Considering a trip to Tuscany? In this article, we’ve rounded up the very best things to do in Tuscany, to help you plan the perfect itinerary.
Tuscany is one of the most visited regions in Italy. And no wonder, with its cities steeped in history and art, charming hill towns, and picture-postcard countryside. And of course, the mouthwatering cuisine and world-class wines.
From climbing up towers for panoramic views to walking medieval walls, and from staying in an agriturismo amidst olive groves and vineyards to sampling local pasta, cheese, and wine, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to exciting experiences in Tuscany.
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Florence, the regional capital, is renowned as the Cradle of the Renaissance. The art you’ll see here will leave you awe-struck. But Tuscany’s smaller cities and towns, like Siena and Lucca, are also well worth the time you give them.
And of course, spending some time in the Tuscan countryside is an absolute must. It’s here you’ll find that special Tuscan ambience that will have you returning again and again.
Ready to start crafting your Tuscany itinerary? Let’s get started discovering the best things to do in Tuscany!
The Best Things to Do in Tuscany
1. Take in the Views from the Duomo di Firenze
Taking in the jaw-dropping views from the dome of the Florence Cathedral is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Tuscany.
The egg-shaped brick dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, was built without scaffolding, an astonishing feat in the 15th century.
At the time it was completed, the Duomo di Firenze was the largest dome in the world.
There is no elevator, so you’ll have to climb 463 steps to enjoy the views and to see Giorgio Vasari’s Last Judgment frescoes (on the inside ceiling of the dome) up close.
Since it wasn’t meant to be a public walkway, the corridor you’ll be walking up is narrow: it was used by workers that needed access to the dome to maintain it. So if you are claustrophobic, the climb may not be for you.
At the base of the cupola, there’s a walkway from which you can admire Vasari’s frescoes. Then you’ll climb further, inside the double-shelled dome, to eventually come out onto the lantern, the viewing area.
From here, enjoy the well-earned views over the rooftops of Florence in every direction.
A reservation is required in order to climb the cupola of the Duomo di Firenze.
When you purchase the Brunelleschi Pass (the combination ticket for the Duomo complex), you will be asked to pick your time slot for the dome climb. You can also buy your tickets online at GetYourGuide.
If you prefer, or if time slots for your preferred date are sold out, you can also do the dome climb as part of a guided tour.
This highly-rated tour includes not only the dome climb but also a guided tour of the baptistery, with its ornate frescoed ceiling, and the cathedral museum, which holds many treasures, including Ghiberti’s original duomo doors.
Check price and availability for this guided dome climb and Florence Duomo tour now!
2. Admire some of the Best Art on the Planet in Florence: David + The Uffizi
As the Cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is home to a plethora of artistic treasures, and seeing some of this art in person is definitely one of the best things to do in Tuscany.
Art lovers will be enticed by the many museums and churches that hold Florence’s art, but even visitors with just a casual interest in art should plan to see Michelangelo’s David and the masterpieces in the Galleria degli Uffizi.
The statue of David was created by Michelangelo between 1501 and 1504, from a block of Carrara marble. He started carving it when he was just 26!
The 17-foot statue was originally meant for the roof of the Florence Cathedral, but it was too heavy to hoist, so it was placed at the entrance to the Palazzo Vecchio.
Today the original statue is in the Accademia Gallery.
David is one of the most popular attractions in Florence, so buy tickets at the official website ahead of your trip, or get skip-the-line tickets at GetYourGuide. You can also visit on a guided tour for a more immersive experience.
At the Uffizi Galleries, you will be treated to a veritable feast of superb art, from Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and La Primavera to Michelangelo’s Doni Tondo, Caravaggio’s Medusa, Raphael’s Madonna of the Goldfinch, and da Vinci’s Annunciation.
Unless you are an art or art history expert, you’ll get a lot more out of your visit on a guided tour: this highly-rated small group tour is limited to 9 participants and lasts a little under 2 hours.
