Plan the Best Tuscany Road Trip for 7 Days in 2024

Tuscany is arguably the most popular place to visit in Italy, and I’m confident this is what you’re traveling to the country for. And to make the most of your time around, you’ll want to plan the ultimate Tuscany road trip itinerary.

I’m half Italian and I was lucky enough to spend a few years in Tuscany, living in Prato, Florence, and Massa, and I can’t wait to tell you everything you should know when coming to this part of Italy.

Yes, Tuscany is a very popular travel destination, and you can expect crowds of tourists around the cities and rural towns, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a fabulous time!

In this guide, I’ll go through everything you should know for your first time in Tuscany, from the ultimate itinerary day by day to local tips that will save you money and hours in line and gorgeous hilltop villages!

Plan the Best Tuscany Road Trip for 7 Days

Overview: 7-Day Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary

In a nutshell, this is the road trip Tuscany I took and you’ll want to do, which is a mix of museum, cultural exploration, and countryside to make the most of your time in the region.

  • Day 1 and 2: Florence
  • Day 3: Day Trip to Lucca
  • Day 4: Day Trip to Siena
  • Day 5: San Gimignano, Volterra, Cortona
  • Day 6: Val D’Orcia – Montepulciano, Montalcino, Pienza
  • Day 7: Spend the Day in Pisa

Make sure to read this guide until the end as I’ll go through the best places to eat, to stay, and some local tips that will make your Italian road trip even better!

Do You Need a Car for this Itinerary?

Yes, I planned this guide with renting a car in mind, and while you can join guided tours around Tuscany, I personally rented a car and prepared the trip with a slower pace in mind.

Note: There are plenty of car rental agencies in Tuscany and near the major airports, but you still want to book early to get better deals and get a car at a reputable rental car company.

I’m half-Italian, so driving around feels normal to me, but if you’re not comfortable, then check out this other guide of mine where renting a car isn’t necessary.

Plan-the-Best-7-Day-Tuscany-Itinerary

Want to know more?

Check out this Tuscany itinerary
for 7 days
where renting a car isn’t needed.

Car-driving-in-Tuscany

What is the Best Time to Visit Tuscany?

Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and scenic landscapes, making them ideal times to visit Tuscany. These months allow for comfortable exploration of outdoor sites and participation in local festivals.

Summer (July and August) is peak tourist season, leading to more crowded attractions and higher temperatures, but still remains a popular choice for its atmosphere and extended daylight hours.

Aerial-view-of-Tuscany-with-cypress-trees

Is One Week in Tuscany Enough?

Planning a one-week Tuscany Italy road trip lets you visit major landmarks and taste all the best regional cuisine, providing a solid introduction to Tuscany’s cultural and natural attractions.

This timeframe allows for a balanced mix of city visits, countryside relaxation, and historical site exploration.

If you have more time available, consider extending your stay to 10 days, as it will give you extra time to relax and visit at a slower pace.

Should You Stay in the City or in the Countryside?

Deciding between staying in the city or the countryside in Tuscany doesn’t have to be an either/or choice; I recommend a mix of both and get the best of both worlds.

I suggest starting your Tuscany itinerary by staying in Florence, the region’s cultural and historical epicenter. Here, you’re ideally positioned to explore iconic museums, galleries, and architectural marvels.

As for the countryside portion of your trip, consider staying in agriturismos—local guest houses situated in rural settings. These accommodations provide a unique opportunity to experience the tranquil beauty of Tuscan landscapes, indulge in home-cooked, farm-fresh cuisine, and interact with local hosts.

This approach allows you to enjoy the art and history of urban life while also enjoying the peaceful, scenic beauty and gastronomy of the countryside.

Note that country houses in Tuscany are more expensive than regular hotels, so that’s something to keep in mind when it comes to budgeting your trip to Italy.

Staying in a Tuscan Villa is a dream for many!

7 Day Tuscany Road Trip: A Detailed Guide

I assume you’ll start your trip around Tuscany in either Florence or Rome. I personally started in Florence and stayed here as a base while taking a day trip to Lucca and Siena.

