Florence is the capital of Tuscany and is literally surrounded by its countryside; you can reach the "heart" of the Tuscan landscape in as little as 15 to 20 minutes. The famous Chianti wine region begins just 30 km (18 miles) south of the city center, reachable in about 35-40 minutes by car. Scenic areas like the Val d'Orcia, known for its rolling hills and cypress trees, are further south, typically a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. In 2026, many travelers use Florence as a "base camp," taking short bus trips to nearby Fiesole (only 5 km away) for panoramic views of the countryside, or renting "Vespas" for a half-day trip into the olive groves and vineyards that essentially border the city's suburban limits.