How to Explore Tuscany in a Week with FREE Customizable Itineraries

Have you always dreamed of visiting Tuscany, the land of art, wine, and romance, but were unsure where to go and how to use your precious time off? You worked/studied so much all year and every minute of your vacation counts!

Well, this post is just what you need. In this article, I will show you how to plan an incredible Tuscany trip using my free 7-day guide and insider tips. Depending on your preferences and budget, you’ll learn two ways of exploring Tuscany: a classic city itinerary that includes Florence and other beautiful Tuscan towns, or a countryside itinerary that combines Florence with serene rural areas. Either way, your dream vacation in Tuscany will leave an everlasting memory!

This itinerary does not include detailed morning, afternoon, and evening activities, or suggested accommodations and eateries to try. For more in-depth information (44-page detailed itinerary), please check the Experience the Best of Tuscany in 8-Day Itinerary with 3 bonus guides.

The “Experience the Best of Tuscany in 8 Days” itinerary offers a comprehensive and immersive experience through Tuscany. It also provides detailed tips on maximizing your time, strategic sightseeing, and leveraging local cards like the Firenze Card.

Your Tuscan Dream Vacation

For years, the dream of exploring Tuscany has lingered in your thoughts. But you were short of time or money. This year, though, it’s finally becoming a reality. You scraped up 1 week with a decent budget. But with so many options, how do you craft the perfect itinerary? Should you spend 3 days here or 2 days there? Unsure of how to make the most of your limited vacation time? 

By the end of this read, you will have found the ideal itinerary tailored to your needs, including time constraints, budget, personal preferences, and the type of companions accompanying you.

Budget, time, preferences, and your traveling companions are the deciding factors:

Pick One of These Itineraries

In this post, I provide two itineraries that will lead you through some of the finest destinations in Tuscany at your own pace in seven days:

1. The first itinerary features iconic destinations, including Florence—the birthplace of the Renaissance with the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery; San Gimignano, with its 14 towers, rises like a timeless Manhattan atop nearby hills; Siena, a medieval city with a stunning cathedral and lively piazza; Pisa with its Leaning Tower and Miracle Square; and Lucca, with its intact Renaissance walls and much more.

• The second itinerary focuses on Florence and life in the countryside, where you can enjoy scenic landscapes, local cuisine, and rural activities. Take three days to explore Florence, where you can visit its artistic and cultural treasures, such as the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s David, stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio bridge with its jewelry shops, and discover the Basilica of Santa Croce, the resting place of many famous Italians. Later, escape to the countryside and explore the nature and culture of the rural areas, such as the Chianti region, known for its famous wines and olive oils, as well as the picturesque towns and landscapes of Val d’Orcia and Val di Chiana.

7 Days in Tuscany

Itinerary 1 – Day 1: Explore Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance

Imagine that your Tuscany journey begins on a Sunday morning. Take a taxi or walk (if it is close enough, you may only need to walk from the station to your hotel). To verify your location, download the Florence Map. Check in, drop off your luggage, and get ready to explore the city. You only have a few minutes before lunch, so you decide to walk into the historic center and stop at a street food place (stuffed focaccia is all the rage in Florence!) for a bite to eat.

Afternoon: Visit the Duomo—the iconic Florence cathedral—and admire the impressive dome designed by Brunelleschi. You can climb the bell tower or dome for panoramic views to better see the city. Then, see the famous bronze doors decorated with biblical scenes at the Baptistery. This is one of Florence’s oldest buildings. You can then walk to the Piazza della Signoria and visit the Palazzo Vecchio which was the former seat for the government and the Loggia dei Lanzi an open-air gallery of sculptures. You’ll find a replica here of Michelangelo’s David. The original is in the Accademia Gallery. You can either visit the Accademia to see the masterpiece or you can save it for another time.

Spend the last part of your day strolling along the Arno and crossing the Ponte Vecchio. This is the oldest and most famous bridge in Florence. It’s lined with jewelers and offers romantic views. As you stroll along the Arno, admire the colorful buildings and the reflections in the water. Cross the bridge to browse through the souvenir, jewelry, and art shops. Take photos of the beautiful views and architecture. It’s dinnertime, so you search for a restaurant or trattoria to enjoy some authentic Tuscan food. Enjoy every mouthful of your pasta or Florentine steak with a glass of Chianti wine. Finish your meal by enjoying a scoop or slice of gelato (check the list of best gelato shops in Florence here). It was a wonderful afternoon spent in Florence. You’ll be busy tomorrow, so get a good night’s sleep.

