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Tuscany Tours & Trips

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10 best Tuscany tour packages

Compiled by

Melissa Tuscany travel expert at TourRadar

The Best of Tuscany - 4Days/3Nights

Italy by high-speed train, gems of rome & florence, florence city break - 3 days/2 nights, tuscany wine trails, discovering florence, italian triple centre with a world wonder, cycle tuscany, italian sojourn with leaning tower of pisa, rome and tuscan highlights (9 days).

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year
• Wine tasting
• See the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Enjoy a wine tasting lesson in Chianti
• Visit Palazzo Vecchio in Florence

“Amazing time, amazing people, amazing places. It's a great way to see such a grand area in a short time.”

• Train & Rail
• Find your favourite gelato flavour in Florence
• Discover the hidden gems of romantic Venice
• Opt for a wine tour and lunch in charming Tuscany

“Centrally-placed hotels facilitated seamless city immersion. The Venice tour, a standout, captured the city's charm.”

• Skip lines at the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
• Taste wines in the Chianti Region
• Explore Museo Nazionale Romano's art treasures

“Lovely tour, particularly of Siena and San Gimignano. From cathedrals to cobblestones, turrets to towers, this all-day tour was a wonderful experience.”

• Discover Tuscan vineyards and local wineries
• Taste Chianti wines and learn from producers
• Extend your stay and enjoy more of Florence

“The wine tour was absolutely amazing! The vineyards we visited as well as the sights we got to see along the way were like something out of the movies.”

• Food & Culinary
• Taste Chianti wines and local delicacies
• Explore Montalcino and savor Brunello wines
• Meet Vino Nobile producers in Montepulciano

• Stroll through historic Siena and San Gimignano
• Climb to the top of Florence's Duomo
• Explore Michelangelo's David at Accademia

“The private tours of the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries were super - the guides were knowledgeable and open to any question.”

• Tour Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica
• Taste Tuscany's famous wines and dishes
• Explore ancient Rome with a guided tour

“This was an excellent tour. We very much enjoyed the Coliseum/Forum tour. This was a highlight as was the Crypt and Catacomb tour.”

• Road Cycling
• Visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Taste gelato in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana
• Cycle through historic Florence and Vinci

“The bikes were good,routes good however a few involved heavy traffic.”

• Pose with the Leaning Tower of Pisa and explore
• Enjoy leisure time in Rome, Florence, and Venice
• Tour Tuscany's medieval towns and taste local wines

“The trip was great with a good balance of tours and free time. Accommodations were comfortable and very conveniently located.”

• Enjoy panoramic views of the Tuscan Hills
• Grab a photo against the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Stroll through the ancient streets of Rome

“He was very well versed on history and customs and knew the cities well, giving us a complete picture of past and present life in Italy.”

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Tuscany Holidays

• Rural Tuscany
• Tuscan Riviera
• Travel guide
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Our handpicked Tuscany holidays are all creamy coastline and Tuscan countryside driving through Italy’s most famous wine region or lounging on the beach

From tangerine and ochre tinted rolling fields and castles in the sky to golden sands where wealthy Italians spend their weekends, Tuscany holidays are rural countryside masterpieces and stylish Riviera breaks. Expect decadent wine tastings, menus overseen by Gordon Ramsay, designer shops in seaside towns and ancient ruins high up in the hills.

Ask us for palms, pines and beachfront vibes lapped by the Tyrrhenian Sea and we’ll put you in the pretty coastal town of Viareggio under a private beach cabana where dipping in and out of the deep blue is as strenuous as it gets. We’ll make you sure sip a glass of Champagne at one of Forte dei Marmi’s exclusive beach clubs and see an open-air Puccini opera under a star strewn Tuscan sky. Tell us you want to share medieval cobblestoned streets with Michelangelo sculptures, Duccio masterpieces and works by Donatello and we’ll send you to the heart of historic Siena pinpointing the magical ruins of Sal Galgano’s abbey and the striking Carolingian chapel inside the active monastery of Sant’ Antimo as hot spots to visit too. And if you heard it on the grapevine that this is the land of a thousand wine tours we’ll unleash your inner oenophile at legendary vineyards dripping down the hills of Chianti, tasting full bodied Super-Tuscans and indulgent farm-to-fork treats.

In an enviable location within easy reach of Florence and Pisa, holidays to Tuscany add an extra dimension to your Italian adventure – fortified cities laid out on Roman grids, slivers of silvery countryside olive groves and a sugary coastline disappearing into secrets coves. Talk to an expert begin your Tuscan adventure.

Tuscany Regions

Our recommendations for the best places to visit in Tuscany

Rural Tuscany Holidays

Holidays to rural Tuscany are a food and wine paradise filled with medieval soul and breathtaking...

Tuscan Riviera Holidays

Tuscan Riviera holidays are stylish seaside resorts with a little bit of medieval thrown into the...

Holidays in Tuscany

A wonderful mix of old meets new in this former farmhouse which is characterised by pure Tuscan style.

A luxury boutique hotel housed in a 17th-century palazzo right in the heart of Siena’s ancient centre.

Go all out with a special stay at this boutique hotel on a sprawling 10th-century castle estate among the Tuscan hills.

In the peaceful countryside close to Florence, this historic wine-making estate is an idyllic base from which to explore Tuscany.

A collection of farmhouses on a 900-acre estate resort in the Tuscan countryside.

Action-packed break or pure relaxation – you decide how things go in this refined and blissful escape in Tuscany.

Surrounded by olive groves and the Tuscan countryside, this is a picture-perfect spot for a wellbeing escape.

Bright, breezy, and welcoming, with a well-regarded seafood restaurant.

Set on one of Viareggio’s most attractive stretches of coastline, this historic hotel provides a taste of classic beachside living.

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Get to know Tuscany and those important practicalities when planning your perfect holiday.

GMT +1 hour

Pisa: 2¼ hours

Christianity (Roman Catholic)

Where is Tuscany? Tuscany is a region in central Italy bordering Liguria to the northwest, the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west and Umbria to the east. Its capital is the historic city of Florence and it’s divided into ten provinces including Lucca and Siena. The vast landscape of Chianti sits between Florence and Siena and stretches almost into Pisa to the east.

Getting around Tuscany Hiring a car is the most flexible way of exploring Tuscany. The roads are good – if not sometimes busy around Florence and Siena – and the pretty winding back roads are much quieter offering beautiful scenic routes to tiny villages and towns. Driving around historical centres is not permitted so we advise parking your car just outside and then walking in.

Food & drink A gourmet adventure with specialities varying in each area, expect a focus on fresh local ingredients, renowned wines and Tuscan olive oils. Grilled and roasted meats are high on the list as is cucina povera – hearty but simple food made with fresh produce. Make sure to try homemade ribbons of egg pasta, Florentine T-bone steak and the classic Tuscan antipasto misto. You’ll find pretty tavernas serving classic dishes, excellent pizzerias and centuries old buildings housing restaurants with extensive wine lists where you can try those famous sweet and dry reds. Book a wine-tasting tour to discover some of the region’s most renowned wines and learn how to pair them with your favourite Italian dishes.

Rural Tuscany A journey through rural Tuscany will see you visiting the magnificent medieval hilltop town of San Gimignano, a sprawling land of vineyards in Chianti and a trip inside the well-preserved ancient walls of Siena. Head to the medieval piazza, Campo, visit the dazzling Duomo, the crypt, baptistery and Museo dell’Opera. Drive through the wilder parts of Tuscany for tiny wine towns, ancient hilltop villages, Renaissance churches and active monasteries.

Tuscan Riviera Visit the exclusive seaside town of Forte dei Marmi, a mecca of designer boutiques, stylish beach clubs and great restaurants. A 20-minute drive away is the pretty seaside town of Viareggio famed for its long beaches, pine forests, Liberty-style buildings and renowned summer carnival. Within easy reach of Pisa and the medieval city of Lucca, this is a great base for exploring more of Tuscany. For a magical night under the stars, Torre del Lago’s Puccini festival held every July and August has a full calendar of opera held in locations including an incredible 3,400 seat open-air theatre.

Tuscany Weather

Our experts have curated a wide range of handpicked Tuscany offers to make your next holiday extra special. Make the most of great-value savings, exclusive upgrades and bespoke touches. 

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Tuscany & Cinque Terre Tours from Florence

Explore tuscany and cinque terre like never before, experiencing the best tours in the comfort of our luxurious mercedes vans, expertly guided by our passionate driver-guides..

Choose Your Ideal Tour Experience

Our small group tours foster a sense of community and shared adventure , perfect for those who enjoy socializing. For a more exclusive and tailored experience , our private tours offer flexible schedules, ensuring a personalized journey that meets your specific interests and needs.

Small Group Tours

Come see the Cinque Terre and the Leaning Tower of Pisa in one day. These two UNESCO heritage sites will take your breath away.

Starting at

Join a scenic tour of the Chianti region and taste a selection of some of the best wines that Italy has to offer .

Private Tours

A Day Tour To The Heart Of Tuscany: Val d’Orcia, land of Gourmet Cheese, delicious Food and excellent Wine

Explore charming Tuscan villages and taste some of the best Chianti wine in the world.

Take in the rolling hills and beautiful sunsets of Tuscany and end your day with a wine tasting and dinner at a local winery.

Discover the famous Italian engines that have made their mark on history and taste the art of balsamic vinegar.

Tuscan Adventure: City Walls, The Leaning Tower Of Pisa & Wine Tasting

Come with us to taste some of Italy’s most famous food products

Tuscan Adventure: The Leaning Tower Of Pisa and The City Walls of Lucca

Benefits of Choosing Us

Why our guests love truescany, expert guides.

Our drivers are highly trained guides , ensuring informative and engaging tours.

Luxury Vans

Travel in the latest model Mercedes vans , always impeccably clean and well-maintained.

Complimentary iPads

Each couple gets an iPad with internet for easy navigation and video calls to make friends and family envious.

Clear Audio

Vans equipped with audio guides so everyone hears clearly, no matter where they’re seated.

Professional Appearance

Drivers dress elegantly to make a great first impression and enhance your experience.

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A Family Tradition of Tuscan Hospitality

Meet our drivers, your guides and friends on the journey.

We’re proud to introduce our team of expert driver-guides. Each member has undergone impeccable academic training to provide outstanding service, ensuring your experience is both informative and enjoyable.

MERCEDES BENZ CLASS V

The V-Class has a clear interpretation of the Mercedes-Benz design language. It is possible to personalize the exterior character: for example, with the Night package, the AMG Line, the AMG spoiler lip, and many interesting alloy wheel proposals.

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MERCEDES BENZ VITO TOURER

You will travel in impeccably maintained Mercedes vans, guided by expert driver-guides who’ll make your journey truly unforgettable.

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Flights, hotels, & tours

Destination highlights, tuscany holidays.

Join us on one of our Tuscany holidays to discover Italy’s rolling green hills and romantic towns. In addition to its glorious landscapes and cities of art, Tuscany is world renowned for its thermal spas and wine production. It's not surprising it's one of the most popular destinations in Italy for over 50s!

Holidays in Tuscany

Regarded as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, holidays in Tuscany are steeped in art, music, and literature. On our guided tours, we visit the crown jewel of the region, Florence where art and history lovers will be enthralled with the heritage of this beautiful city. There will be plenty of free time to soak in its incredible atmosphere and to uncover its countless attractions like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria.

Travel Italy and make sure Tuscany is on your list as its countryside is blessed with unspoilt natural beauty. With its rich soil ideal for the cultivation of vines, olives, cereals and sunflowers, it provides the backdrop to perfectly placed hilltop villages, country churches and traditional stone farmhouses. Amidst all its splendour lies the thermal spa town of Montecatini, the ideal base for our holidays to Tuscany to unwind during our free days at leisure and to easily access the top sights.

Our Tuscany holidays from Dublin, Ireland are always popular, with guided tours to Pisa and its Leaning tower, Lucca, Siena and medieval San Gimignano. They include a variety of excursions around medieval hill towns and lush vineyards, and introduce a different way to experience this Italian region.

All our Tuscany holidays include half-board hotel accommodation, flights, transfers, exciting excursions, and an expert, local guide, so all you have to worry about is what to pack – Get booking today!

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Top places to visit & tourist attractions in tuscany.

The rich cultural and history of Florence makes it a must-see destination for any traveller. But beyond its impressive heritage, this city is one of Italy's most atmospheric and pleasant, retaining a strong resemblance to the quaint late-medieval centre that contributed so much to the cultural and political development of Europe. Its striking buildings, formidable galleries and treasure-crammed churches are a feast for the eyes. On our holidays to Tuscany, we’ll discover all of the highlights of Florence including visits to its famous Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria.

The beautiful Renaissance town of Lucca is not only the birthplace of Puccini but also the only city in Italy completely surrounded by walls. These remarkably intact city walls provide an ideal set of viewpoints from which to see the town’s rooftops, bell towers and lush surrounding countryside. On our trips to Tuscany, we’ll have free time to visit Lucca’s impressive Cathedral of San Martino, which houses Tintoretto’s painting of The Last Supper and a wooden cross carved by the biblical figure Nicodemus.

Thanks to its extraordinary Leaning Tower and the impressive Campo dei Miracoli where the tower is situated, the university town of Pisa is one of Tuscany’s top attractions. The town’s historic centre has well-preserved Romanesque architecture and spacious piazzas, where students and locals enjoy the city’s buzzing café and bar scene. On our holidays to Tuscany, we’ll get to discover this picturesque town and even have time for a picture or two with the iconic Leaning Tower.

Siena & San Gimignano

One of the most charming aspects of Tuscany are the tiny medieval towns dotted across this region’s lush landscape. On our holidays, we’ll visit two of the most scenic, Siena and San Gimignano. In Siena, a Gothic walled city that boasts some of the finest architecture in the region, we’ll wander its winding streets and impressive Piazza del Campo, home to the famous horse race. In the hilltop town of San Gimignano, we’ll have free time to admire its impressive display of medieval tower houses or try some of its delicious local wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

Tuscany Escorted Tours Highlights

• Stay in Montecatini, a beautiful town built around its mineral water springs. 
• Learn more about the Renaissance with a walking tour of Florence, visit the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.
• Explore Piazza dei Miracoli, Square of Miracles, and see the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. 
• Enjoy guided excursions to quintessential Tuscan towns and cities, such as Lucca, Siena & San Gimignano.

Looking for more information? Check out our Tuscany travel guide.

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• Accommodation

Optional Excursions

Tour overview.

Join this magical trip to Tuscany and you’ll stay in a comfortable four-star hotel in the delightful town of Montecatini Terme. Renowned for its thermal waters, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.

You’ll head out to explore all that Tuscany has to offer on a series of day trips. We’ve included a guided tour of the incredible city of Florence and an opportunity to admire the Leaning Tower of Pisa. You will also discover stunning medieval towns surrounded by beautiful countryside and enjoy a tasting of wine and local specialities in Chianti – delicious!