Check pricing and availability on this guided tour of the Uffizi now!
3. See the Sun Set Over Florence
As Tuscany’s crown jewel, Florence has so much to offer visitors! The historic center, crammed with sights, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you are planning your first trip to the Tuscan capital, we’ve compiled a list of the top things to do in Florence to help you craft your itinerary.
One of our most enduring memories from our first visit to Florence is watching the sun set over the city. The experience is definitely a must on any Tuscany bucket list! And it’s free!
Piazzale Michelangelo is the popular place to go to watch the sunset in Florence. It’s likely to be super crowded, but the atmosphere is electric.
If you enjoy the crowds, the vendors, and the lively atmosphere, Piazzale Michelangelo is definitely the place to be for sunset.
But for a more serene experience, walk further up the hill to the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte!
The lovely Romanesque church has a photo-worthy facade, and if you arrive at the time of the evening service, you can hear the Gregorian chanting.
From the grounds, you have magnificent views over the city and the Arno River.
Grab a good spot, and sigh in bliss as the sun goes down over the orange rooftops of Florence. Stay as the purple dusk settles in, and the lights of the city come on.
4. Drive the Val d’Orcia
While Tuscan cities are exhilarating, you have to visit the countryside to find la dolce vita in Tuscany.
One of the most scenic areas in Tuscany is the Val d’Orcia, a landscape of gently rolling hills, marching cypresses, vineyards, and olive groves. It’s the Tuscany of picture postcards!
The Val d’Orcia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Driving through this picturesque valley is one of the best things to do in Tuscany. There are many small hilltop towns to visit, historic abbeys to tour, and delicious local food and wine to sample.
One of the most photographed spots in Italy is the Chapel of the Madonna di Vitaleta, a must-stop spot in the Val d’Orcia.
We have an article with a detailed guide to driving the Val d’Orcia in one day.
Of course, if you have the time, you will enjoy savoring the slow pace of life here on a longer visit. Montalcino and Montepulciano are known for their wines!
The Val d’Orcia is easy to access for the day from Siena or Florence. Renting a car and driving offers the maximum flexibility: you’ll be able to stop at viewpoints along the way.
In the spring, you may see fields of red poppies, and in the summer, fields of bright yellow sunflowers. Even in the fall, after harvest is done, the bare tan landscape is beautiful.
If you do not wish to drive, but still want some control over your itinerary, you can hire a car and driver for the day from Siena or Florence. It’s a splurge worth considering if you enjoy landscape photography.
Or you can join a small group guided tour from Florence (or from Siena to Pienza and Montepulciano).
Check pricing and availability for this highly-rated Val d’Orcia tour from Florence now!
5. Savor the Ambience of Medieval Siena
Siena is one of the most charming towns in Tuscany. Its compact historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and perfect for exploring in one active day.
The Duomo di Siena, with its black-and-white striped campanile, is simply magnificent.
The gorgeous facade of the cathedral features numerous sculptures and mosaics. The interior contains many works of art, but perhaps the most unique feature is the painted marble floor.
Be sure to visit the Piccolomini Library in the cathedral. It is home to a stunning cycle of frescoes by Pinturicchio. Every inch of the walls and ceiling is painted!
Also in the duomo complex, the Museo dell’Opera holds many of the treasures originally in the cathedral, including the rose window.
Extending from the cathedral is the Facciatone, built as part of a planned expansion that never came to fruition. Today you can climb to the top for fabulous views over Siena and the surrounding countryside.
Siena’s Piazza del Campo is a huge shell-shaped plaza that actually hosts a traditional horse race! The Palio di Siena is held twice each year, generally once each in July and August.
The plaza is also home to the tall and skinny Torre del Mangia, which you can climb for panoramic 360-degree views.
Other than enjoying the major sights, you’ll want to spend some time just wandering the streets of the medieval town to soak in the ambience.
Visiting Siena should definitely be high on your list of things to do in Tuscany! If you do not have a car, you can take the bus from Florence to Siena, or you can join a guided tour from Florence that combines Siena with San Gimignano.
