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How to travel around tuscany by train.

Traveling around Tuscany by train is a good way to discover the beauties of our region. If you are scared of driving a car along the roads of the Belpaese, trains allow you to move around comfortably sit in your seat, and admire the different landscapes rolling out of the window.

The connection between the main cities of Tuscany by train is great. You can easily go from/to Florence and Pisa , Lucca , or Siena , and move up and down along the coastline. Instead, it could be more difficult to reach rural areas and small villages due to the lack of train stations. In this case, do not worry. Usually, public buses run between these hamlets and the closest rail stations.

In Italy, there are two main train companies. Trenitalia provides high-speed trains (the Frecce ), and also a widespread coverage of the territory with national and local trains. The other company, Italo , operates only with high-speed trains connecting the main Italian cities.

Tuscany by train: how to do it

Here is a map of the Tuscan railway line. Trenitalia provides the service mainly with Regionale trains, as well as some Intercity IC trains running along the coast.

Trenitalia railway system tuscany by train

Instead, this is the map of the high-speed railway line provided by Italo .

Italo Trains, maps of the train stations

Main railway stations in Tuscany

The station of Firenze Santa Maria Novella (Firenze SMN) is the main railway terminal of the region. It is located along the route between Rome and Milan. From Firenze SMN you get high-speed trains to Milan, Bologna, Rome, Naples ( Frecciarossa or Italo ), and Venice ( Frecciargento ).

Taking a Regionale train instead, you can reach all the corners of the region. From Florence, in approximately one hour, you can be in the Piazza Grande of Arezzo, or walk along the walls of Lucca . But you also reach the coast where you can rest in the sun in Livorno, or take a picture with the leaning tower in Pisa . To get a plane , trains also lead to Pisa International Airport Galileo Galilei .

Pisa Centrale is another important station being a crossroad between the line coming from Florence and the coastal train route. Also, if you land at Pisa Airport, every 7 minutes, the train shuttle “Pisa Mover” runs from/to the central station. The journey takes only 5 minutes, and you can buy tickets directly on the platform from the ticket machines. From there, catch a train to reach your final destination in Tuscany by train. If you buy your ticket online You can enter Pisa Airport as your departure station and select your destination. This way you will also receive the Pisa Mover ticket directly to your email.

Explore the coast of Tuscany by train

The coastal railway line connects the main seaside resorts of Tuscany: Viareggio, Pietrasanta , Forte dei Marmi , Massa, and Carrara along the Riviera of Versilia ; Livorno, Castiglioncello, Cecina , Campiglia on the Etruscan Coast ; Follonica and Grosseto in Maremma. Moreover, if you take the south direction, you can reach Rome and Fiumicino International Airport. Instead, going north, you reach Cinque Terre , Genoa, and Milan.

Heading to Siena

Departing from Florence SMN, some daily Regionale trains are heading to Siena . Instead, if you are in Pisa or Lucca, you have to get the train to Empoli, get off, and change locomotive. On the way, if you have time, do not forget to stop in Monteriggioni , one of our favorite villages in Tuscany . If you are heading to San Gimignano, stop in Poggibonsi and get a bus. From the southern Maremma, you can get a train to Grosseto or Montepescali.

Drink and don’t drive: Chianti by Train

Reaching Chianti by train is not that easy, but it’s not impossible. The only two train stations of the “shire” where the famous red wine is made are Poggibonsi and Castellina . They are both along the route between Empoli and Siena. From these points, you can catch a bus to reach the villages you wish to visit without getting worried if you drink one glass too many.

A train crossing the italian countryside

Getting to Val d’Orcia

If you decide to visit this fairytale part of Tuscany by train, there are two stations: Montepulciano and Buonconvento .

Montepulciano is on the line between Siena and Chiusi/Chianciano Terme. Buonconvento is on the line that connects Siena to Montepescali in Maremma.

From there, you can proceed by bus to Pienza, Montalcino, San Quirico d’Orcia, and all the other nearby villages listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites of Tuscany .

For the bus connections, check here .

Getting to Mugello

To reach the beautiful nature of Mugello in the northeastern part of Tuscany from Florence, you need to get the regional train that goes to Faenza (in Emilia Romagna ). The main places are S. Piero a Sieve, Borgo San Lorenzo, and Marradi. If I were you I would not miss visiting the area in autumn when they celebrate the chestnuts, the traditional fruit of the fall, with many Sagra where you can taste it in many different ways and recipes.

Explore Garfagnana and Lunigiana

You can easily cross the wild and mountainous areas of Garfagnana and Lunigiana by taking a Regional train from Lucca or Aulla. Along this rail line, there are many places off the beaten path to discover. Borgo a Mozzano is known for the Devil’s Bridge and the Halloween festival . Barga is famous for being one of the most beautiful villages of Tuscany and for the summer jazz festival.

Take a look at our LITTLE GUIDE FOR GARFAGNANA IN ITALY

In Equi Terme, you can be an explorer for a day at the Geo-Archaeological Park, and during Christmas, visit the suggestive living nativity scene along the alleys of the village and into the grotto.

Castelnuovo Garfagnana and Fivizzano are other two lovely villages to stop for a visit to their castles and taste delicious traditional food.

The train station of Aulla in Lunigiana tuscany by train

How to get to Tuscany by train from the main Italian Airports

From bologna airport (blq).

If you do not land directly in Tuscany, the closest and most comfortable airport to fly to is the Bologna International “Marconi” Airport . Every 11 minutes, a shuttle bus connects the airport to the Central Rail Station. From there you can choose a Frecciarossa that will bring you to Florence SMN in less than an hour.

From Milan Airports

Milano malpensa (mpx).

The International Airport of Milano Malpensa (MPX) is connected with the railway terminal of Milano Centrale by the Malpensa Express train or the Malpensa Shuttle bus .

Linate Airport (LIN)

If you land at Linate Airport in Milan , you can reach in about 30 minutes the central rail station by AirBus.

Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY)

Flibco.com shuttle bus service connects Bergamo Orio al Serio airport with Milan Central in a fast, economical, and reliable way. You can book your seat in advance using Flibco’s online system or their app. Buses are running from 07:10 AM to 11:25 PM. Plus, by booking in advance online you get access to even more affordable prices!

Once in Milano Centrale Terminal, head to Florence with Frecciarossa , or Italo . Instead, if your destination is the coast (Carrara, Massa, Viareggio, Pisa, Livorno) there are many options between the Frecciabianca , the Intercity, or Regionale trains.

From Rome Airport Fiumicino (FCO)

From the International Airport Leonardo da Vinci of Fiumicino (FCO) in Rome , take the non-stop shuttle train Leonardo Express provided by Trenitalia. Every 15 minutes it connects the airport to Roma Termini station. From there you can choose to reach Tuscany by high-speed trains (Italo, Frecciarossa, or Frecciargento) or by Regionale Veloce train.

How to buy tickets to travel to Tuscany by train

You can buy your tickets online on Trenitalia and Italo websites or directly at the train stations. Consider that only the biggest towns have a ticket office, while most of the small stations have only ticket machines and ticket desks open only a few hours per day.

What about rates? High-speed trains are not so cheap, especially if you buy tickets close to departure. Instead, if you book in advance you can find nice prices and special offers. I suggest you look at both websites as they always do offers (for example Saturday and Sunday offers, train + car offers …).

Online tickets are personal and only the named person can travel with them. You do not need to print them out but you need to make the check-in before getting on board, using the link you get by email. The only thing you need is the PNR code to show in case of control. This rule works for all kinds of trains.

Paper tickets bought at the train station need to be validated at the specific machine before departure (in Italian we say obliterare il biglietto ), otherwise, you can incur a penalty.

A Helpful Train Glossary in Italian

We end this post with a short glossary with Italian words that may help you organize your trip and also once in Italy.

Frecciarossa: the fastest high-speed train in the country. It reaches 300 km/h (186 mi/h) of speed making easier the connections between the main cities of Italy in only a few hours.
Frecciargento : comfortable fast trains that run both along the high-speed and normal railways. They reach a maximum speed of 250 km/h (155 mi/h).
Intercity and FrecciaBianca: fast comfortable trains that run along the normal railroads
Regionale: slow trains that stop at every station and allow visitors to reach even small destinations.
Regionale Veloce: local trains that go faster than Regionale and do not stop at all stations along the railway.
Treni in Arrivo: arrivals.
Treni in Partenza: departures.
Binario: platform.
In orario: on time.
In ritardo: delayed.
Obliterare: Validate the ticket at the specific machine in the train station.

For other handy information about traveling in Italy by train, take a look here at this post written by the Italian Storyteller Eleonora. If you have any other questions, leave a comment and I will be glad to help you out.

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Cover Photo credit: Trenitalia Press Office

(Updated on 5 February 2024)

Nicola Bandini

I have a passion for travels and photography, puzzles and Lego, beer and Fiorentina (both bistecca and football team). Always happy when I get a flight ticket on my hand. Proudly Tuscan, one of my desires is to show people the hidden gems of my birthland!

41 thoughts on “ How to travel around Tuscany by train ”

Thank you for the mention!

Sorry for big delay!!! It was a pleasure to mention you. 🙂

Great tips. We love hiring a car to drive to stations and catching trains in Tuscany. We love this means that we can stay more rurally

There are some area where it is better to have the car (the south), other well connected by train (especially between Florence and the coast). 🙂

What a very good idea to go by train. Both because the wine is great, and drinking doesn’t work if you stop at the vineyards. But also the twisty Tuscany roads are better suited to walking or bicycles than driving – they made me barfy! So I kind of wish we’d taken the train instead of driving on those mountain roads.

Taking bicycle or walking white roads as the pilgrim route of Via Francigena is a good way to explore the rural areas. Trains are good especially to connect the bigger town. but you can stop in Montepulciano to taste great red wines! 🙂

A helpful resource for those wanting to travel by train in Tuscany. We have traveled through Italy in a few ways, but train is probably the way we have traveled most. Italy is really well connected, the only issue we had is that the trains (especially in smaller towns) were often not on schedule! 😉

Delays are the biggest problems for Regionale trains. it is very disappointing, for travelers but also for locals who use trains to go work and back home.

Travelling through Europe by train is a delight. And talking of Tuscany, the stunning countryside and the visions of hilltop castle towns is a treat for the eyes. Trains are the best way to experience this part of Italy.