In between the sightseeing you can make your own plans, relax at the hotel, explore independently, or join one of our optional excursions, it’s your holiday so pick whatever’s right for you.

Your Holiday Includes

• Return flights from London
• 7 nights in a 4-star hotel
• 13 meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 light lunch, 5 dinners and welcome drink
• Travelsphere Holiday Director and Specialist Local Guide
• Overseas transfers, other transportation & porterage

Included Holiday Highlights

• See the Leaning Tower of Pisa and visit the Leonardo da Vinci Museum
• Local food and wine-tasting at Castello di Vicchiomaggio in Chianti
• Night at the Montecatini Opera Festival (subject to timetable and weather)
• Trip to the 'art city' of Florence
• Tour of medieval Lucca

Day 1 UK - Pisa

Your holiday starts today as you travel to the airport and fly to Pisa. When you arrive, we’ll drive you straight to your hotel in the peaceful spa town of Montecatini Terme. Situated between Pisa and Florence, it’s the perfect place from which to explore the delights of Tuscany.

Day 2 Pisa - Vinci

Your adventure begins in earnest with an exciting morning excursion to the city of Pisa. Awe at the aptly named Leaning Tower of Pisa that sits within the city’s Field of Miracles, next to the impressive marble cathedral and mighty Pisa Baptistery.

Later, we'll head to the hilltop town of Vinci, famous for being the birthplace of legendary Italian artist and sculptor Leonardo da Vinci. Known for his hugely influential works like 'The Last Supper' and the 'Mona Lisa', a Local Guide will teach us all about the artist's life during the Renaissance era. We'll also stop off at the Museum of Leonardo da Vinci to see some of his early inventions.

Day 3 Chianti

Wine aficionados will particularly look forward to today's trip to Chianti, one of the country's most prestigious wine regions. We travel to Greve, where you'll find the idyllic Castello di Vicchiomaggio, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved castles in Tuscany, immersed in a park of more than 130 hectares. The castle in the heart of the Chianti Classico region has a long history of wine-making, dating right back to the 10th century. It's made an awful lot of wine! Take a tour of its 16th century underground wine cellars to see where the wine is traditionally aged in huge oak barrels and learn how the grapes are still harvested by hand. It'll then be time for a tasting and a light lunch of complementary local speciality dishes on the castle's atmospheric terrace which overlooks miles of lush Tuscan vineyards.

Later, you'll get to enjoy an open-air performance at the renowned Montecatini Opera Festival.

Day 4 Florence

Today we discover irresistible Florence. The capital of Tuscany and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's also known as Italy's 'art city' thanks to dozens of stunning structures and galleries packed with masterpieces from the Renaissance period. Tick off its top sights, from the medieval Ponte Vecchio lined with jewellery shops to the magnificent Duomo with its terracotta-tiled dome, on a tour hosted by a Local Guide.

Florence is also a great city to indulge in a spot of shopping, whether that's designer stores or local markets. Head to Mercato Nuovo for unique souvenirs and to see the bronze statue of Il Porcellino (the Boar) that's said to give you good luck if you rub its snout and place a coin in its mouth.

Day 5 Montecatini - at Leisure

Enjoy a day at leisure soaking up the delights of Montecatini Terme. Perhaps visit one of the town's thermal spas for a pampering treatment or take a funicular railway ride up to the medieval village of Montecatini Alto to admire fabulous panoramic views.

You'll also have the chance to join an optional excursion that begins with a visit to the beautiful hilltop town of San Gimignano. We'll spend the morning admiring gorgeous views of the Tuscan countryside and exploring the town's 14 medieval towers, built by families as a display of their power and wealth. Next up is a brief stop at the charming hamlet of Abbadia a Isola and its peaceful 10th-century abbey, before we head to the town of Monteriggioni for a guided history tour of its beautifully intact medieval walls and buildings. Try on replica armour and get to grips with historic weaponry at the Museum of Medieval Armour and Weapons before tucking into a traditional meal at a local restaurant.

Day 6 Montecatini - at Leisure

You have the flexibility of deciding how to spend your day. You could indulge in another relaxing spa treatment in Montecatini Terme, explore the town’s tempting range of restaurants and boutiques, or pack in even more Tuscan treasures with our full-day optional tour. You’ll visit the beautiful hilltop town of Montalcino. It's famed for producing Brunello di Montalcino, a red wine made primarily from subtly spicy Sangiovese grapes. After meandering around the town's cobbled lanes, we'll move on to Siena to discover its lovely medieval charm. Strolling through the perfectly preserved city centre, you’ll discover highlights including the spectacular fan-shaped main square, Piazza del Campo, and a striking white-marble cathedral.

Day 7 Lucca

Today, you'll spend time in one of Tuscany's most beautiful towns - Lucca. It lies just west of Montecatini Terme and is bursting with some of the finest examples of Italian medieval and Renaissance architecture. As well as being the birthplace of composer Puccini, Lucca is also home to the Volto Santo relic. This sacred wooden sculpture of Christ thought to date back to 742 AD, is kept in the city's stunning Romanesque St Martin Cathedral.

Day 8 Pisa - UK

It’s the end of an incredible week in Tuscany and after breakfast, we’ll take you back to the airport for your flight home.

Additional Information

What to expect from food and drink in Italian Hotels

Traditionally evening meals are served as a three-course dinner, with a choice of the second-course dish either decided in advance or on the evening, although some hotels will serve a buffet or accompanying salad buffet. As a group you will enjoy a set meal together.

The first course ‘Primi’ will be a local dish of pasta, risotto or occasionally pizza or soup, ‘Secondi’ is the second course which will be a protein-based dish with a local meat or fish served simply with one vegetable or potato on the side. ‘Dolci’ the dessert part of the dinner is a simple traditional dessert of fruit, cake or gelato.

Enjoying a coffee is a typical social activity in Italian culture. An electric kettle is not a common domestic appliance in Italy and therefore it is quite common for hotels to not offer coffee and tea facilities within the rooms, but instead serve in the main restaurant / bar.

Accommodation (as specified or similar)

Grand hotel tamerici & principe.

Grand Hotel Tamerici & Principe is in the heart of the spa town of Montecatini Terme, close to parks, thermal spas and shops. Distinguished by elegant furnishing the family-run hotel has a big hall with different seating arrangements, a garden terrace with a swimming pool, a bar and a restaurant serving a mix of Italian and international cuisine. The hotel has a Wellness Centre (payable locally), including the Myricae SPA with sauna, Turkish bath, emotional showers with chromo-therapy, a hot tub with mini-pool, a relaxation area and Tearoom. If you wish to upgrade to a prestige room with a balcony for a supplement please call and our Holiday Advisors will be happy to assist (available on selected departures).

Experience even more of your destination by adding one or more optional experiences to your holiday before you set off. Take a look below at the extra trips you can enjoy on this tour

Italy - San Gimignano, Monteriggioni and Abbadia a Isola including traditional meal

Italy - Medieval Montalcino and Siena

Further information.

Group sizes vary between tours - we have an average group size of 27. We endeavour to make sure the size of the group has a positive impact on each trip and our guests almost always say that the group was one of the highlights of the trip!

When you book a holiday, you will be asked to pay a deposit, this will be made clear at the time of booking. In most cases we will charge the following deposit amount;

• European Holidays - £200 Per person
• Worldwide Holidays - £250 or 10% whichever is the greater
• Ocean Cruises - £250 or 10% whichever is the greater

On some holidays we may charge a slightly higher deposit, to cover any costs we have to pay immediately to secure your booking with our suppliers. This will be made clear at the time of booking.

If you choose a tour that is within 84 days of departure you will need to pay the full balance when you book.

If you decide to cancel your confirmed booking you must notify us (or your travel agent) in writing, as soon as possible. Since we incur costs in cancelling your arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown below.

• More than 75 days before departure - Loss of deposit only
• 43 - 74 days - 50% of tour price
• 29 - 42 days - 75% of tour price
• 15 - 28 days - 90% of tour price
• Day of Departure - 14 days - 100% of tour price

Our full cancellation policy can be found in our booking terms and conditions , section 8.

We have partnered with Sherpa, an on-line self service tool that allows you to search up-to-date information regarding travel entry requirements for all countries and also allows you to apply for eVisas or eTAs via their on-line portal. Just click on this link to find out more – Travel Requirements & Visa Service

You can also refer to the Foreign Travel Advice section on the gov.uk website: Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK ( www.gov.uk ). Click on your destination and then click on 'Entry Requirements'. For Health Requirements, the Department of Health also offers travellers health advice on www.travelhealthpro.org.uk , click on country information to locate your destination.

It is important to remember that passport, visa and health requirements can change before departure; therefore, we recommend you regularly familiarise yourself with the latest requirements before you travel. If you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements, we are unable to accept any responsibility.

For some destinations, it is not always discernable that a visa is required for entry at the border.  For example, for some customers, to travel to the United States, an ESTA may be required. For Canada, an ETA and to India, an e-visa may be needed. Please do check your requirements to avoid any unnecessary cost and delays.

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Welcome to Tour Tuscany!

A chianti classico winery offering wine tours, degustations & more in the tuscan rolling hills, launch into adventure at this tuscan leafy sanctuary, where ancient italian tradition meets modern organic technique and utmost care for nature..

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Light Lunch

Italians say that food and wine are inseparable companions at any table – a mosaic of sorts, and one does not exist without another. We truly believe in this notion and would like to offer you a possibility to learn some simple and traditional recipes in Montemaggio while touring the Tuscan area, sipping your new favorite Chianti Classico wines .

Tour Tuscany and explore the vineyards, enjoy wine tastings and degustations with sampling our different products.

Other estate activities, embrace tuscan vibrant culture.

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See more ideas and articles from tour tuscany.

The Perfect Summer Road Trip in Chianti Classico

Discovering tuscany: a journey through its finest wine destinations, savor the flavors of tuscany: perfect summer recipes to pair with rosè sangiovese.

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The Best Tuscany Tours To Take in 2024 and Why

Ian Sumpter Last Updated: September 26, 2023

Looking into visiting Tuscany? Excellent choice, Tuscany is home to countless classic artworks, beautiful architecture, delicious local cuisine, fantastic vineyards, an superfluous natural beauty. With so much to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which Tuscany tours to experience during your visit. In this guide, discover our best  Tuscany Tours and pick which one is best for you.

Pro Tip: Planning what to do on your trip to Tuscany? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you need it. Check out our guide to Tuscany for more planning resources and our Top Things to do in Tucany for a memorable trip.

Should You Take a Tour in Tuscany?

Absolutely! Tuscany is quintessential Italy, but logistics can be difficult. More importantly, one of the best experiences you can have in Tuscany is a long lazy lunch at a vineyard, and you don’t want to be driving after that.

The best way to enjoy all that Tuscany has to offer is with the help of a professional guide who truly loves their region and has all the insider knowledge. Don’t believe me? Check out what other clients have said!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Tuscany Guide for more info.

The Best and Most Popular Tuscany Tours To Take

Tuscany has a lot to offer every kind of traveler, which makes it a popular destination. It has cultural attractions, beautiful architecture, a great food and bar scene, as well as a diverse countryside. Tuscan Hills, anyone?

The great news is that the area is extremely well set up for tourism with many innovative tours and experiences. Counting down to our absolute favorites, here are the best Florence tours!

1. Tuscany Wineland Safari from Florence

2. best of tuscany tour by vespa from florence, 3. explore the wonderful cities of lucca and pisa, 4. explore the chianti hills with the best tuscany wine tours.

Looking for a VIP-like experience? This tour is one of a kind. Instead of a tour bus or even a luxury van, you will jump into an iconic Land Rover and traverse the Tuscan countryside.

You’ll find yourself going from paved roads to vineyard trails in no time. It is a special experience for the adventurous at heart that will make your trip that much more memorable. The tour includes pick-up in Florence, a stop at a vineyard with wine tasting, a wine-filled picnic, and various stops in Tuscan towns, including a medieval castle.

Highlights:

• 7-hour day tour
• Off-Road Chianti Hills tour in 4×4 vehicle
• Wine tour of Chianti farmhouse, cellar, and vineyards
• Visit a Medieval Tuscan castle
• Authentic three-course Tuscan lunch

See tour itinerary, price, and description

There are very few Italian things more iconic than the Vespa. In this tour, you’ll learn to ride the stylish motorcycle that has been a cornerstone of Italian style. Then, you’ll set off from Florence and ride through the rolling hills and ancient villages of Tuscany. 

Along the way, you’ll stop at two of the best Chianti wineries to taste some fantastic wine and local produce. Your guide will point out their favorite places and views you ride through the region’s enchanting countryside.

This tour is an exciting way to get outdoors and explore beyond the city of Florence and sample the good food, wine, and way of life in this famous part of Italy.

• 6-hour tour
• Vintage Vespa rental and training session
• Guided ride through the Tuscan countryside
• Wine tasting at two Chianti wineries
• Hearty, traditional local lunch

While Pisa is renowned for its spectacular leaning tower, the sumptuous baptistery, and the Romanesque cathedral, Lucca is a less visited but arguably far more stunning destination.

While it is possible to explore both these days on your own, it requires expert planning of multiple train timetables, a wish that there’s no strike action, and a prayer that the air conditioning is working.

With this tour, you can put aside all that worry. You’ll meet your English speaking trip-leader in Florence before traveling to the walled town of Lucca and the university city of Pisa. You’ll have plenty of free time to explore both before jumping back onto your air-conditioned transport for a relaxing ride back to the base.

• Comfortable, air-conditioned round-trip from Florence
• Up to three and a half hours of free time in Pisa
• Up to two and a half hours of free time in
• Friendly English-speaking trip leader

The rolling hills of Chianti, the historic town of Siena, picturesque Tuscan village, sunbaked farmhouses? This tour has them all and throws in door-to-door private air-conditioned transportation. From your apartment or hotel, your private driver will pick you off before whisking you away to historic Siena, you’ll be given time to explore the wonderful cathedral and the beautiful squares dotted around the city. From there, you’ll be driven past vineyards and olive groves on your way to an amazing home-cooked meal at a beautiful organic farmhouse. You’ll have already had a few glasses of wine by this stage, so you’ll be thankful as your driver takes you off to a bucolic local town before going on to more tastings at a local vineyard. With a private driver at the wheel, all you need to do is sit back, maybe tack a nap, and be dropped off back at your front door. If that’s not worth it, I don’t know what is!

