tuscany travel ideas

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: July 4, 2023

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

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!

Tuscany itinerary - how to see the best of Tuscany in one week

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

Florence is a must in any Tuscany itinerary

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

Siena is one of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany

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

Tuscany countryside - picturesque hilly Tuscan landscape

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.

San Gimignano is one of the nicest small towns in Tuscany Italy

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 .

The Miracle’s Square and the leaning tower of Pisa in Italy

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.

Guinigi Tower as seen from Torre Delle Ore in Lucca - Tuscany, Italy

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

Tuscany itinerary - Florence as seen from the road to Fiesole

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.

Tuscan countryside in Montaione area - good central location to stay for exploring Tuscany

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.

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Itineraries
7 days in Tuscany

Tuscany in 7 Days

Take a full week to explore.

Tuscany is one of the most beautiful regions in Italy, with medieval villages sitting atop hilltops, rolling hills covered in vineyards producing some of the best wines in the world and farmhouses and villas at the end of cypress-lined lanes. There are many things to see and do in the region, the hard part is really deciding how to fit everything into the days you have at your disposal!

Seven days is right about the perfect amount of time we recommend you dedicate to exploring this beautiful region and a car will be required . As we suggested in our 5 day itinerary for Tuscany , take Florence out of the equation and dedicate one day walking Florence or even two full days . Better yet have a look at our three day itinerary for exploring this exciting city.

Some parts of Tuscany can be reached with public transportation but many of the small villages waiting for you to be explored are not. Ready? Go!

DAY 1: Pisa and Lucca

You do not need a car while in Florence, as everything is walking distance. On your third day, pick up your car rental and head to Pisa in the morning to explore the famous Piazza dei Miracoli , where you'll be able to finally admire the famous Leaning Tower up close. Take time to visit the inside of the Duomo , the baptistery and Camposanto. Here's an idea of what else you can see in Pisa in a day , if you want to spend a little more time exploring this "college" town.

Limited time? Take a tour !

After a nice lunch, head to Lucca for the afternoon. Lucca is a small Venice without water, enclosed within huge Renaissance walls which today have become a park: rent a bicycle to explore and view Lucca from every angle from the added height of the walls. Take a walk through the historical city center , and go see the Duomo , the peculiar oval-shaped Piazza dell'Anfiteatro and climb to the top of the Guinigi tower with its curious centuries old trees at the very top!

DAY 2: Chianti

The area between Florence and Siena is the beautiful Chianti region , famous for its excellent red wine worldwide. Vineyard-covered hills alternate with olive groves, each bend in the road offering a panoramic view of the wine region.

Starting from the north, take the Via Chiantigiana (SS222) and stop in Greve in Chianti to explore its peculiar shaped square and all of the shops in its perimeter. Visit the Wine Museum if you have some time, more for the chance to taste over 200 wine labels of the region than for the farm equipment. Continue along to Panzano in Chianti , stopping to walk along its ancient city streets and take pictures of the hamlet, then on to Castellina in Chianti to walk around the small center and through the city walls.

Wine tasting in this region is obligatory – the difficult part will be deciding where! There are wine shops in each town, but also signs along the road will signal wineries and their shops where you can taste that estate's wines. Stop at any that catches your fancy as this is Chianti Classico DOP region and you cannot go wrong.

Day 3: San Gimignano

From Castellina, cut west toward Poggibonsi to reach San Gimignano , enjoying the drive and incredible views of the countryside on the way, stopping to enjoy the view of San Gimignano's medieval towers before you reach it. Enjoy the rest of the day here, as the majority of visitors leave this beautiful hilltop village as soon as the sun goes down giving you a chance to enjoy a quiet walk through its magical streets and stepping back in time. Make sure to taste the local specialty, the sandy colored Vernaccia of San Gimignano .

We have a more detailed details on the hilltop towns in Chianti if you want more ideas.

DAY 4 & 5: Siena and Monteriggioni

If you step back into the Renaissance as you visit Florence, then Siena takes you back into the Middle Ages. The city center sits on several hills so expect some climbing but it is quite small and the main sights are close: start in the Piazza del Campo , famous for its particular shell shape and for the Palio of Siena , a horse race between the various parts of town run twice every summer on July 2 and August 16. The Palazzo Comunale and Torre del Mangia tower over the Campo , offering an impressive view of the square and the city if you climb all the way to the top.

Head to the Duomo , standing majestically as a precious example of Italian Romanesque-Gothic style and admire the scenes across its pavement, a treasure waiting to be admired! Head back out to visit the Baptistery , crypt and Opera museum to see Duccio Buoninsegna's marvelous Maestà alterpiece from the 14 th century. View our itinerary for a day in Siena for more ideas.

Just outside of Siena, the charming walled castle of Monteriggioni offers another trip into medieval times. The small castle still stands with 15 towers along the walls (although some of them were cut short through the centuries). You can visit the small castle, but don't forget to climb and walk along the massive walls from where you'll admire great views over the Tuscan countryside.

DAY 6: the Val D'Orcia

The Val D'Orcia is another region in Tuscany famous for its stunning landscapes and excellent red wines . Gentle hills, dotted with dark cypresses, red poppies and yellow sunflowers make this region the perfect postcard to send back to friends and families. It offers plenty to see, from the medieval streets of Montepulciano to the smaller picturesque towns of Pienza , San Quirico D'Orcia and Montalcino .

The area is known worldwide for its Brunello di Montalcino and Montepulciano DOC wines , making wine tastings an excellent past time at each stop.

DAY 7: Arezzo and Cortona

On your last day, head east toward the charming city of Arezzo , birth place of brilliant masters Piero della Francesca and Giorgio Vasari .

Visit the Basilica of Saint Francis with the stunning frescoes depicting the Legend of the True Cross by Piero della Francesca , the Church of San Domenico displaying the wooden Crucifix by Cimabue , the magnificent Piazza Grande with is loggias by Vasari and the Archaeological Museum Clinio Mecenate .

The small hilltop city of Cortona south of Arezzo is the perfect stop to end your trip through Tuscany. Cortona is featured in the book and film adaptation of " Under the Tuscan Sun ", coming to symbolize “ la bella vita ” in Tuscany. Its origins go way back to the Etruscans, with one of its main attractions being the Etruscan Academy Museum (MAEC- Museum of Etruscan Academy of Cortona ) displaying important Etruscan and Roman findings unearthed just outside of Cortona. The heart of the town is its Piazza della Repubblica , with the Palazzo Comunale standing tall over the square. The nearby Diocesan Museum displays a beautiful Annunciation of Cortona by the Beato Angelico , if there's time and energy to visit another museum!

Planning your time in Tuscany? If you have any questions or need help in planning your itinerary, just post your questions on our FORUM and we'll be happy to help!

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Itineraries in Tuscany
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Florence in 24 hours, a day in pisa, a day in siena, 2 days in florence, thermal itineraries in tuscany, 3 days in tuscany, top experiences in tuscany, photo gallery.

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.

Outdoor trattoria in a quiant village in Tuscany, Italy

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

The awesome historical center of the medieval and renaissance city on theVal d'Orcia, famous for wine; Tuscany region, province of Siena

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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The Top 10 Places to Go in Tuscany

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

Tuscany , with its spectacular cities, towns, and scenery, is one of Italy's top vacation destinations. Tuscany's many attractions include historic cities , art-filled museums and churches, great wine and food, medieval hill towns, beaches, and beautiful countryside.

Each part of the Tuscany region has its own unique personality. And while it's hard to narrow down a best-of list in an area of travel superlatives, the following are TripSavvy's top 10 places to visit for medieval and Renaissance architecture, gorgeous scenery, and of course, the food and wine.

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Florence, in the heart of Tuscany, is one of Italy's top cities to visit . Florence is an important Renaissance architecture and art center with several excellent museums . Florence's cathedral, or Duomo , with its famous dome and its Baptistery, are architectural wonders that are not to be missed.

Many visitors use Florence as their base for winery tours or day trips to other towns in the region. Visit the Museo Galileo or the Palazzo Strozzi to get a feel for the history and culture of the area.

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Siena is a classic medieval hill town in Tuscany famous for its sizeable fan-shaped piazza, the Piazza del Campo, dominated by its bell tower, the Torre del Mangia.

Siena's annual summer horse race, Il Palio, is about as different from the Kentucky Derby as one can imagine: Bareback riders race the horses along the city's cobblestone streets, keeping with medieval tradition.

Siena's medieval streets are lined with shops and rustic trattoria serving traditional Tuscan cuisine off the main piazza. Find a cozy spot, preferably one filled with Italians, and sample local fare paired with a nice bottle of regional wine.

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

Pisa, in northern Tuscany, is famous for its leaning tower, which all visitors must climb and take an excellent touristy photo with. You'll be in the Piazza Dei Miracoli, where you can admire the cathedral and the baptistery, which date back to the Italian Renaissance.

