If you are planning a trip or tour to Italy, Tuscany is a region that absolutely must be included in your plans. Tuscany tours will take you through its beautiful scenery and little hill towns, not to mention it’s many historical cities. The region is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, which is not surprising! There is much to see, art and architecture to appreciate, excellent food and wine, countryside, and beaches.
Should you be interested in booking Tuscany tours, take a look at what Road to Italy has to offer. We are one of the best in the business, and will help you plan Italy vacation packages and private Italy tours that won’t disappoint. If you are still in the planning stages, and are trying to decide exactly where you would like to go, then take a look at this list; these are some of the must-see places in Tuscany.
Florence
Firenze is perhaps the most important centre of Renaissance art and architecture in the world. The city is home to some of Italy’s most beautiful churches, cathedrals, and museums. Be sure to visit the Baptistery and the Duomo when you are there. The compact centro storico will present you with some of the city’s most interesting sights, and there are countless interesting squares and streets to visit. The most famous square in Firenze is the Piazza della Signoria, where you will find a collection of open-air sculptures. Also, don’t miss the copy of Michelangelo’s “David,” which can be found at the Loggia della Signoria. Florence is one of the cities you will not want to skip on your Tuscany tours.
Siena
This is a town that is incredibly famous for its sizeable, fan-shaped main square, or piazza – Piazza del Campo. This classic hill town also hosts a famous horse-race every summer; so you may want to check the dates and coordinate your visit to coincide with Il Palio. Siena really is one of the prettiest medieval settlements in Italy, so be sure to include it in your Tuscany tours. The town is not the hive of activity it once was (like in the 13th and 14th century), but you’ll get the opportunity to appreciate buildings and art from that era.
Pisa
Most foreigners will only think of the “leaning tower of Pisa” when the name of the city is mentioned. However, the city has so much more to offer travelers on Tuscany tours. Exploring the area surrounding the tower and cathedral may take you several hours; it is absolutely beautiful. Pisa was also a great maritime republic, so there are a large number of monuments hailing from that time. There is also the beautiful Arno river, and a number of museums to explore. If you’re the relaxed type and don’t want hectic city or Tuscany tours, Pisa is a lovely city to include on your list.
Lucca
Have you ever heard of Lucca? If not, you should have! This is a must-see on all Tuscany tours. Lucca has incredibly well-preserved city walls. The walls are wide, and at the top you will find walking paths, cycling paths, and quaint gardens. It goes without saying that you will have an amazing view of the city from atop its walls, too. There are even a few towers that you will be able to climb. Additionally, Lucca is a wonderful city for culinary delights and food shopping.
Cortona
If you have read Francis Mayes’ book Under the Tuscan Sun, then you’ll know a little bit about Cortona. It is a little hill town, surrounded by 3000-year-old Etruscan walls. It has layers upon layers of history in its buildings and architecture; if you like medieval buildings, this is the town for you to visit. Additionally it has beautiful views and a warm atmosphere. Interestingly enough, there is also a sizeable ex-pat community in Cortona, so you’ll hear lots of English on this part of your Tuscany tours.
San Gimignano
San Gimignano is another amazing medieval hill town; its walls are well-preserved and it has fourteen medieval towers that have survived to this day. Indeed, San Gimignano is called the “City of Beautiful Towers.” Its skyline is visible from all the surrounding countryside, and it is also located in proximity to a smaller, less touristy hill town. The more historically-inclined would be interested to know that there were originally seventy-two towers in San Gimignano; some were built up to fifty meters high. They were likely used as symbols of wealth and power by rich families. The historic centre of the town is an UNESCO world heritage site. In the middle ages, San Gimignano was an important trade centre, and an important location for pilgrims on the Via Francigena.
Chianti Classico
The wine region known as Chianti Classico is located between Siena and Florence. It is an incredibly interesting area, one which should absolutely be a part of your Tuscany tours. There are quaint villages, gorgeous countryside, and lots of wineries to choose from. Pick a couple of wineries to visit, and enjoy!
Montepulciano
If you’re a wine lover, then your Tuscany tours should really include Montepulciano. The city is known for its incredible wine, and what better location to taste your wine than in the Montalcino castle? Vino Nobile is its most famous wine. Montepulciano is built on a narrow, sloping ridge made of limestone, has one of the most beautiful central piazzas in Tuscany, and is home to numerous impressive Renaissance buildings.
Pienza & Val D’Orcia
Pienza is a pretty town, located in Val D’Orcia in Tuscany. It is well-known for its superb pecorino cheese. Pope Pius II was born in Pienza in the 15th century, and his family home, the Palazzo Piccolomini, attracts many tourists. This palace is situated in the middle of the town, near the Cathedral. Pienza is also an UNESCO world heritage site, and offers amazing views of the Val D’Orcia.
Montecatini Terme
This is the last location on our list, but it is certainly no less impressive than the others. Seriously consider including Montecatini Terme in your Tuscany tours; it is home to classic, historical spas. Appreciate the Liberty-style architecture at Terme Tettuccio, and enjoy the daily musical performances. It is a very relaxed place to visit and enjoy. Another attraction is its funicular railway that will take you to Montecatini Alto, on top of the hill.
Book Your Tuscany Tours With Road to Italy
There are just so many amazing locations to visit in Tuscany; it can be hard to choose between them. Depending on how long your tour is, you may be able to squeeze quite a number in! If you are traveling soon, booking with Road to Italy is a great option. We offer Tuscany wine tours, customized Tuscany tours, private Italy tours, and more. No matter what your schedule or your budget, we will be sure to find a package that matches your interests. Don’t hesitate to call Road to Italy; our friendly English-speaking staff will be happy to help.