6. Ride a Vespa through the Tuscany Countryside
Riding a Vespa through the countryside is one of the most fun things to do in Tuscany!
A word of caution, though, before you embark on your Tuscany scooter adventure: the country roads can be narrow and winding, with blind curves, such that even experienced riders have to be careful.
There are lots of rural routes from which to pick, and feeling the sun on your face and the wind in your hair as you ride your cute Vespa is an unbeatable Tuscany experience.
The scenic Chianti region, for example, is within easy riding distance of Florence, or you can explore the hills around Fiesole, the small hilltop hamlet very close to Florence.
For couples, a Tuscan Vespa ride is a romantic way to spend a day! Be sure to stop fora leisurely lunch in a vineyard or at a farm.
If you prefer an escorted experience, you can join a guided Vespa tour from Florence.
This popular tour transports you by van from Florence to the countryside, where you can cruise among the vineyards and olive groves, soaking in the ambience.
Check availability and pricing on this Vespa tour of Tuscany now!
7. Admire the Towers of San Gimignano
San Gimignano is a lovely little medieval village about an hour south of Florence.
Many travelers visit San Gimignano just for the day, but if you have a couple of days, you can enjoy a laid-back Tuscan getaway here.
Known as Tuscany’s Manhattan, the hilltop village is famed for its 13th century towers that were built by the wealthy to show their affluence.
Now, there are only 14 towers left, and there is only one that can be visited, Torre Grossa.
Climbing the 54 meters to the top of the Torre Grossa for the views is one of the highlights in the village, but there are plenty of other things to do in San Gimignano too.
The 12th-century Duomo di San Gimignano is worth visiting for the beautiful frescoes by famous Tuscan artists like Taddeo di Bartolo.
Visit Casa Campatelli, an interesting house museum decorated to mimic the way a noble family would live back in medieval times.
The most recognizable square in San Gimignano is the Piazza della Sisterna, recognized by the central well.
This area of Tuscany is well known for its Vernaccio white wines, which makes for a great excuse to enjoy a long evening over pizza and wine at one of the charming restaurants in town.
While there are enchanting hotels in the village itself, for a truly Tuscan experience, stay at one of the hilltop farmhouses outside the village for views over the town.
Agriturismo Il Casolare Di Bucciano is a lovely place to stay with wooden beams in the ceiling and stone walls. The views of the little hilltop where San Gimignano elegantly sits, surrounded by vines, are spectacular.
Fall and spring are wonderful times of the year to visit San Gimignano: the weather is mild and days are sunny.
During the harvest season, usually between August and October, visit one of the surrounding vineyards to enjoy the grape harvest.
Suggested by Linn of Brainy Backpackers
8. Tour a Tuscan Castle or a Medieval Abbey
The Tuscan countryside is dotted with well-preserved castles and medieval abbeys, and visiting some of them is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Tuscany, especially if you enjoy history, art, and architecture.
For a super special experience, you can even stay in a Tuscan castle!
Poppi Castle, about an hour’s drive east of Florence, is in wonderful shape, although it was built several centuries ago. There is a fee to enter, but you can tour the frescoed chapel, the ballroom, the dungeon, and more.
The Castello di Malaspina is a stunning complex, with four towers and defensive walls. The structure was originally a fortress, but a Renaissance palace was added later. You can take a guided tour of the castle for a fee. You can also stay here!
Castello Malaspina is located near the coast, about a two-hour drive from Florence.
The Castello di Gabbiano is a fortified mansion with a beautiful setting in the Chianti area, in the midst of rolling hills, vineyards, and rows of cypresses. It is located about a 40-minute drive south from Florence, and you can book a stay here!
Check price and availability for a stay at the Castello di Gabbiano now!
You’ll find the historic Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore in the Crete Senesi south of Siena. It dates back to the 14th century and is home to many beautiful frescoes by Luca Signorelli and Sodoma.
