Tuscany in Italy is a dreamy region full of picturesque towns and cultural treasures that have made it really difficult to rank the best places to visit. When we arrived in Tuscany, we immediately understood why this region is known and especially loved worldwide. We've done our best to provide you with a guide that includes all important highlights and puts an end to your search.
The region can be easily divided into North and South and is packed with highlights that you shouldn't miss out on. It is recommended to travel with your own car or rent a car in advance, as Tuscany is quite large and the individual highlights are sometimes an hour apart. However, due to the picturesque landscape, every car trip was also a highlight in itself.
A visit to Tuscany would be incomplete without a trip to Florence. The City is a Center for Art, Culture and Architecture and offers highlights such as the Uffizi Gallery, the Palazzo Vecchio and the Historic Old Town. However, due to its importance and popularity, Florence can get very busy, so it's best to buy tickets in advance. We were here both in August and May, although May was a much better experience. Many tourists only visit the city for one day, which is definitely too short. Florence simply has a lot to offer, so it won't be boring even after several days.
Wow! We knew in advance that the region was the rural figurehead of Tuscany. But everyone must experience the beauty of Val d'Orcia for themselves. The region is located south of Siena and offers not only breathtaking scenery but also picturesque villages such as Pienza. This region is also known for its culinary specialities, such as pecorino cheese and Brunello wine. But at the heart are, of course, the many postcard motifs. The picturesque hills make Val d'Orcia a highlight of every trip to Tuscany. My personal highlight was the two photo stops where the cinema masterpiece 'Gladiator' was filmed. This is where even the toughest men get weak.
Podere Belvedere
One of the most famous photo opportunities in Tuscany
Agriturismo Poggio Covili
The Most Beautiful Cypress Alley
Genna Borborini Maria Eva — The Gladiator Alley
The only way to take a photo here is to shoot through the gate - still a must for fans
The “Elysian Realms” from Gladiator
One of the most famous scenes from the movie Gladiator was filmed near the town of Pienza. From the Car Park at the Historic Church of Pieve dei Santi Vito e Modesto a Corsignano, follow a short dirt road down into the valley. After about ten minutes, you will reach the beautiful scenery, from which you have a breathtaking view of the Val d'Orcia and a piece of film history.
Grab a blanket and some wine and have a little sunset picnic at Gladiator Hill. There were people here from time to time during the day, but in mid-May we had the entire hill to ourselves as it headed towards sunset, which made the whole moment simply magical.
Siena, about 70 kilometers from Florence, is known for its well-preserved medieval old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Piazza del Campo, the Gothic Cathedral and the Annual Horse Race “Palio di Siena” are just a few of the highlights that this city has to offer and make it an absolute must.
Montepulciano is known for its great wines and Renaissance architecture. The Town is situated on a hill and offers numerous wine cellars and wine tastings that make a visit worthwhile. Since Montepulciano is located quite high up, you won't be able to miss out on a magnificent view. For all Twilight fans, there is also an extra plus point here, as the film “New Moon” from the Vampire Saga was filmed here.
San Gimignano, often referred to as the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages,” impresses with its 12 towers and well-preserved old town. The city is situated between Florence and Siena and offers truly picturesque views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside. In this charming city, you'll be teleported to a bygone era as you stroll around.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is probably one of Italy's most famous sights. The Free-Standing Bell Tower of Pisa Cathedral attracts visitors from all over the world. We didn't think that a leaning tower could be so surprising. In fact, it's just a leaning tower, but seeing this little wonder live surprised us a lot more than we thought. Climbing the Tower is an unforgettable experience that you shouldn't miss. It's also worth meandering past the crowds of tourists and strolling through the alleys of Pisa.
Saturnia's Hot Springs are a truly magical place to relax. You can either stay at a luxurious spa hotel or bathe in the natural pools for free. The Sulphurous Springs are pleasantly warm all year round. These sources are anything but a secret tip and yet the trip there is still worth it. Our tip is, of course, to avoid peak times and visit the springs either early in the morning or in the evening.
Bagni San Filippo is our secret tip for hot spring lovers. The natural pools are less well-known than the springs in Saturnia and are no less impressive. Impressive limestone formations and a unique bathing experience in the midst of nature await you here.
Lucca is a charming city with a well-preserved old town and a completely intact city wall where you can walk. The Tower of Palazzo Guinigi with its roof garden offers an impressive view of the city. We were surprised how many great shopping opportunities Lucca offers. Sometimes we had the feeling of being in a small mini-room. This place just sparkles with La Dolce Vita.
Cortona is another Hollywood star from the movie “Under the Tuscan Sun.” The Town offers medieval alleys and fantastic views of the Tuscan countryside. Via Nazionale and Piazza della Repubblica are particularly worth seeing.
Vinci is the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci and a must for art and history buffs. The City offers an Exhibition of Leonardo's Inventions and the Birthplace of the Famous Polymath.
Arezzo, often overlooked and yet a Tuscan gem, impresses with its rich art and history. In particular, the Basilica of San Francesco with Frescoes by Piero della Francesca and the Majestic Piazza Grande are absolute highlights. Arezzo is also known for its monthly antique market, which attracts visitors from all over the world. Discover this picturesque place, ideal for strolling and relaxing.
Garfagnana is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The region offers deep forests, high mountains and sights such as the Devil's Bridge and Grotta del Vento. Here you can burn all the calories from eating gelato with ease.
