Ah, Tuscany! A land where rolling vineyards give way to artistic epicenters and where history breathes life into every stone-paved street. As the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence stands as Tuscany's crown jewel, echoing tales of Medici grandeur and the genius of Michelangelo. But beyond its iconic city, Tuscany unfolds a myriad of secrets, from sun-soaked coasts to medieval hilltop towns. Whether you're an art aficionado, a wine enthusiast, or simply a lover of life's finest pleasures, our travel guide to Florence and Tuscany promises a journey that will captivate your soul. Dive in, and let's embark on this Tuscan odyssey together!
Italy, a boot-shaped peninsula extending into the Mediterranean Sea, is a nation defined by its rich tapestry of history, culture, and geography. This storied land is divided into 20 distinct regions, each showcasing its own unique identity, traditions, and flavors. One of these regions, the picturesque Tuscany, is further subdivided into 10 provinces, covering a vast landscape of rolling hills, vineyards, and historic cities.
- Florence (Firenze): As Tuscany's capital, Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance and is filled with iconic art and architecture, including Michelangelo’s "David" and the Florence Cathedral.
- Arezzo: Renowned for its goldsmiths and antique traders, this province is dotted with medieval towns and boasts frescoes by Piero della Francesca.
- Grosseto: Dominated by the scenic Maremma countryside, Grosseto is a blend of beautiful beaches and ancient Etruscan settlements.
- Livorno: A coastal province, Livorno is known for its port, seafood, and the coastal town of Castiglioncello.
- Lucca: Encircled by well-preserved Renaissance walls, Lucca has charming streets, squares, and is famous for its olive oil.
- Massa and Carrara: Located in the northernmost tip of Tuscany, this province is famous for the extraction of Carrara marble used by sculptors worldwide.
- Pisa: More than just the iconic Leaning Tower, Pisa boasts a rich maritime history and ancient maritime republic roots.
- Pistoia: A lesser-known gem, Pistoia is rich in Romanesque churches and a vibrant underground music scene.
- Prato: Celebrated for its textile industries, it's the blend of history and modernity, with medieval architecture and sprawling urban areas.
- Siena: Synonymous with the historic Palio horse race, Siena’s landscape is dotted with medieval towns, vineyards, and the Chianti wine region.
These provinces collectively make Tuscany a tapestry of art, nature, and history, enchanting travelers for centuries.
Florence (Firenze)
The province of Florence, situated in the heart of Tuscany, is a region renowned for its sweeping landscapes, historical landmarks, and a rich tapestry of art and culture. Spanning over vine-covered hills, picturesque valleys, and medieval villages, the province encapsulates the essence of Tuscany.
Its capital, Florence, is not just the administrative center but also the cultural heartbeat of the province. As the cradle of the Renaissance, the city of Florence boasts an unparalleled artistic heritage, with countless museums, churches, and palazzos housing some of the world's most iconic artworks and architectural marvels.
Best Of Florence Private Tour with Accademia
- Discover the greatest masterpieces of Renaissance Florence
- Admire the splendour of Brunelleschi's spectacular dome
- Gaze on Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise
- Come face to face with Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia
However, beyond the capital, the province is dotted with enchanting towns like Fiesole, with its ancient Roman amphitheater, and Certaldo, the birthplace of the medieval writer Boccaccio. The Chianti region, stretching within the province, is famed for its wine and offers a picturesque landscape of vineyards and olive groves. In essence, the province of Florence is a harmonious blend of urban sophistication, rooted in its capital, and the rustic charm of the Tuscan countryside.
Private Tuscany Day Tour with Wine and Cheese Tasting
A splendid Day Tour of Tuscany including Pecorino Tasting, Brunello Wine tasting, Pienza and Montepulciano visit.
Arezzo
The province of Arezzo, nestled in the southeastern part of Tuscany, is a realm of historical treasures, lush landscapes, and ancient traditions. It’s a place where verdant valleys meet time-worn medieval hamlets, presenting a scenic juxtaposition of nature and architecture.
The capital, also named Arezzo, is an old Etruscan city that carries in its cobblestone streets and squares the weight of millennia. Rich in history, it is home to remarkable sites like the Church of San Francesco, adorned with Piero della Francesca's iconic frescoes, and Piazza Grande, a sloping square encircled by medieval and Renaissance structures.
