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How to Experience the Best of Tuscany: 12 Travel Tips for Italy’s Heartland

I love Italy. (Who doesn’t?) And after years of traveling all up and down “The Boot,” one area in particular keeps drawing me back: Tuscany, Italy’s heartland. In this country notorious for its challenging idiosyncrasies, Tuscany is the one place where everything is in perfect, serene harmony. What’s not to love? Amazing art — check. Gregarious locals — check. Epic history — check. Stunning landscapes — check. Incredible food — check. Entertaining cities — check. Gelato — super-check.

Six months ago, as I was plotting out my summer travels, I volunteered to do some guidebook-updating work in Italy: Orvieto, Assisi, and, oh, I don’t know, maybe a few other places… like, say… Tuscany?

Jennifer Madison Davis, the managing editor who keeps our guidebook production schedule humming like a finely tuned machine, eyed me suspiciously. “ Tuscany , eh?” She remembers all too well that the last time I went to Tuscany on a guidebook-updating expedition, I came home with a chapter twice as long as the one I left with…including a nine-page, fresco-by-fresco, self-guided tour of an obscure monastery tucked deep in the Tuscan hills. “Now, why might you want to go to Tuscany?”

I cut to the chase: “Look, I just want to go. I promise that I won’t get carried away. I’ll just update what’s already there. Honest!”

She went for it. And now I’m back in one of my favorite places on earth.

When I’m in the bucolic heart of Tuscany, I have trouble getting to sleep. I’m amped up, like I’m a toy-crazy little kid and every night is Christmas Eve. My head spins with the sublime experiences of the day that just ended, and my pulse quickens thinking about what tomorrow will bring. It’s like I’m on some sort of globetrotting drug…freebasing the essence of peak travel. And when I get home, it all feels like some sort of surreal fever dream. (Or maybe it’s just all the pecorino and truffles.)

Our tour company just announced a brand-new Best of Tuscany Tour for 2020. Impeccably designed by Heather Lawless and other experts and guides in our Tour Operations department, it weaves together 12 days of vivid Tuscan experiences. Comparing notes with Heather as she’s put this tour together, I’m both gratified to see many of my personal favorites on the list…and impressed by how many entirely new-to-me experiences Heather has sniffed out. I’ve led many Rick Steves’ Europe Tours, but I’ve never been on one just for fun. That’s about to change — my wife and I are signing up to be tour members on the Best of Tuscany in 2020.

Why is Tuscany my first choice for a European vacation? I think it’s because it’s so experience-rich. And, after years of visits, I’ve assembled this “best of” list — a running tally of the intensely pleasurable experiences that put Tuscany in travel’s all-time hall of fame. Here my top dozen things to do in Tuscany — whether you’re going with a tour, or on your own.

Bask in Stunning Scenery

One of Tuscany’s calling cards is its mind-bending scenery: Sumptuous, extravagantly green, undulating farm fields that look like a painting. Hillsides grooved with twisty rural roads and lined with pointy cypress trees. Stately churches, humble chapels, rustic farmhouses, and circles of trees perched just so in resplendent tableaus. But it’s not just the landscape. Beauty is in the DNA of Tuscans. One Siena native recently told me that Tuscans consider themselves the inheritors and stewards of a centuries-long legacy of beauty. Every tree that’s planted, every farmhouse that’s restored, every road that’s re-routed — it’s all carefully considered not only on practical or economic merits, but also on aesthetics.

Here’s a list of the best viewpoints in Tuscany — where you can snap postcard-worthy photos of your own. 

Have a “Zero-Kilometer” Meal on a Farm

“Farm-to-table” was a thing in Tuscany centuries before it became trendy among 21st-century American foodies. Tuscans have always been keenly aware that the same produce can taste very different, depending on the specific conditions in which it’s grown — soil, sun exposure, micro-climate, and so on. Many Tuscan farms invite visitors to learn about how they make their wine, olive oil, and prosciutto. You can walk through the vineyards, check out the olive press, and step into the hut where giant ham hocks hang on racks, slowly curing in the dry air. The ultimate farm experience is having a “zero-kilometer” meal — meaning that all of the ingredients are sourced from within less than a kilometer of where they’re eaten. A meal like this is an interplay of earthy flavors, where the taste of each item enhances, and is enhanced by, the taste of every other item. At a zero-kilometer meal, you’re not just eating food. You are, in effect, eating a very specific place .

Read about a zero-kilometer meal you can experience just outside of Montalcino.

Ogle Great Art in a Forgotten Church

During the 1400s and 1500s, the Tuscan art world had a very, very, very deep bench: Michelangelo. Da Vinci. Raphael. Donatello. And many others (Botticelli, Brunelleschi, Giotto, Vasari, Fra Angelico) who don’t share their names with radioactive turtles. But many of my favorite works don’t hang in famous Florence museums; they’re hidden away in off-the-beaten-path towns and overlooked countryside churches. Two examples stick out in my mind: In Arezzo, you can step into the Technicolor apse of the town church to see luscious frescoes by Piero della Francesca. And deep in the Tuscan countryside, at the abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, the cloister is gloriously frescoed with fascinating works by Luca Signorelli and Il Sodoma — offering both a lesson in the life of St. Benedict, and countless examples of two dueling artists whose egos ran amuck 600 years ago. Best of all, because 99 percent of travelers have never heard of these sights, they’re all yours.

Read more about these two overlooked Tuscan masterpieces…and why Il Sodoma may be the quirkiest character in art history. 

Meet a Real-Life Artisan

Because of their deep dedication to beauty, many Tuscans have devoted their lives to mastering a craft — creating something with care and precision, while carrying on a proud aesthetic tradition going back centuries. If you take the time to slow down and seek out these modern-day masters, you’re left with indelible memories: Roberto the alabaster sculptor. Cesare the coppersmith. Adamo the vintner. Giulio the steak maestro. Nicola the gelato artist. (All of these craftspeople — and others — are recommended in our Rick Steves Florence & Tuscany  guidebook ). If you want something done just right, with precision artistry and care…find yourself a Tuscan.

Here are four Tuscan artisans you can get to know in Montepulciano.

Sleep (and Eat) at an Agriturismo

Italy has more than 20,000 agriturismi : farms that are subsidized by the government to introduce travelers to a unique pastoral lifestyle. Agriturismi  are required to be working farms (that is, they must actually produce something) while also offering accommodations, restaurants, educational activities, or all of the above. Settling into an agriturismo , you meet fascinating locals and feel close to the earth. It’s like summer camp for grownups. We recommend our favorites in the  Rick Steves Florence & Tuscany  guidebook , and you can also find a comprehensive list at Agriturismo.it .

Read more about one of our favorite agriturismi : Cretaiole, just outside of Pienza.

Play “King of the Castle” atop a Fortified Tower

Tuscany is crazy about its towers — whether it’s the turreted townhouse of a wealthy local bigwig in San Gimignano, the fancy facade of a humble town hall in  Montepulciano or Volterra, the towering City Hall of Siena, or the famously tipsy bell tower at Pisa’s Field of Miracles . Tuscany’s towers date from a time long before there was an “Italy” — when this area was a loose collection of city-states and wealthy families, all vying for the upper hand. Towers both served a defensive purpose and stood as status symbols for proud communities. That architectural legacy is a boon for today’s travelers, who enjoy climbing to the tops of these towers for views over the rooftops and rolling hills of Tuscany.

Learn more about the roots of Tuscany’s obsession with towers. 

Lick Artisanal Gelato

My favorite gelato artist in Tuscany, Nicola Sgarbi, is a perfectionist…a total gelato snob. He makes several batches fresh every morning, so they’re not even available until mid-day. And then, in the late afternoon, when they’re gone — they’re gone. But if you’re lucky enough to hit his shop when he’s all stocked up, you’ll enjoy his explosively flavorful creations. Nicola goes all-in on seasonal flavors (creamy basil), surprising combinations (carrot-ginger, kiwi-spinach), and top quality. Nicola’s gelaterie — in Pienza and in Montepulciano — are just two of many great places to try top-quality gelato in Tuscany.

Get to know my favorite gelato artist, Nicola. Or study up on how to sniff out the best gelato wherever you go, anywhere in Italy.

Get to Know the Etruscans

Hold on! Stick with me. Don’t let your eyes glaze over. I know — when compared to things like gelato and Michelangelo and pappardelle alla bolognese , it’s hard to get excited about the people who lived in Tuscany 3,000 years ago. But the Etruscans may well be the most fascinating prehistoric people you’ve never even thought about. Not only did their advanced culture lay a foundation for the ancient Romans, and ultimately for all of Western Civilization. Not only did they warn Julius Caesar about the Ides of March and give their name to the region of Tuscany. But, despite all of this, the Etruscans left virtually nothing tangible behind — shrouding their distant civilization in mystery. A few tragically under-visited museums around Tuscany display what does survive, including delicate artwork (like the hauntingly beautiful statue called The Evening Shadow, or L’Ombra della Sera) and evocative funerary urns, showing Etruscans with big personalities lounging at an eternal banquet for the gods. Give the Etruscans a little bit of your touristic attention…and you may just find yourself entranced by the stories they have to tell.

Here are a few of Tuscany’s top Etruscan artifacts, and where to find them.

Sail Away to Elba for an Island Getaway

So much of the traveler’s Tuscany is rolling farm fields, world-class art, stony hill towns, and hearty, meaty cuisine. For a change of pace, consider hopping a ferry for the one-hour crossing to the little isle of Elba. I went there earlier this summer (researching a new chapter for the upcoming 18th edition of our  Rick Steves Florence & Tuscany  guidebook ) and was totally charmed by the place. Elba is synonymous with Napoleon, who was exiled here for 10 months after his bitter defeat. Today, touring his now-shabby residences is poignant. But there’s much more to this rocky little island: pebbly beaches, hardworking harbors, seafood dinners, and a truly terrifying gondola ride. Elba makes for a relaxing island escape from a busy Tuscan itinerary.

If you’re intrigued by the idea of splicing a little Tuscan seaside into your trip, check out my full report on Elba.

Take a Cooking Class

“Tuscan cooking classes” are an entire subgenre of travel. I’ve blogged more about that subject than I have about entire countries. That’s because this region has an outrageously appealing food culture — ranging from big, sloppy plates of pasta to refined high cuisine. And there’s a cooking class for every taste: hand-rolling pasta in a casual, family-friendly setting; going to the private residence of a talented home chef to assemble a seasonal feast; hanging out in the kitchen of a Michelin-star chef ; and everything in between. Also remember to look beyond the kitchen. While not technically a “cooking class,” going on a truffle hunt in a Tuscan forest — chasing after a smart-as-a-whip dog who has the scent of those precious deposits — gives you a whole new appreciation for a plate of truffle pasta.

For inspiration, here’s a rundown of my all-time-favorite Tuscan cooking classes.

Linger on a Convivial Piazza and Join the Passeggiata

Tuscany is all about community. And there’s no better place to commune with the Tuscans than on the piazza, or main square — particularly in the late afternoon, when families are out strolling…doing those aimless laps that they call the passeggiata. Each Tuscan town’s piazza has its own special character: Florence’s is in the shadow of the towering Palazzo Vecchio. Pienza’s is a perfect Renaissance cube. Lucca’s follows the footprint of an old Roman amphitheater. And Siena’s — the best of them all — is a vast, slanted, brick-paved oblong that hosts a twice-yearly horse race. These are places where it’s actually worth paying way too much for a fancy aperitivo for the privilege of just hanging out at an al fresco table and getting serious about people-watching. Then, hop out of your chair and join the informal people parade as it promenades through the traffic-free town center. Become a temporary Tuscan. Come to understand the local saying, il dolce far niente — “the sweetness of doing nothing.”

Looking for the ultimate Tuscan piazza? Check out this “best of” list.

Visit Off-Season — and Have the Place to Yourself

Tuscany — like other popular European destinations — can be extremely crowded. Fortunately, the region remains entertaining off-season, when things are much quieter. One of my all-time favorite trips to Tuscany came in late November . It was chilly but not cold, a crop of winter wheat blanketed the hillsides with a green vibrancy, seasonal ingredients (like chestnuts, persimmons, and truffles) infused each meal with autumnal flavors, and — best of all — we could simply show up spontaneously at museums and restaurants that would have been mobbed a few months before. While off-season travel comes with its downsides (cooler weather, earlier closing times, fewer daylight hours), visiting Tuscany outside of peak season can be a great plan for flexible travelers.

Here’s what to expect in off-season Tuscany.

There’s so much more that I haven’t covered here — cycling around Lucca’s ramparts , taking a dip in the Roman-era hot springs of Bagno Vignoni, doing a tasting of high-end “Super Tuscan” wines at a Florentine enoteca — but hopefully this is enough to stoke your wanderlust for your next trip to Tuscany.

What have I forgotten? What are some of your favorite Tuscan experiences?

This roundup is designed to inspire you to pack your trip with quintessential Tuscan experiences. For all of the details on everything described here, check out our Rick Steves Florence & Tuscany  guidebook .

Or…let someone else do all that planning. My inspiration for this piece is the arrival of our just-announced Best of Tuscany in 12 Days Tour , which weaves together, in some form or another, virtually all of the experiences I’ve described here. I’ve already signed up for one of the 2020 departures — just for fun (no work this time, I promise). Maybe I’ll see you there.

21 Replies to “How to Experience the Best of Tuscany: 12 Travel Tips for Italy’s Heartland”

Cameron, Just wondering if you, Sarah Corfield, or any of the guides (including Rick) have been to ‘Basco della Ragnaia’, just outside the village of San Giovanni D’Asso? It’s an interesting art garden of an eccentric (U.S., I think) artist, open to the public. I thought the village was fun, also.

It’s a great garden. The story behind that garden is very special. We had one of our most memorable lunch up at the castle restaurant in town.

Hi, Rick. Yes, I have been to that lovely garden! It is, as you describe, somewhat eccentric and an enjoyable place for a little walk. In fact, I went there once after a truffle hunt (with the hunter and his dog), simply to learn about the garden. Suddenly the dog got excited, started digging, and discovered a truffle right in the middle of a pathway through the park. San Giovanni d’Asso itself is a nice little town (and very striking from afar, since it perches on a little plateau). Many great truffle-focused eateries there…

My trip was in 2005, Loved it, wish I could live the there, did almost everything you suggested except cooking class, not enough time.

We stayed in an Agriturismo outside of Orvieto and had the most amazing farm to table communal meals there with guests from all over the world. Highly recommend!!

What was the name of the place you stayed? It sounds lovely. Thanks

What was the name of that farm to table? We are looking close to Orvieto!

Touring Tuscany in May 2016 was a dream…I was lucky to have a seasoned traveler to Italy with me……..trying hard to pack in Florence, Cinque Terre, followed by a leisurely week in Lucca ( followed by 5 days in Montepulciano )where we rented a lovely apartment and got to know the local baker and the veg &fruit lady…… we rented bikes and rode the rampart surrounding the town…..but the very best experience was a live concert of Puccini arias in a lovely old church ( since Puccini spent some time in Lucca….the town has claimed him as their own… with concerts one evening a week pretty much throughout the year…..front row….we could most reach out and touch the performers…..breathtakingly beautiful ! 4+ stars !

We attended that same opera while visiting Lucca. Then went on to have one of our most outstanding dinners while in Italy. It was one of our best memories of that trip.

We love Tuscany…have been to Cesare’s workshop where he made a gift for us. We stayed at a marvelous B &B in Montalcino. And a wonderful Agriturismo just outside Assisi….we had a glorious view of Assisi and could easily hear the church bells pealing. As an added bonus we were able to throw open our shuttered windows….it was April and the nights were cool…and one of the resident cats hopped through the windows and spent the night in bed with us!

I’m so excited cuz I’m booked on the September departure of the Tuscany tour. Thank you for this new tour and thanks so very, very much for all the wonderful experiences I’ve had with your tours. You have changed my life in such a wonderful way that I can’t even express. Happy Travels!!!

I want to move there! Looking into it…

Hi Steve, your Italy book recommended one of my favourite little towns, “civita di bagnoregio” if someone wants to travel off the beaten path. I found it a magical place to visit.

My wife, Sandy, and I have been to Italy several times and Tuscany is our favorite. Our last visit was in April, 2017 and we stayed two weeks in a condo located in the serene countryside near Assisi. We rented a little Fiat 500 and enjoyed day trips from our home base, buzzing along the narrow country roads throughout Tuscany and Umbria. We chose one destination per day, soaking in the scenery and ambience of each, visiting farmers markets and vineyards, and enjoying an inexpensive lunch (usually per Rick’s recommendations). Of course, we always indulged in a mid-afternoon gelato, too! During each day’s jaunt, we loved speaking with the locals in our limited Italian and they seemed to love (and get a kick out of) our attempts to do so! We usually returned late to our little condo and I cooked up the fresh veggies and pasta that we purchased for a few Euros along our journey, enjoying it with a little Tuscan vino and fragrant bread. Over dinner, we discussed our plans for the next day’s adventure. This was our favorite visit to Italy and our takeaways were: 1) spend a couple of weeks in one homebase location (if possible); 2) rent a vehicle for sightseeing in Tuscany; 3) Learn a little Italian and speak to the people you meet; 4) Try doing some of your own cooking with the amazing, fresh Tuscan produce; 5) Enjoy a daily glass of Tuscan wine and, of course, a gelato!

My wife and I have been to Siena three times, but the most memorable visit included two days before and after the New Year, especially because of the magnificent 360-degree video projection in the palazzo leading up to the New Year countdown. As fate–and the surprising Italian planning would have it–the video was completely Beatles themed, if I recall correctly. Everyone in attendance sang along to the group’s many hits and without a hint of an Italian accent. The thing that made the night most memorable, however, was that in the two or three hours before the celebration, a steady rain had been falling and we had waffled on whether to go to the party. We’ve always been glad that we decided to go. However, I’m still upset with the local guy who kissed my wife at the stroke of midnight before I did. (I just checked my records, and the end of this year will mark the tenth anniversary of that visit.)

PS: We don’t go to Europe without a Rick Steves’ book to guide us.

We have been to Cretaiole several times and it is our favorite place on earth. Isabella taught us to make pici. One visit was at Halloween, a fabulous time of year to go! The harvests and cooler air, the scent of roast chestnuts in Pienza, the warm uncrowded waters of Saturnia were unforgettable.

Tuscany and the Cinque Terre are our favorites. One night in Vernazza, we sat on the cliffs with a view of the full moon over the Mediterranean! And fireflies (none where we live) just added to the magic.

Ugh, five weeks from today I was heading to Italy to start the new Tuscany tour. Oh well. Hope to do it in the future!

Looking for recommendations for moving about Tuscany in Oct 2021. We are a group of 6 and we would like to spend 2-3 nights in area as we move from Cinque Terre to Florence. We think we’d like a driver/ vehicle so we could travel about together. To rent our own van doesn’t make sense. Also favorite lodging is appreciated.

Hello Cameron, Thank you for this delightful article. We all know how 2020 turned out but thankfully there is 2022 coming up and we signed up for this tour. I’ll be scouring more through the links you posted so we can maximize our time in Tuscany next year. Can’t wait!

Thank you Cameron..love all the information. Our 7th Rick Steves tour coming up! We just signed up for Best of Tuscany in May, 2022. We’ve been on the wait list..got in..so excited..celebrating my 71st B’day!

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17 Useful Things to Know Before Coming to Tuscany (& Italy)

Preparing for your first visit to Tuscany and Italy? We've compiled a list of essential things you should both know before coming as well as keep in mind while in Italy. These are some of the things I remember catching my notice from my first time in Italy and that I've grown used to, but that I realize are still particular to Italy at times that will help you mentally prepare before your trip.

In no particular order (read all the way to the end), here we go!

1. Forget all you think you know about Italian food

Italian food is very regional, so don't expect to find cannoli everywhere (they are a speciality from Sicily so make sure to eat lots when you go there!) or fettucini Alfredo , which many say is an Italian-American invention. You can find pasta with cream sauce in some areas, just not called by that name.

If you ask for peperoni on your pizza, you'll get sliced bell peppers, sometimes roasted, sometimes pickled (that's what they are called in Italian)! The closest equivalent of American peperoni on pizza is called " salamino piccante " and is spicier and smaller in size than what you're used to. I love it on my pizza so recommend you go ahead and try it and see what you think of it.

As far as salads go, don't expect a variety of salad dressings, you'll just find oil and balsamic vinegar (and salt and pepper) to dress up those greens.

You'll find Italian staples from bruschetta with fresh tomatoes (by the way, it is pronounced with a hard K sound like brus-ke-tta, not a soft -sh- sound like in church), delicious prosciutto on your pizza, delicious creamy spaghetti alla carbonara with pancetta and pasta al ragù (meat sauce, also called bolognese sauce).

You will often find homemade fresh pasta on the menu (go for it!) and pizza can be either high or very low crust (high is Naples-style, while in Florence it is often very thin but you'll find pizzerias advertise their pizza is "Napolitan" to say they make crust thicker). Here's a bit more info on local Tuscan cuisine and another on our favorite pizzeria places in Florence .

2. Love Cheese? You'll love Italy!

Then you'll be in heaven! Italy, just like France, has many delicious cheeses , many fresh or seasoned and many types. Nothing you find back home will compare, so take advantage while you're in Italy.

In Tuscany, make sure you taste lots of PECORINO cheese , made from sheep's milk, which you can find fresh, semi-aged and aged. Each has its own flavor, so taste, taste and taste some more! Especially if you're in Pienza in the Val d'Orcia area, where it is a local specialty. Read more about Tuscan cheeses here; if you're interested in a private cheese & wine tour in the area, take a look at this one or this one (departing from Florence).

3. Love Wine? Tuscany has many, many options!

Same goes for wine - each region has many wine regions and its own specialties, so take advantage and taste the local wines wherever you are, you will likely discover something new and different you won't find back home!

There are many wine regions within Tuscany alone, so when eating out, don't ask for Chianti Classico everywhere you go. I suggest you ask for what's local in whatever area you are, so that you can try other reds (and whites) from Tuscany that you might never have tried otherwise.

Think of the Montepulciano Wino Nobile , the Brunello from Montalcino , the Morellino di Scansano in Maremma, the Vernaccia from San Gimignano , to name a few other Tuscan wine areas! There are many more!!

4. Choose Gelato wisely

You might think what can be wrong with gelato, but there really is good gelato and crappy gelato as well. You will be able to taste the difference once you have many - so we highly recommend including lots of gelato tasting while in Italy!

To avoid getting not so great gelato from the start, one simple thing to do from the start is to stay away from the shops with literally a mountain top of gelato. While there are many gelaterias, especially is smaller towns, who still have gelato on display, the ones in the center of Florence that cater to hundreds of tourists a day work on quantity, not on quality. Instead look for shops that say "gelato artigiano/artigianale", which means they make their gelato in the shop, with fresh ingredients. Take a look at our favorite gelato shops in Florence for some suggestions on where to go when in Florence!

5. Summer can get HOT, and air conditioning is not widely used... BUT you might not be need it!

It's important you know this - Italy can be quite hot in the summer! Especially as you plan where to go, where to stay and plan the perfect itinerary for every day you're here, it is important to take this into account. In summer, carry around water with you at all times and plan to spend the hottest hours indoors, like visiting an art museum or one of the many magnificent churches you find all over Tuscany. These are incredibly cool even with no air conditioning!

I think it is the perfect excuse to eat more gelato , of course! ;-)

In any case, as far as accommodation goes , don't worry! This is the reason why farmhouses sit atop hills . Also, thick walls keep heat out, the vantage point catches any breezes, especially in the evenings. Evenings do cool down which is when you'll be around. So even if there is no A/C at your chosen lodging, you should still be okay, being able to sleep well at night in summer - and likely needing heating in the late fall and winter.

6. Pickpockets do exist - unfortunately!

I am saying this is so that you prepare for the worst, and not fall victim to a dumb crime we could avoid if we pay a little more attention to our surroundings.

Pickpockets keep busy during the high season months , especially at crowded tourist sights and in the larger cities. Think Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa , as we all try to pose for a photo of catching or holding the tower up (it happened to us! :-( ) or in Piazza del Duomo in Florence as you admire the cathedral.

If you use public transportation and get on a full bus with people crowded around you, be extra careful of where your wallet is (for example, keep purse in front of you, zip all the pockets up, move wallet to a front pocket) as they like to get on crowded buses and be right there next to you invading your personal space. You might not notice when they slip a hand in and take it off your person.

Pickpockets look for the distracted tourist, but locals are hit too. Keep your bags zipped up and close to you, not on your back while you're on a bus or do not leave bags on the ground when on a train (they can sneak from below from the seat behind you!). In general, you'll feel pretty safe in Italy and it is safe to visit but look smart and aware of your surroundings so you won't be targeted.

7. Breakfast is small and quick

Most common breakfast for Italians is a brioche or small pastry with coffee . It is also very common to eat standing up at the coffee bar counter instead of sitting down, as some places will charge extra if you sit down.

Note that a BAR in Italy is where you drink coffee, not where you go for alcoholic drinks! This is the reason why you'll see so many "bar" signs everywhere you turn! ;-)

8. Wi-Fi coverage is spotty

While Wi-Fi coverage continues to improve across all of Italy, don't expect it as a given everywhere across the country - and in many areas it is spotty even when it is. If it is particularly important to have where you are staying, make sure to ask about how good of a connection they have. We have traveled to places who say they have Wi-Fi or internet, only to arrive and find it doesn't work. Depends on the regions you find yourself in, and between larger and smaller cities. In general, in Tuscany we have found good coverage in towns and spotty coverage in the countryside. This is true for cellphone carriers as well, if you bring along your phone and plan to use bandwidth to work.

Nowadays, lots of cafés and restaurants offer WiFi, but it is often password-protected to offer it only to clients and not passerbys.

9. Cappuccinos & espressos are everywhere... and cheap!

Average cost for espressos is under 1 euro, cappuccinos under 1.50 euro - but don't expect extra flavorings or fancy drinks such as pumpkin spice lattes! If you want a latte, ask for "un caffe con latte" since just "latte" will get you a glass of milk ;-).

10. Tipping / "Coperto" at restaurants

"Coperto" is service charge for the plate/cutlery used and bread (you'll find the cost for the coperto on the restaurant menu, generally at the bottom of the first page). While coperto is required and included in your bill, tipping isn't included nor added on as on option. If you get great service, feel free to add a few euro to the total or round up on your total bill. In general, there is no set % expected for tips. A tip for service is always welcome, by locals and tourists alike and you decide what you want it to be.

If you sit down at a coffee bar, expect to pay a bit more for your coffee. A tip or coperto is not charged, unless marked as service on your menu (check before sitting down if you're interested in keeping costs down).

11. Public Transportation: Always validate your bus and train tickets

Buying bus or train tickets is not enough, as they are "open-ended" (no date on them) and not for a specific bus or train (valid for all buses or regional trains, for example). So before getting on the train or as soon as you get on the bus, you MUST "validate" the ticket by putting them in the small machines that stamp your ticket with date and time. The tickets above show bus tickets in Florence, the left one without the validation, the right one already validated (ticket price has gone up since this photo was taken to €1,50).

At the train station, look at other travelers as they head for the tracks to see where the machines are. They are generally before you access the train tracks .

On buses they are near the front and back doors . If a ticket controller comes along, on the bus and train, he wants to see that stamp on your ticket ! Otherwise, there won't be any excuses of "not knowing" and you'll be unhappy with the hefty fine you'll receive, often times the fine is requested to be paid on the spot, especially if you're a tourist.