The abbey makes olive oil, wine, and herbal products, which you can purchase at the shop.
The Abbazia di Sant’Antimo is a beautiful structure, set in the midst of olive groves and vineyards. Stay on after you tour the abbey to hear the monks do Gregorian chanting!
9. Walk the Walls of Lucca
Lucca is one of our favorite destinations in Tuscany. In a small package, the historic center of Lucca offers so many interesting things to see and do!
Walking Le Mura di Lucca, the walls of Lucca, is one of the best activities in Tuscany. The pathway on the walls is wide and intact, making it perfect for walking or biking.
Originally built to defend the town, Lucca’s walls were rebuilt as a perk for locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors.
About 4 km or 2.6 miles in length, the walk offers views down into the historic center of Lucca on one side and the Tuscan countryside on the other.
While in Lucca, wandering the picturesque historic center is a must.
Linger in the attractive Piazza Anfiteatro, with its arched periphery holding shops and eateries. Visit the Duomo di Lucca, and the gorgeous San Michele in Foro: the church is built where the Roman Forum once stood.
Climb to the top of the Torre Guinigi, which features mature trees on its roof. From the viewing area at the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lucca and the surrounding countryside.
Spring or fall is the perfect time to visit Lucca, to escape the crowds of summer. At these times, daytime temperatures are pleasant for wandering.
While you can visit Lucca for the day, it’s also a charming town for a longer stay, to soak in the ambience of Tuscany.
10. Climb the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa!
The Tuscan city of Pisa is most well-known for the iconic Leaning Tower, a world-renowned landmark located in the Field of Miracles.
The tower is the campanile of the Pisa Cathedral, and many visitors have fun striking poses holding up the tilted tower, but also be sure to climb up to the top for breathtaking views of the city.
In addition to the Leaning Tower, visit the magnificent Pisa Cathedral. The exterior is strikingly clad in green and cream marble, and the interior boasts many works of art.
The duomo complex in the Field of Miracles, which also includes the baptistery and the Camposanto Monumentale, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This modestly-priced guided tour is a great way to visit the monuments in the Field of Miracles, and you’ll get skip-the-line access to the Leaning Tower.
While in Pisa, consider immersing yourself in the food culture of an Italian cooking class, an entertaining experience.
You’ll shop at local markets to learn about the fresh ingredients used in Tuscan cooking. Then you’ll join in the preparation of a number of dishes and savor a delectable three-course lunch matched with a glass of Tuscan wine at the end.
Or join a food walking tour of Pisa, which will allow you to see the major sights in the company of a local guide, while also sampling the best of local cuisine, from Tuscan cured meats to rich soups and stews.
Check pricing and availability for this highly-rated Pisa walking and food tour now!
The best time to visit Pisa is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) season. The weather is pleasant, and the city will be less crowded at these times.
Suggested by Tanya of Travels & Treasures
11. Explore Montecatini Terme
The small town of Montecatini Terme is one of the famous spa towns in Italy. About 90 minutes by train from Bologna, it is the perfect place to spend a few days relaxing and exploring at any time of year.
The healing waters of Montecatini Terme have been popular for centuries. There are nine thermal spa centers offering spa treatments and cures that you can visit in town.
The most beautiful spa here is Tettucio Terme. Next to the Parco delle Terme, the spa is housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building, surrounded by landscaped gardens. You can sample the different thermal waters, some more pleasant than others.
Art lovers can visit the Montecatini Terme Contemporary Art Gallery in Viale Giuseppe Verdi. With yellow walls to show off the artwork, the gallery is home to the works of many contemporary artists, including a painting by Joan Miro and a sculpture by Claraz.
Across the street is the Teatro Verdi, which holds modern and classical concerts, and ballet and theatre performances throughout the year. The theatre was designed in a neoclassical style. It opened in 1868 and was named after Giuseppe Verdi, who was a frequent visitor to the town.