Cortona Private Guided Tour
Discover Cortona, the town made famous by the novel Under the Tuscan Sun, during a short walking tour. With a local guide, you’ll hear fun facts about the book and the film as you stroll through the Roman square of Piazza della Repubblica and see landmarks such as Teatro Signorelli and the Palazzo Comunale.
Beyond the capital, the province unfolds into a tapestry of picturesque towns, such as Cortona, perched on a hill with views stretching to Lake Trasimeno. Not to forget the Valdichiana and Valdarno valleys, fertile lands renowned for their agriculture and wine production. The province of Arezzo is a testament to Tuscany's enduring allure, where past and present coalesce in harmony.
The Art of Italian Aperitivo with a Cesarina in Arezzo
Your day in Arezzo is just winding down, the sun's about to set... It's time for an Aperitivo. This glamorous Italian tradition is loved all over the world, and this is your chance to learn how to prepare it for yourself, the perfect souvenir.
Grosseto
The province of Grosseto spans the southernmost part of Tuscany, a region defined by its verdant landscapes, pristine coastlines, and rich historical tapestry. Embraced by the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west, it boasts some of Italy's most beautiful beaches and maritime treasures, notably the Argentario peninsula and the Parco Naturale della Maremma.
Its capital, Grosseto, once a major Etruscan city, stands as a testament to the region's ancient roots and layered history. Encircled by well-preserved medieval walls, the city is dotted with historical landmarks, like the Romanesque-Gothic Grosseto Cathedral and the Medicean Walls, which transport visitors back to epochs long past.
Saturnia Thermal & Wellness from Civitavecchia Port
Soak away the stress of traveling at one of Italy’s most spectacular open-air hot springs with this trip to the Cascate del Mulino in the Tuscan countryside.
Beyond the city limits, the province is peppered with enchanting villages like Massa Marittima, with its stunning cathedral, and archaeological sites like Roselle, offering glimpses into Etruscan and Roman civilizations. Grosseto is a gateway to Tuscany's untouched beauty, where the serenity of nature blends seamlessly with millennia of human history.
Livorno
The province of Livorno is a coastal gem situated in the western part of Tuscany, bathed by the Ligurian and Tyrrhenian Seas. Famed for its picturesque coastlines, rocky cliffs, and deep blue waters, it serves as a haven for beachgoers, sailors, and marine enthusiasts.
Livorno, the province's capital, is a vibrant port city with a rich maritime heritage. Established in the late 16th century, it quickly rose to prominence as a major Mediterranean port under the Medici family. Today, the city retains much of its historic allure with its winding canals, reminiscent of Venice, and its bustling "Terrazza Mascagni," a waterfront promenade offering panoramic sea views. Livorno's rich cosmopolitan history is evident in its architecture, culinary scene, and the "Quartiere Venezia", a neighborhood crisscrossed with canals and old bridges.
Private Easy Cinque Terre & Pisa day trip from the port of Livorno
The Cinque Terre is loved for its dramatic coastal landscapes, but it’s not the easiest place for visitors with limited mobility to explore. This shore excursion cuts out the struggle, with private transport, a driver, and a well-planned itinerary that minimizes walking time and avoids challenging terrain. Portovenere, Corniglia, and Vernazza are highlights of the trip along with a quick visit to Pisa, home of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Moreover, the province is home to the Etruscan Coast, a stretch of shoreline dotted with ancient villages and famed for its superb wines. From its historical port capital to its sun-kissed beaches, the province of Livorno encapsulates a blend of Tuscan culture, history, and coastal charm.
Lucca
The province of Lucca nestles in the northwest corner of Tuscany, framed by the Apuan Alps and the Tyrrhenian Sea. This region is renowned for its undulating landscapes, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and medieval hamlets.
The capital, Lucca, often dubbed the "City of a Hundred Churches", is an enchanting city encased by well-preserved Renaissance walls that today serve as a popular pedestrian promenade. Within these walls, the city unfolds a tapestry of narrow cobbled streets, verdant squares, and historic edifices, including the iconic Lucca Cathedral and the ancient Torre Guinigi, which surprises visitors with an oak tree garden at its summit. Lucca's history is deeply rooted in music, being the birthplace of the famous composer Giacomo Puccini, and the city continues to celebrate its musical heritage with various festivals and events throughout the year.
