4 unforgettable things to do in Tuscany, the heart of Italy

When traveling to Italy, there is one region you absolutely cannot miss: Tuscany. This enchanting area is renowned for its abundant and stunning landscapes, where rolling hills meet lush vineyards and olive groves. It is dotted with quaint villages that exude old-world charm and picturesque cities that are alive with art, history, and culture. When planning a trip into the heart of Italy, these are four things you shouldn’t miss.

Stay with local people

Particularly in the high season, accommodation in Tuscany is often overbooked. In order to avoid the spots which are very firmly on the beaten path, and to rather experience la dolce vita, why not choose to stay in the welcoming homes of friendly Tuscan locals? A lot of Italian farmers or people who work in the agricultural sector (producing home-grown favourites such as wine, wheat, fruits and olives) offer visitors from all over some space in their own houses, known as agriturismos.

While some farmers offer up to 50 beds, others prefer a smaller and more intimate, family-like atmosphere. They’re more than just a house with a spare room, however: nowadays, swimming pools, tennis facilities, and even horse riding activities are regular features of an agriturismo. Whatever you do, you should make sure that your chosen accommodation offers the chance to enjoy typical flavours from the local terroir!

Experience the wine region

Beyond its cities, Tuscany offers an array of scenic countryside vistas. The region is celebrated for its vineyards producing world-class wines such as Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Take a leisurely drive through the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can soak in the panoramic views of cypress-lined roads, golden wheat fields, and charming farmhouses.

Some of Italy’s finest wine is produced in the Chianti region, where many winemakers offer visitors the chance to taste and buy their products right at the source. Visiting Chianti provides a delightful deep-dive into the centuries-old tradition of winemaking.

For those seeking adventure, Chianti’s scenic countryside is perfect for cycling and hiking. Trails wind through vineyards, forests, and rolling hills, offering breathtaking views and the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path villages. The landscape changes with the seasons, from the vibrant greens of spring and summer to the warm hues of autumn, making it a year-round destination.

Enjoy cultural experiences in Florence

The capital of Tuscany, Florence captures the Renaissance through a rich offering of art, history, and culture. Known to locals as Firenze, this magnificent city is less-visited than Rome or Venice but boasts some of the world’s most important art museums. From the Uffizi Gallery, which displays works by famous artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, to the Accademia Gallery where you can admire Michelangelo’s David – a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture and a key part of the city’s artistic heritage.

Florence’s culinary scene is full of traditional dishes such as bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak), ribollita (a hearty bread and vegetable soup), and pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup). These Tuscan flavours can be savoured in its many trattorias and osterias. At lunchtime, try following the locals to visit the Mercato di San Lorenzo, and join them for antipasti and other specialities. The city is also famous for its gelato, with countless gelaterias offering a variety of flavours to indulge in; our favourite spot to visit is Vivoli, hailed by the locals as the best ice cream in the world, and just around the corner from the Basilica di Santa Croce.

One small but important piece of advice: when entering Florence, be sure to leave your car outside of the Old Town zone, unless you want to pay a €50 parking fee!

Explore the Tuscan coastline

For the sun worshippers among us, a visit to the beach is essential. Tuscany’s coastline is a breathtaking blend of natural beauty, charming seaside towns, and pristine beaches. This lesser-known side of Tuscany offers visitors a perfect escape into a world of sun, sea, and relaxation.

One of the highlights of Tuscany’s coast is the stunning region of the Maremma. Known for its unspoiled landscapes and wild beauty, it boasts sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and lush pine forests; its beautiful beaches include Marina di Alberese and Cala Violina, the latter named for the violin-like sound produced by walking on its fine sands. Nature lovers should pay a visit to the Maremma Regional Park, a protected area where hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding can all be enjoyed, alongside exploring the diverse array of flora and fauna.

Tuscany’s coastline is of course, a haven for food enthusiasts. Fresh seafood is a staple of its coastal flavors, and is best paired with wines from the nearby vineyards – altogether offering a culinary experience that perfectly complements the beauty of the Tuscan coast. And for those seeking experiences to satiate their souls rather than their stomachs, the coastal town of Venturina Terme is known for its natural hot springs and therapeutic baths in a serene setting.

Make it happen

Have we inspired you to traverse the rolling hills of Tuscany on your next trip? Speak to one of our local experts who will help craft your dream, tailor-made holiday to this magical part of Italy.