For a panoramic view over the town, take a ride on the red funicular up to Montecatini Alto. The village is on the hill above Montecatini Terme. Have a wander through the medieval streets and alleys or sit in the square for a coffee, a drink or some food.
The town is full of little boutiques and shops if you want to pick up some Italian fashion items or local delicacies like the sweet wafers “cialde di Montecatini.”
Suggested by Larch of The Silver Nomad
12. Soak in Other Hot Springs in Tuscany
Tuscany is known for its many hot springs, and a relaxing soak should definitely be on your list of things to do in Tuscany.
The Saturnia Hot Springs (Cascate del Mulino) are some of the most famous in Italy. Till a little while ago, they were still a hidden gem, but now, with photos splashed all over Instagram, expect crowds.
The thermal waters at Cascate del Mulino form a beautiful tiered cascade, and you’ll want to snap photos from the viewpoint along the road above the springs on you way to soak.
The waters here are rich in sulphur and other minerals so expect a strong odor. The cascade is free to enter. Bring a bathing suit and water shoes, and enjoy!
If you want to travel to thermal baths by train from Florence, try Rapolano Terme, located in the Crete Senesi. These baths aren’t a luxury destination by any means, but the simple baths are easy to access and enjoy without a car.
In the Val d’Orcia, the turquoise baths at the tiny hamlet of Bagno Vignoni make for a pleasant stop. While there are some free springs here, you can also soak at thermal baths in a couple of small hotels here.
13. Relax at the Beaches of Elba, One of Tuscany’s Seven islands
Tuscany is known for its rolling hills and pastoral landscapes, but did you know it also has beautiful beaches?
One of the most underrated things to do in Tuscany is to visit the wonderful beaches of Elba Island. Elba Island is located an hour by ferry from the port of Piombino and is part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park.
The main reason it is so worthwhile to visit Elba Island is its 100 beaches and coves. Its rocky and forested terrain preserves almost untouched natural landscapes.
The famous Fetovaia Beach, with fine golden sand and easily accessible on foot, is suitable for families with children.
Hidden coves such as Spiaggia del Seccione can be reached by descending a few hundred steps, and you will be rewarded by the tranquility.
From Chiessi Beach, which has pebbles, you can enjoy a breathtaking sunset with the outline of Corsica in the background.
A few meters from Pomonte Beach, on the seabed, there is a shipwreck to explore by snorkeling.
The island lends itself to being explored by moped or car, or walking around its perimeter and visiting a different beach each day.
While during the day you will enjoy swimming in a crystal clear sea, in the evening you can enjoy excellent Tuscan cuisine in the small restaurants of the island’s villages: Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro, and Marina di Campo.
The best months to visit one of Italy’s most beautiful islands are June and September, when you’ll find the beaches less crowded.
To reach Elba Island, take a ferry from Piombino to Portoferraio. Ferries leave about every hour.
Suggested by Lisa of Travel Connect Experience
14. Enjoy a panino at All’antico Vinaio in Florence!
It’s no secret that Tuscany is home to some of the best food and wine in the world.
However, when it comes to Florence’s foodie scene, one sandwich – or panino – stands out above all the rest.
In 1989, the Mazzanti family set up shop on Florence’s historic Via dei Neri and opened the doors to what would soon be one of the most famous sandwich shops in the world – All’antico Vinaio.
What started as a modest wine and sandwich shop was quickly transformed when Tommy Mazzanti joined the operation.
After his involvement in 2006, All’antico Vinaio became a landmark in Florence and a beacon to foodies everywhere. It even became the most reviewed establishment on Tripadvisor in the world in 2014.
Today, hungry travelers seeking out Italy’s most famous sandwich will be met with lines stretched around the block (although they can sometimes be avoided by showing up in between mealtimes).
Those who brave the hour-long wait times are rewarded with slices of schiacciata bread piled high with fresh ingredients like stracchino soft cheese, roasted suckling pig, cream of truffle, proscuitto, spicy aubergines, fior di latte mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.
