Tuscany, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Tuscany: A region where rolling hills, historic cities, and culinary delights come together to create an unforgettable Italian experience.

Tuscany, a region in central Italy, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. This enchanting destination offers a harmonious blend of rolling hills, medieval towns, and artistic treasures, making it a must-visit for any traveler. The region's capital, Florence, is a treasure trove of Renaissance art and architecture, including masterpieces by Michelangelo and Da Vinci. Venture beyond the bustling city to discover the serene countryside dotted with vineyards and olive groves. The Chianti region is famous for its wine production, and visitors can enjoy tours and tastings at local wineries. The medieval town of Siena, with its stunning cathedral and the historic Palio horse race, provides a glimpse into Tuscany's storied past. Tuscany is also known for its culinary delights. Indulge in traditional dishes like ribollita, pappardelle al cinghiale, and the region's signature pecorino cheese. Pair these with a glass of local Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino for an authentic Tuscan experience. Whether you're exploring ancient Etruscan ruins, relaxing in thermal baths, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, Tuscany promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italy.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tuscany.

Visit in late spring or early autumn to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
Rent a car to explore the countryside and small towns at your own pace.
Book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Uffizi Gallery and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Try local delicacies at family-run trattorias for an authentic dining experience.
Stay in an agriturismo (farm stay) for a unique lodging experience and a closer connection to the local culture.
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.

Top City Travel Guides in Tuscany

The cities of Tuscany, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Florence

Siena

Pisa

Bologna

Assisi

Destinations in Tuscany

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Portofino

Emilia-Romagna Riviera

Explore Tuscany: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Tuscany

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Piazza del Campo

Experience the enchanting charm and historical significance of Piazza del Campo, a must-visit destination in the heart of Siena, Italy.

4.8

Leonardo Da Vinci Museum

Discover the genius of Leonardo Da Vinci at Florence's interactive museum, where art, science, and innovation come to life.

4.7

San Galgano Abbey

Explore the enchanting San Galgano Abbey, where history, architecture, and natural beauty converge in the heart of Tuscany.

4.7

Museo Leonardiano di Vinci

Discover the brilliance of Leonardo da Vinci in the charming Museo Leonardiano, a top art museum and tourist attraction in Vinci, Italy.

4.3

Best landmarks in Tuscany

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Tower of Pisa

Explore the Leaning Tower of Pisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at this architectural wonder in the heart of Tuscany.

4.7

Piazza del Duomo

Explore the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of Piazza del Duomo in Pisa, home to the iconic Leaning Tower and stunning architectural marvels.

4.7

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Explore the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, an architectural masterpiece in Florence, Italy, renowned for its stunning dome and artistic heritage.

4.8

Piazzale Michelangelo

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Florence at Piazzale Michelangelo, a stunning plaza offering panoramic views and iconic landmarks.

4.8

Best restaurants in Tuscany

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Ristorante Romantico il Paiolo

Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ristorante Romantico il Paiolo in Florence - where every dish tells a story.

4.5

I'Tuscani 2

Experience authentic Tuscan steak dishes at I'Tuscani 2 in Florence - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

4.6

Le Cappelle Medicee Restorante

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Le Cappelle Medicee in Florence—where traditional flavors meet modern dining.

4.6

Ristorante La Grotta Toscana

Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Ristorante La Grotta Toscana in Florence - where every meal is a celebration of Italy's rich culinary heritage.

4.4

Best bars in Tuscany

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Colle Bereto

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at Colle Bereto, Florence's beloved bar and restaurant offering delightful Italian cuisine.

4.0

Locale Firenze

Discover the elegance of Locale Firenze, a top-tier bar and restaurant offering exquisite Italian cuisine and crafted cocktails in the heart of Florence.

4.5

The Joshua Tree Pub

Discover The Joshua Tree Pub in Florence, where Irish charm meets vibrant sports culture in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.5

View on Art Rooftop Cocktail Bar

Discover the breathtaking views and exquisite cocktails at View on Art Rooftop Cocktail Bar in Florence, a must-visit for every tourist.