• Enjoy an amazing home-cooked lunch at an organic farmhouse
• Drink plenty of Chianti’s best wines
• Private luxury climate-controlled transportation

Where To Stay in Tuscany

Arezzo  | Chianti |  Lucca  |  Montepulciano  |  Pisa  |  Pistoia  |  San Gimignano  |  Siena  |  Volterra

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Tours and Guided Visits in Tuscany

Anyone who enjoys traveling and discovering a new place with an organized tour will find several offers for visiting Tuscany on short, one day tours as well as through longer tours, such as as weekly tour of Tuscany . Tours in Tuscany can be of several types, from the more classic ones that visit the most beautiful cities in Tuscany to the popular food and wine tours and shopping tours. Anyone that has never been to Tuscany or who wishes to visit the region comfortably can select a guided tour to facilitate their trip to Tuscany's " cities of art " such as Florence, Siena, Pisa and Lucca and to the other well-known areas of the regions, such as Chianti, Val d'Orcia and Maremma. Tuscany is a land of great culinary traditions, precious wines and excellent extra virgin olive oil and an enogastronomic tour is an excellent method to learn the tastes and traditional products of the region. In the last few years wine tours have also enjoyed a great deal of success, offering the opportunity to visit Tuscany's great wineries and enjoy tastings of Tuscany greatest wines, often accompanied with tastings of other Tuscan specialties and traditional products. Those who love fashion can also enjoyed organized shopping tours to the main shops and outlets of the top Italian and Tuscan fashion designers found in the region. Anyone who enjoys being outdoors or in a cycling aficionada con also enjoy guided itineraries in Tuscany's natural parks , bicycle tours and other guided visits on bike. There are many thematic, small tours dedicated to Tuscan craftsmanship and the local production of wine, cold cuts and cheeses. Select the organized tour you prefer and let yourself be guided in the discovery of Tuscany!

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Bike Florence & Tuscany Day Tours

Have you ever dreamed of biking in Tuscany? Then do so in the company of expert riders Piero and Elena who will show you the way through the hills of Chianti, Siena, San Gimignano and Florence, offering all you need to make your ride fun and worry-free!

Which are the best tours for Summer Vacations in Tuscany?

Summer vacation in Tuscany is the moment to enjoy the beauty of the landscape, the fresh air & outdoor activities. With so many different types of organized tours on the market, how do you navigate the offers to find the best one for you? Check out our list of top summer tours in Tuscany.

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A Day Tour to Cinque Terre

If you have to absolutely go visit the Cinque Terre from Florence, we highly recommend this group day tour: travel faster by bus to have more free time in each town and then go on an absolute must, the boat ride!

Chianti Tours

Join a guided tour to go wine tasting - no need to worry about driving after! Or a cycling tour, to have the bike and assistance as you need it. Don't want to drive? Then join a tour! Lots of various tours and options to see the best of Chianti, without worrying about the how.

Explore Tuscany with your own chauffeur

Do you want to explore the area and go wine tasting without worrying about driving? Then hire Francesco as your private driver to take you around Tuscany, whether it is wine tasting or exploring hilltop towns in Chianti. He also offers airport and other transfers.

Flying over the skies of the Val d'Orcia on a Hot Air Balloon

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An exclusive tour of the Duomo in Florence

See the best in Florence, by visiting the Duomo and its terrace. This private tour with an exclusive visit to the Rooftop Terraces of the Duomo in Florence is ideal: you can skip-the-line with your personal guide into the cathedral and to the terraces. After the tour, continue up to the rest of the way to visit the cupola, and if you have energy, the Bell Tower, Baptistery & Duomo Museum on your own.

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The Perfect Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary (+ Driving Tips!)

Planning the perfect Tuscany road trip itinerary is no easy feat–but it’s well worth getting right.

If you’re dreaming of delicious Italian food, of romantic sunsets and Tuscan wines, of rolling hills peppered with vineyards as far as the eye can see, of hilltop villages and of Renaissance art, this Tuscany itinerary has you covered.

We’ve put this ultimate guide to planning a Tuscany road trip after spending several months traveling in the region over a period of years, often on road trips.

We’ve explored Tuscany by car, train, and tour, in large multigenerational family groups and as a couple, in tiny towns and in the fabulous cities of Florence and Siena.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

We’ve visited museums, gone horseback riding, zipped along countryside roads on a Vespa, and taken quiet strolls down deserted country lanes. We’ve taken food tours and wine tours, and stopped at more than our fair share of vineyards and restaurants independently, too.

Suffice it to say, we absolutely adore traveling in Tuscany, and this Tuscany itinerary is put together based on our detailed experiences traveling in the region as well as additional research.

We want to help you plan your perfect Tuscany road trip itinerary, especially if it’s your first time in the region.

Here’s what we suggest.

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary

How long will this tuscany itinerary take, getting around during your tuscany road trip, will this tuscany itinerary work without a car, the ultimate tuscany road trip itinerary, other destinations to add to your tuscany road trip itinerary, tuscany road trip itinerary map, the best time to visit tuscany, useful travel tips for driving in tuscany, what to pack for your tuscany road trip.

We structured this Tuscany road trip itinerary as a loop beginning and ending in Florence.

It’s designed primarily for first-time visitors to the region who want to soak up the classic Tuscany experience: think rolling hills, golden light, scrumptious wine, picturesque hilltop villages, and some of the best food you’ve ever eaten in your life.

… But that being said, even longtime lovers of Tuscany will find something for them here (just ask our extended family).

With this Tuscany itinerary, you’ll visit some of the most iconic places in the region, while also peppering in stops at smaller towns and attractions that would likely go unnoticed if you stuck to exploring via train.

Is it a cop-out to say that this Tuscany road trip will take as long as you have?

Perhaps, but whether you have 5 days in Tuscany, a week in Tuscany, or a month in Tuscany, this circular route will provide an excellent backbone to your Tuscany road trip.

If your trip is short–say 5 days in Tuscany or less–you’ll be able to shorten your stays in some towns (in a pinch, for example, Pisa and Lucca can be combined into one day), and with a longer trip to Tuscany, you’ll have a chance to adopt a leisurely pace and add in more excursions like wine tasting or days spent at one of Tuscany’s saunas.

Ideally, I would say that this Tuscany road trip would be spread across roughly 10 days to 2 weeks in Tuscany, but of course, that won’t always be possible–especially if you want to see more regions of Italy during your trip!

If you do have a longer trip to Tuscany planned, we recommend taking a look at some of the additional Tuscany road trip destinations that we’ve outlined below the main itinerary and seeing what other spots catch your eye.

For most people, of course, taking a Tuscany road trip will require renting a car.

We’ll cover some tips and tricks for renting a car here below the Tuscany itinerary (or you can use the table of contents section at the bottom of the introduction to this Tuscany travel blog post to navigate there!), but here’s the short version: we recommend renting a small car in Tuscany through Discover Cars , which will allow you to compare prices and inclusions of multiple companies at the same time and choose the best car for you from there.

We also recommend renting your car only after you leave Florence, which we’ll cover a bit more below, so you likely won’t need one for every day of your trip to Tuscany!

Check rates & book your rental car with Discover Cars today!

Short answer? Yes, it can.

Through a combination of trains, buses, and carefully selected guided tours (we recommend several reputable ones in our Things to Do in Florence post ), this Tuscany itinerary can be completed without a car, though the logistics will be challenging in certain places.

That being said, there’s something very special about taking a Tuscany road trip, and by not driving, you will lose out on the charm of seeing some of the smaller towns at night, miss some of the prettiest vistas, and have a little less freedom in planning your trip.

However, we completely understand that not everyone planning a Tuscany itinerary can or would like to drive, and we fully believe you can have a deeply fulfilling trip to Tuscany without a car–we’ve done it several times ourselves.

And, while you will lose some freedom, you’ll also gain a bit of peace of mind, as driving in Tuscany is certainly not the most carefree driving in the world!

Start your Tuscany itinerary in Florence.

As the capital of Tuscany, Cradle of the Renaissance, and home to the biggest airport (and train station) in the region, there’s no better place to start your Tuscany itinerary than in Florence.

Ideally, we recommend a minimum of two full days here, which will give you enough time to explore all of the major sights.

Marvel at the art in the Uffizi Gallery, soak in the views from Piazzale Michelangelo and more, (window)shop for gold jewelry on the Ponte Vecchio, eat your way through Mercato Centrale, stand in awe of the Duomo, and visit Michelangelo’s masterpiece David in the Galleria dell’Accademia.

We’ve created several guides to Florence based on our six weeks or so spent exploring the city, including a one-day itinerary and a two-day itinerary , so be sure to check those out for more detail.

For this Tuscany road trip itinerary in particular, though, we have a crucial piece of advice regarding driving: don’t pick up your rental car until the morning you leave Florence.

Having a rental car while in the city is not only unnecessary, it’s an absolute burden. Driving in Florence’s historic city center is extremely limited, and you’ll save both money and headaches by ditching the car until you’re ready to hit the countryside.

Where to Stay in Florence

B&B Le Stanze del Duomo  — Though Florence hotels can be a bit pricey and stretch the definition of “budget”, B&B Le Stanze’s beautiful rooms and impeccable location in Florence will be sure to have you swooning!

Check rates & book your stay at B&B Le Stanze del Duomo!

Bargello Guest House  — Located in the heart of Florence, this property is only a short (read: less than 5-minute) walk away from some of Florence’s highlights like the Palazzo Vecchio. Staying here, you’ll be within easy walking distance of the best of what Florence has to offer.

Check rates & book your stay at Bargello Guest House!

Hotel Lungarno  — Nestled right against the Arno River and home to one of the best views of the Ponte Vecchio in Florence (not to mention some of the best views of the rest of Florence from their top deck), Hotel Lungarno is our personal “if we ever  really  want to splurge” hotel in Florence. You can’t go wrong using Hotel Lungarno as your base for one day in Florence!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Lungarno!

Start your Tuscany road trip and drive to Lucca.

Laidback and charming, colorful Lucca is the perfect first stop on your Tuscany road trip and an excellent place to grow accustomed to the ins and outs of driving and parking in Tuscan towns.

Lucca is not too big, not too small, and parking is fairly easy to find right outside the city walls.

It also happens to be a gorgeous, relaxing city that is a fantastic place to soak up the ambiance of Tuscany.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the beautiful Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, which, like Siena’s main piazza, is actually an oval rather than a traditional square, and to stroll along the tops of the city’s 16th-century fortifying walls, which are completely accessible to the public.

Don’t miss a climb up Torre Guinigi, either–not only does it boast incredible views of Lucca, but it’s home to several oak trees that are growing in the sky!

Stop by Pisa.

I’ll be perfectly honest: of all the places we recommend or mention in this Tuscany itinerary, Pisa is the one I’m least in a hurry to get back to.

It’s generally far more crowded than most of these other destinations–even the very touristy ones–and outside of Pisa’s famous tower and surrounding historic complex, the town is not exactly known as one of the most beautiful or interesting Tuscan villages.

It is, however, incredibly famous, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa itself more than lives up to expectations. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is truly stunning, and far more opulent and beautiful in person than I expected before laying eyes on it for the first time.

If you’d like to see it, we recommend stopping by for half a day on your Tuscan road trip, checking out the tower itself as well as the nearby Duomo and baptistery, and then moving on.

If you’d like to tour the interior of any of the structures, including climbing to the top of the leaning tower, we absolutely recommend booking skip-the-line tickets in advance .

Book your skip-the-line tickets to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa now!

Make your way to San Gimignano.

Known for its stunning towers (14 of an original 72 remain), long history of wealth due to its prime location along a Roman trading route, gorgeous city center, beautiful views, and convenient location that is roughly equidistant from Siena and Florence, it’s safe to say that San Gimignano is both incredibly popular and well worth visiting.

We adore this beautiful hilltop town, and highly recommend spending at least one night either in town or nearby if you can, in order to enjoy the city without the crowds of day-trippers that tend to take over the streets during the day.

Don’t forget to make time in your schedule for a scoop (or several scoops, let’s be real) of gelato from the world-famous Gelateria Dondoli: as one of the best-known and most acclaimed gelato shops in Italy, it’s a safe bet that whatever you order is bound to impress.

Head to Siena.

While today Florence is significantly better-known than Siena, that was not always the case: beautiful Siena was once the military rival of Florence, and the history of the Middle Ages in the region is dotted with stories of their back-and-forth battles.

Today, Siena is known for its Palio di Siena horse race that takes place bi-annually in the oval-shaped Piazza del Campo–when you stand in the middle of the piazza, be sure to picture 20 horses running at full-speed around a packed crowd–it’s truly impressive.

Siena is packed full of interesting things to do: it’s home to arguably the most beautiful Duomo in Tuscany (don’t forget to check out the Piccolomini Library while you’re in there!), and we absolutely recommend taking the Porta di Cielo, aka Gate to Heaven, tour of the cathedral’s roof if you can–it’s magnificent.

At least once during your trip, climb to the top of one of Siena’s monuments for an epic view–the Torre del Mangia in Piazza del Campo is a popular choice, but personally, we love that the view from the top of the Opera della Metropolitana includes stunning views of the Piazza del Campo from a bit of a distance.

Spend some time in Val d’Orcia and soak up the Tuscan countryside.

Of all the scenic places in Tuscany, Val d’Orcia might just be the most beautiful of them all.

This UNESCO-recognized valley is home to the Tuscan road trip views of your fantasies, and it truly has to be seen to be believed.

If you have the time in your Tuscany itinerary, we recommend booking at least a couple of nights in a nearby country villa or agriturismo in order to slowly savor the beauty of the region, but if not, even an afternoon drive here is well worth the trip out.

Marvel at the beauty of Montepulciano.

Tiny, gorgeous, and home to arguably some of the best countryside views of all the villages in Tuscany, it’s impossible not to be charmed by stunning Montepulciano–and that’s even before you start sipping its world-famous wine.

While it doesn’t take terribly long to explore a village this size on your Tuscany road trip, Montepulciano has one of those peaceful atmospheres that you just want to savor.

While you’re there, be sure to stop by the beautiful Piazza Grande, admire views of the nearby Church of San Biagio that is located just outside of town, and to taste the local wine, vino nobile di Montepulciano .

Pay a visit to Arezzo.

As you turn back north toward Florence to start to wind down your Tuscany road trip, be sure to check out the beautiful city of Arezzo.

Often overlooked on Tuscany road trips, Arezzo is a delightful city that is well worth the time it takes to visit.

Home to Roman ruins (including the remains of Arezzo’s very own Colosseum), sweeping views of the countryside from the Medici fortress, some impressively well-preserved fifteenth-century frescoes, and a large number of antique shops just waiting to be perused, Arezzo is an excellent addition to any Tuscany itinerary.

Be sure not to miss a chance to climb the clock tower at Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici right off the main square (Piazza Grande)–the views from the top are absolutely sublime, and it is our personal favorite spot in Arezzo.

Drive back to Florence & say goodbye to Tuscany.

As your Tuscany road trip winds to a close, head back to Florence to drop off your car, say goodbye, and–depending on time–perhaps visit one or two more sights in the Cradle of the Renaissance as well.

While we’ve set up this Tuscany itinerary to act as a loop, if you’re going to be flying out of Italy (or continuing your Italy travels outside of Tuscany) in a different location, you can also consider dropping off your car in Rome, Milan, Bologna, or even Venice–but keep in mind that you will likely incur a one-way drop-off fee for doing so, so be sure to budget for that if needed!

While this Tuscany road trip itinerary gives a solid outline of the region and is a delightful trip all on its own, for those with a bit of extra time in the area (or those who like to move at a very fast pace), there is an unlimited number of additional destinations you could add to your trip, both in Tuscany and in its surrounding regions of Umbria, Emilia-Romagna, and Liguria.