Besides its tower, Pisa has much more to do and see. To visit its historic Piazza Dei Cavalieri, take a stroll along the Arno River. And before you leave Pisa, try the local delicacy, a chickpea flour bread called cecina.

If you visit Pisa in June, you're in for a treat. That's when the city holds a festival to honor its patron saint San Ranieri during its annual Giugno Pisano.

Lucca is famous for its Renaissance-era wall, which encircles the city, and its cobblestone streets. Walking and bicycling paths and gardens sit atop the wall, allowing visitors to walk entirely around Lucca's historic center.

In addition to being home to several historic cathedrals, Lucca has several well-preserved towers that provide fabulous views of the city and beyond.

Be sure to check out the home of the famous opera composer Giacomo Puccini, which is a popular museum in Lucca. And for authentic regional dishes like tortelli lucchese or zuppa di farro all lucchese, visit one of Lucca's excellent restaurants, such as Buralli or La Buca di Sant'Antonio.

Cortona is the Tuscan hill town made famous by Francis Mayes in her book "Under the Tuscan Sun." Surrounded by 3,000-year-old Etruscan walls, Cortona retains much of its history through its layers of architecture.

Cortona's stately buildings include the Abbazia Farneta and the Chiesa San Francesco. This area has a large American expatriate community, so tourists from the States will find plenty of English speakers.

San Gimignano

San Gimignano, known as the City of Beautiful Towers, is a classic medieval walled hill town famous for its 14 surviving medieval towers. These create a distinctive skyline visible from the surrounding countryside.

Be sure to visit the Museo Estrusco and the historic Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta. For local flavor, try one of the many cinghiale (wild boar) dishes at Cum Quibus or Ristorante San Martino.

Chianti Classico Wine Region

The Chianti Classico wine region lies between the larger cities of Florence and Siena and is a fascinating area to visit. The Chianti region has picturesque villages like Greve and, of course, many fine wineries. Start your wine tasting at Barone Ricasoli Winery and Brolio Castle .

Montepulciano

Montepulciano is yet another walled city in Tuscany, built on a sloping and narrow limestone ridge. Montepulciano has one of the most impressive main squares in Tuscany and has many beautiful Renaissance buildings, including the Chiesa di Sant'Agostino. Visit the Avignonesi or Gattavecchi vineyards or any of Montepulciano's many wineries for a taste of the famed Vino Nobile di Montipulciano. There are also several cantinas in town offering wine tastings and sales and local culinary products.

Pienza and Val D'Orcia

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Pienza, designed to be the ideal city, is a pretty Renaissance town in the Val D'Orcia of Tuscany. Pienza is famous for its pecorino cheese, Piccolomini Palace, and balcony overlooking the beautiful Val D'Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Montecatini Terme

Montecatini Terme, known for its thermal waters, is one of Italy's top spa towns. It has several historic spas and spas with modern equipment for beauty and wellness treatments. Terme Tettuccio is a lavish classic spa with music performances daily during the season, worth a visit to see the Liberty-style architecture.

The town itself is pleasant and relaxed and makes a good base for visiting central and northern Tuscany. A historic funicular railway takes visitors up the hill to the old town of Montecatini Alto .

The Best Places to Stay in Tuscany

The 15 Best Destinations in Italy

Tuscany Guide: Planning Your Trip

Siena Guide: Planning Your Trip

The 15 Best Wineries in Tuscany

Top Florence Day Trips

The 15 Best Things to Do in Tuscany

Italy UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Central Italy

Day Trips From Lucca, Italy

The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome

Where to Go on Italy's Mediterranean Coast

The Most Beautiful Castles in Italy

A Guide to Italy's Wine Regions

The Top 23 Things to Do in Italy

Italian Nativity Displays and Christmas Scenes

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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!

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 .

Your Ultimate Tuscany Road Trip, Planned: Best Itinerary Ideas & Practical Tips

Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Michela

Sun in your face, wind in your hair and the iconic Tuscan countryside all around you: what could be better than a Tuscany road trip ? A trip through Italy’s most famous region is a bucket list item for many and for good reason.

I have been to Tuscany several times (I even lived there for awhile) and I keep going back. Even though it may seem overrated, it really is one of the most beautiful places in Italy and, arguably, the world.

So, if you are getting ready to head off on your own Tuscany road trip, look no further than this practical and inspirational guide with helpful travel tips and, most importantly, the top spots that belong on your itinerary.

Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure !

First things first – how long should a Tuscany road trip be?

Can we just make it forever? Of course, one of the first questions to have a clear answer on is how long you have available to road trip Tuscany.

Maybe it is just one stop on a larger Italy itinerary or it’s the prime focus of your adventure. Honestly, you could make a road trip in Tuscany your whole vacation, there is that much to see.

Ideally, I suggest a Tuscany road trip of 7 to 10 days . This way, you are able to spend at least one night in each of the most beautiful places in Tuscany.

However, you can definitely adapt the itinerary suggestion I have laid out from my experience to fit your needs.

The length of your trip may also depend on what areas you are more interested in seeing

If you are figuring out this road trip on your own and want some personalized help, I got you! If you would like me to create a custom itinerary for you, check out my trip planning services. Or if you just have a question or two, ask me in the comments.

Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary

This itinerary outline highlights the top destinations I recommend you visit and in what order for the most efficient drive.

If your timing allows it, I highly recommend staying even more than 1 night in several of these destinations where I believe there is more to discover! I will highlight what I think these destinations are based on how much there is to do and see in the area. This way you can get a better grasp on what destinations can be done in one day and which ones you may want to extend your trip on.

Day 1 & 2: Florence

A trip to Tuscany is incomplete if you don’t visit Florence. The cultural and artistic capital of Italy, Florence is a place where you could spend weeks and still not see all it has to offer.

Florence is the perfect place to kick off your Tuscany road trip as it is also the most convenient place from which to pick up a rental car/arrive in Tuscany.

Check out my guide to 2 days in Florence for specific ideas and tips on how to enjoy the city.

If you plan on staying in Florence longer and want a few day trip ideas up your sleeve, check out my favorite day trips from Florence .

Day 3: Panzano in Chianti, San Gimignano & Volterra

After picking up your car in Florence, it is time to hit the road!

The first stops are just outside Florence at a maximum of an hour distance.

Pass first through the world-famous wine region of Chianti. If you are a wine connoisseur, you may already want to extend your trip a little to make time for a winery visit.

My favorite small town in the Chianti area is Panzano in Chianti . Here, you will find two amazing restaurants: the Antica Macelleria Cecchini (by famed butcher Dario Cecchini) and a place with an epic view, Ristorante Oltre il Giardino.

The other thing that makes Panzano so special is that it has a middle-of-nowhere feel, just completely surrounded by the rolling hills of vineyards.

Next, head over to the Medieval mecca of San Gimignano . San Gimignano is well-known for the “first skyscrapers”, as it is a town with many towers (insert how many towers in the past) One of my favorite areas is the castle ruins of Rocca di Montestaffoli.

Last but not least, pass through Volterra , another stunning Medieval village at the top of a panoramic hill.

Day 4: Pisa & Lucca

Continue heading west towards one of the world’s most iconic monuments. Arrive in Pisa and make your way through the lively town center to the Piazza del Duomo.

Here you can snap your iconic photo with the Leaning Tower of Pisa !

I personally didn’t find much else to do in Pisa, so I suggest you continue on the road to visit the quieter and charming Lucca .

Lucca is small but holds many treasures! The walled historic center feels like a storybook. Don’t miss walking on the walls, the unique oval-shaped Piazza Anfiteatro and the quirky Torre Guinigi , which has trees growing at the top of it!

Day 5 & 6: Orbetello & Porto Santo Stefano

The next day is a longer drive along an area that is often underrated by tourists: the Tuscan coast !

Because Tuscany is so famous for its iconic countryside landscape, I think many forget that Tuscany also has a huge coastline full of beautiful beaches.

So, if you are interested in seeing this hidden gem side of Tuscany, make your way to the peninsula of Orbetello . This is the area of the Monte Argentario, a place with some of Tuscany’s best beaches, like Feniglia Beach and Cala del Gesso .

Pro tip: If you have the time, I recommend staying at least 2 or 3 days in the area, as the main activity is going to the various beaches. So typically, you would go to a different beach each day.

Day 7: Saturnia & Pitigliano

Continue heading south to the very border of the Tuscany region.

Your first stop is going to be at the once hidden gem, now Instagram famous Saturnia hot springs . These springs are free to visit, in an extremely beautiful setting and they provide a relaxing, skin-nourishing benefit from the natural minerals.

After a bit of relax, head to what is one of my favorite towns in Tuscany. Pitigliano is right at the border of Tuscany and Lazio, so it has a really interesting Roman and Etruscan mixed history.

