Florence is a city that is steeped in history, culture, and breathtaking beauty. But while there is plenty to see and do within the city limits, there are also some incredible day trips that can easily be taken from Florence to explore even more of this stunning region of Italy. Two of the most popular day trips from Florence are to the nearby cities of Pisa and Lucca.
Pisa is world-renowned for its iconic leaning tower, an architectural marvel that attracts tourists from all over the globe. But there is much more to see in Pisa than just the leaning tower. The city is home to a wealth of historic buildings, beautiful squares, and charming streets that are just waiting to be explored. One of the best ways to see Pisa is on foot, as many of the city’s most famous sites are located within walking distance of each other.
One of the must-see attractions in Pisa is the Piazza dei Miracoli, or the Square of Miracles, which is home to the leaning tower, the cathedral, and the baptistry. The cathedral is a stunning example of Pisan Romanesque architecture, with a beautiful facade adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The baptistry, with its distinctive domed roof and ornate interior, is another highlight of the square. And of course, the leaning tower is the star of the show, with its unmistakable tilt that has puzzled and fascinated visitors for centuries.
In addition to the Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa is also home to a number of other interesting sites, including the Piazza dei Cavalieri, a beautiful square that was once the heart of medieval Pisa. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palazzo della Carovana, which now houses the prestigious Scuola Normale Superiore. The church of Santa Maria della Spina is another must-see in Pisa, with its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate facade.
After exploring Pisa, visitors can hop on a train or bus and make their way to the charming town of Lucca. Lucca is a hidden gem of Tuscany, with its well-preserved Renaissance walls, medieval architecture, and lively Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. The town is small enough to explore on foot, and visitors can spend hours wandering the narrow streets, discovering hidden churches, beautiful palaces, and charming piazzas.
One of the highlights of Lucca is the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a unique oval-shaped square that was built on the site of an ancient Roman amphitheater. The square is lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants, making it the perfect spot to relax and soak up the atmosphere of this picturesque town. The Guinigi Tower is another must-see in Lucca, with its impressive brick tower topped with oak trees that offer panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Lucca is also home to a number of beautiful churches, including the Cathedral of San Martino, with its stunning facade and impressive collection of art, including the Volto Santo, a wooden crucifix that is said to have been carved by Nicodemus, who witnessed the crucifixion of Christ. The church of San Michele in Foro is another architectural treasure, with its intricate marble facade and beautiful interior.
After a day of exploring Pisa and Lucca, visitors can return to Florence feeling enriched and inspired by the beauty and history of these two incredible cities. Whether you’re a lover of art, architecture, history, or simply enjoy exploring new places, a day trip from Florence to Pisa and Lucca is sure to be a highlight of your time in Italy. So why not pack your bags, hop on a train, and discover the wonders of Tuscany for yourself?