Seating in this tiny paninoteca is all but nonexistent, so you’ll have to get your panino to go. To enjoy All’antico Vinaio the way it was intended, be sure to wash down your schiacciata with an ice-cold Peroni!
Suggested by Madison of Madison’s Footsteps
15. Taste Cheese at Podere il Casale in Pienza
Situated in the beautiful and iconic Val d’Orcia area in Tuscany not far from Montepulciano is the small village of Pienza, home of Podere il Casale, a working farm with goats and sheep that supply the milk for their remarkable cheeses.
The owners have spent decades refining and perfecting their regional cheeses.
The 600-year-old farmhouse property where the owners live includes an excellent restaurant that serves fresh homemade pasta, and uses honey, wine, extra virgin olive oil, saffron, and white truffles, all of which are produced on the farm.
But it’s the wonderful cheeses that people come from far and wide to enjoy.
Lunch and dinner are served al fresco on the terrace. Don’t be surprised if one of the peacocks that roam freely on the property visits you at your table!
Stop in on a sunny day and you’ll be seated under the shade of trees overlooking the valley, where a portion of the 10th-century pilgrimage road between Rome and Jerusalem can still be seen (and hiked if you like).
Before being seated, take a tour of the property and cheese-making facilities.
Depending on the time of year, twenty to thirty different cheeses are produced on-site, but the star of the show is Pecorino di Pienza, milder and less salty than Pecorino Romano.
For dinner you’ll need a reservation.
Suggested by Lori of Travlinmad
16. Go Truffle Hunting in Tuscany
Leave the museums and city tours behind by venturing into the Tuscan foothills to go truffle hunting in this region known for the world’s best truffles.
Truffle hunting is an unforgettable experience and a great way to experience Tuscany in a way that most travelers will miss.
Book a guided truffle hunt with a small group or a private tour to curate an experience perfect for a special trip or celebration.
On your truffle hunt, a knowledgeable guide will teach a crash course on truffle hunting. Most truffle hunters hunt with the assistance of a dog trained to sniff out these mushrooms!
With these specially bred and expertly trained canines, your hunt will be as simple as hiking along a path and waiting for the dog to catch a scent. When the dog alerts, your guide will show you how to dig a few inches under the soil and unearth a truffle.
Most truffle hunts in Tuscany conclude with a meal (and lots of pets and scratches for the canine guide!). You’ll never taste a truffle quite as delicious as one dug straight from the ground in Italy and prepared fresh!
If the hunt went well, you’ll probably even be able to take home a truffle or two as a souvenir.
The best times for hunting Tuscany’s best truffles are autumn and winter. However, summer is actually a better time to enjoy this activity. Why? Because winter white truffle season is so lucrative for mushroom hunters that many suspend tours during the winter months.
Summer hunts are usually productive and most guests return home with a particular type of black truffle that’s easily harvested in the summer.
Truffle hunting in Tuscany is a popular activity, so plan to make a reservation in advance. To enjoy your walk through the countryside, be sure and make room in your packing list for a pair of shoes comfortable for walking dirt paths.
San Miniato, in the Tuscan countryside, is a popular place to go truffle hunting. It is about an hour’s drive from Florence, or you can arrive by train.
Check pricing and availability for a small-group truffle hunting tour in San Miniato now!
Suggested by Lindsay of Wander Big
17. Take a Food Tour in Tuscany
Tuscany is renowned for its cuisine.
Some Tuscan foods you must try include pici pasta, which is a thicker version of spaghetti, schiacciata, a flat bread perfect for piling on toppings, and pecorino cheese made in Tuscany (pecorino is also made in a few other regions in Italy).
The region is known for ribollita, a hearty rustic soup made with vegetables and bread, and papardelle al ragu di cinghiale, broad pasta with boar stew. Steak lovers will want to try bistecca alla Florentina. Lamprodetto, a tripe dish, is often made into a sandwich.