You don’t have to worry about the traffic and parking. a relaxing way of traveling which is the best to explore Tuscany.

Very useful post! My father and stepmother recently returned from Italy and did lots of train travel around the Lucca/Pisa etc area, not always completely smoothly – so this would have been useful to them!

The area you mentioned should be well connected. Anyway it is common that trains can have delays, especially the Regionale ones. Hope they enjoyed anyway.

I very recently did Tuscany by car. An amazing experience as well! Although I can see the advantages of the train, like the Chianti drinking! 🙂 Looks like an amazing trip!

To go deep in the countryside, car is still the best way cause you are more flexible, but you have to worry about drinking, speed limits, traffic and parking. trains are easier. 🙂 Happy you enjoyed our region. 🙂

We love traveling by train in Italy especially between Venice and Tuscany and around the Cinque Terre. There’s lots of good information here, especially the tip about validating your tickets or incurring a fine. I can’t tell you how many tourists we’ve seen that it’s happened to. It’s a great way and easy way to get around your beautiful country!

Locations you mentioned are really well connected and also locals you trains. 🙂 So happy you enjoyed our country. hope you can come back soon.

Traveling via train is my absolute favorite way to travel! This post is quite informative – thanks for including the map and the timetables. This would be a great way to get around if you were doing wine tastings, as you wouldn’t have to worry about driving. Do you find that the prices for train travel are more expensive than other destinations in Europe? Or how do they compare?

I think that in other European countries trains are more expensive but, to be honest, probably they give a better service to customers in terms of punctuality, comfort and cleanliness.

We explored Tuscany by car a few years ago and I absolutely loved the experience of the road trip. However, travelling by train also seems like a brilliant idea! Especially to Pisa, I think it makes sense to go by train and even to Chianti, so that you can enjoy some wine tasting and don’t have to drive after that! What we didn’t do and I would love to experience that in the future is the coastal rail. I’m sure the views would be breathtaking!

I come from the coastal side. I can only say: come! 🙂

The only trains we rode on in Italy were the Cinque Terre train and the train from Milan to Lake Como. We thought about using trains for more of our Italy adventure, but ended up using a rental car because our schedule was so jam-packed and it would have been very difficult to keep the schedule going by train! Still, train travel sounds so relaxing and romantic!

With cars you are more flexible, so your choice make sense. Depending on where people go, I suggest to do a mix of both.

Tuscany is absolutely magical. And with nights filled with delicious Italian vino, a train is the only civilized way to travel. You’ve provided fantastic information that I could even follow after downing a few too many glasses! Cheers!

In case there are no trains anymore at night, get a cab! 🙂 Cheers!

Trying to determine the best way to get from Florence Airport to Marriot Hotel (Via Giovanni Pascoli, Castelvecchio Pascoli Barga Lucca 55051 Italy). Train? Shuttle? Then, the following day after arriving, finding a tour of the local area sights.

Rent a car is the best way. Also because you can easily move across the area, called “Garfagnana”. It is plenty of nice places to see (Barga, Castelnuovo Garfagnana, Vagli Lake, Orecchiella Natural Park…). The hotel is surrounded by nature and the biggest closest town is Lucca. A private transfer from Florence Apt to Il Ciocco Marriot hotel costs about € 200,00 each way. Train is an option but it takes time. From Florence APT, you need to take the tram to Florence SMN Train Station. Then get a train to Lucca. From Lucca another train to Barga/Gallicano train station. From there, ask the hotel for a shuttle. Another option may be to reach Lucca by train (from Florence Central Rail station) and then get a private transfer to the Hotel.

Please tell me what train line is best to take from Rome airport to Luca in Tuscany. The name of the stops to watch for so I will know where to get off. Do I need a transfer? Thank you if you can help

Dear Elaine, many thanks for the comment. There are a few options but the easiest way is this one: From FCO Rome Airport you take the train shuttle to Roma Termini Central Rail Station. From Roma Termini, you get the IC Intercity fast train to Pisa Centrale. From Pisa Centrale, you take the “Regionale” Train that in less than 30 minutes arrives in Lucca. A transfer from Roma to Lucca may be quite expensive but obviously is the fastest and more comfortable way. Feel free to drop me a private message at [email protected] if you need other info.

Nicola – great article! Need your advice now. We are traveling from Rome to Chiusi/Chianciano Terme and staying at agritourismo Casa di Fabbrini fron June 3-June 9. We will not have a car. What destination/activity suggestions do you have for us by train? We definitely want to do a wine tasting and we would love to do a Vespa or e-Bike tour. We have looked at a bunch of options but I am curious as to what local insight you can offer. Any information you provide would be much appreciated!

Dear Melissa, happy that our article is helpful for you. Being close to San Casciano dei Bagni I would not miss a bath in their hot springs. By train, you can easily reach Arezzo, which is quite close and is a lovely town not so touristic. You can also go to Florence for a day. By bus from Chiusi, you can go to Montepulciano, another unmissable town where you can also take wine tasting. Regarding activities, in addition to checking online, I would recommend you contact Casa Fabbrini directly. I am sure they have plenty of ideas, and contacts and they will be pleased to assist you with reservations. (I also work in hospitality in northern Tuscany and I am always happy to help my Guests so, I am sure the Staff in Casa Fabbrini will do the same).

Dear Nicola, this is so cool that we can get suggestions and advise from a local and expert. My daughter and I will be travelling in Tuscany this October. We are planning on flying into Florence from there we would like to travel the perimeter of Tuscany to visit the hot spots and off the beaten path bus routes. Any suggestions, we are interested in pottery and local spots. How do we accomplish this via train and bus?

Hey Jennie, thanks for leaving a comment. Nice to hear you are coming to Tuscany next October. I think you can see many things traveling around by bus and train. Obviously, you won’t be able to reach isolated small villages but still, you can see beautiful places. From Florence, you quickly get to Pistoia, Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano ( https://mytravelintuscany.com/from-florence-to-san-gimignano/ ), Lucca, the coast with the towns of Viareggio and Pietrasanta. Then, it depends on how many days you have at your disposal.

Hello Nicola,

We are a family of 9 coming to Lucca in May. We have an apartment in the city center but would much prefer a villa with views and the opportunity to enjoy the Tuscan hills. However we do not want to drive. Do you know if any villas that are close enough, within 1km or so, to train stations in any of the small towns in Tuscany where we should look? There are so many places online to look but they do not say how far from a train station or even if there is a train station close by. We of course are happy with our apartment and love staying within the city or town, but have don’t any many times and we’re hoping for one time in the countryside but close to the train. Any ideas for us to consider? Thanks for all the help you give on here, it’s a brilliant site!

Dear Darren, many thanks for your words about our website. We appreciate. A countryside villa next to a train station is not easy to find. You can take a look at Camaiore, which is also not far from Lucca. In the area, I think there are villas to rent and there is a train station in Lido di Camaiore. Also, Pietrasanta has the same. They both are quite popular summer destinations but may is even better because the weather may be wonderful.

Hello, I love your website!! staying in Florence and would like to take a train or bus on our own to a winery. Castello Vicchiomaggio will be closed due to renovations. Can you please share what other wineries, in Tuscany, we can reach by bus or train. We searched online and could only find Castello V. Thank you so much!!!

Hey Dawn, thanks for the comment. Unfortunately, I cannot help you with the wineries’ names because I do not know them. But I am sure that every place can arrange a transfer for you from the nearest train or bus station to the hotel/winery. I am sure you can find lovely accommodation around towns such as Siena, San Gimignano, Certaldo or Montepulciano. You can reach all these towns by bus or train.

Ciao Nicola Great post and very very helpful. I am forcing and taking my friends to Val d’Orcia in their otherways ‘tour’ of regular Italy and would be grateful if you could help with your input. I can get train from Siena to Montepulciano, and from there can get local buses to go to Montichiello .. Is there a particular bus stop you would suggest in which we get down to view that vvvv famous view of Val d’Orcia road. I am also a photographer and hoping you know exactly which place. Please correct me if my above plan wont work. I would love to stay in any of these Borgos, but am worried about the cost being too high and hence staying in Siena. Would you suggest any other stops too, which would be a delight for a photographer. Graciez Senore. Thank you so much.

One of the most useful post that I could find on internet about taking trains in tuscany. I’m coming on 29 August for 5 days to florence and I would to discover the surrounding by train. The only think that I am afraid of is that only high-speed trains have airco not the regional one. Is that so? For example if I take the train from florence to Pisa, lukka and La Spezia to visit cinique terre. I am afraid that we sit in the train for two ours with airco. That would be great if you have a magic answer for me that all trains have airco

Dear Maryamr, many thanks for leaving a comment and for your nice words about your content. I have no “magic answers” unfortunately. However, despite technical problems (that in Italy are not so unusual), even Regional Trains have air con. Sometimes it is freezing, at least for me. 🙂 So, I would not be so scared. 🙂 🙂

Thank you great information. I travelled around Rome last year by walking and bus it was so easy, a few years ago I visited lake Garda (which is where I fell in love with Italy). I am traveling soon for 3 days and looking to get the train from Pisa airport to viareggio And day trips from viareggio to Pisa and Lucca maybe Florence if there is time. Is it easier to buy train tickets online, and then no need for validation? Is there a travel card I can purchase? train card for travel around these areas for 3 days? Thanks

Hi Paula, traveling by train in northern Tuscany and between the cities you mentioned is a great idea, affordable and comfy. I recommend that you download the official TRENITALIA APP. It is very useful because you can check all available trains and schedules. Also you can buy tickets without the need to register by paying with a credit card. Every ticket you buy you will find directly in the app and you will also receive it by email. There is a need to check in before boarding. It’s a very simple guided procedure which you can access directly from the link in the email or from the app. As far as I know, there is a carnet of trips (5, 10, 15 tickets) but these are for high-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Intercity. However, among the cities you want to visit (Pisa, Viareggio, Lucca and Florence), it is better to use the Regional trains.

Moving Around Tuscany by Train

Trains remain one of the easiest ways to travel within Tuscany from city center to city center. Florence's main train station, Firenze Santa Maria Novella , sits astride the main Rome-Milan line (with connections in Bologna and Arezzo) and is the terminus for two lines to the west: one to Livorno via Pisa and Empoli and one to Viareggio via Prato, Pistoia and Lucca. An indirect line goes down towards Siena from Florence passing through Empoli (sometimes requiring train changes in Empoli) and a line goes to Faenza in Emilia-Romagna (a scenic ride through the Mugello valley and Apennines). Italy's main coastal route runs north-south through Tuscany linking Orbetello in Maremma in the south to Livorno, Pisa, Viareggio and Massa in the Versilia region to the north. To proceed to smaller towns near these main towns, you will often need to make a bus connection.

