italian-region-guide-tuscany

Visit Tuscany

From the Renaissance splendour of Florence, where art and history fill every cobbled street, to the golden hills of the Chianti countryside lined with graceful cypress trees, Tuscany embodies the timeless soul of Italy.

In Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, gaze upon masterpieces by Michelangelo and Botticelli, stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, and admire the grand silhouette of Brunelleschi’s Duomo rising above terracotta rooftops. Beyond the city, the region unfolds into a painter’s dream of rolling vineyards, olive groves, and medieval hilltop towns such as Volterra and San Gimignano, their ancient towers standing as proud sentinels over the Tuscan landscape.

Tuscany Region

Venture deeper into Tuscany and you’ll find beauty at every turn, from the Gothic elegance of Siena’s Piazza del Campo to the serene harmony of San Biagio Church in Montepulciano, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture set among gentle hills. Wander the charming walls of Lucca, marvel at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or bask in the seaside allure of Porto Santo Stefano on the Argentario coast. Whether you’re tasting Chianti in a rustic vineyard, exploring centuries of history, or simply soaking in the Tuscan sun, this region invites you to slow down, savour every moment, and embrace la dolce vita in its purest form.

Florence

Florence, the radiant capital of Tuscany, is a city bursting with art, history, and Renaissance beauty.

Perfect for visitors seeking culture, architecture, and timeless Italian atmosphere, Florence enchants at every turn, from grand piazzas and elegant bridges to narrow medieval lanes lined with artisan workshops and cafés.

At its heart lies the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, crowned by Brunelleschi’s magnificent dome and surrounded by masterpieces like Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery of San Giovanni.

Here you can stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, explore the Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Vecchio, or simply wander through sunlit streets filled with art, history, and Florentine flair.

Florence is also world-famous for its craftsmanship and style. Goldsmiths, leather artisans, and tailors uphold traditions that date back centuries, while contemporary boutiques and galleries reflect the city’s enduring creativity.

Elegant squares, riverside terraces, and scenic viewpoints such as Piazzale Michelangelo offer the perfect spots to pause, admire the skyline, and take in the city’s unique blend of cultural richness and Renaissance charm.

Pisa

Let Pisa, one of Tuscany’s most iconic cities, captivate you with its elegant squares, historic streets, and remarkable artistic heritage, set against the timeless beauty of the River Arno.

At its heart lies the Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Baptistery, masterpieces of medieval architecture that define the city’s skyline.

Wander through the city’s atmospheric streets to discover Piazza dei Cavalieri, elegant palazzi, and charming riverside cafés where you can relax and watch local life unfold.

Climb the famous Leaning Tower for unforgettable panoramic views of Pisa’s rooftops and surrounding countryside, or stroll along the Arno River, lined with colorful façades and graceful bridges.

Beyond its monuments, Pisa is home to a vibrant university atmosphere that gives the city a youthful energy. Cultural events, music festivals, and art exhibitions take place throughout the year, while boutique shops and artisan workshops showcase traditional Tuscan crafts and contemporary design. The combination of historical grandeur and lively modern life makes Pisa a city that appeals to both culture lovers and curious explorers.

Volterra

Volterra, perched high in the rolling hills of Tuscany, is one of central Italy’s most captivating historic towns, known for its sweeping views, medieval charm, and timeless atmosphere. The bustling Piazza dei Priori is surrounded by elegant palazzi, lively cafés, and artisan boutiques. From here, you can wander through cobbled streets, admire stone archways and alabaster workshops, or take in panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape stretching toward the sea.

Day trips from Volterra include visits to nearby gems such as San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and the vineyards of Chianti, each offering their own blend of history and flavour.

Volterra is also renowned for its artisan heritage, particularly alabaster craftsmanship. Workshops and studios throughout the town showcase centuries-old techniques, and visitors can watch artisans at work or purchase unique handcrafted pieces as souvenirs.

The town’s museums, including the Etruscan Museum Guarnacci, offer insight into its rich Etruscan and Roman history, making it a hub for both art lovers and history enthusiasts.

The town’s quiet evenings, atmospheric streets, and panoramic terraces provide the perfect backdrop to experience authentic Tuscan life.

Siena

Siena, set among the rolling hills of Tuscany, offers a timeless escape steeped in history, art, and authentic Italian charm. Famous for its stunning medieval architecture and vibrant local traditions, Siena captures the true spirit of Tuscany’s cultural and natural beauty.

At the heart of the city lies the magnificent Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares, where the world-famous Palio di Siena horse race takes place each summer. Surrounding it, winding cobbled streets reveal Gothic palaces, artisan shops, and family-run cafés where time seems to stand still.

Day trips from Siena invite visitors to explore nearby hilltop towns such as San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and Montalcino, as well as the picturesque vineyards of Chianti, known for their world-class wines and scenic drives. The surrounding countryside also offers opportunities for walking, cycling, and discovering centuries-old monasteries and castles.

Local trattorias celebrate Tuscan cuisine at its best from pici pasta and wild boar ragù to pecorino cheese and fine local wines. With its blend of artistic heritage, warm hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes, Siena provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of Tuscany, perfect for culture lovers and explorers alike.

San Gimignano

San Gimignano, the “Town of Fine Towers,” rises majestically above the Tuscan countryside, captivating visitors with its medieval skyline, cobbled streets, and timeless charm.

