Romantic stone farmhouses and magnificent villas surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, endless fields of bright yellow sunflowers, medieval hilltop towns, and renowned cities like Florence, filled with the works of masters as the cradle of the Renaissance, there is lots to love about Tuscany. It’s also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, not to mention one of the most mouthwatering food and wine scenes. Covering nearly 8,875 miles, one could easily spend months or even years here and not experience it all. Many visitors start in Florence to marvel at some of the world’s most recognizable Renaissance architecture and art, including Michelangelo’s David and the grand Duomo, the city’s most iconic symbol topped by the world’s largest brick dome. All itineraries should also include trips to explore the countryside, while summer getaways are ideal for Elba Island’s sandy beaches and brilliant blue Tyrrhenian Sea.
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As such a large region, one of the most difficult decisions you’ll make is where to stay. Before choosing your accommodation, you’ll need to determine a base, or perhaps a few in different areas. Unless you have unlimited time, experiencing everything it has to offer is impossible, so you’ll need to prioritize. The city of Florence is arguably the best for first-time visitors, with some of the most famous attractions here while many enticing towns and villages can be easily reached on day trips. That includes Siena, Pisa, and San Gimignano, just to name a few. Florence also offers excellent public transport links, easily reached by train, bus, or plane. You might combine a stay here with a stay in a smaller city like Siena, a good base for families and wine enthusiasts, or a charming hilltop village like San Gimignano with its quiet setting ideal for escaping the crowds.
There is plenty of things to do in Tuscany, but for the first-time visitor, there are some absolute musts.
Florence is not to be missed with the top thing to do exploring its art and architecture. You’ll find works by the greats, including da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raffaello, and Botticelli. Marvel at the remarkable details in David, one of the most famous pieces by Michelangelo at the Accademia Gallery, and visit Uffizi, one of the most renowned art museums in the world with many one-of-a-kind Renaissance works. Art can also be seen in cathedrals and palaces.
One of the highlights of Tuscany is its enchanting hilltop towns. You’ll want at least a day to explore them. Montepulciano has roots dating to the 4th century BC, with city walls that were built in the 14th century. It’s famous for its wine and its stunning views of the lush landscapes from its 2,000-foot-high limestone ridge. San Gimignano is often called the most beautiful hilltop town with its ancient towers standing out on the skyline.
Siena is one of Tuscany’s most popular cities, with enticing medieval streets, breathtaking views from the country’s third-largest bell tower, and Piazza del Campo. The city’s main square, it’s world-famous for hosting the biannual Il Palio horse race on July 2 and August 16. The rest of the year it’s a popular gathering place ideal for people watching as well as housing some of the most notable structures in Siena, including the Fountain of Gaia, Palazzo Pubblico, and Torre del Mangia.
One of the most famous landmarks in the country can be found in Pisa. The Leaning Tower of Pisa started leaning soon after construction started in 1173 due to its unstable foundation. It leaned as far as 5.5 degrees from the perpendicular before extensive work reduced it to under 4 degrees. Millions come to marvel at it every year. It’s a popular spot for a unique selfie and many visitors climb the 251 steps to the top for a fabulous view.
Wine is one of Tuscany’s top draws, with vineyards and wineries dotted across the region, including famous appellations like Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti Classic, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Tasting and touring is a top thing to do, perhaps best enjoyed on a guided tour so no one has to worry about being behind the wheel. Either way, you won’t want to miss Contucci Winery in Montepulciano. Owned by one of Tuscany’s most prominent families, it can be found within the town’s city walls.
The Thermal Baths of Saturnia, officially called Cascate de Mulino, are located in the southern part of Tuscany near the town of Saturnia. Popular since Roman times, soaking in the travertine pools with naturally warm, milky turquoise waters is free. The temperature stays a consistent 99.5 degrees and the high concentration of minerals in the water is said to provide many benefits to the skin and circulatory system. On-site facilities include changing stalls, restrooms, showers, a restaurant, and a shop.
Tuscany is a year-round destination, but it’s especially popular between May and September, with July and August the peak of the busy season. Summer is hot and crowded, although it’s ideal for spending time on Tuscan beaches. Many feel the best time to visit Tuscany is in April or October, just before and after the main tourist season, with frequent idyllic weather, not too hot or too cold, and fewer tourists. Either month is ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and taking tours. Wine tours are especially lovely in early autumn with landscapes blanketed in warm colors while towns host fun harvest festivals. November offers a wide range of food experiences, including chestnut celebrations, while being an off-season month for more budget-friendly accommodation. It’s also a quiet time to be here with few crowds and shorter lines at the top attractions. Around the holidays it will be busier but there will be many fun festivities.
Check out our guide on when to visit Tuscany
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