Moreover, it’s just simply beautiful. The town is known as the “Città del Tufo”, or city of rock, because it is literally coming out of the ground from this red clay rock above a steep valley. Read my full Pitigliano travel guide to find out the best things to do and see.

Day 8: Montepulciano & Pienza

Next, hit two of Tuscany’s classic wine country towns. These are villages you’ve likely heard of, whether you are an avid traveler or wine taster.

Montepulciano is a hilltop town that not only produces some of the world’s most famous reds but is beautiful to explore.

Make your way up to the cathedral at the top of the hill. If you get tired climbing the narrow streets, stop at the café for an iconic view at Caffè Poliziano.

And if you are going to do a wine tasting, Montepulciano is one of the best places.

Pienza, instead, is the gem of the Val d’Orcia, which is that iconic valley that you picture when someone says Tuscan countryside. It is also the home of Pope Pius II, so much of the town’s architecture and planning was influenced by him. In fact, it’s one of the first towns in which Renaissance architecture was implemented.

You can’t miss a stroll along the Via dell’Amore in Pienza, taking in the surrounding valley. Check out my full guide to Pienza .

Good to know : We had a great stay at Poggio Olivo , a stunning farmhouse in the Tuscan countryside. Not too expensive, amazing view and amenities and a very gracious host!

Day 9: Siena

Before you arrive in Siena, head to some of the best places to see cypress trees in Tuscany , like the Crete Senesi and the Cipressi di San Quirico.

Then head to Siena , one of the most beautiful small cities in Italy. From the terra cotta buildings to the unique Piazza del Campo to the breathtaking facade of the Duomo, Siena is just a seriously amazing place to discover with so much to see.

If you can, I would recommend staying 2 days in Siena. It is so beautiful and, while you can see most of the city in half a day, it would be best to give it at least a full day or two.

Day 10: Monteriggioni & Return to Florence

Medieval walled city in the middle of a field. Monteriggioni, Italy.

All good things must come to an end!

As you make your way back to Florence, stop by Monteriggioni , a 25-minute drive from Siena and a very unique, very small destination to close out your Tuscany road trip itinerary.

It is a Medieval walled town, one of the best preserved in the world. Entering the town is literally like entering a fortress of a different era.

The center is so small but still bustling. I had lunch here, a great Florentine steak at Ristorante da Remo.

Tuscany Road Trip Planning Tools & Tips

Renting a car & driving in italy.

One of the essential road trip tips I can help you with is on renting a car and driving in Italy.

Renting a car in Italy is straightforward and similar to other countries. The minimum age for rental is 26 years old. I prefer to use aggregator sites like AutoEurope that pull together all the different prices and options from various rental companies to find the best deal.

One thing you will definitely need is an International Driver’s Permit.

Pro tip: Keep in mind that the majority of vehicles in Italy are manual. If you cannot drive manual and prefer to drive a car with an automatic gearshift, you must specify this in your rental car reservation. Renting an automatic car typically comes at a higher cost.

Before you hit the open road, check out my guide to driving in Italy . There are quite a few differences and particular tips you should be aware of in order to avoid fines or any trouble!

Calculating road trip cost

The resources I am about to share are some of my overall favorite road trip planning tips.

Budget is a huge part of planning a road trip and it can get out of hand if you don’t set up a plan beforehand.

One first step is to calculate the estimated cost of gas of your whole trip. Luckily, ViaMichelin makes this easy. It is one of my favorite tools to calculate the cost of different routes.

Input your destinations and the order in which you are visiting them to get an estimate gas price.

You should also use the site Autostrade , which is the website of Italy’s national highway system, as a resource for fuel prices, calculating your route and updated road information.

Also, use my free downloadable road trip budget planner to have an overview of all the main expenses that could come your way, beyond just gas and tolls! Just sign up below to my newsletter to get access to this free resource and many more in The Travel Library.

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Locating gas stations

Autostrade.it is also a great resource for locating your nearest gas station or, if you are looking beforehand, the gas stations that are along your route.

You can just input where you are starting and where you are ending up, as well as add other specific parameters (like if you need regular gas, methane, diesel, etc) to get a list of the gas stations along the way.

Organizing your itinerary

Keeping your itinerary organized and handy isn’t as easy as it seems. That’s why I love Google Maps Trip Planner .

This tool allows you to create your own personal maps and separate the pinned locations by layer. You could separate them by category or, how I prefer, by day of trip, to see what’s the plan for each day of your itinerary.

It is also a great way to save extra ideas and stops in case you find yourself with extra time.

Learn how to make the most of using Google Maps Trip Planner for any of your travel itineraries!

The SGTD Take

I think it is obvious how I feel about a Tuscany road trip – it is one of the best road trips in Italy, a total dream and something I wish every traveler has the opportunity to do!

I was a “travel snob” who had been to Tuscany once and said, well what more could there possibly be? And now I have been several times after, always discovering something new and, of course, beautiful and charming.

There’s a reason it is one of the most popular destinations in the world and I must say, it deserves all the credit.

Italy Trip Planning Resources

Accommodation : For Italy, I mainly use Booking.com to search and book places to stay.
Booking flights : I like to search for flights through Skyscanner , but I also book direct depending on the airline.
Activities & experiences : For things to do that require a ticket, and for more unique trip activities, I use Musement .
Road trip : For renting a car, I get the best prices by comparing companies with AutoEurope . I then use ViaMichelin to estimate road trip costs and Autostrade.it to find gas stations/have live updates on traffic.
Transportation : Traveling by public transportation is a great way to see Italy. I use Trenitalia or Trainline to book tickets for trains and Flixbus for long-haul bus trips.
Accessories : I always travel with this portable charger to stay connected and with a universal adapter to accommodate Italy’s plug types.
Need help planning an itinerary? Fill out my form for a custom itinerary request !

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Plan your Tuscany road trip with me in the comments!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

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What to do in Tuscany – Top ideas for your trip

It’s one of those places everyone dreams of going to. The question is what to do in Tuscany when you’re there. Don’t worry, this is a place that’s overflowing with sights , and unforgettable experiences . In fact you’ll run out of holiday long before you run out of things to do. So we’ve created the ultimate check list . All the unmissable things to do in Tuscany that will make your trip truly special.

What to do in Tuscany

Visit florence, the city of the renaissance.

Florence is a city that never loses its magic. From a visit to the majestic Duomo , to a night out in San Frediano, one of the coolest neighbourhoods , Florence has it all. And as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence feels like an open air museum . Don’t miss Piazza Signoria , a walk along the Ponte Vecchio and an evening Negroni in Santo Spirito.

Enjoy its glorious countryside

Rolling vineyards , quiet olive groves , avenues lined with cypress trees and walled towns on the top of a hill . This is Tuscany . Landscapes so unforgettable they look like they have jumped right off a postcard. Drive the winding roads of the Chianti region and the Val D’Orcia , a Unesco world heritage site. Stay in a local agriturismo or country B&B – and while you’re there why not try your hand at grape picking during the v endemmia . Walking tours , cycling holidays and even Vespa tours are a great way to see this beautiful world go by.

Discover the best of the Chianti region which boasts one of the finest countrysides in the world!

Wine tasting, from Chianti to the Super Tuscans

Wine is one of the things Italy is famous for, Tuscany has some of the finest wines in the country. From the excellent Brunello di Montalcino to classic Chianti wines, there’s something to suit your taste. Try wine tasting at a historical wine estates like Antinori or Badia a Coltibuono in the Chianti region . In Tuscany every area has something different to offer your tastebuds. Try the white wines in the Maremma , the noble wines of Montepulciano , and the Super Tuscans of Bolgheri. Alla salute!

Enjoy some of Italy’s most scenic drives

Driving in Tuscany is part of the reason for going. It’s the best way to see this incredible landscape at any time of year. Every season has its own special colours . And subtle changes in topography. In Tuscany, every trip offers a new viewing opportunity. Head for Val D’Orcia and take a drive between Pienza and Montepulciano . Or drive along the winding roads of the Chianti , immersed in vineyards and olive groves. Mount Argentario in the Maremma is the best spot for coastal drives.

Find out about the best scenic drives in Tuscany.

Visit a Medieval town

Tuscany has its fair share of Medieval towns. Beautifully maintained and restored they seem so untroubled by the passing of time that you could be walking around in the middle ages . The most famous is San Gimignano with its impressive house towers that create its famous silhouette. Among the most scenic ones are Cortona , Certaldo Alto and enchanting Volterra , the splendid Massa Marittima and of course Siena with its gorgeous Piazza del Campo.

Want more trip ideas? Explore some of the most charming small towns in Tuscany , Italy.

