Quick answer
From Florence, Siena is about 75 minutes by express bus or about an hour and a half by train. San Gimignano has no station: on your own, take a train or bus to Poggibonsi and then a bus. To see both in one day, an organised tour or rental car is easiest. Don’t miss Piazza del Campo and the Cathedral in Siena, and the medieval towers of San Gimignano.
Siena and San Gimignano are two medieval gems of Tuscany that can be combined in one full day. Here’s how to plan it from Florence.
How do you get from Florence to Siena?
- By bus: express buses leave from the Santa Maria Novella station area and reach Siena in about 75 minutes, close to the centre.
- By train: about an hour and a half, sometimes with a change; Siena station is outside the centre, linked by escalators and buses.
- By car or tour: best if you also want to see San Gimignano or the Chianti.
What to see in Siena in a few hours?
- Piazza del Campo, the famous shell-shaped square where the Palio is run (2 July and 16 August).
- Torre del Mangia and Palazzo Pubblico, with a climb to the top for a unique view.
- Siena Cathedral, with its inlaid marble floor and the Piccolomini Library.
- The contrade and medieval streets around Banchi di Sopra.
How do you get to San Gimignano?
San Gimignano has no railway station. On your own, take a train or bus to Poggibonsi and then a bus up to the village. A tour or car is much easier, especially if you combine Siena on the same day.
What to see in San Gimignano?
- The medieval towers, the town’s symbol, visible across the valley.
- Piazza della Cisterna and Piazza del Duomo.
- The Collegiata church and its frescoes.
- A glass of Vernaccia di San Gimignano, the local white wine.
Suggested one-day itinerary
- Leave Florence at 8am.
- Morning in San Gimignano, before the tour groups arrive.
- Lunch in the Chianti or in Siena.
- Afternoon in Siena: Piazza del Campo, the Cathedral and a walk through the contrade.
- Back in Florence in the evening.
More ideas: our Chianti wine tour and the day trips from Florence guide. On your departure day you can leave your bags at Luggage Storage Hub, near the station.
Leave for Siena 5 minutes from the station
Check availabilityFAQ
How long does it take from Florence to Siena?
About 75 minutes by express bus or about an hour and a half by train.
Does San Gimignano have a train station?
No, you need to reach Poggibonsi by train or bus and continue by bus to San Gimignano.
Can you see Siena and San Gimignano in one day?
Yes, leaving Florence early; an organised tour or rental car is the most convenient option.