Many people head straight to the countryside or smaller towns in Tuscany like Siena, but I think starting your trip in Florence is best to get a feel of Tuscany.

Also, you can either fly into Florence Airport or Pisa International Airport. The former is closer to the city and is more convenient, but flights to Pisa are cheaper and rental cars too.

We flew into Pisa Airport and we then drove to Florence, took a road trip around the region, and ended the journey in Pisa where we spent one day and returned the car.

Some people fly into Bologna Airport but I find it’s pretty far and you definitely don’t want to waste any minute on your Tuscany trip!

Day 1: Florence

The best place to start your 7-day Tuscany itinerary is the heart of the region, Florence, and that’s my personal preference.

You’ll get to visit the best spots in town before heading to the countryside. Here’s what your travel plan should be for the first day!

Start your trip around Florence at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, known as Il Duomo. This iconic cathedral, with its red dome, is hard to miss and is a must-do when visiting.

I recommend booking a combined ticket online in advance to see the cathedral, Brunelleschi’s Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery. This is easily the most popular spot in town and they sell out every day, so getting your tickets ahead of time is key to make the most of your travel plan.

Start early to beat the crowds. The climb up the dome (463 steps) rewards you with stunning city views, but it’s not for the faint-hearted!

Each site within this complex showcases a piece of Florence’s rich history and art, making it an essential and comprehensive start to your day.

Duomo-of-Florence
Gorgeous Piazza Del Duomo in Florence
Views-from-Giotto-Tower-in-Florence
Views from Giotto Tower in Florence
Ceiling of the Cathedral in Florence
Ceiling of the Cathedral in Florence

For lunch, make your way to Trattoria Mario, a delicious spot nestled close to the San Lorenzo market. This family-run trattoria serves up authentic Tuscan food.

Their menu changes daily but always includes traditional dishes such as Ribollita (a hearty Tuscan soup) and Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak), cooked over an open flame.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak)

After lunch, head to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most visited museums in Italy. The Uffizi houses an extensive collection of Renaissance art, arguably the most significant in the world.

Highlights include Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and “Primavera,” Leonardo da Vinci’s “Annunciation,” and Michelangelo’s “Doni Tondo.” The gallery itself is a masterpiece, with its long corridors and ornate ceilings.

Plan to spend a few hours here, as there’s a lot to see. Following your museum visit, take a leisurely walk across the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence, known for its medieval stone arches and jewelry shops that line both sides.

Aerial view of Florence with the Duomo.

Related Guide

Here’s a complete guide about
taking a trip to Florence.

Finish your day with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo, ideally timed to catch the sunset. This square is situated on a hill south of the city center and offers panoramic views of Florence, including the Duomo, the Arno River, and the Tuscan hills beyond.

Let me tell you, this is easily the best viewpoint in Florence, and possibly in Tuscany!

The ambiance here is peaceful, with locals and tourists gathering to take in the view and listen to street performers.

Nearby, small vendors and cafes offer a place to enjoy a glass of Chianti as the day ends, allowing for a moment of reflection on the beauty and history of Florence.

For dinner, I recommend Ristorante La Grotta Toscana, which is delicious, centrally located, and with affordable prices! Make sure to book on The Fork to get a discount.

Can you even beat these views?
Not the best photo, but surely some of the best memories.

Where to Stay in Florence

Where to Eat in Florence

  • La Grotta Toscana: Renowned for its gourmet Tuscan dishes, making it perfect for a special evening out. Their pasta is a must-try.
  • Trattoria Mario: A bustling, family-run spot known for its traditional Florentine steak and homey Tuscan dishes. It’s a favorite for a no-frills, authentic experience.
  • Osteria Santo Spirito: Offers a cozy atmosphere in the Oltrarno district, with generous portions of pasta and a variety of local wines.

Best Tours in Florence

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Day 2: Florence

Start your second day with a visit to Palazzo Pitti, the majestic Renaissance residence of Florence’s rulers, now a complex of museums. To avoid the larger crowds that gather as the day progresses, it’s wise to start here.

