Stopping at a roadside cafe is the perfect way to fuel your adventure through the beating heart of Italy's natural paradise. The stillness in the heavy air will ignite your sense of adventure until Florence's distinctive red tile roofs transform the calming atmosphere into a hotbed of cultural activities.

The style, comfort, and freedom of a private car are the only way to embark on this sophisticated voyage. To discover how to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime venture, continue reading our exclusive Montalcino to Florence travel guide!

In 59 BC, Julius Caesar founded the city on an ex-Celtic tribe site and named it Florentia, meaning "flourishing." But the city's most notable period was during the Renaissance, when world-renowned artists such as Leonardo de Vinci and Michelangelo resided and created many works around the town, altering the cityscape and launching an international phenomenon.

Today, you can still feel the significance of Florence's past. Cobbled streets along the stylish yet narrow lanes and its food scene adhere to strict traditional recipes dating back generations. However, the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is unquestionably the most iconic reminder of its prosperous past.

• Language: Italian
• Currency: Euro
• Climate: Mediterranean
• Time Zone: GMT+1
• Plug Types: C, F, and L
• Peak Tourist Season: July to September

Timing Is Key

Florence is Tuscany's most inhabited city, built for horses and carts. As a result, gridlocks are not uncommon during the day, which can increase the duration of your overall trip. Travel outside 7-9 a.m. and 5-7 p.m. on the weekdays to save time for exploring Florence's endless attractions or if you're catching a flight at Florence Airport.

Don't Forget to Relax

A car journey from Montalcino to Florence isn't your regular trip from A to B. It's one of the most picturesque regions on the planet. So consider a comfortable mode of transport, wear cozy clothing, and bring quality walking shoes if you decide to enjoy the ultimate relaxing experience by visiting the walled village of Monteriggioni.

Train from Montalcino to Florence

The train is the most popular way to travel from Montalcino to Florence. However, no direct services connect the cities.

Since Montalcino doesn't have a train station, you must catch bus line 114 to the nearby city of Buonconvento. Then, you can board the train to Florence S. M. Novella. But first, you must travel to the stunning town of Siena to change trains before continuing to your final destination in Florence.

The journey will take around 3 hours and cost between €16 and €20.

Bus From Montalcino to Florence

A bus is the cheapest way to travel from Montalcino to Florence. It's also the preferred mode of transportation for locals, so it can be crowded during the week.

The bus route follows the same route as the train, except for the change at Siena. You'll take the local bus line 114 to Buonconvento before catching the connecting transfer to Firenze Autostazione. Then, you can reach the city center by foot or the airport with the tram line T2.

Including the transfer time, the journey should last 3 hours and 5 minutes and set you back only €11–€14 for an adult single ticket.

Daytrip From Montalcino to Florence

Since Daytrip is the only direct mode of transportation from Montalcino to Florence, it's the quickest, most comfortable, and easiest way to travel. Your private vehicle will speed through the postcard views of the Tuscany sun-drenched landscape in only 1 hour and 50 minutes and drop you off directly at your new address in Florence.

It's also the most adventurous way to travel. Use that spare time and added freedom to explore cities and landmarks that more tourists overlook. You can roam the charming lanes of Colle Val d'Elsa or admire the UNESCO-protected town of San Gimignano with peace of mind, knowing your luggage is stored safely in the trunk of your chosen car!

• Seats from: €56
• Help with luggage
• English-speaking driver
• Free cancellation 24 hours before departure
• Complimentary bottled water
• 24/7 customer support
• Prepared for pets, kids, or those with limited mobility

Tour the Uffizi Gallery

In a melting pot of cultures, you can't afford to pass on the chance to visit one of the world's most exclusive art museums, the Uffizi Gallery. You can plunge into Renaissance art with a vast collection of masterpieces by artists like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Raphael. But book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines, especially in the summer.

Walk Over Ponte Vecchio

Tower Bridge in London, Brooklyn Bridge in New York, and Charles Bridge in Prague are world-famous landmarks. However, unlike the other bridges, the Ponte Vecchio in Florence offers additional treats like souvenirs and jewelry stores. The lively atmosphere and stunning views of colorful Renaissance buildings in the distance only add to its unique setting.

Spring is considered the best time to travel in Europe. Florence is no exception. The average daily high temperature from March to May is 78°F. You can enjoy a walking tour during the day and world-famous Chianti wine al fresco style in the evening!

There are also several exciting festival events during this period, including Florence Musical May and the Explosion of the Cart over Easter. The pop of color from spring-blooming flowers also adds to the scenic and vibrant atmosphere around town.