3.5

Best nightclubs in Tuscany

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Blanco Beach Bar

Discover the heart of Florence's nightlife at Blanco Beach Bar, where dance and music unite in an unforgettable experience.

3.5

Pink Street Club

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Florence at Pink Street Club, where cocktails and music create unforgettable memories.

3.7

Blue Velvet

Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Florence at Blue Velvet, a disco club where music and dance come alive in a vibrant atmosphere.

3.4

Jaguar Florence Club (Private Lounge)

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Florence at Jaguar Florence Club, the ultimate disco destination for dance lovers and partygoers.

3.6

Best shops in Tuscany

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Outlet Barberino

Explore Outlet Barberino: A Shopping Paradise in the Heart of Tuscany with Amazing Discounts and Dining Options.

4.3

Valdichiana Outlet Village

Explore Valdichiana Outlet Village for designer fashion at unbeatable prices in the heart of Tuscany. A shopping paradise awaits you!

4.3

The Mall Firenze

Experience luxury shopping at The Mall Firenze, where designer brands meet stunning Tuscan landscapes, all at unbeatable prices.

4.2

Tartan Vintage

Explore Tartan Vintage in Florence for exquisite vintage clothing, offering unique, high-end pieces that capture the charm of timeless fashion.

5.0

Explore Tuscany on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Tuscany, mapped for you.

Tuscany Essentials

Tuscany is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The main international airports are Galileo Galilei International Airport in Pisa and Amerigo Vespucci Airport in Florence. From these airports, you can easily reach other parts of Tuscany by train, bus, or car rental. High-speed trains connect Florence to major Italian cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice. Regional trains and buses provide extensive coverage throughout Tuscany, making it convenient to explore the region.
Public transportation in Tuscany is reliable and convenient. The regional train network, operated by Trenitalia, connects major cities and towns. For local travel within cities, buses are a common mode of transport. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available, but can be expensive. Renting a car is a popular option for those wishing to explore the countryside and smaller villages at their own pace. Be aware that many historic city centers have limited traffic zones (ZTL), where access is restricted to residents and permit holders.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases, especially in rural areas. ATMs are readily available in cities and towns. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Tuscany is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any popular tourist region, pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and on public transport. Be cautious in bustling markets, train stations, and tourist attractions. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep your belongings secure. Florence's Santa Maria Novella district and parts of Pisa near the train station are known for higher crime rates targeting tourists; exercise extra caution in these areas.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, medical services, and fire departments. Hospitals and clinics are available in major cities and towns. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies (Farmacia) are common and can provide assistance for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress stylishly and modestly. Italians appreciate good fashion sense. Avoid wearing beachwear away from the coast. Religion: Do respect local customs when visiting churches. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove hats. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake or a friendly 'Ciao' or 'Buongiorno.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don't rush through meals; Italians enjoy leisurely dining.
To experience Tuscany like a local, visit the small towns and villages such as San Gimignano, Montepulciano, and Pienza. Participate in local festivals and markets to immerse yourself in the culture. Rent a bike to explore the scenic countryside. Engage with locals; they are often hospitable and willing to share insights about their region. Try to learn a few basic Italian phrases; it can enhance your experience and interactions.

When is the best time to visit Tuscany?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Tuscany

