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Many visitors flock to Tuscany during the bustling summer months, drawn to the famed attractions in Florence and Pisa, thereby overlooking the wealth of lesser-known gems throughout the region. Our guide offers unique itineraries to help you explore the hidden treasures of Tuscany, whether you have a car or are using public transportation. While created for a one-week trip (the minimum IOHO to appreciate this diverse region), the itineraries are easy to tailor to your taste and needs.
Map of Accommodation, Points of Interest, Eateries and Transport
Below is a map of the recommended accommodations, points of interest, eateries, and transport terminals or stops mentioned in this article.
Why visit Tuscany in the off-season?
Travel to Tuscany in the off-season offers a more relaxed and enjoyable experience than during the crowded and often sweltering summer months.
In spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November), temperatures are a pleasant ten °C to 25°C / 50°F to 77°F, ideal for outdoor and city explorations. Plus, fewer tourists mean you can immerse yourself in the region’s cultural, artistic and natural offerings without long lines or packed venues.
Autumn also allows visitors to the region to experience the olive and grape harvest and the renowned Truffle Festival in San Miniato. Held over three weekends in November, this festival celebrates the region’s prized white truffles, attracting connoisseurs worldwide and offering opportunities to taste and buy truffle-based products.
To learn more about the weather in Tuscany all year round, check out Weatherspark.
Autumn in Tuscany is beautiful, thanks to the season's colours and mild temperatures | Image courtesy of Rick Govic on Unsplash
Why choose Podere Montisi as your base?
Tuscany has no shortage of beautiful accommodation options. If you’re looking for something truly special, we can’t recommend Podere Montisi highly enough. The property stands out as the perfect destination for travellers seeking an authentic and sustainable Tuscan experience:
- Located a mere 15km northwest of Florence in the Parco di Travalle, Podere Montisi is conveniently located to explore the region’s major sights and enjoy the great outdoors. The property is lovingly managed by the Frosini family, who infuse this historical farm with warmth and attention to detail.
- The agriturismo offers two beautifully restored apartments, each accommodating 2 to 4 guests and featuring traditional Tuscan aesthetics and modern amenities. Its pet-friendly policy ensures that even your furry friends can accompany you on holiday.
- The farm practices biodynamic agriculture, allowing visitors to participate in various hands-on experiences and enjoy fresh, organic produce directly from the source. Podere Montisi also plays a vital role in the local community by fostering biodiversity and engaging in research projects which contribute to the preservation of local traditions and help build climate resilience.
All of this is financed from the farm’s income from its guests – a true win/win for travellers and the local community. We enjoyed staying at Podere Montisi and sharing our experience in this article.
Guests at Podere Montisi wake up to stunning views of the farm's olive grove | Image courtesy of Podere Montisi
Interested in experiencing the Olive Harvest at Podere Montisi?
The harvest begins in mid-October and lasts about three weeks. During this time, the farm is a hive of activity—everyone contributes, and the family is supported by a small group of WWOOFers worldwide.
Guests can help with the harvest (or watch) and enjoy the delicious meals Barbara prepares. These are followed by cosy evenings spent sharing stories around the fireplace. During that time, visitors may also have the rare opportunity to witness the extra virgin olive oil pressing, conducted at temperatures below 27 degrees and without oxygen to ensure the highest quality.
You can read more about this unique experience and book your stay through socialbnb.
What should you bear in mind when staying at Podere Montisi?
If you decide to make Podere Montisi your base, remember that the property is about 2.5km from your nearest public transport stop. It’s a lovely and (mostly) flat walk (or bicycle ride), but we know it’s not for everyone. Relying on public transportation limits your choices somewhat. We have therefore created itineraries that cater to both – those who are happy to walk/bike and use public transportation and those who prefer to hire a car.
If you choose to do the latter, hiring a car from Florence [IATA Code FLR] or Pisa Airport [IATA Code PSA] is best. While you may arrive in Tuscany by plane anyway, picking up/returning your hire car from/to the airport is also recommended if you travel to Tuscany by train. This way, you can avoid city traffic (and won’t get fined if your GPS takes you the wrong way, as we were). Both airports are easily reachable by public transport from the respective train station.
How to spend your time in Tuscany in a meaningful and sustainable way?
With its picturesque landscapes, rich (art) history, mesmerising architecture and delicious cuisine, Tuscany is one of those destinations you could spend a year exploring (and still not see everything).