Purchase a combined ticket online beforehand for both the palace and the Boboli Gardens, which will save you time and hassle. Visit the palatial rooms and the extensive art collections, including paintings, costumes, and jewelry, offering insight into the lives of the Medici family and their era.

Once you’ve explored the palace, make your way to the Boboli Gardens. Located directly behind the palace, these expansive gardens provide a nice escape with beautifully arranged landscapes, sculptures, and fountains.

Plan at least 3 to 4 hours to visit both Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens, as the complex is simply massive, but it’s worth it!

Palazzo-Pitti
Inside-Palazzo-Pitti
Boboli-Gardens-in-Florence

Have lunch at Trattoria Vasari, known for its delicious traditional Tuscan dishes. Located right next to Palazzo Pitti, it’s reasonably priced and the food is to die for! Make sure to taste the Carbonara here. And if you have some room for dessert, the ice cream at Mancuso Gelati is the right place to stop!

In the afternoon, explore the Basilica of Santa Croce, the final resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. This church is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Later, enjoy some leisure time at the Florence leather market near the Ponte Vecchio, where you can shop for souvenirs and handmade leather goods. I got a leather handbag for my mom for 55 euros, negotiated from 70, and you can expect a similar price, but make sure it’s actual leather!

And before ending the day at one delicious restaurant in Florence, don’t forget to visit the famous Accademia Gallery and the iconic David of Michelangelo – A visit to Florence wouldn’t be complete if you miss it!

Return to Piazzale Michelangelo if you wish for another serene sunset view, or consider an evening walk through the historic center, which feels magical at night with its illuminated streets and monuments.

Il-Palio-di-Siena-horse-race

Related Guide

Here’s a complete guide about
the best day trips from Florence.

David-of-Michelangelo-inside-the-Accademy-Museum
Leather-market-in-Florence

Day 3: Day Trip to Lucca

Lucca is a gem in Tuscany that is often overshadowed by other places like Siena or San Gimignano, but I personally think you should spend a day here, as you’ll find real Italian culture.

The town is renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance walls encircling the old city, now transformed into walking and biking paths. You’ll find countless churches, two towers, and historic buildings to get a glimpse of Italian history without the overcrowding of more famous Tuscan cities.

I recommend leaving early from Florence to Lucca to maximize your day. You can head straight to Lucca and park just outside any of the city’s four gates—parking is affordable and convenient for exploring.

Lucca-Cathedral

Want to know more?

Check out this guide about
spending one day in Lucca.

Lucca best towns to visit in Tuscany best Tuscan Towns

Upon arrival, start with a walk along Lucca’s Renaissance walls, offering scenic views and a lush pathway around the city. Then, get into the heart of Lucca with a visit to its famed churches, including the San Michele in Foro, known for its striking facade, and the Duomo di San Martino, a masterpiece of Pisan-Romanesque architecture housing remarkable artworks.

Next, head to Via Fillungo, the main street that cuts through the city center. and where you can grab souvenirs, local Tuscan handcrafts, and high-quality clothes.

This avenue is perfect for experiencing Lucca’s vibrant atmosphere, with its mix of medieval buildings, chic boutiques, and nice little cafes and ice cream shops.

Walls-of-Lucca
San Martino Church in Lucca

In the afternoon, make your way to the Torre delle Ore, the ancient clock tower you can climb for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The climb is worth the effort for the unique perspective it offers. Afterward, take time to wander through Lucca’s charming alleys and squares, discovering hidden gems and soaking in the local culture.

Additional Tips: Remember, Lucca is known for its intact city walls that you can walk or bike around. Renting a bike is a fun way to circle the city if time allows. Also, the Guinigi Tower, with its distinctive trees on top, is another must-see for the adventurous willing to climb another tower.

Conclude your day trip by heading back to the train station to get back to Lucca or staying here for the night. Day 4 is all about Siena and going there is easy by car from either Lucca or Florence.

View at Torre delle Ore in Lucca
View at Torre delle Ore in Lucca
Piazza-dellanfiteatro-in-Lucca

Where to Stay in Lucca

Where to Eat in Lucca

  • Trattoria Da Leo – A Lucca staple serving classic Lucchese dishes in a friendly, casual setting. Their zuppa di farro (spelt soup) is a traditional choice.
  • Osteria San Giorgio – Offers a rustic yet refined dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and local wines.
  • Buca di Sant’Antonio – Known for its historical charm and extensive menu featuring regional specialties, this place has been welcoming guests since the 18th century.

