Ah, Tuscany, Italy’s love letter to the world. It’s the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and language, producing some of the finest wines.
Tuscany’s rolling hills, peppered with vineyards and intriguing Medieval towns, make it so dreamy.
Then, you have all the history and art museums you can think of in the flourishing Tuscan cities, from Florence to Pisa.
So, what’s not to like? The only trouble you might have is figuring out what to do in a place bubbling over with sights and attractions.
Enter this list of the best things to do in Tuscany—you’re welcome.
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Top 11 Tuscany Activities & Attractions
Tuscany is truly a haven for the senses, and the following things to do will give you a taste of just that.
1. Go Museum Hopping in Florence
Florence is a paradise for history buffs, with museums and galleries pretty much around every corner.
So, it makes sense to go museum-hopping in the birthplace of the Renaissance period.
While it may seem easy to simply jot down a few museums into your itinerary, Italian attractions are not well marked.
Your best bet is to go for guided tours with knowledgeable locals leading the way.
Otherwise, make sure you book your tickets to these sites well in advance, as they’re very popular.
This skip-the-line Uffizi Gallery ticket is an excellent choice to see Italy’s greatest art treasures, and masterpieces by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Giotto.
Then, opt for a guided tour of the Cathedral, Duomo Museum, and Baptistery, all key religious monuments at Duomo Square in Florence.
Finally, explore the secret rooms of the Medici Family with this skip-the-line entry to Palazzo Vecchio. It’s a fascinating place filled with masterpieces by celebrated artists of the Renaissance.
2. Snap a Photo at the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Corny? Yes. A must-do? A Thousand times, yes!
No matter how many people have posed next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it will always be a must-do when in Tuscany.
It’s one of those things you can tick off a bucket list and show off to your friends and family.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is especially beautiful at sunset and you can safely climb up the tower for some breathtaking views.
Make sure you grab an entry ticket quickly to secure your visit.
3. Explore San Quirico d’Orcia, a Small Charming Town
With picturesque landscapes worthy of an artist’s palette, San Quirico d’Orcia is a hidden gem you have to explore.
This quintessential, small town is home to only 2,500 inhabitants with narrow, cobblestone streets and ancient-looking buildings.
If you’re in Pienza or Montalcino, you can take a lovely day trip and spend a few hours in San Quirico.
While there isn’t as much to see and do, the peaceful countryside atmosphere is what adds to its charm.
Stroll along Via Dante Alighieri, a vibrant street lined with small shops and cute cafes.
Also, take some time to visit the stunning manicured garden at the Collegiate Church of San Quirico d’Orcia.
4. See the Ancient Town of Cortona
Cortona is a picturesque hilltop town straight out of a post card near the iconic city of Arezzo.
Seeping with history and rich culture, this idyllic town is a time capsule of the Etruscan period, with many original remains still intact.
This is where I suggest indulging in authentic Tuscan cuisine, with dishes like Pasta al Fumo, Tuscan ribollita, and Cantucci Toscani.
Better yet, learn how to make some of these dishes from scratch with a Cortona cooking class.
Grab your camera and visit the Basilica of Saint Margaret of Cortona. It’s unbelievably majestic inside, with intricate frescoes, chandeliers, and decorations.
Don’t miss the Accademia Etrusca museum as well, since it’s filled with historical and geological artifacts.
5. Sample Regional Wine in the Medieval Town of Radda
Radda in Chianti is a small yet lively town that offers an authentic Tuscan experience topped with some of the finest wineries.
Historic architecture, alluring landscapes, and world-class wineries, this Medieval hilltop town has it all.
It presents a much-needed respite from the bustling cities of Siena and Florence.
Radda is also an ideal base for exploring the Tuscan wine country, located between Gaiole and Castellina in Chianti. Wander through its cobblestone streets dotted with bars, restaurants, and shops.
And for the highlight, visit wineries like Castello di Radda or Fattoria di Montemaggio for a taste of this region’s iconic wines.
6. Explore Tuscan Hill Towns From Montepulciano
Montepulciano is yet another stunning medieval hilltop town surrounded by lush vineyards.
Famous for its Vino Nobile red wine, there’s more to this town than winemaking.
As a foodie haven, Montepulciano produces some of the tastiest cheeses, pasta, honey, and pork-based dishes.
Who wouldn’t want delicious food and wine while enjoying unmissable views and jaw-dropping sights?