Since most of us don’t have a year, our itineraries below endeavour to provide a snapshot of all the different facets the region has to offer, focusing on experiences that are a bit more off the beaten path. And while designed for a week, they can be easily altered to suit the length of your stay and interests, whether you’re driving or relying on public transport.
Day 1: Explore Florence
Morning
Start with a free walking tour - a fantastic, budget-friendly introduction to Florence's rich history, art and culture. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you'll wander through the city's cobblestone streets, pass some of its most important landmarks and get a deeper understanding of Florentine life (past and present). The meeting point for the tour is the Obelisk in front of the Grand Hotel Baglioni, a short walk from Florence's central train station, Santa Maria Novella (short SMN).
(The outside of) Brunelleschi's impressive dome is one of the sights you'll see on a free walking tour of Florence
Lunch
You'll have worked up an appetite by the time your tour ends. Our restaurant recommendation is only a few minutes' walk away on the south side of the river Arno. Established in 1945 and still run by the same family, Trattoria Cammillo [Google Maps] is a Florence institution. Known for its cosy atmosphere and authentic Tuscan dishes, including Bistecca alla Fiorentina, it's the perfect spot for a leisurely meal after a morning of sightseeing.
For traditional Tuscan dishes head to the Trattoria Cammillo in Oltrarno, in the same family since 1945
Afternoon
Once fed and rested, we recommend staying in Oltrarno a little longer - the atmosphere on this side of the river is so much calmer and relaxed. Take the #12 bus from Pescaia Di Santa Rosa [Google Maps] to the 11th-century Basilica di San Miniato al Monte [Google Maps]. The views from here over the city and beyond are stunning (and far less crowded than at nearby Piazzale Michelangelo). Just tap your credit card on the card reader when you enter the bus or download (and purchase through) the app if you need to pay for multiple people or want to buy a day pass.
For panoramic views of Florence without tourist crowds head to Basilica di San Miniato al Monte | Image courtesy of Pixabay
Make sure to check out the Basilica's interior, too. Then, stroll down towards and across the river, passing the Giardino delle Rose [Google Maps] (with yet more beautiful city vistas) along the way. If you feel a dessert is in order, head to La Carraia [Google Maps] for one of the best gelatos in Florence.
The beautiful views over Florence continue in the Rose Garden/Giardino delle Rose
Then continue to the Basilica Santa Croce, an artistic masterpiece (don't miss Giotto's beautiful frescoes) and the final resting place of Michelangelo, Rossini, Machiavelli and Galileo Galilei. It's also a more peaceful alternative to the heavily touristed Duomo, offering a quieter yet equally (if not more) enriching experience.
The Basilica Santa Croce is the resting place of some of Italy's most famous sons, including Galileo Galileo
After your visit, you may want to return to some of the key sights you passed on this morning's tour. Our recommendations for a closer look are the Palazzo Vecchio and/or the Baptistry of San Giovanni. Your ticket to the latter also includes the Opera del Duomo Museum, which many miss out on but is a must-see when visiting Florence. On your way, pop into All’Antico Vinaio [Google Maps] for a takeaway sandwich to enjoy later. The queue might be discouraging, but trust us: the sandwiches are out of this world, and the place is like a well-oiled machine, so you won't have to wait long.
When in Florence, visit the Baptistry of San Giovanni and the Opera del Duomo Museum where the original door of the Baptistry is kept
Evening: After all this sightseeing, finish where you started, with an aperitivo at the roof terrace bar of the Grand Hotel Baglioni [Google Maps]. Enjoy the views over Florence as the sun sets before making your way back to Podere Montisi, munching on your takeaway sandwich on your way home.
Your walking tour started outside the Grand Hotel Baglioni - finish your day with an aperitivo on the hotel's roof terrace | Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Day 2: Podere Montisi Workshop and Relaxation
With such a busy first day, we suggest a calmer and more relaxed day 2.
Start with one of the workshops/classes offered at Podere Montisi. Introducing you to the methods that have sustained this region for centuries, visitors can learn practical skills while gaining a greater appreciation for the land and its people. Covering various topics, from cooking traditional meals to wreathmaking, there is plenty for you and your family or travel buddy to choose from. If you'd like to know what these workshops/classes are like, we joined the breadmaking class and will tell you all about it here.
Podere Montisi offers a variety of workshops, including a sourdough breadmaking class
After lunch, relax with a good book on the terrace of your apartment, have a nap, or go for a stroll around the property. Make sure to take your camera or smartphone with you, as you'll want to capture the beautiful scenery.