Below is a photo of the ticket validating machines at the train station.

12. The "riposo / pausa pranzo" (lunch break/siesta) still exists

While this is changing in larger cities and with larger shops, which remain open with "orario continuato", smaller towns and small shops still function with a pause in the middle of the day, generally from 1-3.30/4pm. This applies to stores and shops, including clothing boutiques and hair salons, where small shop owners go home, eat with family and take a break before returning back to work. So you cannot do any shopping at these times as the shops are closed !

Shops are allowed to be open only for a limited number of hours per day, so they longer closings at lunch (when other people are working or eating) also mean they stay open longer in the evening , generally until 7.30-8pm. This gives working people the chance to get out of work and be free to go shopping. Nowadays, the pausa pranzo is more of a profitability matter than a need to relax.

Also take note that most shops are open on Saturdays, closed on Sundays and Monday mornings , reopening Monday afternoons after lunch.

13. Plan to eat late at dinner, but make sure you're on time at lunchtime!

Since lunch is always around 1pm (restaurant kitchens start closing up around 2.30-3pm), make sure you are on time for lunch . Otherwise you will be going around looking for a place to eat and only find ready-made panini at bars and such. Which is fine if you wanted something like that, not if you wanted something more substantial at a restaurant.

Dinner is generally around 8pm on average and often goes late, with many restaurants and trattorie open until 11pm-midnight. Most open at around 7pm so you won't be able to eat any earlier... unless you head to the ones aimed at tourists which are open all day. We generally avoid those!

14. "Café culture" is non-existent

If you're used to going into a coffee shop and sitting for hours with a laptop to work (or just web surf), you'll find it difficult to find such spots in Italy - although there are a few, and growing. The local culture for coffee drinking (remember they are called bars) is to generally stand at the counter, drink your small amount of coffee (the cups of coffee known as espresso outside of Italy are tiny!) and then leave.

Consider that going to a bar to drink coffee is a break from work , so you don't go to a coffee shop to work !

There are many elegant coffee shops in the center of Florence, for example, that do have large seating areas that will encourage you to sit and take your time. But again, not necessarily for work purposes. Many of the ones in Piazza della Repubblica in Florence are actually "historical cafes" are date back to the times when they were social meeting places for cultural reasons, where many writers, painters and philosophers hung out to talk and discuss about their thoughts and work. They still didn't "work" there, though, it was for social gathering and while these meetings might have impacted their work, go visit them and consider this as the setting they played in the past.

Smaller towns have small bars that have tables to sit down and take your time, particularly as a social gathering place. But again don't expect to sit and work while there. Wi-fi coverage is spotty, at best, but small bars do not offer this as a service. See above for more details on that point.

15. English spoken everywhere... but a few Italian phrases will go a long way

Italians are an extremely friendly and polite people , but learning a few words in Italian will get you a long way as you travel up and down the Boot. It’s easy too!

• “ Ciao ” can be used for hello and goodbye but it is extremely informal: better to use " buon giorno " (good day) or " buona sera " (good evening) to greet and " arrivederci " to say goodbye.
• “ Grazie ” is used everywhere to say thank you and, if you're mistakenly taken for an Italian, just simply say “ Non capisco ” (I don’t understand) to let them know you are not understanding what else they were saying. You can add "non parlo Italiano" but I believe it is understood by that point.

16. Major travel hubs are Rome, Florence, Bologna and Naples

If you're traveling across Italy, plan your itinerary in a linear fashion. Most trains and buses will head to large hubs on their way elsewhere, so if you don't want to be backtracking , plan the order of your cities as best as you can, including using one as a base from which to do day trips to nearby areas. Take a look at the main rail lines below if you're getting between towns by train.

17. And finally, know that Italy is VAST & Different, no matter its size

You might think Italy looks small on a map and you can travel all around in just 7 days, but it is very different from north to south.

There are 20 regions in Italy and each one has its own specialities even as far as foods and wines go, but most of all, in its traditions. It is amazing how so many things can be the same as well as different.

There is much to explore and see around the country, and each place is packed with things to see (our whole website is just dedicated to just Tuscany for a reason! ;-) ).

So give yourself time to explore and discover each place, even roaming around and getting lost.... maybe slowing down and taking more time at each place, not trying to see everything in just a week!

If your time is limited, consider using an organized tour as a good solution to see the top sights in Italy, as it helps cut time in moving around. Consider this 6 day small group tour which includes Rome, Florence, Pisa and Venice or this 7 day tour which includes Cinque Terre, Florence, Venice and Rome. In any case, if you want to add a visit to the Colosseum in Rome, make sure to book your tickets to the Colosseum ahead of time, as well as your entrance tickets to Pompeii . They save you time by skipping the very long lines! Skipping long lines is always a good thing ;-).

Hope you've found our general tips useful - share any you found useful while traveling in Italy and Tuscany with us!

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Practical information: before you arrive, national holidays in italy, moving around tuscany by car, fines in tuscany, getting to tuscany by air, practical information & fun things to know, top experiences in tuscany.

Author: Lourdes Flores

I'm from California but have called Florence my home for over a decade. I love to explore Italy; it is a lot of fun to try to see everything like I'm seeing it for the first time, keeping you, our readers, always in mind. I enjoy sharing what I know and helping others as they make their travel plans for Tuscany through our Forum . If you have itinerary-related questions, please post them there!

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Our Travel Guides

Experience the best of Tuscany with this regional guide

Apr 7, 2024 • 11 min read

Have the most memorable trip to Tuscany with this comprehensive guide to the best of the region © Gavin Hellier / Stocksy United

Tuscany escapes easy definition. The Apennines – Italy’s mountainous spine – slope into vineyard-covered rolling hills, which in turn fade into the Mediterranean coast. This blend of diverse landscapes is home to the remains of millennia-old Etruscan settlements, isolated hamlets whose stone-built bell towers date back to the Middle Ages, and grand art cities whose heritage is invaluable. 

With sarcasm being the local language, Tuscans may not seem to take such wealth too seriously. Understanding the many different facets of this rich Central Italian region can feel overwhelming. Florence tends to grab most of the attention, but it's worth exploring beyond the Renaissance city to discover more unexpected treasures.

Whether you are planning an art-filled tour of medieval cities, a road trip through the twisting countryside roads of Val d’Orcia, or a multi-day hike along the Via Francigena pilgrim route, here is how to figure it all out.

When should I go to Tuscany?

Late spring to early autumn is when most people visit Tuscany. It’s easy to understand why – days get longer and warmer, the countryside comes to life, outdoor dining opportunities abound, and festivals happen all around. Florence runs its Calcio Storico tournament and the region’s largest music festival, Firenze Rocks ; Siena has its traditional Palio horse race; Pistoia hosts its Blues Festival ; and Cortona its International Photography Festival  (and there’s more).

July and August are peak holiday season. It’s when most Italians go on holiday and temperatures get scorching – days surpassing 35ºC (95ºF) have become the norm at this time of the year. Visiting in the middle of summer (especially in August) means finding beaches clogged and cities empty. Prices are significantly higher in popular destinations and booking accommodation in advance is well advised.

The two shoulder seasons – either between late April and June, or in September and October – typically offer the best compromise between good weather, flows of people, and prices.

Come in spring and you’ll see the countryside in full bloom; visit in autumn to catch the wine harvest – and related events like the Expo del Chianti Classico in September – and truffle fairs such as San Miniato’s White Truffle Exhibition in November.

Tourism slows down during winter, especially after the Christmas holidays. The coast goes into hibernation, and many countryside hotels shut down until spring. Cities offer the chance to visit famous museums without crowds – often at reduced prices, as is the case for the Uffizi in Florence – and deals on accommodation are more easily found.

How much time do I need to visit Tuscany?

With so much to see and do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed in Tuscany. There is no perfect length of stay when it comes to exploring the region – whether you feel drawn to art, food, or the outdoors, you’ll likely leave looking forward to a second trip. 

With walkable cities well-connected by public transport, five days will allow you time to tour Florence’s main sights and then jump on the train for a day trip in Siena , Lucca , or Arezzo . If you’d rather drive yourself, you can explore Val d’Orcia in about three days or plan a week-long road trip starting from Pisa which will take you through the rural towns that dot the hilly interior.

Slow travelers can also walk the path of the Tuscan section of the ancient Via Francigena – the pilgrim route that connected the Canterbury with Rome during the Middle Ages – crossing 38 municipalities over the course of 16 (or more) days.

Basing yourself in Rome?  Here's how to plan a day trip to Tuscany

Is it easy to get in and around Tuscany? 

Tuscany has two international airports, Florence and Pisa. Pisa's Galileo Galilei (PSA) airport is serviced by many low-cost airlines and has twice the passenger traffic of Firenze's Amerigo Vespucci (FLR) airport. The two cities are connected with a direct railway, which takes just over an hour to travel.

If you're not flying in from abroad, it is possible to reach Florence with high-speed trains departing from many major Italian cities, including Rome , Naples , Milan , Bologna  and Venice .

Tuscany's rail network spans across 181 stations, providing an affordable means of exploring the region. You can buy regional train tickets conveniently through trenitalia.com, or at any station. Remember to validate paper tickets purchased at the station before boarding the train.

Trains do not run to many of the smaller towns and while buses are available, the best way of moving around rural areas is by car. Major rental companies, such as Budget, Sixt, Hertz, operate around Tuscany, with the largest offer available in Florence and Pisa.

Link your trip with these other great destinations in Italy

Where are the best places to go in Tuscany?

Tuscany is divided into ten provinces and people are famously proud of the defining characteristics of each. The days of warring city states are long gone, but by speaking to locals you will learn that food, dialects, and traditions can still differ widely from city to city – here is what to expect.

Renowned for its incomparable Renaissance heritage, Florence often feels like an open-air museum. The Tuscan capital is far from large, but its compact historic core packs grandiose cathedrals – such as Santa Maria del Fiore topped by Brunelleschi’s cupola, Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella  – opulent palaces, and some of the region’s best art museums.

The Galleria degli Uffizi , one of Italy’s most visited museums, tends to be high on everyone’s list, but there are plenty more options for art lovers including Michelangelo’s masterpieces in the Cappelle Medicee and the Galleria dell’Accademia , and the Medici’s heritage at Palazzo Pitti and Palazzo Vecchio .

Outside the thick stone walls of its captivating galleries, Florence boasts a cosmopolitan character and a vibrant culinary scene. Roam its markets in San Lorenzo or Santo Spirito , explore crafts and design workshops in the Oltrarno, and then fuel up with a stuffed schiacciata  (Tuscan flatbread) at Forno Becagli or Sapori Toscani. Before dinner, get a negroni then hit one of the city’s many trattorias .

Traveling on a budget? Here are our tips for saving your euros in Florence

The Chianti region

The core of Tuscany’s most famous wine region stretches between Florence and Siena, offering as many tasting opportunities as you can imagine. The Strada Statale 222, better known as Via Chiantigiana, runs through the whole of the Chianti region north to south, twisting among vineyard-covered hills and medieval castles, making for an ideal road trip.

Antinori nel Chianti Classico , on the outskirts of Florence, is perhaps the region’s best-known winery – its futuristic headquarters in were completed in 2012, but the Antinori family has been in the wine business for over six hundred years, since Giovanni di Piero Antinori joined the Arte Fiorentina dei Vinattieri (Florentine Winemakers' Guild) in 1385. Many other wineries are found along the way, including the excellent boutique winery Capanelle and the imposing Castello di Brolio of the Ricasoli winery.

One of Tuscany’s most beautiful squares – Piazza del Campo – marks the center of Siena, Florence’s eternal rival that emerged during the Middle Ages as a progressive city-state where art and architecture flourished. Each year, the semi-circular piazza commonly known as “Il Campo” hosts the Palio, one of the most heartfelt events of the year in which Siena’s neighborhoods compete in a horse race with thousands of people watching.

Siena is worth spending a few days in, but if you are short on time make sure to enter its Duomo – Giovanni and Nicola Pisano, Pinturicchio, Michelangelo, Donatello and Gian Lorenzo Bernini all contributed to making the cathedral an unchallenged masterpiece. Don’t miss the floor, a composition of 56 marble panels forming a mosaic with scenes from the Old Testament, created by various artists between the 14th and the 19th centuries.

Val d’Orcia

The postcard image of Tuscany you have in mind likely comes from Val d’Orcia, the UNESCO-inscribed region where cypress-lined roads lead to dreamy farmhouses surrounded by hay bales that look like they are just about to roll down the hills. Films such as Anthony Minghella’s The English Patient and Ridley Scott’s The Gladiator have used Val d’Orcia as their backdrop and road tripping this region guarantees exceptional views all around.

Many charming towns dot this rural area. The construction of Pienza was commissioned to architect Bernardo Rossellino, a student of Leon Battista Alberti, by Enea Silvio Piccolomini, a humanist born who would become Pope Pius II in 1458, as the “ideal Renaissance city” and still stands as one of the main settlements in the Val d’Orcia. Nearby you can find the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni and the fortress of Montalcino , globally revered for its prized Brunello wine.

The 12m tall walls surrounding Lucca’s historic center, built between 1513 and 1650 and stretching for four kilometers across eleven bastions, are among Europe’s best preserved fortifications and function as the city’s green lung with large parks and tree-lined paths offering great views over Lucca’s heart.

This charming city makes for an ideal day trip from Florence – inside the fortress walls, you’ll find Lucca’s Cattedrale di San Martino , where Gothic and Romanesque elements blend to form the structure housing one of Tuscany’s most precious artifacts, the celebrated Volto Santo (holy face) crucifix, believed to be one of the oldest wooden sculptures in Europe.

In summer the city hosts its Lucca Summer Festival , held in Piazza Napoleone. Over the years, artists such as Elton John, The Scorpions, Green Day, and Sting have played in the city. Another important event is the Lucca Comics & Games , one of Europe’s largest comics festivals held each year in autumn.

Pisa is often reduced to its leaning tower but there is much more to see, both inside and outside the UNESCO-listed Piazza dei Miracoli. In the Middle Ages Pisa was one of Italy’s most powerful maritime republics, and signs of its wealth are still part of this city which is now home of one of Tuscany's most important universities.

The monumental cemetery of Piazza dei Miracoli, established in 1277 to house the remains of the city’s elite, houses one of the city’s most important frescoes, the recently restored Il Trionfo della Morte (The Triumph of Death) by Buonamico Buffalmacco. Beyond Piazza dei Miracoli you find the new Navi di Pisa Museum which traces the history of the city’s relationship with the sea and features parts of over 800 ships excavated in Pisa’s surroundings.

The islands

Distant from the museums and the cathedrals of the region's art cities are the seven islands of the Tuscan archipelago, ideally positioned for a Mediterranean escape after an overload of culture. The islands – Elba, Giglio, Montecristo, Capraia, Pianosa, Giannutri and Gorgona – come to life during summer and it’s worth booking accommodation well in advance if you plan to visit in the high season. Elba is the largest of the seven, offering both great beaches and hiking opportunities along its Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE, Elba’s Great Crossing) trail.

The Apuan Alps

The Parco Naturale delle Alpi Apuane stretches across two areas of northeastern Tuscany that few people take the time to visit, Lunigiana and Garfagnana. The rugged Apuan Alps take their name from their resemblance to the actual Alps, although they are much smaller in size with peaks under 2,000 meters. 

Historically these mountains have been the main source of Carrara marble, extracted since Roman times in the quarries surrounding the city of Carrara. Today, much of the area is a protected nature reserve marked by a vast network of hiking trails. The hamlets of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana and Barga are good spots to start your exploration of the region – either by relaxing around the Lago di Vagli or committing to a multi-day hike along the Via Vandelli, connecting Massa to Modena.

How much money do I need in Tuscany?

Costs in Tuscany can vary widely depending on where and when you go. Prices tend to be inflated in areas that attract large tourism flows like central Florence and Siena and skyrocket along the coast during summer months. Still, it is possible to visit on a budget by relying on public transport and looking for accommodation deals outside peak summer months.

Find out what one visitor spent on a weekend trip to Florence

A guide to daily costs in Tuscany

• Basic double room: €80
• Espresso coffee: €1.20
• Car rental: €65
• A stuffed schiacciata sandwich: €5
• Dinner for two with a bottle of local wine: €70
• Museum ticket: €10€to €20
• Petrol: €1.80/liter
• City parking: €2/hour
• Aperitivo cocktail: €7
• Glass of wine: €5
• Train ticket from Florence to Pisa: €8.90

This article was first published August 2023 and updated April 2024

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25 Terrific Things to Do in Tuscany (+ Travel Guide!)

It is downright impossible to run out of magnificent things to do in Tuscany.

This deservedly popular Italian region has captured our hearts (and the hearts of many generations worth of travelers!) for years, and it’s a place we’ll return to again and again.

From meandering down medieval streets to admiring the way the golden light clings to the hills, and from sipping some of the best wine in the world to soaking in beautiful hot springs, figuring out what to do in Tuscany is less about finding things to do than narrowing down your Tuscany bucket list!

After a cumulative many months spent traveling Tuscany over a period of years, we’ve ticked many, many things off of our personal couples bucket list for the region–and yet, we expect to spend a lifetime continuing to enjoy the beauty and discover the secrets of Tuscany.

Whether you’re planning your first trip to Tuscany or your 50th, this travel guide to the best experiences in Tuscany is for you!

Table of Contents

Ready to Narrow Down Your Tuscany Bucket List?

The best things to do in tuscany, how to get around tuscany.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Odds are, you won’t be able to fit all of the best things to do in Tuscany into one trip–which is all the more reason to dream of coming back one day!

Even with only a few days in Tuscany , though, you can absolutely have a wonderful experience in the region.

Once you’re ready to narrow down your wish list further, we have plenty of additional Tuscany blog posts here on Our Escape Clause to help you out.

We recommend starting with our Tuscany road trip guide , as well as our detailed 2-day Florence itinerary (we also have a 1-day version ), and our guide to the best day trips from Florence .

This guide to hidden gems in Florence is lots of fun, and if you’re looking for the most romantic things to do in Tuscany, this Tuscany honeymoon guide is for you.

Other Tuscan cities featured on Our Escape Clause include Volterra , Siena , Arezzo , and more!

To find other destinations across Italy, Europe, and beyond, use the search bar found in the top-righthand corner of your desktop (or on mobile, as part of the drop-down menu).

Ride a Vespa through the countryside.

We partnered with Walkabout Florence to ride our first-ever Vespa: Jeremy did the bulk of the driving, and I was quite happy to ride on the back.

After finishing our day, we easily consider a Vespa ride to be one of the best–and most romantic–things to do in Tuscany.

The weather was perfect the day we set out–around 75 degrees and sunny–and before long, we were leaving our starting point of Florence behind and climbing high into the hills of Tuscany, winding our way past epic views of the city, through tiny towns with stone houses, and among vineyards.

Our tour included 3 fantastic stops–one at a beautiful church with panoramic views of Florence, one at a vineyard to admire the views, and one for lunch (including wine, of course) at a picturesque Tuscan farmhouse.

While all three were memorable and beautiful in their own right, it was hard to top the romance of riding a Vespa together through the beautiful countryside.

Book your Vespa tour of Tuscany today!

Take a food tour (or six).

As one of the best foodie destinations in the world, no bucket list for Tuscany would be complete without mentioning a food tour!

Indulge in the best of what Tuscany has to offer, learn your way around the food scene, and get prepared for an entire trip worth of delicious food.

We always recommend taking a food tour toward the beginning of your Tuscany trip, rather than the end–that way you’ll have a list of favorite dishes to order for the rest of your time in the region!

Several years after first writing this blog post, I can say that we’ve now taken several Tuscany food tours throughout our trips there, and this Dine Around Florence tour remains not only one of our favorite food tours in Italy, but one of our favorite food tours that we’ve taken in the world!

Book your food tour through Florence’s more offbeat Oltranto area today!

Enjoy the views from Tuscany’s hilltop towns.

Whether you’re visiting Volterra, San Gimignano, Siena, or beyond, staring out over the views of the rolling Tuscan countryside (perhaps with a nice lunch and a glass of wine?) is easily among the best things to do in Tuscany.

Want to enjoy a particularly relaxing view of the Tuscan countryside?

Consider staying in an agriturismo–a Tuscan farmhouse turned bed-and-breakfast of sorts–for part of your stay!

Indulge in some beach time.

Tuscany’s wine country, olive groves, food scene, hilltop towns, and famous cities like Florence tend to get all the press (and it’s not hard to see why–they’re amazing!), so it can sometimes be hard to remember that Tuscany is home to its own sizable stretch of Mediterranean coastline–and even some islands!

The island of Elba is a great place to chill out on a Tuscan beach, go sailing or scuba diving, eat delicious seafood, and learn a bit of history.

Elba is also the island that Napoleon was originally exiled to (though he did escape back to France about 300 days later).

Take a road trip through the Val d’Orcia.

There are tons of amazing places for road trips in Tuscany (read: basically anywhere that isn’t a major city like Florence or a walled old town), but none are quite as impeccable as the Val d’Orcia.

If you’ve seen pictures of Tuscany, you’ve probably seen the Val d’Orcia: it’s the Tuscany of everything from Renaissance paintings to modern photography, and it is the perfect place to hit the open road with your partner.

You might want to consider indulging in a fun Italian car rental for your trip–perhaps a Fiat 500, or for the luxury seekers among us, even a Ferrari–and definitely make sure to read up on driving in Tuscany before you get started.

Don’t forget to visit Montepulciano (one of our personal favorite small towns in Tuscany) while you’re in the area!

Take a dip in the hot springs.

Did you know that Tuscany is home to several natural hot springs–and that many of them are free to visit?

The best known hot spring is Saturnia , and it can be a fantastic way to relax in nature with your loved one, perhaps with a glass of local wine!

There is one decidedly unromantic thing about the hot springs that bears mentioning, though: the sulfur smell is strong!

Bring old bathing suits that you don’t mind getting stinky (and ideally, ones you’re ready to part with when you’re done).

Still worth a visit, though, and definitely something to add to your list when planning an Italy road trip !

Go horseback riding through vineyards in the Tuscan countryside.

The long rows of grapes, the sound of the horses’ feet on the farm, and endless countryside visible in all directions–when it comes to excellent ways to appreciate the beauty of Tuscany’s countryside, it’s hard to beat horseback riding through the vineyards!

We were invited out by Fun in Tuscany to have an incredible day in Tuscany including a wine tasting with a meal, a visit to San Gimignano, and, of course… horseback riding.

Jeremy and I love to go horseback riding together (we’ve ridden together in six countries so far!), and it’s hard to imagine a more romantic place for it than Tuscany.

We started our day with Fun in Tuscany by riding through never-ending vineyards, soaking in the sweeping views and beautiful villas that we passed along the way.

Our group was tiny–just us, one other person, a guide, and an adorable farm dog name Pepe (“pepper” in Italian) who followed along with us whenever he didn’t get distracted and dart into the woods for a moment or two.

It was a very peaceful morning, and our time horseback riding was the perfect start to a fabulous day.

Say hello to the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

I’ll be honest: many travelers, us included, find Pisa, Italy to be a bit of a letdown.

Sure, the tower itself is intricate and beautiful (more than I expected before seeing it for the first time–that aspect of the experience more than lives up to expectations), but the city doesn’t have much to do away from the tower area and the crowds are ridiculously heavy.

But, there’s no denying that it is one of the most iconic Tuscany attractions, so feel free to head out for a couple of adorable photos in front of one of the most famous towers in the world.

To make it worth your time, be sure to arrange to climb to the top of the tower, and if you’re traveling independently, consider combining your visit to Pisa with one to nearby Lucca (more details on that in our guide to day trips from Florence ).

Don’t waste any of your precious time in Tuscany battling the crowds. Book your visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa now!

Explore Florence, the capital of Tuscany.

Florence belongs on any list of the world’s most beautiful cities, and this guide to what to do in Tuscany could easily be overtaken by incredible places to see in Florence alone ( our guide to the best things to do in Florence is where to find those!).

It is absolutely beautiful, home to world-class art, stunning architecture, and some of the world’s best food.

Every other spot in Florence, from the Piazza della Repubblica to the Ponte Vecchio to the Piazzale Michelangelo, looks like the background to an epic proposal (just maybe opt for a very early morning proposal before the crowds arrive).

Of all the best things to do in Tuscany, wandering the back streets of Florence, ducking into shops and churches and piazzas and trattorias, listening to buskers, and admiring the bustle of the city life, is among our favorites.

Take a Tuscan cooking class.

Tuscan wine, delicious food, a new skill, and a great meal: what could be a better Tuscany travel experience than that?

Pizza, pasta, sauce, tiramisu, gelato… there’s a Tuscan cooking class for every taste, though we believe the best ones are those that cover a whole day’s worth of eating!

We’ve taken many cooking classes in Tuscany over the years, ranging from those held with a group in beautiful Tuscan farmhouses to intimate affairs where an instructor came to the villa we were renting with my family, and so far, this one has been our absolute favorite.

Covering all the classic cooking class dishes, from ragu to tiramisu, you’re bound to leave this class both incredibly stuffed and quite possibly a bit tipsy–the wine and snacks flow heavily throughout the day!

Book your cooking class in Tuscany today!

Go truffle hunting.

Among the more unique things to do in Tuscany is truffle hunting: you, a dog, and the forest on a quest to find truffles–what a perfect way to spend an afternoon in Tuscany!

Truffles are not only delicious and expensive but they also can’t be farmed.

They merely grow of their own free will, and you can set off to find them each fall.

And of course, the best way to follow up a truffle hunt is with a romantic truffle-themed meal!

Book an unforgettable truffle hunting experience in Tuscany today!

Indulge in a wine tasting (or three).

Tuscany is all about the wine, and at least once when there, be sure to sit down and enjoy the experience of learning more about Tuscan wines–all while indulging in them, of course!

While you can certainly find plenty of places to go wine tasting in Tuscan towns and cities, there’s nothing quite like the romance of heading out for a wine tasting at a vineyard.

We loved tasting eight different wines at Tenuta Torciano as part of our day spent with Fun in Tuscany –and the meal served with the wine made it even better.

Salami, bread, cheeses, balsamic vinegar, homemade lasagna with truffle sauce, cantucci cookies… I’m getting hungry even remembering it!

Before and after the meal we had a chance to wander around parts of the gorgeous vineyard property, enjoying each other’s company and taking in views of vines and gazebos, and meeting several friendly chickens and one adorable basset hound.

Visit some castles.

Tuscany is dotted with castles dating back to the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and while most of these castles are off the beaten path for most first-time visitors, they’re perfect Tuscan attractions for adding a bit of fairytale magic to a trip.

A few castles to consider adding to your list: Castello di Vincigliata in Fiesole (easily accessible from Florence), Castello Banfi in Montalcino (near Siena), Aghinolfi Castle in Montignoso, and Castello di Vicchiomaggio in Greve (located in the heart of the Chianti wine region).

Enjoy a gelato (or several) in the city that it was invented in.

Did you know that gelato was invented in Florence?

Sure, there are some who dispute the claim–but the Florentines sure don’t!

Regardless, enjoying a delicious gelato in Tuscany with a beautiful view is absolutely a must-have travel experience!

Take a hike in the Apuan Alps.

Mountains and Tuscany may not sound like two things to go together–but they do!