A food tour is the perfect introduction to local foods and dishes, and in the company of a knowledgable guide, you’ll be able to try them in the best local eateries.
You’ll find food tours in pretty much any part of Tuscany you go, but if you plan to visit Florence, you have a number of popular options from which to choose!
This 3-hour private tour is led by a Florence insider and you will walk areas on both sides of the Arno River with multiple stops for tastings. Check price and availability now!
This small group walking food tour of Florence also lasts about 3 hours. You will visit the city center, the Oltrarno district, and the Sant’Ambrogio market area. Check price and availability now!
This small-group sunset food and wine tour lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes and includes tastings of artisanal cheeses and cured meats, pasta, ribollita soup, gelato, wine, and more. Check price and availability now!
18. Go Wine Tasting!
There are vineyards all over Tuscany, and you’ll be able to taste local wines no matter where you travel in Tuscany.
But possibly the quintessential wine tasting experience in Tuscany involves the Chianti wine producing area, just a short drive from Florence.
The historic Chianti district produces the Chianti Classico wine, distinguished by the black rooster emblem on the label. The wine produced in the areas just outside the historic district is called Chianti wine.
Chianti Classico is made up of 80% Sangiovese grapes, the red grape variety local to the area. The ruby red wine has a memorable taste and pairs well with pastas that have meaty sauces, or tomato-based dishes.
The Chianti Classico area lies between Florence and Siena, easy to access, and includes some of the well-known towns such as Greve in Chianti, Castellina in Chianti, and Radda in. Chianti.
While you can book your own wine tastings and visit independently if you have a car, you can also join a wine-tasting tour from Florence or Siena.
If you plan to go on your own, pick two or three wineries that offer food and wine tastings, and make reservations ahead of time.
If you want to enjoy the local food and wine without worrying about a designated driver, this popular and highly-rated full-day tour from Florence takes you to visit a Chianti wine estate and historic villa, and includes a traditional Tuscan lunch.
Check pricing and availability on this Chianti wine tour from Florence now!
Want to take a guided tour from Siena? This small-group half-day tour includes tastings at two wineries.
19. Visit Mercato Centrale in Florence
Florence conjures up visions of the magnificent cathedral and dome, the statue of David, Ponte Vecchio, and so much more.
But one place that shouldn’t be missed in this Tuscan city is the Mercato Centrale, arguably one of the best and most unique food markets in Italy.
Located only a short walk from the Piazza del Duomo, the iron and glass building dates to 1874 and is now home to skilled food artisans serving traditional Tuscan specialties, while other artisans put their own new spins on the local cuisine.
If it’s eaten in Tuscany, you’ll find it here, including local street foods.
Sit down to enjoy freshly made pasta or a fish or meat dish cooked to order. Several vendors make filling sandwiches using local cold meats and cheeses. All can be had with a glass, or two, of local wine.
The aroma of freshly baked bread will lead you to tempting delicious breads and pastries. And no Italian market would be complete without a gelato and espresso shop.
The Mercato Centrale has plenty of seating and is a great place for lunch, or just to relax with an espresso and pastry.
If you’re interested in taking a Tuscan-style cooking class, some of Florence’s best chefs run cooking classes and demonstrations here. You can check the Mercato’s website to see what’s happening and when.
Contributed by Lori of Italy Foodies
20. Take a Cooking Class in Florence
The region of Tuscany is famous for its gorgeous rolling hills, the incredible wine produced here, and of course the outstanding food.
Sure, all of Italy offers delicious cuisine, but once you set foot into Tuscany, the food just gets so much more incredible.
That’s why you must spend some of your vacation learning how to create a few of these culinary masterpieces in a cooking class. It’s the perfect memento: doesn’t take up any space in your suitcase, and is something you can use for the rest of your life.
Cooking classes are perfect for all travelers. They can be romantic for couples, and a blast for families with kids. All ages are welcome at most classes.