An inconvenience of numerous Tuscan towns to keep in mind is that many are located on a hilltop. This is the case for Siena , Cortona and Volterra so even if reachable by rail, the train station is at the bottom on the hilltown and you will need to either get a local bus to take you up to the town (short ride) or prepare to walk a bit of uphill to reach your destination.

In collaboration with Trenitalia's regional Tuscan office, we bring to you downloadable .pdf files with a map of the rail lines in Tuscany as well as printable schedules for the Florence-Arezzo-Cortona line (towards Chiusi), the Florence-Faenza line that crosses the Mugello valley and the Pisa-Versilia line that goes up to La Spezia (from here you can change trains to arrive to Cinque Terre). Tips for printing : the files are set up to print on only one page, but come out in tiny print when printing at home. To get the best printout, view on your screen the part you are interested in and when printing select print "current view".

Samples of Traveling Times Between Tuscany Cities

Times vary depending on the type of train you take, the type being determined by the number of stops it makes along the way. For example, an InterCity train from Florence to Arezzo takes approximately 40 minutes to reach its destination, while a Regionale can take anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half to reach Arezzo.

Check Trenitalia's timetables on their site.

Other ways to move around Tuscany...

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Beautiful view of the medieval town of San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is arguably Italy's most famous region, on par with must-see cities like Venice and Rome. It is not a small region, and there's more variety within its borders than you might expect.

Well-known cities like Florence and Pisa sit in the middle of Tuscany, along with Siena, San Gimignano, and Lucca. It is inland Tuscany that we're most familiar with, those quintessential rolling hills dappled by that so often written about Tuscan sun. But there's also a long coastline to Tuscany, stretching along the Tyrrhenian Sea—an area known as the Maremma.

There are mountains as you get further away from the coast, but the majority of Tuscany is hilly. It's an agricultural region, producing grains, rice, vegetables, and grapes that get transformed into delicious wine, and of course, tourism is a huge part of the Tuscan economy.

There are six UNESCO sites in Tuscany, including the historic centers of Florence, Siena, and San Gimignano, and in addition to ancient Roman ruins, there are also Etruscan archaeological sites in Tuscany.

High-speed trains serve the Tuscan capital, Florence, and regional trains connect most other cities and towns in the region.

Photo credits: canadastock

Tuscany Rail Map & Transportation Guide

Taking the trains and buses in tuscany.

Maps of Italy >
Tuscany >
Tuscany Rail Map

Can you train your way around Tuscany? I'd say it's nearly the best ways to see Tuscany's major attractions with as little worry as possible. The Tuscany Rail Map below shows most of the rail lines between major tourist cities and towns in Tuscany, along with bus routes where needed to get to hill towns and smaller cities.

It's easy in Italy to find a station, and buy tickets for the next destination out. It's how we used to do it in the "olden days" of train travel in Italy.

Rail Map of Tuscany

The darker green lines on the map indicate major rail lines with frequent trains. The thinner lines indicate rail lines with less frequent transportation and slower trains. Destinations with an asterisk (*) by them indicate that the train station is not in the city center; a bus ride may be required to get into the city. Dashed lines indicate bus connections to cities without a train station nearby.

The Big Three of Italy by Train

Let's say it's your first trip to Italy and you want to hit the spots your neighbors think of when they talk about Italy. That would be Rome , Venice , and Florence . They're easy. Fast trains run between them. If you're adding the Cinque Terre , that too is easy on the train.

Let's take the Florence to Rome leg of our trip. The 170 mile trip is a little over an hour and a half on a fast train, and least expensive if you take the first train in the morning at 6am. Check pricing for particular days and times using the button below.

Or perhaps you'd like to hit Venice first. Fast trains take 2 hours and 14 minutes. Slow trains take nearly twice that, but give you a chance to stop on a couple of fine destinations on the way, Bologna and Ferrara .

That leaves you with a leg from Venice to Rome, the longest part of your Italian triangle, a trip done in just over 4 hours on the fast train.

The Smaller Places in Tuscany

The argument against using public transport on your holiday is that you'll see no small villages. Poppycock. If you want to see small villages, you can stop at stations like the one called Aulla-Lunigiana, which is just outside of the big city Aulla, population 10,000, and which gives you access to smaller towns like Pontremoli, population just over 7000 From Aulla you can get to many popular Tuscan desinations like Lucca and Barga easily.

From the Lunigiana you can see the marble mountains around Massa and Cararra .

You can arrive by train at the small town of Torre del Lago Puccini on Lake Massaciuccoli to see the Puccini Festival .

Here's a list of all the railway stations in Tuscany.

Then there are the place linked by frequent buses from larger cities.

Villages like San Gimignano , the town of towers, is easily accessible via a short ride on Tiemme Spa line 130 bus from the larger Poggibonsi (28,000 population) station.

Hill towns like Cortona are accessed via bus as well. Both Cortona stations, Camucia-Cortona and Terontola. are connected to central Cortona via a bus where you are able to buy tickets on board

Siena station is 2 km from city center. From the station it takes 5 minutes to get to the city center on buses leaving regularly to piazza Gramsci or Piazza del Sale.

Best Tuscan Places to Stay

There are some fantastic places to stay in Tuscany, and here is a list of highly-rated lodging curated by booking.com

Tuscany Tours and Day Trips

To travel without planning, day trips and tours while you are in Tuscany are available to round out your vacation, especially if you have a longer stay in Florence. You can get not only to the Cinque Terre, but to Monteriggioni, San Gimignano, the Chianti wine region and Pisa as well. Click the button to learn more.

More Tuscany Travel Resources

What towns are there to visit in Tuscany? See our Tuscany Travel Map . To see how it all fits together, see our Italy Rail Map .

Other Regional Rail Maps for Italy

More detailed information on frequently traveled routes in Italy:

More Italy Travel Planning Resources

Travel Planning Timeline : Learn what you need to plan when.
What Will an Italy Vacation Cost? : Tools for budgeting your Italian vacation.
Unplanned Attractions : Save time for the good life in Italy.

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Tuscany is perhaps the most famous region of Italy—its Renaissance cities, rolling fields of grapevines and sunflowers, and picturesque hilltop cities are engrained in the psyche of many a traveler. It's the third-largest region of mainland Italy, and that means that getting around Tuscany requires a gameplan. Taking trains or renting a car are the most practical ways to see the region, but you can also travel by bus, ferry, bike, or on foot.

Tuscany by Train

Train travel within Tuscany is useful for transitting between the region's larger cities and towns. Trains ply the main rail lines between Rome in the south and Bologna in the north—many continue to Venice or Milan. Trenitalia's high-speed, or Frecce trains, stop only in Florence, from which point you can take regional trains to Pisa, Lucca, Siena, and other secondary Tuscan cities. Italo high-speed trains also connect Rome to Florence and points north. Slower, cheaper regionale or intercity Trenitalia trains may stop at Chiusi, Cortona, Arezzo, and other mid-sized towns in addition to Florence. Intercity ( IC ) trains and a few frecce trains also travel along the coastal route, connecting the Tuscan cities of Massa, Viareggio, Pisa, Livorno, and Grosseto.

Train travel in Italy is generally affordable and efficient. The biggest downside of seeing Tuscany by train is that many small towns don't have train stations, or their stations are located a kilometer or more outside of town. Even in Siena, one of the region's larger tourist towns, the train station is 2 kilometers outside the city center, and you have to walk or take a taxi or bus into town. The Montepulciano train station is just over 8 km from the famous hilltop town, so a secondary form of transportation is required. Smaller destinations like Volterra, Pienza, and San Gimignano are similarly impractical or impossible to reach by train.

Pros and Cons of Seeing Tuscany by Train

An efficient way to reach Florence and other larger cities
No stress of driving or navigating Italian highways and secondary roads
Reasonably priced, especially Intercity and Regionale trains
Many smaller towns, especially hilltowns, do not have nearby train stations
No flexibility to explore the Tuscany countryside and make unscheduled stops
A delayed or canceled train can throw off a travel schedule

Seeing Tuscany by train is a great option if you want to stick to larger cities and towns, but if your objectives when visiting Tuscany include winery tours and tastings, exploring tiny hilltowns, and stopping to photograph those famous fields of sunflowers, then you're better off renting a car.

Tuscany by Car

For a leisurely tour of Tuscany where you set your own pace, pull off the side of the road to take photos, and stop for impromptu lunches or wine tastings, a rental car is your best option. Many travelers pick up rental cars when they land at Rome's Fiumicino Airport and head straight to Tuscany. Others take the train to Florence , visit the city for several days, then pick up a rental car for their tour of the Tuscany countryside and smaller towns.

While you can conceivably stick to secondary roads, getting out of Rome or Florence will likely require that you drive at least part of the way on Italy's autostrade , or toll highways. If you're confident driving on interstate highways in the US, you won't find much difference driving on Italy's equivalent, other than the toll booths when you enter and exit. If you're a nervous driver, it may be best to stick to secondary roads or take trains. Also, keep in mind that most rental cars in Italy have manual transmissions—those with automatic transmissions are more expensive to rent, and there are generally fewer available cars.

With some exceptions, such as the coastal highway and the highways connecting Florence to Siena, Pisa, Livorno, and Lucca, the secondary roads of Tuscany are mostly two-lane country roads, most of which pass through the region's famous rural landscapes and climb—sometimes with sharp switchback turns—up to hill towns. If you're comfortable driving on country roads—which might mean getting stuck behind the occasional tractor, navigating narrow streets in old historic town centers, and occasionally getting lost, then driving through Tuscany is a great way to explore the region.

Pros and Cons of Seeing Tuscany by Car

Flexibility to make impromptu stops to take photos, have lunch or visit wineries
Create your own itinerary that includes stops or overnights in small towns or country inns not reachable by train
No rushing to catch trains or waiting on delayed ones
Some find it stressful to drive in Italy, especially on autostrade or in cramped historical centers with narrow roads
Parking in small towns is often scarce or difficult to find; some town centers are closed to traffic
Roads are not often well-marked and it's easy to get lost or take an unintended detour

For more information on renting a car in Italy, including driver's license and insurance requirements and GPS rentals, read our guide to driving in Italy .