Best Tours in Lucca

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Day 4: Day Trip to Siena

Siena is easily accessible from Florence by rental car and you’ll enjoy the scenic Tuscan countryside en route. Parking is available right outside the city center. We parked at this one and was centrally located and not too expensive.

Note: If you don’t rent a car, the best way to visit Siena and Tuscany is to join this tour, which includes a stop in Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa.

Once in Siena, start the day at the heart of Siena, the Piazza del Campo. This shell-shaped square is famous for hosting the Palio, a famous horse race. Take your time to admire the Fonte Gaia, the largest fountain in the square, and the surrounding medieval architecture.

Next, visit the Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena), a Gothic masterpiece with exquisite façade and interior decorations, including Michelangelo’s sculptures and Donatello’s artworks.

I highly recommend booking a combined ticket for the cathedral complex in advance to access the Piccolomini Library and the Baptistry.

Siena from Florence itinerary 3 days best towns in Tuscany
Siena cathedral best towns in Tuscany

Enjoy a traditional Sienese lunch at one of the trattorias around Piazza del Campo. Dishes to try include pici pasta with ragù and the sweet treat panforte. We had lunch at Prètto Prosciutteria e Convivio and the pasta and sandwich were incredibly tasty!

After lunch, explore the Museo Civico inside the Palazzo Pubblico, where you can see famous frescoes that depict Siena’s historic governance and virtue.

Then, climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views of the city and the Tuscan hills beyond. Spend the rest of your afternoon wandering through Siena’s winding streets, discovering hidden gems and soaking in the rich history.

Conclude your day in Siena with a stroll to the Basilica of San Domenico, a significant Gothic church holding relics of St. Catherine of Siena.

As the evening sets in, find a cozy spot in one of the city’s squares to enjoy dinner, perhaps trying local wines like Chianti or Brunello. Siena’s intimate atmosphere by night offers a perfect backdrop to reflect on the day’s experiences.

I recommend staying in Siena for the night to continue with your Tuscany itinerary on Day 5. A tip I have is to book early as hotels in town sell out super fast and you want to secure your room as soon as possible.

The views from Torre del Mangia are stunning!
Siena gets gorgeous by night

Where to Stay in Siena

Where to Eat in Siena

  • Prètto Prosciutteria e Convivio – A warm and inviting eatery offering a memorable dining experience with aged wines and delicious truffles when in season.
  • Osteria Le Logge – Initially a pharmacy, this place transformed into a restaurant that blends traditional recipes with innovative touches.
  • Antica Osteria da Divo – Carved into ancient Etruscan ruins, this restaurant offers a unique ambiance and specializes in Sienese cuisine.

Best Tours to Siena

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Day 5: San Gimignano, Volterra, Cortona

Start the day driving to San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage site in southern Tuscany, renowned for its fourteen towering medieval structures that give the town its distinctive skyline, reminiscent of a medieval Tuscan town.

These towers, built by rival families in the past, served as symbols of wealth and power. You’ll want to start early to avoid the crowds, as San Gimignano is one of the most popular towns in Tuscany.

Head directly to Piazza della Cisterna, named after the central well, and surrounded by beautiful medieval buildings. This is the perfect spot for photos.

Next, visit the Collegiate Church of San Gimignano, a Romanesque church adorned with remarkable frescoes depicting Old and New Testament stories, reflecting the town’s rich religious and artistic history.

For lunch, choose one of the local trattorias offering dishes made with saffron and Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine, both local specialties. A dish featuring wild boar would provide a taste of traditional Tuscan game, and Le Vecchie Mura is your best bet, and they have incredible views!

Activities in San Gimignano towns in tuscany
Tuscan Town of San Gimignano

After lunch, make your way to Volterra, a medieval hilltop town is surrounded by defensive walls, offering stunning views of the Tuscan landscape. It’s located only about 30-40 minutes by car, so that’s an easy and quick road trip.