Day 3: Explore the Chianti Region
Today, we recommend joining a guided tour of San Gimignano and the Chianti Region. The tour starts and finishes at the Café Gamberini [Google Maps], a 5-minute walk from Santa Maria Novella (SMN) Station in Florence.
Visiting (the wineries of) the Chianti region is a MUST when in Tuscany | Image courtesy of Flo P on Unsplash
Day 4: Adventure Day – Hiking, Mountain Biking or Horse Riding at Podere Montisi
With a busy day 3 (and yet more exploration planned for days 5 and 6), we suggest another quieter day spent at and around your holiday home. With the Parco di Travalle and its many hiking, biking and horseriding trails at its doorstep, Podere Montisi is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors:
- Hiking: A network of well-marked hiking trails meanders through the surrounding countryside. Choose a distance and difficulty level that matches your preferences and abilities. This loop hike offers panoramic views of Pistoia and Florence.
- Mountain Biking: For those keen to explore the area on two wheels, there are several local bike hire services: Gusto Cycling offers pick-ups/drop-offs in Florence or Pistoia; Madden Action Sport Team offers MTB hires in Calenzano, and Pedal Italy/Ciclismo Plus offer pick-ups/drop-offs in Florence OR (for an additional fee) delivery to/pick-up from Podere Montisi.
- Horse Riding: For those who prefer to sit in a different saddle, contact the equestrian centres in Calenzano [Google Maps] and La Chiusa [Google Maps]. Tours can be tailored to suit different riding abilities, so whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, you’ll find an option that works for you.
The Parco di Travalle surrounding Podere Montisi invites with a variety of hiking, mountain biking and horse riding trails
Day 5: Explore Pistoia and Montecatini
Today, we are heading (north)westwards towards the coast and will visit two lesser-known towns between Florence and Pisa.
Pistoia
Often overshadowed by its two more famous neighbours, Pistoia is a hidden gem worth exploring.
Start your visit in the Piazza del Duomo, where you'll find the impressive Cathedral of San Zeno [Google Maps] and the stunning Baptistery of San Giovanni in Corte [Google Maps]. Climbing the 200 steps up the Duomo's bell tower [Google Maps] will reward you with stunning panoramic views of the piazza, town and surrounding countryside. Also, don't miss the historic Ospedale del Ceppo [Google Maps], known for its striking glazed terracotta frieze, and the underground museum [Google Maps].
To experience Tuscany without the crowds visit lesser known gems like Pistoia with its stunning Cathedral | Image courtesy of Makalu on Pixabay
For lunch, we recommend heading to Locanda del Capitano del Popolo, a quaint little restaurant right in town [Google Maps].
If you visit Pistoia on 25 July, the feast day of the town's Patron Saint, St James, you'll be able to witness the Giostra dell'Orso/Joust of the Bear. Held at the Piazza del Duomo since the 13th century, this is a horse contest between the historical districts of Pistoia, not unlike its more famous cousin in Siena.
Pistoia's Piazza del Duomo is the location of the Giostra dell’Orso, a horse race held here since the 13th century | Image courtesy of Makalu on Pixabay
Montecatini
After lunch, visit Montecatini Terme, one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Start your stroll around town at Pineta Park [Google Maps], and make sure to check out the historic spas, including Terme Tamerici, Terme Regina, and Terme Tettuccio. While some of the historic spas in Montecatini are (sadly) closed these days, you can still access Terme Tettuccio (and taste its thermal waters, used to treat intestinal conditions). The Art Nouveau architecture of the others is just as beautiful from the outside.
Experience the flair of yesteryear with a visit to Montecatini Terme | Image courtesy of Gulzada Bektemirova on Unsplash
From Terme Tettuccio, it's only a short walk to the cable car station that takes you to Montecatini Alto [Google Maps]. Continue your stroll around Montecatini Alto and enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. If you're still here in the early evening, head to Caffè Giusti [Google Maps] or Ostaria Da Mario [Google Maps] for an aperitivo and dinner.
Then, return to Montecatini Terme via the historic forest path that runs parallel to the cable car and to the train station for your journey back.
With its cobble-stoned streets, Montecatini Alto on the hilltop above the UNESCO-listed spa town has a completely different vibe | Image courtesy of Anton Lammert on Unsplash
Day 6: Medici Villas (and Gardens) La Petraia and di Castello
Spend your final full day exploring two of Tuscany’s most beautiful Medici villas and gardens - Villa La Petraia and Villa di Castello.
