Best Day Trips from Florence in March
Written by Our Hidden Earth Editorial Team
Last updated 23 October 2026
Summary: Florence serves as a versatile base for exploring the heart of Tuscany in March, offering easy access to the medieval towers of San Gimignano and the Renaissance architecture of Siena. These day trips balance the city’s urban atmosphere with rural landscapes, providing a mix of cultural exploration and regional seasonal charm.
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Florence in March: at a glance
Regional rail connections make towns like Lucca and Pisa accessible without requiring a rental car.
March offers cooler weather suitable for walking through historic city centres before the height of summer warmth.
Focusing on one region, such as the Chianti hills or the Val d'Orcia, helps minimize travel time on day trips.
Check seasonal operating schedules for smaller museums or rural landmarks, as some sites adjust hours during the shoulder season.
Choosing a day trip from Florence in March
March marks a transition in the Tuscan landscape, as the rolling hills begin to shed their winter grey for patches of lively green. For a traveller, this is a pragmatic time to explore.
The main benefit of a March day trip is the absence of the intense heat that defines July and August, making extended walking tours of hilltop towns and historic fortifications far more comfortable. While the weather remains variable and light showers are possible, the crisp air provides a clear backdrop for the region’s expansive views.
When selecting a destination, consider the balance between transit time and time spent on the ground. Florence is exceptionally well-connected by rail, which remains the most reliable way to reach neighbouring cities.
However, reaching the more isolated villages of the southern valleys may require combining train travel with local bus services or opting for a car. In March, it is wise to limit your scope to one or two distinct areas to ensure you spend more time experiencing the location rather than commuting.
A day trip should be viewed as an opportunity to see a different facet of Tuscany—be it medieval urbanism, architectural history, or rural scenery—without the need to pack and move your primary base.
Best day trips from Florence in March
1. Siena
A short train or bus ride takes you to Siena, a city defined by its medieval red-brick architecture and the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. In March, the city is quieter than during its peak summer festivals, allowing you to walk the steep, narrow streets at a steady pace.
Focus your visit on the Duomo, with its intricate marble facade and interior mosaic floors. The city’s historic centre is compact and entirely walkable, making it ideal for a day of exploration.
After climbing the Torre del Mangia for a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, you can sample local panforte in one of the many cafes near the main square.
2. Lucca
Lucca is a favoured destination for those seeking a slower pace. The city is famous for its remarkably intact Renaissance walls, which have been converted into a wide, tree-lined promenade that circles the entire historic centre. You can easily spend an entire morning walking or cycling the length of these walls.
Inside the city, the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro offers a unique glimpse into the city's Roman origins, shaped by the foundations of an ancient amphitheatre. It is a largely flat, pedestrian-friendly city that feels manageable and relaxed in the cool spring air of March.
3. Pisa
Often visited for its famous leaning tower, Pisa offers much more if you wander beyond the well-trodden Piazza dei Miracoli. In March, the crowds around the cathedral and baptistery are thinner, allowing for easier access to the site's primary monuments.
Beyond the marble-clad square, the banks of the Arno River provide a pleasant setting for an afternoon stroll. You can explore the university district and the smaller, less-visited churches hidden in the city's quieter corners.
The city is very well-connected to Florence by frequent regional trains, making it one of the most accessible day trips for those without a vehicle.
4. San Gimignano
Known for its distinctive skyline of medieval towers, San Gimignano offers a quintessential Tuscan experience. While popular, visiting in March avoids the peak-season congestion, allowing you to appreciate the architectural ambition of the town's historic merchant families.
You can spend the day exploring the various towers and the frescoes inside the Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta. The surrounding countryside is starting to turn lush and green in March, providing a handsome setting for those who enjoy the view from the town’s walls. Access typically involves a train to Poggibonsi followed by a short local bus ride.
5. Arezzo
Arezzo is an excellent choice for art lovers, particularly those interested in the frescoes of Piero della Francesca housed within the Basilica of San Francesco. The city is built on a hill, offering beautiful vistas of the Chiana Valley.
The Piazza Grande, with its dramatic slope and loggias, is the heart of the city’s social life. Because Arezzo sits on the main rail line, it is straightforward to reach from Florence.
It retains a less tourist-oriented feel compared to Siena or Pisa, providing a more authentic glimpse into contemporary Tuscan life, especially during the midweek.
6. Pistoia
Often overlooked in favour of its famous neighbours, Pistoia is a gem for travellers who prefer a more local atmosphere. The city’s main square, Piazza del Duomo, is surrounded by significant medieval structures, including a striking black-and-white marble baptistery.
