Private car transfer from Monterosso al Mare to Florence

Tuscany is renowned for its centuries-old winemaking traditions and world-famous wines. Stock your shelves with bottles of Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano right from the source. Stop by Pisa and have a glass of wine by the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, or one of Pisa’s many other UNESCO World Heritage sites.

If wine isn’t your style, there’s no better way to enjoy a classic Italian coffee than on one of the many cobblestoned patios in towns like Lucca or Porto Venere. While you’re at it, pick up some homemade olive oil for a taste of Italy once you’ve returned home. We hope you brought an extra suitcase!

Having a private driver will mean being able to go to all the little sites you’d like to see instead of being beholden to a train or bus schedule. Arriving in Florence will be a breeze thanks to Daytrip’s door-to-door luggage and transport service. You’ll be able to start sight-seeing right away!

Florence through the centuries

The history of Florence dates back to ancient times when it was established by the Romans as a settlement called "Florentia" in 59 BC. Over the centuries, Florence flourished as a center of commerce, banking, and textile manufacturing. These industries helped it to become one of the wealthiest cities in Europe during the Middle Ages. During this time, Florence experienced a cultural and intellectual renaissance marked by significant advancements in art, literature, science, and philosophy.

Florence has left its mark on European history. In the 15th century, Florence reached its pinnacle under the rule of the powerful Medici family, who were patrons of the arts and played a pivotal role in fostering the Renaissance movement. You can see evidence of their rule all over Florence to this day. Artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli thrived in Florence during this period, leaving behind a legacy of masterpieces that still adorn the city's museums, churches, and palaces.

Florence today

Today, Florence remains a mecca for art enthusiasts and history buffs seeking to immerse themselves in the splendor of the Renaissance era. As you make your way around the city, you’ll recognize the iconic paintings, sculptures, and landmarks. Like many Italian cities, tourists outnumber locals for about six months every spring and summer.

Although Florence has a particular spot in history, it is still very much a modern metropolis. Almost 700,000 people call Florence home year-round, and many artisan industries thrive here. Manufacturing furniture, leather goods, glassware, jewelry, and other forms of functional art are a major part of Florence’s economy (behind tourism, of course!). Make sure to pick up some hand-crafted souvenirs while on your trip!

Monterosso al Mare may go by its nickname: Monterosso

You will often see Monterosso al Mare shortened to simply “Monterosso,” so don’t be alarmed if you see its shorter name on train tickets or maps. This is common practice for longer town names, but it’s wise to double-check anyway!

Respect the dress codes when visiting religious sites

You may have spent most of your time in Monterosso in a bathing suit, but in Florence, make sure you pack a more modest outfit. When visiting churches and religious sites in Florence, such as the Duomo and Basilica di Santa Croce, be mindful of the dress codes.

Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing, and ensure your shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect. Pick a cool linen or other breathable material if you are traveling in the summer so that you stay comfortable.

Purchase entrance tickets in advance

For popular attractions like the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery (home to Michelangelo's David), and the Duomo complex, definitely purchase tickets online in advance to save time waiting in line. Some places even require a pre-ordered ticket, so do your research ahead of your trip to ensure that all the places on your itinerary get a check mark by them!

Visit Florence’s major attractions early or late in the day

To avoid crowds at popular attractions, schedule your tickets for early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This can help you enjoy a more leisurely experience and avoid long queues. The hottest part of the day is a great time to have your afternoon rest (in Italian, it is called the riposo) before heading back into the city for the second half of your sightseeing.

From Monterosso al Mare to Florence with Daytrip

Traveling from Monterosso to Florence with a private car offers you the flexibility and convenience to explore the scenic countryside at your own speed. Without any stops, expect the drive to take 2.5 hours. However, you should definitely take advantage of the flexibility of having a driver and book some stops on your way to Florence. The drive is short enough that you can make a few stops during the day to places like Pisa or Lucca and still arrive in Florence by nightfall.

One popular stop along the coast is Portovenere. This fishing village has buildings from as far back as the 5th century and dramatic views of the sea from its cliffs along the shore. Or, if you still need to unwind, come relax at one of the many spas in the spa town of Montecatini Alto. Book your session with the thermal spa of your choice, and your Daytrip driver will get you exactly where you need to go!

Daytrip drivers help with your luggage and get you door-to-door on your journey. It is definitely the transportation option of choice if you value flexibility and getting the most out of your travel day. You can book your seat for approximately €600.

From Monterosso al Mare to Florence by train

Monterosso al Mare is part of the Cinque Terre region, and the closest train station is the Monterosso train station. It is also the largest train station of all the Cinque Terre towns. From there, visitors can take a regional train to Pisa and then change trains to Florence's main train station, Santa Maria Novella (SMN).

The journey can take between 2 and a half and 4 hours, and prices start at €22 for standard seating. Trains from Monterosso to Florence run frequently throughout the day, offering travelers flexibility in their schedules, but they do book up quickly during summer.

From Monterosso al Mare to Florence by bus

Traveling from Monterosso al Mare to Florence by bus is also possible, although it's less common than taking the train. The journey by bus takes between 2 and 3 hours if you choose a direct bus. Prices start from about €15, but they go up once you add luggage or are trying to travel during a peak time. Of course, check the bus schedules and connections in advance to ensure a smooth journey.

Florence’s Piazza della Signoria

Any trip to Florence should start in the main square, which is surrounded by impressive statues and historic buildings, including the Palazzo Vecchio (which doubles as town hall!), Palazzo Gondi, and the Fontana del Nettuno. Here, you will find that the rest of the old town radiates outwards in all directions.

Art Galleries galore in Florence

Florence really is the center of Renaissance art and culture. Even if you only end up going to one gallery, you’ll find a mix of all the top names when it comes to Italian sculptors and painters. Here are just a few of the major museums and artists:

At Uffizi Gallery, see masterpieces by artists like Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. At Accademia Gallery, admire Michelangelo's famous sculpture, David, along with other works of Renaissance art. Bargello Museum is located in a former palace and has works by Michelangelo and Donatello, among others. The Palatine Gallery has the collections of the Medici dynasty on display and is just a glimpse of the levels of wealth found by some families in this region.

Palazzo Pitti

Take a stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio bridge spanning the Arno River, known for its shops and striking architecture. Once across, go to the Palazzo Pitti, which sits across the river from most of Florence’s old town but is worth the trip. Wander through the grand rooms and extensive art collections of this Renaissance palace, once home to the powerful Medici family, and enjoy the scenic Boboli Gardens. These beautifully landscaped gardens are behind the Pitti Palace and are a good spot if you want panoramic views of Florence and an escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Florence’s Catholic landmarks

The Duomo di Firenze, or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is one of Florence's most iconic landmarks. This cathedral has a distinctive dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi.

San Miniato al Monte is another Catholic church located atop a hill overlooking Florence, known for its stunning marble facade, ornate interior designs and peaceful atmosphere.

Purchase souvenirs in the markets

Mercato Centrale and San Lorenzo Market are bustling markets where you can shop for leather goods, souvenirs, and fresh food. Soak up the lively atmosphere and make sure you have space in your luggage for all your finds (and enough cash!)

If you visit in the autumn, try to come around September 7th for the Festa della Rificolona, a traditional folk festival dating back to the 12th century. Participants carry colorful paper lanterns through the streets of Florence with a parade and festivities in Piazza Santissima Annunziata.

If you choose to come to Florence during the holiday season, you will see the city lit up for the Green Line Festival. City landmarks have spectacular light installations and projections with fun colors and designs. Like most other European cities, there will be Christmas markets on the streets as well.