Tuscany is full of outdoor hiking opportunities, and if your idea of a dynamic Tuscan vacation is time spent outdoors, the Apuan Alps are the destination for you.

Climb to the top of the world.

… or at the least the top of a Tuscan tower.

Climbing historic towers and buildings in Tuscany is an incredibly memorable experience, and despite the fact that we’ve climbed plenty of towers in plenty of Tuscan towns, we never get tired of it.

Whether you want to admire the classic view from the top of Florence’s Duomo, head to the top of one of San Gimignano’s famous towers, see what Siena looks like from above, or something else entirely, it’s well worth exchanging burning thighs for beautiful views at least once during your trip!

Indulge in an olive oil tasting.

Oh, olive oil: as one of the most iconic foods in Tuscany, an olive oil tasting belongs right alongside food tours and wine tastings on any list of things to do in Tuscany.

If you’ve never had true Tuscan olive oil before, you’re in for a treat (hint: it tastes nothing like what you get in the grocery store).

The olive oil harvest in Tuscany generally starts in late October or early November and continues into December.

If your trip to Tuscany coincides with the harvest, consider yourself very lucky: olive oil is at its best when it’s served fresh–ideally, the same day it’s pressed!

Explore some canyons.

Tuscany is full of surprises–surprises like Orrido di Botri, the canyon near Lucca that allows you to hike through the river and admire the landscape (during the summer when the water is low, anyway).

Soar above the vineyards in a hot air balloon.

What better way to admire the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside than from above?

Consider splurging on a Tuscany travel experience you’ll never forget, and add riding in a hot air balloon to your list of things to do in Tuscany.

Book your balloon flight over the Tuscan countryside today!

Spend a night (or a week) in a Tuscan villa.

Tuscany’s cities and towns are absolutely divine, but if you’re looking for a little isolation on your trip to Tuscany, consider renting a Tuscan farmhouse!

You can even look for one that’s still on the property of a functioning vineyard or olive farm to create the perfect atmosphere for a Tuscan getaway.

While agriturismos, or Tuscan farmhouses turned bed-and-breakfasts, are perfect for solo travelers or couples looking for Tuscan romance, larger groups can rent entire villas out to enjoy.

Stroll along the medieval walls in Lucca.

Not many places in Tuscany can still claim to be completely surrounded by their defensive walls–but Lucca can!

Since they clearly aren’t needed for defense purposes these days, Lucca’s beautiful walls have been turned into a public park.

While you’re there, be sure to bike or stroll across them, soaking in beautiful views of the city along the way.

Attend the Palio di Siena.

Stand in Siena’s beautiful, oval-shaped Piazza del Campo on an average day, and it’s hard to imagine the thunderous sound of racing hooves and a roaring crowd crammed into such a (relatively speaking) small space, but twice a year, that’s exactly what happens.

Siena’s bi-annual horse races are held on July 2 and August 16 each year–just as they have been since the 17th century!

Additional events are held in the few days leading up to the race, so if you’re going to be in Tuscany during those weeks and don’t get scared off by crowds, make arrangements to see Il Palio in action!

Watch the sunset over Tuscany.

Tuscany is world-renowned for its golden light that clings to the landscape, and it’s never more magical than when the sun sets.

Each night that you’re in Tuscany, be sure to grab a glass of wine, find a peaceful corner, and settle in to admire Tuscany’s best natural show.

Whether you’re watching from the Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence or the porch of a remote Tuscan farmhouse, there’s no doubt that watching the sunset is one of the simplest ways to enjoy the beauty and romance of Tuscany.

Be spontaneous and wander.

Tuscany is the perfect place to be aimless: whether it’s wandering the cobblestone streets of Florence, choosing a random small town on a map and hopping on a train to visit it, or ducking into small churches and out-of-the-way museums because you happen to be passing by, Tuscany is ideal for meandering.

This is the kind of place where the word savor comes to mind.

S avor the views, the food, the wine, the time with your travel companions… nothing can be rushed in Tuscany, and that’s the beauty of it.

Trains continue to be one of our favorite ways to travel around the more connected parts of Tuscany. They’re plentiful, they’re easy to use, they’re affordable, and they are (in our biased opinion) one of the most romantic ways to travel.

For many of these fun things to do in Tuscany, a train is all you need!

Consider basing yourselves in Florence, Siena, or perhaps Lucca to ensure you have plenty of routes and connections to allow you to explore Tuscany to the fullest.

However, as much as we love them, trains and buses will only get you so far.

If you’d like to explore Tuscany off the beaten path or to visit some of the more rural regions–namely some of the hiking, enjoying the hot springs, and visiting the canyon–you’ll want to have a car to get around.

Not a problem, since as listed above, a Tuscan road trip definitely qualifies as one of the best travel experiences in Tuscany!

If you do choose to rent a car, keep in mind that Italy requires you to have an International Driving Permit, which you’ll need to obtain before your trip, to rent a car in the country.

We have many more tips for driving in Tuscany on our Tuscan road trip guide , and if you’re new to driving in Italy, we highly recommend checking it out before getting behind the wheel to explore some of the best things to do in Tuscany!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

22 thoughts on “25 Terrific Things to Do in Tuscany (+ Travel Guide!)”

Tuscany should definitely get more attention than what it gets now. Of all the activities listed by you visiting the small villages appeal the most to me. I think small towns and villages are where the true soul of a country can be experienced.

There’s nothing like small Italian towns! They are definitely something special.

Horseback riding through the Tuscan streets is very romantic! I love Tuscany and it’s great you found a better spot to watch the sunset in Firenze! Who can say no to some Tusacn wine tasting? Not me, that’s for sure!

Haha, us either! Definitely an experience worth having.

Not just Tuscany, whole of Italy is gorgeous, isn’t it? I’m just reminded of the movie ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’!!! I I stayed at hostels both in Florence Town & Pisa… Unfortunately I didn’t get to visit the smaller towns…

Believe it or not, we STILL haven’t seen or read Under the Tuscan Sun. Need to fix that!

Riding a Vespa through the hills of Tuscany really is a dream come true. I can only imagine how much fun you newlyweds (yes, you can still call yourself that!) had together- what a beautiful place to share time together.

It was definitely one of our most memorable moments of the month–having perfect weather for it was the cherry on top!

I was not knowing that Tuscany is so romantic. Strolling along Arno river, typical scooter ride and visiting vineyards looks very dreamy. I went to Florence but missed Tuscan countrysides and now I am regretting after reading your post.

All the more reason to go back! There’s no such thing as too many trips to Florence.

Oh my! Tuscany truly seems to romantic – how I would love to experience riding a vespa through the countryside….and wow watching the sunset over Florence, that’s a proposal waiting to be had! And wine tasting sounds absolutely delectable! Italian wine is amazing, so I am sure visiting the wineries in this region would be such a beautiful experience.

Definitely the perfect place for a proposal! Tuscany is one of the most romantic places we’ve ever been for sure.

Ah, Tuscany! Such a romantic place overall. If you want a romantic destination, Italy is the answer. Good food, multiple fun activities to choose from, etc. But my favorite activity is the vespa ride in the countryside – such beautiful backdrop to go with your special someone! Thanks for sharing. 🙂 – Ella

I agree, the Vespa ride is unforgettable–and Italy is the perfect romantic destination! Easy to see why it’s at the top of so many honeymoon lists.

I’m in Florence now and was really looking forward to getting that reflection shot of Ponte Veccio. It’s been raining a lot though so there is no reflection, I’m so jealous of your Instagram shot! The sunset you witnessed from the bell tower sounds very romantic.

Ohh, I hope you get it! At night they light it up a little bit to help the reflections along–if you have a tripod and a dry night, you might try that!

Tuscany is my favourite region in Italy, and you’ve really captured the romance and beauty! I love the food especially and the wine here is exquisite. I think my favourite thing that you’ve mentioned is the art in Florence. You can’t help but fall in love with it.

The art definitely is amazing! We loved walking around and soaking it all in.

Thanks for this great article! Florence is just a romantic city indeed. I am glad you mentioned the art, I believe this is what makes this city so special. You can take art history courses in Florence even if you are there for a short stay, I think it could also be something romantic to do with your partner! Thanks again for sharing your tips with us!

It definitely would be! I hear there are drawing and art classes too, which would also be great. Jeremy and I are terrible artists, but we may still consider trying our hand at one of those!

Do you have any recommendations for Tuscany villas?

Yes! I need to do a whole guide on these eventually. 🙂 A big part of Tuscany villas is choosing a location, so that depends on your taste. We love Villa Stefania near Lucca (our family has rented it twice!), as well as Il Colombaio near Siena. Both are beautiful villas, but they’re in very different parts of Tuscany!

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tuscany TRAVEL GUIDE

Do picturesque Medieval towns, rolling green hills covered in vines, cypress lined roads, and some of the most delicious food in Italy sound like your idea of paradise? Then you need to visit Tuscany.

Home to the Renaissance capital, Florence, the region is renowned for its art history, Chianti wine, beautiful cities, and charming small towns that have inspired films like Under The Tuscan Sun and a whole suite of dreamy literature. Considered by many to be ‘quintessential Italy’, Tuscany is one of Italy’s biggest regions and it offers visitors many diverse experiences from city, to countryside as well as the seaside along the Mediterranean coast. 

Whether you’re dreaming about a trip to visit the Leaning Tower, sipping a glass or two at a Chianti winery, or eating the famous Florentine steak , travel in Tuscany is truly a dream come true for many. Keep reading to find out how to make the most of your time there with our Tuscany travel guide. 

Article contents

Where is Tuscany

Tuscany is nestled in the middle of Italy and on its western border are the Ligurian and Tyrrhenian seas. including an archipelago of 7 islands off the coast. The region borders Liguria, Emilia Romagna, Le Marche, Umbria and Lazio.

Florence is the capital of Tuscany and is easily reached from Rome in an hour and a half on the fast train; from Milan in two hours; and Venice in just over two hours. When visiting Tuscany by car, it is remarkably quick to enter into the countryside from Florence – the Chianti region is just 35km away. 

Map of Tuscany

Main cities and towns in tuscany.

Tuscany is the fifth largest region in Italy and is divided into different areas that each offer something new to discover from art and local traditions to wine, olive oil and the seaside. Some of our favorite Tuscan towns to visit include: 

• Florence: A trip to Tuscany is not complete without passing through Florence considered to be the birthplace of the Renaissance. Art and history lovers will delight as they stroll the streets once home to Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli, and visit the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries as well as the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens. 
• Lucca : Encircled by Renaissance-era walls, Lucca is one of the most charming towns to visit in Tuscany (and beyond!) A trip to this gorgeous small city could include a bike ride along the walls, visiting the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro (built over an ancient Roman amphitheater), stunning villas like Villa Garzoni and Palazzo Pfanner, as well as Casa di Puccini – home to the great opera composer. 

Chianti / Siena Area

• Siena : Long time rival of Florence, this medieval city is stunning in her own rite. Siena is a place where traditions run deep, best embodied by the continuation of the Palio horse race that has been running since 1232! Explore the UNESCO Heritage listed old town, 12th century Cathedral, and of course the Piazza del Campo where the Palio is held every year. 
• Greve in Chianti : In t he heart of the Chianti wine region, Greve is a gorgeous town famed for wine, extra virgin olive oil, and the truffles that grow in the surrounding countryside. Wine shopping is on the cards here, as well as a delicious lunch in one of the town’s many excellent restaurants. 
• San Gimignano : Considered the ‘Medieval Manhattan’ thanks to its dozen towers still standing, San Gimignano is one of the most picturesque and atmospheric towns in Tuscany. Don’t miss climbing up one for a fabulous view! While you’re there, feast on their famous saffron, ham, with a glass of local wine – Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

Val D’Orcia

• Pienza : Cheese lovers will want to visit Pienza to try their incredible Pecorino sheep’s milk cheese! Redesigned by Pope Pius II to be a ‘utopia’, the town is full of charming cobblestoned lanes, romantic street names, and the scent of fresh cheese wafting through the air at every turn. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Val D’Orcia countryside from the Piccolomini Palace gardens.
• Montepulciano : In the heart of Tuscany’s southern wine country, Montepulciano is said to be o ne of the most beautiful Tuscan Medieval hilltop towns. Indulge in wine tasting of the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and feasting of cheese, pork, thick hand-rolled pasta, honey, and lentils here. 
• Montalcino : To enjoy some of the most stunning views over the Arbia, Asso, and Ombrone valleys, you can’t miss a stop in Montalcino. Covered with olive orchards and vineyards, Montalcino is known for its Brunello di Montalcino wine so plenty of tasting is recommended here.

READ: Our full guide to visiting the glorious Val d’Orcia .

Arezzo Province

• Arezzo : The setting for Academy Award winning film La Vita e’ Bella (Life is Beautiful), Arezzo is a total gem. Settled by Etruscans, it is full of fascinating history and architecture that also spans across Roman, Medieval, Renaissance, and Romanesque periods. Visit to enjoy quiet piazzas, long lazy lunches and the monthly antiques fair.
• Cortona : Made forever famous thanks to Frances Mayes’ Under the Tuscan Sun , Cortona is a sweet Medieval town with Etruscan roots and incredible hillside views across the Valdichiana valley and Lake Trasimeno. Wander its narrow streets, admire the Medieval architecture, and pay a visit to the Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca to learn more about its past.

Province of Pisa

• Pisa : Made forever famous thanks to the Leaning Tower , you can’t miss the main attraction of this city. However, you should linger a little longer in Pisa. A trip to this university city will uncover beautiful historic churches, Medieval castles, and ancient bridges across the River Arno. Strolling through the beautiful old town pre or post ‘tower-selfie’ is something many visitors miss out on in their rush to see the main attraction.
• Volterra : We think it’s impossible to visit too many pretty hilltop towns, and Volterra is a highlight. A walled town perched atop a mountain, Volterra has a long and fascinating history that dates back to before 8BC. Explore along the ancient walls and fortresses and go shopping at one of the many artisan shops in town.  

Tuscan Coast

• Grosseto : The capital of Tuscany’s ‘ Maremma ’ coast, Grosetto is an interesting town rebuilt by the Medici family in the 16th century. Visit the Archeological Museum, Dante Alighieri square, and Cathedral of San Lorenzo. 
• Porto Ercole : Don’t miss this  pretty seaside town in the Maremma along the Monte Argentario peninsula. Enjoy swimming and boat trips, exploring Spanish forts and indulging in the delicious seafood focused cuisine. 
• Capalbio : A charming town on the border of Tuscany and Lazio, Capalbio is also known as the city of artists. Don’t miss the Tarot Garden full of gigantic, grotesque statues created by Franco-American artist Niki de Saint Phalle.  It’s also particularly famous for its wild boar sagra (food festival) in September.
• Elba Island : Enjoy sparkling blue waters, and nature on this little piece of Tuscan paradise. Devoid of the crowds that flock to the more well known coastal areas of Italy, you can enjoy some tranquility and gorgeous beaches here. 

Top things to do in Tuscany

Whether you are a foodie, wine connoisseur, history buff, art lover, beach goer, or nature enthusiast, there is truly something for everyone in Tuscany. Here are some of the best things to do when traveling in Tuscany: 

Taste the celebrated local wines

Home to some of the best known wine in Italy, wine tasting is one of the best things to do in Tuscany. Visit the Chianti region to try the famous Chianti Classico wines made with Sangiovese grapes or head to the Val d’Orcia to try Brunello di Montalcino or Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Enjoy a stroll along the vines, and pay a visit to the cantina (cellar) to see how wine is made, before sampling the wine. Be sure to make an appointment to visit a winery in advance as you can generally not just turn up unannounced in Italy. An exception to this is Marchesi Antinori where you can drop in for a tasting at their futuristic wine room. Or, better yet, relax while everything is taken care of and consider joining this popular small group wine tour from Florence .

Explore Tuscany’s many Medieval towns

There are endless beautiful Medieval towns to visit in Tuscany so be sure to add some to your itinerary. Sweeping views over vineyards and olive groves are guaranteed, as is delightful meandering along cobblestoned paths, fantastic local food and popping into artisan workshops. If you’re not planning to drive, consider joining a day tour like this day trip from Florence to explore some of the top towns in Tuscany plus have lunch at a winery.

Relax at a thermal spa

Did you know Tuscany is famous for its healing thermal spas? The most famous to visit is Saturnia where thermal warm water cascades down the slope of a hill into gorgeous pools of 37°C water for you to bathe in. Besides the free baths, you can also visit many luxury thermal spa hotels in and close to the Val d’Orcia area like the Terme di Saturnia Resort .

Explore the best art galleries in Florence

If you’re a lover of art, then you really cannot miss a trip to Florence. Start with the world renowned Uffizi Gallery, home to Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus”, statues by Michelangelo and more. Next, you’ll want to visit the Galleria dell’Accademia where you’ll find Michelangelo’s original and magnificent statue of David. Get the most out of your trip with a guided tour with Liv Tours .

Go truffle hunting

Try your luck finding the elusive white or black truffle when in Tuscany! The best area in Tuscany for truffle hunting is near the town of San Miniato. Try this tour that includes a delicious truffle laden lunch after your hunt in the area.  In fact, the town hosts a spectacular truffle sagra (festival) every weekend in November which is well worth the trip. 

Bike around Lucca’s Renaissance city walls

Lucca is a jewel of the region and easily reached from Florence by car or train. Do as the locals do whilst there and hire a bike for the day to ride around the city walls and take in the gorgeous views with the wind in your hair. Try this bike tour that includes some stops to sample typical cuisine too!

What to eat and drink in Tuscany

Tuscany is home to many delicious specialties, but some favorites you can’t miss include: 

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina: Perhaps the most famous food in Tuscany is Florentine steak. This cut of beef comes only from the white Chianina cows found in Val di Chiana, is served on the bone and is dry aged for between 15 to 20 days. Florentine steak must be served rare for the ultimate mouth watering experience.
• Lampredotto : Florence’s favorite street food is a panino filled with the fourth stomach of a cow and a zesty salsa verde
• Cinghiale pasta : wild boar pasta served with long pappardelle noodles.
• Ribollita : a hearty Tuscan bread and vegetable soup, including locally grown cavolo nero (black kale)
• Finocchiona Salami: Tuscany is known for its spectacular cured meats, but perhaps the best is the finocchiona – a pork salami flavored with fennel.  
• Schiacciata di Uva: Look out for this treat during the harvest season (Sept-October). It’s a fluffy bread made with focaccia dough and small, sweet, black grapes called uva fragola . 
• Castagnaccio : A Fall/Autumn favorite, this chestnut flour cake is made with new olive oil, raisins, and pine nuts and is both gluten-free and vegan friendly.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Peppery Tuscan EVOO is revered throughout Italy. If you are lucky enough to travel to Tuscany in Fall/Autumn, look out for ‘olio nuovo’ or new oil that has just been pressed for the best olive oil tasting of your life.
• Chianti Classico: Tuscany is known for many wines, however Chianti Classico is the most quintessential. Don’t miss tasting some on your trip. 

Where to stay in Tuscany

There are many different accommodation options available in the region including hotels, apartments, B&Bs, and agriturismi (farmhouses). Tuscany is no stranger to tourism, which means that there are well-established facilities built up in the region to suit a range of group sizes, budgets, and accommodation needs. 

Florence makes for a great base to explore Renaissance art as well as day trips into the Chianti countryside. Whether you’re driving, going with a tour group, or taking public transport, you can also easily visit Siena, the Val d’Orcia, Pisa, Lucca, and Arezzo for the day from here.

We like the St Regis Hote l for 5 star luxury or try a more budget friendly option that’s extremely well located like Hotel Perseo . Take a read of our article on where to stay in Florence for more ideas.

If you’d like to immerse yourself in the countryside for a few days, then consider staying in the Chianti or Val d’Orcia areas. Castellina in Chianti, Pienza, and Montepulciano all make wonderful bases for exploring wineries, and hilltop towns. Consider staying at a winery like Querceto di Castellina or an agriturismo like Merigge Montepulciano for a more immersive experience. 

Lucca is another excellent base to escape the crowds with easy access on the train to Florence. From here, you can explore the Garfagnana area too with a car. Find our recommendations in our guide on Where to stay in Lucca .

Siena is perfectly placed for visiting the southern part of Tuscany, the Val d’Orcia, if you prefer to have city accommodation and are prepared to drive as this area is not well serviced by efficient public transportation.

For those looking to soak in what life in a real Tuscan town is like, consider basing yourself in beautiful Arezzo instead. It’s well connected by train and lacks the crowds of Florence and Siena. 

When to go to Tuscany

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Tuscany as the countryside turns green and temperatures are pleasant for exploring (46-66°F or 8-19°C). Enjoy new season artichokes, fresh fava beans, fresh cheese and plenty of food festivals like the cherry sagra or the frog festival.

Summer in Tuscany can get very hot with temperatures easily reaching 86F(30C) and beyond. Florence gets particularly hot and humid during this time, so staying outside the city and having access to a swimming pool or the beach is a good idea. 

Fall/Autumn is a wonderful time to visit as the region comes to life with the harvest season . If you’re a foodie, you’ll enjoy truffles, porcini mushrooms, saffron, new wine and extra virgin olive oil as well as a suite of sagre or food festivals. Look out for the sagre (food festivals) in Panzano and Greve where the towns are decorated with flags and colorful decorations, as well as the Pecorino di Pienza festival dedicated to the delicious sheep cheese. 

The wintertime in the region can get very cold and even snow with temperatures around 38-42°F (3.5°C – 5.5°C). During the festive season, there are wonderful Christmas markets held all over the region particularly in Florence, Sien a, and Arezzo. Prices are a little cheaper and crowds a little thinner too after the new year. 

How to get to Tuscany

It might surprise you to learn that the main airport in Tuscany is Pisa and not Florence. Florence is a very small airport that doesn’t have great connections so consider flying into Pisa instead from abroad or other major Italian cities. 

Traveling by train to Tuscany is easy from the major Italian cities. Take the high speed rail services and you can be in Florence in 90 minutes from Rome, 2.5 hours from Venice, under 2 hours from Milan and around 40 minutes from Bologna.

If you’re driving, you can reach Florence from Rome along the A1/E35. The average travel time ranges between 2 hours and 30 minutes and 3 hours and 15 minutes depending on traffic. From Milan, you’ll travel south along the A1 with travel time around 4 hours. From Venice, the trip is a little shorter around 3 hours along the A13.

How to get around Tuscany

Florence is best explored by foot and a car will only frustrate so it’s best to leave this parked during your stay in the Renaissance city.

There are reliable and fast regional train routes to Lucca, Arezzo, and Pisa. Florence to Lucca takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes, whilst Pisa and Arezzo are quicker and take less than an hour by train. Getting to Siena however takes about two hours so is much slower via train. Book your train tickets in advance online with Omio . 

It’s best to hire a car to explore the countryside including the Chianti, Val d’Orcia, and Maremma regions. We recommend renting your car with Autoeurope or Car Rental by booking.com from the airport (Pisa or Florence) to avoid navigating through sometimes stressful driving in the city centers. Read our driving tips for Italy for more information.

For those not wanting to drive, consider hiring a private driver or joining a tour to experience the best of the countryside. 

Let’s go to Tuscany!

Are you inspired to visit after reading our travel guide to Tuscany? If you would like to learn more about this gorgeous region of Italy, have a listen to our podcast episode about the Chianti region , or exploring Florence .

We have a wealth of further information available on our site to read including articles on best agriturismi in Tuscany , hidden gems in Florence , best museums in Florence , and Florence highlights . 

Want to discover Tuscany with us? For a deeper local connection, why not join one of our Tuscany small group tours . 

Tuscany Itinerary: See the Best Places in One Week (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: July 4, 2023

Planning a trip to Tuscany and not sure where to start and what’s the best Tuscany itinerary?

In our previous post, you could read about some of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany . In this article, you can read how to combine all those beautiful places (and some more) and create the perfect Tuscany trip itinerary that allows you to experience the very best of this picturesque region in one week.

How many days do you need in Tuscany

While you can see the main cities in 3-4 days, I recommend at least one week for Tuscany . This will allow you to see not just all the highlights of the best towns of Tuscany, but also to get a glimpse of the beautiful Tuscan countryside.

Below, you can find our suggested Tuscany itinerary that shows you where to go and what to see if you have one week in Tuscany. Read on!

How to see the best of Tuscany in one week

This Tuscany itinerary starts and ends in Florence. However, you can start and end in other towns and combine this trip with a visit to the other regions (e.g. Cinque Terre or Bologna ). This is really just meant to show you what’s possible and how to plan your time in Tuscany.

In order to see the very best of Tuscany and to experience some of its stunning landscapes, it’s best to visit the region by car. On the other hand, you don’t really need a car in the cities. Train connections between major towns in Italy are really good. So if you want to, you can visit some of the most beautiful towns using public transport only.

While this Tuscany itinerary is made assuming that you have a car, you can easily adapt it to your needs and your way of traveling. Just use this itinerary as a guide to the best places in Tuscany, how much time you need at each place, and how to best plan your trip.

At the bottom of the article, you can also find a map indicating all the places mentioned in this Tuscan itinerary. Read on!

One Week Tuscany Itinerary

Day 1 – florence.

Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy and is not to be missed in any Tuscany itinerary.

One full day is the minimum that you need in order to see the main highlights of Florence . You can find more information, tips, and advice for visiting Florence in some of the more detailed guides to the city on our blog.

Not to be missed in Florence is the Cathedral (you can climb the dome of the Duomo as well), Ponte Vecchio, Accademia Gallery, Uffizi Gallery, and Palazzo Vecchio. If you have just one day in Florence, stroll the old town, check out the market, and walk to Piazzale Michelangelo for the best sunset view in Florence. Alternatively, have a drink at one of the best rooftop bars in Florence .

Stay in Florence for at least one night, in order to take full advantage of your time here. If you are traveling by train, I recommend a hotel close to the railway station. We recently stayed at Hotel Croce di Malta , an excellent mid-budget 4*hotel with a lovely rooftop terrace. If traveling by car, keep in mind that parking in the city is very expensive.

TIP: If you only have limited time and want to see the best of Florence in one day, be sure to book priority tickets for ALL the places you absolutely want to visit inside.

LEARN MORE: One Day in Florence

Day 2 – Florence to Siena

Leave Florence early in the morning and drive to Siena. Via Chiantigiana road SR 222 from Florence to Siena is very scenic, so you may want to take this road rather than a highway.

Spend the rest of the day exploring the beautiful town of Siena. Must-see in Siena is Piazza del Campo with its Palazzo Pubblico and the Mangia Tower, Siena Duomo (Cathedral), and the picturesque streets of the Old Town. 

TIP: Stay in Siena for 1 or 2 nights. Albergo Chiusarelli is one of the best picks in towns in terms of price/location/quality.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Siena

Day 3 – Val d’Orcia – Tuscan countryside

Here is a scenic road trip suggestion through the picture-perfect Tuscan countryside – Val d’Orcia – that you can take as a day trip from Siena.

If you have the time, you may want to spend a couple of days in this area, but one day is sufficient to drive through the scenic Tuscan countryside.

From Siena take the road SR2 to San Quirico d’Orcia. From here continue East along the SR146 in the direction of Montepulciano. This is the most scenic road in Tuscany – the one with the typical Tuscan landscapes you see in travel magazines and on postcards. 

Take your time to explore Val d’Orcia and visit at least a couple of charming little towns in the area: Pienza , Montepulciano , San Quirico d’Orcia , Monticchiello , Montalcino … Also the Abbey of Sant’Antimo is worth a visit.