Itinerary 1 – Day 2: Must-See Marvels in Florence

Florence is a city that offers so much to see and do that you might feel overwhelmed by the choices. Here are some must-see attractions you can choose to see during your stay in Florence. For a detailed sequence explaining what to see first and why, plus how to skip long lines, local cuisine to try, and fun activities during your stay (e.g. cooking classes, rooftop bar drinks, winery tours, sunset river cruises, and more) click here.

Art & History

Galleria degli Uffizi

Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world, is a must for art lovers. Online tickets are available to visit the gallery. Tickets cost 25 euros each, and you can enter the gallery at any time. It is a popular museum and there are often long lines, especially during the peak season. You can avoid long lines by paying 4 euros extra and booking a specific slot. Spend at least two hours to see the most important pieces. The museum is open from 8:15 am to 6:50 pm. The gallery features masterpieces by Michelangelo Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci and other Renaissance artists. One highlight is The Birth of Venus. The Annunciation and The Adoration of the Magi are also worth mentioning. The paintings, sculptures, and drawings that fill the room gallery will leave you speechless.

Duomo

Start your day with the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), the symbol of the city and the world’s largest brick dome. You can climb to the top of the dome for incredible views. But be prepared for narrow passages and 463 steps. The Cathedral is free, but you will need to purchase a ticket to access the Dome, the Bell Tower and the Baptistry Museum, and Crypt. The Brunelleschi Pass is the best option. It costs €18 online or €20 in person and allows you to visit these attractions within three days. You can purchase tickets online or in person at the ticket counter. Reservations are required for the Dome, which is open between 8:30 am and 7 pm. The Baptistery is one of Florence’s oldest buildings, and its bronze doors are stunning. The Baptistery’s hours are 8:15 am to 10:15 am and 11:15 am to 6:30 pm.

Accademia Gallery

You can see the original David statue of Michelangelo at the Accademia Gallery. The gallery houses other works by Michelangelo, and many stunning other sculptures and paintings. 

The size, expression, and detail of David will amaze you. To avoid long lines, you can purchase the tickets online. I recommend spending an hour in the gallery, which is open between 8:15 am and 6:50 pm. If you want to uncover how to skip the line at ticket offices in Florence and save money with one card, click here.

Sightseeing, Food and Shopping

Palazzo Vecchio

The historic Palazzo Vecchio, which is the city hall, welcomes visitors interested in Florence’s history or politics. It is a beautiful example of Renaissance and medieval architecture. The Palazzo also contains many treasures and artworks. Visitors have the option to explore the palace on their own, or they can join a tour. The palace is open daily from 9 am to 7 pm. Entrance is 14 euros. The main square in Florence, Piazza della Signoria is a great place to admire the sculptures. This open-air museum features a replica of Michelangelo’s David, as well as the Fountain of Neptune and the Loggia Dei Lanzi.

Basilica di Santa Croce

You can also visit the largest Franciscan Church in the world, the Basilica di Santa Croce. Buried in the basilica are the tombs of Michelangelo and other notable figures, including Machiavelli, Galileo, and Rossini. While paying your respects at their tombs, you can appreciate the beautiful frescoes in the interior. The basilica is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

Medici Chapels

The Medici Chapels are part of the Basilica of San Lorenzo, the official church of the Medici family, patrons, and rulers of Florence for centuries. Here you’ll find magnificent tombs and monuments designed by Michelangelo, as well as other artworks by Donatello, Luca della Robbia, and Verrocchio.

Bargello Museum

They built the Bargello Museum in old barracks from the 13th century. The museum has an impressive collection of Renaissance sculptures, including works by Michelangelo and Donatello. Here you can also admire the original bronze panels of the Baptistery’s door. Created by Ghiberti and Brunelleschi in 1401, it is stunning. The Duomo and Uffizi are both in Florence’s historic center, just a short walk from each other, and other attractions like the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi. In one afternoon, you can explore both and get a pretty good sense of Florence’s amazing cultural heritage.

Ponte Vecchio

 There are many shops on the bridge that sell jewelry, art, and souvenirs. Great time for a photo op (especially when the sun sets, as the lights reflect off the waterand the sky turns pink) and do some shopping. If you cross the bridge, you will get to Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace.

Gelato at Vivoli

After visiting the museums and the monuments, treat yourself to an authentic Italian gelato at Vivoli. I compiled a complete list of the best gelato shops in Florence (including the winners of prestigious awards). You will find it refreshing…

Vivoli is a renowned gelateria and one of the oldest in Florence. It offers a variety of flavors, from classic to exotic. You can choose your favorite flavor or try something new. A scoop of gelato costs 2.5 euros, and the gelateria is open from 7:30 am to 11:30 pm. 

