Tuscany is, with good reason, one of Italy's most popular tourist destinations. The region's main attractions include its rich history and art, outstanding cuisine, charming towns, medieval buildings, and breathtaking scenery.
Although exploring all that Tuscany offers is nearly impossible, some experiences can make your stay unforgettable. Below is a 7-day itinerary of memorable activities and fun things you can do in Tuscany.
DAY 1: EXPLORE THE VINEYARDS AND WINE OF CHIANTI
Besides olive oil, Chianti wine is one of the greatest delights of Italian cuisine, and it's almost criminal not to sample it. It is produced in the Chianti wine region of central Tuscany, where the vineyards are known for some of the finest wines in the country.
The Chianti countryside provides tourists with a breathtaking panorama of Tuscany's rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, parishes, and small stone villages. To enjoy the local wines, you can plan wine tastings in wine bars or sample some Tuscan specialties at a restaurant serving delicious food. You can also visit Tuscany's estate wineries and sample their wines for that unique experience.
DAY 2: VISIT POPULAR TUSCAN CITIES
A trip to Tuscany is incomplete without visiting its most renowned cities. One of these is Pisa, with its legendary Leaning Tower, the city's most prominent landmark. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, however, is just one of the main tourist attractions here. The entire Campo dei Miracoli, which is medieval Italy's greatest building project and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also houses the Baptistery and the splendid Il Duomo.
Another impressive city in the Tuscany region is Siena, which UNESCO also recognizes as medieval. The impressive Piazza del Campo (the main square) and the beautiful Siena Cathedral are within it. You can also experience the energy of the Palio di Siena (a horse race that is held biannually) in July and August.
DAY 3: TOUR THE UFFIZI IN FLORENCE
The Galleria degli Uffizi is the heart of Florence, which is unrivaled for art enthusiasts. This historic center is considered by many to have among the finest art collections in Italy, with the three-floor museum holding priceless works, particularly renaissance art. Although a large portion of the work is reserved for scholarly scrutiny, samples from some of the greatest renaissance artists are often displayed in public exhibitions.
Some of the finest pieces include The Birth of Venus by Botticelli and The Adoration of the Magi by Leonardo da Vinci. As expected, the waiting lines are usually long, and you can save yourself some time by booking tickets in advance.
Besides the Uffizi, the Tuscan capital offers other fascinating sights like the Piazza Della Signoria (the focal point of Renaissance Florence’s history), the Florence historic center, and numerous medieval castles.
DAY 4: SOAK IN THE SATURNIA HOT SPRINGS
The region of Saturnia, which is in southern Tuscany, is especially popular for its amazing natural thermal springs. The turquoise pools and the charming waterfalls create the perfect backdrop for visitors to relax. You can bathe comfortably in the healthy springs as you relax and recharge.
DAY 5: TAKE A STROLL ALONG THE BEACH
When most people think of Tuscany, they immediately envision vineyards and rolling hills. However, it also features one of the most beautiful coasts. These beaches are ideal for enjoying the Tuscan sun on a day excursion. Visit the beaches in northern Tuscany to enjoy luxury beach spa towns and resorts. You can also experience the incredible natural reserves and swimming beaches on the southern Tuscany coasts.
Besides that, Tuscany is home to several islands just off the coast. Elba is among the most famous sights, renowned for its coral reef and turquoise waters. Giglio, an often-overlooked island near Elba, offers stunning views and is great for mountain hikes, swimming, and water sports.
DAY 6: TRUFFLE TASTING AND HUNTING
A truffle hunting excursion is an ideal way to explore the forests of Tuscany. You will be accompanied on your truffle hunt by trained dogs and a professional guide and learn how to identify the different species and their ideal habitat.
San Miniato is the place to go for the more daring souls wishing to hunt the largest truffle varieties. If you are fortunate enough to be in Tuscany in November, you can attend the White Truffle Festival in San Miniato and hunt for truffles, purchase truffle-based products, and take a cooking class on how to incorporate them into other traditional dishes.
DAY 7: TAKE A ROAD TRIP THROUGH THE TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE
Tuscany is brimming with cities, medieval towns, and villages worthy of a visit. Since the buses and trains will have trouble reaching the smaller Tuscan towns, you can rent a car and hit the open road! You have the flexibility to stop and explore intriguing sights and other Tuscan cities you discover along the journey when you rent a car.
You can visit Cortona with its breathtaking views over Lago Trasimeno, walk around and explore the beautiful buildings and the ancient walls of Lucca, and walk the streets of San Gimignano. If you want to spice up your trip, ditch the map and let loose on the picturesque back lanes lined with cypress trees.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT HOTEL LE FONTANELLE AND THE CLUB HOUSE
The ideal place to stay as you explore the Tuscan countryside and have a memorable vacation. We offer 5-star accommodation deep in the heart of the Chianti region with a passion for the land and culture. Guests have access to comfortable lodgings, a selection of fine dining restaurants, wine tours and several wellness facilities. Hotel Le Fontanelle and The Club House offer several off-site activities and guided tours to some of the region’s most famous sites.
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