Twelve preserved Medici villas in Tuscany have been included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The villas (along with their sprawling gardens) showcase magnificent Renaissance architecture and provide a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of one of Italy's most influential families.
Lovers of Renaissance art and architecture will appreciate the villas and gardens of the Medici family, like Villa di Castello | Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Day 1: Explore Florence
Morning
Start with a free walking tour - a fantastic, budget-friendly introduction to Florence's rich history, art and culture. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you'll wander through the city's cobblestone streets, pass some of its most important landmarks and get a deeper understanding of Florentine life (past and present). The meeting point for the tour is the Obelisk in front of the Grand Hotel Baglioni, a short walk from Florence's central train station, Santa Maria Novella (short SMN).
(The outside of) Brunelleschi's impressive dome is one of the sights you'll see on a free walking tour of Florence
Lunch
You'll have worked up an appetite by the time your tour ends. Our restaurant recommendation is only a few minutes' walk away on the south side of the river Arno. Established in 1945 and still run by the same family, Trattoria Cammillo [Google Maps] is a Florence institution. Known for its cosy atmosphere and authentic Tuscan dishes, including Bistecca alla Fiorentina, it's the perfect spot for a leisurely meal after a morning of sightseeing.
For traditional Tuscan dishes head to the Trattoria Cammillo in Oltrarno, in the same family since 1945
Afternoon
Once fed and rested, we recommend staying in Oltrarno a little longer - the atmosphere on this side of the river is so much calmer and relaxed. Take the #12 bus from Pescaia Di Santa Rosa [Google Maps] to the 11th-century Basilica di San Miniato al Monte [Google Maps]. The views from here over the city and beyond are stunning (and far less crowded than at nearby Piazzale Michelangelo). Just tap your credit card on the card reader when you enter the bus or download (and purchase through) the app if you need to pay for multiple people or want to buy a day pass.
For panoramic views of Florence without tourist crowds head to Basilica di San Miniato al Monte | Image courtesy of Pixabay
Make sure to check out the Basilica's interior, too. Then, stroll down towards and across the river, passing the Giardino delle Rose [Google Maps] (with yet more beautiful city vistas) along the way. If you feel a dessert is in order, head to La Carraia [Google Maps] for one of the best gelatos in Florence.
The beautiful views over Florence continue in the Rose Garden/Giardino delle Rose
Then continue to the Basilica Santa Croce, an artistic masterpiece (don't miss Giotto's beautiful frescoes) and the final resting place of Michelangelo, Rossini, Machiavelli and Galileo Galilei. It's also a more peaceful alternative to the heavily touristed Duomo, offering a quieter yet equally (if not more) enriching experience.
The Basilica Santa Croce is the resting place of some of Italy's most famous sons, including Galileo Galileo
After your visit, you may want to return to some of the key sights you passed on this morning's tour. Our recommendations for a closer look are the Palazzo Vecchio and/or the Baptistry of San Giovanni. Your ticket to the latter also includes the Opera del Duomo Museum, which many miss out on but is a must-see when visiting Florence. On your way, pop into All’Antico Vinaio [Google Maps] for a takeaway sandwich to enjoy later. The queue might be discouraging, but trust us: the sandwiches are out of this world, and the place is like a well-oiled machine, so you won't have to wait long.
When in Florence, visit the Baptistry of San Giovanni and the Opera del Duomo Museum where the original door of the Baptistry is kept
Evening: After all this sightseeing, finish where you started, with an aperitivo at the roof terrace bar of the Grand Hotel Baglioni [Google Maps]. Enjoy the views over Florence as the sun sets before making your way back to Podere Montisi, munching on your takeaway sandwich on your way home.
Your walking tour started outside the Grand Hotel Baglioni - finish your day with an aperitivo on the hotel's roof terrace | Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Tip: Driving a car around Florence is a nightmare. We therefore recommend to park your car free of charge near the train station in Prato and take the train to Santa Maria Novella (SMN) Station in Florence from there. Trains to/from Florence depart every 15 minutes, and the journey only take 20 minutes.
Day 2: Podere Montisi Workshop and Relaxation
With such a busy first day, we suggest a calmer and more relaxed day 2.
