Tuscany is the heart of Italy, famous for its rolling hills, medieval towns, and world-class wine. If you have one week to explore this stunning region, this itinerary will take you through charming cities, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences—all while keeping a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival in Florence – The Birthplace of the Renaissance
Begin your Tuscan adventure in Florence, one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.
🌟 Must-See in Florence:
✅ Piazza del Duomo – Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, climb Giotto’s Bell Tower for an incredible view.
✅ Ponte Vecchio – The city’s most iconic bridge, filled with jewelry shops.
✅ Piazza della Signoria – The political heart of Florence, featuring the Palazzo Vecchio.
✅ Uffizi Gallery – Home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. (Book tickets in advance!)
✅ Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo – Enjoy the best panoramic view of Florence.
🍝 Where to Eat: Try the famous bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak) at Trattoria Mario or Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori.
🏨 Where to Stay: Budget-friendly: Plus Florence Hostel | Mid-range: Hotel Davanzati
Day 2: Day Trip to Pisa & Lucca
Take a short train ride (1h) to Pisa to see its famous Leaning Tower.
🌟 Must-See in Pisa:
✅ Piazza dei Miracoli – The Leaning Tower, Baptistery, and Cathedral.
✅ Climb the Leaning Tower (Reserve tickets in advance!).
✅ Walk along the Arno River to see the colorful Lungarni.
After lunch, head to Lucca (30 min by train), a charming walled city.
🌟 Must-See in Lucca:
✅ Walk or bike the city walls – A scenic 4 km path around the historic center.
✅ Piazza dell’Anfiteatro – A unique oval-shaped piazza built on an ancient Roman amphitheater.
✅ Climb Torre Guinigi – A medieval tower with oak trees on top!
🚆 Getting There: Florence → Pisa (1h by train), Pisa → Lucca (30 min by train), Lucca → Florence (1h by train).
Day 3: The Chianti Wine Region – Vineyards & Medieval Villages
Time to explore the Tuscan countryside! Rent a car or join a tour to visit the Chianti wine region, famous for its rolling vineyards and medieval towns.
🌟 Must-Visit in Chianti:
✅ Greve in Chianti – A small town known as the “gateway to Chianti”, perfect for wine tasting.
✅ Castellina in Chianti – A picturesque village with Etruscan ruins and stunning landscapes.
✅ Visit a Winery – Enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard (try Antinori nel Chianti Classico or Castello di Verrazzano).
🍷 Pro Tip: Taste Chianti Classico, the signature red wine of the region, recognizable by the black rooster symbol.
🏡 Where to Stay: Agriturismo Il Borgo di Vescine (for a true countryside experience!).
Day 4: San Gimignano & Volterra – Tuscany’s Medieval Jewels
Explore San Gimignano, the “Medieval Manhattan” of Tuscany, known for its stone towers and incredible views.
🌟 Must-See in San Gimignano:
✅ Piazza della Cisterna – The main square, surrounded by medieval buildings.
✅ Climb Torre Grossa – The tallest tower in town, with spectacular views.
✅ Gelateria Dondoli – Try the best gelato in the world, award-winning!
In the afternoon, head to Volterra, a charming Etruscan hilltop town.
🌟 Must-See in Volterra:
✅ Roman Theatre – An ancient amphitheater from the 1st century BC.
✅ Palazzo dei Priori – The oldest town hall in Tuscany.
✅ Etruscan Museum – Discover Volterra’s Etruscan heritage.
🏡 Where to Stay: Hotel Bel Soggiorno (San Gimignano) or La Locanda (Volterra).
Day 5: Siena – The Gothic Masterpiece
Siena is one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Italy, famous for the Palio horse race.
🌟 Must-See in Siena:
✅ Piazza del Campo – The shell-shaped square, home to the Palio di Siena horse race.
✅ Climb the Torre del Mangia – For breathtaking views over Siena.
✅ Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) – A stunning Gothic cathedral with an incredible marble interior.
🍝 Where to Eat: Try pici cacio e pepe (handmade pasta with cheese and pepper) at Osteria Nonna Gina.
🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Athena (great views and affordable price).
Day 6: Val d’Orcia – The Most Scenic Landscape in Tuscany
Drive to Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage valley with stunning rolling hills and cypress trees.
🌟 Must-See in Val d’Orcia:
✅ Pienza – A Renaissance town known for pecorino cheese.
✅ Montepulciano – Famous for Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (red wine).
✅ Bagno Vignoni – A thermal village with ancient Roman hot springs.
🚗 Pro Tip: Rent a car to enjoy the scenic roads and stop for photo breaks!
Day 7: Return to Florence & Departure
On your last day, enjoy a relaxing morning in Florence.
Optional Activities:
✔️ Boboli Gardens – A beautiful green escape behind Pitti Palace.
✔️ San Lorenzo Market – Pick up souvenirs like leather goods and Tuscan food products.
Final Tips for Your Tuscany Trip
✅ Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
✅ Getting Around: Trains work well for cities like Florence, Pisa, and Siena, but renting a car is best for the countryside.
✅ What to Eat: Try ribollita (Tuscan soup), pappa al pomodoro (tomato bread soup), and cantucci (Tuscan almond cookies with Vin Santo wine).
Tuscany is a dream destination, and with this one-week itinerary, you’ll experience the perfect mix of culture, food, and nature. 🇮🇹
Have you visited Tuscany? Let me know your favorite spots in the comments! 🚗🍷✨