Climb an ancient tower

From Giotto’s bell tower in Florence to the Torre Grossa in San Gimignano and Boccaccio’s house in Certaldo Alto , there are plenty of atmospheric towers to climb in Tuscany. Aside from the thrill of being inside a centuries old tower , one of the best reasons to do this is the view. These towers usually dominate the town so you’ll get breathtaking views and of course an amazing spot for a selfie!

See world-famous works of art

Florence is the home of the Uffizi Gallery , one of the world’s most celebrated art museums. You’ll find work by masters from Michelangelo to Da Vinci, Raphael and Botticelli. Visit the Accademia to admire the Statue of David and the Bargello for more masterpieces of sculpture. Check out the Pinacoteca in Siena of the National San Matteo Museum in Pisa for some amazing Medieval art.

Passionate about art? Check out our tips for the best museums in Florence .

Admire architectural wonders in Tuscany

The Square of Miracles and the Leaning Tower are some of the highlights of Italy , and Florence’s Cathedral with its Dome is one of the architectural wonders of the world. Siena’s Cathedral and Piazza del Campo are pure Medieval pleasure for the eye, while Lucca’s massive city walls are an impressive example of Renaissance military architecture. In Tuscany you’ll also find some gorgeous country churches like Sant’Antimo Abbey and the Monte Oliveto Maggiore monastery with its fascinating frescoes.

Relax at the beach

For anyone wanting a beach holiday in Italy, Tuscany is a gem. The coast in Tuscany has clean, swimmable beaches and you can still find some that are quite wild, especially in the Maremma area . If you’re wondering what to do in Tuscany in the summer a trip to the beach is almost mandatory. You can rent a deckchair and umbrella, or simply head for the “free beaches’.

Find out the best beaches in the region , and some great coastal towns to visit .

Taste the flavours of Tuscany

You can hardly go to Tuscany without trying some of their classic dishes . From pasta to soups and simple cured meat, there are delights on every menu . Try the famous Bistecca alla Fiorentina – the Florentine T bone steak, the mouthwatering crostini with lardo , fish soup cacciucco, and an artisan gelato is never a bad idea.

Order a cappuccino – in Italian

For your morning coffee in Tuscany you’ll be going to a local “bar” (the word for coffee shop in Italian). And the choice is endless . A simple caffè, a frothy cappuccino , or a milky caffellatte . All are delicious, but you’ll savour them even more if you order like an Italian. Say “ Vorrei un cappuccino per favore ” which literally means you’d like a cappuccino please. Don’t forget to say “ Grazie” when you get your change!

These are our suggestions for what do do in Tuscany. Have some of your own? Write to us!

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view of blooming red flower during fall in tuscany italy with san gimignano in the background, a wonderful stop during 3 days in tuscany

How to Enjoy 3 Days in Tuscany: Itinerary Ideas With or Without a Car!

With its iconic cities, beautiful hilltop towns, world-famous wineries, and glistening, golden light, it’s no surprise that spending a few days in Tuscany is one of the most popular additions to first-timers’ Italy itineraries!

If you’re planning your first trip to the region and are curious about how to make the most of a short but sweet 3 days in Tuscany, this guide is for you (and if you happen to have more time in the region, here’s our recommended Tuscany road trip itinerary ).

We’ve spent months traveling Tuscany in-depth over the years, and have experienced the region in just about every way possible: on a budget, on a splurge, with a car, via train, as a couple, with extended family… and no matter which style of trip we take, we always walk away enchanted by the region’s food, beauty, wine, and warm people.

When it comes to the logistics of planning a trip to Tuscany, though, we know that it can be tough to narrow down exactly how to structure your trip–especially when many of the best places to visit in Tuscany are small towns that can be a bit harder to access than major cities are.

While you can’t see more than a small sample of Tuscany in 3 days, you can absolutely see enough to make your trip incredibly memorable.

Here’s everything you need to know about planning a 3 day trip to Tuscany!

kate storm standing in front of a pretty door and balcony in arezzo italy

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Where Exactly is Tuscany, Italy?

At the very beginning of your planning journey and curious about what exactly Tuscany is–beyond being a collection of idyllic photos of hilltop towns and rolling hills?

Tuscany is one of Italy’s 20 administrative regions and a fairly large one at that!

Located on the western coast of the country (yes, Tuscany has beaches and even islands!), Tuscany is considered part of Central Italy.

It’s bordered primarily by the regions of Emilia-Romagna (home of Bologna ) to the northeast and Umbria to the southeast, though it also touches Lazio (home of Rome ) to the south, Marche to the east, and Liguria (home of Cinque Terre ) to the northwest.

Florence is the capital city of the region of Tuscany.

kate storm and jeremy storm sitting on the edge of the arno with the ponte vecchio in the background

How We Structured These Ideas for 3 Days in Tuscany

In a region as big as Tuscany, designing the perfect itinerary for your visit is less about seeing it all than about prioritizing what you want to see.

For one example, to drive from Florence to Saturnia (Tuscany’s most iconic hot spring) takes more than 3 hours each way–and with hundreds of places worth visiting in Tuscany, you’ll likely find the drive isn’t worth it if you only have a few days to spare.

To help you narrow it down, we’ve outlined a handful of short Tuscany itineraries in this blog post, each filled with places that we adore that are also popular with first-time visitors.

jeremy storm and ranger storm on a picturesque street in pienza

We’ve intentionally kept this guide to spending a few days in Tuscany fairly high-level, and avoid getting bogged down into too many details about how to spend time in a particular destination.

Where possible, we’ve linked to the relevant blog posts that we’ve published about each place–but with 1 00+ blog posts about Italy on Our Escape Clause, it’s safe to say we haven’t been able to link to them all!

If you’re curious about our coverage of a certain destination, you can also use the search bar in the top right-hand corner of the screen (or on the pop-out menu, on mobile) to see what blog posts we have about a given city or town.

Kate Storm in the Tuscan countryside at sunset, with a sun flare on the right side of the photo.

Should you rent a car for 3 days in Tuscany?

When planning a trip to Tuscany, the first question you need to ask yourself when choosing an itinerary is whether or not you want to drive.

Do you need to rent a car in Tuscany?

No, ultimately it’s not necessary: between trains, buses, and organized day trips, you can enjoy a wonderful and fulfilling trip without getting behind the wheel, especially when you’ll only be in Tuscany for 3 days!

However, if you’re a confident driver who hopes to easily and independently access smaller villages without train stations (or with train stations that are a few kilometers away from town–a common issue with hilltop towns), get off the beaten path, or stay in the countryside (including renting a villa , for example), then you’ll need a car for visiting Tuscany.

We’ve enjoyed Tuscany both with and without a car over the years and while there’s no right or wrong answer to this question, there may be a clear right answer for you!

plate of pasta with bread and tuscan wine at il guerrino in montefioralle italy

The 3 day Tuscany itineraries we’ve outlined below feature options both with and without a car, so see what style of trip appeals to you!

If you’re on the fence about whether driving in Tuscany for a few days sounds idyllic or stressful, check out our driving tips in our Tuscany road trip guide –they’ll give you a good idea of what to expect.

If you do decide to rent a car in Tuscany, we recommend searching through Discover Cars , which will allow you to compare prices and inclusions of multiple companies at the same time and choose the best car for you from there.

Shop rental cars for your trip to Tuscany today!

view of montalcino tuscany with a couple cars driving down a road in the foreground

Exciting 3 Day Tuscan Itinerary Ideas (Perfect for First-Timers)

With hundreds of places to visit and experiences to enjoy (like a cooking class , for example!), there is a near-infinite number of ways to structure a 3 day Tuscany itinerary.

To help you narrow it down and get a feel for what you can accomplish with a few days in Tuscany, we’ve designed each of these sample itineraries to focus on some of the most popular places in Tuscany for first-time visitors.

One of these options is designed to visit with a car and two are organized around visiting Tuscany without a car, but you can easily mix and match depending on your wish list and travel style!

kate storm and jeremy storm holding up a pizza at a tuscany cooking class outside of florence italy

Classic Introduction to Tuscany Without a Car: Florence, Hill Towns, and Wineries

For the most classic 3 day introduction to Tuscany (no car needed), this Florence-focused itinerary is a great option.

It’s also the one we recommend in our suggested 2 week Italy itinerary !

kate storm overlooking the tuscan countryside from san gimignano in the fall, one of the best places to visit with 3 days in tuscany itinerary

Day 1 and 2: Florence

Start your first couple of days in Tuscany by diving deep into the region’s beloved capital city!

Our recommended 2 day Florence itinerary covers how to make the most of your time here in more detail, but a few things to look forward to include visiting Florence’s iconic Duomo , strolling across the Ponte Vecchio, enjoying lots of Tuscan food, and browsing markets for cheese, leather, and more.

Of course, the famous Uffizi Gallery ( we loved this tour ) and Galleria dell’Accademia (home of Michelangelo’s David ) are must-visits as well!