Volterra’s history spans across Etruscan, Roman, and Medieval periods, making it a town rich in historical sites and cultural heritage.

Start with Piazza Dei Priori and the Etruscan Museum (Museo Etrusco Guarnacci), home to one of Italy’s most extensive collections of Etruscan artifacts, including the famous ‘Shadow of the Evening’ bronze statue.

After that, visit the well-preserved Roman Theatre, discovered in the 1950s, which provides a glimpse into the town’s ancient past. The alabaster workshops scattered around Volterra offer insight into the craft that has been associated with the town for centuries.

Make sure to get a piece of alabaster art for a unique souvenir of your visit.

Volterra in Tuscany
Piazza-Dei-Priori-Volterra

Plan your journey so you arrive in Cortona by the evening. The drive between Volterra and Cortona is your chance to see the beautiful Tuscan countryside, characterized by rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves.

Wander through Cortona’s narrow streets, which lead to the vibrant Piazza della Repubblica, the town’s main square with the Palazzo Comunale (Town Hall) facing it. For dinner, find a local osteria and try regional dishes such as pici pasta, a thick, hand-rolled pasta often served with a meaty sauce, or dishes featuring Chianina beef, a prized local cattle breed.

If time permits, a visit to the Basilica of Santa Margherita, located at the highest point of the town, offers not only spiritual insight but also panoramic views of the surrounding Val di Chiana and Lake Trasimeno, especially enchanting at sunset.

Additional Notes:

  • Each of these towns has its own set of ZTL zones, so if you’re driving, park outside the historic center and explore on foot.
  • Considering the ambitious schedule, it’s important to start early and keep track of time to enjoy each location.
  • If joining a tour, you’ll get back to Florence or Siena. On the other hand, if you drive, you’ll want to stay in Cortona for the night to head to the Val D’Orcia on Day 6.
Cortona from Florence
The peaceful town of Cortona is as authentic as it gets!
Cortona at night
The peaceful town of Cortona at night – So charming.

Where to Stay in Cortona

Day 6: Val D’Orcia (Montepulciano, Montalcino, Pienza)

The Val D’Orcia is the most popular place in Tuscany, and you’ve probably seen photos online of the rolling hills and traditional Tuscan houses. Well, that’s what Day 6 is all about!

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Val d’Orcia region is the idyllic Tuscan landscape with its rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque towns, and coming here will be the highlight of your trip to Italy!

Begin your day in Montepulciano, a medieval town famed for its Vino Nobile, one of Italy’s premier wines. The town sits high on a limestone ridge, offering stunning views of the Tuscan countryside.

Explore the Piazza Grande, the heart of Montepulciano, surrounded by Renaissance buildings and the impressive Town Hall, resembling a miniature version of Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio.

A must-do is a visit to one of the many cantinas in town. These wine cellars, some carved out of ancient Etruscan tombs, offer tastings of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. The cantinas of historic producers like Contucci and De’ Ricci provide not just wine tasting but a journey through the history of Tuscan winemaking.

Hilltop town overlooking a lush valley.

Want to know more?

Here’s a complete guide about
the best things to do in Montepulciano.

Aerial view of an Italian piazza with towers.
Historical town square with people. Things to do in Montepulciano

After exploring Montepulciano, head to Montalcino, another renowned wine town just about 45 minutes’ drive from Montepulciano. Montalcino is best known for its Brunello di Montalcino wine.

Enjoy lunch at a local osteria in Montalcino, indulging in dishes that pair perfectly with a glass of Brunello. Typical meals might include pappardelle with wild boar sauce or Tuscan pecorino cheese, and Il Moro is the right place for lunch!

The Tuscan town of Montalcino
Val-DOrcia-7-day-Tuscany-itinerary
Isn’t this what we call a dreamy landscape?

A short drive from Montalcino, Pienza is a small town in Tuscany designed with the idea of a perfect city during the Renaissance. The main square, Piazza Pio II, is surrounded by beautiful buildings like the Palazzo Piccolomini, which has a great view of the Tuscan hills from its garden.

