Tuscany is a dream for so many people, and if you’re planning a trip, you’ll want to see more than just Florence. The region offers so much beauty, history, and delicious food that it’s easy to fill your days with wonderful experiences. I’ve traveled through Tuscany quite a bit, and I’ve learned it’s best to explore beyond the famous landmarks to truly appreciate its magic. This guide focuses on some truly special places that offer unique tastes of Tuscany.
Medieval Charm and Tower Views
Siena feels like stepping back in time. It’s a city that rivals Florence in its historical importance, with narrow streets and beautiful squares that make you feel like you’ve walked onto a movie set. The main square, Piazza del Campo, is amazing. If you can time your visit for the Palio, the famous horse race held there, it’s quite an event, though it gets very crowded. The Siena Cathedral is another must-see. Its marble work and frescoes are incredible, a real testament to Gothic art.
The city of Lucca is a true gem, completely surrounded by well-preserved Renaissance walls. Walking or biking on top of these walls is a fantastic experience; you get amazing views of the city below and the Tuscan countryside beyond. Inside the walls, Lucca is a maze of cobblestone streets lined with beautiful churches. San Michele in Foro is particularly striking. Climbing the Guinigi Tower, with its ancient oak trees growing from the top, offers a unique perspective that my daughter Lily really enjoyed pointing out.
San Gimignano is known as the “Medieval Manhattan” because of its distinctive skyline filled with medieval towers. It sits high on a hill and offers breathtaking views that stretch across the Tuscan countryside. Wandering through its narrow lanes, you can visit the Collegiate Church and see its fascinating frescoes. We also made sure to taste the local Vernaccia wine here, which you can only find in this area. It has a crisp, dry flavor that’s perfect on a warm afternoon.
Scenic Landscapes and Artistic Heritage
The Val d’Orcia is the postcard-perfect image of Tuscany many people have in mind. This UNESCO World Heritage site is all about rolling hills, roads lined with cypress trees, and charming little towns. We spent a lovely day exploring Pienza, a town famous for its Renaissance architecture and its Pecorino cheese. Sampling different varieties of the cheese was a highlight for us. Our visit to Montalcino was all about wine, tasting the famous Brunello.
Another town worth visiting is Arezzo, one of Tuscany’s oldest cities. It has a rich artistic heritage, most notably the fresco cycle by Piero della Francesca in the Basilica of San Francesco, which is considered a masterpiece. The monthly antiques fair held in Piazza Grande is quite something, attracting collectors from all over. Walking through the historic center, you can still see Roman ruins and medieval towers, giving you a sense of the town’s long history.
Montepulciano is a beautiful town built on a ridge. It’s known for its Renaissance palaces and squares. Its main street, Corso, leads you to the impressive Piazza Grande. For wine lovers, this is a key spot to visit. We went into one of the historic wine cellars built beneath the palaces for a tasting of the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. The taste was deep and complex, a real treat. The nearby thermal springs of Chianciano Terme also offer a relaxing way to spend an afternoon.
Cortona gained a lot of fame from the book and film “Under the Tuscan Sun,” and it truly lives up to its reputation as a charming hilltop town. The views from Cortona over the Valdichiana are stunning. You can really feel the Etruscan heritage in the town’s architecture and museums, like the MAEC. Walking its steep, winding streets can be a bit of a workout, but it’s incredibly rewarding. We visited the Santa Margherita Sanctuary, which is a beautiful and peaceful spot.
Coastal Breezes and Island Escapes
Does Tuscany have nice beaches?
While Tuscany is famous for its rolling hills and historic cities, it also offers beautiful beaches along the Tyrrhenian Sea that are perfect for a relaxing day. You can find a variety of coastal experiences here.
The Versilia Coast is a popular area. Forte dei Marmi is an upscale resort town with lovely sandy beaches and a lively atmosphere. Nearby, Viareggio is known for its long promenade, art nouveau buildings, and beaches that are great for families.
The Etruscan Coast offers a different kind of beauty. Castiglioncello provides rocky coves and clear waters, making it ideal for snorkelling and diving amongst beautiful scenery. Cecina features a mix of sandy and pebbly beaches, often backed by fragrant pine forests, providing a perfect natural setting.
For a more rugged and natural experience, the Maremma Coast is ideal. Castiglione della Pescaia is a medieval town with pristine beaches and exceptionally clear waters. For a truly unique experience, seek out Cala Violina, a secluded beach famous for the unique musical sound its sand makes when you walk on it.
Don’t forget about Elba Island, just off the coast. Spiaggia di Cavoli is a beautiful spot with fine sand and turquoise waters that my husband Michael loved taking photos of. Fetovaia offers a more secluded crescent-shaped beach with golden sand and shallow waters, which was perfect for the kids to splash around in safely.
A Life of Tuscan Beauty
Living in Tuscany offers a life that feels both peaceful and rich with culture. The landscapes are just incredible, with vineyards and olive groves stretching across the hills. You have access to world-class art and history in cities like Florence, Siena, and Pisa. The food culture here is celebrated, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and exceptional wine.
The climate is generally mild, and there’s a strong sense of community in the smaller towns. It’s a place where you can slow down, enjoy the simple things, and still be surrounded by beauty and cultural experiences. Even on our short family trips, I find myself daydreaming about a slower pace of life. It’s a unique blend of natural beauty and deep history that’s hard to find elsewhere. I think 2026 could be a wonderful year for anyone looking to experience this unique part of Italy.
I hope this guide helps you plan your own adventure through Tuscany. The regions outside of Florence hold so many treasures, and I encourage you to explore them. Safe travels, and enjoy all the beauty Tuscany has to offer.