And, no visit to Florence is complete without seeking out some of the best views of the city , whether that’s from the top of the Duomo, Piazzale Michelangelo, Palazzo Vecchio (one of our favorites), or beyond.

Florence's Duomo as seen from the side at the Piazzale Michelangelo, one of the best places to visit in Italy

Day 3: Organized Day Trip to Hill Towns and Wineries

After exploring the best of Florence for a couple of days, it’s time to take to the hills!

Organized day trips to the Tuscan countryside, like this wildly popular one , can be an incredible value if your goal is to sample a variety of what makes this part of the world so special, without worrying about transportation (including a designated driver!), parking, or time.

This excellent day trip includes visits to the beautiful city of Siena and the classic hilltop town of San Gimignano, plus lunch at a family-operated vineyard in the Chianti wine region.

While fast-paced, the itinerary is very doable with a small group run by a knowledgeable guide–but it would be logistically difficult to visit all of those places in one day alone, and without a car, almost impossible.

Book your day trip to the Tuscan countryside today!

view of san gimignano from a tuscan winery, an italian bucket list worthy view

Classic Introduction to Tuscany With a Car: Siena, Montepulciano, the Val d’Orcia

Looking to plan a quick 3 day road trip through Tuscany?

If so, this itinerary through some of Tuscany’s most beautiful towns, villages, and rolling hills is for you!

narrow street in siena italy with contrade flag hanging from the buildings on the left, a fun stop during a 3 day tuscany itinerary

Day 1: Siena

The medieval military rival of Florence, the beautiful city of Siena is a (slightly) less crowded and smaller option for basing yourself during 3 days in Tuscany–and as a bonus, it’s much closer to the famed Val d’Orcia than Florence is!

While in Siena, don’t miss the striking, oval-shaped Piazza del Campo (home to the famous, bi-annual Palio di Siena horse race), the mesmerizing Siena Cathedral, or the view from the Torre de Mangia.

To see the best of the Duomo di Siena, we loved taking the Gate of Heaven tour to access the building’s rooftops and terraces–it’s one of our favorite things to do in Siena!

Don’t miss the view from the Panorama by the Unfinished Facade when exploring the cathedral complex, either. That’s where we snapped this photo of what is arguably Siena’s most famous view:

Piazza del Campo of Siena as seen from above. Siena is one of the best places to go in Italy.

Day 2: Montepulciano + Wine Tasting

On the second day of your mini 3 day Tuscan road trip, head directly to Montepulciano!

This hilltop town is a favorite among visitors to Tuscany, ourselves included, and is famous for its wine, views, and beautiful town center.

Start your morning in the historic center of Montepulciano (like virtually all Tuscan hilltop towns, you’ll need to park outside the center and climb a bit to the top–but it’s worth it!).

View of the countryside from the edge of Montepulciano, an excellent stop on any Tuscany itinerary!

Be sure to see the beautiful Piazza Grande, step inside one of Montepulciano’s famous wine cellars, admire the views from the Medici Fortress, and browse the shops and cafes (we love Caffe Poliziano and stop by every time we visit Montepulciano–don’t miss the views from the terrace out back!).

After enjoying Montepulciano itself–and possibly stopping outside the center to enjoy the Church of San Biagio–wine lovers can head to a nearby vineyard for a wine tasting.

Don’t want to drive any further?

Don’t worry–Montepulciano’s wine cellars located right in town have you covered (we loved Cantina de Ricci , and this organized visit is also a great way to explore).

hand holding up a glass of vino di nobile montepulciano italy wine bar

Day 3: The Val d’Orcia

Located about an hour south of Siena by car, the legendary Val d’Orcia is home to some of Tuscany’s most cherished and iconic landscapes–and the landscape itself is even recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Rolling hills framed by tall cypress trees, golden light, picturesque towns, and some of Tuscany’s most iconic photo spots (like the Chapel of Madonna di Vitaleta, for example) can all be found here.

Towns like Pienza , Montalcino, and Monticchiello make excellent destinations when exploring the Val d’Orcia, and we recommend visiting at least two of them during your final day in Tuscany, but simply driving through the landscape and appreciating the views is also a good portion of the fun!

If you have your heart set on visiting any of the most famous photography spots in and around the Val d’Orcia, be prepared for crowds–especially if you’re visiting in the high season and/or around sunset.

There’s no doubt that the views in this ethereal valley are truly something special, though: there’s a reason that the Val d’Orcia is so enduringly popular with photographers, painters, and travelers alike.

kate storm walking down a dirt road in tuscan countryside

Independent Tuscany Itinerary Without a Car: Florence, Lucca, Pisa, and Siena

Want to avoid both driving in Tuscany and taking any kind of organized tour?

If so, this easy 3 day Tuscany itinerary–which can be completed entirely by train –is for you!

This itinerary is simplest to accomplish by train when based in Florence, but if you plan carefully and don’t mind a couple of longer train rides with transfers ( travel between Siena and Lucca isn’t direct, but doable), you can technically stay in any of the highlighted cities on this route.

I will add a twist, though: if you’d like to rent a car for just one day , you could also take the third day of this itinerary to visit a couple of smaller villages–perhaps San Gimignano and Volterra –on a mini road trip, combining the best of both worlds for your Tuscan getaway!

Day 1: Florence

With only one day in Florence, you won’t be able to cover as much as in our first Tuscan itinerary suggestion above–but despite its world-class art and fame, Florence is a fairly small city!

Over a single (well-planned) day, you can easily pay a visit to the Duomo , seek out a viewpoint or two, visit David in the Galleria dell’Accademia or the Uffizi (or if you’re a true Renaissance art-lover, both), wander across the Ponte Vecchio, and go piazza-hopping through the historic center.

If you close out your day by admiring the view from Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset followed one last gelato while people-watching in a piazza (we’re partial to Piazza Signoria for this), you’re bound to walk away feeling like you’ve enjoyed a beautiful introduction to Florence.

For more detail, here’s our recommended one day Florence itinerary !

Kate Storm in a red dress sitting on a bridge overlooking the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. Florence is a fabulous place to spend 7 days in Italy!

Day 2: Siena

From one stunning Tuscan city to the next: on the second day of your Tuscany vacation, hop a train south to Siena !

Once you arrive and make your way up to the historic center, you’ll want to follow the same outline as suggested in the second itinerary recommendation above: Piazza del Campo, Siena’s beautiful Duomo, and the view from the Panorama should all be on your priority list.

If you do thorough justice to the Duomo Complex (as you should!), enjoy a leisurely lunch, and perhaps stop by the fresco-covered Santa Maria Della Scala Hospital, you’ll find that you can easily fill a day trip to Siena from Florence !

Day 3: Lucca + Pisa

When planning a 3 day trip to Tuscany without a car or the desire to book an organized day trip, by far the simplest destinations to round out visits to Florence and Siena with are Lucca and Pisa–and luckily, they’re well worth seeing!

Lucca in particular is one of our favorite cities in Tuscany, and is famous for its intact town walls, for being the “City of 100 Churches” (more than one complete with a mummy!), its oval-shaped Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, and its unique Torre Guinigi, where you can enjoy a garden in the sky while admiring views of Tuscany.

Relaxed, easy to wander through, and absolutely beautiful, it’s an amazing place to visit in Tuscany!

view of lucca italy from torre guinigi with oak tree branches in the foreground

Pisa, while not generally quite as well-loved as Lucca among repeat Tuscany visitors (ourselves included), is of course home to a very famous tower… that’s even more beautiful in person than it is in photos.

While we wouldn’t recommend spending a full third of your trip to Tuscany in Pisa, and you’ll definitely want to book your tower climb in advance , if you’ve long dreamed of seeing the Leaning Tower of Pisa, combining a stop there with a visit to Lucca is a great way to round out 3 days in Tuscany.

If you time the trains right, Lucca and Pisa are only about 30 minutes apart and are therefore easy to combine into one excellent day trip from Florence.

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm at the Leaning Tower of Pisa--this bucket list spot is part of just about any Tuscany road trip itinerary!

Tips for Spending a Few Days in Tuscany

Narrow down which part of tuscany you hope to visit..

Tuscany is a surprisingly big region, as well as a (perhaps not so surprisingly) rural one, especially once you step off the beaten path!

After enough trips to Tuscany that we’ve lost track of how many times we’ve visited, we still haven’t seen everything we hope to–and part of the reason for that is that the distances involved are really too far to be able to day trip to every point in Tuscany from another.

With only a few days to enjoy the region, we recommend concentrating your itinerary geographically, if possible.

Kate Storm sitting on a ledge overlooking Arezzo, one of the best day trips from Florence

Florence, in north central Tuscany, can easily be combined with places like Lucca and Pisa to the west, as well as the Chianti wine region to the east, and San Gimignano to the southwest.

The area surrounding Siena is perfect for accessing places like Volterra , Monteriggioni, the Val d’Orcia, and Montepulciano (via a day trip).