Tuscany by Bus

Public buses in Tuscany connect cities to smaller towns and rural areas. In combination with trains, buses are a reliable means of touring the region. In cities and towns served by trains, the bus station is usually at or adjacent to the train station, making transfers reasonably simple. The biggest complaint about regional bus services is the frequency with which schedules can change, and the difficulty finding current, reliable bus schedules. SITABUS is an umbrella company under which several regional bus companies operate, and its website is fairly reliable and is available in English. TuscanyBus is a private company offering service between Livorno, Pisa, Lucca, Florence, and La Spezia.

With bus travel through Tuscany, you have the chance to see more of the countryside from the bus window and reach smaller towns you can't reach by train. Buses are comfortable and modern and in some cases, nicer than regional trains. But be aware that bus travel can be slow compared to traveling by car since the buses make more frequent stops and detours to small towns.

Tuscany by Ferry

If you plan to visit the Tuscany islands of Elba or Giglio , you'll reach them by ferry. Ferries to Elba depart several times a day from Piombino. The trips take 40 minutes to an hour, depending on the arrival port at Elba. Torremar and Moby both serve the Elba ports of Portoferraio, Rio Marina, and Cavo. Most of their ferries allow cars, and a rental car is handy on Elba.

Toremar and Maregiglio ferries to Giglio depart Porto Santo Stefano on the mainland. The trip takes about an hour, and ferries run much more frequently in the summer months. A car is not necessary on Giglio, and during high season, non-residents are not allowed to bring cars onto the island.

Tuscany by Bike or Foot

Hiking or biking through Tuscany is, for many travelers, a bucket-list experience. Intrepid travelers can plan their own itineraries on two wheels or two feet and hike or pedal along backroads, biking/hiking trails, and up steep hills to scenic towns and overlooks. If you prefer to let someone else do the trip planning, maintain the bikes, haul luggage and plan meals and overnights, dozens of companies offer hiking and biking tours in Tuscany. Some of our favorites for guided biking tours include Ciclismo Classico , Anima Toscana , and CicloPosse . For multi-day walking tours in Tuscany, including along the Via Francigena, or Way of St. Francis, try Hike and Bike Italy or Camino Ways , both of which offer guided or self-guided hiking tours through the region.

Tuscany by Plane

You can reach Tuscany by plane by flying into Florence-Peretola or Pisa International airport. Beyond that, commercial air travel within the region is nonexistent since there are no flights between the two airports. The lone exception is Elba, with its tiny Marina di Campo Airport . The island is served by Silver Air , which flies 16-seater planes from Florence or Pisa to Elba several times a week.

4 Day Tuscany from Rome Tour Package

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Our 4 Day Tuscany from Rome Tour Package will take you on a whirlwind adventure to one of Italy’s most breathtaking regions. First, discover the urban beauty of Florence – the Cradle of the Renaissance – and all this city has to offer. Tour the Accademia Gallery and Uffizi Gallery with skip-the-line tickets. Admire Michaelangelo’s David sculpture and incredible art collections by world-renowned artists. Siena’s ancient walkways will unveil a window into the past, followed by stunning views from San Gimignano. Finally, take memorable photos that’ll last a lifetime at the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Adventurers who want to explore the Tuscan countryside must join our 4 Day Tuscany from Rome Tour Package ! Arrive in Florence via high-speed train and tour the city’s key attractions with an expert guide. Revel in the serenity of Tuscany, from Siena to Pisa. This package includes hotel accommodations, experienced guides, skip-the-line tickets, and more. Book today!

Got any questions? schedule a call with one of our travel experts !

4 Day Tuscany from Rome Tour Package Highlights

Discover Florence’s urban highlights, from the Ponte Vecchio to Duomo Square
Marvel at centuries-old artwork at the Accademia Gallery and the Uffizi Gallery
Appreciate Michelangelo’s statue of David with your own eyes
Explore Siena’s cobblestone streets and ancient city
Take in the breathtaking views from San Gimignano
Visit the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, crossing it off your bucket list
Choose your Florentine hotel for an unforgettable stay
Enjoy smooth and comfortable high-speed train tickets

4 Day Tuscany from Rome Tour Package Itinerary

Train transfer from Rome to Florence
Overnight in Florence
Visit the iconic Ponte Vecchio
Explore Florence’s famous leather market
See Piazza Signoria and Duomo Square
Tour the Accademia Gallery and visit Michelangelo's David sculpture
1.5 hours of free time for lunch and to explore on your own
Visit the Uffizi Gallery, full of iconic Renaissance art collections
Reach Siena and visit iconic medieval sites, such as the Duomo
Free time to shop or discover more of the city
Visit the hilltop town of San Gimignano (option to explore the town or have a local lunch)
In Pisa, see the famous Leaning Tower, Cathedral, and Baptistery
Train transfer to Rome

If you have any questions about our 4 Day Tuscany from Rome Tour Package, please contact us. Our team is standing by and will be happy to help

Available dates are shown in green along with the starting price for that date based on recent searches. Click on a date to move to the next step and customize your trip such as adding airport transfers, choosing your hotel, and adding extra nights.

Customize 4 Day Tuscany from Rome Tour Package and create a private experience for yourself, your family or a group of any size.

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Tuscany by train: scenic rail journeys.

Are you ready to embark on an enchanting adventure through the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany? If you’re a travel enthusiast seeking a unique and immersive experience, then exploring Tuscany by train is an absolute must. This article will take you on a captivating journey, showcasing the beauty of Tuscany’s scenic rail routes and the wonders that await you along the way.

Introduction

Tuscany, located in central Italy, is renowned for its charming countryside, rolling hills, and historic cities. While many visitors opt for road trips or guided tours, traveling by train provides an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the region’s breathtaking landscapes and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Exploring Tuscany’s Scenic Rail Routes

1. the florence-siena line: a journey through time.

One of the most spectacular rail journeys in Tuscany is the Florence-Siena line. As the train winds its way through the heart of the region, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of vineyards, olive groves, and medieval hilltop towns. The highlight of this journey is undoubtedly the charming city of Siena, with its iconic Piazza del Campo and magnificent Duomo. Take your time to explore its narrow streets, indulge in local delicacies, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

2. The Pisa-Lucca Line: Traversing Coastal Beauty

For a change of scenery, hop on the Pisa-Lucca line and prepare to be captivated by the coastal beauty of Tuscany. As the train travels along the Ligurian Sea, you’ll witness the breathtaking sight of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Once you arrive in Lucca, a city surrounded by ancient walls, you’ll have the opportunity to stroll through its charming streets, visit historic churches, and even rent a bike to cycle on top of the walls for a unique perspective.

– Exploring Pisa: More Than Just a Tower

While the Leaning Tower of Pisa is undoubtedly the city’s most famous attraction, Pisa has so much more to offer. Don’t miss the chance to wander around the Piazza dei Miracoli, where you’ll find the stunning Cathedral and the Baptistry. Take a leisurely walk along the Arno River, cross the Ponte di Mezzo, and discover the vibrant student life in the city center.

– Discovering Lucca: A Hidden Gem

Lucca, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Its well-preserved city walls offer a unique opportunity to take a leisurely bike ride or a peaceful walk while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Visit the Guinigi Tower, climb to the top, and be rewarded with a breathtaking vista of Lucca’s red rooftops and the surrounding countryside.

Immerse Yourself in Tuscany’s Charm

No matter which scenic rail route you choose to embark on, Tuscany will enchant you with its rich history, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality. Take the time to immerse yourself in the local culture, indulge in delicious Tuscan dishes, and savor world-renowned wines. Explore the charming streets of medieval towns, visit historic landmarks, and embrace the slower pace of life that defines this region. Capture the essence of Tuscany through your senses and create memories that will last a lifetime.

In conclusion, Tuscany by train offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a unique and immersive journey through one of Italy’s most beautiful regions. Whether you choose to explore the Florence-Siena line or venture along the Pisa-Lucca route, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking scenery, historic treasures, and the opportunity to truly connect with the essence of Tuscany. So, hop aboard and let the magic of Tuscany unfold before your eyes. Get ready for a scenic rail adventure like no other!

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Tuscany By Train ~ 10 Fabulous Day Trips From Florence

If you are staying beautiful Florence and want to explore Tuscany but don’t want to rent a car, no problem! You can visit much of Tuscany by train (or bus).

Here are 10 really fabulous places to visit in Tuscany with things to see and do, and approximate travel times by train.

Make sure you scroll to the end of this post – there’s a bonus for you, with my favorite places to eat and drink in Florence, my favorite secret shops and much more!

10 Day Trips From Florence By Train

Fiesole sits on the hilltop overlooking Florence. A mere 20 minute bus ride from the heart of town it is worth the trip just to take in the view, but Fiesole has much more to offer! (The best view is from the climb up to the monastery of San Francesco )

The town has a long history with famous artists, including Leonardo da Vinci, who lunched his flying machine from the hillside of Fiesole. All summer long the town hosts cultural events (see the Estate Fiesolana calendar)

What To Do In Fiesole

Visit the Etruscan-Roman Archeological site . The Etruscan settlement probably dates back to the 8th century B.C, but its first historical mention was in the 2nd century B.C when it was conquered by the Romans. In the archaeological are you can see Roman baths and the Roman amphitheater, and in the Civic Museum you can see both Etruscan and Roman artifacts. Also look for the Antiquarian Costantini collection of more than 150 pieces of ceramics from Greece and Etruria.

The Bandini Museu m houses Florentine art from the 12th-14th centuries and is well worth visiting.

image via PaesiOnline

How To Get There

From Santa Maria Novella station take the #7 bus.

How To get There

From Florence by train it take 50 minutes to reach Certaldo.

RELATED POST: 10 THINGS YOU ABSOLUTELY MUST DO IN FLORENCE

Florence’s arch enemy for centuries, Siena lies in the heart of Tuscany and is a beautiful city to visit. Make your way up to the walled city and spend your day strolling within the walls. Make a note of which city gate you arrived through so you can find your way back out!

What To Do In Siena

Start by walking into the heart of Siena, Piazza del Campo .

This is one of the biggest medieval squares in the world, and is the home to the Palio horse race every July and August. The Campo has been the heart of Sienese life since 1300 and has been the place everyone gathered for parties and celebrations, political rallies and markets.