Expert Led Introduction to Lucca Private Tour
Explore the quaint Tuscan city of Lucca on this introductory tour. Discuss its captivating and little known folklore, history, and legends
Beyond the capital, the province boasts the picturesque Garfagnana Valley, known for its verdant scenery, rustic cuisine, and traditional mountain villages. Whether you're walking atop Lucca's ancient walls or exploring its scenic countryside, the province offers a serene and culturally-rich Tuscan experience.
Massa and Carrara
The province of Massa and Carrara, located in the northernmost part of Tuscany, is a region steeped in history and natural beauty. Sandwiched between the glistening Ligurian Sea and the rugged Apuan Alps, it offers a unique blend of coastal, alpine, and cultural delights.
Carrara, the provincial capital, is world-renowned for its pristine white marble, which has been quarried from its mountains for centuries. This very marble has contributed to some of the most iconic sculptures and buildings, including Michelangelo's David. Carrara itself, beyond its marble legacy, boasts charming squares, medieval churches, and the impressive Ducal Palace. The province also encompasses Massa, a historic town with its own ducal palace, the Palazzo Ducale, and an impressive cathedral.
Carrara Marble Quarries Tour by Land Rover
Visit the marble quarries of Carrara on a half-day tour from Colonnata that highlights the marble industry in Italy. Learn how the marble was mined to build the Pantheon and Trajan's Column in ancient Rome, and how it was often used for sculpture during the Renaissance. See several active quarries, hear about ancient and modern mining processes, and enjoy insightful commentary from your guide.
The coastline of the region, known as the Versilia coast, is dotted with popular beach resorts, while the hinterland is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts, especially within the Apuan Alps Natural Park. Throughout Massa and Carrara, visitors can indulge in traditional dishes, often with an emphasis on chestnuts, mushrooms, and, of course, the lardo di Colonnata, a delectable cured pork fat aged in marble basins.
Pisa
The province of Pisa, situated in the heart of Tuscany, is an enchanting blend of history, art, and nature.
Its capital, Pisa, is globally recognized for the iconic Leaning Tower, which graces the city's Piazza dei Miracoli alongside the majestic Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistry. However, Pisa is not just about its leaning marvel. The city is replete with historical buildings, churches, and bridges across the River Arno, which bisects the city. The University of Pisa, established in the 14th century, has been a seat of academic excellence for centuries, fostering a lively student culture.
Expert Led Introduction to Pisa Private Tour
Explore the iconic city of Pisa on this introductory tour. Delve into its dramatic political history as a Tuscan republic, Medieval art center.
Beyond the capital, the province stretches from the Tyrrhenian Sea coast, with its sandy beaches and pine forests, to the gentle rolling hills of the hinterland, dotted with ancient villages, vast vineyards, and olive groves. Notable attractions include the thermal baths of San Giuliano Terme and the ancient town of Volterra, with its Etruscan roots and alabaster craftsmanship. The province of Pisa offers a journey through time, with each town and village narrating its own slice of Tuscany's rich tapestry of history and culture.
Pistoia
The province of Pistoia, nestled in the northern part of Tuscany, is a verdant expanse known for its scenic landscapes, historical richness, and cultural vibrancy.
Its capital, also named Pistoia, is often referred to as the "city of art" due to its impressive collection of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque landmarks. Pistoia's historic center is a delightful maze of narrow alleys, piazzas, and noteworthy buildings like the Cathedral of San Zeno and the octagonal Baptistery. The city is also renowned for its traditional nurseries and has been a leading European center for plant cultivation since the Renaissance. Annually, Pistoia hosts the "Pistoia Blues Festival," attracting music enthusiasts from all over.
Dining Experience at a local's Home in Pistoia with Show Cooking
Connecting with locals can be a challenge when visiting a new city. This home dining experience gives you the chance to be welcomed into a family home in Pistoia to learn about the city’s traditional cuisine and share a meal. Watch as your hosts prepare a number of classic Tuscan dishes, then gather around the table for a four-course meal featuring regional specialties served with area wines.
Beyond the capital, the province is dotted with charming towns, dense chestnut forests, and the Apennine Mountains' slopes, offering hiking and skiing opportunities. Montecatini Terme, a famous spa town in the province, has been a haven for wellness and relaxation since the Roman era. The province of Pistoia is a blend of natural beauty, historical treasures, and a lively contemporary cultural scene, making it a captivating Tuscan destination.