Montepulciano itself makes a wonderful base for exploring the famous Val d’Orcia to the west (including towns like Pienza and Montalcino), as well as Cortona (the town from Under the Tuscan Sun ).

Some famous places, like Saturnia, are surprisingly far away to access on a first-time Tuscany itinerary, though certainly doable if it’s a priority for you!

saturnia hot spring in tuscany as seen from above, one of the best things to do in tuscany italy

Don’t rule out guided day trips–especially to wineries!

If your goal is to see a wide variety of the Tuscan countryside in one day, enjoy a wine tasting without worrying about anyone in your party being safe to drive afterward (and given the generous pours at Tuscan wine tastings, odds are that no one drinking will be!), or some combination of both, absolutely do not rule out signing up for an organized day trip in Tuscany!

While not all day tours around the world offer good value for money, in Tuscany they are generally a very good value (as long as they fit into your budget , of course).

Generally, with a tour, a first-time visitor will be able to see more with less time and access memorable experiences like farmhouse lunches with perfect views that–while certainly not impossible to source independently–require far more work to access alone than simply signing up for a day trip.

Some of our most memorable moments of travel in Tuscany have taken place as part of guided experiences!

With 3 days in Tuscany, this popular day trip (offered by one of our favorite tour companies in Italy) is a particularly good option for several itineraries.

wine tasting in tuscany as part of an organize day trip

Renting a car for part of your trip is often an excellent compromise.

While we’ve outlined the possible 3 day Tuscany itineraries included here to be all-or-nothing when it comes to renting a car, you absolutely don’t have to plan your trip that way!

If you’d like the best of both worlds, you can base yourself in a city like Florence, Siena, or Lucca, and then rent a car for just one day to explore the countryside independently.

Not only does this option cut down on the costs of renting a car, but it’s also immensely less stressful than being responsible for a rental car overnight when staying in a city, where navigation and parking are significant challenges.

Price out one-day car rentals in Tuscany today!

dirt road lined with italian cypress trees leading to a villa to rent in tuscany italy

If you’re visiting Tuscany with a car, decide where to park before you leave.

This is one of our favorite tricks to keeping stress levels down when driving into a new town in Tuscany: know where the public parking lots are and, when heading out for the day, put your directions on for that particular spot rather than just the town.

This dramatically cuts down on the risk of accidentally driving into a ZTL zone/limited traffic zone (and therefore getting a ticket) and also makes the trip into town far less stressful.

Now, in the interest of full disclosure, this doesn’t always work–occasionally the parking lot you have picked out will be full, or you’ll luck out and find street parking along the way–but in general, it will definitely make your few days in Tuscany much easier.

Siena Day Trip: Jeremy with Classic Cars

Be prepared for steep climbs when spending a few days in Tuscany.

Tuscany is known for its delightful hilltop towns, full of winding, narrow streets and plenty of foot traffic.

Combine the above description of Tuscany that we all know and love with the very concept of a Tuscany road trip, and an obvious question emerges: where are the cars?

Usually, they’re in parking garages built literally under the hilltop towns or on the outskirts of historical centers… which means you often have to walk up steep hills to reach the center.

Some cities, like Siena, have escalators installed to help alleviate this problem–but in general, be prepared for a little bit of a leg workout when visiting small towns in Tuscany!

kate storm drinking wine overlooking vineyards in tuscany

FAQ For Spending 3 Days in Tuscany

Is 3 days enough for tuscany.

While a lifetime probably isn’t long enough to uncover all of Tuscany’s secrets and hidden gems (we’ll try our best!), if your goal is to balance an introduction to Tuscany with a chance to see other parts of Italy as well, a few days in Tuscany is definitely enough to enjoy your first trip.

With a full 3 days in Tuscany, you’ll have a chance to see a Tuscan city or two, sample the countryside, learn about the iconic cuisine, sip local wine, and admire views from hilltop towns.

While there’s a good chance you’ll say goodbye after a few days in Tuscany already ready to plan your next trip back, you’ll also have enough time to enjoy a nice variety of what makes the region so special.

front facades of houses with greenery, one of the best places to visit in pienza italy

What are the best places to visit during your first trip to Tuscany?

Some of the most popular places to visit in Tuscany include Florence (the capital city of the region), Siena, Montepulciano , Pisa, Lucca , the Chianti wine region, San Gimignano, and the Val d’Orcia.

However, anywhere that tickles your fancy is well worth visiting!

Some of the other incredible places to visit in Tuscany include Saturnia (as well as many lesser-known hot springs like Bagno Vignoni), Arezzo , Cortona, the island of Elba, and the beach town of Forte dei Marmi.

In addition to specific towns and cities, unique experiences, like this Tuscan cooking class we loved , horseback riding in the countryside, and Vespa tours ( we adored this one ) also top many Tuscany bucket lists!

Kate Storm on a white Vespa in the Tuscan countryside--riding a Vespa is an incredibly fun experience during a Tuscany itinerary!

Is Tuscany or Florence better to visit?

This is a common point of confusion with first-time visitors, but Florence is in Tuscany–in fact, Florence is the capital city of the region!

For that reason, Florence is one of the easiest bases to use in order to take day trips to Tuscan hill towns and wineries in the countryside, which is often what people are referring to when they talk about visiting Tuscany for the first time.

kate storm and jeremy storm visit the duomo florence italy

Do you need a car in Tuscany?

You can easily make an argument for or against renting a car in Tuscany, but here’s the shortest answer: while you do not need a car to enjoy a trip to Tuscany, there’s a good chance you will want one in order to pull off your dream trip!

However, while driving in Tuscany is easier than in some places in Italy, it’s best suited for confident drivers who drive regularly as part of their daily lives.

view of pink flowers blooming in the boboli gardens during spring in tuscany italy

What is the best month to visit Tuscany?

While we would never turn down a trip to Tuscany in any month of the year, our personal favorite months to visit Tuscany are September and October, for crisp fall weather, slowly diminishing crowds (though the crowds seem to stick around longer every year), and the wine harvest.

November, when the olive harvest happens and fresh olive oil hits the shelves (it’s never tastier than the moment it’s pressed!) is also a favorite.

April and May are also very popular, in order to enjoy all the best of spring in Tuscany , including bustling markets and blooming flowers, and also have a chance to visit Tuscany before schools let out and crowds pick up for the summer.

Winter is very quiet in Tuscany, especially in small towns , but is also the least expensive time to visit.

kate storm in a green sweater in the bardini gardens with view of florence italy behind her

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.

4 thoughts on “How to Enjoy 3 Days in Tuscany: Itinerary Ideas With or Without a Car!”

Hi Kate: My husband and I are coming to this beautiful reagion in October and would love to have you guide us around. Please let me know what we should do at this point. We have been to florence and have seen all the tourist attrations. We want to visit the wine country of tuscany and the villages. We only have 3 days. October 1-4. If you can be our guide we will not rent a car. We are not sure where to make our base. Please let me know your thoughts and if you are interested in being a part of this adventure. we are a bit older, 70 and 66. Thanks for talking with us.

Thank you so much for thinking of us! However, we’re not travel agents or tour guides (and in fact, being an official tour guide in Italy is quite an involved process that involves years of study and requires a license).

Our travel guides are meant to help independent travelers plan their trips, and if you decide to go that direction, we’re always happy to answer a few questions!

Hope you guys have a fantastic time in Tuscany. 🙂

Hi Kate, do you have any lodging recommendations in Florence? Planning to spend 2 nights and 3 days in Florence on our 10 days in Italy. Thanks!!

Yes, absolutely! This is the guide I’ve updated most recently with Florence hotels: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/2-weeks-in-italy-itinerary

Hope you guys have a fantastic trip!

Best Places to Visit in Tuscany

J oin EuropeUpClose as we take a journey to some of the best places to visit in Tuscany. We will begin in Florence, then drive to San Gimignano with a stop at the fabulous Antinori nel Chianti Classico Winery. From San Gimignano we venture to the compelling town of Siena with its fantastic cathedral and famous horse races in the Palio. Another hour south and we’ll stop at Caparzo Winery near Montalcino before heading east to the beautiful hilltop walled city of Montepulciano.

Visit Florence

Florence is a natural starting point to begin your journey to the best places to visit in Tuscany. Known for the imposing red-roofed Duomo and Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia, Florence is a mecca for art, food, architecture, and history. You don’t want to miss the Uffizi Museum, the Central Market, and Ponte Vecchio, the bridge across the Arno River filled with shops displaying jewelry, crafts, and other fun products.

Also, read these articles on Florence:

Where to stay in Florence
Best Florence Walking Tours
Best things to do in Florence
Best Day Trips from Florence

Florentine Bisteca

And, of course, if you are in Florence, you must try the famous Florentine Bisteca. It is often referred to as some of the best steak in the world. We were lucky to have reservations at Trattoria dall’Oste Chianineria on Via dei Cerchi. Just a few minutes south of the Duomo, this iconic restaurant is well known for their Bisteca and other fine cuts of meat.

