“We’ll just take a day trip!” Sounds simple, doesn’t it? Perhaps a bit carefree? Even spontaneous, adventurous?

How often have I heard: ”you can just get a train, and go to (fill in the blank) for a day, have lunch and be home in time for dinner!” Ah, yes, it does sound exciting, doesn’t it?

Well, let’s talk about it, shall we? The “idea” vs. the reality…

Personally, one of the many reasons I chose Florence was because of its excellent and convenient location logistically and strategically to most of Italy and, of course, within a short train ride to so many nearby cities and towns. So, YES, I do take day trips and enjoy them!

⇒ Some of the reasons why day tripping is appealing to me:

• I have excellent access to the train station (I can walk in about 30 minutes or take a taxi in about 15).
• Florence’s train station (Santa Maria Novella) has a huge schedule/network of itineraries to all major destinations in Italy, many by high speed train.
• I have so many options for visiting and enjoying more of Italy.
• I don’t have to pack a bag or find an accommodation which saves time and is kind to my budget!

(Note: that I’m only focusing on train travel here although, to a large extent, these tips can be adapted to private transportation.)

⇒ However, that said, although it’s doable, I’m not one to do them “spontaneously” (yet!), I’m too much of a planner! And there are definitely factors that I take into consideration and suggest when planning:

• Estimate your total “travel time” including getting to/from the station, train time, etc. Be generous, i.e., don’t over schedule and try to squeeze in too much – you want to enjoy yourself (you are on vacation!).
• How far is your destination and what is the location/proximity of the train station to the historic center/main sites? In other words, can it be done by foot (and what’s the “terrain” e.g., flat, hilly, etc.)?
• Are there taxis (or other public transportation) if you need them?
• What exactly do you want to do/see/visit once you’re there? Do you have a specific reason (museum, special event/exhibit, festival, etc.) or are you just curious and want to do some casual sightseeing, exploring, etc.?
• What bookings, reservations, tickets will you need? (And if there are specific entry/event times, it’s necessary to plan accordingly.)
• Your stamina – it’s easy to under estimate the actual time you’ll need and to over estimate your energy level!

⇒ Here are some additional Day Tripping Travel TipZ I think you’ll find helpful:

• Write down an outline of your day trip with estimated times for travel, sightseeing, etc.
• How long will it take to get to/from the station (if traveling by train)
• How long will it take for you to get to your destination.
• Research and learn about the city/town/village you will be visiting. (Please don’t wait until you get there and then rely on GPS!)
• Have a game plan but be flexible.
• Again, what do you want to see/do? Sure, it’s okay to arrive and “wing it” but most of the time there are reasons why you want to visit and you want to maximize your time there, don’t you?
• Remember that in most towns, especially smaller ones, shops and churches still close in the afternoon (typically around 1:00 – 4:00pm and many sites have special hours. (Be sure to time your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.)
• If you’re going solo, let someone know your plan and time frame and check in with them.
• Familiarize yourself with city plan/neighborhoods where you will be and if possible get a map. (I love a real, i.e., paper map!)
• Learn basic words and phrases for getting around and asking directions as well as the protocol and jargon of train travel.
• Please don’t rely solely on GPS and put your smartphone away occasionally. Pay attention. Look around!
• Learn how to use useful apps (e.g. Trenitalia, Italo, in Florence AppTaxi).
• Allow time for coffee, lunch, serendipity experiences, finding a toilet and, yes, getting a little lost!
• Travel light but I do suggest bringing a lightweight tote for a bottle of water, maps, and to carry any purchases.
• Start with a nearby destination that’s an hour or less away by train and easily visited in a day. This is an excellent way to learn and become more comfortable and confident.

⇒ Some suggested day trips an hour or less from Florence: Bologna, Lucca, Arezzo, Pisa, and Pistoia.
(Note: I have not included popular towns in the Tuscan countryside since they require using private transfers or other means of public transportation.)

⇒ My Bonus Expert Advice: Hire and meet a local guide! Maximize your time and experience with a local expert. It’s absolutely the best investment that will enrich your visit. (And if you’re looking for a referral, please click here!)

What I so often see in observing travelers (especially Americans) is a lack of preparation for the rigors of travel here in Italy- even for a day trip! Most Americans are not prepared for train travel or for all of the walking and I do mean a LOT more walking on uneven/cobblestone pavement. And there will be standing on concrete/tile floors for long hours (e.g., museums, churches, etc.) and LOTS of stairs! (No, there isn’t always an elevator much less one that works!) Comfortable walking shoes and attire are a MUST!

Travel will always confront us with a “new” learning curve! It’s part of the travel experience! There is undoubtedly a degree of stress/anxiety when navigating a new place, probably a new/unfamiliar language, customs and procedures not to mention unforeseen situations (train delays, strikes, change in weather, etc.). It can be frustrating but here in Italy you will find that people are typically helpful and will try to assist you. Everyone is doing their best – be patient, smile, pack your sense of humor, and have a fabulous time!

⇒ Some Other Resources:
Travel TipZ for High Speed Train Travel in Italy
Solo Travel
Day Tripping in Pistoia with Miky! 
My Book! Victoria’s Travel TipZ Italian Style

⇒ Need Italy travel advice? I’m a CLICK away!⇐