With just one day in this region, I think I’d focus on Montepulciano, Pienza, and the countryside of Val d’Orcia.

TIP: If you are in Siena without a car, the best way to explore the Tuscan countryside is by taking an organized tour, e.g. this wine tour that brings you to Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano from Siena .

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Montepulciano

Day 4 – San Gimignano and Volterra

San Gimignano and Volterra are both relatively small towns and their proximity to each other means that you can easily visit them in one day. 

San Gimignano , famous for its fourteen medieval towers has a tiny but very picturesque Old Town. It can get extremely busy during the day, so I recommend going there first thing in the morning.

One of the main places to see is Piazza della Cisterna. You can also climb to the top of the Torre Grossa.

Volterra has a great atmosphere in the evening, so it’s best to visit it later in the day. It’s a charming medieval town and it’s nice to just stroll the streets, check out some souvenir shops, and have a nice Tuscan dinner.

In my previous post, you can read more about what to see and do in San Gimignano and in Volterra .

TIP: One of the nicest and good price/quality hotels in Volterra is Hotel La Locanda . If you are on a tighter budget but want something really special, stay in Chiostro Delle Monache Hostel Volterra . It’s located in the 15th-century Franciscan monastery, has a great location, and free parking.

Day 5 – Pisa

Take your time to explore Pisa . Don’t limit your visit to the leaning tower of Pisa only! In fact, the leaning tower of Pisa is just one of the many monuments of Miracle’s Square. The Cathedral and the Baptistery are very impressive as well.

Pisa town center has no crowds and is very picturesque as well. Stroll the Arno River promenade and check out the Borgo Stretto, an old shopping arcade with many restaurants, cafés, and shops.

TIP: If you are touring around Tuscany by car, I’d advise not to stay in Pisa. Instead, drive to Lucca after you visited Pisa and stay there for two nights. Lucca has such a great atmosphere and several really nice hotels. They are located inside the city walls and so parking is not free (but possible). Check out  Hotel Palazzo Alexander or  Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli .

Day 6 – Lucca

Lucca is our favorite town in Tuscany. You can see the main highlights in just one day, but you definitely won’t regret it if you choose to stay a bit longer. 

The main landmark is the city walls of Lucca which you can explore on foot or by bike. In fact, the best way to see Lucca is by taking a self-guided bike tour .

Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is another must-see in Lucca. Make sure also to climb at least one of the towers -Torre Guinigi or Torre Delle Ore for the best views in town. Here you can read more about what to see and do in Lucca .

TIP:  Take a food tour in Lucca – it’s a great way to explore the town and taste some of the typical local specialties.

Day 7 – Collodi, Pistoia, Prato, or the outskirts of Florence

There are several nice towns that you could visit between Lucca and Florence. Collodi, Pistoia, and Prato are all worth a detour.

We liked exploring the outskirts of Florence as well. You’re hardly out of the city, but the scenery is amazing. Take a road from Florence to Fiesole for stunning views and a beautiful Tuscan landscape.

Alternatively, you could easily visit Bologna. It’s located in the nearby Emilia Romagna region (so not in Tuscany), but is more than worth a visit if you find yourself in this part of Italy.

READ ALSO: Florence to Bologna Travel Info & Itinerary + Best Things to Do in Bologna

Where to stay for this Tuscany itinerary

Many people ask what’s the best area to stay in Tuscany . The answer really depends on what kind of trip you are planning.

If you are thinking of making a road trip in Tuscany , you can find my suggestions for hotels in each town in the day-to-day Tuscany itinerary above.

If, however, you don’t like changing hotels and packing your bags every day, you can also stay at one central location in the Tuscan countryside and take day trips from there. Sometimes you’ll need to drive an hour, sometimes two, so it’s not perfect, but it might still be easier and more relaxing, especially if you are traveling with kids.

TIP: If you want to stay in just one place for sightseeing, the best place to stay for exploring Tuscany would be the area close to Volterra or San Gimignano. It is very centrally located in Tuscany and is therefore ideal if you are looking to stay at just one hotel and explore the region by taking day trips. Here you can find the best deals for accommodation in Volterra and hotels in the San Gimignano area .

In fact, a few years ago we did just that when we were visiting Tuscany with our kids. We stayed at just one hotel in the Montaione area for 12 days and combined relaxing days by the pool with sightseeing. It worked well for us. You can read more in our best of Tuscany – itinerary from one central location post.

On our most recent trip to Tuscany, we were focusing on the area around Siena and Val d’Orcia, plus a few other places in Umbria too. For that, we opted to stay at this beautiful country house in Bettole.

There’s really not one ‘best’ spot to stay- Tuscany is way too big for that. So it all depends on which places you decide to visit.

Without a car: If you are not renting a car, the best places to stay for exploring Tuscany are either Florence or Siena. They both have good railway connections to the bigger towns and also a big choice of organized tours to the smaller villages in the countryside.

One week Tuscany trip itinerary map

Below, you can see an overview of this suggested Tuscany itinerary on the map.

Start in Florence, drive down to Siena, then on to San Gimignano and Volterra. Continue your trip towards Pisa and Lucca, and end in Florence.

Alternatively, continue to Cinque Terre, which is just a short ride from Pisa. Here you can find more information about how to see the best of Cinque Terre in one day .

Best Time to Visit Tuscany

Tuscany is a beautiful destination that has something to offer at any time of the year. That being said, the best time to visit Tuscany is in late spring or in early autumn. The very best months for sightseeing in Tuscany are May and September.

In the summer months, it’s very hot here. So if you are visiting in July or August, you may want to concentrate on the Tuscan countryside. A popular thing to do is rent a villa with a pool and make an occasional day trip to one of the smaller towns in the area.

Whereas the weather in late fall, in winter, and in early spring is more suitable for visiting the big cities rather than touring the countryside.

READ ALSO: Best Time to Visit Europe

So, this is our suggested Tuscany itinerary for up to one week. If you are planning a trip to Italy, make sure to check our Italy travel guide for more tips and travel advice for a big variety of popular destinations in Italy.

Alternatively, check our selection of articles below for more tips for a variety of destinations in Italy.

More tips for some of the most visited destinations in Italy:

• Best Things to Do in Rome
• Best Things to Do in Venice
• Best Things to Do in Milan
• Best Things to Do in Naples
• 2 days in Rome
• 1 day in Milan
• 1 day in Venice
• 1 day in Cinque Terre
• Tips for Visiting Rome
• Best Things to Do at Lake Como
• Bellagio, Lake Como
• Best of Lake Garda
• Best of the Italian Dolomites
• Emilia Romagna Region
• Hiking in the Dolomites
• Tips for Visiting Cinque Terre
• Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• Italian Riviera
• Best Day Trips from Naples

READ ALSO: Best Places to Visit in Italy

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Monday 26th of February 2024

What a fantastic blog! This has really inspired me! I am thinking to visit Florence and Tuscany for a week in mid-June.

After 2 nights in Florence, and having a car, what town would you recommend to stay as a base and then do day trips? In terms of day trips, a must visit for us are Sienna, Lucca and Volterra. And definitely a winery but without driving to it. Advice very welcome!

Tuesday 27th of February 2024

Hi Teddy, if you want to visit Sienna, Lucca, and Voltera, you could stay somewhere in the middle between all these towns and make sure there's a winery nearby. I quickly checked something for you in the San Gimignano area which is very central and fits your criteria. There are several wineries that you can visit in that region and many accommodations, so you can find places to stay within walking distance to one or the other winery if you like. For example, this agriturismo (Capanna 1826) is just near this vineayrd. From what I read in the reviews of this accommodation, they even include a visit to their vineyard for free if you stay there. But there are many more options. You just have to do a bit more research and see what's available for your travel dates. If you don't mind taking a taxi to one or the other vineyard, then it will be easier. Just pick a hotel you like and then see what wineries there are nearby. Also, the San Gimignano area is just one of the many, so it's just a suggestion based on the info you gave. If you are traveling in June, I'd book your accommodations asap.

Ann Marie Pugliese

Friday 6th of October 2023

Hello, this blog seems very helpful. I am traveling to Italy for the first time with 9 family members for 2 weeks in June. We were trying to fit in so much, but don't think it's feasible with so many people. Was hoping to visit Venice, Tuscany, Rome and The Amalfi Coast. Also, we are planning to stay in Air bnb's along the way. Just not sure if we should travel to each area and stay for 3 days or find 2 central hubs and take day trips? Any insight you can offer would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Monday 9th of October 2023

@Jurga, THANK YOU SO MUCH!! Greatly appreciate the information!!

Sunday 8th of October 2023

Hi Ann Marie, since these areas are located quite far from each other and each has so much to offer, I think that staying in each place for a few nights is indeed better than looking for two base locations. You could start with 4-5 days in Sorrento (from where you can easily visit Amalfi Coast, Capri Island, Naples, Pompeii, etc.), then move on to Rome for 3-4 days. From there, take a train to Florence which is a good base for Tuscany, Cinque Terre, and also Bologna. Depending on what you want to see, you could stay here for 4-5 days. And finally, take a train to Venice and stay there for 2-3 nights. You can find lots of information for all these destinations on our blog. See an overview of all articles on our Italy travel page. This 2-week Italy itinerary might also be helpful - just to see what's possible and how you could structure your time at some places. For Amalfi Coast, take a look at this guide. Good luck with the planning!

Sunday 18th of June 2023

Hi, I am considering a 3 night stay in Florence next Summer followed by a week in self catering accomodation somewhere on the coast (we will not be driving, therefore, will be making use of public transport when we transfer from Florence to our second destination). We love Sorrento, Taormina and the Lake Garda towns and are wondering where on the coast (quite manageable by train from Florence), would have a similar vibe / buzz (i.e lively atmosphere) to these places? We would obviously fly into Florence but would be happy to go home from a different airport.

My other option is to follow on from Florence with a week in self catering accomodation (definitely with a pool to cool off), within walking distance of one of the cities / towns in the region - but I'm having difficulty deciding between Siena. Lucca and San Gimignano (or somewhere else with a Sorrento type 'feel' to it!!).

Any suggestions / advice would be gratefully received

Many thanks, Becs

Tuesday 20th of June 2023

Hi Becs, as you can imagine, there are too many options for me to give you any kind of reasonable suggestion. :) Also, there are two coasts - with places like Rimini or Ravenna to the east or the Cinque Terre area, Ligurian towns, etc. to the west. I assume you mean west? Without a car, by the sea, you could split your stay between the Cinque Terre area and Italian Riviera (e.g. Portovenere or Monterosso al Mare for a few days followed by a few days in Rapallo or St Margherita Ligure. If you are looking for a bigger city - check out Genoa. If you rather stay in central Tuscany, then Siena is definitely a lot better than San Gimignano - in terms of transport, things to do, etc. San Gimignano is a tiny village. Lucca is also very nice but not as centrally located as Florence or Siena for all the most popular places. Bologna is amazing too, btw! You can also just stay in Florence the whole time and make day trips. It also depends so much on what exactly you want to see. Good luck! Whatever you choose, you can't really go wrong - the whole area has so much to offer.

Kim Hendrickx

Monday 17th of April 2023

We are a family of 5 and we will be going on a week trip to Tuscany at the end of this month, We will be staying in a country guesthouse in Montaione. This will be our base to see different places in Tuscany, as we have a car. Could you recommend which cities are best to visit to get a real feel of Tuscany. We also want to do some wine tasting in Chianti and Montepulciano, so any tips on nice wineries to visit would be much appreciated. Thank you.

Hi Kim, you can find all the suggestions in this article and you may also want to take a look at this guide to some of the best towns in Tuscany. This is by no means a complete list and there are dozens of amazing places. But if this is your first time, you'll probably not want to miss the main cities such as Florence or Siena, so you need at least 2-3 days for that. The rest really depends on your interest and preferences. Of the smaller ones, San Gimignano is really nice, also Volterra, Montepulciano, and Pienza. If you have even more time, you may want to check out Montalcino and Cortona, also San Quirico d'Orcia. A week will fly by! As for the wineries, we really enjoyed a very unique wine cave visit in Montepulciano last summer. You can find more details in our Montepulciano guide. And this is a really nice winery that you can visit in Chianti. The problem with winery visits is that it's not really something you can do (and enjoy wine) if you have to drive afterward. So ideally, you have a dedicated driver, find a winery close to your accommodation and take a taxi, or book a tour (but those are usually only available departing from big towns so not ideal unless you stay in Florence or Siena). But definitely check out the wine cellar in Montepulciano if you go there! You can also taste just a bit of wine and buy some to take with you to enjoy at your accommodation. Enjoy your trip!

Tuesday 21st of March 2023

Looking for some advice on my trip to Italy in Aug/Sept. Flying into Venice and staying for 3 days then headed to Florence/Tuscany region for 5 nights. We don't want to rent a car but want to go wine tasting and check out the countryside and maybe the hill towns. After the 5 nights we head to Sorrento for 4 nights and finish off in Rome. Looking for advice on where I should stay in Florence/Tuscany area. Should I stay a few nights in both places or stay in one place and do day trips by train? Where do I take the train from to end up in Amalfi? Any advise appreciated.

Hi Rosemary, some of the best places to stay in Tuscany when traveling by train are Florence and Siena. You can find plenty of Tuscan countryside/wine tours from any of these towns (see here for tours from Florence and here - from Siena). If you don't mind changing hotels, you can spend a few nights at each of these; otherwise, I would recommend staying in Florence. There are many nice hotels close to the station (just in the center too), and it's very easy to explore the city or plan day trips. At the bottom of this guide of the best places to see in Florence, you can find some hotel recommendations for this area. For the Amalfi Coast, you'll have to take a train to Naples (there are high-speed trains from Florence to Naples - see here for train schedules and to prebook your tickets). Here you can find our guide on how to get to the Amalfi Coast from Naples. Have a great trip!

Tuscany Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in Tuscany

Cypress-lined winding roads, great wines, and Renaissance cities full of history – that’s what most people associate with Tuscany when they think of this beautiful region in Italy. But Tuscany offers so much more. From picturesque medieval hill towns to unique thermal springs to unparalleled landscapes – Tuscany has it all!

In this travel guide, I’m sharing the highlights of this charming Italian region with you, including the best things to do in Tuscany and the top places to visit in Tuscany. It also features the best tours and useful information for planning your trip. A visit to Tuscany should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list!

Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases/bookings made through these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I’ve personally used and genuinely like.

Tuscany Travel Guide – Quick Tips

Best Places to Stay | La Terazza Sul Duomo B&B , Hotel Lungarno , Palazzo Gaddi Best Time to Visit | May, September Best Tours | Highlights of Tuscany Day Trip , Chianti Wine Tasting Tour , Traditional Cooking Class How to Get Around | Rental Car , Train Top Places to Visit | Florence , Siena , San Gimignano, Hot Springs of Saturnia, Val D’Orcia Insider Tips | Pitigliano, Bagni San Filippo Stay Connected | Get your Europe eSIM

Keep reading for my full Tuscany travel guide…

How to Get to Tuscany & How to Get Around

If you live in a European country close to Italy, hitting the road to Tuscany by car is a fantastic option. On the other hand, if you travel to Tuscany from a long distance, catching a flight to one of Tuscany’s international gateways – Pisa or Florence – is the way to go.

Once you have arrived in Tuscany, the best option to get around is by car. It grants you the freedom to navigate even the most tucked-away treasures that public transport might miss. Tuscany is the perfect place for a road trip! Plus, driving through the scenic Tuscan countryside is a great travel experience by itself. Click here to compare rental car companies in Florence and Pisa .

🚘 BEST CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS

When booking a rental car online, I personally recommend and always use Discover Cars . They search not only for international car rental companies but also for small, local agencies to find the best deal for you . Plus, there are no hidden costs and they offer free cancellation. I always opt for full coverage because of their comepetitive rates!

However, if you would like to focus your Tuscany visit on the big cities, it is also possible to travel by train or do some guided tours including transportation.

Tip: Make sure to check out my blog post about the Best Tuscany Day Trips From Florence Without A Car .

Best Time to Visit Tuscany

The best time to visit Tuscany is in shoulder season from April – May and September – October. During these months it will be much less crowded compared to the peak season in summer. The temperatures are also very pleasant during this time. If you are a wine lover, the best month to visit for wine tours and harvest festivals is September. We have visited Tuscany once in May and once in September. The weather was perfect and it wasn’t too crowded at major attractions during both of our visits.

Where to Stay in Tuscany

Depending on which areas of Tuscany you want to see, you have to decide whether you want to stay in one place and take day trips from there or in multiple locations to be closer to specific attractions. We have tried both options. During our first Tuscany visit, we stayed at a charming agriturismo (farmhouse) located halfway between Florence and Siena , which was a great base to visit not only both cities but also the Chianti wine region, San Gimignano, and Volterra.

During our second visit, we stayed in three different locations: Florence , Montepulciano (to visit Val D’Orcia and Bagni San Filippo) and Manciano (to visit Saturnia and Pitigliano). I have linked all the hotels we stayed at the end of the article . Based on what you would like to see, you should decide which option is best for you. The next part of this Tuscany travel guide will give you an overview of the highlights of Tuscany as well as the best things to do in Tuscany. These will help you decide where to stay, depending on what places you personally don’t want to miss.

Best Things to Do in Tuscany

– Visit Florence, the Renaissance City – Go wine tasting in Chianti – Wander the streets of Siena – Visit the small hill town of San Gimignano – Go off the beaten path to Volterra – Snap a photo with the Leaning Tower of Pisa – Travel back in time in Pitigliano – Take a dip in the thermal springs in Saturnia – Relax at Bagni San Filippo – Enjoy the Tuscan landscape in Val D’Orcia

What to Do in Tuscany in Detail:

Visit florence, the renaissance city.

Florence , also known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, definitely should be on everyone’s itinerary when visiting Tuscany. This charming city boasts some of the most impressive historical buildings and magnificent arts.

Make sure to visit the stunning Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore , which is a masterpiece of Italian architecture. The cathedral and Brunelleschi’s Dome belong to the absolute highlights of Florence, therefore the ticket lines are oftentimes very long (hours of waiting!!). I recommed getting skip-the-line-tickets in advance, so you don’t waste any time standing in line (it is also possible to book tour options including a guide ). In my opinion, it’s better to use the time saved to enjoy an Aprol Spritz on the Piazza del Duomo. 😉

From the Piazza del Duomo , stroll through the historic streets to the Piazza della Signoria where you can find the Palazzo Vecchio , the Fountain of Neptune , and the Uffizi Gallery . If you have time, join a walking tour with a local guide to learn more about the history of Florence and the city’s most impressive museums (you will also see Michelangelo’s David ).

After the guided tour, cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio with its old shops spanning over the Arno River and enjoy the beautiful Boboli Gardens on the other side of the bridge. For the most beautiful sunset view overlooking Florence head to Piazzale Michelangelo . The view from up there is simply breathtaking!

In case you should decide to stay in one place during your Tuscany trip (and take day trips from there), Florence is a great choice because many tours start from there. If you only have a limited number of days, this Tuscany Day Trip is perfect to see many of the best places in Tuscany in just one day. The full day tour starts in Florence and will take you to the charming town of Siena, the medieval village of San Gimignano (one of my favorite places in Tuscany), and the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. It is also possible to include a homemade lunch and a wine tasting at a Tuscan farmhouse.

Another fun thing to do in Tuscany, is a traditional Italian cooking class . There are many different options for Italian cooking classes in Florence. Check out these top-rated cooking experiences below:

• Cooking Class & Lunch at Tuscan Farmhouse (from Florence)
• Pasta Cooking Class in Florence
• 4-Course Cooking Experience in Florence

Go Wine Tasting in Chianti

Tuscany is famous for its wines. There’s nothing like a wine tasting under the Tuscan sun! It’s actually one of the top things to do in Tuscany. The famous Chianti wine region is located in-between Florence and Siena.

We took the scenic Chiantigiana road (SR 222) which guarantees panoramic views over the idyllic vineyards. Make sure to stop in some of the charming towns in the Chianti wine region such as Greve in Chianti and Radda in Chianti .

Along the way, you can also visit some of the many different wineries for a wine tasting . Soak in the scenic views of the Tuscan landscape and simply enjoy la dolce vita with a glass of wine in your hand. Cin Cin! Next to wine, olive oil is also produced in the region.

If you are staying in Florence, make sure to check out these top-rated guided Chianti wine tasting tours starting from Florence:

• Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting (budget-friendly option)
• Small Group Wine Tasting Tour with Food Pairing (small group tour, my personal tip)

Wander the Streets of Siena

Siena is located south of Florence and belongs to the most charming cities in Tuscany. Wander the beautiful, old cobblestone streets in-between historic brick buildings. The old town of Siena, in fact, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The heart of the city is the unique, shell-shaped Piazza del Campo . At this bustling piazza, you can also find find Siena’s main points of interest: the Palazzo Publico and the Torre del Mangia , which you can climb for a panoramic view over Siena and the historic center.

Another must-see is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with its dramatic black and white striped façade. If you have time, you can join this 2-hour guided walking tour (including skip-the-line-tickets for the Duomo) that will take you to all main attractions of Siena’s historical center.

Don’t miss visiting Siena! It’s a must do and one of the best places to visit in Tuscany next to Florence. I truly loved this charming city.

You might also be interested in: 4 days in Cinque Terre

Visit the Small Hill Town of San Gimignano

San Gimignano is one of the most beautiful hill towns in Tuscany and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The picturesque town is also known as the ‘Medieval Manhattan’ and is famous for its medieval architecture and the many iconic ancient towers that create a unique skyline in the middle of the idyllic Tuscan countryside.

Stroll through the winding alleys of San Gimignano and visit the charming main square, the Piazza del Duomo . For magnificent views over San Gimignano and the surrounding Tuscan countryside, you can climb the Torre Grossa . I really loved the unparalleled charm of this medieval hill town. For me, it’s a must-see in Tuscany!

Tip: Head to the Piazza della Cisterna to enjoy an Italian Aperitivo including some snacks. Or if you are hungry, visit a local vineyard for lunch including a wine tasting in a picturesque outdoor setting.

For more information about San Gimignano, check out this comprehensive San Gimignano travel guide.

Go off the Beaten Path to Volterra

Volterra is a medieval hill town close to San Gimignano. When we visited Volterra it was much less crowded than San Gimignano. Volterra is surrounded by thick walls and is known for its Etruscan history and medieval buildings. I absolutely enjoyed wandering through the narrow, winding streets of this quaint town.

Sights in Volterra include the Piazza dei Priori , where you can find the Palazzo dei Priori , the Palazzo Pretorio with the Tower of the Piglet , the Duomo and Baptistery , the Teatro Romano (amphitheater), and the Etruscan walls, gates and museum . Volterra is definitely one of the best places to go in Tuscany to escape the tourist crowds.

You may also want to explore: Lake Como in 3 Days

Snap a Photo with the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is by far the most iconic sight of the Tuscan city of Pisa. It’s one of Italy’s most famous landmarks and one of the countries’ leading tourist attractions. So, expect to share this place with crowds of tourists from around the world.

Nevertheless, the Leaning Tower of Pisa on the Piazza dei Miracoli belongs to the places that are worth visiting once in your life. Make sure to snap a funny picture with the tower as a travel memory.

If you want to climb up the world-famous tower, I recommend getting a skip-the-line-ticket in advance because the ticket lines can get pretty long, like at all popular attractions in Italy.

Right next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, you can find the Duomo of Pisa which is also worth visiting. The interior of the cathedral is very beautiful and impressive. There are also guided tours available for both attractions.

Other than that, I recommend visiting the charming town of Lucca (close to Pisa) with its beautiful old town as well as the little mediaval town of San Miniato (famous for truffle hunting).

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Travel Back in Time in Pitigliano

Pitigliano belongs to my favorite places in Tuscany because it’s still a hidden gem . The small hilltop village is located in the deep south of Tuscany. Walking through the medieval cobbled alleys of Pitigliano felt like traveling back in time.

In the past, Pitigliano was an Etruscan settlement. Later in time it became home to a large Jewish community which led to the town’s nickname ‘Little Jerusalem’ .

From the main square of Pitigliano, the Piazza della Repubblica , you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the surrounding Tuscan countryside. But even more impressive for me was the view from Via San Michele (where we parked) over Pitigliano itself. This view of the steep hilltop village truly left me speechless!

This article may also pique your interest: Top Places to Visit in Puglia, Italy

Take a Dip in the Thermal Springs in Saturnia

The thermal hot springs of Saturnia, called Cascate del Mulino , are probably one of most unique things to do in Tuscany as well as one of the most hyped places. Cascate del Mulino is like a natural spa with milky blue rock pools and waterfall terraces situated in the middle of the Tuscan countryside.

The thermal water is around 37°C and very rich in minerals and sulfur which is good for your skin and well-being (you can smell the sulfur which is similar to rotten eggs but it’s not too bad). Don’t be afraid of the small red worms in the water – they are harmless and you will forget about them anyway when relaxing in the hot water of this unbelievably beautiful place.

We visited Cascate del Mulino twice because we loved these natural pools so much. You should definitely add this unique place to your Tuscany bucket list!

The best thing about the hot springs: they are actually FREE ! Due to the popularity of this place, you should avoid visiting the springs in peak season (during the summer months) and on the weekends to beat the crowds. Generally, the best time to visit is at sunrise. Tip: Avoid wearing jewelry because it will tarnish.

You may also want to explore: Highlights of the Amalfi Coast

Relax at Bagni San Filippo

If you are looking for a quieter and less crowded place, you should visit the thermal springs of Bagni San Filippo which are located in the middle of the woods. Compared to Saturnia, these hot springs are still a hidden gem.

The water at Bagni San Filippo can reach temperatures up to 50°C and the pools and waterfalls look very picturesque. I really loved the tranquility at Bagni San Filippo and that the water here gets really hot in some spots.

One really unique thing at Bagni San Filippo is the Fosso Bianco which is a calcium formation in form of a spectacular white rock. Don’t miss this place!

Enjoy the Tuscan Landscape in Val D’Orcia

The typical Tuscan landscape is what many people come for when visiting this idyllic region. Cypress-lined winding roads, rolling hills, endless vineyards, and olive groves – this is probably what comes to your mind when picturing Tuscany.

The best place to see this image of Tuscany in real life is Val D’Orcia, which is the epitome of the typical Tuscan landscape. The enchanting region of Val D’Orcia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features some of the most picturesque views of Tuscany.

Visiting Val D’Orcia was one of the most dreamy and romantic things to do in Tuscany for me. Also, make sure to stop by some of the charming towns within this area such as Pienza , Montalcino and Radicofani .

We stayed in the medieval hilltop town of Montepulciano which is the perfect base for visiting Val D’Orcia. But also the village itself is worth exploring because there are so many things to do in Montepulciano .

Where We Stayed:

La terrazza sul duomo b&b, florence.

If you are looking for a B&B to stay in Florence DIRECTLY at the Duomo, this is your place. I really loved the beautifully decorated rooms that are authentic and modern at the same time. The highlight of this B&B is undoubtedly the rooftop terrace with its breathtaking view over the red roofs of Florence and the Duomo. The view is absolutely priceless!

Tenuta Sant’Ilario, Gambassi Terme

Tenuta Sant’Ilario is nestled in-between idyllic vineyards and olive groves. The agriturismo is located in the Chianti area between Florence and Siena. I really loved the endless views and the tranquility at this place. We always enjoyed our breakfast outside while soaking in the panoramic views. The rooms are furnished in an authentic Tuscan style. Moreover, Tenuta Sant’Ilario has a pool to relax on hot days nestled in their idyllic garden.