Florentines do like their steak rare, so be aware. You can order yours medium or medium rare, and it will most likely still come out very pink. One thing I liked about Trattoria dall’Oste Chianineria is that they brought out a hot plate along with the steak. That way, anyone who wanted their steak more done could cook it a bit more right at the table. Most of us ate it like it came, but there were a few in our party who preferred their steak more done. Sides included roasted potatoes, pasta with thinly sliced truffles, and some tasty bruschetta. For dessert, we completed our meal with a glass of Vin Santo served with tasty biscotti.

Wine Tasting and Lunch at Antinori Winery

With options of several great Antinori locations, we chose to tour the Antinori nel Chianti Classico vineyards just 20 minutes south of Florence. In a country where wine is a way of life, for twenty-six generations, the name Antinori has stood out.

We booked the special CRU Tour. This included a tour of the winery, a wine tasting of seven great wines, followed by a delicious lunch. This fully immersive experience featuring the wine-making philosophy of Marchesi Antinori following years of family tradition. Led by our outstanding sommelier, our tasting was held inside the fabulous wine cellar. Then we enjoyed lunch on the outdoor patio at the Rinuccio 1180 restaurant. This modernistic rooftop restaurant overlooks the gently rolling hills of the scenic Tuscan countryside.

Some of our favorite wines included a crisp Cervaro Della Sala Blend of Chardonnay and Grechetto and a Tignanello red blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. The crowd favorite was the outstanding Brunello di Montalcino Pian Dellevigne Sangiovese. The following lunch on the beautiful outside terrance at Rinuccio made for a most pleasant day. This special vineyard among special vineyards in Tuscany is certainly worth a visit.

Explore the Hilltop Walled-Town of San Gimignano

After being totally wowed by Antinori nel Chianti Classico, we headed south to nearby San Gimignano. This was our third visit to this iconic Tuscan town – and we will be back again. No article about best places to visit in Tuscany would be complete without this idyllic town.

We stayed at the cozy Orto di Emma at Piazza delle erbe 4 . The location is conveniently in the middle of this walled city. Restaurants, spectacular views, and attractions are just a few steps away. Without any train station in town, most visitors come via personal car or with a tour group. There is a bus that comes from the closest train station (~ five miles away), but check the schedules.

Eat at Fuoriluogo Ristorante

Fuoriluogo Ristorante is a wonderful family restaurant just a two-minute walk outside the walls. In addition to having wonderful food, the service, the artwork, and the friendliness of Mauro, Davide, Enrica, Christian, and the rest of the staff are all top-notch. It’s no wonder Fuoriluogo is one of the highest-rated restaurants in San Gimignano.

Mauro was gone for important meetings with Barolo. He continues to work on the fine wines the restaurant offers to diners. In his absence, the rest of the staff did a superb job of welcoming us and making us feel so special. Our outstanding waiter, Rafael, kindly suggested a recommended menu along with wine pairings, and we were so glad we agreed to take his advice. Julie and I enjoyed a fantastic meal with just the right wines paired with each dish.

Favorites included the Wild Boar Ravioli with citrus fruits in a saffron cream sauce, and a delectable Soft Organic Egg with sausage, red peppers, and gorgovino mousse. We also both loved the pizza, some of the best I’ve ever tasted. The light, tender crust had just the right flavors to complement the fresh tomatoes, cheeses, and fresh herbs. For dessert, we could not resist the tempting tiramisu.

In addition to the fantastic food and service, the artwork and ambiance of Fuoriluogo is superb. Davide is a wonderful artist and painted much of the beautiful artwork in the restaurant. The friendly staff, elegant but comfortable ambiance and outstanding food and drink make Fuoriluogo one of the top restaurants in San Gimignano.

Check Out Intriguing Siena

It was hard to leave San Gimignano, but we had Siena waiting for us. The charming walled city of Siena is famous for its beautiful cathedral and for the exciting Palio di Siena Horse Races held twice a year in the large central Piazza del Campo. We unfortunately just missed this exciting event. It normally takes place twice a year on July 2 and August 16 every year. Preliminary events take place the three days before the official race. Since this is a very popular event, plan early if you want to attend during the races.

Following lunch on the lovely outdoor terrace at ViVace Ristorante and Wine Bar , we walked the short 10 minutes to the beautiful gothic Siena Cathedral. This impressive structure was built between 1215 and 1267 and features artwork from artists like Michelangelo, Donatello, and Pisano. With its iconic greenish-black and white stripes, this historic icon is striking inside and out. Other great attractions in and around the cathedral include the Piccolomini Library, the Museo dell ‘Opera, Baptistery, Crypt, Oratory of San Bernardino, and Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art.

Drink Brunello Wines at Caparzo Winery in Montalcino

With so many outstanding wineries around Montalcino, we picked Caparzo Winery to have a tasting and to explore. My new daughter-in-law became acquainted with Caparzo while watching the fun Letters to Juliet movie from 2010. There are some scenes in the movie from one of the many Caparzo winery locations in Tuscany. We thoroughly enjoyed our tour and tasting at Caparzo Winery, especially their world-famous Brunello di Montalcino. An added bonus was the spectacular scenery on our road trip from Montepulciano to Caparzo. Located in the picturesque hills of Montalcino, with fields of red poppies next to golden fields of wheat blowing in the breeze.

Eat and Drink your Way through Montepulciano

So, after visiting the walled cities of San Gimignano and Siena, we had another walled hilltop city on our itinerary: Montepulciano. Our return to this fantastic village was equally full of great food, wines, views, history, and special people of the town. This very walkable small town is anchored by the Grand Piazza, and is famous for its Vino Nobile red wines . Another notable landmark includes the Torre di Pulcinella. This clock tower is topped by the whimsical figure of the Pulcinella, a classical comedic character.

We also found the “underground city” of this hill town fascinating. Miles of tunnels, rooms, and cellars have been carved into the rock underneath Montepulciano, making for a fun and educational tour. We went to the popular Cantina Ercolani for a tour and wine tasting. Other popular wineries in Montepulciano include Cantucci Winery and Cantina de‘Ricci.

Eat at L’Altro Cantuccio Ristorante

L’Altro Cantuccio Ristorante is a fabulous family-run restaurant just a few minutes’ walk from where we stayed at the lovely Montepulciano Bed & Breakfast at Via Di Gracciano. Chef Mattia Putzulu and his lovely wife, Monica, a Sommelier, have created one of the best dining experiences in Montepulciano. L’Altro Cantuccio exudes old-world charm. Modern appointments along with the historic stone, wood, and brick is the perfect blend of old and new.

Mattia and Monica graciously hosted us for an extremely memorable evening. For starters, we enjoyed an outstanding Tuscan and Cinta Senese salami, Pecorino cheese of Pienza, and a selection of homemade fruit mostarda. Our server also brought a stuffed golden tomato held by a sculpted hand along with an excellent 100% Sangiovese wine.

For my main course, I had the Cheek of Chianani Beef cooked for 50 hours, with spicy vegetables, citrus fruits, and dill. The beef cheek was extremely tender and flavorful. It was one of my favorite dishes during our three-week visit to Europe. My wife had the equally excellent grilled Chianani flank steak. Other enticing mains on the menu included the Lamb with ember, coconut, mint, and radish, and a crispy salt cod with artichokes and burrata cheese.

Dessert was the amazing Underworld, an artistic and decadent concoction of chocolate mushrooms, acorns, and undergrowth – a true masterpiece! Each bite brought out the intense flavors of chocolate, cream, and nuts. I would loved to have brought one back to the states to share with family and friends, but I don’t think it would travel well (plus, I would probably eat it all before our return!).

L’Altro Cantuccio has deservedly earned its reputation as one of the top restaurants in Montepulciano. Do yourself a favor, and let Mattia and Monica treat you to a fantastic dining experience in their lovely hilltop restaurant.

Discover Top Places in Tuscany For Yourself

Obviously, there are so many great places to visit in Tuscany that no one article can capture them all. Many are relatively unknown and just waiting for you to discover them. We hope by introducing you to just a few of the many options you will be inspired to come visit for yourself. Tuscany is indeed one of Italy’s treasures and should not be missed on any Italy itinerary .

Best Places to visit in Tuscany was written and photographed by Scott Kendall for EuropeUpClose. Thanks to our gracious hosts, including Fuoriluogo Ristorante and L’Altro Cantuccio. All opinions are those of the author.

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Sober Travelers Find Something to Savor in Wine Country

Mocktail trails, olive oil tours and elevated dining experiences are among the many ways the renowned wine-producing areas of Sonoma, Mendoza and Tuscany are appealing to sober or sober-curious travelers.

