Tuscany's most popular attractions

Things to go and see if you visit Tuscany for the first time.

There are plenty of beautiful towns and places in Tuscany which are all worth a visit: the golden triangle with the cities of art of Florence, Siena and Arezzo; the most beautiful historic towns, or the extensive coastline and the islands of Elba and Giglio. Where do you begin if you are in Tuscany for the first time?
This is the list of the most famous places in Tuscany. Make sure you visit these places to become familiar with Italy's most attractive region, Tuscany.

1. FLORENCE

Florence, Ponte Vecchio

Magical, historical, beautiful, ... There aren't enough words to describe the beauty of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Piazza della Signoria, the Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio, everything is worth a visit in Florence. If you stay a few days in Florence, the highlights are definitely the Uffizi Museum, the Galleria dell'Accademia where you can admire David, Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens and the town hall Palazzo Vecchio. Florence is not only known for its art but it is also a great city if you like shopping. You will find a range of luxury boutiques and shops, where you will find the famous Made in Italy labels. You can also visit the Designer Outlet Village in Barberino di Mugello.

2. PISA 

Besides Florence also Pisa is definitely worth a visit. Pisa triggers your imagination with Piazza dei Miracoli, the cathedral, but most of all with the Torre Pendente or Leaning Tower. The 14th-century tower is almost 60m high and the top of the tower is displaced horizontally about 4 metres. 

3. CHIANTI

The extensive vineyards and olive groves on the beautiful rolling hills around Florence are typical of the Chianti region. Here you can go for endless exploration trips by car or by bike. This area is a paradise for those who love fine wines and delicious food. You can follow different routes. The Chianti Classico route along Greve in Chianti, Gaiole and Castellina is a real must.

4. SIENA

Siena, Duomo

Don't forget to spend at least a day in Siena if you are visiting Tuscany. Siena has a unique charm. The beautiful square of Piazza del Campo is known worldwide because twice a year the Palio is held there. From this shell formed square you can admire the beautiful 88 metres high Torre del Mangia. Finally, don't forget to visit the black-and-white cathedral with its spectacular interior.

5. SAN GIMIGNANO

San Gimignano is called the Medieval Manhattan. It is one of the most beautiful hill towns of Tuscany. Typical for San Gimignano are the many stone towers and the narrow streets, surrounded by a hilly landscape with vineyards where the famous white wine Vernaccia is produced.

6. VOLTERRA

Volterra is a walled city with a well conserved history. Evidence of this history can be found in the Medieval and Renaissance buildings, the Roman theater and the Etruscan ruins. Be sure to visit Piazza dei Priori, Palazzo Pretorio, the Romanesque cathedral and the amphitheater. Volterra is known for his alabaster, a soft stone which is easy to sculpt. There are many shops where small and bigger pieces of art in alabaster are sold.

7. AREZZO

Arezzo is an ancient city with a well-preserved city centre. The world famous film "Life is Beautiful" with Roberto Benigni was recorded here.
Piazza Grande is a good starting point for a city tour. You can see the gallery Loggiato Vaseriano, Palazzo delle Logge and Arezzo's most important treasure, the cycle of frescoes by Piero della Francesca, which is called the History of the True Cross. Every first Sunday of the month and the Saturday before you can go for a stroll on the largest antique market of Tuscany in Arezzo.

8. MONTERIGGIONI
In the countryside around Siena you find another beautiful Tuscan hill town: Monteriggioni.
The town is interesting from both architectural and cultural perspective. Even Dante Alighieri wrote about Monteriggioni in the Divine Comedy. Once you have entered the medieval gates, you are right in the heart of the town. Each year in July there is a medieval festival in Monteriggioni which is really worth discovering! 

9. VAL D'ORCIA

When you think of Tuscany, you surely think of green fields, vineyards, rolling hills and sunflowers. All this can be found in the area of Val d'Orcia.
The area stretches from Mount Amiata to the southern hills surrounding Siena and is known for towns such as Montepulciano, Pienza, Montalcino and Bagno Vignoni. The whole area is recognized as a natural Unesco World Heritage Site. If you fancy typical Tuscan cheese, make sure to stop by in the town of Pienza. Wine lovers will be glad to discover well known wines as Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montepulciano and much more.

10. LUCCA

Lucca is also known as the city of the 100 churches and is famous for its perfectly preserved 16th century city walls. The 4 km long hiking trail on the walls with a view of the city is really a must.

Bell Tower of the cathedral of Lucca

Make sure to visit the Roman amphitheater, the Basilica of San Frediano, the church and the square of San Michele, the cathedral of San Martino with the Holy face, the Guinigi Tower, Via Fillungo and finally the Doge's Palace on Piazza Napoleone. Have a good look at the window holes in the bell tower of the cathedral. 

A few tips: when planning your excursions in Tuscany make sure to check the opening hours of museums, shops, restaurants, ... In Italy opening hours are different than in your country. Don't plan too much, try to enjoy as much as you can. Tuscany is a beautiful region! 

Villa with pool in Tuscany in Buonconvento Siena