Pistoia is known for its plant nurseries and local markets, which provide a lively scene even in the cooler month of March. The city is easily reachable by train and offers a compact centre where you can move between Romanesque churches and traditional food markets with ease. It is a particularly good option for a stress-free day trip from Florence.
7. The Chianti Region
Exploring the Chianti area is best suited for those who wish to see the rural heart of the region. While public transport to the smaller villages like Greve in Chianti is possible via bus, having a car allows you to drive the winding roads between hilltop hamlets and olive groves at your own pace.
In March, the vineyards are bare but the landscape is beginning to wake up, making it a beautiful time for a scenic drive. You can spend your day visiting small, family-run wine estates or stopping in local villages for a long, traditional lunch featuring regional specialities like ribollita.
8. Fiesole
For a day trip that requires minimal travel effort, Fiesole is located just above Florence and is easily reached by city bus. Despite its proximity, it offers a completely different environment, with ancient Etruscan ruins and a Roman amphitheatre set against a backdrop of the hills overlooking the city.
You can walk through the archaeological area and then head to the terrace of the main square to enjoy a view back down toward Florence. It is an ideal, low-impact excursion that allows you to experience the hills of Tuscany without the need for a long train or car journey.
Which trip should you choose?
The choice of day trip depends primarily on your interest and how much transit time you are willing to commit. For those who prefer a car-free trip with reliable schedules, the main rail-connected cities of Pisa, Lucca, and Arezzo offer the most flexibility and ease of navigation.
If you are interested in deep history and medieval architecture, Siena or San Gimignano are the standout choices, though they require a bit more planning regarding bus connections. If you prefer a relaxed atmosphere away from the primary tourist circuits, Pistoia and Fiesole are excellent, easily accessible alternatives.
Regardless of your destination, bring a sturdy pair of walking shoes and a waterproof layer, as March weather is notoriously changeable. Layers are your best friend; the morning may be crisp, but the midday sun can be surprisingly warm while you are walking between monuments.
Frequently asked questions
Is it necessary to book train tickets in advance for day trips?
For regional trains connecting Florence to nearby towns like Lucca or Arezzo, you do not need to book in advance. You can purchase tickets at the station machines or through digital platforms shortly before departure. These regional services do not have reserved seating, providing flexibility if your plans change.
How do I handle public transport to smaller villages?
Smaller towns without train stations, such as those in the Chianti region, are typically served by regional buses. You should confirm the bus timetables for your specific day of travel, as schedules can be limited, particularly on Sundays. Tickets are often available at local newsstands or tobacco shops.
Are the main attractions in these towns open in March?
Yes, major museums and cathedrals in cities like Siena and Pisa remain open throughout the year. However, some smaller, privately managed museums or specific garden sites may have reduced hours or limited opening days compared to the summer. It is always wise to verify current hours on official websites before travelling.
Is a rental car better than public transport for these trips?
A car offers more freedom to explore the rural countryside, such as the backroads of the Val d'Orcia or small hamlets in Chianti. However, for visiting major city centres like Siena or Pisa, a car is often a hindrance due to restricted traffic zones and limited parking. Stick to trains for cities and a car for the country.
What should I pack for a March day trip?
Focus on versatile, layered clothing. A lightweight jacket or trench coat is essential for the cooler mornings, and comfortable walking shoes are mandatory for the cobblestone streets common in Tuscan hill towns. A compact umbrella is also a smart addition, as brief spring showers are not uncommon during this month.
Are these towns crowded in March?
March is considered the shoulder season, so while popular cities like Pisa will still have visitors, you will find the crowds significantly thinner than in the summer months. This makes it an ideal time to visit sites that might otherwise be overwhelming, as you can often navigate museums and plazas comfortably.
Can I combine two towns into one day trip?
It is generally better to focus on one town per day to avoid spending most of your time on transit. Combining two destinations is only realistic if they are on the same rail line and are geographically close, such as visiting Pisa and Lucca in a single loop. Otherwise, stay focused to avoid exhaustion.
Is it better to stay in Florence or move my base?
Florence is a perfect base for day trips because of its central location and superior rail connections to the rest of Tuscany. Unless you are specifically planning an extended stay in a rural farmhouse to experience the countryside, you will find it most convenient to return to the city each evening.
Final thoughts
For those basing themselves in Florence, I recommend prioritising Lucca for its walkable walls or Siena for its deep historical atmosphere. These destinations provide a manageable and rewarding glimpse into the Tuscan character while remaining easy to reach, ensuring you spend your March days exploring rather than in transit.
Weather, opening times and transport details in this guide were correct as far as we could check. Always confirm directly before you travel.
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