Agriturismo La Pievina, Montepulciano

La Pievina is a small family-run agriturismo near Montepulciano. It’s located in the middle of the Tuscan countryside and offers scenic views over the surrounding hills and vineyards. We stayed here to visit the beautiful Val D’Orcia region. We really loved the homemade breakfast, the incredible infinity pool and the unparalleled sunsets at this agriturismo. Such a dream!

Agriturismo Quercia Rossa, Manciano

Quercia Rossa is a rural farmhouse near Saturnia. We stayed here to visit the thermal hot springs nearby as well as the medieval village of Pitigliano. I truly loved the endless views of the vast and hilly Tuscan landscape around this agriturismo, and especially the view from the pool in the middle of the olive groves. The rooms have an antique charm (maybe a bit too antique for my liking) and the breakfast was really great.

I hope you enjoyed reading this Tuscany travel guide! If you have any other questions about our Tuscany trip, let me know in the comments below!

Looking for more Italy Travel Guides? Click HERE for more Italy travel tips & content or select one of the articles below!

• 10 Best Day Trips from Florence without a Car
• 3-Day Lake Como Itinerary
• Amalfi Coast – Travel Guide & Best Things to Do
• Best Places to Visit in Puglia
• Cinque Terre & La Spezia in 4 Days

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Founder of Simply Madeleine

Madeleine is the storyteller and globetrotter behind Simply Madeleine, a travel blog focusing on bucket list destinations, memorable travel itineraries, and unique travel experiences. She travels the world full-time together with her fiancé. Together they have explored over 25 countries. On this blog, Madeleine shares detailed travel guides of the places they have visited, including the best things to do and the best hotels to stay. Originally from Germany, Madeleine has lived in many different countries around the world and is now based on an island in the Mediterranean Sea. She is a blogger, content creator, beach lover, and passionate photographer.

Hi Where would you recommend to stay for both the hot springs ? X

Hi Taneeka, the hot springs (Cascate del Mulino and Bagni San Filippo) are only 75 minutes apart from each other, so you can visit both of them if you stay for example in Manciano (close to Cascate del Mulino). You can find many lovely Agriturismos to stay at in Manciano. We loved it there!

Love your information! This is incredibly helpful 🥰 how / where would you recommend a car rental from?

Hi Mikki, I’m glad you found this blog post helpful. 🙂 If you arrive by air I would recommend renting a car directly at the airport in Pisa or Florence (depending on where you arrive). I always use Discover Cars to compare prices and find the rental car deal.

Loved all the tips. We are staying in Manciano as home base from July 20th to 27th and plan on getting a driver for a few day trips. My understanding is you need a car in that town as there are not taxis. What were some of your favorite wineries as day trips if you have some recommendations?

Hi Taylor, I just saw your comment. Unfortunately, we personally didn’t visit any wineries close to Manciano yet. But I heard that Tenuta Montauto and Fattoria La Maliosa are great wineries closeby to visit for a wine tasting. I hope you are having a wonderful time in Tuscany!

Comments are closed.

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Tuscany travel blog — the fullest tuscany travel guide for first-timers.

Those who have been to Florence, definitely must have heard of the poetic countrysides of Tuscany (Toscana in Italian), Italy. Cycling around Chianti, enjoying premium wine, or visit the vast countrysides of Siena. But actually, the most beautiful countrysides in Italy are located quite deep below, they are Val d’Orcia and San Quirico d’Orcia which are always covered with a endless green color of meadows, vineyards and beautiful farms on highlands and in valleys. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to the dreamland and paradise of Tuscany for the first-time? Let’s check out our Tuscany travel blog (Tuscany blog) with the fullest Tuscany travel guide (Tuscany guide, Tuscany tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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I never intended to go to Tuscany when knowing this is just the central Italian countryside, until I accidentally came to Florence and got lost in the scenes of villages, medieval towns, vineyards, olives groves with wineries, lush green vegetation. Tuscany instantly captivated me so that the first days of summer were surprisingly beautiful.

Tuscany travel blog: Overview of Tuscany

I have known Tuscany since I was a landscape photographer. That’s when I got to see the amazing photos of Val D’Orcia and San Quirico D’Orcia. If the natural beauty of Switzerland with mountains and rivers, then in Tuscany, it is majestic, poetic countryside, immense grasslands. The natural picture here is green in one color, gentle, tranquil and liberal, enough to inspire any lover or dreamer when coming here.

Tuscany blog: When to visit?

There are two beautiful times to consider for a roadtrip in Tuscany, which is from late April to mid-May, and autumn in Europe. In spring, flowers bloom everywhere in Tuscany, which is perfect for visiting the farms or large gardens. If you go in the fall and want to see the vast green prairies, you should go in early August, because at this time, local people will start cutting the grass and harvesting grapes. Then the hills will appear with a dry yellow color and not smooth.

• If you want to see sunflower fields, you must go after June and before September. From early September onwards farmers have already harvested seeds to make oil.
• The most beautiful time with green fields is around June and July. From August onwards, it has started to dry. From September onwards, the scenery have turned to yellow but romantic. However, July and August are the hottest months in Italy. You must bring sunglasses, hat and sunscreen. In the summer, even though it’s really hot, it will get colder in the evening. Especially if you go higher areas.
• In addition to summer, traveling to Tuscany from March to May is also okay, very green. However, it is still cold and there are no flowers at all.

Tuscany travel blog: Where to go, what to do?

To start exploring Tuscany, Florence is a must-visit destination. The capital of Tuscany in central Italy, Florence owns everything to be voted by many prestigious travel magazines as the most wonderful city in Europe. The whole city is a giant architectural style with pastel colors of walls and terracotta roof tiles of houses, each street corner seems to be a museum with untold stories. Florence deserves many fine words. If you’ve been here, you can’t help but visit the Florence Cathedral Duomo(Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), the legendary Ponte di Vecchio, the Galleria dell’Accademia, and the Piazzale Michelangelo square.

From Florence, you can travel by train to many ancient cities and towns in Tuscany, or just 30 minutes by car, you can visit a nearest olive grove and vineyard. If your time is tight to make an itinerary, as Tuscany’s most developed tourist city, Florence offers you everything with countless day tours to pick and explore all of Tuscany.

Siena used to be a large city in the Middle Ages, so the architecture of Siena is still keep intact. In the middle of the city is the town hall with the horse racing square, every year the small districts in the city will bring their horses here to race to win glory for themself. If you go to Siena on Saint Catherine’s Day on April 29 every year, or the horse racing day, the districts of the city will hang their own flags. I was lucky enough to come to Siena on the occasion of St. Catherine’s day, so I saw countless flags hanging along streets, alleys, feeling like I was watching Game of Thrones.

Things to do in Siena include tasting the region’s famous Chianti wine, visiting Piazza di Campo square, Siena’s church which made entirely of marble and don’t forget to go inside the church to explore the Piccolomini library which is built by Pope Pius II. The architecture inside is overwhelming and for me this is the most beautiful church I’ve been visited in Europe.

San Gimignano

A medieval town with 14 towering stone towers. In medieval times, San Gimignano was likened to today’s Manhattan in terms of prosperity. San Gimignano is quite small so you can explore in an afternoon. But don’t forget to climb a tower for a panoramic view of Tuscany to the horizon.

To explore Siena & San Gimignano, you can book a tour in Florence, or book a tour through KLOOK , I found that when buying from KLOOK the price is cheaper, so just book it and the service is very good.

Located in Umbria, Assisi is a beautiful hill town. When hearing about a place that has existed since the Middle Ages, surely many tourists will think of a town forgotten by time, not very developed with narrow winding streets, narrow alleys, houses with stone walls and old painted wooden doors. However, unlike the imagination above, Assisi is one of the largest Christian centers in the world with beautiful churches. In which Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi (Basilica di San Francesco d’Assisi) is the most famous cathedral in Assisi.

This ancient city is also known as a student city because there are many universities and colleges with many different disciplines. The most prominent is the University of Perugia, built in 1308, the University for Foreigners of Perugia and many other colleges such as the Academy of Fine Arts Pietro Vannucci.

Perugia is also famous as a cultural and artistic center of Italy with many festivals taking place all year round such as EuroChocolate festival, Umbria Jazz Festival, International Journalism Festival, …

Lake Trasimeno

When you come to Trasimeno, you can rent a house on a farm and experience the feeling of waking up in the sunrise of the Italian countryside. Make yourself a cup of hot coffee and make a delicious and light breakfast while enjoying the poetic beauty of Lake Trasimeno.

After that, you’ll have a full day of exploring and boating on the lake. If you go in a large group, you can also organize a picnic with dishes made from fresh ingredients at the farm.

Montepulciano

Although Montepulciano is a small town, the scenery here is extremely poetic and beautiful with brilliant sunflower fields. In addition, wine is also a famous specialty here. If you have stopped by Montepulciano, then come and enjoy wine at the bars here.

Like the Italian style itself, Lucca has a beauty that blends the modern and the antiquity of the time with fashion boutiques interspersed between immaculate ancient structures.

Lucca is also home to many famous composers such as Giacomo Puccini (with famous works of La Bohème and Madama Butterfly), Nicalao Dorati, Francesco Geminiani, Gioseffo Guami. With such a history, it is not surprising that the annual Lucca Summer festival is one of the most popular musical events in Tuscany.

In addition, Lucca is also the host city for the Lucca Comics & Games Festival, the biggest festival for comics, movies and games in Europe, attracting hundreds of thousands of fans to attend each year.

Pisa is a port city in the lower reaches of the Arno River. In Renaissance Period, Pisa was the second richest city after Florence. Today Pisa is a small city but has a unique artistic style and owns a unique architectural symbol in the world: the Leaning Tower of Pisa. From Florence, you take the 50-minutes train to get to Pisa. Then follow the flow of people to the Leaning tower of Pisa to visit.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa itself is so famous but it is only part of Pisa’s Central square. Visitors come here mainly just to take hundreds of pictures from the simple to the weird with the Leaning Tower. Personally, I like architecture, so I wandered around to see this small, sparsely populated city to understand more about the most important port city in Tuscany.

Not all of Tuscany’s hills and vineyards have the stunning coastline below. But Punta Ala is a great stop on the coastal area known as La Maremma.

Island of Elba

Elba Island (Isola d’Elba) is a romantic tourist island, located off the coast of Tirreno Sea, in the famous Tuscany country. Looking at Elba from above, you will have the feeling that the island looks like a small goldfish swimming in the sea.

Portoferraio – the main port town and also the capital of Elba – looks cute and gentle with its small houses painted in soothing pastel colors. The streets here are narrow, on both sides of the roads there are many colorful flower pots swaying in the wind, only the slopes are more pleasant than other central Italian cities such as Perugia, Siena, Assisi or Spoleto.

Enjoy Tuscan wine and olives

The Tuscan countryside can be seen from car, but to get a real taste of it, visit a winery and sample its fine wines. I stopped by Tenuta Torciano Winery and not only enjoyed more than 7 types of red to white wines but also used delicious vinegar and olive oil. These farms are not open to a single tourist, so you can book a tour in Florence to visit during the day, definitely a true Italian experience. There are two famous and savory Tuscan wines you should try called Sangiovese and Super Tuscan.

To experience this, you can buy a day tour in Florence, or book online through KLOOK to explore both San Gimignano and Siena.

Buonconvento

Buonconvento is a small town, just about 2-2.5 hours drive from Florence, this town is extremely peaceful, few people but has a lot of interesting things. It takes about 10 minutes to drive from Silvia’s farm (where I stayed) to the town center. Everything here is as peaceful as countrysides around it.

Another interesting thing not to be missed in this beautiful little town of Buonconvento is the delicious Gelato ice cream that we discovered located right next to Da Mario restaurant. Not only has delicious ice cream, but the salesman is also very cute, giving customers a lot of ice cream, the best Gelato I have ever tasted in Europe, the price is also cheaper than in other regions.

More things to do in Tuscany

In addition to visiting the Tuscany lush green prairies, there are many other places here that you cannot miss. It could be touring the small towns of the region, or going to the vineyards to enjoy fine wines.

Another route that you should refer to when traveling from Siena to Buonconvento is going through Asciano (please see on the map). On this road, the scenery on both sides is also extremely beautiful. The day I went, the grass here was almost cut, so the color could not be as beautiful as in the southern region. Alternatively, on the way from Buonconvento to Asciano, you can visit the Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore monastery. This is a monastery located on a high mountain with a beautiful view.

Another very beautiful place that you might consider visiting is La Foce garden located in Val D’Orcia. Entering this garden, you will feel like walking in a large royal garden of a palace, like a mix of Versailles palace and Tuileries Garden. In La Foce, the owner also has villas for rent, but the price will be quite high and require a minimum stay of 2 nights for each booking.

In general, with a travel time of only 2-3 days, it is difficult to fully enjoy the vast Tuscany region. If given the opportunity and conditions, I would love to stay longer than about 1 week. This place is extremely suitable for those who come with family, a fresh air and spacious space for everyone to experience together. Simply rent a large enough SUV, free to explore each road, small villages but hidden full of interesting things in this Tuscany region.

Tuscany travel blog: What and where to eat?

Enjoying pasta, pizza and wine as well as Tuscan cuisine is a fascinating experience you can’t miss! Like Italian cuisine in general, Tuscan cuisine is based on the use of the freshest and simplest ingredients of season including a variety of beans, cheeses, vegetables and fruits. And here are some suggestions for you:

• Crostini Toscani: The word crostini literally means bread, similar to a baguette, served with chopped chicken liver sauce.
• Panzanella (Tuscan-Style Tomato and Bread Salad) is a cold bread salad with the main ingredients including unsalted bread, tomatoes, red onion, basil, olive oil, vinegar, and salt.
• Lardo di Colonnata: This dish is actually pork lard produced in the town of Colonnata.
• Ribollita: Ribollita soup is one of the most popular winter dishes in Tuscany containing different types of cabbage, beans, onions, and carrots.
• Castagnaccio: It is a traditional Tuscan chestnut cake made with chestnut flour, very popular in the Apennine mountain region of Tuscany.

Tuscany blog: Suggested 2-day Tuscany roadtrip and how to get from Florence

As mentioned above, you can take the train to the countryside in Tuscany, but it will be quite inconvenient and take a long time. The most convenient is to rent a car in Florence and then self-drive to the south, through Siena and visit its beautiful countrysides. Rentingg a private car to drive can both be proactive in the schedule while you can go and admire the scenery on the roadside, stop whenever you like.

Details of my 2 day Tuscany itinerary:

Day 1: Took the car from Florence and drove down to Buonconvento, where I booked an overnight stay at a local farm. The itinerary will have to go through Siena so you can choose to go straight on the highway to Buonconvento because my main purpose is to visit Val D’Orcia. If you have time, you may not choose the highway but follow the SR222 road to visit more Panzano or Chianti. Dinner in town and overnight in Buonconvento.

Day 2: Early morning drive to visit two regions Val D’Orcia and San Quirico D’Orcia, which have the most beautiful scenery in Tuscany (in my opinion). Then come back, resting and exploring the farm Podere Salicotto that I chose as a place to stay. On the drive back to Florence I took the route from Buonconvento through Asciano and back to Siena to access the highway to return to Florence.

The route from Florence to Buonconvento has many stops to admire the beautiful scenery on both sides of the road. If your time is tight, you should choose the highway to go for faster, the traveling time for a 150km distance is only about 2.5 hours, the highway is very beautiful and the speed is stable.

After picking up my car from Locauto rental company I started driving out from the center of Florence. The street was not too crowded and easy to go, so you can rest assured, just go according to the law. Follow Google Maps and get out of the city to access the highway. From here running straight to Siena and continue to Buonconvento. One thing to note is that if you want to be fast, you should only take the highway, and you need to pay attention to the road because it is easy to go wrong on roads in town, make the speed will be slow a lot because these roads have many traffic lights, many cars make you cannot go as fast as on the highway.

Tuscany blog: Where to stay in Tuscany?

However, coming to Tuscany, you must stay at a beautiful farm in this region.

Along the romantic swath of Tuscany are vast countrysides known for its rolling hills, cypress trees, charming old towns, stone castles and along with numerous private farms. Each farm with hectare area with quite similar architecture. Houses are built of red bricks or can be called separate villas. It took me a whole week to choose for myself the best place to stay, which is Podere Salicotto’s farm.

I had a very detailed review of this property here , it’s very wonderful, you can also refer to and book via Agoda.com or Booking.com .

The capital of Tuscany is Florence, so it has the largest number of rooms of all types and vary prices as well as making it easy for you to travel to many cities, towns nearby, choose the right day tours to explore beautiful Tuscany. Plus, if you want to try the local experience, it’s also easier to rent an Airbnb in Florence when you’re sharing a house with a local.

But if you like the feeling of waking up in the countryside, Siena is the better choice because the city is small and located among the vast fields of Tuscany.

You can find more, check rates, availability & book for hotels in this city on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Tuscany travel guide: Getting to Tuscany

You should go to Florence first because it offers many choices of hotel rooms and also convenient to travel to its surrounding areas. Florence’s services are also easy to find and relatively inexpensive. Buses can be booked at GoEuro.com and train tickets can be purchased at booths at the central station, choose Treinitali or Italo train.

Take a day tour from Florence

I recommend taking a tour to Siena because the cost is quite cheap but there are many interesting experiences for only 44 euros. In addition, you can book a tour to Cinque Terre to explore the equally wonderful Liguria region.

Tuscany blog: What to buy as a gift in Tuscany?

Florence is very famous for its leather goods, you just go to the ancient bridge, there are many leather goods shop with hundreds of years old to buy. In addition, Chianti red wine is also a popular choice.

Souvenirs such as statue of David or the leaning tower of Pisa are also things that tourists often buy as gifts.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Florence you can refer to

• Duomo Monumental Complex Direct Access Ticket in Florence with Guided Visit
• Florence Duomo, Baptistery, and Museum Tour
• Small Guided Tour with Fast Track Entry to Duomo and the Secret Terraces
• Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour with Balcony & Dome Access
• Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour with Fast Track Entry
• Accademia Gallery Skip-the-Line Ticket in Florence
• Val d’Orcia Tour from Florence
• Pisa Half Day Tour from Florence
• Florence Bike Tour with Food Tasting Experience
• Florence City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (Open Top) and Leonardo da Vinci Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket
• Tuscany Day Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting from Florence
• Rome to Florence Day Tour
• Chianti Afternoon Tour from Florence
• Excursion to Pisa through the Tuscan Countryside from Florence
• Florence Dome Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket + Free Souvenir Old Polaroid Photo
• Florence Accademia Gallery Skip-the-Line Ticket with Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Florence: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Italy travel guide here .

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Our Eight Best Tuscany Travel Tips

Categories Destination Tips , Destinations , Italy , Italy , On a shoestring , Travel Tips

Last Updated on May 15, 2023

Table of Contents

The Eight Best Tuscany Travel Tips

1. fly into cheaper european hubs.

If you travel to Tuscany from the U.S. or from Northern Europe, avoid the temptation to fly right in to Florence. Airlines do not run as many deals to Florence airports as they do to major traffic hubs like Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, three hours form Florence or Milan’s airports which can be reached in under four hours. Car rentals are considerably cheaper from  outlets in major Italian cities than in Florence as well.

You might even consider looking into flights further afield by flying into airport hubs in neighboring countries and then hopping over to Florence, or better still, Pisa with one of Europe’s great no frills airlines. Check flights with Ryanair , Easyjet or Euro Wings .

2. Team up!

3. What about public transportation?

There is plenty of public transportation, and certainly an option, but renting a car affords you the freedom to tour through the various Tuscan villages at your leisure and is easier for day trips. If you can share costs as we recommend above, even bette Since prices at the big car rental companies like Hertz, Budget or Avis looked too high, I checked out different car hire comparison sites. In the end, I booked through Carrentals.com . This is the way we found the best rental car deal through a site we had never used before, Argusrentals.com, for a low-priced Avis rental car.

Public transport definitely has its own set of advantages, however, the first being the cost. Public transport is cheaper than renting a car, and a good majority of Tuscan cities and towns are connected by trains and buses, which leave regularly from main stations and cost only a few Euros for short distances. If you are a solo traveler, or making mostly one way trips through the region, train travel is definitely the cheaper option. If you don’t want to take the train, no worries: there are plenty of organized tours available in Tuscany, for example:

Train travel is very cheap in Italy, if you book in advance online. Book your tickets through the Omio website which has a user-friendly English-language booking system and compares train prices for you. The other option is to buy your ticket at one of the easy ticket machines in the train station, which also have an English speaking menu and discounted tickets for purchases made 2-3 days in advance. Trains from Pisa to Lucca cost €4, from Pisa to Florence €8.90, and from Florence to Poggibonsi (for San Gimignano) are €8.50.

4. Rent a villa –  seriously.

Far from a bling budget-breaker reserved for rappers or movie stars, renting a villa in Tuscany is simply a smart travel choice. Hostels in Italy are expensive, and even a bed in a dorm room will cost €20 – €30 per night. If you are traveling in a group, booking a villa or holiday apartment will work out cheaper every time. Whether you rent a villa or a holiday apartment – your group will have a private, economical stay for as little as €15 per person per night in the low season. In the high season, visitors to Tuscany will have to be ready to shell out more cash, but if you book a villa far enough in advance, you will still pay less than in hotels or even hostels unless you are traveling entirely alone.

Tip: In addition to Airbnb, check out lesser known vacation rental websites, such as Plumguide . You may find a better deal there.

5. Stay away in the summer

6. Drink wine!

That’s right. You can drink bucket-loads of the best Italian wines like Chianti, Montepulciano and Pinot Grigio. These wines are produced locally and are ridiculously affordable, available in stores for between €2-€5 per bottle. So pack your corkscrew and get ready to enjoy inexpensive wines at the beach, on a picnic, or in your villa. Even when eating in a restaurant, a half bottle of house wine costs as little as €2.50, while a full bottle, at up to €6, costs the same as two glasses of beer – so why not!

A great Tuscany travel tip for wine lovers: If you have a car, stop at the wineries around Tuscany, where you can fill up your own containers for €0.50 to €0.75 per liter – larger than the average bottle of wine! For olive oil fans, the same cheap fill-ups can be found in olive orchards throughout Tuscany as well.

7. Cook your meals

Much of the tourism in Tuscany is food-related, and with a bit of hunting you can eat on the cheap, but if you’ve got a kitchen where you are staying, cooking will save you cash. Stop in at the market and pick up great pasta, sauce  and fresh Italian bread (and a lot of that wine we mentioned) and whip up a homemade meal for the whole group for under €10.

8. Find where the locals eat in Tuscany

This advice goes for travel anywhere, but especially in Italy. We had been packing in pizza nearly everyday and had no complaints, regardless where we picked it up. However, when we were exploring Siena, we walked past a hole-in-the-wall with no sign and a line of at least twenty locals – school children in uniform and office workers on their lunch breaks. We snuck in line and picked up two giant slices of the best pizza ever and a drink for $3.50. The same goes for gelato. If you develop a gelato vice like we did, you’ll want to find deals, as it can be a pricey addiction. A cone of gelato near the famous Ponte Vecchio in Florence runs at €3.20, but just a few streets further west, the same portion of creamy gelato goodness costs less than €2 for the same size portion.

9. Drink Espresso, preferably standing up

Known for its coffee culture, Italy has over 110,000 espresso bars and Italians drink over 70 million espressos each year. So immerse yourself in true Italian culture by ordering an espresso, which normally costs €0.55 and is never more than €0.90. You pay the same price for a ‘Macchiato’, an espresso topped with foamed milk, while a cappuccino is usually between €0.90 and €1.10. When you travel to Tuscany, you’ll notice that many espresso bars charge less when you drink your coffee standing at the bar, like the locals do, so forgo table service while you recharge your caffeine levels.

10. Take your time on the road in Tuscany

Unless you are in a major hurry, smart travelers to Tuscany should avoid the Italian highways, called ‘autostradas’. The roads are incredibly well-maintained and efficient, but that comes at a premium. Highway tolls can add up quickly. The one-hour ride between Florence and Lucca costs more than €7, and the four hour trip between Lucca and Milan up to €25 one way! The country roads, on the other hand, are free of charge and many run roughly parallel to the highways. When the roads do twist and turn, you’ll get the chance to pass through lesser known Tuscan villages, and you can stop wherever you want rather than speeding past on the highway.

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Thursday 31st of December 2015

Hi Dani. I plan to travel to Italy alone I am a women.. is it safe for me to do that. I don't have anyone at the moment who wants to go with me. Coming from South-Africa

Tuesday 5th of January 2016

Hi Esmeralda, yes it's very safe! You might get cat calls from some men... the Italians are very fond of women ;-) I was reminded of that on a recent trip to Venice. But they would never harass you. Just beware of pickpockets in larger cities like Florence and Rome. Enjoy Italy!

Saturday 17th of August 2013

Hello ladies! Love your blog! What an awesome adventure you are living. :)

I am planning a girls trip to Tuscany for this fall. Do you have any recommendations for sites to find a good B&B? I've heard that you can stay in farm houses. That would be very cool.

Thanks for any advice you can provide. :)

Friday 23rd of August 2013

Hi Kristy, great to hear from you. Tuscany - yes! Can we come? ;-) We usually use Booking.com for good deal on B&Bs - you can filter and have them just show you B&Bs for the destination of your choice. Hostelbookers.com also has B&Bs in their listings, not only hostels (you can also filter your search by accommodation category and pick 'guesthouse') BedandBreakfast.com is probably the best-known site for B&Bs, we used it a few times in England and I think they also have lots of properties in Italy. You might also want to try Agriturismo.it, a site for all the agriturismos (vacationing in farm house resorts) - there are some quite good deals for them in the off-season and they are usually in fantastic countryside locations (considering you have a rental car), and since you mention you'd like to stay in farm houses, that might be the right site for you :) Enjoy your trip to Italy!

Wednesday 27th of March 2013

Love your tips! I've ever been told that as budget traveller, think and act most like locals. Stay with locals, eat like locals, use transportation like locals. Thanks for sharing!

Regards. http://www.jakpost.travel/

Tuesday 2nd of October 2012

Hi! I am planning to celebrate my 50th birthday, this time next year, by traveling on a shoestring to Rome and Tuscany. It will be my first trip to Italy and I am highly inclined to do it as a solo adventure. I'd be grateful for any tips, especially regarding lodging.

Wednesday 3rd of October 2012

Hi Denise, thanks a lot for getting in touch! Well, these tips here in this post are good start for Tuscany, and for the cheapest options for lodging we recommend looking into B&Bs. There are some really cute Bed & Breakfasts in all of the pretty Tuscan towns which are usually much cheaper than hotels. We also use websites like Bookingbuddy.com to find cheap hotels - the site basically compares all the major hotel booking websites for you and finds the best deals for your dates - and most hotels always run promotions on Expedia, Booking.com, etc, which they don't offer on their own website. If you are planning to see Italy on public transport, we recommend booking tickets directly on http://www.trenitalia.com/ (they have an English site) and in advance - it'll save you a lot of money. If you plan to rent a car (which makes traveling around Tuscany MUCH easier) we usually also use BookingBuddy for car rentals and let them compare all the different providers, but last time we were in Italy we found ArgusCarHire.com to have the cheapest offers. I hope this helps a bit and please feel free to get in touch again if you have more questions - enjoy your big Italy adventure next year!