Start with one of the workshops/classes offered at Podere Montisi. These classes introduce visitors to the methods that have sustained this region for centuries, allowing them to learn practical skills while gaining a greater appreciation for the land and its people. The workshops cover various topics, from cooking traditional meals to wreath making, so there is plenty for you and your family or travel buddy to choose from. If you'd like to know what these workshops/classes are like, we joined the breadmaking class and will tell you all about it here.
Podere Montisi offers a variety of workshops, including a sourdough breadmaking class
After lunch, relax with a good book on the terrace of your apartment, have a nap, or go for a stroll around the property. Make sure to take your camera or smartphone with you, as you'll want to capture the beautiful scenery.
Day 3: Self-Drive Day Tour – Chianti Region
Today, you will visit Siena and San Gimignano, two of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany and (very deservedly) UNESCO world heritage sites.
Morning
Siena, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Italy, is famous for its Piazza del Campo, where the historic Palio horse race is held twice a year—in early July and mid-August. Built with black and white marble (which gives it its striped appearance) and featuring a blue, starred ceiling and inlaid marble floors, the Duomo di Siena is one of the most beautiful churches I've ever set foot into.
With its blue, starred ceiling, and black and white marble stripes, Siena's Cathedral leaves you speechless
Head up the Torre del Mangia [Google Maps] for a bird' s-eye view of the Piazza del Campo, Duomo, and the town and countryside surrounding it. The views are worth climbing 400 steps (and it's very doable, even if you're scared of heights like me).
After all this exploration, we recommend stopping at Osteria Nonna Gina [Google Maps], the quintessential Italian family-run restaurant, for lunch. Try pici alla dado (pici are a Sienese signature dish; this homemade recipe is especially delicious). Another good option is the Osteria Il Carroccio [Google Maps], with a larger selection of pici options and ricciarelli (Siena's deliciously fluffy cookies made from ground almonds, egg white and honey).
While in Siena, make sure to try local specialties like ricciarelli, cookies made from ground almonds, egg white and honey | Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
While we're on desserts, another Sienese speciality is panforte, a spiced cake with honey, nuts, and dried fruits. The best places to buy it in Siena (along with other local specialities, including ricciarelli) are Panificio Il Magnifico [Google Maps] and the Antica Drogheria Manganelli 1879 [Google Maps].
Tip: In Siena, you can find free parking at the Fortezza Medicea parking lot [Google Maps], located a mere 10 minutes' walk from the city centre.
Afternoon
After lunch, explore San Gimignano, about an hour's drive north-west of Siena. It is often called the Town of Towers for its impressive medieval skyline, which includes 14 surviving towers.
With its 14 remaining towers, San Gimignano's skyline is recognisable from afar | Image courtesy of Makalu on Pixabay
San Gimignano is a great place to just stroll around and take in the atmosphere. The museum at Piazza del Duomo [Google Maps] is worth popping into, and the adjacent Torre Grossa worthwhile climbing for its panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside [Google Maps]. And while you're there, make sure to also visit the Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta [Google Maps], more impressive on the inside than what the outside promises.
Among its towers, Torre Grossa can be climbed - the views of the town and surrounding landscape are magnificient
If you love wine, stop by (at least) one of the local wineries in the Chianti region. Guided tours provide an in-depth look at the wine-making process and include tastings, often paired with local cheeses and meats. Here are a few we can recommend:
Tip: In San Gimignano, you can find free parking spots at Via P. Gobetti/Via Don Minzoni [Google Maps], a 15 minute flattish walk from Porta San Giovanni, and near the Via Di Fugnano roundabout [Google Maps], a 20 minute flattish walk from Porta San Matteo.
Visiting (the wineries of) the Chianti region is a MUST when in Tuscany | Image courtesy of Flo P on Unsplash
Day 4: Adventure Day – Hiking, Mountain Biking or Horse Riding at Podere Montisi
With a busy day 3 (and yet more exploration planned for days 5 and 6), we suggest another quieter day spent at and around your holiday home. With the Parco di Travalle and its many hiking, biking and horseriding trails at its doorstep, Podere Montisi is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors:
- Hiking: A network of well-marked hiking trails meanders through the surrounding countryside. Choose a distance and difficulty level that matches your preferences and abilities. This loop hike offers panoramic views of Pistoia and Florence.
- Mountain Biking: For those keen to explore the area on two wheels, there are several local bike hire services: Gusto Cycling offers pick-ups/drop-offs in Florence or Pistoia; Madden Action Sport Team offers MTB hires in Calenzano, and Pedal Italy/Ciclismo Plus offer pick-ups/drop-offs in Florence OR (for an additional fee) delivery to/pick-up from Podere Montisi.