A green, brown and yellow illustration of a woman wearing a wide-brimmed hat and biking through a wine vineyard.

By Christine Chitnis

Amy Snook knows more about wine than your average traveler. Originally from California, she now lives in the Douro Valley of Portugal, her partner works in the wine industry, and she has visited 47 countries, many of which have celebrated viticulture. But seven years ago, on a trip to Mendoza, a winemaking region in the foothills of Argentina’s Andes Mountains, she opted to abstain from drinking alcohol, a decision she would repeat in future travels.

“It’s such a long flight to Argentina, and I was only there for 10 days,” said Ms. Snook, 34, a publishing professional. “I’m aware of how alcohol affects me, and I chose to prioritize feeling amazing every day of the trip over dealing with a hangover.”

During her visit, Ms. Snook bicycled between vineyards, reveled in breathtaking scenery, relaxed with spa treatments and engaged with sommeliers and winemakers, coming away with a new appreciation for sustainable and regenerative agriculture.

“The obvious question when you tell someone that you aren’t drinking is, ‘Out of all the places you could go, why travel to wine country?’” she said. “But to me, it makes perfect sense because these regions offer all the perks of luxury travel — wellness amenities, beautiful landscapes and fine dining.”

With 41 percent of Americans seeking to reduce their alcohol intake, according to a consumer-sentiment study released in January by NCSolutions, Ms. Snook’s experience is part of a larger trend: the rise of sober-curious or mindful drinking. While sober travel is hardly a new concept, its popularity is surging to new heights — particularly among younger generations — and forcing a reckoning in the wine industry. The 2024 State of the U.S. Wine Industry report , an annual forecast of market conditions and trends written by the wine-business analyst Rob McMillan, found that 52 percent of consumers ages 21 to 34 believe that consuming alcohol, even in moderation, is bad for your health.

This trend is reshaping travel to world-class wine destinations like Sonoma County, in California, as well as Mendoza and Tuscany. Blessed with temperate climates, extended growing seasons, fertile soils, rich histories and breathtaking vistas, these renowned wine locales are expanding their offerings to attract drinkers and nondrinkers.

Here are some of the restaurants, tour groups and wineries in those regions that are reinventing the travel experience to be more inclusive of the sober-curious.

Dining in Sonoma

If wine is a true expression of the land, embodying the unique characteristics of its soil, weather and the meticulous craftsmanship of those who cultivate it, can you still forge that connection without drinking?

At Cyrus , a Michelin-starred fine dining destination in Geyserville , Calif., the answer is a resounding yes. Sonoma County, double the size of neighboring Napa, made conscious decisions to protect and diversify its land use, ensuring grapes as well as agricultural crops were grown. Douglas Keane, Cyrus’s owner and chef, highlights the local harvest by working with small farms and purveyors to source his ingredients. Crosnes — a Chinese artichoke — from Alexander Valley Vineyards gardens, yuzu and finger limes from the citrus grower David Levine, and cheesefrom Andante Dairy have all ended up on Cyrus’s menu.

Also on the menu: Kally , an alcohol-free wine alternative produced with housemade organic verjuice and sourced from Northern California. Served at more than 15 other Michelin-starred restaurants, Kally’s bottles include Early Chardonnay, which is crisp, bright and changes flavor and aroma as it moves across the palate, similar to a fine wine. A tart, vibrant Golden Sparkler has notes of jasmine and citrus, and a floral, fruity Rosé Sparkler offers hints of strawberry and hibiscus.

“Chefs and sommeliers are interested in having precise nonalcoholic pairings. Their food was created to be prepared with sophisticated drinks, not just sparkling water,” said Scott Mitic, who created the beverage along with his wife, Katie.

Customers, too, appreciate having a choice, he said, noting that many of Kally’s most loyal drinkers are wine enthusiasts. “This is not an abstinence movement; it is a moderation movement.”

Cyrus Schultz, the wine director and sommelier at Cyrus, aims to create drinks that make sober guests feel just as special, if not more, than those indulging in traditional wine pairings. His nonalcoholic creations include the Rosé Champagne, an effervescent blend of coconut, white sesame, cherry blossom and lime, and the Apple Martini, a sweet, herbaceous concoction of pink lady apple, fennel and mint olive oil.

“The intention is never to mimic alcohol products, but to construct the pairings similarly to how a chef looks at a menu — different textures, temperatures and flavor profiles,” Mr. Schultz said.

These efforts are not limited to one restaurant. Chris Vomvolakis, senior manager of consumer public relations at Sonoma County Tourism , said bars, restaurants and wineries across the region are recognizing that it’s not all about wine.

The town of Healdsburg recently created the Mocktail Trail , with eight participating restaurants, and Meadowcroft Wines in the town of Sonoma curated a flight of original zero-proof cocktails. David Messerli, Meadowcroft’s marketing and strategy director, said the winery encourages guests “to discern aromas, flavors and nuances, much like they would with wine.”

“For those opting out of alcohol, we felt there was more we could do,” he said. “People have various reasons for abstaining from alcohol, and no one should feel excluded because of it.”

Women-led luxury in Mendoza

Mendoza, renowned for its malbec wines and stunning Andean landscapes, is no stranger to luxury accouterments, but sober guests? That is a newer phenomenon. “We have definitely noticed an increase in guests seeking nonalcoholic travel options in recent years,” said Victoria Stiles, sales manager at Cavas Wine Lodge , a luxury 18-room hotel set amid a 55-acre vineyard.

At Cavas, wine may be the main attraction, but guests can book spa treatments using vine and grape-seed extracts, join yoga sessions on the private terrace overlooking the Andes and vineyards, and take full-day hiking excursions to Aconcagua Provincial Park, a rugged, mountainous destination that is home to Mount Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak.

Wild Terrains , a certified B-Corp travel company specializing in experiences for women, has planned three days of a 10-day Argentina tour to be sober-inclusive in Mendoza. Built around women-owned businesses, stops include boutique lodging at Entre Cielos , horseback riding in the Andean foothills, home-cooked asado at Estancia Los Chulengos and a private dining experience at Michelin-starred Zonda Cocina de Paisaje . The meal offers special mocktail pairings with distinct flavors like lemon verbena, beets and burro, an herb used to make digestive teas and infusions.

“In Mendoza, our trip centers on talented female winemakers who are pushing boundaries in a historically male-dominated industry,” said Lauren Bates, founder of Wild Terrains. “While these experiences include wine tastings, we want sober travelers to feel intentionally included even if they are skipping the wine tasting.”

Sofia Pescarmona, owner of the Bodega Lagarde vineyard and Zonda Cocina de Paisaje, said that while the restaurant experience aims to showcase their wine, nondrinkers will also appreciate it.

“We truly believe we can offer an elevated experience for those who don’t drink wine by highlighting other seasonal produce grown on our property,” she said.

Tasting olive oil in Tuscany

Wine tastings epitomize indulgence, especially immersed in the heart of Tuscany, when visitors can savor glass after glass of Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Salvatore Ferragamo Jr., chief executive of the Il Borro wine estate and grandson of the fashion house’s founder, encourages guests to find other ways to indulge.

“The olive harvests in the autumn produce the region’s spicy, piquant ‘green gold,’” said Mr. Ferragamo.

Il Borro, in Tuscany’s Valdarno, is a meticulously restored medieval village that includes 58 suites, three vacation villas, two restaurants, stables, working vineyards and olive groves. Olive oil production began in 1996, following the recovery of varieties like Frantoio, Moraiolo and Leccino that had long been neglected. Now, after touring some 80 acres of organic groves, guests can engage in a tasting experience of two distinct oils, one full-bodied with floral, fruity and grassy aromas, the other robust, peppery and dark.

Another option, Tuscan Organic Tours , offers immersive daylong experiences that delve into wine and oil but also other rich agricultural offerings. Delicious tours with private transportation highlight tastes and flavors that include Pecorino di Pienza, one of the most renowned Italian cheeses, saffron and fresh pastas. The tours include visits to organic farms, lunches, tastings, and opportunities to participate in cheese-making and saffron harvesting.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places: Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai: Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto: The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland: The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas: Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Visit Florence. Florence is a natural starting point to begin your journey to the best places to visit in Tuscany. Known for the imposing red-roofed Duomo and Michelangelo's David in the ...
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We are trying to form a route through the Tuscan Region and are open to some good ideas about towns along the coast. For now we plan to be in Lucca then move to Rosignano Solvay or any good coastal town. ... Tuscany ; Tuscany Travel Forum; Search. Browse all 68,958 Tuscany topics » Tuscany June 2024 Watch this Topic. Browse forums; All. Browse ...
Sober Travelers Find Something to Savor in Wine Country
Il Borro, in Tuscany's Valdarno, is a meticulously restored medieval village that includes 58 suites, three vacation villas, two restaurants, stables, working vineyards and olive groves.