We’ve outlined a few of each here to give you some ideas as you plan your trip to Tuscany!

Within Tuscany

The most famous of all of Tuscany’s hot springs has emerged from comparative obscurity into being a full-blown famous photography location in recent years, but there’s no doubt that it’s still a dream to visit–if you have time during your Tuscany road trip to make the trek out there and you’re a fan of hot springs, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Dating back to the Etruscan period and nestled on a hill high above the sweeping Tuscan landscapes it overlooks, the walled city of Volterra is absolutely worth visiting as part of your Tuscan road trip itinerary.

The ease of accessing it paired with its beauty make this one of the first towns we would recommend if you are looking for additional stops along your road trip in Tuscany.

Cortona is perhaps best known for the famous book/movie that is based there, but even without the fame brought by Under the Tuscan Sun , this tiny Tuscan town is still a fabulous place to visit!

I’ll be honest: a trip to Elba is a bit of a stretch for all but the longest trips to Tuscany, but it bears mentioning simply for the fact that Elba is Tuscany’s very own island–and “Mediterranean island” is just not what you normally associate with a trip to Tuscany.

Whether you want to scuba dive, enjoy delicious seafood, lounge on the beach, or chase down the island’s interesting history (Elba was the first place Napoleon was exiled to, though he escaped a little under a year later), there’s no doubt that Elba makes a unique addition to any Tuscany itinerary.

Easier to access than Elba but equally focused on all things coastal, the seaside city of Livorno is the perfect Tuscany road trip destination for anyone looking to enjoy a little sea and sun as part of their trip to Tuscany.

Best known for its delicious Brunello di Montalcino wine, the hilltop town of Montalcino is a delightful slice of Tuscany that is easy to access from Siena and Val d’Orcia.

Outside of Tuscany

Cinque terre.

Of all destinations outside of Tuscany that people tend to be eager to add onto their Tuscany trip, Cinque Terre almost always falls near the top.

We’ve visited this sensational collection of Ligurian fishing villages twice as part of a Tuscany road trip, as well as on a standalone visit, and we can attest that they are well worth the trouble if you have time in your itinerary.

We absolutely do not recommend driving into the villages, however–instead, drive to the train station at La Spezia or Levanto, park your car, and then take the train into the villages from there.

Known, above all else, for its food, Bologna is the perfect location for foodies to flock to if they’re looking for some truly epic cuisine during their road trip.

Bologna is the capital of Emilia-Romagna, the region that is home to so many of the things us foreigners tend to associate with Italian food: tagliatelle al ragu (aka spaghetti bolognese), mortadella (aka bologna), parmigiano-reggiano , traditional balsamic vinegar, and more.

Once you get done eating, Bologna has plenty of other sights to explore, as well–but the food alone is worth visiting for.

Set on a hilltop overlooking sweeping views of the Umbrian countryside, Orvieto is as historical as it is picturesque: dating back to the Etruscans and once (briefly) the home of the pope, whether you’re looking to dive deep into the history, enjoy the tasty Orvieto Classico wine, or simply admire the magnificent vistas, Orvieto has something to offer.

We adore this little village–be sure to check out the Duomo, the views from the Torre del Moro, and the underground while you’re there, among plenty of other fun things to do.

As the location of the birth, work, and death of St. Francis, Assisi is an enormously popular pilgrim destination among Catholic travelers–but even if you’re not Catholic, this small Umbrian town has plenty of history and beauty to offer.

St. Francis was the founder of the Franciscan Order–a name you’ll see pop up a lot in Italy–and is also one of the patron saints of the country.

In Assisi, you can tour the enormously impressive Basilica of St. Francis while learning about the life and history of the saint.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

Ultimately, Tuscany is a beautiful destination year-round, and you can never go wrong with a visit.

Spring in Tuscany brings beautiful flowers but plenty of rain, summer brings lots of tourists but also long days and sunshine.

Fall brings the harvest and temperamental weather, and winter brings cold, gray weather but also low prices and a distinct lack of crowds.

If you ask us, though, our favorite time to take a Tuscany road trip will always be in the fall, particularly late September through mid-October.

True, it’s hardly offseason (in other words, there will be plenty of other tourists around), and there’s a good chance of experiencing a cold and/or rainy day or two–but the changing colors across the countryside, the incredible food that is freshly harvested, and the crisp chill that sweeps through the air each evening as the heat dies down for the year give the region a magical quality that we will never tire of experiencing.

We’ve spent at least part of the last few autumns in Tuscany, and we see no reason to stop that tradition anytime soon.

While driving in Tuscany is not the most difficult driving you’ll encounter in Italy (looking at you, Rome and Sicily), it definitely has its quirks!

Here are a few tips we recommend keeping in mind as you plan your Tuscany road trip itinerary.

Make sure you have access to a GPS for your Tuscany road trip.

This is absolutely imperative, in our opinion, and can make the difference between an insanely stressful Tuscany road trip and a fairly laid-back one: whether you purchase an international cell phone plan through your carrier before leaving for Tuscany or you purchase an Italian SIM card on the ground, you’ll 100% want to make sure you have cell phone data–and therefore GPS–with you as you drive.

Shop around for your rental car.

I’m almost 100% certain that we’ve used a different rental car company every time we’ve rented a car in Italy–that’s how much the prices can vary depending on your time of travel, pickup and dropoff locations, size of the vehicle, and more.

We recommend searching for your car via Discover Car Hire , which will allow you to check out the rates of several different rental car agencies in Tuscany at once and compare prices and inclusions side-by-side.

Shop for your Tuscnay rental car with Discover Car Hire today!

Buy the insurance–you won’t regret it.

Ultimately, this is up to you–I know some people prefer not to buy additional CDW insurance (aka the insurance that covers damages to the actual car you’re driving, as opposed to your liability to anyone else) on trips–but we buy it every. single. time. in Tuscany and have no regrets.

I don’t want to overstate things, because driving in Tuscany isn’t exactly like driving in the Wild West–but let’s just say that the roads are often tiny, the buildings very close, the parking lots cramped, and the other tourists’ rental cars parked nearby are frequently scratched and dinged in a way that while not horrendously damaging, is definitely something a car rental company would love to charge you for if it happened on your watch.

The peace of mind is absolutely worth it to us–you can price it for yourself when shopping on Discover Car Hire , or purchase a travel insurance policy through that includes car rental insurance (but be sure to double-check the policy, because only some policies cover it).

You need an international driving permit to rent a car in Tuscany.

Technically, you always need an international driving permit to rent a car in Italy, and that includes in Tuscany.

You can pick this up before you leave home from AAA, and it’s very easy and cheap to do–just a bit annoying, as it’s one more thing to add to your to-do list before leaving for your Tuscany road trip.

Now, that being said–will your rental agency always ask for it? No. Will the police always ask for it? No.

Is it worth the risk of being refused a rental car or getting a ticket over $25 USD and a bit of hassle? Not in my opinion.

Rent the smallest car possible.

Not only is it cheaper, which is always excellent, but a smaller car in Tuscany is also much easier to drive.

While the highways in Tuscany are pretty standard, this-could-be-anywhere highways, the small country roads, parking lots near villages, and dirt roads leading to vineyards and villas can be incredibly narrow–which, naturally, does not stop them from being used for two-way traffic (you’ll probably end up pulling over to let someone maneuver past you at least a couple of times during your Tuscany road trip).

Be sure to account for how much space you’ll need for luggage, especially if you have three or more people in your group, but other than that–the smaller, the better.

If you get a ticket, you probably won’t know it right away.

Traffic citations in Tuscany are generally captured via camera, so if you get one, you probably won’t know it right away.

Instead, your license plate will be captured, the ticket will be sent to the owner of the car (ie, your rental company), and then your rental company will forward it onto you.

Unfortunately, that means you won’t be 100% sure you didn’t have any infractions during your Tuscany road trip until several weeks after you get home.

You will encounter toll roads in Tuscany–so carry cash.

Most toll roads in Tuscany will accept credit cards, but it’s always best to have small bills/coins of cash on you–just in case you run into a cash-only booth (or you need a last-minute coffee and/or gelato, which are also very important parts of any Tuscany road trip itinerary).

Be prepared to park and then climb up to towns.

Tuscany is known for its delightful hilltop towns, full of winding, narrow streets and plenty of foot traffic.

Combine the above description of Tuscany that we all know and love with the very concept of a Tuscany road trip, and an obvious question emerges: where are the cars?

Usually, they’re in parking garages built literally under the hilltop towns or on the outskirts of historical centers… which means you often have to walk up steep hills in order to reach the center.

Some cities, like Siena, have escalators installed to help alleviate this problem–but in general, be prepared for a little bit of a leg workout when visiting small towns in Tuscany!

Avoid ZTL zones like the plague.

Essentially, ZTL zones are restricted access zones that dot most of Italy’s historic city centers, including in Tuscany.

If you drive into one, even accidentally, you’re risking a big ticket (and we’ve definitely had to call tiny Tuscan police stations to help some of our family members pay them off months after the fact).

Avoid them by parking on the outskirts of historical centers and by doing your research ahead of time, which leads me to…

Whenever possible, figure out where you’re going to park next before leaving.

This is one of our favorite tricks to keeping stress levels down when driving into a new town in Tuscany: know where the public parking lots are and, when heading out for the day, put your directions on for that particular spot rather than just the town.

This will absolutely cut down on the risk of accidentally driving into a ZTL zone (and therefore getting a ticket), and also make the trip into town much less stressful.

Now, in the interest of full disclosure, this doesn’t always work–occasionally the parking lot you have picked out will be full, or you’ll luck out and find street parking along the way–but in general, it will definitely make your life easier during your Tuscany road trip.

Travel Insurance  — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and this is definitely a case of better safe than sorry. We use and recommend  Safety Wing for trips to Tuscany.

International Driving Permit — If you’re coming from outside the EU and plan to rent a car in Tuscany, you’ll need to make sure to acquire an International Driving Permit in your home country, before  coming to Italy.

It is required for all car rentals in Italy, and while the rental company may not ask, it’s not worth the risk of being refused a car once you arrive or getting a fine if you’re pulled over to be without one. Play it safe and if you plan to drive during your trip, add getting an International Driving Permit to your pre-Tuscany planning!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

67 thoughts on “The Perfect Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary (+ Driving Tips!)”

I love this website It has convinced my husband and me to go on a driving tour of italy! I actually have a question. How do you know or find out where is the ZTL zones so you can avoid them? Thanks! Ilene

So glad to hear that, Ilene! Hope you guys have a great time!

Your GPS can help you avoid the ZTL zones, but the biggest thing is paying very close attention to the signs, as they’ll be marked there. As a general rule, historic centers of cities are ZTL zones, so it’s safest to avoid those entirely and park outside the center before walking into the town!

Hi Kate, Do you have any recommendations for accommodations on the Tuscan itinerary? We would be going in Sept 2022.

Hi Sabrina!

Yes, absolutely. We have several properties linked in this post, but if you’re looking for specific towns/cities, we also have recommendations in each of our independent city guides.

Hello, You guys look like you have a great life! My husband and I are older than you but have retired a bit early so we can travel while we are still able to move about. We have traveled quite a bit independently throughout the years so we are comfortable going to new places. Your blog is great and has so much useful information. Thank you for putting all of your knowledge out there. I know it’s a lot of work to do so. If you don’t mind me asking…we were told you have to have a permanent address at least 6 months out of the year for tax purposes. How do you get around that? Don’t mean to overstep. Thanks!

Thank you so much, Joanne! We really appreciate it. :-) Residency requirements vary by state, but we maintain a technical permanent address in our home state of Oklahoma where we pay our taxes, maintain our businesses, keep our driver’s licenses up to date, etc. Most nomadic travelers have a similar setup for logistical purposes!

Hello, thanks so much for this post. It’s so helpful! My partner and I are going to copy this for our holiday in June this year. I was just wondering if you could tell me which towns you stayed overnight in? Grazie, Olivia

So glad it was helpful, Olivia! Where to spend the night really depends on your specific taste, but from this itinerary, we’ve stayed overnight in Florence, Siena, and Arezzo. We’ve also stayed in countryside villas near the Val d’Orcia and Lucca.

Since you’ll be driving, we 100% recommend staying in the country at least once–Tuscan villas and agriturismos are absolutely amazing. For staying in the towns themselves, make sure your hotels have parking, but other than that, any and all of them make a great place to spend the night.

My daughter and I just booked a rental car for our trip to Tuscany this summer thanks to your post. I was nervous about driving but you laid it all out perfectly, thank you. We’re going for her graduation present and it’ll be the first time in Italy for us both. Bookmarking your site now for when the trip gets closer. Thanks again!

That’s amazing to hear, thank you Susan! Comments like this never fail to make my day, we are ALL about making sure your trip goes perfectly! Hope you guys have a fantastic time, and congratulations to your daughter on her graduation!

Hey, this has been quite useful. Im planning my road trip, but im going clockwise on this route. Since i live in The Netherlands, i will drive in from the north, Florence and start here and after Pisa-Lucca, the last stop instead of heading back to Florence is Cinque Terre, to enjoy a bit of the coast. I will take the advice of leaving the car in La Spezia, but if you had to choose to spend a night in Cinque Terre, which woudl you guys recommend, Vernazza or Manarola?

Glad to hear it, thanks Rodolfo!

Which village is best for spending the night in Cinque Terre is definitely a matter of preference, and Vernazza and Manarola happen to be two of my top 3 favorites (the other is Riomaggiore). You can’t go wrong with either, but I’d recommend Vernazza if you’re looking for something smaller, and Manarola if you want to have access to a wider variety of shops and restaurants. Manarola is a more popular (read: crowded) sunset spot, but both places will quiet down considerably once the day trippers head home.

Wonderful, informative article! I am so glad I found your website. We are hoping to be able to visit Tuscany in summer 2022. Italy is our favourite country, but we haven’t been to Tuscany or Cinque Terre, so I really appreciate the wealth of information on your website!

Thank you so much, Cheryl! So glad to hear that. :-) Hope you guys have an amazing trip to Tuscany and Cinque Terre!

Hi! I just came upon your site when doing a search for info on an upcoming trip. My husband and I are planning a trip for the end of Oct. We will be renting a car in Florence, spending about two days driving through Tuscany and returning the rental in Rome. I know that’s way too short to do Tuscany justice, but we have a commitment in Venice prior to Florence, and are bookended with a fixed return date from Rome. Where in Florence would be our best choice to rent a car so we can get on the road to Tuscany easily? Same question for returning rental in Rome without having to deal with city driving. Lastly, we are doing some basic research in Tuscany in order to maybe get a place there down the road. Should we consider spending our two nights there in Lucca? Thanks so much and I will definitely be following your adventures!

Hi Rohini! There are so many places to rent cars in both cities it’s really impossible to say–I’d keep an eye out for the best deal and then look carefully at the directions. Unfortunately, some city driving is probably unavoidable if you want to make it all the way from Florence to Rome, but you can limit it based on your schedule.