- Horse Riding: For those who prefer to sit in a different saddle, contact the equestrian centres in Calenzano [Google Maps] and La Chiusa [Google Maps]. Tours can be tailored to suit different riding abilities, so whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, you’ll find an option that works for you.
The Parco di Travalle surrounding Podere Montisi invites with a variety of hiking, mountain biking and horse riding trails
Day 5: Self-Drive Day Tour – Pistoia, Montecatini and Lucca
Today, we are driving (north)westwards towards the coast and visit three lesser known towns between Florence and Pisa.
Pistoia
Often overshadowed by its two more famous neighbours, Pistoia is a hidden gem worth exploring.
Start your visit in the Piazza del Duomo, where you’ll find the impressive Cathedral of San Zeno [Google Maps] and the stunning Baptistery of San Giovanni in Corte [Google Maps]. Climbing the 200 steps up the Duomo's bell tower [Google Maps] will reward you with stunning panoramic views of the piazza, town and surrounding countryside. Also don’t miss the historic Ospedale del Ceppo [Google Maps], known for its striking glazed terracotta frieze, and the underground museum [Google Maps].
To experience Tuscany without the crowds visit lesser known gems like Pistoia with its stunning Cathedral | Image courtesy of Makalu on Pixabay
For lunch, we recommend to head to Locanda del Capitano del Popolo, a quaint little restaurant right in town [Google Maps].
If you happen to visit Pistoia on 25 July, the feast day of the town's Patron Saint, St James, you'll be able to witness the Giostra dell'Orso/Joust of the Bear. Held at the Piazza del Duomo since the 13th century, this is a horse contest between the historical districts of Pistoia, not unlike its more famous cousin in Siena.
Pistoia's Piazza del Duomo is the location of the Giostra dell’Orso, a horse race held here since the 13th century | Image courtesy of Makalu on Pixabay
Tip: You can park your car for free at Parceggio Cellini [Google Maps], a flat 10-15 minute walk from the city centre.
Montecatini
After lunch, visit Montecatini Terme, one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Start your stroll around town at Pineta Park [Google Maps], and make sure to check out the historic spas, including Terme Tamerici, Terme Regina, and Terme Tettuccio. While some of the historic spas in Montecatini are (sadly) closed these days, you can still access Terme Tettuccio (and taste its thermal waters, used to treat intestinal conditions). The Art Nouveau architecture of the others is just as beautiful from the outside.
Experience the flair of yesteryear with a visit to Montecatini Terme | Image courtesy of Gulzada Bektemirova on Unsplash
From Terme Tettuccio, it's only a short walk to the cable car station that takes you to Montecatini Alto [Google Maps]. Continue your stroll around Montecatini Alto and enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Then, return to Montecatini Terme via the historic forest path parallel to the cable car.
With its cobble-stoned streets, Montecatini Alto on the hilltop above the UNESCO-listed spa town has a completely different vibe | Image courtesy of Anton Lammert on Unsplash
Tip: Free parking is available at Parcheggio Leonardo Da Vinci [Google Maps], a flat 10-15 minute walk to Pineta Park.
Lucca
Finish your day in the charming town of Lucca, known as the Town of Churches. It is famous for its Renaissance-era city walls, which encircle the historic centre and are the only ones in Italy that are completely preserved. You can walk or cycle along these walls, which offer great views of the city.
Lucca is the only town in Italy with its Renaissance-era city wall still fully intact | Image cortesy of Fabrizia Chelini on Pixabay
Inside the walls, visit the beautiful Duomo di San Martino [Google Maps], the Roman Amphitheatre [Google Maps], and the medieval Guinigi Tower [Google Maps], instantly recognisable by the ancient oak trees at its top. While the latter's 230 steps are worthwhile climbing for its panoramic views over the town and surrounding countryside, the tower's open interior staircase is not suitable for those who are scared of heights.
Music lovers may also visit the birthplace of the great Italian composer Giacomo Puccini [Google Maps].
You can finish your visit with an aperitivo at Al Bacaro del Collegio [Google Maps] or L’Angolo del Sapore [Google Maps]. For dinner head to Osteria da Pasqualino Gubitosa [Google Maps].
