Florence Italy Video
Weekend Getaways: Short Trips from Florence Italy
Florence, Italy is a city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. While exploring the city itself can be a rewarding experience, taking a short trip outside of Florence allows visitors to discover even more of the beauty that Tuscany has to offer. Here are ten incredible weekend getaways that are easily accessible from Florence.
1. Fiesole
- Piazza Mino: Enjoy breathtaking views of Florence from this beautiful square.
- Teatro Romano: Explore the remains of an ancient Roman theater.
- Villa Medici: Visit a beautiful Renaissance villa and its gardens.
Fiesole is a small town located just a few kilometers northeast of Florence. It offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, with its charming streets, historic buildings, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. One must-visit spot in Fiesole is Piazza Mino, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Florence and the Arno Valley. The square is also home to the Romanesque-style Fiesole Cathedral.
Another highlight of Fiesole is the Teatro Romano, an ancient Roman theater that dates back to the 1st century BC. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and imagine what it would have been like to watch performances in this historic venue. The theater is still used today for concerts and events during the summer months.
Villa Medici is a stunning Renaissance villa located in Fiesole. The villa was built in the 15th century and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and terraces. Visitors can take a guided tour of the villa to admire its impressive architecture and learn about its history. The gardens offer a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
2. San Gimignano
- Towers of San Gimignano: Marvel at the famous medieval towers.
- Piazza della Cisterna: Relax in the main square.
- San Gimignano 1300: Experience the town as it was in the 14th century.
San Gimignano is a picturesque medieval town located in the heart of Tuscany. It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, particularly its iconic towers. At its peak, San Gimignano had 72 towers, but only 14 remain today. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets and admire the towers that dominate the skyline.
Piazza della Cisterna is the main square of San Gimignano and is a great place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of the town. The square is surrounded by medieval buildings and features a well in the center. Visitors can enjoy a gelato from one of the nearby gelaterias while sitting on the steps and people-watching.
For a unique experience, visitors can visit San Gimignano 1300, a museum that recreates the town as it was in the 14th century. The museum features detailed scale models of the town’s buildings, allowing visitors to see what San Gimignano looked like during its medieval heyday. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history.
3. Siena
- Piazza del Campo: Explore the heart of Siena.
- Siena Cathedral: Admire the stunning Duomo.
- Palazzo Salimbeni: Discover the history of Siena’s oldest bank.
Piazza del Campo is the main square of Siena and is considered one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Europe. The square is famous for its unique shell shape and is home to the Palazzo Pubblico, a stunning Gothic-style town hall. Visitors can climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views of the city.
Siena Cathedral, also known as the Duomo, is a magnificent Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 13th century. Its exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, while the interior houses beautiful frescoes and the famous Piccolomini Library. Visitors can also climb to the top of the cathedral for a breathtaking view of Siena.
Palazzo Salimbeni is a historic building in Siena that was once the headquarters of Monte dei Paschi di Siena, the oldest bank in the world. Visitors can take guided tours of the building to learn about its history and admire its beautiful architecture. The palace also houses a small museum dedicated to the bank’s history.
4. Lucca
- City Walls: Take a walk or bike ride on the ancient city walls.
- Piazza dell’Anfiteatro: Visit a square built on the ruins of a Roman amphitheater.
- Duomo di San Martino: Admire the beautiful cathedral.
Lucca is a charming city surrounded by well-preserved Renaissance-era walls. The walls offer a unique opportunity to take a leisurely stroll or bike ride around the city while enjoying panoramic views of Lucca and its historic center. There are several access points to the walls, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is a vibrant square in the heart of Lucca that was built on the site of an ancient Roman amphitheater. The square is lined with colorful buildings and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal at one of the outdoor cafes or browse the shops.
Duomo di San Martino is the main cathedral of Lucca and is known for its impressive marble facade and intricate sculptures. Inside, visitors can admire the stunning artworks and frescoes, as well as climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the city. The cathedral also houses the famous Volto Santo, a wooden crucifix believed to be miraculous.