If you’re just going to relax, Lucca is a great choice! If you want to compare possible areas to own a property in Tuscany though, I’d probably recommend one night there and one night in the Val d’Orcia area. You may also want to consider a look at Siena, depending on whether you want to be close to a city or not.

Hi Kate. Thanks for your quick response! This is very helpful info. I had read somewhere that Tiburtina station in Rome is a good spot for rental return since it would not involve going into the city to return. Would you say that is the case? Once again, thank you for your help!

Hi guys, I imagine you’ve had some ups and downs in your travel in the last 2 years because of Covid. I really hope you’ve been able to stay safe and still continue some of your adventures. I found your site and am really keen to follow your path around Tuscany when my husband and I go this year. I looked up your destinations and would really encourage you to look into coming to Australia and New Zealand some time if you can. Down Under is a wonderful place and New Zealand has just about everything you could ever want to see in a really small country! Thank you for your really helpful and informative site. Take care.

Yes, there have been many ups and downs over the last couple of years for sure, but luckily things are mostly up right now! We’ve decided to base ourselves in Portugal for the next little bit to enjoy lots of Europe throughout 2022. :-) Knock on wood, but hopefully our next Tuscan road trip is just around the corner!

We’d love to head down to Aus and New Zealand one day! No plans at the moment, but you never know. :-)

Hope you guys have a wonderful trip!

Such a great and helpful Itinerary, thank you!

We’re planning to visit late September and I am nervous about the driving portion – what location would you recommend for pick up, outside of Florence? We’re hoping to get a drive to our first destination (open to anywhere) and then pick up a car – appreciate any extra tips you might have! I was surprised to not see any mention of Greve as a stop, have you been? This was what I thought was my main stop in Tuscany but I am now rethinking everything! :D We have 5 nights in Tuscany (counted Florence separately as a stop when we head North) and prefer to not spend too much time in the city and want to visit many wineries and enjoy the local food! If you have any very specific favorite wineries to stay at or places to dine, I would love to hear about them!

Thanks again for such a detailed post! I have a lot to consider :)

Thanks so much, Cait!

There’s never enough time for all the towns, lol, but if you want to swap in Greve you absolutely can! We haven’t been ourselves yet but generally speaking there’s no such thing as a “wrong” Tuscan town to visit. ;-)

If you want to pick up a car outside of Florence, I’d recommend taking a look at Siena. By the time you get into the very small hilltop towns like San Gimignano, etc, there may not be car rental agencies available (or if they are, it’ll just be an office and they’ll need to drive the car itself to you from a bigger city–which often comes with a fee).

Have an amazing trip!

Hi, I am planning a vacation trip to Rome (5 days) and from there a road trip (5 days) to the Tuscan area. I’ve been already to Florence and Pisa. I will like to know cities or towns with good food and scenery off the beaten path. Thanks so much for your time and sharing your knowledge.

It depends on how you define off the beaten path, but just about everywhere in Tuscany is further off the path than Florence and Pisa! And virtually everywhere in Tuscany has great food. :-)

Arezzo, Volterra, Pienza, Montepulciano are all delightful, some more commonly visited than others. Montalcino is tiny but beautiful.

We also love Lucca, it’s much quieter in many ways than Florence or Siena.

A common theme is that if you spend the night in any of these places, they will get much more peaceful and quiet if you spend the night, as the day-trippers will head home.

Some of the spa towns other than Saturnia can feel off the beaten path, such as Bagno Vignoni. They’re popular, but more catered to tourists from nearby.

Wonderful article – thanks!

Planning Sept trip – 4 days Rome, 2 days Florence, 3 days Venice (as of now)

Considering adding a Tuscany component but limited to time. Any suggestions to condensing to 2-3 days as a loop or feasibility of starting in Florence and ending in Venice?

Any input greatly appreciated.

Happy to help, Richard!

With a 2-3 day driving loop from Florence, I’d recommend driving to either the Val d’Orcia (so towns like Montalcino and Pienza) or a nearby base like Montepulciano, and then basing yourself there for a couple of days. You can drive between a handful of close-together towns, see the landscape, enjoy an agriturismo, do some wine tastings, etc, all within a close distance.

Driving from Florence to Venice isn’t a go-to suggestion of mine since you don’t need a car in either city, but we’ve actually made the drive ourselves as part of a family trip and it was lovely! Bologna, Ferrara, and/or Padua are easy stops right along the route.

If you wanted to take a couple of days between the two cities, a loop through Parma, Modena, Reggio-Emilio and Bologna would put you in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, which is the origin of some of the most beloved Italian foods (traditional balsamic, parmigiano-reggiano, etc).

It’s not the most efficient way to get from Florence to Venice of course (that’d be the high-speed train), but if you want to make a trip of it, you’ll have fun!

If you do want to consider renting a car in Florence and dropping it off in Venice, though, be sure to ask your rental company if they allow it and what fees they would charge before making any plans.

One of my stops is in Luca and the hotel and parking garage are in the Atlantic. How do I get a permit to drive through it.

I think you may have a typo in there, but I’m assuming you mean you have a hotel booked in the historic center of Lucca? If the hotel offers private parking on-site, you can give them your license plate number and they’ll be able to make arrangements for you.

If they don’t have parking, you’ll likely need to park outside the walls and walk into the center to reach your hotel.

Hope that helps!

The parking os not on-site but within the walls.

So you are saying that all I need to do is call either the garage or hotel with my rental car license number and they would be able to get me a permit to drive inside the walled city to get to the hotel and garage?

In your case, I’d contact the hotel and ask where they recommend you park, and then if you head to the garage inside the walls, look at the map to confirm the directions to access it.

Essentially, your goal is to avoid the ZTL zones, which trigger an automatic ticket (and technically two–one for entering the zone and one for leaving it). Unfortunately, since all of the traffic controls are done by camera, you’ll have no sure way of knowing at the time you park if you’ve crossed the boundary.

The public parking within the walls should have a way to access it without passing through a ZTL zone, the concern is taking a wrong turn, etc. If you do need to pass through a ZTL zone (generally speaking in Italy), hotels within the walls can get access for their guests but I’m not sure if yours can since they don’t have on-site parking. These rules also vary from city to city in Italy.

Generally speaking, in the case that you do get access to a ZTL zone to access hotel parking (I know yours doesn’t have it, but just generally), you won’t get a paper permit or anything like that. It’s all done by license plate and camera.

Hi Kate! What an insightful article. I am planning a trip to Itlay in August for 12 days with a girlfriend who has never been to Italy. We are landing in Rome, spending 3 days there, and making our way to Florence by train. We will have 6 days in the Tuscany region and plan to rent a car after reading your article. This is what I am planning for our road trip and what your feedback. Would love to know if you can recommend an amazing winery with meals and wine tasting at one of our stops. I have taken suggestions from your blog on places to see and things to do at each stop:) Am I packing in too much? Day 1 – Florence to Lucca to San Gimignano spend the night here Day 2 – San Gimignano to Siena to Val D’Orcia spend 1 or 2 nights here Day 3 or 4 – Val d’orcia to Montepulciano to Montalcino (not sure about Montalcino) Day 4 – Drive to Saturnia from the last destination and head back to Florence

Hi Gira! All of the places you have mentioned are wonderful, but yes, I’d highly recommend cutting a few places from your list in order to savor the others more!

Driving, parking, walking into historic centers, etc, all eat up quite a bit of time.

I’m assuming you’re planning a couple of days in Florence on days 5-6. Ideally, I’d recommend only changing your “base” one other time. Montepulciano is a convenient spot as you can reach the Val d’Orcia, Montalcino, etc, from there. Siena is another fantastic option, but it’s definitely a small city, not a tiny town.

Saturnia is pretty far out of the way from everything else on your list, so unless it’s your dream destination in Florence, I’d consider trimming that. :-)

Hi, Your article is very informative. Thanks. One question, I understand that leaving anything in the car in Italy is not a good idea as it can be stolen. What about these small towns in Tuscany? Is it risky to leave luggage in the trunk when parking there, too? Thanks

That’s essentially down to your personal risk tolerance. Many people leave luggage in the car when they have no other good option if it is kept out of sight in a locked trunk.

Obviously, there’s always a small risk with that, but it’s a fairly common practice.

The most important thing is to make sure nothing visible is left behind.

Thank you for such a insightful article, it has definitely helped to make a road trip through Tuscany feel less daunting!

Are there are places on your list that are more or less English friendly? We will obviously try to learn what we can in Italian, but it is always helpful to know :)

My husband and I previously visited Florence and did a day trip to Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano. The scenery was so breathtaking it quickly made a road trip through Tuscany a MUST on our bucket list! Having already visited those places (wouldn’t mind visiting San Gimignano again!), what would be your top picks for 5-6 nights (not including Florence but starting from there)? I would love to make a stop at Saturnia if time allowed. Thank you SO much for your suggestions!

Hi Samantha,

Thank you so much! Glad we can help. :-)

Unless you go exceptionally off the beaten path, you won’t have any problem using English (plus body language/hand signs/etc) in Tuscany, so don’t worry! Definitely learn what Italian you can, but Tuscans are very friendly and exceptionally used to foreigners.

Since you guys have already done quite a bit in the northern part of Tuscany, I recommend heading to the southern part! Montepulciano, the Val d’Orcia (including towns like Pienza and Montalcino), Cortona, and Saturnia, make a great loop.

You might also look at taking a day trip to Civita di Bagnoregio, Orvieto, Perugia, or Assisi. Those places aren’t in Tuscany but are wonderful, and depending on your itinerary might make fun additions.

This is so helpful Kate, THANK YOU!!!! This will be my first time in Italy, I’m traveling solo, and I’ve never driven outside of the U.S. before, so I’m thinking I’ll stick to trains to get around this time (which I know will limit how much flexibility I have). Are any of these towns easily accessible by train from Florence (and/or each other)?

Happy to help, Tara!

Yes, Lucca, Pisa, Arezzo, and Siena are all easy to get to by train.

The smaller hilltop towns are generally harder to access without a car, and many don’t have train stations. You can technically get to Montepulciano by train, but the station is outside of town and you’ll need to catch a bus or taxi to get all the way there.

If you want to visit a few of the tiny hilltop towns, I’d recommend signing up for a day trip one day–we link a some popular ones in this post: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/best-day-trips-from-florence-italy/

Generally from Florence, you can find either day trips that focus on the north (San Gimignano is a common stop) or the southern Val d’Orcia towns. They’re a great way to see harder-to-access spots while letting someone else deal with the driving and parking!

Thanks so much for responding and for the additional tips! <3

Hi Kate! Thank you, thank you, thank you for the wealth of information. Very helpful for our upcoming visit!

Any possibility of emailing you directly with a few more questions?

Thanks, Lori and Steve, USA, coming in October for our 60th birthday’s!!!!

Yes, of course!

We’re not travel agents and don’t plan/book trips for people, but we’re always happy to answer a few questions and point travelers in the right direction. :-)

Happy early birthdays!

Hello again, We will only have about 4 (3 full) days and nights to explore Florence and Tuscany. We hear that Florence is not terribly large and is very walkable? Would it be practical and safe to utilize motor scooters to do so? The countryside is a PRIORITY, but we are considering not venturing too far from the city to limit travel time. We’d like to spend at least one night in the city, and at least one in the country. And we very much want to explore a couple of very small villages. Suggestions?

Would you recommend purchasing train tickets in advance, or is it really not necessary? Likewise for renting a car, and making hotel reservations (First week of October).

For the train tickets–it depends. For high-speed trains across long distances, like from Florence to Venice, yes, absolutely book in advance. The prices increase dramatically as you get closer to your dates.

For regional/slow trains, like taking a day trip from Florence to Lucca, there’s no need to book in advance.

What gets a bit confusing is that some lines, like between Rome and Florence, have both high-speed trains (essential if you’re making a day trip, as it takes under 2 hours), and regional/slow trains, which depending on the exact timetable can take anywhere from 3-5 hours or so.

If you want an overview of what’s available, we recommend using Omio to search for tickets and compare prices/timetables.

For hotels and a rental car, yes, you’ll want to book in advance. It’s not as urgent as in, say, July, but to get maximum availability it’s best to be prepared, especially if you have special requirements for your rental car such as wanting to rent an automatic.

I hope that helps and that you guys have a great time! October is our favorite month to be in Tuscany. :-)

My daughter & I will have 5 days in Tuscany, have a rental car & want to visit mostly hill towns. Our hotel is outside Florence. We’d like to drive to Cortona then to for wine tasting, then to Monticchiello for a 7:30 dinner at Daria & spend night. Is this possible? Where do I find city maps?

I think you mean you plan to spend the night in Monticchiello? If so, yes, that will probably work well. Cortona is a bit out of the way as far as Tuscan hill towns go, but it’s very popular!

For city maps, your hotel will usually offer one, especially if you ask. For towns that you just take a day trip to, the easiest way to find them is to head to the tourism office (there’s virtually always a well-marked office in the town center).

Some tourism offices do charge a nominal fee for maps, so it’s a good idea to have a few Euros in small coins/bills on you when you go.

Totally loved it!!! Would you recommend doing this roadtrip with a child? I really want my 5year old daughter to witness new cultures and enjoy some holidays with mum and dad!

Of course it depends on the child, etc, but it’s definitely possible! Italy is considered to be very kid-friendly, and kids are adored and welcome just about everywhere.

The distances in this road trip are also fairly short, so no extremely long car days to contend with.

I don’t see your 2 night Tuscany itinerary?

Hi Lorraine,

I’m not sure what you mean–maybe you’re looking for our 2 day Florence itinerary? Here it is: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/2-days-in-florence-itinerary/

I don’t have anything on spending 3 days/2 nights in Tuscany specifically, but for most visitors, I’d recommend spending 2 days in Florence and then taking a day trip to the countryside on the 3rd day.

Hope that answers your question!

Thank you very much for your article, it was very helpful to consider the cities/town to visit in La Toscana. What would you recommend me for a 10-day trip (honeymoon :) ) by arriving to Rome? For sure, I want to rent a car and do all by car. Would it be better to take a train all over to Florence and from there do the trip all over to Rome? Is it a big deal if I do not have an international license? Thank you for your help.

You can definitely structure this trip as a road trip from Rome to Florence, touring Tuscany by road trip along the way instead if you prefer. For that version, you’ll likely want to start at Montepulciano and then make sort of a “V” shape ending in Florence. Keep in mind that you’ll probably have a one-way car rental fee if you do it this way.

In that case, you may want to add on a stop in Orvieto along the way as well–it’s in Umbria, and a beautiful place: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/things-to-do-in-orvieto-italy/

Having an international driving permit is required for non-EU drivers in Italy. It’s not often asked for, so you can choose to take the risk, but your rental company can refuse to rent to you and of course, you can have issues if you get into an accident, etc, if you don’t have one as well. They’re not complicated to get, so it’s much better to acquire one before going to Italy!