If you're not scared of heights, climb Guinigi Tower for the best views over Lucca (and its ancient Amphitheatre)
Lucca is a compact town that is easy to explore on foot. That said, if you prefer to hire a bicycle, you can do so at Amici Bici [Google Maps].
Tip: Park your car free of charge around the large produce market/Mercato Ortofrutticolo [Google Maps], just outside the city walls.
Day 6: Discover Tuscany’s Hidden Gems – Empoli, San Miniato and Vinci
Today, we continue to explore Tuscany's lesser-known destinations, this time through south-west of Florence.
Empoli
Begin your day in Empoli with a visit to the Collegiata di Sant’Andrea. Empoli's main church has a gorgeous Florentine Romanesque façade (made from green and white marble, with elements that date back to the 11th century) and an impressive 3D ceiling fresco (though not original, as much of the church was destroyed in WWII).
The Museo del Vetro, housed in a 14th-century salt warehouse, documents Empoli's over 500 years of glassmaking heritage.
Tip: Free parking is available at Via dei Cappuccini, just south of the train station, a flat 10 minute walk into the old town [Google Maps].
Mostly destroyed in WWII, Empoli's Collegiata di Sant Andrea houses many precious art works
San Miniato
Next, head to San Miniato, a quaint (almost sleepy) hilltop town famous for its truffles.
Stroll around the Piazza della Repubblica and marvel at the façade of the Seminario Vescovile [Google Maps], which dates from the early 18th century. Walk up the stairs to Piazza del Duomo, with its magnificent Chiesa del Santissimo Crocifisso [Google Maps]—make sure to take a peek inside. Continue along Via di Rocca [Google Maps], which will take you up the hill to the Rocca Federico II, a medieval tower (rebuilt after WWII) with panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
Alternatively, you can join this guided tour and be shown around by a friendly and knowledgeable local.
For panoramic views of San Miniato and its surrounds head up Torre di Federico | Image courtesy of Buono del Tesoro on Pixabay
For lunch, we can recommend the Osteria l'Upupa [Google Maps].
And speaking of food... If you’re visiting between September and December, take the opportunity to join a local truffle-hunting tour. And if you see on one of the last three weekends in November, you can witness the annual truffle festival.
Tip: You can park your car for free at Parcheggio Fonti Alle Fate, a 5 minute walk from the town centre [Google Maps].
Truffles are a delicacy, and the area around San Miniato is famous for it | Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Vinci
Spend your afternoon in Vinci, the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci.
Suppose you're interested in the Renaissance period. In that case, a small detour and worthwhile stop on your way from San Miniato to Vinci is the Medici Villa of Cerreto Guidi, a well-preserved hunting lodge of the Medici family. Twelve preserved Medici villas across Tuscany have been included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The villas (along with their sprawling gardens) showcase magnificent Renaissance architecture and provide a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of one of Italy's most influential families.
Lovers of the Renaissance period will appreciate the Medici Villa of Cerreto Guidi between San Miniato and Vinci | Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Once in Vinci, visit the Museo Leonardiano [Google Maps], which showcases models of Leonardo's inventions and offers fascinating insights into his genius. From here, it's a 2km walk/drive to his childhood home, Casa Natale di Leonardo [Google Maps], set in the beautiful countryside just outside town. The views along the way and from his birthplace are breathtaking. Both museums are included in your entry ticket price.
Tip: Vinci offers free parking at Via Girolamo Calvi, a 10 minute walk from the town centre [Google Maps].
Leonardo da Vinci's many inventions are displayed at the Museo Leonardiano in the town of his birth
Alternatively, for wine lovers, the region offers yet more opportunities for winery tours and wine tastings, including at:
- Fattoria di Piazzano, Empoli [Google Maps]
- La Doccia Di Vinci [Google Maps]
- Tenuta Santini, Vinci [Google Maps].
For wine lovers, the area around Empoli and Vinci also offers winery tours and wine tastings | Image courtesy of Stefan Schweihofer on Pixabay
On the other hand, nature lovers might enjoy a hike in the Padule di Fucecchio Nature Reserve, Italy’s largest inland wetlands. Starting at the visitor centre in Castelmartini [Google Maps], a nature trail first leads through an old oak forest to the ancient Porto de Le Morette and from there along the embankment to the Casotto del Biagiotti observatory in the middle of the wetlands. The out-and-back trail is flat and about 7km in total.
Located near Vinci, the Padule di Fucecchio are Italy’s largest inland wetlands | Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Have You Discovered the Hidden Corners of Tuscany?
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