you get really delicious dolci (desserts) and mega-good coffee at a reasonable price! If you’re short on time, check out this tour which allows you to see Volterra and San Gimignano while enjoying local delicacies!
In Volterra, but also around the city in the beautiful vineyards, you will find a fabulous selection of beautiful accommodations. Highly recommended is the Agriturismo Podere Marcampo – a family-run farm with pool, amazing views, and delicious wine tastings. Volterra’s variety of things to do makes it one of the best small towns near Florence!
Final Thoughts
While Florence is often at the top of any Italy itinerary, the smaller towns are often forgotten about. But these charming towns and villages. From historical sites to mouthwatering food, these small towns near Florence can bring the area to a special place in our hearts when we travel.
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We want to go from Cinque Terre Monterosso to Venice. Can you recommend the best way in the shortest time (we are currently in Florence)
Hi, the best way would probably get the high-speed train from Corniglia. I believe that takes about 6 hours but would require a transfer. I think it stops in Florence and Pisa as well.
I plan to spend a good amount of time reading this post to get ideas for our trip to Italy. We are imagining a family reunion trip to Tuscany that would include two little kids, ages 6 months and 2.5 yrs. We are thinking it would be best to be in a house in a charming town on a main train line so the three couples can take day trips to Florence. Ideally we could go out everyday with kids in strollers or rent bikes as needed for rides into the countryside. Which of the towns do you feel that best decribes?
We appreciate your blog and all your insights!
That sounds like a great idea! Having a home base tends to make it easier for family travel. I would probably say Assisi has what you’re looking for – and here’s my guide for hotels in Assisi https://directionallychallengedtraveler.com/where-to-stay-in-assisi-italy/ but I always recommend Hotel Sorella Luna.
Hello Pamela, we will be in Florence for 3 nights and are keen to visit couple of small towns near Florence which are not more than 30-50 kms away. Our interests would be to experience authentic Tuscany and also some local village/farm shops to enjoy. Look forward to your suggestions.
That’s quite close to Florence. I’d say Plato, it’s about 40km away and is famous for the textile industry.
I love Italy and I love to see your list of favorite small Italian towns is similar to mine but also has some new places that I need to add to my next itinerary.
Your post makes me want to return and spend more time exploring the area around Florence.
So many beautiful small towns in this part of Italy. I’ve gotten to visit Cinque Terre and Assisi but there’s soooo much more to see. Would love to visit Voltera looks lovely!