San Lorenzo Market

The bustling San Lorenzo Market is a great place to learn about the culture and food of Florence. The market has two sections, the indoor market and the outdoor market. Indoors, you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, breads, wines. Also, you can taste some Tuscan specialties from one of the many restaurants and stalls, such as ribollita, lampredotto, and Panzanella. At the outdoor market, on the other hand, you’ll find local crafts, leather products, clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. The market is open every day from 10 am to 6:30 pm, except for Sundays and public holidays.

Boboli Gardens – What better way to end your busy day than at the Boboli Gardens? A tranquil and relaxing way to end the day indeed. The gardens are behind Pitti Palace: a masterwork of landscape design with lush greenery and impressive sculptures. They also feature fountains and grottos.

Itinerary 1 – Day 4: Siena

It’s your fourth day in Tuscany: time to explore the surrounding countryside and some of the picturesque towns and villages. Your first stop will be Siena. Head to Siena early in the day.

Siena

Siena, just a short drive from Florence, is one of the most striking cities in Tuscany. Known for its medieval architecture and the glorious Duomo, Siena is also famous for the biannual horse race called the Palio. It’s a short, spectacular race. If you are there in July, don’t miss it!

The narrow streets are a great place to walk and see the beautiful churches and palaces. Torre del Mangia is the tall tower in the middle of Piazza del Campo, the main square where all tourists and locals gather. You can climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding areas. 

Spend Your Evening in Florence

After a day trip to Siena, you can return to Florence in the afternoon and resume your exploration of the city. You can choose one of the must-see attractions that you have not visited yet, or you can revisit your favorite ones.

If you are feeling tired from the day, you can also relax like a true Italian. Look for a cozy cafe in the historic center and enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Watch the people passing by and admire the beauty and the charm of the city. You can also taste some of the local delicacies, such as the Santucci biscuits, the schiacciata bread, or the lampredotto sandwich. You can find more information about the best cafes in Florence here.

Florence is a city that never ceases to amaze and delight. Whatever you choose, you will have a memorable experience. To get some ideas as to what to do at night in Florence, check my curated 44-page itinerary with many activities, eateries, tours and other fun facts.

Itinerary 1 – Day 5: San Gimignano and Chianti

How to Visit San Gimignano from Florence

San Gimignano looks like something out of a fairytale. San Gimignano is one of Tuscany’s most beautiful hill towns, known as the Medieval Manhattan for its amazing towers that have stood tall for centuries. A whopping 14 towers rise above the skyline. It also has well-preserved medieval buildings and walls. 

What to see: Visit the Collegiate Church and the Civic Museum. Climb one of the towers such as the Torre Grossa for a panoramic look at the countryside. The entry fee for the Torre Grossa is 9 euros, the Duomo 4 euros, and the Palazzo Comunale 6 euros. The Torre Grossa is open from 10 am to 7:30 pm, the Duomo from 10 am to 5 pm, and the Palazzo Comunale from 11 am to 5:30 pm. Some of the local delicacies you can try are the Vernaccia Wine and saffron. Do swing by the local tourism office for more information on what to do and see in San Gimignano.

Later, enjoy a Chianti wine tour and taste the fruity and light wine paired with local delicacies. Visit some of the picturesque villages and wineries in the region. You can find many options for wine tours online, such as this one or this one.

Itinerary 1 – Day 6: Pisa

It’s day 6 and you are back at your hotel in Florence. Today, you will head to Pisa.

Pisa offers much more than just its famous Leaning Tower. It is a city rich with culture, history, and cuisine, and with lots of events all year round. It also has a Marina – Marina di Pisa—a suburb of Pisa on the shore. You can reach it by following the bike trail from the city center of Pisa. Here are a few suggestions for your last day in Pisa.

How to Get to Pisa

• By public transportation: The train from Florence to Pisa is the easiest, cheapest route – it only takes about 1 hour. You can buy tickets online or at the train station. 
•  By car: You can park your car in one of the public garages or lots outside the city center. If you are staying at a hotel with parking, you can leave it there, but they will probably charge you a daily fee. You can walk from the train station or the parking lot to the Piazza dei Miracoli, where you’ll find the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the Camposanto.

Some people only spend half a day in Pisa, and then want to move on. If that’s the case for you, head to Lucca in the afternoon.

Itinerary 1 – Day 7: Lucca

It’s your last day. I strongly recommend exploring Lucca. The walled city of Lucca is full of surprises. Lucca is a gorgeous town that is often overlooked. Lucca has a reputation for its beautifully preserved Renaissance walls, elegant churches, and lively atmosphere. I spent a few days there and loved it!

Biking is a great way to discover Lucca. Rent a bicycle and cruise along the 4 km long and 12 meter wide walls. Stop at the gates and bastions to admire the view of the city and countryside. Visit the Guinigi Tower with its garden of holm oaks and the Clock Tower which houses the oldest clock mechanism on the planet.

