PS if you need help exploring Florence, check out our guide Top 10 Things to do in Florence.
Cinque Terre: A Coastal Escape from Florence
If you’re craving a break from Florence’s historic streets and Renaissance art, a day trip to Cinque Terre offers the perfect coastal escape. Located along the rugged Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre is a collection of five picturesque villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—each offering its unique charm and breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea.
Each village in Cinque Terre has its own character. We especially loved Vernazza, with its charming streets and colorful buildings. The walk to the other side of the village to get that iconic view of the port was one of our favorite moments—absolutely breathtaking.
For the adventurous, the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) offers a stunning hike between the villages. The trail between Monterosso and Vernazza is particularly scenic but be prepared for some steep climbs.
How to Get There:
- By Car: While driving is an option, it’s not recommended due to limited parking and the narrow, winding roads. If you choose to drive, park in La Spezia and take the train from there. Keep in mind that the villages get crowded very quickly, so try to start your day as early as possible. We visited during the pandemic and didn’t face this issue, but with tourism now at its peak, crowds are inevitable. Additionally, when driving to the villages, be prepared to park a few kilometers away and walk or take a shuttle to reach the village centers.
- By Train: The easiest and most efficient way to reach Cinque Terre from Florence is by train. Take a direct train from Florence to La Spezia (about 2.5 hours), then transfer to the local train that connects all five villages. The journey is scenic and hassle-free, and you’ll be dropped at the center of the villages.
Tips:
- Get the Cinque Terre Card: This card gives you unlimited train travel between the villages and access to the hiking trails. It’s worth the investment if you plan to explore multiple villages or hike.
- Start Early: Cinque Terre is a popular destination, and the villages can get crowded, especially in the summer. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the beauty of the villages before the crowds arrive.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The villages are best explored on foot, and the terrain for some viewpoints can be steep and uneven, so comfortable shoes are a must.
We really loved visiting Cinque Terre, each village is unique and beatutifull in it’s own way. We spent the whole day there and managed to see everything we planned.
A day trip to Cinque Terre is a beautiful coastal experience and we loved spending the day there. Whether you’re hiking the trails or simply soaking in the views, Cinque Terre is sure to be a great addition to Tuscany!
San Marino: A New Country to Add to Your List
Just 2.5 hours from Florence or Siena, a day trip to San Marino offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the smallest and oldest countries in the world. Completely surrounded by Italy, this independent republic is perched atop Mount Titano, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and, on a clear day, all the way to Croatia.
San Marino’s capital, also called San Marino, is a charming medieval city built as a fortress on the hill. The highlight of your visit will be the Three Towers: Guaita, De La Fratta, and Montale. Guaita is the most famous, and from its peak, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the entire region. The narrow, winding streets of the city are perfect for exploring on foot, with plenty of shops, cafes, and historical sites to discover along the way.
Adding San Marino to your Tuscany road trip gives you the chance to experience a new country in just one afternoon. We did exactly that—arriving at sunrise and exploring until noon, as we were tight on time—and still had the loveliest time in this charming place. It’s the perfect way to add a little extra adventure to your itinerary!
How to Get There:
- By Car: The most convenient way to reach San Marino from Florence or Siena is by car. The drive takes about 2.5 hours, and once you arrive, you can park in one of the designated parking areas just outside the historic center.
- By Train and Bus: Alternatively, you can take a train from Florence(approximately 2 hours by high-speed train).
Tips:
- Arrive Before Sunrise: Try to get to San Marino just before sunrise. Since the town is on a hill, you’ll have amazing views of everything around. That early morning light just before the sun comes up is calm and peaceful, making it a great time to enjoy the quiet before the crowds show up. Plus, it’s perfect for capturing some beautiful photos. It’s a great way to start your day of exploring.
- Parking: If you’re driving, there are several parking lots just outside the historic center. The P6 parking lot is a popular choice as it’s closest to the main entrance, but it can fill up quickly, so arriving early is key.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The streets of San Marino are steep and cobblestone, so comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating the town and climbing to the towers.
San Marino was a quick stop for us, but we loved every minute of it! It’s fascinating that this little place is a country. So if you are in the neighbourhood, don’t miss it.
Whether you’re chasing colorful coastal views in Cinque Terre or stepping into the storybook streets of San Marino, these day trips show just how much beauty lies beyond Florence.
Each place has its own magic — and honestly, both are more than worth the extra miles.
Until next time, be mesmerized! 🧡