Hi! Thank you so much for this wonderful site – it is so informative!! We are planning 2-3 days traveling from Florence to Rome and wonder if there are private drivers for hire in Tuscany. Is that an option? And, if so, do you have a sense of how we would locate good drivers? Our concept is that it may be easier on us if we just left the driving to a trained professional local… your thoughts? Thanks again! Paul

We’ve never hired a private driver in Tuscany, so I can’t speak to that personally! I know that some private drivers and tours advertise through Get Your Guide. Other than that, I’d recommend asking your hotel concierge, they’ll no doubt know of someone.

However, if your goal is to travel between Rome and Florence, you could also easily take the train. If you’d rather take 2-3 days to do the journey and sightsee along the way, Orvieto and Siena are both stops to consider on the way.

If you’re confident drivers, though, that route is fairly simple–lots of highway driving, etc. If you’re considering the option of driving yourselves, I’d say there’s no real reason not to.

Hi Thank you for putting together all this info, it has filled me with excitement thinking about our trip this year. My husband and I are hoping to fulfil my dream of travelling to Tuscany this year at the start of April. We will be driving from the UK and stopping off in Normandy then driving across to Italy and Tuscany. The first large city we will enter is Turin before moving towards Tuscany. We have 7 days in Italy but we thought a circular road trip would be great made up of countryside, wine, food and wandering around towns and markets. I love the road trip based around Florence but given our route and our starting point, would you be able to recommend anywhere we should visit/stay/avoid that starts further north and drops into Tuscany. I don’t want to disappoint myself by making poor choices in destinations so any help would be much appreciated. Thank you

Sounds like a wonderful trip! We’ve driven from Portugal to Italy and/or France (and back) several times ourselves, so we’re very familiar with the breadth of the drive you’re taking on.

The Langhe region of Piedmont, located close-ish to Turin, is fantastic: think small towns, gorgeous views, delicious wine, and fewer crowds than Tuscany. You may want to consider a stop there before heading further south! We loved La Morra in particular, but there is lots to see around there, including Alba, Barolo, etc.

Depending on what route you take in, you may pass through Emilia-Romagna as well, one of our favorite foodie regions in Italy. There are a million places to fall in love with there, but Parma might be right along your drive: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/best-things-to-do-in-parma-italy/

Hope you guys have a fantastic trip!

Hi, I loved your article. My husband and I are planning to head to Tuscany in September. My thought is to arrive in Florence from the states and stay for 3 nights. Originally I was planning to head to Greve and stay at Borgo de Cabrea. for 5 nights and just do day trips from there. (The pictures of the hotel views blew me away). However after doing some more research, I’m thinking that I would leave Florence and head down to the Val d’ Orcia region for two nights, do some day trips from there, then head back up to the hotel in Greve for my remaining 3 nights. I don’t want to short change my experience in southern Tuscany. Looking for advice on where to stop on the way down, and the way up versus day trips from where we are staying. I’m thinking of stopping in Sienna on our way back up since it’s closer to Greve then we can avoid a day trip back down. Where do you think is good place to stop on the way down vs. places that would be better as day trips? Also any advise on where to stay in Val d’ Orcia region? Thanks for the advise on the cars. The site you suggested is much cheaper than the one I was originally looking at.

Those hotel views do look incredible!

With the caveat that you can’t make a very wrong decision in Tuscany, I’d recommend spending 3 nights in the Val d’Orcia area and 2 around Greve. Definitely check out the tiny town of Montefioralle when you’re in the Greve area, too: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/montefioralle-italy/

Siena is a decent-sized city rather than a hilltop town, so I’d spend more time there than you can–but if a couple of hours is all you can spare, visiting the Piazza del Campo + the Duomo + visiting one of the viewpoints to see the city from above will make for a memorable stop.

As for where to stay in the Val d’Orcia, we’re partial to Montepulciano as a base. It’s not in the Val d’Orcia, but nearby, well-connected, and beautiful. Pienza also makes an excellent base and has some hotels whose views I think you’ll also love: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/pienza-italy/

Depending on which route you take down from Florence, you may pass Monteriggioni, if so, that’d be a lovely stop during your drive.

Thank You so much for your response. After doing some of my own research and keeping your advise in mind, we booked a hotel in Montepulciano. I have another question for you. We are renting a car and tried discover cars. The prices for renting a compact car through Noleggiare are significantly cheaper than any other company. We need an automatic so it can get pricey. The reviews are mediocre and I was wondering if you had any experience with them. Thanks!

I don’t think we’ve ever used them in particular, but in general, we’ve never had any issues with a car rental in Italy and have zero brand loyalty with rental cars there. We tend to go with whoever is most affordable, as the prices can vary so much. We do buy rental insurance, though–for us, it’s worth the peace of mind.

Hi Planning on driving from Rome to Florence, taking our time. Where would you rent the car? And can you drop off a car in Florence if you rent in Rome. Thanks

Hi Sebastiano,

Personally, we’d rent the car in Rome wherever we could find the best deal–we’re not particularly loyal to any one car rental company.

You can definitely rent a car in Rome and drop it off in Florence, however, you’ll likely incur a one-way rental fee. These can vary dramatically, but are usually pretty reasonable if you’re picking up and dropping off the car in the same country (driving from Italy to Switzerland, for example, would be a different story).

Hi! I liked your insights very much, I hope to go visit Tuscany soon with my family. Though you didn’t really mention seaside areas – I guess it’s because people don’t tend to visit Tuscany region because of beaches, but still, there IS some seaside (judging from map sorry), and I would like to know more, either if you had any experience, or from locals or friends. I clinged to the one photo of a beach at Livorno. I was wondering, if it is worth seeing the seaside as well, if there are any beaches, maybe areas where swimming is not recommended, dangerous tides, sharks… or are there nice places as well, worth visiting. Is the shore easily accessible? The shoreline area is more flat I guess, less hills there as I assume again, from maps…

You’re right, I didn’t include seaside areas because typically, that’s not what non-Italian travelers are looking for from the Tuscany region. You’re right that it has a lovely coastline, though!

A few popular beach towns in Tuscany include Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi. Livorno is a popular cruise ship stop, and has a historic fort right on the water. Don’t miss the view from Terrazza Mascagni if you go!

If you want to go further off the beaten path, the Tuscan island of Elba (where Napoleon was once banished to) is beautiful.

If you’re in a beach town, you’ll definitely have access to the sea!

Will be in Tuscany for four days and thinking one day each in Pisa, Florence and Montepulciano (or combine a couple (like Pisa/Florence). Can you suggest a good home base area? We will have a car – any suggestions for a couple of one day road trips (if we can combine P, F or M) to visit wineries, different towns, etc? So many things to see it’s hard to decide and are hoping you can help us out. Thank you so much!!!

Hi Collette,

If you plan to have a car, I’d recommend staying outside a city center and enjoying the countryside a bit. That’s the advantage of having a car in Tuscany!

I’d also recommend combining Lucca with Pisa–Pisa doesn’t take long to see, but Florence definitely takes a full day at a minimum assuming you want to go inside a museum, up a viewpoint, etc.

On the route from Florence to Montepulciano, Monteriggioni and Siena are great options (depending on which route you take). The Chianti area is also between the two, though it’s a bit more out of the way to access!

San Gimignano and/or Volterra would also make a great day, and would be enhanced by having a car.

Deciding where to stay can be fairly flexible, as all of those places can be visited as a day-trip from the others, but I’d choose based on your priorities, as you’ll have some long drives round-trip. The Siena area makes a great base if your priority is Montepulciano and towns like the Val d’Orcia. The Lucca area or Chianti area is lovely for accessing northern Tuscany (Florence, Pisa, San Gimignano, etc).

Ciao! Thank you so much for writing so much about Italy! It’s been very helpful while planning our upcoming Tuscany road trip. We’re planning to rent a car from Florence and are seeing a lot of negative reviews on all the cheaper Discover Cars rental companies. What rental companies have you used in the past and would you recommend them? Also, are there any we should stay away from? Trying to be budget friendly but also do not want hit with a bunch of fees after the fact. Thank you so much for your help!

Hi Natalie,

Happy to help!

Honestly, I could not even remember all the rental companies we’ve used in Italy, let alone in Europe. We’re not picky–we’ve used everything from big brands like Hertz and Sixt all the way to tiny local outfits that we spot on the ground. We’ve never been charged for damage, but we do take precautions.

Specifically, we ALWAYS thoroughly photograph and video (a full 360 video) the vehicle when picking it up, and we tend to buy the additional insurance as well. If you want to ensure there’s a 0% chance of being charged for anything, most companies offer a $0 deductible (in Europe, a deductible is called excess) policy. It’s an increase in the upfront budget, but offers a lot of peace of mind if it’s something you’re worried about!

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About Love From Tuscany

We love Tuscany , and we want to share that love with everyone. That’s why we’ve started this website.

It’s a complete online travel guide to Tuscany , one of Italy’s most enchanting regions. The idea is to give useful and interesting information to independent travellers planning a holiday in Tuscany, Italy . But it’s also more than that. We like to think that by reading our guide you’ll get inspiration for your trip and discover unexpected destinations and hidden corners of this beautiful region.

Your free online Tuscany travel guide

There’s a lot to Tuscany. The ever-inspiring cities of Florence and Siena , unforgettable landscapes, sculptures by Michelangelo , paintings by Botticelli , and hilltop towns that seem to have jumped off a postcard. There’s inspiring architecture that can take you on a journey from the Gothic to the Renaissance down a single street. And some of the finest food and wine in the world. We try to reflect all this in our guide. We’ve taken all the things that we think are special about Tuscany and divided them into easy to navigate areas of interest.

It’s taken a lot of research. But we like to think of it as a labour of love.

The up-to-date information and useful tips  in this online travel guide to Tuscany will help you to better plan your trip. And get the most from each area. We also try to suggest places that you might not have thought of visiting. Our advice is to mix the most obvious sights, like the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the Uffizi Gallery , with some of the less visited attractions.

Of course, part of the pleasure of travelling to this part of the world is adapting to the slower rhythm of life, connected to the seasons. Tuscan people make time to enjoy life and invite the travellers to do the same.

Why travel to Tuscany, Italy?

Part of the beauty of a trip to this region is discovering some authentic and less well-known destinations along with the world-famous attractions . Tuscany has got 7 UNESCO sites , amongst them the delightful towns of Pienza and San Gimignano , some of the finest red wines in the world, like the famous Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. And a dreamlike countryside that has featured in countless films and photographs.

There are world-class museums like the Uffizi and the Accademia Gallery where you can admire the statue of David . Not to mention architectural wonders like the Cathedrals of Florence and Siena, and the Square of Miracles in Pisa. It also has plenty of small hilltop towns , ancient churches, and countless hidden corners for you to explore.

If you love Tuscany as much as we do, we hope you’ll find this guide informative and inspirational.

Love from Tuscany.

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Top 10 trips to Italy

When you start planning a trip to Italy, you may imagine yourself wandering the cobblestoned streets of Florence, deciphering the ancient ruins of Rome, or drifting along the canals of Venice. But, as our specialists will share with you, there are a myriad of additional experiences on offer in Italy that can fully immerse you into this sensorially enriching country.

Your Italy trip may include kayaking along the Amalfi coast, being guests on a private boat around Sardinia’s La Maddalena islands, staying in one of Matera’s cave hotels, or accompanying a volcanologist across the volatile landscape of Mount Etna.

Whatever your passions, our specialists can help you plan your own bespoke adventure. Below are some suggested Italy tour ideas to help inspire your own trip to Italy .

Pick your trip

• Venice, Florence & Rome
• Northern Italy & the Lakes
• Tuscany & Umbria
• Puglia & Matera
• Southern Italy & Amalfi Coast
• Italy’s great outdoors
• Lakes & mountains of Italy
• Naples & the island of Ischia

1. Italy’s art cities: Venice, Florence & Rome

Italy embodies and inspires artistic mastery. Under the bluest of skies, you’ll see swifts swooping around the domes, bell towers, and ramparts of soaring architectural marvels, while masterpieces adorn the walls, ceilings, doors, and loggias of every palazzo. Venice, Florence and Rome are the ultimate triumvirate of Italy’s art cities and you can easily combine exploring all three cities in a two-week trip to Italy.

Where the trip could take you:

You can fly into Venice and out of Rome or vice versa, with Florence a two-hour midway point from each. You’ll use the train network to jump between the three, and private Venetian water taxis or personal drivers will transport you between each station and hotel.

Experiences you can have:

On an art-focused trip, expert guides will introduce you to some of the world's most important monuments and works of art, while giving you contextual background to the cities as you walk through them. From Roman to medieval, Renaissance to Baroque, you’ll be given a tour of Italy that allows you to track the country’s trailblazing role in the history of art.

Your guides will know the best time to explore the treasures of each city with you. From early mornings at the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel or discovering the artwork of Florence, to private evening introductions to Rome’s highlights such as the Trevi Fountain and Piazza del Popollo.

Crucially, you’ll get whizzed around queues and into exclusive behind-the-scenes areas — from hidden chambers in the Venetian Doge’s Palace to queue-jumping entry to the Colosseum in Rome.

2. Cultural trip to Northern Italy & the Lakes

The north of Italy is a land of serene lakes, mist-topped mountains, ornate palaces, waterside towns, and the capital of couture, Milan . On this trip, you’ll explore its highlights, including viewing Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper , following the footsteps of Shakespeare’s love-struck Romeo and Juliet in Verona , and exploring the Borromean Islands of Lake Como by boat.

Flying in and out of Milan, a personal driver will take you between Bergamo, Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, and Verona. At Lake Como, private boats will lead you to the Borromean Islands, Villa Balbianello, and Bellagio. While the towns of Varenna, Tremezzo, and Menaggio are easy to visit using public ferries.

Milan is the cultural hub of this region, and a privately guided walking tour shows you its highlights in detail, including The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, the ornate shopping arcade of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the gleaming Duomo di Milano, and La Scala opera house.

Tranquil and elegant, the gentle waters of the Italian Lakes are surrounded by ornate villas, picturesque waterside towns, and the ever-present backdrop of the Dolomite mountains. You can board a private boat at Lake Como to tour the palaces and gardens of the Borromean Islands.

The Italian lakes have been the backdrop for numerous iconic films and your guide will take you by private boat to visit the lakeside retreat of Villa Balbianello, the setting of the 2006 James Bond film, Casino Royale . After which, you’ll head to the ‘pearl of the lake’, Bellagio, to wander its cobblestoned streets.

3. Tuscany & Umbria’s scenic landscapes

Hills painted golden with cereal crops, row upon row of heavily laden vines, and winding roads lined with Cyprus trees… The landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria are among the most celebrated in the world. You can set the pace with a self-drive tour and dip into immersive guided experiences along the way.

Linking flights into Florence and out of Rome, you can drive out to the hills of Chianti, meandering your way through the Val d’Orcia to Montepulciano. From here you can pass south to Pienza and cross into Umbria, heading for the town of Perugia before a visit to Assisi and Orvieto. Here, you may choose to visit Bagnoregio before heading south to Rome.