It’s shell shape is both unique and lovely. The beautiful Fonte Gaia fountain sits at the top of the shell (this one is a copy – the original is in the Museum Santa Maria della Scala), and looks out across the Campo.

The Torre del Mangia sits across the Campo from the Fonte Gaia. If you enjoy a good thigh burn take the 400 steps (!) tot the top for a truly breathtaking view of all of Siena and the surrounding hills.

Built in 1338-1348 it was constructed to the same height as the cathedral, to signify the equal power of church and state. The tower got its name from its original guardian (I have also read the original bellringer) Giovanni di Balduccio who was known as Mangiguadagni or Mr Eats-the-profits, because he ate all his earnings at the local taverns!

The Duomo . Siena’s cathedral is truly sensational and deserves a significant portion of your time. Built between 1215 and 1263 both the exterior and interior are made up of alternating stripes of white marble and a greenish black marble. The cathedral is enormous and holds incredible art from the likes of Michelangelo, Donatello and Pinturicchio.

The enormity and verticality of the cathedral draw the eye upward but be sure to look down too – the floors are incredible. Decorated with mosaics designed by 40 leading artists between 1369 and 1547, the 56 inlaid marble panels took 600 years to be completed!

The Piccolomini Library inside the Duomo is spectacular. Built by Pope Pius III to celebrate his uncle, Pope Pius II (creator of the nearby town of Pienza), the library houses Pius II’s collection of manuscripts, which are wonderful to look at, but more significantly the room is exquisitely frescoed by Pinturicchio and his students, including Raphael. With stunning use of perspective the frescoes are divided into 10 scenes depicting the life of Pius II.

Make sure you look up while you are in there. The ceiling is spectacular!

You purchase tickets next door prior to entering the cathedral, and various city passes are available. One item you may want to take note of is the opportunity to go up to the “Gate Of Heaven” and walk with a guide near the frescoed ceiling. This is a really remarkable tour, well worth doing, but as there are only a few tours per day, and they are timed, you may want to buy this ticket online ahead of time and plan your day around it.

Duomo, Siena

The Baptistery is another must see and can be included in a multi entry ticket. The Baptistery was built in 1300 and is a separate building behind the cathedral. Catholics, even babies, couldn’t enter a church or cathedral without first being baptized, so it is normal to see a separate building for the baptistery. This one has beautiful artwork but its most special treasure is the bronze and marble baptismal font where for centuries every person in Siena, rich and famous or not, was baptized.

Santa Maria della Scala stands across the piazza from the cathedral (by the ticket office). Built in the 1330’s and at one time used as a hospital for abandoned children,the sick, the poor and the pilgrims it is now home to some tremendous museums, spread over 4 floors.

If you have just one day in Siena spend the rest of your time walking around the city. There is so much to see! Be sure to try a slice of panforte, a Sienese delicacy originally made as a gift for the nuns at Christmas time. It pairs perfectly with a cappuccino.

By train from Florence you will need an hour and 45 minutes. The Siena train station is outside the walled city but plenty of city buses can take you back and forth.

RELATED POST: HOW TO ORDER COFFEE IN ITALY

Arezzo is an ancient city, older than Alexandria in Egypt! It was one of the main Etruscan cities and went on to become strategically important to Rome. It was known for its foundaries, its commerce and for the red coralline pots made there and seen throughout the Roman world.

If you can possibly swing it try to do a day trip to Arezzo on the weekend when its world famous antiques market is happening. The market is fantastic, and you can spend hours wandering around looking at the treasures found in the attics of estates and villas that have changed hands.

image via Visit Tuscany

What To Do In Arezzo

Go To The Market. The first Sunday of the month hosts a really incredible antiques market in Piazza Grande. With 500+ stalls you can lose yourself for hours looking at cool old treasures.

The Arezzo Cathedral . Go to see Piero della Francesca’s Mary Magdalene fresco and Donatello’s baptismal font relief.

The Basilica of San Francesco doesn’t look like much from the outside, but it houses one of Italy’s most important and most treasured pieces of Renaissance art – Piero della Francesca’s Legend Of The True Cross fresco cycle. Even though Arezzo doesn’t get a huge tourist crush it is still a good idea to book tickets for this online as they are frequently sold out.

The Medici Fortress was built between 1538 and 1560, and from the top of its walls you can get a 360 degree view of Arezzo and the surrounding area.

Roman Amphitheater and Arecheological Museum . The museum which holds 2nd century treasures sits on top of part of the amphitheater. Both are fantastic to see.

Casa Vasari. Giorgio Vasari’s Renaissance home is well worth visiting for both the art – his own frescoes line the walls, and also a handwritten letter from Michelangelo.

Just wander. Have lunch or a coffee in Piazza Grande, take in all the shields and coats of arms on the walls of the surrounding buildings, and enjoy being in this lovely city with so few tourists!

What To Do In Poppi

A trip to Poppi is all about the castle . If it looks familiar that’s because it was the prototype for the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. The Poppi castle was built in the 13th century for the noble Guidi family.

image via Borghitoscana.net

From the interior courtyard a series of intricate staircases wind and weave their way upwards, and your eyes are drawn with them up to a sizeable collection of family crests.

Inside the Chapel of Counts you will discover a truly breathtaking 14th century fresco cycle by Taddeo Gaddi. The library has an incredible collection, considered to be a literary treasure trove. It was donated to the Municipality of Poppi by the Rilli-Orsini family.

As you walk back from the castle under the porticos make your way to the ancient Abbey of Saint Fedele . Built in the 11 th century it houses paintings by Ligozzi, Solosmeo, Morandini, Portelli and Davanzati.

While in Poppi take time to visit the Camaldoli Hermitage . Surrounded by a forest of fir trees this sanctuary was founded in 1012 by Saint Romauld. The church has undergone many transformations over the centuries, and is now baroque. A must see inside the church is the Andrea della Robbia glazed terracotta alterpiece in the Sant’ Antonio Abate chapel. There are 20 cells here at the sanctuary but the only one open to the public is Saint Romauld’s cell, which faces the church.

Some of Giorgio Vasari’s earliest works can be seen in the Church of Santi Donato e Ilariano , a monastery a few kilometers down the road.

The most direct route takes less than an hour by car, but by train from Florence it takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Take the train to Arezzo, then a second train to Poppi.

My new book Glam Italia ! How To Travel Italy is now available worldwide! You can get your copy HERE on Amazon.com

If not for Frances Mayes and her wonderful books we may not have even known about Cortona. A tiny little town on top of a hill above Camucia, it is a lovely place to spend a day or part thereof.

Bramasole, Cortona

What To Do In Cortona

Wander the Etruscan walls . I never get tired of seeing Etruscan anything, and the fact that walls and portions there of still stand 2500 years later is always amazing!

me, walking in Cortona

Museo dell’ Accademia Etrusco is housed in the 13th century Palazzo Casali and holds a substantial collection of local Etruscan and Roman treasures. The Etruscan objects are amazing, especially those gathered from the tombs just outside town in Sodo.

The Fortezza del Girifalco is a 15 minute hike uphill to the highest point in Cortona. The remains of what was a Medici fortress are the perfect viewing point to gaze out over the Valdichiana and Lago Trasimeno.

Caffe Degli Artisti, Cortona

Caffe degli Artisti on via Nazionale is a fantastic place to stop for lunch. The owner is hilarious and will seat you elbow to elbow with fascinating people, as though it was all an elaborate dinner party. I never miss lunching there and have met the most fabulous people and made wonderful friends in the process!

Piazza della Republica, Cortona

People-watch in Piazza della Republica , the central piazza and main hub in town. The Town Hall stands at the top of a big staircase, on which you will normally find people sitting and looking out at the town. There are plenty of bench seats around the piazza and you will often see locals hanging out on them and catching up on the gossip, but if you find a space it is a lovely spot to enjoy the beauty of this lovely little town.

The Museo Diocesano is only little but it holds some amazing paintings from the 12th to the 17th centuries, including works by Fra’ Angelico and Luca Signorelli, who was from Cortona.

The church of Madonna del Calcinaio and its dome are one of the famous landmarks of Cortona. Luca Signorelli is buried there and the grounds are wonderful to wander along, with ancient little staircases and wonderful views.

The Saturday morning market is a wonderful chance to join the locals and buy cheeses and prosciutto, local breads and produce.

via Nazionale, Cortona

The train from Florence takes an hour and forty minutes. You will need to take the local bus up the hill from the train station, and it will drop you outside Piazza Garibaldi.

What To Do In Pisa

Walk along the Corso Italia and check out the shops, until you arrive at Logge dei Banchi , a loggia that has hosted markets or centuries. Positioned next to the the clock tower it makes one of the most famous views of Pisa along the Arno river. Palazzo Blu is a mere 2 minutes walk from there, and is a great place to catch fabulous art exhibitions.

Palazzo Blu, via myitalianitineraries.com

Look for the beautiful little church Chiesa della Spina sitting alongside the Arno.

Take time to stop on any of the bridges and take photos along the Arno.

Piazza della Vettovaglie is a market during the day and is the heart of Pisa’s nightlife after the sun goes down.

The National Museum of San Matteo has sculptures, paintings and ceramics in the Pisan style.

While in Pisa make sure to visit the Verdi Theater , a beautiful 19th century 900 seat theater built in the round.

Pisa is approximately 50 minutes by train from Florence.

Lucca, the city of 100 churches, sits a half hour inland from the coast on the Serchio River. Known for its Romanesque churches, hidden gardens and olive oil, Lucca is a lovely place for a day trip, or to base your entire trip.

What To Do In Lucca

Perhaps the most famous thing to do here is to rent a bicycle and bike along the top of the city wall . The 4 km bike ride (or walk) gives you unparalleled views of the city, its hidden gardens and the surrounding landscape.

The Romanesque Duomo has several great works of art including Tintoretto’s Last Supper, Ilaria del Carretto’s Tomb and the Volto Santo, a wooden crucifix of the Holy Face.

The Basilica di San Frediano ’s exquisite mosaic façade, glistens in the sunlight and is definitely worth seeing.

San Michele in Foro was first mentioned in 795 A.D. when it was part of the Roman Forum in Lucca. At some point after 1070 it was rebuilt, but what is most notable is the façade which was added in the 13th century.

image via Agriturismo La Gioconda

The upper part has 4 levels of loggias (remarkable in themselves) atop which stands the 4 meter tall statue of St Michael the Archangel, flanked by 2 angels. Make sure you see the white marble statue of Madonna with baby Jesus in her arms in the south-west corner of the façade. Sculpted by Matteo Civitali it was commissioned to celebrate the end of the 1476 plague.