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Tuscany. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-DER-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore
  [pehr fah-VOH-reh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [GRAHTS-ee-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusa
  [SKOO-zah]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [KOH-meh stahy]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [BEH-neh. eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [PAR-lee een-GLEH-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-PEE-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vor-RAY veh-DEH-reh eel meh-NOO, pehr fah-VOH-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non MAHN-joh KAR-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-LOO-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vor-RAY pah-GAH-reh, pehr fah-VOH-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-YOO-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vai VEE-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [KYAH-mah lah poh-lee-TSEE-ah]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [KYAH-mah oon doht-TOH-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee SOH-noh PER-soh]
- I'm illSono malato
  [SOH-noh mah-LAH-toh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vor-RAY kom-PRAH-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh SOH-loh guar-DAN-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [KWAN-toh KOH-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo costoso
  [eh TROH-poh koh-STOH-zoh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoy ahb-BAH-sah-reh eel PRET-soh]
- What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [keh OH-reh SOH-noh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh LOO-nah]
- Half past (10)Dieci e mezza
  [DEE-eh-chee eh MEH-zah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-TEE-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-REE-joh]
- EveningSera
  [SEH-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [YEH-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [OHJ-ee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-MAH-nee]
- 1Uno
  [OO-noh]
- 2Due
  [DOO-eh]
- 3Tre
  [TREH]
- 4Quattro
  [KWAHT-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [CHEEN-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [SEH-ee]
- 7Sette
  [SET-teh]
- 8Otto
  [OHT-toh]
- 9Nove
  [NOH-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [DEE-eh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dove c'è...?
  [DOH-veh cheh]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [KWAL eh leen-dee-REET-soh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoy mohs-TRAR-mee (SOOL-lah MAH-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [KWAN-doh PAH-sah eel PROH-ssee-mo (OW-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon bee-LYEHT-toh (per ....)]

History of Tuscany

Before the rise of Rome, Tuscany was home to the Etruscan civilization, which flourished between the 8th and 3rd centuries BCE. The Etruscans established city-states that were rich in culture, art, and trade. They left behind a legacy of intricate tombs, pottery, and jewelry, which can be explored in archaeological sites like Tarquinia and Cerveteri.
With the expansion of the Roman Republic, Tuscany was gradually integrated into the Roman Empire. The region became known as Etruria and saw the construction of roads, aqueducts, and cities. Florence, known as Florentia, and Lucca were established as Roman colonies. Roman influence is evident in the ruins of amphitheaters, baths, and villas scattered across Tuscany.
The fall of the Roman Empire led to a period of fragmentation and conflict in Tuscany. By the 11th century, powerful city-states like Florence, Siena, and Pisa began to emerge. These cities were often in conflict over territory and power but also thrived as centers of trade, art, and learning. The medieval architecture of walled towns and fortresses, such as San Gimignano and Monteriggioni, offers a glimpse into this turbulent era.
Tuscany is widely regarded as the birthplace of the Renaissance, a cultural movement that began in the 14th century and reached its peak in the 15th and 16th centuries. Florence was the epicenter of this intellectual and artistic revival, boasting figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Dante Alighieri. The Medici family, powerful patrons of the arts, played a significant role in fostering this creative explosion. Landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery, the Florence Cathedral, and the Palazzo Vecchio are testaments to this golden age.
In the 16th century, Tuscany became a grand duchy under the rule of the Medici family, later succeeded by the House of Lorraine. This period brought relative stability and prosperity to the region. The Grand Duchy fostered advancements in science, agriculture, and infrastructure. The region’s wine and olive oil industries flourished, and architectural marvels like the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens were developed.
The 19th century saw Tuscany play a crucial role in the unification of Italy. The region was a hotbed of revolutionary ideas and movements. In 1859, Tuscany voted to join the newly formed Kingdom of Italy, marking the end of centuries of regional rule. This period saw the modernization of Tuscany, with improvements in infrastructure, education, and industry.
During World War II, Tuscany was a significant battleground, suffering from bombings and battles as Allied forces advanced through Italy. The region faced hardship but also demonstrated resilience in rebuilding post-war. Today, Tuscany is a symbol of rebirth and cultural preservation, with its historic centers and landscapes meticulously restored and celebrated.
Today, Tuscany is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations, renowned for its cultural heritage, culinary excellence, and picturesque landscapes. The region continues to celebrate its rich history through festivals, museums, and preserved historic sites. From the rolling vineyards of Chianti to the artistic treasures of Florence and the serene beauty of the Val d’Orcia, modern Tuscany offers a harmonious blend of past and present.