Pienza is also famous for its delicious Pecorino cheese, made from sheep’s milk. You can taste and buy this cheese in many shops around the town.

Visiting Pienza gives you a mix of history, architecture, and tasty local food, all in a picturesque setting that looks like a postcard of the Tuscan countryside.

Tuscan town of Pienza
Pienza-cathedral

Conclude your exploration of the Val d’Orcia with a scenic drive back to Florence. The last of these 7 days in Tuscany will take place in Pisa, where you’ll see the iconic Leaning Tower!

Additional Notes:

  • Each town’s center is relatively compact, making it possible to explore the main sights on foot.
  • Booking wine tastings in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • The drive between these towns is as much a part of the experience as the destinations themselves, with breathtaking views and photo opportunities along the way.
sunset-in-val-dorcia
Gorgeous sunset views in Val D’Orcia

Day 7: Spend the Day in Pisa

Getting to Pisa only takes about an hour, and this makes it perfect for a day trip from Florence to Pisa.

If you get a rental car like we did, return it in Pisa and fly out from the international airport here. And if you didn’t, take the train or a guided tour from Florence to see the key spots in Pisa in one day.

Once you arrive, the city’s main attractions are within walking distance of the train station and you can easily get to the Piazza dei Miracoli in about 30 minutes’ walk. There are plenty of parking options near the city center, but I found the train station a good place to keep the car.

Start your exploration at Pisa’s iconic Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This walled area is home to three masterpieces of medieval architecture.

  • Leaning Tower of Pisa: No visit to Pisa is complete without seeing the Leaning Tower. You’ll want to book your ticket in advance if you plan to climb to the top for a unique perspective of the city. Remember, there are about 297 steps, and the climb can be a bit challenging but worth it.
  • Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery: After visiting the tower, explore the impressive Pisa Cathedral with its stunning Pisan-Romanesque architecture, and the Baptistery, known for its remarkable acoustics. Take your time to admire the art and architecture of these sites.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café or restaurant. Pisan cuisine offers simple, flavorful dishes such as cecina (chickpea pancake) and pasta with wild boar sauce. We went to Osteria I Santi and we had a fabulous meal.

Pisa Cathedral and Leaning Tower against blue sky. Pisa tour from Florence

After lunch, go visit Pisa city. Spend the early afternoon visiting the Camposanto, an ancient cemetery on the same grounds, known for its beautiful frescoes and serene atmosphere.

Later, take a stroll along the Arno River, which cuts through the city. The walk offers beautiful views and leads you through charming streets lined with historic buildings.

If time allows, visit the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo, which showcases a collection of Tuscan art from the 12th to 15th centuries, or the Palazzo Blu for temporary exhibitions.

As the day ends, find a spot near the river or in one of Pisa’s lively squares to enjoy dinner. Pisan cuisine features many seafood dishes, reflecting its coastal location. Finish your meal with a gelato and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the city as night falls.

Additional Notes:

  • While the Leaning Tower is the highlight for many, taking the time to explore Pisa’s other historical and cultural sites can provide a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history.
  • Pisa is relatively compact, making it ideal for walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
Day trip from florence to pisa pisa from above drone shot

Where to Stay in Pisa

Where to Eat in Pisa

  • Ristorante Il Campano – Offers a range of Pisan specialties in a cozy setting, perfect for experiencing local flavors like cecina.
  • Osteria dei Cavalieri – Known for its attention to detail and a menu that creatively interprets traditional Tuscan recipes.
  • I Porci Comodi – Nestled in the heart of Pisa, this humble, delicious place is great for homemade sandwiches with fresh ingredients.

Best Tours in Pisa

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Travel Tips for Visiting Tuscany

Now that you know how to plan the perfect 7-day Tuscany road trip, let’s go through some tips that I recommend as a local.

Book Tickets and Tours in Advance

When visiting popular spots like the Uffizi Gallery in Florence or the Leaning Tower of Pisa, buy your tickets before you go. This way, you won’t have to wait in long lines and you’ll be sure you can get in.