You can slow your pace by exploring on foot or by bike in both Tuscany and Umbria. On foot, you can choose to have a private guided hike through the hills of the Val d’Orcia, or walking tours of Florence, Assisi, or Perugia. By bike, you can cycle around the hill towns surrounding Greve in Chianti, or take a gentle e-bike tour to the isolated hilltop community of Bagnoregio.

Wine and cheese are gastronomic highlights of the region, and you can sample both in atmospheric surroundings here. From cycling the vineyards of the Chianti hills, to sipping your way through a wine-tasting session within a 12th-century abbey, you’ll leave with a deep understanding of the Chianti terroir. In the Val d’Orcia, we can arrange for you to visit to a family-owned cheese maker’s farm, with a hands-on demonstration of cheese production followed by a sampling lunch.

4. Highlights of Puglia & Matera

Cone-shaped stone houses, twisted olive groves, towns carved out of tufa, and a coastline of sheltered coves are highlights of this south Italian region. You can visit an olive-oil farm, indulge in some local gastronomic delicacies, and explore some of the region’s unusual stays with an immersive introductory visit.

Between the two airports of Bari and Brindisi, there are a multitude of destination highlights for you to choose between, all easily accessible with a private driver. From the caves and alleyways of Matera to the conical houses of Alberobello , the Baroque town of Lecce or the 13th-century frescoes of Galatina. Additionally, Fasano and Otranto are good bases for coastal adventures.

The Pugliese people are proud of their distinct cuisine, so you can delve into its heritage with tasting tours in Bari and Lecce, as well as on drives along roads lined with olive groves between Castel del Monte and Ostuni.

You could also choose to stay in a hotel built entirely within the Sassi caves of Matera, or in traditional Pugliese trulli buildings, with their archetypal pointed roof tops.

For a visual treat, you can follow a guided cycling tour around the Baroque landmarks of Lecce. Or, opt for a privately guided walking tour to fully appreciate the whitewashed beauty of Ostuni, the 17th-century architecture of Galatina, or the conical roof tops of Alberobello with their decorative and symbolic markings.

5. Southern Italy & the Amalfi Coast

The home of taste-bud enticing street food, narrow alleyways with high-slung, criss-crossing washing lines, and a lively social scene, Naples is the heart of Southern Italy and a vibrant inclusion in a tour of Italy. You may choose to explore the omnipresent Mount Vesuvius, and the towns it buried at Pompeii and Herculaneum, indulge yourself in chic Capri, or unwind beside the dramatic Amalfi Coast .

Naples will form the beginning and end of any trip to this region, via its international airport. Beyond the city, private cars with drivers and accompanying guides can take you between highlights, including Sorrento, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Amalfi, and Positano. For a slice of luxury, take a private boat to the island of Capri.

Steeped in haunting historical remnants, Pompeii and Herculaneum offer an insight into everyday life over two thousand years ago. Walking both sites in the company of a guide will provide you with expert perspectives on the archaeological findings, and bring to life the relics surrounding you.

For a culinary focus on the region, you may choose to explore Naples under the guidance of a local gastronome, who can lead you to some of the best food spots among the maze of narrow alleyways. If you want to learn the culinary tricks for yourself, we can arrange an individual cooking class in a local family home, where you’ll learn the secrets behind typical Southern Italian meals.

6. Sicily heritage tour

From the diversity of its landscapes to the myriad of different influences on its architecture, dialect, and cuisine, Sicily is culturally distinct from the rest of Italy. You can choose to climb the volatile Mount Etna, taste wine cultivated on volcanic soil, stroll around the ancient Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, or indulge in the chocolate capital of Modica.

Sicily has two international airports at Palermo and Catania, so it’s easy to experience the island’s highlights between the two. We can arrange for a private driver to take you from place to place. We like starting in Palermo and heading south to Agrigento, then east to Ragusa and Modica, on to Syracuse and Taormina, before finishing with a trip up Mount Etna.

Peppered with archaeological remains and architectural treasures, you can easily spend an entire trip to Sicily awestruck by relics of the past. We can unlock these sites for you, with a private guide who will accompany you around Palermo, the Roman mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale, the classical Greek temples at Agrigento, and the Teatro Greco — core of the ancient Greek city of Syracuse.

You’ll find any trip on the eastern side of Sicily is dominated by the omnipresent Mount Etna, the most active volcano in Europe. Taking a guided tour up to its multiple craters with a volcanologist gets you as close as is safely possible to its alien landscape of steaming vents, hot stones, and black volcanic dust.

7. Culture & coast in Sardinia

Land of soaring peaks, outlandish rock formations, luxurious yachts, and crystalline waters, Sardinia has been a European playground for generations. But it was also an important Bronze Age settlement and has a traditional farming culture with a reputation for producing delectable cheese. The island is easy to self-drive, and we can arrange an array of experiences that allow you to connect with its people along the way.

Flying into Cagliari, you’ll find yourself right in the heart of this island’s glamorous capital city. The roads are of high quality here, and self-drive tours are the best way to cherry-pick your own highlights. They may include the Bronze Age remains at Su Nuraxi di Barumini or the multihued streets of Oliena, before heading north to the luxurious Costa Smeralda.

Punctuating your self-drive trip with private guided tours gives you the best chance to really understand the sights on this island. You may choose to have a private walking tour of the old town of Cagliari, or be lead through the Su Nuraxi di Barumini archaeological site by an expert in Bronze Age history. For some down-time, you can sit back and relax as a qualified skipper sails you out over the translucent waters that surround the island.

Cheese tasting is a quintessential experience on Sardinia. For a behind-the-scenes look, you could spend time with a flock of sheep and goats in the company of their shepherd. There, you’ll learn the traditional culture behind cheesemaking, giving you a far more profound understanding of each variety’s nuances.

8. Italy’s great outdoors

Not simply a country of architectural marvels, fabulous food, and notable galleries, Italy’s landscapes cry out to be explored. From kayaking the caves of Sorrento to hiking the Path of the Gods on the Amalfi Coast and learning the art of truffle hunting in Tuscany , we can find activities to match all of your interests on an outdoor based Italy trip.

The choice of routes is almost endless. It may be that you want to start in the north of Italy, flying into Milan before heading to Lake Como, where you can use exclusive boats and public ferries to explore. Trains can whisk you down to Tuscany to venture through the Chianti region or onto Naples, where private drivers will take you to Positano and the Amalfi Coast. Kayaks are the perfect way to gently paddle between caves here before heading back to Naples for your international flight.

We can arrange for private guides to accompany you on many different walking tours. From exploring picturesque towns such as Bellagio on the edge of Lake Como, or the hilltop sanctuaries of San Gimignano and Siena in Tuscany, to rural trails that take advantage of the sweeping scenery, like the Path of the Gods, high up above the Amalfi Coast.

If food is your passion, you may choose to spend the morning walking through the woodlands of Tuscany with a local truffle expert and his dog, as they search for these illusive treasures buried in the ground.

For a remote adventure, the secluded beaches and hidden caves of the Bay of Ieranto on the Sorrento Peninsular lie at the heat of the marine protected area of Punta Campanella and we can arrange for you to have a guided kayak tour around these pristine waters.

9. Lakes & mountains of Northern Italy

While many trips to Italy focus on the highlights of the culture-rich towns and cities, those seeking more remote treasures might enjoy heading north into the lake district that borders the alpine hinterland of the Dolomite Mountains . From a walking tour of Verona to hiking up Val di Genova to the Nardis waterfall, or relaxing on the shores of Lake Garda , you can choose a rural respite that meets your interests.

Verona’s international airport is the gateway to a trip exploring the mountains of Northern Italy. From there, we can arrange a private driver to take you up into the Dolomites and transfer you between destinations for your whole trip. Once in the lake district, Lake Garda’s Sirmione, Bardolino, and Garda are all easily accessible by local ferry.

Not just a starting point, Verona is also a destination city in its own right, and you can explore it on a walking tour that takes in the frescoes of Basilica di Santa Anastasia. You may also wish to sample some of the region’s highly regarded amarone wine here, or visit the house inspired by Shakespeare’s Juliet.

With fresh mountain streams, flower-laden meadows, and soaring mountain backdrops, the walking trail at Val di Genova is well known for its numerous waterfalls that cascade into the Sarca River. We can arrange for guides to go with you or recommend the best routes to explore it on your own.

At Lake Garda, you can enjoy a wine tasting tour of a boutique vineyard, a guided visit to Vittoriale degli Italiani, once owned by the poet Gabriele D’Annunzio, or a trip to the historic town of Sirmione.

10. Naples & the island of Ischia

If you have read Elena Ferrante’s trilogy, the Neapolitan Novels , you’ll have a good sense of the island of Ischia , just off the coast of Naples . It has long been a respite destination for Neapolitans and is slowly becoming more popular with inquisitive visitors from further afield. Combining the heady, cultural excitement of Naples with the calm, thermal beauty of Ischia will give you a well-balanced trip in the south of Italy.

Flying in and out of Naples International Airport, you’ll spend some time in the city before taking the ferry to Ischia for some relaxation. You’ll have a private driver for your time in Naples and on the island.

Naples is a hive of energy, best explored on foot, from its narrow alleyways to its bustling piazzas. You can enjoy a private guided walking tour of the city to help find your sense of direction among the labyrinthine streets. We can also arrange a guide to accompany you through the Naples Archaeological Museum, where you can examine original relics from Pompeii.

While on Ischia, you may want to soak in one of the island’s bubbling, curative thermal pools. They’re fed by the volcanic fault line linked to nearby Vesuvius, and we can lead you to the best of its many restorative springs.

The island is also a renowned hiking destination, and we can recommend trails that climb over volcanic rock, across verdant vineyards, and through remote chestnut woodlands to viewpoints high above the shimmering coastline.

Read more about trips to Italy

Italy's art cities: Venice, Florence & Rome

10 days from £4,280pp

Lakes & mountains of Italy

10 days from £4,995pp

Classic Italy tour: Rome, Venice, Florence & Tuscany

13 days from £7,885pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They're just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• Italy’s art cities: Venice, Florence and Rome
• A guide to the regions of Italy
• Food highlights of Italy
• Luxury holidays in Italy
• Best family holidays in Italy

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17 Dreamy Tuscan Recipes With Plenty of Olive Oil and Rosemary

Cook like you're in Tuscany with a few of the region's prized ingredients.

Channel a backdrop of rolling hills and dreamy villas with these meals that celebrate the flavors and specialties of Tuscany. Your Tuscan olive oil, balsamic, and herbs will sing in pasta, meat, and salad dishes from the idyllic region. Start with soup like Ribollita or Pappa al Pomodoro; then make the pici of Siena, the gnocchi of Bolgheri, or of course, eggs Florentine. Prepare Tuscan-style chicken, trout, or steak, and for dessert, bake cake like a nonna. Don't miss the wine pairings in these Tuscan recipes, from Chianti to Vernaccia . Buon appetito!

Gnocchi Asparagi e Pancetta (Tuscan Gnocchi with Asparagus and Pancetta)

Victor Protasio / Food Styling by Margaret Dickey / Prop Styling by Shell Royster

The key to good gnocchi is good potatoes, and in Tuscany, that means ones from the Bolgheri area. In a celebration of the region's trademark simplicity, we use Yukon Gold potatoes, tossed with delicate springtime asparagus and a savory, emulsified, pancetta-flavored pan sauce.

Florentine Butter Chicken

Traditionally, lightly floured, skin-on chicken breasts are gently pan-fried in warm, melted butter and topped with a splash of fresh lemon juice. Inspired by the famous version served at Trattoria Sostanza in Florence, Italy, F&W editor in chief Hunter Lewis' rich and nutty version uses cultured butter and skinless chicken breast.

Tomato, Basil, and Cucumber Panzanella with Grated Tomato Balsamic Vinaigrette

Panzanella is a rustic salad that repurposes stale bread. Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat author Samin Nosrat showcases juicy ripe tomatoes, raw red onion, and crisp cucumbers with oven-roasted sourdough croutons in her version. 

Tuscan Grilled Trout

Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist Lydia Pursell

Baste trout fillets with a simple garlic-and-herb-infused oil combined with wine vinegar before grilling and pouring the sauce over the hot fish dish.

Pici Pasta with Roasted Garlic and Tomatoes

Make the classic thick, hand-rolled spaghetti from Siena with all-purpose flour, water, and olive oil. It's an approachable pasta for beginners.

Balsamic and Rosemary-Marinated Florentine Steak

When she's in Tuscany, chef Nancy Silverton buys thick porterhouses at Antica Macelleria Cecchini, Dario Cecchini's famous butcher shop in the town of Panzano. At Mozza, one of her restaurants in Los Angeles, chef Matt Molina marinates the meat in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and rosemary for this recipe.

Ribollita is a rustic Tuscan soup that combines bread, beans, and greens. With roots in Italian peasant cooking, ribollita means reboiled and refers to adding day-old bread to leftover soup. With humble origins, the soup has become a comforting and delicious classic. 

Tuscan-Style Veal Chops

In Tuscany, olive oil is the fat of choice for finishing aromatic veal chops like these. Grilling expert Steven Raichlen combines it with garlic, rosemary, and sage.

Spinach and Ricotta Gnudi with Tomato-Butter Sauce

Delicate gnudi, which chef Tommy Habetz describes as "ravioli filling without the pasta," originated in Tuscany. This version is made with diced Italian plum tomatoes, spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

To make one of Florence's simplest yet most succulent dishes, use high-quality, thick T-bone steaks and a very hot grill. Italians douse the steak with lemon juice while it's rare for the signature complement of rich, red meat and tart citrus.

Tuscan White Bean and Escarole Soup with Tuna

Cannellini beans, rosemary, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan come together in this Tuscan white bean soup. Justin Chapple adds escarole and tuna to give this dish more body.

Pappa al Pomodoro

© Fabrizio Ferri

Joe Sponzo grows his own tomatoes for this hearty Tuscan soup that uses five pounds of tomatoes to serve six.

Tuscan-Style Spareribs with Balsamic Glaze

Like his favorite Tuscan cooks, pork expert Bruce Aidells finishes his ribs with a simple balsamic glaze. The meat is generously seasoned with a mix of aromatic herbs and spices before slow roasting.

Seafood Pasta with Tuscan Hot Oil

Italian food importer and cookbook author Rolando Beramendi makes Tuscan hot oil with extra-virgin olive oil, dried parsley, crushed red pepper, and sea salt to toss with and drizzle over bucatini with six types of seafood.

Eggs Florentine with Smoky Mornay Sauce

Rest perfectly poached eggs on toasted English muffins with a bed of garlicky sauteed spinach for eggs Florentine. Justin Chapple tops his with a light cheese sauce spiked with smoked Spanish paprika.

Torta Della Nonna

"Grandmother's cake" is a traditional Tuscan dessert that each  nonna  makes slightly differently. Celebrity private chef Joe Sponzo flavors a silky pastry cream with vanilla and lemon zest (other Tuscan cooks add ricotta cheese) to fill a delicate pastry crust, topping the tart with pine nuts, a Tuscan staple.