Piazza Anfiteatro is a lovely oval shaped piazza built around the original elliptical structure of a Roman amphitheater. During the summer events and concerts are held in the piazza, and year round it is a lovely place to have a coffee or a glass of wine.

Piazza Antifeatro via Italy Magazine

The Guinigi Tower is a Romanesque-Gothic tower in the heart of Lucca. Built in the 1300’s it is the most important tower in Lucca. You can’t miss it with its ancient Holm Oak trees growing out of the roof!

image via lovetotravel.nz.co

The roof garden is definitely worth the 4 euros and 200 stairs you must climb to reach it. It is a lovely place to take in the views of the city as well as to hang out in the garden. Interestingly the kitchen of this centuries old former home was on the level below, with the roof serving as a kitchen garden for the cooks.

If you are tires and hungry after the 200 stairs and your day walking and biking around Lucca, make sure you try the famous buccellato , a sweet bread with raisins that is a local specialty!

Lucca is approximately 90 minutes by train from Florence.

RELATED POST: THE BEST PLACE TO WATCH SUNSET IN FLORENCE

Whether you want to escape the heat or just enjoy a little ocean breeze, a day trip to Viareggio makes for a lovely break. One of Italy’s traditional seaside towns, Viareggio’s beach stretches 20 kms along the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

You don’t come here for art, history and culture, you come for a day on the sand. Most of the beach is private beach – you pay to spend the day at one of the many lidos lining the waterfront, but you will have sunchairs, a sun umbrella, restroom facilities and a restaurant/snack bar. The lungomare, or beach promenade is full of eateries and little shops catering to the beach trade.

From Florence by train it will take you 1.5 to 2 hours

If you want to escape the crowds and experience something extra special head to the heart of the Serchio Valley in the province of Lucca to Barga. This absolute gem is known for its artistic and historical importance and has also received awards for being one of the most beautiful villages in all of Italy.

The village’s ancient traditions date back to the Longobard era in the 6th-8th centuries. The layout of the town with its narrow winding streets and irregular shaped buildings has remained virtually unchanged since then, adding to its charm. Barga became a prize fought over by Pisa and Lucca during the middle ages, and later by Florence too.

What To Do In Barga

Take time to visit the beautifully restored castle , The 11th century Duomo , the Church of San Francesco (1471) and take time to enjoy the view from the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from the Arringo , the stretch of lawn between the Praetorian Palace and the cathedral.

On the second Sunday of every month there is a second hand/antiques fair in the town’s historic center, starting at 8am. Barga is also famous for its Jazz Festival and its annual Opera Festival .

From Florence take the train to Pisa (or Lucca) then the Lazzi bus which will take you to Lucca Piazza Verdi then on to Barga, dropping you just outside the medieval gates at the Fosso stop.

Secret Florence Bonus:

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Do you belong to my Private Members Newsletter ? Twice each month it tells you about special foods to try, festivals happening in Italy and under the radar places to visit, both within the big cities as well as villages around the country. You can get on the list and become a member (for free) here .

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Corrinna! Ijust purchased Glam Italia! We will do Lucca for sure ( my grandpa was born there ) Can you offer info on Gugliano and Montepulciano How would we get to both from Lucca Thank you

Hi Donna, Sorry for the delay in replying, I’ve been in New Zealand and didn’t have access to the blog. Thank you for buying my book – I hope you find it helpful! I have a new book coming out soon all about amazing things to do in Rome.

From Lucca traveling to both Gugliano and to Montepulciano your best bet is to drive. Gugliano is only about 30 minutes, so you could even hire a driver if you don’t feel like driving in Italy. There are lots of lovely little towns and villages to explore in the area if you have a car.

Montepulciano is trickier. The bus + train option takes 5 hours, but driving it only takes 2 hours. If you don’t want to drive over there I would take the train to Florence and have a driver take you to Montepulciano. I have drivers I use in Florence if you need one. It is quite expensive though, between 400 and 500 euros for the day. Another option is to take the train from Florence to Arezzo and take either a bus or a driver from there.

Montepulciano is lovely. It is very small so you can wander around easily, drink some of the local wine, and have a lovely afternoon. If you are an Under The Tuscan Sun fan you might enjoy going to Cortona for a couple of hours on the way to Montepulciano. Cortona is tiny too, so you can comfortably visit both in one day.

Are you staying anywhere other than Lucca in Tuscany? Lucca is magical and there are plenty of places easily accessible from there by train, but if you are staying somewhere south of Florence as well then I would recommend doing Montepulciano from there. Its all so overwhelmingly lovely, you really can’t go wrong!

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COMING SOON

The Ultimate Tuscany Itinerary – 7 Days

Tuscany is the part of Italy I’ve visited the most owing to my parent’s love of the area.

Over the years we’ve visited and re-visited the places on this best Tuscany itinerary.

A Tuscany vacation should be on your Italian bucket list for sure.

My siblings and I would roll our eyes every time one of our parents said “wow! Look at the view!” as they gazed at the rolling hills covered in vineyards and olive groves.

But now we’re older we too can appreciate the view.

Tuscany is a region in Central Italy and has coast land, hills, beautiful towns, awe-inspiring artworks, and incredible food. It’s where you’ll find popular Italian destinations such as Pisa, Florence and Siena.

The scenery has been the backdrop to many films over the years including Under the Tuscan Sun, A Room with a View, Gladiator and Twilight.

If you’re planning a Tuscany trip and looking for awesome Tuscany itineraries, you’ll find it below.

How many days do you need in Tuscany?

If this is your first time visiting Tuscany I highly recommend giving yourself at least 5 days in Tuscany. This is enough to see some of the major cities in Tuscany and enjoy them without feeling too rushed.

This is a 7 day Tuscany itinerary which takes you through some of the main sites in Tuscany, and some hidden gems and allows you some time to relax too.

If you have longer you could easily spend 2 weeks in Tuscany.

This is what we did on our most recent trip.

It allowed us time to go further afield, e.g. to Rome, and to spend days lounging by the pool at the villa which we’ve stayed at about 5 times.

A sample itinerary for Tuscany in 7 days could look something like this, depending on where you’re flying in and out of.

Day 1 : Arrive in Florence
Day 2 : Explore Florence
Day 3 : Drive to Siena via San Gimignano, explore Siena
Day 4 : Drive Val d’Orcia (Montalcino, Montepulciano, Pienza,) overnight in Montepulciano
Day 5 : Hot Springs at Saturnia, overnight at Volterra
Day 6 : Drive to Pisa, explore Pisa
Day 7 : Drive back to Florence (visit Lucca if time)

Best way to get around Tuscany

If you’re just keen to visit the cities in Tuscany you can definitely get around using trains and buses. The main cities are well connected to places like Rome, Florence or Pisa and train travel is fairly cheap and easy to navigate.

This Tuscany 7 day itinerary is written with car access in mind. It allows you time to explore some of the back roads and stop in small towns that aren’t as well connected.

However, you could still visit most of the places on this list by arranging day tours from some of the larger cities. Where possible, tours are recommended further in this post.

Flights to Tuscany, Italy

The best airports in Tuscany Italy are Florence airport and another airport in Tuscany is Pisa airport. Both of these are served by budget airlines in Europe.

You can also fly to Rome and then get a bus or train to Siena, Florence or Pisa.

On my latest visit to Tuscany, I flew to Rome as that’s where the cheapest flights were to.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

Tuscany road trip

The best way to experience this 7 day Tuscany itinerary is to rent a car, or if you’re coming from the UK or elsewhere in Europe you can drive into Italy with your own car.

If you’re driving from another country, be sure to check the rules. For British drivers, you don’t currently need an International Drivers Permit (IDP), but you do need to have your full insurance papers, license and additional safety equipment.

If you’re renting a car with a Canadian or American license (+ perhaps others, please check!), then you need an International Drivers Permit (IDP) as well as your full license in order to rent a car.

If you do not have an IDP, you will not be able to rent a car. Sure, you may find somewhere that’ll do it anyway, but any insurance you have will be void by not having an IDP.

Cars can be rented from Pisa or Florence airports on arrival if you’ve flown into Italy.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

Top tips for driving in Italy

These two top tips for driving will help your 7-day Tuscany itinerary go a bit smoother!

Avoid ZTL zones wherever possible

ZTL zones are areas of cities that are restricted access. They are typically in the city centre and if you drive through them you risk getting a big fine or charge.

If you’re renting a car the charge will be even bigger since rental companies will add some sort of admin fee on top of the original fine.

You can avoid these by looking up a place to park that’s outside of the city centre ahead of time. I like to use parkopedia to find places or just google ‘ parcheggio ‘ in Google Maps.

Expect toll roads

There are toll roads throughout Tuscany. They’re usually not too expensive, and most take card, but it’s always handy to have a few coins in your car just in case.

Tuscany by train

Getting around Tuscany by train is definitely doable. Trenitalia operates regional trains and they stop at the main cities such as Florence, Pisa and Siena as well as smaller towns too.

You can book trains online in advance by using TheTrainline.com which makes it super easy to plan your journey ahead of time!

Best places to visit in Tuscany

Below is more information about each of the stops on this 7 days in Tuscany road trip itinerary. You’ll find links to recommended tours and more information within each section.

Days 1 + 2: Explore Florence

Florence is the capital of the Tuscany region in Italy.

It’s a beautiful city with centuries of history and is home to masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture. This includes the famous Florence Duomo, the Galleria dell’Accademia which houses Michelangelo’s “David” sculpture and the Uffizi Gallery.

The city of Florence sits on the river Arno and there is plenty to explore which is why this Tuscany itinerary spends two days in Florence.

I highly recommend booking your entrance tickets to galleries before you arrive as that way you can skip the lines (which are super long in high season!).

Top of the list of things to do for your two days in Florence and Tuscany itinerary are:

The Duomo , Santa Maria del Fiore
The Piazza Della Signoria
The Uffizi Gallery (if you’ve reserved priority tickets )
Mercato Centrale – leather goods and food!
Stroll the Ponte Vecchio

Doing this Tuscany itinerary without a car? Check out these guided tours

If you’re travelling in Tuscany without a car, these guided tours could be perfect for you. They pick you up from Florence and drop you back too.