The heart of the town, Piazza della Cisterna and Piazza del Duomo, is lined with elegant palazzi, artisan shops, and cafés that spill out onto sun-drenched terraces. Explore the Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta with its Renaissance frescoes, climb the Torre Grossa for panoramic views of the surrounding hills, and wander through the winding lanes that tell centuries of history.

Visit nearby gems such as Volterra, Siena, and the Chianti wine region, where vineyards, olive groves, and country roads create the perfect Tuscan landscape. Walking and cycling trails around the town also offer tranquil ways to experience its natural beauty.

Local restaurants and trattorias serve traditional Tuscan specialties, including saffron-infused dishes, handmade pasta, and the renowned Vernaccia di San Gimignano white wine. With its blend of medieval splendor, artistic legacy, and welcoming atmosphere, San Gimignano is a destination that embodies the very essence of Tuscany.

Arezzo

Arezzo is a city where art, history, and tradition intertwine, once an important Etruscan settlement, it now captivates visitors with its grand piazzas, medieval streets, and vibrant cultural life.

Home to Piazza Grande, one of Italy’s most beautiful squares, framed by elegant arcades, historic buildings, and artisan shops. Here, twice a year, the famous Giostra del Saracino (Joust of the Saracen) brings medieval pageantry and excitement to life. Strolling through the old town, you can explore treasures such as the Cathedral of San Donato, Pieve di Santa Maria, and the Basilica of San Francesco, home to Piero della Francesca’s magnificent fresco cycle, The Legend of the True Cross.

Day trips from Arezzo offer the chance to discover nearby gems like Cortona, Montepulciano, and Anghiari, as well as scenic drives through the vineyards and olive groves of the Val di Chiana and Casentino valleys. The surrounding Tuscan villages are perfect for walking, cycling, and exploring.

Local trattorias celebrate Aretine and Tuscan cuisine, from hand-rolled pici pasta and Chianina beef to fine regional wines such as Chianti and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Flights and getting around

The best way to explore Tuscany is by renting a car, giving you the freedom to discover its varied landscapes and coastal beauty of the Maremma and the mountain villages of Garfagnana.

Public transportation in Tuscany is reliable and connects most major towns and cities. Trains link Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Arezzo, and Siena, making it easy to move between cultural and historical centres. Regional buses reach smaller towns and countryside areas, though many of the most picturesque villages and wine routes are best accessed by car.

Taxis are available in larger towns and cities, while walking is often the most enjoyable way to explore historic centers like Florence, Lucca, or Montepulciano, where narrow streets and piazzas reveal local life and hidden treasures.

Flights from the UK: Approximately 2 hours (to Florence or Pisa).
Nearest airports:

Florence Peretola Airport (FLR) — around 20 minutes from the city center, ideal for exploring central Tuscany.
Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA) — about 1 hour from Florence, perfectly placed for reaching the coast and western Tuscany.

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Weather

Tuscany enjoys a pleasantly varied climate, shaped by its diverse landscapes, from the gentle hills and vineyards of Chianti to the coastal breezes of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the cooler mountains of the Apennine range. This mix makes the region an appealing destination throughout the year.

Summer in Tuscany is warm and sun-drenched, with temperatures typically ranging between 25–33°C. It’s the perfect season for exploring Florence’s piazzas, relaxing along the Etruscan Coast, or enjoying al fresco dining in hilltop towns as the sun sets over the vineyards.

Spring and autumn bring mild, comfortable weather, usually 15–25°C — with blooming countryside, colourful foliage, and fewer crowds. These are ideal months for wine tasting in Chianti, cycling through the Val d’Orcia, or discovering the medieval streets of Siena and San Gimignano.

Winter in Tuscany is generally mild along the coast and plains, with cooler temperatures in the hills and mountains, ranging from 5–12°C. It’s a peaceful time for exploring museums and thermal spas, visiting Christmas markets, or skiing in the Apennines.

No matter the season, Tuscany’s balance of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxed pace ensures it remains a rewarding destination year-round.

Top ten attractions in Tuscany…

Florence’s Historic Centre – Visit the Uffizi Gallery or Accademia Gallery to admire masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Pisa & the Leaning Tower – Explore the Piazza dei Miracoli and climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of the world’s most famous architectural icons.
Siena – Wander Gothic streets and visit the impressive Siena Cathedral.
San Gimignano – Known as the “Medieval Manhattan” Entry to its civic museums and towers is ticketed, and guided tours explore its UNESCO-listed centre.
Chianti Wine Region – Rolling hills dotted with vineyards and stone farmhouses. Take a wine tour to visit historic wineries and enjoy tasting Chianti Classico.
Lucca – One of Tuscany’s most charming towns, encircled by intact Renaissance walls. Climb Torre Guinigi for stunning panoramic views.
Val d’Orcia – A postcard-perfect landscape of cypress roads, hilltop towns, and golden fields. Visit Pienza, Montepulciano, and Montalcino for wine cellar tours.
The Florence Duomo Complex – Ascend Brunelleschi’s Dome or visit the Baptistery and Opera del Duomo Museum.
Elba Island – Visit the Museo delle Residenze Napoleoniche or join a boat tour around its coastline.
Volterra – Explore the Etruscan Museum or the Roman Theatre in this atmospheric Etruscan hill town.