Black-and-White Pici Pasta with Squid and Shellfish

2014 F&W Best New Chef Eli Kulp tosses the pasta from Siena with bay scallops, littleneck clams, mussels, and squid, plus a big, briny seafood sauce and spicy pickled cherry peppers.

Related Articles

Hotel Grand Universe Lucca: a slice of Tuscan history with chic modern comforts

Looking for a dreamy weekend escape from London? This gem in Lucca should fit the bill, says Cathy Hawker

Lucca might just be the most perfect Tuscan city for London weekenders, an intimate and compact mash up of narrow cobbled streets, marble-fronted churches — 101 of them — tall towers and Renaissance walls all within 30 minutes of Pisa airport. Despite its accessibility and charm, there’s a real shortage of good hotels in the city — so hurray for Grand Universe Lucca.

The 55-room hotel is part of Marriot’s Autograph Collection. Opened in 2021, it marries international quality with a thoroughly Italian flavour.

Where is it?

Inside the solid Renaissance walls that encircle Lucca, Grand Universe Lucca has a simply superb position on two of the city’s grandest squares, Piazza del Giglio and Piazza Napoleone.

The hotel’s grand façade overlooks the statue of Italian unifier Giuseppe Garibaldi with the Teatro del Giglio opera house opposite. All of Lucca’s shops, restaurants and historic sites are within an easy walk.

Lucca is an authentic, understated city in the north of Tuscany , accessible by car, train or bus from Pisa airport. Viareggio on the Tuscan coast is 30 minutes away, and within 90 minutes there’s both winter skiing at Abetone and the cultural brilliance of Florence and Chianti.

Think lavish Tuscan splendour with a contemporary flourish. The hotel is built on what was once the site of a glassblower’s atelier in Roman times before the Paoli family built their grand Renaissance palazzo. It first opened as a hotel in 1857 (with guests having included English writer John Ruskin), and now newly renovated and updated, its style gives a loyal nod to its history. There are high arched ceilings and Tuscan colours mixed with contemporary furnishings and art. It’s comfortable, welcoming and beautiful.

There’s a small gym and Champagne Roof Top Bar on the top floor and a bar, lounge area and restaurant on the ground floor, centred on a grand piano with frequent live performances. The only outside space are the dining tables lined up on Piazza Napoleone, ideal for a glimpse of daily Lucca life over breakfast or dinner.

The hotel has some cheery yellow bikes for a must-do cycle around the thick city walls — 2.5 miles of tree-lined beauty that have stood intact for over 500 years and today, act as Lucca’s park and well-used promenade. The hotel’s helpful front desk can arrange wine tasting, cookery classes and city tours. They also proved adept at reserving tables at apparently fully booked restaurants.

Extracurricular

Lucca is magnificent, a wealthy working city that made its money in the paper, silk and leather industries. It remains wonderfully local and inside the walls at least, remarkably free of large shops and most high street names. Spend the days walking the narrow lanes, browsing in the small boutiques. Stock up on fine linen shirts, beautiful leather goods and Tuscan delicacies. Climb the tree-topped gothic Torre Guinigi, one of several towers built as a show of medieval wealth and tour the ruins of the Roman amphitheatre.

Lucca was the birthplace of Puccini and his influence remains strong and as well as opportunities to hear classical music, the annual Summer Festival brings world-famous artists including, this year, Ed Sheeran and Duran Duran .

Food and Drink

The Legacy Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering a modern take on traditional Tuscan food helped in no small way by the extraordinary local produce: porcini mushrooms, truffles, fabulous fish and top grade meats. Service is delightful and warm with the majority of staff from Lucca itself. Grand Universe Lucca might have a big international hotel brand’s name above the door but this is a determinedly Tuscan hotel.

The 55 rooms and suites divide into four categories with the spacious junior suites and duplex suites benefitting from excellent views over the piazza. Top picks include 308, a junior suite on the third floor in the centre of the hotel with views over Piazza del Giglio towards the city walls, a good vantage point to watch daily Lucca life unfold. Two minutes-walk from Grand Universe Lucca, Grand Universe La Residenza has ten one and two-bedroom apartments with kitchens and generous living space.

London weekenders looking for a sure-fire dose of Italian lifestyle will find it here. Come as a couple, in a group or as a family — there are some interconnecting rooms and disabled access - and the range of activities and food options should please everyone.

The details

Double rooms are priced from £220 per night. granduniverselucca.com

The best villas to book in Europe — with sensational pools

From painting to pasta making — the best weekend hotel workshops in the UK

Deepak Chopra's futuristic new retreat — is this the frontier of luxury wellness?

'I inherited an Italian farmhouse and want everyone to enjoy its beauty'

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• Home Office

How many people come to the UK each year (including visitors)?

Published 22 August 2024

© Crown copyright 2024

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/immigration-system-statistics-year-ending-june-2024/how-many-people-come-to-the-uk-each-year-including-visitors

Back to ‘Immigration system statistics, year ending June 2024’ contents page .

Data relates to the year ending June 2024 and all comparisons are with the year ending June 2023 (unless indicated otherwise). All data includes dependants, unless indicated otherwise.

1. Passenger arrivals to the UK

Most passenger arrivals will be British nationals (many of whom will be returning from short trips outside the UK), and short-term visitors (such as those coming to the UK for a holiday). However, passenger arrivals also include people coming to the UK for other reasons (such as to work or study). More information on the data sources can be found in the ‘About the statistics’ section below.

In the year ending June 2024 there were 128.4 million arrivals to the UK, 11% more than the preceding year, and 3% higher than in the year ending December 2019 prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, when only taking air passenger arrivals into account.

Passengers arriving by air accounted for 88% of all passenger arrivals to the UK (across all routes) in the year ending June 2024, with 7% arriving via rail and 5% by sea. These are similar to the proportions for the year ending June 2023.

Figure 1: Monthly air passenger arrivals to the UK, January 2020 to June 2024

Source: Passenger arrivals - Arr_01

• Data prior to 2022 comes from Advanced Passenger Information (API) and is not directly comparable to data from Borders and Immigration Transaction Data (BITD).

From March 2020, following the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, a variety of measures were introduced to restrict global travel and the spread of the virus. These measures were phased out in the UK during the first few months of 2022, with travel to the UK now slightly higher (up by 3%) than pre-pandemic levels since. (Figure 1).

Figure 2: Monthly passenger arrivals to the UK, British and foreign, January 2022 to June 2024

Source: Passenger arrivals - Arr_02

In the year ending June 2024, 55% of total arrivals were British nationals. The monthly proportion typically remained between 50 to 60% throughout the year, with some fluctuations which may be due to seasonal trends or differing patterns in holidays.

During periods with notable COVID-19 restrictions, such as early 2021, the proportion of British nationals was as low as 31%, which aligned with the lowest overall air passenger arrivals with the number of foreign arrivals also decreasing. As passenger numbers increased from July 2021 onwards, the proportion of British nationals increased beyond 50% again, reflecting UK citizens returning ability to take holidays and other trips abroad.

2. Visitors and short-term stays

Only certain nationalities (‘visa-nationals’) are required to obtain an entry clearance visa before coming to visit the UK, which is one reason why there are considerably more non-British passenger arrivals than visas granted. Many nationalities, including US nationals do not normally require a visa to visit the UK; consequently, there are considerably fewer visitor visas granted than visitors arriving.

There are several ways a non-British national may get permission to visit the UK for a short, temporary period, (usually up to 6 months), for purposes such as tourism, visiting friends or family, carrying out a business activity, or undertaking a short course of study.

• visa nationals must apply online for an entry clearance visa in advance of travel
• non-visa nationals can be granted leave to enter on arrival at the UK border
• people with existing immigration status do not need additional documents
• the electronic travel authorisation ( ETA ) scheme is for visitors who do not need a visa for short stays to the UK, or who do not already have a UK immigration status prior to travelling

There were 2.1 million visitor visas granted in the year ending June 2024, 16% higher than the year ending June 2023 but 13% lower than 2019, prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Visitor visa grants have continued to increase post-pandemic but are still below their peak in 2019 (2.4 million). This difference is largely due to 134,699 fewer grants to Chinese nationals, but also 119,107 fewer grants to Saudi Arabians, who no longer required a visa to visit the UK from 1 June 2022.

In the year ending June 2024, Indian nationals accounted for 25% of Visitor visas granted (530,587), with Chinese nationals accounting for 24% (507,883). The next largest visa nationalities were Turkish (7%), Nigerian (5%), Pakistani and South African nationals (both 4%).

The increase in the latest year was largely accounted for by 264,832 more visitor visas granted to Chinese nationals, more than double the number in year ending June 2023, although still 21% fewer than in the year ending December 2019, prior to the pandemic. The next largest increase in visitor visa grants in the latest year was seen by Turkish nationals with 41,535 more grants.

The ETA scheme opened to Qatari nationals on 25 October 2023. From 1 February 2024, the scheme was extended to nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan. To the end of June 2024, there had been 393,253 applications for ETAs and 388,021 grants since the ETA scheme started.

Table 1: Applications and outcomes for ETAs by nationality, from scheme commencement 1 to the end of June 2024

• The ETA Scheme commenced on 25 October 2023 for Qatari nationals only and was later opened to nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan on 1 February 2024

Additional information on visitors to the UK is published by the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) in its publication ‘Leisure and tourism statistics’ .

3. Other grants of Entry clearance visas

There were 1.3 million non-visit visas granted in the year ending June 2024, 13% fewer than in the year ending June 2023, but 68% higher than in 2019. This was made up of Work (546,774), Study (530,496), Family (84,403) and ‘Other’ (114,763) visas, which includes the Ukraine schemes (28,491).

Figure 3: Entry clearance visas granted by route (main applicants and dependants) between the year ending June 2015 and the year ending June 2024

Source: Entry clearance visa applications and outcomes – Vis_D02

• Other includes Ukraine Scheme Visas, British National (Overseas), Dependants joining or accompanying, EEA and EUSS Permits.

There were almost 3.4 million visas granted in the year ending June 2024. The number of visas granted are now 7% higher than in 2019 – before the COVID-19 pandemic and while the UK was still part of the EU – due to more work and study visas being granted (1.1 million in the year ending June 2024 compared with 596,969 in 2019). The number of visitor visa grants are still lower than in 2019. Figure 3 shows that the increase within the last year is primarily due to 294,447 more visitor visas, which now make up nearly two-thirds (62%) of total entry clearance visas granted in the year ending June 2024.

4. About these statistics

The statistics in this section provide an indication of the number of people who enter the UK. The data does not show whether, or when, an individual arrived in the UK, what they did on arrival to the UK or how long they stayed in the UK. Many nationalities do not normally require a visa to visit the UK. As a result, they will be counted in the passenger arrivals data but not in the visa data. A list of designated nationalities referred to as ‘visa nationals’ who do require a visa to visit the UK can be found in Immigration Rules Appendix V: visitor rules .

For several reasons, data on passenger arrivals is not directly comparable with data on Entry clearance visas granted. A summary of what each dataset counts is provided in section 4.1 below and section 4.2 .

4.1 Passenger arrivals

The statistics in this release relate to the number of passengers crossing the border through legitimate routes. The method used to measure those arriving in the UK have been improved and differ from methods used previously and published regularly in the ‘admissions’ data tables, which are now a part of the ‘Passengers refused entry at the border’ summary tables. Further information on the differences between these methods can be found in the user guide . Any nationality breakdowns are based on the nationality associated with the passport used to enter the UK (regardless of any dual nationality held).

The statistics include people entering the UK on most air, sea and rail routes, and while they include the vast majority of arrivals, there are some coverage gaps. For example, people entering the UK via the Common Travel Area (CTA) between the UK and Ireland are not required to present their passport on entry to the UK and will not be included in the data.

Previous Passenger Arrivals reports used Advance Passenger Information (API) data, which primarily relates to passengers coming to the UK via commercial aviation routes. The data does not include those arriving by sea or rail routes, by private vessel. As a result, figures in this report may differ from passenger arrival statistics published elsewhere, however, the levels should be broadly comparable.

4.2 Entry clearance visas

Data on Entry clearance visas in this section refer to the number of visas granted for all reasons within the period. References in the statistics to ‘visas’ will also include Entry clearance ‘permits’, such as EEA and EU Settlement Scheme Family permits, or Frontier Worker permits. If an individual was granted multiple visas in a given period, this will be counted as multiple grants in the statistics. If an individual entered the UK multiple times within the period for which a visa was valid, this will be counted as one grant in the visa statistics, but multiple arrivals in the passenger arrivals data.

Year-on-year comparisons of the number of decisions can be affected by quarterly fluctuations in the data. Such fluctuations can be examined in more detail in the quarterly data that is available in the published tables.

Several known factors may have affected the number of applications and outcomes of visit-related visas over time. For example, the Home Office launched a 2-year Chinese visa pilot in January 2016 for Chinese nationals. The increase in longer-term Visitor visas may affect the number of subsequent re-applications by Chinese nationals.

More information on non-visitor arrival and visa data by category is included in ʻWhy do people come to the UK? To work’ , ʻWhy do people come to the UK? To study’ and ʻWhy do people come to the UK? For family reasons’ .

For more information on specific routes to the UK, including Ukraine Visa Schemes and British National (Overseas) ( BN(O) ) visas, see the ‘ Safe and legal (humanitarian) routes to the UK ’.

4.3 Electronic travel authorisations ( ETAs )

Data on ETAs in this section refer to the number of ETAs applied for, and either granted, refused, or rejected within this period. If an individual was granted multiple ETAs in a given period, this will be counted as multiple grants in the statistics. If an individual entered the UK multiple times within the period for which an ETA was valid, this will be counted as one grant in the ETA statistics, but multiple arrivals in the passenger arrivals data.

An ETA application is rejected if it does not meet the validity requirements set out in paragraphs ETA 1.1. – 1.2. of the Immigration Rules: Appendix ETA , specifically ETA 1.1. (d) and/or (e). Following a rejection, applicants are able to reapply for an ETA .

An ETA application must be refused where one of the reasons outlined in paragraphs ETA 2.1. – 2.7 of the Immigration Rules: Appendix ETA , is met. If an ETA application is refused, if the applicant wishes to travel to the UK they should make an application for a visitor visa.

Further information can be found on the electronic travel authorisation ( ETA ) guidance page .

5. Data tables

• Sponsorship summary tables
• Detailed sponsorship datasets
• Entry clearance visas summary tables
• Detailed entry clearance visas datasets
• Passenger arrivals summary tables

We welcome your feedback

If you have any comments or suggestions for the development of this report, please provide feedback by emailing [email protected] . Please include the words ‘PUBLICATION FEEDBACK’ in the subject of your email.

We’re always looking to improve the accessibility of our documents. If you find any problems or have any feedback relating to accessibility, please email us.

See section 6 of the ‘ About this release ’ section for more details.

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