Tour from Florence: Siena, San Gimignano and Monteriggioni day tour (one of the best Tuscany wine tours)
Tuscany day trip with lunch and wine
From Florence, Pienza and Montepulciano guided wine tour

Day 3: Drive to Siena via San Gimignano

From Florence, it’s time to head out into the super picturesque parts of Tuscany!

San Gimignano

Often cited as one of the best Tuscany towns , San Gimignano is a super cute Medieval hilltop town complete with cobbled streets that’s well worth being on your one week Tuscany itinerary.

This pretty place to add to your Italy Tuscany itinerary is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are 15 towers throughout the charming little town and it’s super popular with people looking to experience Tuscan history and culture.

Spend some time wandering around the streets in the city, visiting the piazzas, like the beautiful piazza della cisterna , the medieval fountains, and, of course, the Duomo in San Gimignano.

Siena is a beautiful city that’s sometimes overlooked in favor of other Tuscany cities and towns.

However, it’s well worth being on this Florence Tuscany itinerary.

You only really need one day in Siena to tick off the main sights.

Siena is known for the Palio horse race that takes place twice every summer in the center of the city, as well as its beautiful marble-striped Duomo, Piazza del Campo, old town streets, and stores to explore.

Be sure to climb up to the top of some of the towers, such as palazzo vecchio , for views over the historic city center.

If you don’t have a car

If you don’t have a car, this tour is recommended for the following day. It’s a food and wine-tasting tour where you’ll be picked up and dropped off at Siena.

You’ll visit Pienza, and taste world-famous wines produced in Montalcino and Montepulciano as well as some snacks to eat.

Where to stay in Siena

$ – B&B San Francesco: In a 15th Century building, this B&B in Tuscany Italy is just a short walk from Piazza del Campo. The rooms have city views, free wifi and include breakfast.

$$ – Il Vezzosino: Have your own apartment while staying in Siena. This 1-bed apartment has a terrace and garden view

$$$ – Residenza d’Epoca Campo Regio Relais: This beautiful building has incredible views of Torre del Mangia and the Siena Duomo. Rooms include breakfast and you’re just steps away from the best things to do in Siena Italy.

Day 4: Take a Val d’Orcia road trip

From Siena, it’s time to explore Val D’Orcia which is a region of Tuscany, central Italy. Val d’Orcia extends from the hills south of Siena to Monte Amiata.

Today you’ll drive through Val d’Orcia and stop off at Montalcino, Pienza and Montepulciano where you’ll spend the night.

Along the way, you may want to go wine tasting for the Brunello wine found near Montalcino, or just stop off and soak up the views of rolling vineyards and Tuscany’s beautiful hilltop towns.

This is one of the areas in Tuscany that’s most beautiful – and that’s saying something!

There are so many vineyards around Montalcino. Most charge a small fee per wine tasting and have several you can try.

Some notable places to stop on a Val d’Orcia road trip include:

The Cappella di Vitaleta – a super cute church that’s a popular photo spot
Bosco di Cipressi – a group of cypress trees that is also popular with photographers
Bagno Vignoni – cute town with thermal hot springs

Where to stay in Montepulciano

Montepulciano is one of the best towns in Tuscany to stay in. It gets busy during the day but most people will leave once evening comes so you’ll get to explore it without the crowds!

Camere Bellavista : This accommodation in Montepulciano is right in the centre of the town and every room has views of the Tuscan countryside.
Palazzo Carletti: This luxurious accommodation in Montepulciano has panoramic views and is in a beautiful Medieval building.
Agriturismo Cognanello: Stay on a real Tuscan farm just 2km from Montepulciano. Every guest gets a welcome package with local oil, wine and fruit too!

Day 5: Visit the Saturnia hot springs in Tuscany and explore Volterra

The Saturnia hot springs are some ice-blue hot springs in southern Tuscany. Only they don’t feel icy, they’re hot!

The hot springs themselves are called “ Cascate di Mulino ” and are just under 6 km outside of the town of Saturnia.

As with most hot springs in Tuscany and elsewhere, the waters are rich in mineral deposits, especially sulphur which gives it an “eggy” smell.

The pools get very busy so it’s best to go super early in the morning to beat the worst of the crowds.

Once you’re done at Saturnia, head up north again towards Volterra.

Another beautiful Tuscan hilltop town, Volterra has a long Etruscan history and, more recently, played a part in the Twilight series.

The town has basilicas, cobblestone streets, crumbling gateways, and red-tiled roofs.

It’s a great place to wander around in the afternoon and grab dinner here before retiring to your accommodation in Volterra.

Below are some places to stay for this part of your Tuscany countryside itinerary.

Places to stay in Volterra

Residenza Storica Palazzo Ricciarelli : This beautiful 1-bed accommodation in Volterra has everything you need for the night.
Casa Mosaico: This guest house in Volterra has city views which you’ll love!
Hotel La Locanda : This Volterra hotel is decorated with Etruscan carvings and offers a buffet breakfast to guests.

one day in Pisa Italy leaning tower of pisa

Day 6: Explore Pisa

If you know anything about Pisa, the chances are that you know about the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

This small city in the Tuscany region of Italy is famed for the tower which is slightly off-tilt.

While many visitors come to view the Leaning Tower of Pisa and then leave, there’s actually so much more to this city and plenty to keep you entertained for one day in Pisa!

Check out my ultimate guide to the best things to do in Pisa Italy!

Besides the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the complex around it, there’s also the River Arno and the Palazzo Della Carovana which you should explore.

Day 7: Visit Lucca

Your final stop on this Tuscany itinerary is the city of Lucca. However, if you have an early flight you can head off to Florence straight away.

Lucca is known as the city of a hundred churches and is well-known for the beautiful Medieval city walls that can still be seen around the old town.

The best things to do in Lucca include the Lucca Cathedral, Piazza dell Anfiteatro, and San Michele in Foro.

Where to stay in Lucca

La Chiusa delle Monache: This B&B includes a great breakfast and has its own courtyard for relaxing after exploring Lucca.
The Old Laundry: This two-bedroom apartment is beautiful with a private courtyard and is super close to the town centre.
Al Carmine Apartments: With incredible views, these apartments are just 100 m from Guinigi Tower and 200 m from Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.

Other places to add to your Tuscany Itinerary

If your Tuscany itinerary is 10 days or longer, you could check out some of the destinations and things to do in Tuscany listed below.

Visit the beaches in Tuscany Italy

It may come as a surprise but the region of Tuscany actually has a coastline, a pretty one at that!

Most visitors to Tuscany are more focused on the hilltops and vineyards and forget about the coast, but if you have more time then head out to visit the beaches in Tuscany, Italy.

Some of the best beaches in Tuscany are:

Castiglioncello : A famous seaside destination that has beautiful sand beaches, pine forests, coves and pebble creeks.
Cala Violina : A wonderful cove in Maremma with white fine sand. To get there you walk a trail with incredible views of the coastline.
Giannella beach : Characterised by sand dunes and beautiful waters.

If you have the time, 3 days in Rome is perfect for exploring the city. It allows you plenty of time to explore the top attractions in Rome while enjoying it at a more leisurely pace.

Obviously, you should visit the Colosseum and forum, the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain and head for food and drink in Trastevere is a must too.

You could also spend a day alone exploring the Vatican and its museums.

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Cinque Terre

Just north of Tuscany in the Liguria region is Cinque Terre. A Tuscany and Cinque Terre itinerary makes a great vacation to Italy.

The Cinque Terre is famous for its beauty and today visitors explore the five towns by walking the rugged, steep trails between them.

As you hike you’ll get breathtaking views of the harbors, medieval fortresses, and vibrant colors; it’s beautiful!

Lake Como is one of the best lakes in Italy and also one of the most popular lakes in the Italian Lake region.

I recommend spending about 4 days in Lake Como. If you’re looking for an Italy itinerary 7 days long, I’d combine Como with some time in Milan too.

If your flights are going in and out of Milan then stopping in Lake Como is a must as it’s just 40 km or so to Lake Como from Milan.

Assisi is associated with St. Francis of Assisi who was a popular pilgrim related to animals.

If you’re visiting Assisi you can tour the beautiful Basilica of St. Francis while learning about the saint’s life and history.

This is an interesting stop if you have more than one week in Tuscany.

Tuscany Itinerary 5 days

Not everyone has a full week to spend in Tuscany, especially if the start and end of your holiday to Tuscany is taken up with travel time.

In that case, here’s a 5 day itinerary for Tuscany that’ll give you a taste of the best that Tuscany has to offer.

Day 1: Florence

Morning: Uffizi Gallery : One of the world’s top art museums with works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and more. Wander around Piazza della Signoria .
Afternoon: Florence Cathedral (Il Duomo) : Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city. Ponte Vecchio : Iconic bridge with shops built along it.
Evening: Tuscan dinner in the historic district. Try a traditional “Bistecca alla Fiorentina”.

Day 2: Siena

Morning: Visit the Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) and then wander the medieval streets.
Afternoon: Visit Piazza del Campo which is known for the Palio horse race and then explore Torre del Mangia for views of the city.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of the local trattorias and try pici pasta.

Day 3: Chianti Wine Region

Morning and Afternoon: Go wine tasting and visit a few vineyards. Notable ones to check out include Castello di Verrazzano and Castello di Brolio . Then, explore towns like Greve in Chianti and Radda in Chianti .
Evening: Stay in a local agriturismo (a farm stay) and enjoy a meal made with local produce.

Day 4: San Gimignano and Volterra

Morning: Explore San Gimignano which is a medieval town known for its towers
Afternoon: Drive to Volterra a hilltop town known for its Etruscan history and alabaster products.
Evening: Dine in Volterra or return to San Gimignano for a lovely dinner with views.

Day 5: Lucca and Pisa

Morning: Explore Lucca and wander inside its well-preserved Renaissance walls. Don’t miss Lucca Cathedral and Guinigi Tower .
Afternoon: Head to Pisa to see the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa and the nearby Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery .
Evening: Enjoy a final Tuscan dinner in Pisa, trying dishes like Tortelli Lucchesi.

Tuscany itinerary 10 days

If you have more than 1 week to spend in Tuscany, check out this 10 day Tuscany Italy itinerary for some more ideas.