Sally Stretton

Saturday 1st of September 2012

I would love to visit Tuscany one day. I appreciate the advice about which airports offer the cheapest flights. I think I am going to try to get a group of friends at work together for a trip during our fall or spring break. Perhaps if I get enough people on board and find a great deal, my portion might be little or nothing!!

Tuscany Travel Guide: Tuscany itinerary & things to do

Explore our Tuscany travel guide to plan your best Tuscany itinerary ever ! Winalist gives you the essential steps to have the best weekend, week, or longer vacation in Tuscany.

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Every year, thousands of travelers from around the globe are captivated by Tuscany’s allure; located just north of Rome in center-west Italy.

A hub for agriculture and fashion industries, it is also deeply rooted in a remarkable cultural/political history – making it essential to any voyage through Italy. Unsurprisingly, its provincial capital Florence draws many visitors with its incredible Renaissance art and architecture!

Tuscany is brimming with some of the world’s most renowned art, such as Michelangelo’s David and works by Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli.

Additionally, famous authors like Machiavelli or Catherine de Medici have all greatly contributed to Tuscany’s current importance in literature and art. Even Fra Angelico had a hand in preserving its historic significance!

Home to an array of spectacular natural wonders, Tuscany will take your breath away with its diverse geography. From the beaches on Elba Island to the Apennines mountain range and from olive groves to vineyards in Chianti Valley – every inch of this beautiful region is a sight for sore eyes.

The most picturesque way to make your way around it all would be by taking Chiantigiana (or SR 222) road which connects Florence and Siena through acres upon acres of famous DOCG producing Chianti Classico vineyards.

In order to visit and enjoy this region as it should be, we have put together a little travel guide for an unforgettable weekend in Tuscany! On the program: cultural visits, moments of relaxation, many culinary specialties and unusual wine tourism experiences to practice with the winegrowers of the region.

Tuscany travel guide Day 1: Florence

To start off our Tuscany travel guide, it is essential to visit Florence, one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. To do this, go to Caffe Rosano to take a coffee or tea with you and head to the Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore .

This Gothic cathedral, built in 1296 and consecrated in 1436, can accommodate up to 20,000 people and offers breathtaking views of the city from the top of its 463 steps.

Take a break to enjoy one of the traditional dishes from Florence: lampredotto. Known as the street food in this beautiful city, it’s made up of thinly sliced tripe cooked with court-bouillon. If you’re not a fan of bread (which is rare for French people), they can also serve it on its own plate! The best place to get your hands on some delicious lampredotto is at Da Nerbone at Mercato Centrale .

Continue your journey by visiting the Bargello Palace, once home to a prison. Inside its walls lies an untouched museum filled with works of art from some of history’s greatest minds; including Donatello’s bronze sculpture ‘David’ and Michelangelo’s very first piece – the Bacchus statue. Despite its beauty, it often goes unnoticed by travelers which gives you all the more opportunity to admire these amazing pieces in peace.

To end your day in Florence on our Tuscany travel guide , we invite you to go to the south of the city, to Prato, to the Tenuta di Capezzana Estate . The winegrowers will introduce you to the estate and give you a guided tour of the rose garden, the old cellar and the oil mill. In order to discover the wine specialties of the region, a tasting of two wines will be offered to you.

On other option is to head to the fabulous Villa Travignoli , one of the 150 most antique enterprises in Italy.

Tuscany travel guide day 2: Pisa

For the second day of your weekend in Tuscany, leave early in the morning for Pisa, a city with exceptional charm.

Very well known for its famous tower, Pisa has other assets such as its wine-growing lands. On your journey between Florence and Pisa, stop at Villa Cosmiana to discover the secrets of good Italian wine production. The winegrowers of the Domaine will guide you to the cellars, the vineyards but will also take you on a tour of their organic farm and their kitchen! You can have lunch at the estate.

First essential stop on Winalist’s Tuscany travel guide’s second city: go to the Tower of Pisa . Leaning at an angle of 3.59 degrees to the south, this tower was built at the beginning of the year 1173 and its construction spanned two centuries. Indeed, in 1178, the tower began to lean following the addition of a third floor and construction was then interrupted for 90 years.

You can then go to the Battistero di San Giovanni, or the Baptistery of Saint John, which is the largest baptistery in Italy with its 55 meters high. This historical monument unites two different architectures: Romanesque and Gothic.

In a style very different from what is given to see in Italy, meet in front of the Church of Sant’Antonio Abate to do an introspection of its facades. On one of them, you will come across the “Tuttomondo” mural painted in 1989 by American artist Keith Haring.

This work represents global harmony and the thirty characters present each offer a different aspect of peace in the world. You will see a woman holding a child in her arms to represent motherhood or two men lifting a dolphin and thus representing the relationship of man with nature.

After this cultural getaway, we invite you to recharge your batteries in the Migliarino – San Rossore – Massaciuccoli natural park . Inaugurated in 1979, this park consists of a lake and covers approximately 24,000 hectares along the coast. We find there fish, turtles but also 250 species of birds. The natural park includes the Massaciuccoli marsh as well as the remains of the ancient Pisan forest.

End of the Tuscany travel guide

Before bidding farewell to the splendid Italian countryside, last in our Tuscany travel guide is the village of Chianti and the rolling hills between Florence and Siena.

The views are majestic in this part of Tuscany, earning its reputation as Tuscany’s “true heart”. It is also renowned for a red wine of the same name that has become globally popular. What better way to celebrate your Tuscan weekend than with an indulgent Chianti tasting?

End your weekend in Tuscany in style by visiting the winery Barone Ricasoli , the largest winery in the Chianti Classico area.

When traveling through the Tuscan villages, be sure to visit an Italian winemaker for a glass of Chianti – you won’t regret it!

If you’re looking for an extended stay in Tuscany, make sure to explore the diverse and stunning cities that this region has to offer. From their culture and beauty, to their wine-growing skills – there’s something here for everyone! Our partners on Winalist provide some of the best winetourism experiences around, so don’t miss out!

Did you have the false impression that navigating the Chianti wine route would be a straight line or circular journey? Contrary to what you may think, it will take some zigzagging through winding roads of Tuscany. Not to worry though – your efforts won’t go unrewarded! Stunning views of nature and quaint medieval towns await as you sip on exquisite samples of Chianti wines. So don’t forget to bring your camera with you!

Visit Chiantigiana and be inspired by the many historic towns along your journey. For a truly unique experience, take some time to visit several of the local vineyards too – most are open for visitors but make sure to check first! This is an opportunity you won’t want to miss out on.

Thanks for reading our Tuscany travel guide – we are sure it’ll help you plan the best Tuscany wine trip!

Just in case you’re visiting other cities or  wineries in Italy  during your vacation to Italy, Winalist has you covered.

Tuscany Travel Guide FAQs

What are the most beautiful villages in tuscany.

– San Gimignano – Fosdinovo – Monteriggioni – Montalcino – Pitigliano – Cortona – Montepulciano – Volterra

What to taste in Tuscany?

Other quality products are renowned, all over the world. In the Valla dell’Orcia, in Pienza, the best Pecorino PDO Toscano is produced (the ancient sheep’s cheese that is found in all regions and especially in Sardinia). Many establishments in the surrounding countryside offer tastings. The Pienzasolp company, for example, produces, in addition to the classic Tuscan pecorino, ricotta, caciotte and jams to spread on cheese. For those with a sweet tooth, there is the “Chocolate Valley“: a valley that includes Pisa, Pistoia and Prato, renowned for the production of chocolate and a new way of looking at its consumption. For the visit, it is the De Bondt laboratory: a small artisanal company located in the historic center of Pisa which produces a very varied range of flavored chocolates. And then there is the olive oil of course! The PGI Extra Virgin Olive Oil consortium has 11,000 companies. Castagneto Carducci, located about 60 km from Livorno, is considered one of the towns of oil: a feast for the tasting takes place every January.

When is the best time to visit Tuscany?

The best month to visit Tuscany, Italy, is April: the beginning of spring offers a gorgeous weather and kicks off the beginning of the tourist season. Many hotels that close during the winter, reopen in spring for the Easter season. You’ll be immersed in Italian festivities for the Holy Week, Liberation Day on April 25 and the Flower festivals in May,

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How to plan an epic Tuscany road trip | Guide + Itinerary + Map

Occupying an area of more than 23,000 square kilometers, Tuscany is the absolute gem of Italy. Apart from its stunning landscape, Tuscany has a long artistic and historical tradition. That’s the area where the Italian Renaissance was born, and as you’ll see in this article, its impact is still visible throughout Europe. Therefore, if you’re about to plan a Tuscany road trip , there are plenty of places to add to your itinerary: a combination of world-famous works of art, stunning nature, and Chianti wine tastings should be part of your Italian journey.

After traveling extensively around Tuscany, I decided to share everything I know about the most prominent Italian region. In this guide, you will find the must-see Tuscany locations and the best places to base yourself while traveling around the area. Moreover, I’ll share hidden gems to enrich your road trip to Tuscany and add a suggested itinerary for a fuller experience. Last but not least, at the bottom of this post, you’ll find a separate section with Tuscany travel tips and answers to the most commonly asked questions.

So, let’s start with the Tuscany road trip itinerary. Simply navigate through the sections of this article and find everything you need to know before visiting the region.

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*Some links are affiliate links. It means that if you buy something, I might earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Tuscany road trip: how to reach the region

Tuscany has two international airports: the Americo Vespucci in Florence and the Galileo Galilei in Pisa . While both airports receive a fair amount of traffic, when planning your Tuscany road trip, it’s also a good idea to check for flights to Bologna’s airport. Despite not being technically in Tuscany, the Guglielmo Marconi airport in Bologna is the biggest in the area. Bologna is just an hour’s drive from Florence, and most air carriers fly directly there.

That said, before booking your flight to Tuscany, check all three airports for flights from your hometown. Moreover, in Bologna, you can usually find more competitive prices for car rentals. Apart from its proximity to Tuscany, Bologna is a stunning city that is assumed to be one of Italy’s culinary capitals ( see my guide to the best food tours in town ). So, Bologna will be a great option if you arrive after a long flight to Italy and need to stretch before starting your road trip to Tuscany.

Regarding the cheapest flights to Tuscany , the best option is to head to Kiwi and compare prices. Whenever I’m about to fly anywhere, I always check Kiwi to find the cheapest fares available. Make a comparison and decide which of the three airports you’ll fly to.

Car rentals in Tuscany: where to find the best fares for your road trip

Ideally, your road trip to Tuscany should start the moment you land in Italy. Therefore, after booking your plane tickets, you should try to pick up a car at the airport on arrival. Apart from not having to deal with public transport the moment you land in a foreign country, you’ll also be able to start your Italian road trip straight. Therefore, it’s better to pre-book a car that awaits you at the airport instead of searching for one upon arrival.

Now, here’s another Tuscany travel tip : if, for example, you find cheap flights from your hometown to Florence, but it’s cheaper to fly back home from Pisa, most car rentals in Italy offer you the option to return the car to another airport . Of course, this comes at an extra cost; however, it’s usually much cheaper than the airfare difference.

I always use Rental Cars for booking a car abroad. The company belongs to Booking.com , and it’s the best aggregator for car rentals. Their powerful search engine will compare the prices of local and international car rentals. In addition, you can select your pick-up and drop-off locations, the timeframe, and several other things like insurance, the number of drivers, etc.

Find the best prices for renting a car in Italy here .

Tuscany road trip: the must-sees

After booking your flight tickets and your car, it’s time to start planning your road trip to Tuscany. While the number of days will define the amount of sightseeing you can do, there are some places you simply can’t miss. For example, it’ll be a different journey if you have one week in Tuscany instead of two weeks. However, I recommend at least 5 days in Tuscany to see the most important locations.

Before starting with the Tuscany must-see places, I’d like to add a note. I’m a fan of slow traveling , which means I always prefer a less action-packed itinerary. In general, I always think that it’s nice to have breathing space when traveling, and immersing in the local culture is a must. Therefore, I’d rather sacrifice a place and enjoy the moment. The selection you’ll see below is based on that travel attitude of mine. Straight after this section, you’ll also find a bunch of other places to include in your itinerary.

Let’s start.

No journey to Tuscany (or Italy) is complete without a visit to Florence . The cradle of the Renaissance is one of the most legendary cities in the world, and you simply can’t miss it if you’re on a road trip around Tuscany. The stunning Italian city is an open-air museum, and you’ll see incredible architecture and art with every step you take. World-famous art institutions like the Uffizi Gallery or the Galleria dell’ Accademia can occupy you for hours. On the other hand, the Duomo of Florence and the Ponte Vecchio are iconic spots full of history and odd tales.

I can’t imagine a road trip to Tuscany without spending a couple of days in Florence. It’s up to you to decide if you’ll spend some days in Florence at the beginning or the end of your Italian journey. However, walking the streets of Florence and coming across art masterpieces is something unmissable.

My Florence guides & resources

I wrote several separate posts about Florence. In the first one, you can read various facts about Florence  and find the best boutique hotels in the city. In the second post, I wrote down the best art tours in Florence with their prices . Finally, you can also find a very thorough guide about the best Tuscany wine tours from Florence to enjoy top-class Chianti wines.

Since Florence attracts millions of visitors annually, booking your museum tickets in advance is always recommended. Moreover, a guided tour will save you time because you’ll skip the line and learn more about what you see from a registered tour guide. Check both articles and plan your Florence itinerary.

Florence tip : If you can only visit one museum in Florence, this should be the Uffizi Gallery. However, the queues are long, and you shouldn’t miss travel time. Pre-book your Uffizi ticket here and skip the line .

If you have a thing for medieval cities, Siena won’t let you down. Apart from its undeniable architectural beauty, Siena is also an excellent base for further exploring Tuscany . Located in the region’s heart, the walled city of Siena has a fantastic atmosphere, and walking through its cobblestone streets feels like a journey through time. The iconic Piazza del Campo is Siena’s main square and the broadest spot you’ll find in town. That’s where the locals gather, and if you want to blend in with the locals, the so-called il Campo is the place to be.

Besides its beauty, Siena is one of the best spots to discover the famous Chianti wine region. Dozens of wineries are located nearby, and joining a wine tour will be an unforgettable experience. The beautiful Tuscan landscape hosts bigger and smaller wineries, and drinking Chianti wine in the region it’s produced is one of the must-do things in Tuscany.

My Siena resources

As mentioned in the previous lines, Siena is a perfect base for further exploring the Chianti wine region and joining wine tours and tastings. I wrote a comprehensive guide about the best wine tours from Siena . If you feel like leaving your car for some hours and having somebody drive you to the best wineries in the region, this guide will help you discover the best wine experiences in Chianti.

Moreover, since the city’s historical center is a ZTL Zone , you should think twice before parking your car. To avoid fines and unwanted vacation stress, I wrote a separate article about the things you need to keep in mind when visiting Siena with a car. You can find my article about how to visit Siena with a car here . You’ll also see a list of hotels with private parking.

Siena tip : If you use Siena as your base, you might miss some of its highlights. There’s a fantastic Siena walking tour that will take you to the city’s highlight. Moreover, you’ll get to the city’s stunning Cathedral without queueing. Book this fantastic Siena walking tour here .

San Gimignano

One of the best places to see in Tuscany is definitely San Gimignano . This Tuscan gem is located halfway between Siena and Florence, and it’s one of the most picturesque towns you’ll come across on your Tuscany road trip. Known as The Town of Fine Towers or even Medieval Manhattan, San Gimignano is famous for its stunning architecture. Fourteen medieval towers occupy its skyline, and a couple of them are converted into hotels.

The number of San Gimignano towers might sound insignificant; however, once upon a time, it had 72. For a town that compact, the number is really impressive. While you won’t need more than a couple of hours in San Gimignano, I highly recommend spending at least one night there. Most people visit San Gimignano on a day trip and depart late in the afternoon. However, after the daytrippers are gone, the small Tuscan town becomes quiet, and wandering through the narrow streets at night is an unforgettable experience.

My San Gimignano guide

San Gimignano significantly impacted me, and it was definitely one of the highlights of my road trip to Tuscany. I wrote a thorough travel guide about the town, including the best things to do, some great places to eat and drink, and the best hotels. You can read here my San Gimignano travel guide .

San Gimignano travel tip : How about spending a night in one of San Gimignano’s towers? The Torre Salvucci offers accommodation in a 12th-century tower in the town’s heart. Book your room at Torre Salvucci here .

Being one of the most famous Etruscan cities, a civilization that flourished centuries ago in this part of Italy, Arezzo is nowadays one of the must-see Italian cities. The city has a population of almost 100,000 people, but it feels more compact. Exactly like Siena, Arezzo is a beautiful walled city, and its most famous spot is the stunning Piazza Grande . The biggest square in the city was featured in the famous Roberto Benini movie La Vita è Bella , and it hosts an art bazaar on the first Sunday of every month.

Located just 80 km (50 mi) from Florence, Arezzo is home to various notable churches. Even if you are non-religious, visiting a couple of Arezzo churches is a must due to the Renaissance masterpieces they host. The most famous of all is the Basilica of San Francesco, which is built in Tuscan Gothic style, and you can see up close an iconic Pierro della Francesca “History of the True Cross” fresco.

My Arezzo guide

Arezzo feels quieter than Florence and Siena; however, it’s an excellent base for discovering this part of Tuscany, and there are plenty of things to see. I wrote a travel guide to Arezzo, where you’ll find the must-see attractions and the best hotels in the city. You can read here my guide to Arezzo, Italy .

Arezzo tip : Italian cuisine is famous worldwide. Don’t miss the chance to dine with a local when visiting Arezzo. Meet your host, buy groceries together, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal at your host’s place. Book a dinner with a local in Arezzo here .

Last but not least, here’s one of the hidden gems of Tuscany. Pienza appears to be a sleepy little town with less than 2,000 inhabitants. Its picturesque yet humble style might make you think it doesn’t deserve to spend time here. However, Pienza is one of the ideal cities of the Renaissance and among the most important locations in Tuscany.

While the Palazzo Piccolomini and the Duomo will magnetize your eyes, Pienza’s urban planning actually made the little town famous worldwide. The concept of the ideal city was first introduced in Pienza, and it’s a cornerstone element of most modern cities. Taking a humanistic approach to architecture is a Renaissance concept. In brief, that’s an attempt to encompass moral and spiritual aspects in urban structures. Geometric patterns are at the heart of ideal cities, and making cities a place where people can thrive is the concept’s soul.

My Pienza travel guide

Despite its small size, Pienza is one of the must-sees when driving around Tuscany. Apart from encompassing various Renaissance ideas, the town is beautiful beyond words. While you can see Pienza in an hour, spending a night here will add a special touch to your Tuscan journey. You can read my Pienza travel guide to discover more about Tuscany’s hidden gem.

Pienza tip : The Palazzo Piccolomini is a must-see for your visit to Pienza, and it hosts (probably) the first roof garden of the Renaissance. Pre-book your entry ticket at Palazzo Piccolomini here  and skip the line.

Tuscany road trip: other places to add to your itinerary

While the above places can be your bases while visiting Tuscany, there are plenty of other locations to add to your road trip itinerary. Driving between any two cities mentioned above and towns will bring you to picturesque villages that deserve a stop. The Tuscan landscape is stunning, and part of your road trip to Tuscany will be about enjoying nature.

Therefore, in this section of this Tuscany travel guide , you’ll find a bunch of places to add to your itinerary. Depending on which side of Tuscany you want to explore, some of these places can be great bases for further exploring the area.

Montepulciano

Just 13 km (8 miles) out of Pienza, you will come across the small town of Montepulciano . Renowned for its famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano red wine , the small city is a great addition to your Tuscany road trip itinerary. Its car-free city center makes it a great option for strolling around, and its beautiful buildings will definitely make it to your camera roll. Despite its size, Montepulciano attracts thousands of visitors, and if you happen to stop here, make sure to taste (at least) one glass of its famous red wine.

Settled since Etruscan times and a few kilometers west of Pienza, Montalcino is one of the most beautiful towns in Val d’Orcia. Montalcino’s poetic name most likely derives from an oak tree that once occupied the area. Today, Montalcino is one of the most beloved Tuscany stop-overs due to the tremendous views of the Asso Valley. A stop at Montalcino will expose you to views that resemble impressionistic paintings, and it’s better to stop by late in the afternoon and enjoy a fantastic sunset.

There’s a great possibility to begin or end your Tuscany road trip itinerary in Pisa . The city is famous for the Leaning Tower , and it’s one of the biggest cities in Tuscany. I didn’t add Pisa in the Tuscany must-sees in the previous section because the city didn’t meet my expectations apart from the Leaning Tower. I probably had high hopes, which is why I think it’s better to stop over in Pisa and not spend days there. However, save a day for the city if you have a flight to or from Pisa. Pisa has its moments, and the Leaning Tower is definitely something to see and photograph.

Volterra is one more walled city in Tuscany, enjoying great views and featuring a history that dates back to the 8th century BC. The famous Piazza dei Priori is one of the finest examples of Tuscan squares, and the Roman Theater of Volterra is one of the best-preserved Italian theaters. Volterra is an excellent addition to your Tuscany itinerary if you are in San Gimignano and planning to travel west toward the coast.

On the other hand, if you are close to Arezzo and want to see more of this side of Tuscany, a stop at Cortona is recommended. Occupied and extended by the Etruscans, Cortona is famous for its stunning medieval architecture and steep, narrow streets. The city walls the Etruscan built are still intact in some places, and the small city has some incredible viewpoints of Valdichiana.

Tuscany road trip map

In this section of the travel guide, you can see a map for your road trip to Tuscany . As you can see above, the itinerary starts and finishes in Florence. Apparently, if you land in Bologna, you can drive to Florence (it takes an hour) and start your trip. On the other hand, if you land in Pisa, you can start from there and drive around the region.

Travel Tip : Click on the star on the map’s black banner and save it to your Google Maps account. You can retrieve it anytime and check the locations. The map will appear in Google Maps under “Saved” –> “Maps.”

Suggested itinerary for your road trip to Tuscany

As I already wrote, the number of available days will define what you’ll see and do in Tuscany . In general, if you have less than 5 days in Tuscany, you won’t easily see everything unless you drive all day. If you only have two or three days in the region, choose a few places depending on your interests and try to combine a bigger city (like Florence) and a couple of small towns (like San Gimignano and Montepulciano).

The Tuscany route on the above map is roughly 500 km (310 miles) , and driving time should be anything between 8 and 10 hours in total. Therefore, on a 5-day road trip , you’ll need to drive approximately two hours per day; obviously, if you have two days, you’ll practically have to drive the best part of the day.

That said, the Tuscany itinerary you saw above works best if you have 7 days in Tuscany . A week in Italy’s most famous region will give you a relaxing time, and you won’t have to be on the road continuously. There will be enough time for relaxing, enjoying, or even changing plans and visiting the X place that a local said is worth seeing. Of course, if you have more time -like ten days or even two weeks in Tuscany- you can further stretch the itinerary and drive to places on the region’s coast, like Livorno.

So, let’s now see the route.

Road trip to Tuscany: Detailed Itinerary

A one-week Tuscany road trip:

Day 1 . Start from Florence and dedicate the day to the city’s various museums and sightseeing. Spend the night in Florence.

Day 2 . If there’s any Florence sightseeing left, do it early in the morning. Then, take your car and drive to Arezzo . Explore the beautiful Etruscan city and decide if you’d like to stay there or if you’re up for a small town. If you decide on the latter, drive to nearby Cortona and spend the night there.

Day 3 . After breakfast, drive towards Montepulciano . Explore the picturesque town and taste some wine. After lunch, start driving towards Pienza , the ideal city of the Renaissance. I suggest spending the night here and exploring both the town and the stunning Val d’Orcia.

Day 4 . Leave Pienza behind and drive to Montalcino . This small town is a great option for sightseeing and lunch breaks. Then, go to Siena and explore one of Europe’s most iconic medieval cities. Spend the night here and have dinner around Piazza del Campo.

Day 5 . Today is all about wine tasting and exploring the Chianti region . Siena is an excellent base for going on wine tastings, and if you feel like skipping the car, you can join a guided tour (see the top wine tastings from Siena here ). After the tour’s conclusion, take your car and drive to San Gimignano . Explore the town of medieval towers and spend the night here.

Day 6 . After breakfast, get in your car and drive to Pisa . The Leaning Tower awaits you, and after strolling around the city, consider visiting nearby Lucca . If you don’t have an early flight the next day from Florence or Bologna, spend the night in Pisa. Otherwise, drive to the city of departure.

Day 7 . Assuming you’re still in Pisa (or Lucca), stroll around town and head to the city of departure. If that’s Florence, well, there’s always something to see in Florence before heading to the airport.

Travel tips for your road trip to Tuscany

Before heading to the final section of this travel guide to Tuscany, I thought of adding a couple of tips for your journey. Feel free to keep these things in mind for a fuller Tuscany experience.

Skip the highways . Although it’s inevitable to drive sometimes on the motorway, Tuscany’s beauty is on the smaller roads. Highways are a great shortcut when you’re in a rush, but you’ll miss the region’s stunning nature. Therefore, whenever possible, don’t take the fastest way: instead, try to avoid it and immerse yourself in Tuscany’s landscape.

Save some coins for the toll roads . In case you find yourself driving on the motorway, make sure to have some coins with you. You’ll have to pay for using Italian highways, and although they accept cards, sometimes it’s good to have some cash. My card wasn’t accepted once, resulting in a long queue.

Don’t park in city centers . Most cities and towns in Tuscany have dedicated parking lots outside the walls. Park your car there, and don’t risk getting a fine for illegal parking. You’ll pay per hour of use, and usually, a daily money limit can’t be exceeded. In San Gimignano, for example, you can’t pay more than 15 euros per day, although the parking costs 2 euros per hour. Don’t risk a fine.

Rent a small car . Unless you’re more than 4 people traveling, don’t rent a big car. Tuscany’s streets are small, and the roads are in fairly good condition. You won’t need a big car to drive around Tuscany; it’ll be more of a hassle to drive through the narrow streets -let alone park it.

If worried, buy full car insurance . Full car insurance comes at an extra cost, but it’ll give you peace of mind. It is available in every rental, covering everything that might happen to your car -even scratches. On Rental Cars , you can see the added cost in the final step. It’s usually a small amount, like 5 or 10 euros per day, depending on the car.

Embrace spontaneity . Apart from this Tuscany travel guide, you will probably read several other guides. While it’s important to be well-prepared for your road trip, I always suggest being spontaneous. If a village’s name sounds tempting, visit it. Or, if you feel like skipping driving for the day and prefer enjoying nature, do it. The best moments of your road trip will be the carefree ones.

Book your museum tickets in advance . That’s the only thing you can’t be spontaneous in Tuscany. Everyone wants to see stunning art or go on day trips in the region. Therefore, everything sells out fast. If you don’t want to queue for half a day in Uffizi (I did), it’s better to be on the safe side. Websites like GetYourGuide can smoothen the process. Visit the website, add the attraction’s name, and check the skip-the-line options.

Google Maps (or GPS) is your Tuscan friend . Before starting your road trip to Tuscany, make sure to download the map of Tuscany from Google. The region has plenty of tiny streets, and you might often be confused. Moreover, even if you enable roaming, it doesn’t mean you’ll have an internet connection everywhere. If your car doesn’t have a GPS installed, make sure to have the map on your smartphone.