Classes are also typically offered with a wide variety of options. Want to focus solely on the art of hand-made pasta? Or learn to make a five-star dish? Prefer something a little more casual like pizza and gelato? Look around and find a class that fits your desires.
There are cooking classes all over Tuscany that you can book, but a convenient option is to take one right in Florence.
Book a class like this one in advance to ensure they don’t book up. This experience even includes a market tour where you can buy the ingredients for your dish as you shop with the locals, and learn more about the food culture of the region.
The market is closed on Sundays so if that’s important to you, book a different day of the week. But don’t worry, there are plenty of other amazing things to do on Sunday in Florence.
Check pricing and availability for this highly-rated cooking class in Florence now!
Suggested by Tori of Tori Pines Travels
21. Enjoy gelato!
According to some sources, gelato is said to have originated in Florence during the Italian Renaissance.
Cosimo Ruggieri is said to have created this delectable treat for Catherine de’ Medici. Bernardo Buontalenti, an architect, is credited with introducing egg cream into the recipe.
Whatever the reality behind its birth, there’s no arguing that you can find some of the best gelato on the planet in Florence.
If you are a connoisseur of gelato, you’ll want to seek out gelato artigianale, made the traditional way with fresh seasonal ingredients and natural flavors. Steer clear of the brightly-colored stuff you’ll see piled high in some shops.
We’ve sampled gelato at numerous gelaterie in Florence, and the places we visit again and again are La Carraia, Gelateria dei Neri (you’ll find lots of unusual flavor combinations here!), Perche’ No, and Vivoli.
In Siena, try La Vecchia Latteria (just a few flavors each day but everything is fresh and delicious!) or Gelateria il Masgalano, where you’ll find Sicilian flavors like cassata.
22. Enjoy wine and olive tastings on the Etruscan Coast
The Etruscan Coast is a hidden gem of Tuscany, and exploring its Wine and Olive Oil Road (La Strada del Vino) is a must-do activity in the region.
As you venture from the town of Bolgheri towards Castagneto, the road is flanked by majestic cypress trees—a national monument in its own right.
Meandering through fertile vineyards and olive groves, the route takes visitors past some of Tuscany’s best scenery. Not surprisingly, the road is particularly popular with cyclists.
There are countless opportunities to enjoy the bounty of this fertile coastal region that centers around the charming town of Bolgheri.
Sample wines from world famous wineries like Sassicaia and smaller, family-run vineyards like Chiappini.
Visit olive groves for tastings that showcase the region’s exceptional olive oils.
For an active vacation, rent a bicycle to explore the Strada del Vino as well as nearby beaches and neighboring hilltop villages.
The best time to enjoy Bolgheri’s Wine and Olive Oil Road is during the spring and autumn seasons, when the weather is mild and crowds are waning.
Consider making Bolgheri a base in Tuscany for a week or more, as there are many great destinations nearby for day trips.
When visiting Bolgheri, be sure to make reservations for tastings and restaurants in advance whenever possible. Unless visiting with a package tour, plan to provide your own transportation.
Suggested by Michelle of Intentional Travelers
Explore More!
If you are considering a visit to Italy, we have so many in-depth guides for you!
Our 7-day Tuscany itinerary is a day-by-day guide to a first visit to this scenic region of Italy. You can easily modify the itinerary if you are planning a shorter visit.
Read our article on the best things to do in Florence on your first ever visit to the iconic Tuscan city, and our article on spending one day in Siena, home to the Palio race.
We also have an article on all the exciting day trips from Florence you can do, if you are planning a longer stay in the Tuscan capital.
Our one day itinerary for the Val d’ Orcia is an easy guide to follow if you plan to explore on your own. We also suggest guided tours if you’d rather just sit back and enjoy the scenery.
Beyond Tuscany, read our article on how to spend two days in Venice, along with our guide to the best day trips from Venice. We also have articles on the top things to do in Rome, and the must-do day trips from Rome.
We also have a detailed article on 15 exciting 10-day Italy itinerary ideas!
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