We will be in Italy in the fall and several days will be spent in Florence. We would like to do a day trip one of those days and I'm seeking some advise. We have already been to Sienna and Arezzo so we're looking for somewhere else that would be an easy drive(or train ride). <BR>My first thought was San Gimignano but I've read alot of negative things about it and am looking for alternatives. <BR>Thanks!

I can highly recommend Lucca. I spent 4 days there, but it would make a splendid day trip from Florence. It's a much smaller town surrounded by walls that you can walk around (2 hours leisurely pace), a museum and a couple of very interesting churches, particularly San Michele in Foro and San Martino (housing the della Quercia "Illaria" and Volto Santo. San Frediano is also quite interesting with a Della Robia annunciation and the uncorrupted body of St. Zita in a case!!! San Martino and San Frediano both have glorious facades, the former being marble relief Biblical scenes, the latter having a C13th mosaic. The town also has a 'square' in the shape of the ancient amphitheatre that has some very nice, reasonably priced cafes for lunch or dinner. If you are lucky enough to be there on about the second Sunday in October you will witness a mediaeval festival, with locals dressed up as knights and ladies and musicians. There was jousting in front of San Michele in Foro. Torre Guinigi, in the centre of Lucca, has fabulous views towards the Apuan Alps and the Garfegnana to the north, as well as terracotta rooftops galore, bell towers and rooftop gardens. There is a tree on the top of the tower(!) and seats. As you can see, a lot to see in Lucca and it's only about 40 mins. by train from Florence (note - the station indicator may not say Lucca is a stop for the train, but I was told that all trains going to Viareggio stopped at Lucca, and ours did).

Hi Steve, <BR> <BR>Orvieto would be a good day trip. It's about an hour by train from Florence <BR> <BR>Mary

I would recommend Montepulciano, or Cortona. Cortona is possibly the most interesting small town I've seen. We spent two nights there and we really loved it. Lucca (as someone else recommended) is great, but it's also on the large side - similar 'feel' to Sienna. Cortona is more of a tiny village. However, Cortona is most fun at night - when all the locals are out in the square, chatting away.

Try out www.accidentaltourist.com--they do a great day trip into the Florentine Hills area of Chianti--you can take a cooking class, bike or walk. Also look at www.livingguidebook.com for some great Florence information.

Hello Steve, <BR> <BR>My choice would be Assisi. One of the most delightful towns in Italy! There's enough to fill a whole day there, - but you could also combine it with Cortona, which is also lovely. <BR> <BR>Steve