Tuscany road trip FAQ

In the final section of this long travel guide to Tuscany , you’ll find some of the most frequently asked questions about the region. Consider the answers as extra travel tips for your road trip. If you have more questions, please add them in the comments section below, and I’ll do my best to reply.

So, here’s the Tuscany FAQ.

How many days do you need for Tuscany?

You will need at least 5 days to see Tuscany . You can only see parts of the region if you have fewer days. On the other hand, if you have one or two weeks in Tuscany, you can see smaller villages.

What is the best month to visit Tuscany?

September and October are the best months to visit Tuscany. The weather is still warm, and it’s pure joy to drive around. May to mid-June is also a good timeframe to visit the region.

On the other hand, July and August tend to be hot, and the area is crowded. If you have the option, it’s better to avoid these months.

How long does it take to drive through Tuscany?

This largely depends on your Tuscany itinerary. You’ll have to drive approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles) to see most places in Tuscany. Apparently, if you want to add tiny villages to your itinerary, you might need to drive ~800-1000 kilometers (~495-620 miles).

Is it difficult to drive around Tuscany?

Definitely not. The road network is in good condition. However, the regional roads tend to be small, and you can’t speed up: apart from being dangerous, you’ll also risk a fine. Plus, you’ll visit Tuscany to enjoy the landscape; there’s no reason to rush.

Use common sense when driving, and you’ll have a great time.

Is a car necessary in Tuscany?

Renting a car in Tuscany will give you flexibility. However, it’s possible to see most places (especially the famous ones) with public transport or guided tours. You can even hire a driver to take you around . That’s obviously a costly option, but if you can afford it, it’s a great option to make the most of your Italian trip without a car.

How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites does Tuscany have?

Tuscany is home to 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites . These are:

• The historic center of Florence.
• Val d’Orcia.
• Pisa’s Square of Miracles.
• The San Gimignano historic center.
• Medici villas.
• Montecatini Terme.
• Siena’s historic center.

What is the ZTL?

The ZTL is a controlled zone in Italy , usually in and around the city center. It practically means that non-residents are not allowed to drive or park. However, don’t think that they won’t see you: police cameras will photograph your license plates. Therefore, if you see a ZTL zone, avoid driving or parking.

Is Tuscany expensive?

Tuscany is relatively expensive . This isn’t a surprise since it’s Italy’s most famous region -and among the most famous worldwide. You should expect elevated costs on everything: from food to accommodation and from museum fees to car rentals. However, the quality of services somehow balances the costs. It won’t be easy to visit Tuscany on a budget, especially if you want to see everything. Therefore, budget accordingly and be prepared to spend some extra cash.

What is the best town in Tuscany?

Florence . The so-called cradle of the Renaissance is undoubtedly Tuscany’s most important city. If you have more than 6-7 days in Tuscany, I recommend spending as much time as possible in Florence. The city is an architectural gem and a place to see Renaissance art.

What’s the best place to base yourself in Tuscany?

If you prefer to stay in the same city every night and go on day trips, your best options are Florence and Siena . Siena is more conveniently located in the center of Tuscany. On the other hand, Florence is in Tuscany’s northern part, making it a good base if you plan to explore this side of Italy.

Where is the circle of cypresses in Tuscany?

One of the most Instagrammable places in Tuscany is the so-called circle of cypresses. You’ll find it at San Quirico d’Orcia, one of the most beloved spots for drone photography. See the San Quirico d’Orcia cypresses on Google Maps .

Is Chianti wine sweet or dry?

Chianti wine is dry . Specifically, the world-famous Chianti Classico is a dry red wine produced in Tuscany.

Plan a road trip to Tuscany: conclusion

Most international travelers daydream about a road trip to Tuscany, and that’s understandable. The region is known for its iconic art and stunning landscapes, and together with the divine Chianti wine, it ranks among the top places to see in Europe. Embarking on a road trip to Tuscany means immersing yourself in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

My final advice is to travel slowly around Tuscany and set yourself in a relaxing mood. As a rule of thumb, it’s better to miss one or two places and enjoy the time. To travel to Tuscany means to enjoy everything it offers: wine, food, landscape, and art. Don’t do it fast; make it count.

More about Tuscany : My Florence Travelogue

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Last Updated on January 27, 2024 by George Pavlopoulos

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Indeed the era we know as the Renaissance, which played so large a role in forming the culture not just of Italy but of Europe as a whole, is associated more strongly with this part of the country than with anywhere else.

Florence was the most active centre of the Renaissance, flourishing principally through the all-powerful patronage of the Medici dynasty.

Every eminent artistic figure from Giotto onwards – Masaccio, Brunelleschi, Alberti, Donatello, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo – is represented here, in an unrivalled gathering of churches, galleries and museums.

Siena, one of the great medieval cities of Europe, remains almost perfectly preserved, and holds superb works of art in its religious and secular buildings.

In addition, its beautiful Campo – the central, scallop-shaped market square – is the scene of the Palio, when bareback horseriders career around the cobbles amid an extravagant display of pageantry.

The cities of Pisa and Lucca have their own fair share of attractions and provide convenient entry points to the region, either by air or along the coastal rail route from Genoa .

Arezzo and Cortona serve as fine introductions to Tuscany if you’re approaching from the south ( Rome ) or east ( Perugia ).

RoughGuides tip: Planning a trip to Italy? Check our itineraries and perhaps our local experts in Italy can help you!

San Miniato town panoramic view © Shutterstock

Asciano with Val d'Orcia © Shutterstock

From falling in love with Florence to truffle hunting in the Tuscan hills, there’s plenty to do in Tuscany. These are the highlights.

#1 Climb the dome of Brunelleschi’s Duomo in Florence

Stepping out for the first time in Florence , it’s almost impossible not to gravitate straight towards the square in the centre, the beating heart of Florence, Piazza del Duomo.

You’ll be beckoned by the iconic form of Brunelleschi’s extraordinary dome, which dominates the cityscape in a way unmatched by any architectural creation in any other Italian city.

Yet even though the magnitude of the Duomo is apparent from a distance, and even though you may have seen it in a thousand photos, the first full sight of the church and adjacent Baptistry still comes as a jolt.

The colours of their patterned exteriors are a startling contrast to the dun-coloured buildings around them.

#2 Spend at least half a day exploring The Uffizi, Florence

Attracting well over two million visitors a year, the Galleria degli Uffizi is the most visited museum in Florence and even in all of Italy. In housed in what were once government offices (uffizi) built by Vasari for Cosimo I in 1560.

After Vasari’s death, work on the building was continued by Buontalenti, who was asked by Francesco I to glaze the upper storey so that it could house his art collection.

Each of the succeeding Medici added to the family’s trove of art treasures, which was preserved for public inspection by the last member of the family, Anna Maria Lodovica.

Her will specified that it should be left to the people of Florence and never be allowed to leave the city.

Considered to be the finest art collection in Italy, the three-floor gallery also contains the world's greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art.

Uffizi art gallery in Florence, Tuscany, Italy © Shutterstock

#3 Tour the wineries of Chianti

Drinking local wine is one of the best things to do in Italy, and the Chianti vineyards between Siena and Florence produce some of the country's finest wines thanks to a mild climate year-round.

Chianti scenery is stunning too so it's also the perfect place to gaze at typically romantic Tuscan views.

Hotels in Chianti are rarely inexpensive, but this is prime agriturismo territory, with scores of farms offering rooms or apartments (or even self-contained mini-villas).

The venue for Chianti’s biggest wine fair (the Rassegna del Chianti Classico, usually held in early September), Greve in Chianti is a thriving mercantile town where there’s wine for sale on every street.

​​Well-heeled Castellina in Chianti formerly stood on the front line of the continual wars between Florence and Siena, and its walls and fortress bear testimony to an embattled past.

The best of Chianti lies east of Castellina and the Chiantigiana, in the less domesticated terrain of the Monti del Chianti.

Vineyard in Chianti © Shutterstock

#4 Take that photo at the Leaning Tower, Pisa

For many tourists, Pisa means just one thing – the Leaning Tower, which serves around the world as a shorthand image for Italy.

It is indeed a freakishly beautiful building, a sight whose impact no amount of prior knowledge can blunt.

Yet it is just a single component of Pisa’s breathtaking Campo dei Miracoli, or Field of Miracles, where the Duomo, Baptistry and Camposanto complete a dazzling architectural ensemble.

These amazing buildings belong to Pisa’s Golden Age, from the 11th to the 13th centuries, when the city was one of the maritime powers of the Mediterranean.

It has to be said that visiting the Campo dei Miracoli in high season is not a calming experience – the tourist maelstrom here can be fierce.

Within a short radius, however, Pisa takes on a quite different character, because very few tourists bother to venture far from the shadow of the Leaning Tower.

Visiting the leaning tower in Pisa Italy is one best things to do in Tuscany © Shutterstock

#5 Ride a bike along Lucca’s city walls

Lucca has some of Europe's finest Romanesque buildings and it's an easy city to explore.

While the focus of Lucca’s compact centro storico is the vast Piazza Napoleone, its social heart is Piazza San Michele just to the north.

Once the site of the Roman forum, these days this lively square is fringed with shops and cafés.

The “long thread”, Via Fillungo, heads northeast, cutting through Lucca’s shopping district to reach the extraordinary circular Piazza Anfiteatro.

Further east, beyond the Fosso (“ditch”), lies San Francesco and Lucca’s major art museum, housed in the Villa Guinigi.

Whatever else you do, be sure to walk – or cycle – at least some of the city walls, which are crested by a broad, tree-lined promenade.

The entire circuit is four kilometres round and lined with trees. If you want to avoid crowds, visit in the mid-afternoon.

View over Italian town Lucca with typical terracotta roofs © Shutterstock

#6 Get swept up in the thrilling Siena Palio

The Siena Palio is a twice-yearly bareback horse race around the Piazza del Campo in Siena .

One of Italy’s most spectacular events, it is preceded by weeks of preparation, medieval pageantry and chicanery.

Only 10 of the 17 contrade (neighbourhoods), chosen by lot, take part in any one race; horses, too, are assigned at random.

The only rule is that riders cannot interfere with each other’s reins.

Otherwise, anything goes. Each contrada has a traditional rival, and ensuring that it loses is as important as winning oneself.

Jockeys may be bribed to throw the race or whip a rival or a rival’s horse; contrade have been known to drug horses and even to ambush a jockey on his way to the race.

Held since at least the 13th century, the race originally followed a circuit through the town.

Since the 16th century it has consisted of three laps of the Campo, around a track covered with sand and padded with mattresses to minimise injuries.

Siena Palio in Tuscany © Shutterstock

#7 Hunt for truffles in the countryside

Tuscany is well known for truffles and truffle hunting.

But one of the best things to do in Tuscany if you want to hunt down the biggest variety of the much-prized fungi is to go to San Miniato.

You'll find this famous truffle town strategically placed on top of three small hills overlooking the lower Arno Valley, between Pisa and Florence.

#8 Eat your way through the Tuscan menu

Tuscan cooking is all about the freshest ingredients, cooked simply, and has had a seminal influence on Italian cuisine.

Classic antipasti are peasant fare: bruschetta is stale bread, toasted and dressed with oil and garlic; crostini is toast and pâté.

Tuscan menus always include soup, often ribollita, a hearty stew of vegetables, beans and bread, or zuppa di farro, a thick soup with spelt.

Tuscany is not known for pasta, but many towns in the south serve pici, thick, hand-rolled spaghetti with toasted breadcrumbs.

Meat is kept plain, often grilled, and Florentines profess to liking nothing better than a good bistecca alla fiorentina (chargrilled steak), or the rustic dish of arista (roast pork loin stuffed with rosemary and garlic).

Spinach is often married with ricotta and gnocchi, and used as a pasta filling, in crespoline (pancakes) or on focaccia.

Sheep’s milk pecorino is the most widespread cheese, but Chianti’s marzolino is the most famous.

Panino and wine, I Fratellini, Via dei Cimatori, Florence, Tuscany © Shutterstock

# 9 Explore Elba, Napoleon’s island of exile

Elba has exceptionally clear water, fine sand beaches, and a wooded interior that’s superb for walking.

Almost everyone comes for the beach resorts, so the inland villages remain largely quiet even in high season.

The principal town, Portoferraio, makes a worthwhile day-trip from the mainland. At the highest point of the old quarter sits Napoleon’s residence-in-exile, the Villa dei Mulini.

The isolated village of Marciana is the oldest settlement and most alluring spot on Elba.

Its steep old quarter is a delight of alleys, arches, belvederes and stone stairs festooned with flowers.

Marciana’s main draw is 500m south – a cable car that climbs to the summit of Monte Capanne, Elba’s highest point.

No fewer than 156 beaches dot Elba’s coast, from little-visited shingly coves to broad white sand stretches.

If you don’t mind negotiating the ranks of baking bodies in summer, they offer all the facilities you could wish for.

View of Portoferraio on Elba Island, Italy © Shutterstock

# 10 Hike and swim along Italy’s last protected coastline

The Tuscan shoreline is at its best in the Maremma region, most notably in hilly Monti dell’Uccellina, 12km south of Grosseto.

Monti dell’Uccellina is recognised as the last virgin coastal landscape to survive on the Italian peninsula, and is therefore protected as the Parco Regionale della Maremma.

This breathtaking piece of countryside combines cliffs, coastal marsh, macchia, forest-covered hills, pristine beaches and beautiful stands of umbrella pine, and remains devoid of the bars, marinas, hotels and half-finished houses that have destroyed much of the Italian littoral.

The best beach here (20 minutes from Pratini, along the Strada degli Olivi) is a beautifully unspoilt, curved bay, backed by lush greenery.

The park authorities have defined half a dozen different walking itineraries; some set off from Alberese – home to the visitor centre – with the remainder leaving from Pratini, 10km into the hills, reached via hourly shuttle bus from the visitor centre.

A wild beach in the south of Tuscany © Shutterstock

With its captivating landscapes, rich history, and world-class cuisine, Tuscany beckons travelers to explore its picturesque wonders and indulge in unforgettable experiences. From charming agriturismos nestled amidst vineyards to luxurious villas perched atop rolling hills, the region offers a diverse array of best places to stay that perfectly complement the enchanting essence of Tuscany.

Florence (Firenze)

Florence has many hotels but demand is almost limitless, which means that prices are high and the tourist inundation has few slack spots.

“Low season” is defined by most hotels as meaning mid-July to the end of August (the weeks during which nearly all Italians head for the beaches or the mountains), and from mid-Nov to mid-March, except for the Christmas and New Year period.

Between March and October, booking ahead is in effect obligatory.

Boutique hotels and B&Bs have sprung up all over the city, operating under several different labels: places calling themselves relais or a residenza d’epoca are generally smart B&Bs, often located in historic palazzi.

From handsome old townhouses to reasonably-priced hotels (you'll pay more for accommodation closer to the Campo), Pisa has a range of hotels , even if most people visit on a day trip.

Siena is small enough that every hotel within the old walls is within a 15min walk of the main sights.

Anyone visiting in summer should reserve accommodation as far in advance as possible; hotels are specially booked up at Palio time (early July & mid-August) when they charge higher prices.

You’ll also be glad of air conditioning in the summer heat.

• San Gimignano

San Gimignano has too many visitors and too few locals. Hotels can be hit or miss. From tasteful mid-range hotels to lovely eighteenth-century farmhouses, there's enough to go around . Camping is also an option.

The choice is limited here , but there is a youth hostel housed in a converted monastery, a couple of smart hotels, plus camping options too.

Browse the places to stay in Tuscany.

City postcard view and towers of San Gimignano © Shutterstock

Navigating the idyllic landscapes of Tuscany is a seamless delight, as this enchanting region provides an array of convenient and delightful transportation options to traverse its picturesque countryside and historic towns.

Much of Tuscany's remarkable countryside requires a car as it allows you the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.

Note that many historic centres have a Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL), a limited traffic zone which won't allow you to drive through.

The buses in Tuscany are affordable and extensive. The region offers a reasonably comprehensive bus service, including the corse rapide (express) service between Florence and Siena.

Validate your ticket as you get on the bus to avoid the risk of an on-the-spot fine.

Tuscany's rail network provides convenient connections to several captivating cities. High-speed trains link Florence, Arezzo, Cortona, Grosseto, Livorno, and Pisa. Slower regionale (regional) trains can be useful and cheap too.

To really get to know Tuscany, allocate at least five to seven days in the region. That gives you a couple of days to explore Florence, plus day trips to Siena and Pisa.

There will also be time to venture to a charming hill town or two, such as San Gimignano, Volterra, or Montepulciano.

Aim for 10 days if you want to indulge in a wine-tasting experience in the renowned Chianti region, or embark on scenic drives through the rolling Tuscan countryside.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Check our Italy itineraries or talk to our Italy travel experts .

Midsummer in central Italy is not as pleasant an experience as you might imagine: the heat in the summer months can be stifling. From May to September the big tourist hotspots of Florence, Siena and San Gimingnano are too crowded to be really enjoyable.

If it’s at all possible, avoid August, when the majority of Italians take their holidays. This means that some restaurants and hotels close, and the beaches are jam packed.

The best time to visit Tuscany is before Easter or in the late autumn. The main towns are quieter then and the countryside is blossoming or going into harvest season.

The best time to see the fields of sunflowers bloom in Tuscany is in June or July. Winter is often quite rainy, and temperatures can drop, particularly in the hill-towns. This does, however, make it a good time to visit all the cities and major art trails.

Tuscany is perfect in August but don't miss our tips about the best time to visit Italy.

Landscape vineyard fog in Tuscany © Shutterstock

Tuscany beckons travelers from across Europe with its two main gateways: Pisa International Airport and Florence Airport. Both airports are well-connected to the wider region.

For those arriving in northern Italy, Milan is the major rail hub. The city serves as a gateway to Tuscany, welcoming European services from various destinations.

From Milan, you can easily catch onward connections to Florence and Pisa.

Buses offer an affordable overland option to Italy but are less frequent and notably slower than the train.

Find out the best ways to get to Italy .

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Tuscany Travel Guide: 10 Epic Stops for Adventure Lovers!

Blog , Italy / July 17, 2023 by David & Cayleigh / Leave a Comment

Tuscany, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is a dream destination in Italy. From exploring medieval towns to soaking in hidden hot springs, this region offers an array of unforgettable experiences. In this travel guide, we will highlight ten epic stops in Tuscany that will captivate the hearts of adventure lovers.

Nestled between the Apennine Mountains to the north and the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west, Tuscany boasts a diverse landscape that ranges from rolling hills and vineyards to picturesque coastal areas. This Tuscany travel guide showcases Italy’s rich history, captivating landscapes, and renowned cuisine.

While travelling through Tuscany via public transport is possible, we highly recommend renting a vehicle. This allows much more flexibility and can help you avoid crowds at popular places. Depending on where you begin, the easiest cities to rent vehicles in are Florence and Rome.

Looking for the best places to stay in Tuscany? You can find all of our favourites here!

Visitors typically spend anywhere from 5 days to 2 weeks in this area. Depending on your travel style and how many stops you would like to make, we think 7-10 days is just right.

Without further ado, let’s get into the best Tuscany travel guide for adventure lovers!

  For access to our entire 86-page Italy Travel Guide, click here!

timeline: 1-3 days

Florence was one of our favourite cities in all of Italy and a can’t miss stop in Tuscany. Here, you can immerse yourself in Renaissance art and architecture as you visit iconic landmarks such as the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery. We spent our days exploring the narrow streets, visiting local markets, and indulging in delicious Tuscan cuisine.

Here are a few places to add to your Florence itinerary:

• Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (AKA The Duomo): The most photographed square in Florence. Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
• Ponte Vecchio: A historic bridge lined with shops and vendors.
• Osteria Antica Casa Torre : Go early to get a table outside in the cobblestone square and order the pesto pasta, truffle ravioli or the filet with truffle.
• The square near Fontana del Porcellino : A great marketplace to shop for leather, clothing, souvenirs, etc.
• My Sugar: The best gelato we had in Italy!
• All’antico Vinaio : A famous sandwich shop that will likely be lined up down the street. We promise it’s worth the wait!
• If you are looking for a place to stay, take a look at this VRBO. The location was fantastic and the view from the balcony is unbeatable.

Saturnia Hot Springs

Timeline: 2-3 hours.

Located in the Maremma region, Saturnia’s natural hot springs offer a unique and rejuvenating experience. Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters and enjoy the therapeutic benefits amidst a picturesque setting.

These hot springs are accessible 24/7 for free which we LOVED. There are several small hotels and guesthouses near the hot springs. If you would like to beat the crowds we would highly recommend staying at one and visiting for sunrise.

*By booking accommodation through our tailored maps + links, you support us at no additional cost to you. We appreciate you!*

NOTE: These springs are home to several small red worms that freak a lot of people out. After doing some research, we discovered that they are completely harmless larvae that are native to the area. They weren’t terrible when we visited in October, but the amount of them can vary depending on the time of year.

Monteriggioni

Timeline: 2-4 hours.

Step back in time as you visit the medieval fortress town of Monteriggioni. Encircled by ancient walls, this perfectly preserved village offers panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.

You do not need a ton of time here as it only takes a few hours to fully explore the town. This includes grabbing a gelato, walking the walls, and exploring the narrow streets. If you have a drone, Monteriggioni looks great from the sky!

Val d’Orcia

Timeline: 6 hours- 1 day.

The picturesque Val d’Orcia is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its rolling hills, rows of cypress trees, and charming medieval villages. The landscapes here have inspired countless artists and photographers. Embark on a scenic drive or bike ride through the region, stopping at iconic locations like:

• Podere Belvedere
• Punto Panoramico Sulla Val D’Orcia
• Viale di Cipressi
• Cipressi di Monticchiello

timeline: 1-2 days

You can’t visit Tuscany without exploring the famous region of Chianti. Embark on a cycling or hiking tour through the rolling vineyards, visit local wineries, and savour the world-famous Chianti Classico. This region also offers opportunities for horseback riding, allowing you to immerse yourself in the enchanting Tuscan countryside.

If you have a car, you can explore the vineyards on your own. Reservations are recommended. If you would prefer a ride, there are several excellent wine tours from Florence and other towns in the area.

Bagni San Filippo

If you found Saturnia Hot Springs to be crowded and overly touristy, you will love the local vibe at Bagni San Filippo. This thermal spring is more like a hot spring river with cascading white limestone formations along its banks. There is a small hike to get here but once you arrive you can enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding forest.

TIP: There are several different pools along the river. We hiked past the first few areas where everyone was swimming and had a beautiful little spot all to ourselves!

Elba Island

For adventure lovers seeking a coastal retreat, Elba Island offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and natural beauty. Dive into crystal-clear waters, explore underwater caves, and hike along scenic coastal trails. With its rich maritime history and beautiful beaches, Elba Island is an ideal destination for water sports and exploration.

Some highlights of the island are:

• Portoferraio
• Mount Cappane
• Terranera Beach
• Reale Beach
• Barbarossa Beach

Montepulciano

Timeline: 4-8 hours.

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Montepulciano is a captivating hilltop town that we really enjoyed. You can visit multiple wineries while wandering the streets surrounded by stunning Renaissance architecture and panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.

The town is famous for its Vino Nobile, a robust red wine that is deeply rooted in the local culture. If you’re looking to break up the tastings, there are also several fantastic restaurants in Montepulciano.

Monte Forato

Timeline: 6-10 hours.

For thrill-seekers and hiking enthusiasts, Monte Forato is a must-visit destination. Located in the Apuan Alps, this mountain features a natural rock arch with breathtaking views. There are three different routes you can take to reach the top, one of which is a Via Ferrata. This area is relatively under-explored and therefore takes a bit of extra time to navigate. We would only recommend it for experienced hikers and those looking to get off the beaten path.

Cinque Terre

Timeline: 3-4 days.

While technically outside Tuscany’s borders, I could not leave Cinque Terre off this list! It is an unmissable adventure for those travelling through the region. These five colourful fishing villages perched along the rugged coastline offer stunning coastal hikes, picturesque beaches, cliffside vineyards and delicious seafood.

Cinque Terre is one of my all-time favourite places in Italy. Every view looks like a painting and there is so much culture it’s astounding. For more information on Cinque Terre and a 3-day itinerary, see the blog post below.

Cinque Terre Itinerary: 3 Days in The Most Charming Place in Italy!

We hope you enjoy your time in Italy. Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have or comment below with your favourite stop on this Tuscany travel guide. We would love to hear from you!

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Tuscany: 6 Essential Travel Tips For You

If by some sort of divine punishment I was forced to spend my vacations in Italy for the rest of my life – well, I guess I wouldn’t curse my gods, for first. But most importantly, I would, hands down, go to Tuscany every single time. Not to offend the rest of this precious country, or my boyfriend, who keeps selling me Sicily as the best place on earth. Tuscany is just way better than your best match on Tinder, realer than any real deal: Tuscany has the whole package. Graced with birth that took place only a few hours by car from this gorgeous region, I’ve been traveling back and forth to it only to discover something new each time. Today, I’ll share with you some of those precious tips I’d like to tell my younger self. This won’t be an extensive travel guide on Tuscany – but save that wish for later days, who knows! -, but a list of useful heads up for whoever is planning a trip there. So, dear digital nomad, or aspiring remote worker, or random fellow on the web, here’s a tale of sunny hills and smart solutions just for you.

1. Rent that damn car

I feel very passionate about Italian public transportation, in all the wrong ways. I know the neighbors’ grass always looks greener, but boy oh boy, whether a train will arrive on time or not poses a tougher question than the chicken and the egg dilemma. If you follow the most touristic paths, you’ll find ongoing buses for sure. However, Tuscany is a land that just begs for your explorer soul. Renting your own car will allow you to get off the beaten path in the most fashionable way. Just picture this: the sun is setting, green pastures surround you as far as the eye can see, and you drive off to a little town on top of a hill; you lower your car window, and the scarf around your head flies out of it. And if this Fellini-like scenery does not convince you, just know that reaching any countryside location without a car is difficult, if not impossible. That applies not only to Tuscany, but to the entire country. But truth be told, only a fool would miss out on all the chances that the freedom of owning a car ensures. I’m so sure on this one, that even if I were on a tight budget, I’d spend it all on a car and even sleep inside it if I can’t afford a room anymore. A 4 wheels aid means parking in front of a beach in the morning, riding through the hills in the afternoon, heading to the city center in the evening with 0 hassles. Tuscany truly has it all, and much of it lies outside of the major city centers. You all need to trust me on this one. So when you do consider renting a car, know that it’s easier than you think; but there are a few key points to note down.

• You need to be at least 18 to drive in Italy
• Don’t drive your car straight into historical city centers! The heart of big cities such as Florence, Pisa or Siena are ZTL, aka Limited Traffic Zones, and if you’re not a resident you’ll get a huge fine!
• Remember that most people drive manual in Italy, so if you’re not familiar with it, make sure to notify the rental company and book an automatic car

2. Get a pair of good shoes

Remember that scarf that flew out of your car window? Well, how are you supposed to chase it with a pair of crocs? For real though, while you’re packing your pj up, don’t forget your most comfortable, resistant, one of a kind pair of shoes. We’ve talked before about the importance of comfortable, good quality clothes in your DN’s life  – and for any kind of traveler, in fairness. Tuscany is known for its thousands of hiking trails , upwards paths through the greenery, long beaches. Even the famous via Francigena cuts through Tuscany, with hundreds of pilgrims walking it all year through. Now, you don’t necessarily need to embark on this physical and spiritual pilgrimage while there, but you really don’t want to skip the breathtaking hikes around the region. You’ll easily find yourself lost in an olive orchard, breathing in the sea breeze or reaching the top of a hill to top it all with a fine session of wine tasting. You might want to invest in versatile shoes, something that lets you climb the Crete Senesi, but also dig into the sand. Many beautiful beaches are reachable only through wild vegetation, by stepping through bushes and burning sand. The prize is worth it, but you don’t want to get to the water with your feet cooked. You should have seen me that one time I jumped from one shadow to the next one to make it to the sea. Quite a show, I’d say.

