A Foodie Train Trip from Florence – Truffles, Wine & Cheese in the Heart of Tuscany

Florence may be a food lover’s dream, but the countryside just beyond it is where Tuscany’s culinary soul truly comes alive. The good news? You can reach many of these gourmet destinations by train, making it the perfect slow travel adventure — no car hire needed.

Whether you're craving pecorino cheese, Chianti wine, or fresh truffles, here’s how to take a tasting trail from Florence by rail.

Pienza

Base: Florence Santa Maria Novella

Start from Florence’s main station. Buy a regional day pass if you plan to hop between towns — or simply book one round-trip depending on where you're headed.

Stop 1: Pienza – The Home of Pecorino (via Chiusi-Chianciano Terme)

Pienza is postcard-perfect — but it’s also famous for its Pecorino cheese. A short train + bus combo brings you to this Renaissance hill town.

What to taste:

• Pecorino stagionato (aged)

• Truffle-infused cheeses

• Local honey pairings

How to get there: Train to Chiusi-Chianciano Terme (~1.5 hrs), then bus to Pienza (~50 mins)

Stay: La Bandita Townhouse – elegant boutique stay with a food focus

Stop 2: Greve in Chianti – Tuscany’s Wine Capital (via Florence + Bus)

Though not on the rail line, Greve is easily reached by bus from Florence. Perfect for a day trip focused on Chianti Classico tastings, vineyard views, and small-town charm.

What to taste:

• Chianti Classico wine

• Wild boar salami

• Local olive oil

How to get there: Bus from Florence (approx. 1 hour, hourly service)

Visit: Enoteca Falorni – a wine library where you can sample 100+ labels

Vineyards near Greve in Chianti

Stop 3: San Miniato – Truffle Country (40 min train)

Halfway between Florence and Pisa, San Miniato is a hidden gem for white truffles, especially in late summer and autumn.

What to taste:

• Truffle pasta

• Truffle risotto

• Truffle gelato (yes, really)

How to get there: Train from Florence to San Miniato-Fucecchio (~40 min), then 10-min taxi or walk into town

Stay: Villa Sonnino – historic country house with truffle-themed dinners

Bonus Stop: Prato – For Dessert Lovers (20 min train)

Prato is known for cantucci (almond biscotti) and a more local vibe.

What to taste:

• Cantucci + vin santo

• Mortadella di Prato

• Carmignano DOCG wines

How to get there:Regional trains from Florence run every 15–20 minutes

Sample Itinerary: 2-Day Foodie Escape

Day 1: Florence → San Miniato (lunch) → Pienza (overnight) Day 2: Morning in Pienza → Greve (afternoon/evening) → Florence

Mix and match depending on your appetite and time!

Tips for Foodies on the Rails

• Call ahead for vineyard visits or truffle tastings — they book out in summer

• Use Trainline EU or Trenitalia app to track train times easily

• Avoid Mondays when many restaurants close

• Bring a cool bag if you plan to bring cheeses back!

Real Travel Guides helps you explore Italy independently, sustainably, and by train