Then, Montepulciano is also the ideal base to explore even more hilltop towns such as Pienza, San Gimignano, and Cortona.
7. Stop By a Few Wineries
I’m not done blabbering about Tuscany’s wines just yet.
And with good reason to boast, such as producing some of the most famous wines and hosting world-class wineries, it’s easy to see why visiting its wineries is on here.
These quality and distinct flavors are a result of the region’s temperate climate, meticulous winemaking traditions, and fertile landscapes.
Organized tours are the best way to explore the top local wineries, such as this Chianti wineries tour from Florence.
You also can’t go wrong with this small-group wine-tasting experience in the Tuscan countryside.
8. See Cinque Terre’s Centuries-old Seaside Villages
Cinque Terre is a string of five towns stretching along the rugged Italian Riviera coast.
Each seaside village is quaint, with colorful buildings built up against rocky hills overlooking the vast ocean.
Since these are fishing villages, expect to munch on plenty of seafood specialties, with fresh anchovies as a staple. You’ll see many locals eating Fritto Misto, paper cones filled with fried fish.
Okay, back to Cinque Terre. Did you know you can hike through all its villages in about half a day? This would be up there with the most unique and pleasant hikes you’ve ever experienced.
Alternatively, this Cinque Terre day trip lets you see each village, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, with an optional hike.
9. Collect Some Keepsakes at Volterra
Ready to fill your bags with some Tuscan souvenirs?
Head to the walled town of Volterra, a place that is fit for a fairytale.
Why visit here if you can get memorabilia in bigger cities? Well, not only was Volterra one of the main city-states of ancient Etruria during the Middle Ages, but it also has a centuries-long history of manufacturing alabaster.
It’s a beacon of Italian craftsmanship, where you’ll find alabaster shops and other small boutiques lining its medieval streets.
Besides alabaster, you can browse for street art, olive oil, truffles, cutting boards, and home goods carved from olive wood.
10. Relax on the Sun-Kissed Shores of Elba
Step into the laid-back island lifestyle by visiting the gorgeous Elba Island.
As Tuscany’s biggest island, it’s surrounded by a bright blue sea with an interesting history.
It was once Napoleon’s place of exile in 1814 and 1815, but today, it’s a sought-after gem for its balmy beaches and weathered castles.
You can get to the island via a ferry ride from Piombino which reaches the port of Portoferraio between 15 to 60 minutes.
11. Admire the Medieval Towers of San Gimignano
While Tuscany has no shortage of walled medieval hill towns, San Gimignano stands out for its bold architecture and unmissable vistas of the Tuscan countryside.
It’s the one town I suggest you visit if you’re short on time, thanks to its close proximity to Florence.
It’s reached in about an hour from the city, making for a fabulous day trip.
San Gimignano is encircled by a 13th-century wall with medieval architecture and a beautiful 12th-century church, the Duomo di San Gimignano.
Explore its historic center dotted with masterfully crafted buildings and skyline towers, including the Devil’s Tower and the Twin Towers of the Ardinghelli.
What to Do in Tuscany, Italy – FAQs
I’ve quickly answered a few common questions related to things to do in Tuscany, in case you need to know.
What Is the Prettiest Town in Tuscany to Visit?
Hmmm, it’s hard to say. There are just too many appealing towns in Tuscany. However, many say that Cortona is the prettiest, and I can understand why.
Is Tuscany Cheap or Expensive?
If I’m honest, visiting Tuscany can be quite expensive.
You’ll pretty much burn through your euros on a Tuscany trip between accommodation, food, and sightseeing. But it’s worth every penny.
How Many Days Is Enough in Tuscany?
Well, this heavily depends on what you want to see and do. Two or three days is enough for Florence and a bit of the Chianti region, but you might want to discover a whole lot more.
In that case, consider at least five days to see Florence, visit Pisa or San Gimignano and Volterra, and explore the Chianti countryside and Val d’Orcia.
Top Tuscany Attractions & Activities Wrapped Up
And that’s it, folks! Which one of these fun activities will you add to your Tuscany itinerary?
While it is easier to stick to your comfort zone, I suggest sticking your neck out and trying new things, if not all of my suggestions above.
You’re about to be under the Tuscan sun, after all, so enjoy every moment of it.
Psst! When you’re done here, why not take a look at some of the Tuscan towns mentioned on this list? You won’t regret it.