I will be spending a 9 days in Italy (3/11-3/20) mostly staying with a friend in Florence, but will need to spend at least the last night in Milan b/c I fly out early in the AM. I would like to visit one or two other cities for very short trips not too far from Florence/Milan since my friend does not have a car. I'm on a budget. Any suggestions about places to stay, eat, or visit, including "must-sees" in Florence or Milan?

I have heard that you can take the number 7 bus to Fiesole which is beautiful.
A day in Siena is suppose to be nice too.
Breaking the bank for one is different than breaking the bank for another.

Hi rk,

You might find my trip report helpful.

We took daytrips to Bologna, Lucca and Siena.

OOOOPS,

Here's the link.

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34451044

Don't forget Pisa! The whole Campo di Mirocoli is breathtaking, not just the tower. And it's a very pleasant univeristy city with the Arno running through it - ideal for just walking around and picnicing. Just about 1hr 30mins from Florence by train.