Summary
Why Visit Tuscany
Tuscany tops bucket lists worldwide for many reasons, not just its legendary wine. The region’s rolling landscapes, charming hilltop towns, and the magnificent capital city of Florence are sure to captivate every traveler. Thus, Tuscany presents itself as the perfect Italian vacation destination.
Here are the top things to see and do in Tuscany, Italy.
1. Florence
Florence stands out as one of the world’s most esteemed cities for art. Names like Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Da Vinci not only define Renaissance art but also embody the essence of Florence itself.
These remarkable artists contributed to giving Florence its nickname as the Cradle of the Renaissance. Their legacies live on within the city: Michelangelo’s David resides at the Galleria dell’Accademia, primarily dedicated to this iconic masterpiece, while many renowned works of Botticelli and Da Vinci can be admired in Florence’s Uffizi Gallery.
Suggested Things to do in Florence
Don’t miss the chance to see David, wander across Ponte Vecchio, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from Piazzale Michelangelo.
Get Your Guide offers great tours around Florence.
Timed entrance to see Michelangelo’s David – The lines can be long, making it essential to have a set time to admire David.
Guided Duomo Climb – As the centerpiece of Florence, joining a guided tour allows you to learn about the Duomo while taking in stunning city views.
A Walking Tour of Florence – This is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the city.
2. The Food
Tuscan food is unforgettable, featuring incredible pasta, hearty soups like pappa al pomodoro, and famous meat dishes such as bistecca alla fiorentina. Writing about Tuscany is sure to make anyone’s mouth water.
The cuisine of Tuscany is delicious and inherently unpretentious, relying on local ingredients prevalent in the region: tomatoes, bread, and pork play a prominent role, along with pasta.
Moreover, gelato originated in Florence, and the gelato found in Tuscany remains among the best in the world.
Tuscan Food to Try: In addition to pasta and bread staples, savor unique offerings like cannellini beans, handmade spaghetti, and ribollita – a delightful vegetable and bread-based soup.
… And the wine is divine.
3. The Tuscan Wine
Tuscany is renowned as one of the world’s premier wine regions, showcasing several distinct wine areas and subregions, each with its unique climate, grapes, and traditions.
Even someone with limited wine knowledge can quickly develop a preference for Chiantis, Chianti Classicos, and Super Tuscans after experiencing Tuscany.
The passion for wine is palpable within the region, often because visitors find themselves enjoying more wine than they typically would in their everyday lives. If time is limited, consider taking a wine tour of Tuscany, which includes visits to various wineries with convenient transportation, guidance, and eight glasses of wine for around $60 USD.
4. Adventure
Contrary to the notion that Tuscany is just a cultural hub, it also offers ample opportunities for adventure. Art, history, food, and wine are compelling reasons to visit, but Tuscany is also home to thrilling activities.
Adventure ideas for Tuscany:
- Go for a long hike in the mountains.
- Rent a Vespa and cruise through the stunning countryside on a beautiful day.
- Visit naturally formed hot springs – Popular spots include Bagno Vignoni, Bagni San Filippo, Petriolo, and Saturnia.
- Experience a hot air balloon ride – Get Your Guide offers several experiences from various cities.
- Go scuba diving – With over 250 miles of coastline, numerous dive centers can be found between Livorno and Argentario, with diving opportunities on the islands of Elba, Argentario, and Giglio.
- Try your hand at paragliding.
In Tuscany, adventure awaits every type of traveler, from the thrill-seeking to the more leisurely explorer.
5. Tuscany is Packed with History
Tuscany is steeped in a rich and captivating history. With seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a heritage that dates back to the Bronze Age, the region is overflowing with historical significance.
Spanning significant periods from the Bronze and Iron Ages to Etruscan times, Roman rule, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and beyond, the inhabitants of Tuscany have forged a close relationship with their stunning homeland, and history reverberates across the ages.
It’s a unique experience to stroll through towns that gained wealth through Roman trading, as you will in San Gimignano, or dine in a city like Volterra, which has been inhabited for 2,500 years.
6. Perfect for a Road Trip
Tuscany is an idyllic destination for a road trip. While cities like Florence and Siena are famed for their beauty, the true treasures of Tuscany often lie in its lesser-known areas.
This safe region, characterized by a relatively low population density outside major urban spots, makes it an ideal place for leisurely drives. You can discover small villages not accessible by train, stop by quaint vineyards and farms, and revel in the enchanting rolling countryside.
If you seek a different road-tripping experience, consider a journey to the coast for breathtaking Mediterranean scenery!
For those eager to explore UNESCO sites, they are easily accessible throughout Tuscany, offering plenty of adventures for history aficionados.
Tuscany boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from the well-known (Florence and the Square of Miracles in Pisa) to the lesser-known (Val dorcia and Pienza), making the hunt to visit them an exciting quest.
Renting a car to explore Tuscany’s wonders is undoubtedly the best approach. You can get a quote from Rental Cars Connect.
7. Off the Beaten Path
Exploring off the beaten path in Tuscany is entirely achievable. While Tuscany is a well-trodden destination, it remains a vast region that can provide a more unique experience.
Covering nearly 23,000 square kilometers, Tuscany contains a multitude of villages, vineyards, hiking trails, and coastal gems waiting to be uncovered.
Whether your desire is to witness iconic landmarks such as Pisa or to wander into the serene countryside (or both), it’s certainly possible to find your personal piece of Tuscany.
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