The Cathedral of San Martino is another highlight of Lucca. It dates back to the 11th century. It has a beautiful facade, an interior with rich details, and even a museum. According to legend, Nicodemus carved the Volto Santo, a famous wooden crucifix. You can also see the tomb of Ilaria del Carretto a masterpiece in Gothic sculpture.

Lucca has a vibrant nightlife and delicious local cuisine. You can try some typical dishes such as Buccellato, sweet bread with anise and raisins; the farro zuppa (a soup made with spelled beans and spelled), and Tordelli, a type of ravioli topped with meat sauce. There are also many bars, restaurants, and cafes where you can relax.

Lucca makes a great day-trip destination from Florence or Pisa. Its medieval charm, artistic heritage, and vibrant atmosphere will appeal to both adults and children. Do not miss this wonderful town.

Itinerary 1 – Day 8: Departure Day

End this itinerary with a leisurely walk and say arrivederci to this magical region. There you have it. Your dream Tuscany vacation, tailored to your needs and wants. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway, an extended escape, or a week-long odyssey, Tuscany has something for everyone. Start planning your trip today and get ready to fall in love with Tuscany.

Itinerary 2: Exploring the Countryside Bliss

With this alternate itinerary, you will spend the first 3 days in Florence, and the last 4 in the countryside. Follow the tips in Itinerary 1 for Florence.

After three days of marveling at the artistic wonders of Florence, it’s time to discover the beauty of the Tuscan countryside. On day 4, you’ll embark on an enchanting journey through the heart of Tuscany, where rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages await.

Itinerary 2 – Day 4: Explore the Chianti Region and Other Wine Areas

Start your countryside adventure with a wine lover’s dream: a tour of the renowned Chianti region and other wine areas. You can taste the world-famous Chianti Classico and visit the premier vineyards where they produce Chianti. Check the Chianti Wine Road Itinerary for all the details. I wrote an entire article detailing this tour dedicated to the Chianti Wine road, stretching from Florence to Siena, also known as Chiantigiana. See graphic below.

There are many excellent wineries in Tuscany offering wine tours. These are some of the most famous ones:

Avignonesi: Avignonesi is a winery near Montepulciano and Cortona. Offering innovative wines like Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino and tours, tastings, cooking classes, and other activities with over 16,000 reviews earning it a 4.5-star rating – not bad considering they only opened three years ago!

Antinori is one of Italy’s oldest and most esteemed wine producers, dating back to 1385. They boast an elegant modern winery in Chianti called Antinori nel Chianti Classico where they produce some iconic wines, like Tignanello and Solaia. Check their website for tours and events.

Biondi Santi, Tenuta Il Greppo: This is the winery that invented the Brunello di Montalcino wine, one of the most refined and prestigious wines in the world. It is in the heart of the Montalcino area and has a long and noble history. Montalcino Winery also offers guided tours and tastings, by appointment only.

After enjoying lunch at one winery, your wine-infused adventure continues as you visit cellars and learn more about the winemaking process. Capture beautiful vineyards in late afternoon sunlight to create lasting memories!

Itinerary 2 (option 2)- Day 4: Countryside Retreat

If, instead of the Chianti Wine Road, you’d rather drive around the famous countryside of Val D’Orcia, I recommend visiting Pienza and from there, drive to Montepulciano. The road connecting these two towns is the very one often used in movies and landscape paintings.

Here are a few towns you should visit:

1. Pienza, a small town in the south of Tuscany, is in the famous Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the birthplace of Pope Pius II, who transformed his humble village into the “ideal city of the Renaissance” in the 15th century. Pienza is also renowned for producing pecorino cheese, a delicious sheep’s milk cheese that visitors can taste in many shops and restaurants.

2) Val d’Orcia is a beautiful valley in Tuscany, characterized by rolling hills, vineyards, cypress trees, and medieval villages. It is a landscape that has inspired many artists and photographers, and that represents the essence of Tuscany. Many wineries and cellars offer the opportunity to sample wines from Val d’Orcia, such as Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Some of the most picturesque towns in Val d’Orcia are:

3) Montalcino

4) Montepulciano

5) San Quirico d’Orcia

6) Bagno Vignoni

7) Pitigliano

8) Sovana

Choose between hiking, biking, or even a Vespa tour to explore these amazing towns. Stay at an Airbnb or boutique hotel to fully immerse in your Tuscan dream vacation.

Wrapping up

An experience in Tuscany would not be complete without visiting its stunning countryside, from tasting world-class wines in Chianti to experiencing simple rural living. These itineraries will help provide an ideal contrast with Florence and her cultural riches. For anyone interested in doing the Chianti Wine Road itineraries, please read my article with tips and important things to remember!

Start planning your Tuscany visit right now and share your experience here. Happy Travels!