Florence is one of the easiest places in Italy to use as a base without a car. From Firenze Santa Maria Novella, frequent local trains radiate out to historic cities, market towns and quietly beautiful places that most visitors never reach. You can reach Florence from Casa Fiordalisi in around 1hr 15 by train from Castiglion Fiorentino — parking is free outside the local station, a 10-minute drive from the house.

Getting to Florence from Casa Fiordalisi

  • Drive10 minutes to Castiglion Fiorentino station
  • Train1hr 15 to Florence Santa Maria Novella
  • ParkingFree at Castiglion Fiorentino station
  • TicketsBuy on Trenitalia app — no reservation needed

1. Pisa — More Than the Leaning Tower

Pisa is often treated as a box-ticking stop, but slow it down and you'll discover a lively university city with a handsome historic centre and a far more local feel than most visitors expect. Journey time from Florence: 50–60 minutes, trains every 30 minutes.

Where to eat: Osteria di Culegna for seafood and traditional Tuscan cooking.

2. Lucca — Calm, Elegant & Made for Wandering

Lucca feels like Tuscany exhaling. Encircled by Renaissance walls now used as a tree-lined promenade, it's one of the most relaxed and rewarding day trips from Florence. Journey time: 1hr 10–1hr 25.

Where to eat: Trattoria Da Leo — a classic for traditional Lucchese dishes.

3. Arezzo — Art, Antiques & Authentic Tuscany

Rich in history and daily life, Arezzo rewards visitors who enjoy places that still feel lived in. Don't miss the Piero della Francesca frescoes. Journey time: 55–65 minutes, very frequent services.

4. Prato — Modern Tuscany & Serious Food

Just 20 minutes from Florence, Prato offers a glimpse of contemporary Tuscany that most visitors never see. Creative, multicultural and deeply food-focused. Journey time: 20–25 minutes, trains run constantly.

5. Pistoia — Tuscany's Best-Kept Secret

Elegant, compact and refreshingly untouristed. Beautiful Romanesque architecture and a strong local food culture. Journey time: 35–40 minutes, trains at least twice an hour.

Where to eat: Osteria La BotteGaia for seasonal Tuscan cooking.

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