Our guide on the best things to know before visiting Tuscany with the one-week itinerary.
Tuscany, with its rolling hills, vineyards, medieval towns, and artistic heritage, is a must-see region for any traveler exploring Italy. Known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and exquisite cuisine, Tuscany has something to offer every type of visitor.
Whether you’re planning a short visit or a longer stay, this travel guide will help you make the most of your time in Tuscany. Here’s a detailed itinerary along with essential tips and information for visiting this enchanting region.
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Tips for Exploring Tuscany
Stay in an Agriturismo: For an authentic Tuscan experience, consider staying in a countryside farmhouse (agriturismo). It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local life and enjoy farm-to-table meals.
Book Winery Visits in Advance: Many of the popular wineries in Chianti, Montalcino, and Montepulciano require reservations, especially during peak seasons.
Explore Smaller Villages: While the big cities are beautiful, some of the most magical experiences are found in smaller villages like Monteriggioni, Volterra, and Anghiari.
Pace Yourself: Tuscany is best enjoyed slowly. Don’t try to see everything in one day; take time to soak in the scenery, savor local cuisine, and enjoy la dolce vita!
Things to Know Before Visiting Tuscany
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April – June) and Autumn (September – October) are ideal, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. The landscapes are lush and vibrant, making it perfect for sightseeing and vineyard tours.
Summer (July – August) can be very hot and crowded, especially in tourist hubs like Florence and Siena.
Winter (November – March) is less busy, but some attractions and wineries may have limited hours.
Getting Around
Rent a Car: The best way to explore the Tuscan countryside and small villages is by car. Public transport is limited in rural areas.
Trains: Convenient for connecting larger cities like Florence, Pisa, Siena, and Lucca.
Biking: For a more adventurous approach, consider cycling through Tuscany’s scenic trails, especially in the Chianti region.
Driving Tips
Be prepared for narrow roads and sharp turns in the countryside.
Look out for ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) signs in cities like Florence and Siena, which restrict car access in historical areas to locals and authorized vehicles only.
Parking: Always park outside city centers and walk or take public transportation in.
Cuisine & Wine
Try Local Dishes: Tuscan cuisine is hearty and flavorful. Don’t miss ribollita (vegetable soup), pappa al pomodoro, bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), and pici pasta.
Wine Regions: The region is famous for Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Wine tastings are a must!
Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.
Learn a few basic Italian phrases — locals appreciate it!
Best Tuscany Itinerary: 7-Day Journey
This 7-day itinerary covers the region’s most iconic cities, charming hilltop villages, and stunning landscapes, offering a comprehensive experience of Tuscany.
Day 1: Florence – The Renaissance Gem
Morning: Start with the Florence Cathedral (Duomo) and Giotto’s Bell Tower. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city.
Afternoon: Visit the Uffizi Gallery to see masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Evening: Cross the Ponte Vecchio bridge and stroll through the Oltrarno district. Enjoy a traditional Florentine dinner.
Must-Try Dish: Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine Steak).
Day 2: Explore Florence & Day Trip to Fiesole
Morning: Visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David.
Afternoon: Take a short trip to the hilltop town of Fiesole, just 20 minutes from Florence, for Roman ruins and panoramic views.
Evening: Return to Florence and enjoy aperitivo at a local café.
Day 3: Chianti Wine Region
Morning: Drive through the scenic Chianti countryside, famous for its vineyards and charming small towns.
Visit: Stop at Greve in Chianti, a picturesque town known as the gateway to the Chianti region.
Afternoon: Wine tasting at a local chianti winery and explore Castellina in Chianti.
Evening: Dinner at a traditional trattoria in Radda in Chianti, sampling local wines and dishes.
Day 4: Siena & San Gimignano
Morning: Spend the morning in Siena, visiting the Piazza del Campo, Siena Cathedral, and the Torre del Mangia.
Afternoon: Head to San Gimignano, known as the “Medieval Manhattan” for its 14 towers.
Highlights: Climb the Torre Grossa for panoramic views and stroll through the medieval streets.
Evening: Dinner in San Gimignano with a taste of Vernaccia, a local white wine.
Day 5: Val d’Orcia – Pienza, Montepulciano, & Montalcino
Morning: Visit the UNESCO-listed town of Pienza, known for its pecorino cheese and Renaissance architecture.
Afternoon: Continue to Montepulciano for wine tasting, particularly the famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
Late Afternoon: Explore Montalcino, another hilltop town surrounded by vineyards, and sample Brunello di Montalcino.
Evening: Stay in a countryside villa or agriturismo (farmhouse) for a true Tuscan experience.
Day 6: Cortona & Arezzo
Morning: Drive to Cortona, a charming hilltop town with stunning views over the Val di Chiana.
Highlights: Visit Piazza della Repubblica and the Diocesan Museum.
Afternoon: Head to Arezzo, known for its antiques market and artistic heritage.
Evening: Explore Arezzo’s medieval squares and enjoy dinner in a local osteria.
Day 7: Lucca & Pisa
Morning: Start in Lucca, a walled city known for its intact Renaissance walls and charming streets.
Highlights: Walk or bike along the city walls, visit Lucca Cathedral, and enjoy a leisurely stroll through Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.
Afternoon: Drive to Pisa to see the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa and Piazza dei Miracoli.
Evening: Return to Florence or head to your next destination.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.