Montecatini Terme cycle and wine tasting visit
Slow your pace and take in the landscape surrounding Montecatini Terme on two wheels without the hassle of following a map with this guided bike tour through the countryside. Set off with your guide and pedal past quiet fields and woods to the medieval hill town of Montecarlo, with a stop to take in the town. Then head to a local winery for a tour and tasting or light lunch.
Prato
The province of Prato, situated in the heart of Tuscany, is characterized by its rich industrial heritage and vibrant cultural scene.
Its capital, also named Prato, stands as one of Tuscany's younger cities but is deeply steeped in history and art. Prato is renowned for its textile industry, which has thrived since the Middle Ages and continues to be a leading European hub for fabric production. The city's historic center is a testament to its illustrious past, with landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santo Stefano, which houses the renowned "Sacra Cintola" or Holy Belt, and the Emperor's Castle, a medieval fortress with commanding views of the city. The Museo del Tessuto or Textile Museum provides insight into Prato's longstanding association with textile craftsmanship.
Aside from its industrial and historical significance, Prato offers a range of culinary delights, including the famous "biscotto di Prato" or cantuccini, a type of almond biscuit often enjoyed with Vin Santo. Despite being one of the smaller Tuscan provinces, Prato's blend of history, industry, and culture renders it unique and well worth a visit.
Siena
The province of Siena, nestled in the southern part of Tuscany, is a tapestry of rolling hills, ancient vineyards, and historic towns and villages.
Its capital, Siena, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy's most enchanting cities. Recognized for its well-preserved medieval streets and architecture, Siena is home to the Piazza del Campo, one of Europe's greatest medieval squares and the site of the famous Palio horse race, a historic event that takes place twice a year. The Siena Cathedral, with its striking Gothic architecture, intricate floor mosaics, and a treasury of artworks, stands as a testament to the city's rich religious and artistic heritage.
Expert Led Introduction to Siena Private Tour
- Explore the highlights of this Tuscan city with a local expert
- See glorious Medieval churches, Renaissance palazzos
- Led by a local writer or art historian
- Explore the history, architecture, and distinct character of this idyllic city
Surrounding the capital, the province boasts the iconic landscapes of the Val d'Orcia, known for its picturesque farms, cypress-lined roads, and fortified hilltop towns. The area is also celebrated for its wine production, particularly the world-renowned Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti. From its artistic treasures to its culinary and vinicultural traditions, the province of Siena offers a quintessential Tuscan experience.
Small-Group Brunello di Montalcino Wine-Tasting Trip from Siena
Spend a day sipping one of Italy’s top wines, Brunello di Montalcino, on this day trip from Siena. Led by an expert guide, travel to the cellars to learn about the production process and meet the locals behind the delicious red wine. Then, pause at a family-run winery for an authentic Tuscan lunch before exploring the village of Montalcino and the abbey of Sant'Antimo. Stop for additional tastings along the way and conclude with transportation back to Siena. Group size is reserved to eight people for a more intimate experience.
Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Tuscany from Siena
There’s only one way to see Tuscany: from above. And the best way to do that is via hot air balloon. This 1-hour hot air balloon flight from Siena takes you above Tuscany to get a breathtaking view of the low-rolling hills, some clad in grape vines, others crowned by a rustic ancient villa. Ascend as high as 2,000 feet (609 meters) as you get a commanding view of the countryside and surrounding ancient villages and towns. Upon landing, enjoy a nice glass of sparkling wine to celebrate the amazing trip through the Tuscan heavens.
San Gimignano, Chianti, and Montalcino Day Trip from Siena
Visit San Gimignano and Montalcino on a small-group day trip from Siena, and discover medieval architecture, wine, and stunning views of Tuscany. With ample free time in each of the hill towns, the tour also includes lunch at a Montalcino winery plus samples of Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino wine.
As we draw our journey through Florence and Tuscany to a close, it becomes clear that the spirit of the Renaissance is still very much alive in this captivating corner of Italy. From the art-filled corridors of Florence's museums to the sun-kissed vineyards of the Tuscan countryside, every moment spent here feels like a step back in time. But beyond its historical allure, the warmth of its people, the richness of its cuisine, and the charm of its towns and villages make Tuscany more than just a destination—it's an emotion, an experience, and a memory that lingers long after the journey ends. As you pack your bags and cherish your memories, know that the beauty of Florence and Tuscany, much like the art that adorns its walls, remains timeless and waiting for your return.