Also, if you want to do something special like a wine tasting or a cooking class, you need to book these in advance too. Booking early can sometimes let you skip the lines and get a better look at everything, which makes the whole day more enjoyable.

Use The Fork to Eat Cheap

The Fork is an app that helps you find restaurants and get good deals on meals. You can book a table through the app and often get a discount on your food.

It’s great for finding places to eat that you might not know about and can help you save money while still enjoying great food in Tuscany. It may not be popular in smaller towns in Tuscany but there are lots of options in bigger cities like Florence and Pisa.

Carry Some Cash

While many stores accept payment with credit card, some don’t, and some gas stations don’t accept international cards, so you’ll want to have some cash available just in case.

Plan Around the Seasons

Tuscany is best in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). The weather is nice, not too hot or too cold, and there aren’t as many tourists. Plus, the countryside looks really pretty with all the flowers in spring and the changing leaves in fall.

These times are also good for visiting because there are lots of food and wine festivals to check out.

Learn Basic Italian Words

Knowing a few simple words and phrases in Italian can make your trip better. Even just being able to say “hello,” “thank you,” and “please” can make a big difference.

Learn Basic Italian Words: Knowing some simple Italian can really help during your trip. Start with greetings like “Ciao” (Hello/Goodbye), “Buongiorno” (Good morning), and “Buonasera” (Good evening). Saying “Grazie” (Thank you) and “Per favore” (Please) shows politeness. If you’re eating out, “Il conto, per favore” means “The bill, please.”

For asking if someone speaks English, you can say “Parla inglese?” It’s not only practical but also fun to try speaking the local language.

Renting a Car VS Joining Guided Tours

Deciding whether to rent a car or join a guided tour depends on what you like to do. If you want to go at your own pace and see places that are hard to get to with public transport, renting a car is a good choice.

Just remember, driving in some areas can be tricky because of narrow roads and restrictions in city centers.

If you prefer not to drive, guided tours are a great option. Tours can take you to all the main sights and give you lots of interesting information without the stress of driving.

FAQ About Tuscany

Last but not least, let’s discuss some questions from first-timers that may be helpful to you too.

How Many Days to Spend in Tuscany?

Spending 7 to 10 days in Tuscany is ideal. This gives you enough time to explore the major sights without rushing. You can soak in the rich culture, savor the delicious food and wine, and even relax in the stunning countryside.

With a week or more, you can mix famous spots like Florence and Pisa with quieter, less-visited towns, ensuring a well-rounded Tuscan experience.

What is the Best Base for a Week in Tuscany?

Florence is the top pick as a home base for a week in Tuscany, whether you’re planning a road trip or prefer day trips using public transport. It’s centrally located, making it easy to reach other Tuscan highlights.

Plus, Florence itself is packed with art, history, and culinary delights, ensuring that even your “down” days are full of exploration and discovery.

What is the Most Beautiful Part of Tuscany?

The Val d’Orcia region stands out as Tuscany’s crown jewel. Its rolling hills, dotted with cypress trees, ancient farmhouses, and vineyards, are the subject of countless postcards and paintings.

This area encapsulates the essence of Tuscany’s rural charm and is perfect for experiencing the tranquil beauty of the countryside, enjoying wine tastings, and capturing unforgettable photographs.

Conclusion – Italy Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary

As your 7-day Tuscan road trip comes to a close, you’ll leave with a collection of unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the Italian way of life.

This journey through Tuscany offers more than just a glimpse into Italy’s heart—it invites you to live, taste, and revel in a region that has inspired poets, artists, and travelers for centuries.

From the cobblestone streets of Florence to the valleys of the Val d’Orcia, every moment spent in Tuscany is one you’ll remember forever!

Thanks for reading this guide until the end and I hope it was helpful in planning your road trip in Tuscany!

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Stefan

About Me

Digital Nomad traveling while working remotely
Man with outstretched arms overlooking a valley and river.

Hello, my name is Stefan!

Thanks for passing by. I’m here to show you the world and give you the best possible tricks on the places I’ve been.

Choose the destination, and go for the place you’re planning to go to know more!

Quick Overview

Any Questions?

Get in touch here for feedback or collaborations.

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