Tuscany remains one of most captivating regions in Italy. Known for its rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and medieval hilltop towns, it offers a landscape and atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the country. It is celebrated for its timeless countryside, Renaissance art, historic cities, and world-class food and wine. If you’re planning your next Italian escape, here are the top things to do in Tuscany.
Florence - The birthplace of the Renaissance
No holiday to Tuscany is complete without experiencing Florence, often called the birthplace of the Renaissance. This beautiful city grew in wealth and power under the Medici family, who supported artists, architects, and thinkers who transformed not only Florence but the entire Western world.
Top sights in Florence
- The Duomo, or Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is one of Florence’s most iconic sights. Brunelleschi’s magnificent red dome dominates the skyline, and standing in Piazza del Duomo, surrounded by the cathedral, baptistery, and bell tower, is truly awe-inspiring.
- The Ponte Vecchio is Florence’s oldest bridge, rebuilt in the 14th century, and today it is lined with glittering jewellery shops, continuing a tradition that dates back hundreds of years.
- Piazza della Signoria has been the heart of Florence’s political life for centuries. Here, grand statues and the imposing Palazzo Vecchio tell stories of power, art, and intrigue, making it feel like an open-air museum.
If you have some free time in Florence:
- Visit the Uffizi Gallery, where you can admire incredible works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael.
- Stand before Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery. Seeing this masterpiece in real life is an unforgettable moment for many travellers.
Pisa - City of architectural wonders
Pisa is famous for its Leaning Tower, but its history goes far beyond this landmark. In the Middle Ages, it was one of Italy’s most powerful maritime republics, rivalling Venice and Genoa. Its wealth from Mediterranean trade created a legacy of grand architecture and cultural richness that still impresses visitors today.
Top sights in Pisa
- The Leaning Tower of Pisa was originally built as the cathedral’s bell tower, but it began to lean soon after construction due to unstable foundations. Today, it remains one of Italy’s most recognised symbols, and climbing to the top offers spectacular views over the city and countryside.
- Piazza dei Miracoli, or Square of Miracles, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of Pisa’s artistic and religious life. Here you can admire the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, an impressive example of Romanesque architecture with its intricate marble facade and richly decorated interior. The Baptistery is famous for its remarkable acoustics and elegant blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The Camposanto Monumentale is a historic cemetery said to be built on sacred soil brought back from Jerusalem, filled with ancient frescoes and Roman sarcophagi.
If you have some free time in Pisa:
- Wander through Pisa’s medieval streets beyond the main square to discover hidden trattorias, artisan shops, and peaceful piazzas.
- Visit the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo to learn more about the art, treasures, and history of the cathedral complex and its construction.
Lucca - Puccini's hometown
Lucca is a charming walled city known for its well-preserved Renaissance ramparts and peaceful piazzas. It was the birthplace of composer Giacomo Puccini, famous for operas such as La Bohème and Madama Butterfly.
Top sights in Lucca
- The Puccini Museum is set in the house where Puccini was born, offering insight into his life, music, and legacy.
- Lucca’s city walls are wide and tree-lined, perfect for walking while enjoying lovely views of the city and its surroundings.
- Piazza dell’Anfiteatro is a unique oval-shaped piazza built on the site of an ancient Roman amphitheatre, now lined with cafés and shops.
If you have some free time Lucca:
- Explore Lucca Cathedral (San Martino) with its beautiful facade and artwork inside.
- Enjoy a coffee in one of Lucca’s quiet piazzas, soaking up the laid-back atmosphere.
Siena - A city of heritage and art
Siena is one of Tuscany’s most captivating cities, known for its medieval brick buildings and rich history. It flourished during the Middle Ages as a centre of banking and art, rivalling Florence in wealth and influence.
Top sights in Siena
- Piazza del Campo is the city’s shell-shaped main square, famous for the Palio horse race held twice each summer.
- The Siena Cathedral, or Duomo di Siena, is an impressive Gothic cathedral with striking black-and-white marble, intricate mosaics, and artworks by masters such as Donatello and Michelangelo.
If you have some free time Siena:
- Wander through Siena’s narrow medieval streets and admire its historic palaces and towers.
- Visit the Museo dell’Opera Metropolitana for a deeper insight into Siena’s artistic heritage.
San Gimignano - Tuscany's medieval Manhattan
San Gimignano is often called Tuscany’s ‘Medieval Manhattan’ due to its impressive skyline of ancient towers. In medieval times, wealthy families competed to build the tallest towers as symbols of power and prestige.
Top sights in San Gimignano
- Piazza della Cisterna is the town’s main square, surrounded by medieval buildings and towers.
- Torre Grossa is the tallest tower in San Gimignano, and climbing it offers breathtaking views over the Tuscan countryside.
- The Collegiata di San Gimignano is a Romanesque collegiate church featuring beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments.
If you have some free time San Gimignano:
- Sample Vernaccia di San Gimignano, the town’s renowned white wine, in a local enoteca.
- Wander through its cobbled streets and browse artisan shops for ceramics and local products.
Montecatini - Elegant spa town
Montecatini Terme is one of Italy’s most famous spa towns, known for its elegant architecture and thermal waters that have attracted visitors since the 19th century.
Top sights in Montecatini
- Terme Tettuccio is a beautiful historic spa building where you can admire grand colonnades and fountains or enjoy the mineral-rich waters known for their healing properties.
- Montecatini Alto can be reached by funicular railway and offers panoramic views, quaint streets, and traditional restaurants in the old town.
If you have some free time Montecatini:
- Stroll along Viale Verdi, lined with elegant cafés and boutiques.
- Relax in one of the town’s peaceful parks and gardens.
Ready to explore Tuscany?
On our Tuscany tours, you'll have the knowledge of expert guides to give you greater insight to the top sights of this iconic region, as well as showing some hidden gems. Looking to uncover another part of country? Discover our incredible range of Italy holidays.
