Tuscany is not a hidden gem but it’s one of the most popular destinations to visit around the world, welcoming millions of tourists each year. It’s packed with rolling hills, historic cities, and artistic treasures, whether you’re trying a glass of Chianti in a sun-kissed vineyard or marveling at Renaissance masterpieces, Tuscany offers an enchanting blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.
In Italy, you can discover for stunning places like the Amalfi Coast, but Tuscany is the true pot of iconic landmarks. In this article, we’ll explore the best things to do in Tuscany, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems and more.
Hike to Siena
Walking holidays are getting a lot more popular today, and for many good reasons. It’s one of the best ways to explore an area while immersing in the local culture as well as challenging yourself.
Start your journey at the town of Volterra and embark on an iconic 5 days hike through Tuscany, a path that will let you enjoy ancient towns like San Gimignano, and Colle di Val D’Elsa as well as enjoy the breathtaking views of the vineyards and olive gardens.
After that, you’ll arrive at Siena, a gothic town with a lot of history. Your first step should be Siena’s Piazza del Campo, a shell-shaped square where the Palio horse race takes place twice a year.
Next, you should admire the intricate marble facade of Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena), which is adorned with intricate marble carvings. Make sure to climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.
Explore Florence
Florence is the heart of Tuscany, packed with rich history and artistic legacy. The ancient city is the birthplace of Dante, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, and is a living museum.
Make sure you wander through the Uffizi Gallery, where Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and other timeless works await.
Next, you can head to the iconic Florence Cathedral (Duomo) for panoramic city views, and marvel at the intricate facade and the iconic dome. Make sure to take a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge spanning the Arno River and is lined with jewelry shops.
Unwind in the Tuscan Countryside
If you want to truly immerse yourself in Italian culture, there’s no better way than heading to the Tuscan countryside. It’s the best place to unwind from the busy daily life and the stress from work.
So, start by renting a villa in the Val d’Orcia or the Chianti hills and cycle through sunflower fields or take leisurely walks.
Nowadays, you can book whole experiences like the walking holiday from Valtorre to Siena using tour operators, like Orbis Ways, that will take care of all the planning for you, making it a lot easier for people that’s busy most of the year.
Savor Tuscan Cuisine
You can’t visit this country without trying the world-known and popular Tuscan cuisine, start by indulging in ribollita (a hearty vegetable soup), pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup), and bistecca alla fiorentina (Tuscan-style steak).
But that’s not the only thing you can find here, make sure to pair your meal with a glass of Brunello di Montalcino or Vernaccia di San Gimignano.