3. Out of the green, into the digital: Florence

Tuscany is the perfect spot for an out of the concrete jungle and into the wild retreat indeed. But a digital nomad can never stay offline for too long. Out of the many big cities in the region, like Pisa, Florence and Siena, Florence still remains on top of the list for any kind of online business you need to carry on. With pretty coworking spaces , as well as cute cafés , this city will work out the best as your main homebase. Not to mention the energetic vibe that fuels this city both day and night! In a place so full of history and art, it’s to be expected. Hone your artistic or culinary skills with a good workshop , or meet enthusiastic expats to sip a Negroni and enjoy a bountiful aperitivo in good company. Florence is full of foreigners and nomads, as well as welcoming locals. For the spiciest nightlife, head to the neighborhood of Santa Croce neighborhood of Santa Croce , or to Santo Spirito square .

4. Summer in Tuscany, a big no no

Listen, you can love the sun, and the heat, and the tan as much as you want. You can have as many friends as you like telling you how wonderful summer vacations in Italy are. And this statement is true, for the main part. But if you’re planning a trip to Tuscany in summer, especially to the major cities, you’ll get royally screwed. True, the water will be warmer, and your butt won’t suffer too much that first dip into the sea. Yet, the entire region will be literally infested by tourists, and sweaty armpits don’t match well with high humidity. I promise you, you won’t be able to walk that far or that easily around the cities. The sun will turn the ground into flames, you’ll be chilling on the squares like a sausage on a grill. It won’t be much better out on the hills: touristic tours swarm throughout the vineyards, and that green peaceful paradise will sound much more like a buzzing outdoor market. The period between May and June, and the whole month of September, are definitely the best moments for a visit.

5. That tacky Italian phrasebook will come in handy

As we mentioned, Tuscany prides itself on all its hidden corners. But the more you get off the beaten track, the more people are going to think you’re casting a spell whenever you speak. If you’ve been to Italy before, this doesn’t come as a surprise. As long as you stay on the tourist track, English is more than A-okay. But out in the countryside, you won’t find too many locals speaking anything more than Italian or regional dialect. However, locals tend to be pretty welcoming in Italy, and even more if you make a little effort with that charming “Buongiorno!”. I still suggest that you bring a little phrasebook, just in case you get a bit lost through the hills: a local may not speak your language, but remember that us Italians are n.1 champions in hand gestures.

 6. Don’t shy away from that misfit island

I told you, the whole package thing is real. Tuscany has the most amazing islands. More often than not, people are only aware of Elba – and if you brushed your history book quite recently, you know why. Obviously, all of them 7 islands of the Tuscan Arcipelago are worth visiting; but you can understand why people would want to spend a vacation where Napoleon did. (Sort of a vacation, but that’s on technicalities). Don’t get me wrong, I see their reasons: it’s big and beautiful and filled with historical significance. Yet, the Isola del Giglio – literally, Lily island, how cute is that! – holds a special place in my heart to this day. This island has never been too touristy as far as I remember; and sadly, its name has gained international visibility after the tragic accident in 2012 . Regardless, this island is a gem: small, cozy, its houses rising on clear waters. It’s the perfect location for all you nomads longing for an unforgettable dive. If you can get your hands on a moped, I suggest that you visit all the three settlements of the island, visit the castle, and then vegetate in those emerald waters.

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Tuscany in 10 Minutes

Download a Free Travel Guide for the Perfect First Trip

You can get to know Tuscany in 10 minutes : Download our compact eGuide to the best sights and shopping, flavours, festivals, daytrips and more. Ten minutes is all you need to read this Tuscany travel guide on your iPad, smartphone, laptop or any other PDF compatible device. Just fill in the short form to receive your free Tuscany travel guide . No strings attached.

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Discover the best of Tuscany, plan your perfect itinerary. At Tuscany Now & More we have welcomed guests to our Tuscany villas for almost three decades. We know this region’s villages and hiking trails; the best food and museums, vineyards and spas; and many of its artisans by name. We created our short Tuscany travel guide to give you a taste of what goes into the best Tuscany vacations.

What else is inside your free Tuscany Travel Guide?

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Tuscany Travel Guide

Since 1998, we at To Tuscany have been working hard to become experts in our field. In writing this travel guide, we intend to serve as the best possible online resource for anyone wishing to discover this extraordinary place. Tuscany is found in central Italy, and is beloved around the world for its magnificent landscapes, medieval hilltop towns, and exquisite food and wine. As well as its outstanding natural beauty and internationally renowned cuisine, the region is also the home of Renaissance art and the ancient Etruscan civilisation. Whether you’re feeling lazy or active, thrifty or extravagant, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also provide advice on navigating between the towns, villages and villas, and recommend the best transport and culinary services according to our team of specialists. Come and discover a new way of life.

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TUSCANY TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: Experience Florence, Pisa, and Lucca like a Local; Perfect Companion for First Time Visitors and Explorers in the Heart of Italy (Travel The World Like a Local) Kindle Edition

My Visit to Tuscany was something I could never forget. Florence was exactly as I had heard and seen on TV and in magazines. The Hype around it made me think it may fall short, but No, I was fully mesmerized by it. Everything was perfect, not only in Florence, but the whole Tuscany region. It was an awesome trip.

Now, just picture yourself walking through the ancient Mura di Lucca, where each step along the historic walls offers panoramic views of both the city and the Tuscan landscape. Or The Great Bargello National Museum and Uffizi Gallery where renaissance and art were redefined. These are the geniuses that represent the city’s grand architecture.

Ready to experience Tuscany in 2024? Look no further than this definitive guide to one of Italy's most cherished regions! Explore significant landmarks, immerse yourself in the rich history and art, and uncover the hidden gems that make Tuscany a treasure chest awaiting discovery. Whether you're sipping a bold red under the Tuscan sun, cycling through cypress-lined byways, or feasting on local specialties that sing of the land's bounty, every moment promises to be an experience to remember.

With this guidebook in hand, you'll have all the insights you need to navigate Tuscany's varied landscapes and locales. From seasoned travelers to those embarking on their first Italian adventure, let your curiosity lead you through a journey marked by extraordinary sights, profound tastes, and unforgettable encounters.

Inside the Tuscany Travel Guide 2024:

• Expert tips for avoiding the crowds and experiencing the authentic local scene.
• Essential advice for navigating the charming yet challenging Tuscan terrain.
• Most Suitable Transport options for first-timers.
• Safety strategies to ensure a worry-free exploration of Italy's rural and urban wonders.
• Comprehensive Passport and Visa Information to prevent hassles.
• Packing essentials tailored to both the rolling hills and historic towns.
• Handpicked accommodations that promise memorable stays.
• Comprehensive itineraries that balance famous sights with hidden corners.
• A curated suggestion on Tuscany’s best eats, and best drinks from street-side trattorias to vineyard feasts.
• Cultural insights and festival highlights that offer a deeper understanding of Tuscan life.
• Sustainable travel practices to help preserve the beauty and integrity of the region.

Plus, I included digital maps to help you navigate the scenic routes and city streets with ease, ensuring you make the most of your Tuscan adventure.

Don’t let the opportunity for the trip of a lifetime slip through your fingers. Pick up the Tuscany Travel Guide 2024 today, and prepare to be swept away by the romance, history, and beauty of Tuscany. Embark on a journey that will ignite your spirit and create memories that will last forever!

• Part of series Travel The World Like a Local
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23 Must-Know Italy Travel Tips to Plan Your Dream Trip

D o you constantly think to yourself “I want to go to Italy!” as you scroll through social media looking at colorful cliffside villages and huge plates of pasta on gingham tablecloths? You’re not alone! Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in existence. From visiting big cities like Rome and Milan to the Riviera and countryside of Tuscany, everyone should get the opportunity to take a trip to Italy and experience la dolce vita at least once.

Despite the fact that Italian cuisine and culture are popular around the world, visiting Italy is a completely different ball game. This guide covers all the essential travel tips for Italy you need to know before visiting for the first time so you can avoid common travel mistakes.

It can be a surprisingly conservative country with unexpected own laws and rules. Let’s not even get started on the rules and traditions around food and drink yet! Knowing these basic Italy travel tips will allow you to focus your attention on buying cute leather handbags in Florence or sailing on Lake Como instead.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Italy:

Get an Easy Italy Itinerary

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Italy? This guide does the work for you!

Awesome hotels in Italy

• Rome :  Hotel Artemide
• Venice :  Palazzo Madonna
• Florence :  Hotel Santa Maria Novella
• Amalfi Coast:   Hotel Villa Garden
• Cinque Terre :  Il Sogno di Manarola
• Tuscany :  Agriturismo Farm Stay

Fantastic tours in Italy

• Rome Vespa Tour
• Venice Walking Tour & Gondola Ride
• Tuscany Tour from Florence
• Pompeii with an Archaeologist
• Cinque Terre Boat Cruise

Renting a Car in Italy?

If you want to see the Italian countryside, I recommend you drive yourself. We prefer to use  Rental Cars  and  Expedia Cars .  We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available. Be sure to read these tips for renting a car in Italy .

Book a photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in photos since I’m always behind the camera. We use Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking at this link or using code FAMILYVOYAGE.

1. Northern and Southern Italy are Very Different

Italy wasn’t even a country until 1861 when most of the current 20 regions of Italy were united. 150 years isn’t a long time when you think about it, so each region is still totally different from each other. This variety is part of the fun of traveling to Italy and what keeps tourists returning again and again!

To put things simply, Northern Italy is very different from Southern Italy. Most of the reasons behind this are economic and employment-based, but there are other differences you’ll notice too.

Much of the landscape of Northern Italy is Alpine and lush with lots of vineyards, whereas the south is much hotter and has a stronger Mediterranean vibe. Both areas are worth visiting on your trip to Italy, but your style of travel and interests will dictate the best regions to visit.

2. Consider these Italian Destinations for Your Trip

Let’s dig into some of the most incredible places to visit! If you’ve never visited Italy before, the entire country is your oyster, so this is a breakdown of just some of the most popular Italian travel destinations.

Italian Cities

• Rome – Italy’s iconic capital, you can also visit Vatican City
• Milan – International hub where you can visit Lake Como and Lake Maggiore
• Venice – Storied canal-laden city close to Verona and Lake Garda
• Florence – Heart of the Renaissance where you can take a day trip to Siena
• Naples – Birthplace of pizza and close to Mount Vesuvius
• Cinque Terre – Colorful cliffside villages on the Italian Riviera
• Tuscan Countryside – One of the best wine regions lined with cypress trees
• Italian Alps – Closely resembles Switzerland with lots of winter sports
• Amalfi Coast – Romantic cobblestone villages and beach resorts (pictured above)
• Sicily – Blend of Greece, Spain, and Italy with delicious street food

Check out the Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre if you’re traveling as a couple in the warmer months. Families can head to the major cities with lots of kid-friendly activities and take day trips to the countryside.

Read more: Where To Go In Italy With Kids [& Important Planning Tips]

3. Book Tickets to Popular Tourist Attractions in Advance

If you’re visiting any of the big cities in Italy, this is one Italy travel tip you should take. Most of the top museums, galleries, and landmarks will sell a limited number of tickets with time slots in advance. If you aren’t organized, you will have to line up on the day and potentially wait for an hour or more in the baking hot sun.

These are attractions like the Colosseum in Rome , Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence , and the Vatican Museums in Vatican City . It’s understandable that you don’t want to over plan your vacation, but just having tickets to the must-see attractions will make your trip much more enjoyable.

However, you can’t buy tickets to some of the top free attractions, like the Duomo in Florence and St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, for example. Consider if it’s worth booking a guided tour to skip those lines. For the St. Peter’s in particular it’s a really good idea to book a skip-the-line tour in advance as the wait can stretch on for ages! Check the availability calendar below and be sure to snag your tickets:

There’s one attraction where you will have to buy tickets in advance with no exceptions. There are only a finite amount of people able to see The Last Supper painting by Leonardo Da Vinci in Milan each day. Again, you can book a guided tour if the public sale tickets are sold out – that option will also provide a lot more context to your visit!

4. Expect a Tourist Tax on Accommodation When Visiting Italy

When traveling Italy, you’ll quickly realize that all accommodations have to charge a tax for tourists by law. The amount will depend on the quality of your stay (e.g. hostel or luxury resort), the number of people on your booking, the number of nights, and which Italian city you’re visiting. Yes, this includes short-term rental apartments like Airbnbs!

For example, the tax ranges between €3 to €7 per person, per night in Rome. It normally needs to be paid in cash upon arrival. While it’s not a huge amount, if you’re traveling to Italy on a budget I don’t want you to be surprised! For a family of four spending 10 days in Italy it could easily add up to several hundred dollars.

5. Apartment Rentals and Hotels Will Ask for Copies of Your Passport

It’s normal for tourists to present their international identification (passport) when staying at a hostel or checking into a hotel room. But if you have booked an apartment rental for your trip to Italy, they will also ask for a photo of your passport page. If you have an in-person check-in, they might take a photo of it themselves.

This might seem a little suspicious, but it’s the law! They’re not going to use your passport information for anything other than passing it on to the local authorities.

6. You need to carry your passport with you at all times

Speaking of passports…

While there’s some debate about whether you need to bring your original passport with you rather than a copy, one thing’s for certain: by law, you can be stopped at any time in Italy and asked to show your passport or legal identification issued by your national government – a US drivers license is not sufficient.

Bringing your passport around with you can be nerve-wracking, as there is a risk of pickpocketing in Italy (as in all populated areas). You’ll want to make sure it’s in a secured inner pocket of your day bag. Wear it close to your body in the front, or on your side but with your hand on it at all times. The bag above is great because the inner compartments are secured by both a zipper and a flap.

7. Get an International Driving Permit to Drive in Italy

When planning your epic vacation, you’ll need to figure out how to travel in Italy. Car rental is a great choice, particularly if you have lots of luggage or want to visit remote destinations.

There are a few unique things to consider before renting a car in Italy . Other European countries may not have this requirement, but all non-EU drivers must present an international driving license when hiring from an Italian car rental company. They only cost around $20 and are super easy to get from AAA before you leave home.

You should also ensure you have extensive vehicle and travel insurance before getting a rental car. Narrow, winding Italian roads and reckless Italian drivers can make for a challenging car trip!

We use our Chase Sapphire Reserve for car rentals because it offers great primary insurance (meaning our own insurance wouldn’t get involved in a claim) and doesn’t exclude Italy. There’s also no foreign transaction fee and solid lounge access overseas. If you only have one travel credit card in your wallet, it’s a great choice!

8. Avoid Taxis – Most Italian Cities Are Walkable

It’s totally understandable if you’d rather not navigate the Tuscan rail network after a 10+ hour flight with lots of luggage and multiple kids. That’s what pre-arranged airport transfers are for! Beyond that, opt for public transport or walk so you can avoid taking taxis altogether (if you’re able).

In my experience it can be challenging in some place to hail taxis off the street in many cities, leaving you to order one through your hotel or head to the nearest station for a taxi stand. Uber and other ride-share companies are still in their infancy and the traffic in some cities will make you’d wish you were walking anyway.

One of the best pieces of Italy travel advice is to walk when and where you can. Almost every historic city center in Italy is walkable (wear comfy shoes) and Google Maps will help you get around. You’ll see more side streets, charming churches, and allow for more spontaneous travel experiences.

9. Learn Italy’s Coffee Rules to Avoid a Faux Pas

Wait, you can’t just drink coffee whenever and wherever you like?! You can, but in the spirit of ‘do as the Romans do’, you may want to put down that venti iced latte and assimilate to Italy’s coffee-drinking routine while you’re on vacation.

Generally speaking, Italians drink espresso by default. If you ask for a caffè in a coffee shop, you will be presented with one shot of black coffee. Macchiatos are becoming more and more common, and these are double-shot espressos with a dollop of foamed, hot milk.

For Italians, a cappuccino or other milk-heavy coffee drink is a breakfast drink. They wouldn’t be caught dead ordering one after lunch.

10. Train Travel Is the Best Way to Get Around Italy

One of the best tips for traveling in Italy is to embrace train travel. Italy has an extensive public transport system and despite the odd strike or delay, it is affordable and super easy to understand. We’ve used the train for long-distance legs like Venice to Florence as well as day trips like Florence to Cinque Terre.

There are two main train companies: Trenitalia and Italo Treno, but there are others too. You can find a great explanation and book your tickets here . When traveling Italy between cities on an Italo Treno service, you need to buy your train ticket in advance to get a seat. For regional train tickets, you can buy them at the train station and sit in any free seat. That’s it!

Once upon a time, you needed to validate your ticket at the train station by using a date stamping machine on the platforms, but this is becoming obsolete. Download the Trenitalia app and screenshot your tickets.

Busy train stations might make you feel overwhelmed, but there are always information desks that can help you find your platform.

Read more: How to Travel to Italy on a Budget

11. Bring a Refillable Water Bottle for Drinking Fountains

Put the bottled water back on the shelf and take advantage of the clean, free, and fresh drinking water available in some of Italy’s major cities. One of the top pieces of travel advice for Italy is to bring a reusable water bottle and only drink tap water while on vacation.

Rome is particularly famous for its 2,500 drinking fountains as the Ancient Romans worshipped water like a god. Venice, Verona, Pisa, Florence, Sorrento, Capri, and many other cities have these fountains.

By law, local authorities have to put a sign up if a fountain is not safe to drink. If there’s no sign, there’s no problem!

12. Adapt to Italian Dining and Eating Habits

Aside from not drinking bottled water, there are other eating and dining habits unique to Italy.

Many Italians opt to eat a light breakfast of espresso with a sweet pastry. Traditionally, workers ate their light breakfast while standing at the counter of a coffee shop. One of the top Italy travel tips is that you do the same as it’s such a fun, local experience!

Beyond Italian breakfast, something else that some Italian restaurants do is include a ‘cover charge’ on your bill which is not a mandatory tip like it is in some countries. This extra cost is for fresh bread and sometimes sparkling water for the table. If you don’t want any bread or water, tell your server when they first bring it over.

Some Italians still go to their local market for fruit, vegetables, fish, and meat instead of a supermarket. If you are staying in an apartment and want to make your own food, consider shopping at a local market too.

13. Wear Conservative Clothing When Visiting Churches

You can’t walk two minutes without passing an ornate church in this country, and so many of the top landmarks are churches too. One key Italy travel tip is to pack conservative clothing or keep a light scarf in your backpack for extra coverage as necessary.

Most churches require visitors to cover their chests and shoulders. Exposed knees aren’t usually an issue, but booty shorts are a no-no.

14. Italy Is Not Warm Year-Round – Check the Local Weather

Speaking of clothing, you may need to rethink your wardrobe depending on where and when you are going to Italy. While it’s warm and dry during the summer months, you’d be surprised how cold Italy can get in the north.

One of the top, essential Italy travel tips is to check the weather forecast just before you leave. Pack at least one pair of long pants and a light sweater even if the weather looks warm in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

Read more: What to pack for Italy in Fall

15. Avoid Common Travel Scams in Big Cities in Italy

Every popular tourist destination has its fair share of pickpockets and travel scammers. Watch out for them when walking through a historic city center, like Piazza San Marco in Venice for example, and keep your belongings and valuables secure at all times.

One of the most infamous is the ‘friendship bracelet’ scam. Someone will attempt to tie strings around your wrist and say it is free until it’s knotted and they will ask for payment. Approaching you with a ‘free’ flower and making your partner pay up is another.

Leaving a small cup of change or postcards on the ground for you to accidentally walk across and seek compensation is a popular scam in Florence especially!

16. Public Bathrooms Are Almost Never Free

While public bathrooms are usually plentiful and free in the US, that’s not the case everywhere.

One of the best travel tips for Italy is to make use of cafe and restaurant bathrooms whilst dining. Keep some coins on you if nature calls and you need to use a public bathroom as there is almost always a charge. Even in train stations!

17. Follow These Tips for Choosing the Best Gelaterias

Not all Italian gelato is created equal. These Italy travel tips will help you choose only the best homemade, artificial flavor-free gelato made on the premises.

If the gelato is piled too high in the container, it’s been artificially ‘fluffed up’. Silver containers are a good sign as that’s how it gets transported from the kitchen to the shop. Look for natural colors i.e. pistachio is naturally an olive color and banana gelato should look almost white.

18. Drinking Wine Is Cheap and the House Wine Is Great

Do you love Italian wine? You’re in luck! Italian wine is sold in every restaurant and supermarket in the country. Head to Tuscany if you love Italian red wine and Veneto if you prefer white wine or sparkling.

House wine (known as vino della casa in Italian) doesn’t have the stigma of being the cheapest, worst wine on the menu either. Yes, house wine is still cheap and it’s not the best, but it’s usually either the restaurant’s own label or from a local vineyard. Many Italians will order this vino every time they dine out.

Italian wine is overall much cheaper than it is abroad too. Win-win!

19. Bring a Travel Credit Card and Cash – You’ll Need Both!

One of the essential travel in Italy tips you need to know is about money. Italy uses the euro and it’s a smart idea to carry both travel-friendly credit cards and cash.

What makes a credit card travel-friendly? For starters, be sure there’s no foreign transaction fee – usually you’ll need a card that charges an annual fee to get that critical feature. I recommend one like the Chase Sapphire Reserve that has really good travel insurance and emergency medical coverage. We used it all over the world and never had an issue, and the points we accumulated let us keep traveling longer!

If you usually use American Express, bring an alternative because many Italian vendors won’t accept them. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted by hotels, restaurants, and stores but bring cash for tips, accommodation tax, and other small purchases.

Just don’t carry too much cash – if you get pickpocketed, your travel insurance will only cover so much.

20. Learn Some Basic Italian Phrases When You Visit Italy

You likely already know a couple of Italian words, but these visiting Italy travel tips will clue you up on the basis so you can throw in the odd phrase when chatting to servers and locals:

• Good morning – Buongiorno
• Goodbye – Arrivederci
• Informal Hi/Bye – Ciao
• Please – Per favore
• Thank you – Grazie
• Excuse me – Mi scusi

Just as long as you don’t accidentally say gracias instead of grazie , you’ll be doing better than some! (I admit to making that mistake myself – as a French and Spanish speaker, the languages are so similar that my brain sometimes runs on autopilot.)

21. Dine Away from Piazzas and Eat Regional Italian Food

One of the simplest Italy travel tips is to avoid eating at restaurants in piazzas in big cities.

By all means, order a cocktail and enjoy people-watching. But you’ll find cheaper, better Italian food a block away down a side street or in a residential neighborhood.

22. You Won’t Find Spaghetti Bolognese on Italian Menus

There’s American food, there’s Italian food, and there’s Italian-American food. One of the mind-blowing things to know before traveling to Italy is that many dishes you think were invented in Italy weren’t.

Garlic bread is a type of bruschetta in Italy and not a common one. Bolognese sauce exists, but it’s not usually served with mincemeat like spaghetti bolognese.

And what about pepperoni? If you ask for that in Italy, don’t be surprised to find chopped bell peppers on your pizza.

23. Embrace Italian Culture and Dolce Far Niente

A key piece of advice on traveling to Italy is to just relax. The Italians have a saying, dolce far niente . It means the sweetness of doing nothing.

Leave some room in your trip itinerary to wander without looking at your Maps app or sip a cappuccino at a cafe without looking at your phone.

Essential Italy Travel Tips to Know Before Your Vacation

These travel tips for Italy will help you know what to expect from Italian menus, accommodations, locals, and more so you can feel confident and safe on vacation. Whether you’re hiking Cinque Terre at sunset or eating cannoli in Sicily, you’ll have the time of your life on your summer vacation, Italian style!

Don’t miss these additional resources as you plan your trip to Italy:

• Renting a Car in Italy: La Dolce Vita on Four Wheels
• How to Travel to Italy on a Budget
• Where To Go In Italy With Kids [& Important Planning Tips]
• Fall capsule wardrobe for travel: what to pack for Italy in October

The post 23 Must-Know Italy Travel Tips to Plan Your Dream Trip appeared first on The Family Voyage .

4 travel tips to put your mind at ease during your next trip

The season of summer holiday travel is just around the corner. 

You might find yourself heading to one of the U.S.’s many national parks, exploring a historic European city or jetting off somewhere tropical, like the Maldives.  

That all sounds like fun, but unfortunately, travel mishaps may also happen. Luggage gets lost, passports get misplaced and phones may not work at international destinations when they aren't connected to Wi-Fi.  

To avoid the headaches and prepare for whatever may come your way (or what accidentally gets left behind), follow these simple tips.  

Watch this video to see the four things you should do before your next trip.

Learn more: Best credit cards of 2023

Pre-Travel Tips 

All you need to get travel-ready is your smartphone.

• Take pictures. 

Take pictures and screenshots of the important items and documents before you leave for your trip. 

This would include: 

• Your luggage
• The photo page of your passport
• Your ID cards
• Any travel-related confirmations
• Location and contact details for the places you’re staying

Creating an album on your phone or marking the images as favorites will make it easier to find them should you need them. 

It couldn’t hurt to also share these pictures with a trusted loved one, like a significant other or close friend.

• Turn on Notify When Left Behind

Turn on Notify When Left Behind if you use Apple products.  

The feature, available on some iPhones, iPads, Macs, and AirPods, will notify you if you are separated from your items, like if you forget your AirPods in your hotel room. 

To turn Notify When Left Behind on or off, open the “Find My” app, select the device and then toggle the setting on or off.  

• Tell your credit card company about your plans

Have you ever had your card payment declined when paying for something on a trip? That’s probably because your credit card company is picking up unusual activity and flagging it as suspicious. 

Prevent that from happening by informing your credit card company of any upcoming domestic or international travel by setting a travel notification. 

Many credit card companies allow you to set the notification online or via the app, though some companies may not require one at all. 

• Check international phone plans

If you want to use your phone when you're not connected to Wi-Fi while traveling, see what international phone plans your mobile carrier offers that fit your budget. An international plan will allow you to do things like make and receive phone calls, access social media and find directions as long as you have cell service. Without a plan, those functions will only be available when the device is connected to Wi-Fi.

Bonus tip, you can download maps to use offline and easily navigate a new place!

Reviewed-approved travel recommendations  

Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.    

Reviewed helps you find the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of experts test everything from sleep masks and travel pillows to luggage and packing cubes to help you shop for the best of the best.  

• Tracking game-changer: Apple AirTags  
• Our favorite sleep mask: Mzoo Sleep Eye Mask  
• A top wireless charger: Yootech Wireless Charger   
• Must-have luggage: Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage  
• Organization hack: Amazon Basics 4-Piece Packing Cubes Set  
• The best portable battery pack: Mophie Powerstation Plus   
• Our favorite travel pillow: Cabeau Evolution Classic Travel Neck Pillow  
• Top-rated adult coloring book: Cindy Elsharouni Stress Relieving Adult Coloring Book