Days 1-3: Florence : Visit the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world’s top art museums with works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and more. Wander around Piazza della Signoria , climb to the top of the Florence Cathedral (Il Duomo), and visit the Ponte Vecchio.
Day 2: Explore the Boboli Gardens , visit the Palazzo Pitti , and spend your evening in the bohemian Oltrarno area.
Day 3: Visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David, explore Santa Croce Church , and do some shopping at the San Lorenzo Market .
Day 4: Fiesole : Just a short bus ride from Florence, explore the Roman Amphitheatre, and enjoy panoramic views of Florence.
Days 5-6: Siena and Monteriggioni : Visit the Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) and then wander the medieval streets as well as Piazza del Campo which is known for the Palio horse race and then explore Torre del Mangia for views of the city.
Day 6: Visit the walled town of Monteriggioni . Spend half a day wandering its walls and the small, historic center.
Day 7: Chianti Wine Region : Go wine tasting and visit a few vineyards. Notable ones to check out include Castello di Verrazzano and Castello di Brolio . Then, explore towns like Greve in Chianti and Radda in Chianti .
Days 8-9: San Gimignano and Volterra : Explore San Gimignano which is a medieval town known for its towers and Volterra a hilltop town known for its Etruscan history.
Day 10: Lucca : Explore Lucca and wander inside its well-preserved Renaissance walls. Don’t miss Lucca Cathedral and Guinigi Tower .

Tuscany itinerary 14 days

Below you’ll find an outline of a 2 week Tuscany itinerary that you could use for a longer stay.

Days 1-4: Florence : Find things to do in Florence listed in the above itineraries and extend your Florence stay by one day to truly absorb the city’s art and culture.
Day 5: Fiesole
Days 6-7: Siena and Monteriggioni . Visit the Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) and then wander the medieval streets as well as Piazza del Campo which is known for the Palio horse race and then explore Torre del Mangia for views of the city.
Day 8: Chianti Wine Region : Go wine tasting and visit a few vineyards. Then, explore towns like Greve in Chianti and Radda in Chianti .
Days 9-10: San Gimignano and Volterra : Explore San Gimignano which is a medieval town known for its towers and Volterra a hilltop town known for its Etruscan history.
Day 11: Lucca : Explore Lucca and wander inside its well-preserved Renaissance walls. Don’t miss Lucca Cathedral and Guinigi Tower .
Day 12: Pisa : Dedicate a day to Pisa, visiting the Leaning Tower , Pisa Cathedral , Baptistery , and wandering the city.
Day 13: Arezzo : Visit the beautiful town of Arezzo , known for its churches, antique market, and the fresco cycle by Piero della Francesca in the Basilica of San Francesco.
Day 14: Cortona : Explore the hilltop town of Cortona , made famous by the book and film “Under the Tuscan Sun”. Wander its medieval streets, visit its museums, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

When is the best time to visit Tuscany?

No matter the time of year you’ll have to experience the beauty of Tuscany.

Summer is often cited as the best time to visit Tuscany as it’s when the weather is best. However, it’s also when the crowds are at their biggest meaning long lines for the best things to do in Tuscany such as museums and galleries.

I’ve also visited Tuscany in spring and in late September and October and while it is a little bit colder and more likely to rain, there are usually fewer people around and prices are lower.

FAQs about this best itinerary Tuscany Italy

How many days in tuscany.

When it comes to how many days in Tuscany, I recommend spending 7 days in Florence and Tuscany which gives you time to visit other nearby places as well as see the city of Florence too.

Is Tuscany or Florence better?

Tuscany is a region known for landscapes and historic towns, while Florence is its capital of Tuscany and a city in Tuscany known for art and architecture. If you visit Florence, you’re visiting Tuscany.

What are the best months in Tuscany?

The best months in Tuscany are May, June, September, and October, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Is it better to go to Tuscany by train or car?

Going by car is preferable for exploring Tuscany’s countryside and smaller towns, while trains are efficient for connecting major cities.

Final thoughts on this Tuscany Itinerary 7 days

This Tuscany road trip 7 days itinerary has hopefully given you some ideas on how to plan your Tuscany travel itinerary.

From exploring big cities and towns like Florence and Siena to smaller countryside and hilltop towns, this Tuscany trip itinerary gives you a complete whistlestop tour of Tuscany.

If you want to add more stops to your Tuscany Italy itinerary I’ve included some places like Lake Como and Rome which are well worth checking out.

And, of course, you could go further south and explore places like Sicily, or go north and explore the Dolomites in Italy.

For more European travel guides to places like Norway, Switzerland, and the UK, check out my Europe travel guides.

Last Updated on September 7, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

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Feb 2, 2021

Tuscan Hill Towns by Train from Florence

Updated: Nov 13, 2022

I always recommend you do at least a week (in a private villa or B&B) in Tuscany but if your time is limited to several days in Florence and you don’t want the hassle of driving, then a day trip by train is a must. Traveling by train from Florence offers the opportunity to view the scenic changes in landscapes from city to countryside on your way to many historic towns. Here are just a few of my favorites.

Producers of gold jewelry, Piero Della Francesca‘s frescoes and it’s antique market Arezzo is heavy on charm and light on tourists.

Exit the train and head uphill on Via Guido to Piazza San Francesco and inside the Chiesa of the same name. This unassuming church holds Arezzo's most treasured pieces. Among the "must-see" is Italy's greatest fifteenth-century fresco cycle "Legends of the True Cross" by Piero Della Francesca.

For the shoppers, from Chiesa di San Francesco cross over two streets to Corso Italia. Did I mention that until recently Arezzo was known as the greatest producer of gold jewelry in Europe? Continue north on Corso Italia to Piazza Grande.

With its spectacular loggias, Arezzo's Piazza Grande is considered one of the most beautiful squares in all of Italy. It has been the center of this city's life since the 13th century and the world-famous antique market. On the first weekend of every month people from all over Italy and around the world shop from more than 500 antique vendors. It's amazing to see!

Stop for lunch at the cozy little Tuscan spot, Antica Osteria L'Angania on Via Mazzini, 10.

If you happen to be in Tuscany in the month of September, Arezzo hosts their annual Giostra del Saracino. This jousting tournament in medieval costume is held in Piazza Grande on the first Sunday in September every year. Perhaps arrange an overnight as it's the best way to experience this local tradition.

There are closer to sixty direct trains from Florence to Arezzo every weekday. Around forty-five on the weekends. The average travel time is about an hour. And a round trip ticket for a standard seat is around $20. You can find Trenitalia train schedules and pricing here .

Take a break from the hills and visit the city of Lucca. Lucca is enclosed by massive 16th-century defensive walls which provide a tranquil promenade for visitors as well as locals. Flat with little car traffic (mostly pedestrian inside the walls) Lucca makes for a tranquil visit. Beware of the hill towns listed here Lucca can be the busiest.

The train drops you right outside the walls of the city. Head north on Piazzale B. Ricasoli and make your way to Via Della Rosa. Once on Della Rosa, you can visit Lucca's Duomo di San Martino which houses Ghirlandaio's Madonna with Saints on the west side. East of Via Della Rosa, nature lovers will find Giardino Botanico quite enjoyable.

Continue north on Via Della Rosa to climb the infamous, unusual oak tree-topped Guinigi tower not only to see some amazing centuries-old trees planted but also the panoramic view of the city below. You can't miss it. Just look up from any area in Lucca and you will see it. The Palazzo was owned by the powerful Guinigi family. For a good perch to photograph the Guinigi tower with its trees chose less crowded Torre Delle Ore (Clock Tower) on Via Fillungo. This tower has kept the town's time for centuries.

From the tower head to the most famous square in town - Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. A gorgeous medieval piazza with shops and cafes. I bought some of my best linens from a tiny underground shop just outside the piazza. Sit for a spell with a glass of prosecco or mid-morning coffee and fresh-baked Buccellato. You can read more about the ancient sweet bread from Lucca here . Enjoy the everyday activities of the locals. Hardly any of the Roman amphitheater (180BC) survives but the piazza still takes the shape of the theater and the medieval houses that surround it were built into the amphitheater walls.

Back to the fully intact ramparts that surround Lucca. They are among the best-preserved renaissance walls in Europe. From Piazza dell'Anfiteatro head east to Via Fillungo and rent a bike from Biciclette Poli (Piazza Santa Maria, 42). Ride the wall's path with the locals.

Trains for Lucca leave Florence every hour and sometimes more frequently depending on the day of the week. The trip takes about seventy-five minutes and tickets start at $10 for one way. The train arrives south of the walls just outside Porta San Pietro. You can walk to the center of town from there. You can find Trenitalia train schedules and pricing here .

Certaldo is divided into two parts: Certaldo Basso (lower) - the more recent part of Certaldo and where the train arrives and Certaldo Alto (upper) - the historic center of Certaldo. Exit the train in the lower part and take the fun funicular(cable car) to the upper part of Certaldo. Or if you feel the need to scratch your legs there is a walking path uphill and you reach the city walls in about ten minutes more or less. I love this town for its size. It is very small and can be seen in its entirety within a couple of hours giving you lots of time to wander the narrow alleys for shops, great eats, and fantastic photo opportunities.

Certaldo Alto built almost entirely of brick is a fortified medieval village very well preserved despite the bombing during World War 2. All the buildings were built facing onto Via Boccaccio which honors its most famous resident- the poet Giovanni Boccaccio. Casa Boccaccio which has been totally rebuilt is now a museum. Climb to the top of the loggia (only a few floors) for a fantastic view of the valley below and as far as San Gimignano.

Facing onto the little piazza is the church of Santi Michele e Jacopo (Saints Michael and James). Built in the 13th century but damaged in the war the interior has been restored to its original Romanesque appearance. Step inside for a quick peek of the Della Robbia shrines on either side of the main altar and locate the bust of the aforementioned poet sculpted in 1503. To the left of the church is the 14th-century cloister.

Continue on up the street to Palazzo Pretoria originally the castle of the Conti Alberti who lived there until the 13th century when it became the residence of the Florentine Delegate. Notice the facade decorated with picturesque coats of arms in stone and glazed terracotta which record the Governors (Vicari) sent from Florence throughout the centuries. There is also a chapel of the doubting St. Thomas off the courtyard.

Train service runs hourly from Florence Santa Maria Novella to Certaldo every hour. It is a 52-minute ride with no changes so it makes it easy. Round trip tickets run about $15 depending on the season and the time of day you travel.

To book your tickets in advance or to check the details for each train itinerary you can click here .

Photography:

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