5. Cinque Terre
- Monterosso al Mare: Relax on the sandy beaches.
- Vernazza: Explore the charming streets and harbor.
- Manarola: Hike the famous Via dell’Amore.
Cinque Terre is a collection of five colorful fishing villages perched on the rugged coastline of the Italian Riviera. One of the villages, Monterosso al Mare, is known for its beautiful sandy beaches. Visitors can spend a relaxing day sunbathing, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Vernazza is another enchanting village in Cinque Terre that is worth a visit. Its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and picturesque harbor make it a photographer’s dream. Visitors can wander through the village, browse the local shops, and enjoy a delicious seafood meal at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Manarola is famous for its stunning views and the Via dell’Amore, a scenic coastal trail that connects it to Riomaggiore. The trail offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is known for its romantic atmosphere. It’s a must-do activity for nature lovers and those looking for a unique experience in Cinque Terre.
6. Montepulciano
- Piazza Grande: Visit the main square of Montepulciano.
- Cantina Contucci: Experience a wine tasting in an ancient cellar.
- San Biagio Church: Admire the beautiful Renaissance church.
Montepulciano is a medieval hilltop town known for its Renaissance architecture and delicious Vino Nobile wine. The town’s main square, Piazza Grande, is a beautiful square lined with elegant buildings, cafes, and wine shops. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Cantina Contucci is one of the oldest wineries in Montepulciano and offers guided tours and tastings of its award-winning wines. Visitors can explore the ancient cellars, learn about the winemaking process, and sample a variety of wines, including the famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
San Biagio Church is a stunning Renaissance church located just outside of Montepulciano. Its impressive facade, designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder, is considered one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Tuscany. Visitors can explore the church and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding vineyards.
7. Pisa
- Leaning Tower of Pisa: Take a photo with the iconic tower.
- Pisa University Botanical Garden: Stroll through a beautiful garden.
- Palazzo Blu: Explore an art museum in a historic palace.
Pisa is famous for its Leaning Tower, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Visitors can climb the tower for a unique perspective and enjoy panoramic views of Pisa. The surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli is also home to other impressive buildings, including the Cathedral and the Baptistery.
Pisa University Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis located near the Leaning Tower. It is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe and is home to a wide variety of plant species. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden, admire the beautiful flowers and plants, and relax in the tranquil atmosphere.
Palazzo Blu is an art museum housed in a historic palace in Pisa. The museum hosts temporary exhibitions featuring works of art from various periods and styles. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, attend special events and lectures, and learn more about the art and culture of Pisa.
8. Chianti Wine Region
- Wine Tasting: Indulge in world-class Chianti wines.
- Gaiole in Chianti: Visit a charming village in the heart of Chianti.
- Castello di Brolio: Discover a historic castle and vineyard.
The Chianti wine region is located between Florence and Siena and is known for producing some of Italy’s finest wines. Visitors can take wine tours and tastings at the many wineries in the area, learning about the winemaking process and sampling a variety of Chianti wines, including the renowned Chianti Classico.
Gaiole in Chianti is a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Chianti wine region. It offers a peaceful escape from the tourist crowds and is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Visitors can explore the village’s narrow streets, visit the local shops and restaurants, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Castello di Brolio is a medieval castle located in the Chianti wine region. The castle is surrounded by vineyards and offers guided tours that take visitors through its rich history and stunning architecture. Wine lovers can also sample the estate’s wines and enjoy breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside.
9. Arezzo
- Piazza Grande: Experience the heart of Arezzo.
- Arezzo Cathedral: Admire the stunning Duomo.
- Church of San Francesco:
Piazza Grande is the main square of Arezzo and is known for its beautiful medieval architecture. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the impressive Vasari Loggia. It is also the location of the famous Giostra del Saracino, a medieval jousting tournament that takes place twice a year.
Arezzo Cathedral, also known as the Duomo, is a magnificent Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 13th century. Its facade is adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings, while the interior houses beautiful artworks and frescoes. Visitors can also climb the bell tower for panoramic views of Arezzo.
