Planning the perfect Tuscany itinerary can feel overwhelming with so many incredible places to choose from. My friend Cheryl and I discovered this firsthand when we visited Tuscany in August 2024.
Our trip was absolutely magical. We indulged in the most delicious food; fresh pasta, the best bruschetta, and gelato that made our taste buds dance.
The beautiful art everywhere left us speechless. Especially the stunning frescoes that seemed to tell stories on every church and wall. I found myself staring up at those painted ceilings for so long!
The medieval architecture transported us back in time. We spent hours wandering through narrow cobblestone streets. We discovered hidden courtyards and tiny piazzas tucked into every nook and cranny of these ancient cities. Each turn revealed something new to marvel at.
And yes, the wine lived up to every expectation we had.
Whether you’re traveling with older kids, teens, or just adults who appreciate good food and incredible history, this guide will show you how to spend an unforgettable 7 days in Tuscany.
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7-Day Tuscany Itinerary
Let’s dive right into the Tuscany itinerary. It will take you through seven incredible days of art, food, and unforgettable experiences. Choose the parts you like and discard the parts you don’t. Travel is personal and unique to the individual traveler.
Day 1 In Tuscany
Our Tuscany trip itinerary begins with iconic leaning towers, stunning marble architecture, and those classic tourist photos you’ve been dreaming of taking in Pisa.
Reservations – Day 1
These are quick links to the possible reservations needed on Day 1 of this Tuscany itinerary.
- Pisa Mover
- Pisa Food Tour
- Tower of Pisa Tickets or the Guided Tour of The Tower of Pisa and Cathedral
Fly Into Pisa
The airport is just a short distance from the city and incredibly easy to reach. Take the train shuttle called the Pisa Mover that connects the airport directly to Pisa Centrale train station.
You can buy your tickets right before you get on for €6.50 one way. If you prefer to plan ahead, you can also purchase tickets online.
The ride is quick and hassle-free. A bit expensive for such a short ride, in my opinion, but what can you do?
Where To Stay In Pisa – 1 night
I would recommend spending 1 night in Pisa to fully explore the city. If you fly in late, stay for 2 nights. Here are my top recommendations for family-friendly accommodations.
Like all of the hotels I recommend, I research hotels where you get the most for your money. A nice hotel with good ratings that isn’t too expensive.
- Prato dei Miracoli Residenza d’Epoca: If waking up to views of the Leaning Tower from your bedroom window is on your bucket list, this is your place. This exceptional property offers the rare chance to gaze at one of the world’s most famous landmarks from your room. There aren’t great family rooms, so if you are traveling with kids you will need two rooms. This increases the cost, but those unparalleled views and elegant comfort make it absolutely worth it for such a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Terzopiano: For families seeking budget-friendly comfort, Terzopiano delivers. It offers excellent value with its clean, spacious 3-bedroom layout for up to 6 guests. Located near Pisa Centrale train station, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring Pisa and venturing to other Tuscan destinations. It’s ideal for larger families who want to save money while still having plenty of room to spread out.
Alternatively Stay In Lucca
I really love staying in popular day trip destinations, as the evenings and mornings are usually quiet and relaxed. So, alternatively, you could stay in Lucca instead of Pisa and do a day trip to Pisa.
Full disclosure, I haven’t been to Lucca, but I have heard from my travel friends, that it is an amazing destination. Something to consider, even though I can’t personally recommend it.
In this Tuscany itinerary, we are heading to Siena next. If you do decide to stay in Lucca, flip the direction of this Tuscany itinerary to travel to Florence next instead of Siena. You will spend less time on the train if you do this!
Here are a few Lucca lodging options that would work great for families:
- Màrita Apartment: This beautifully updated 2-bedroom apartment sits in a stellar location within Lucca’s historic walled city. The thoughtfully decorated space gives families plenty of room to spread out. The exceptionally friendly host ensures a seamless stay. You’ll be steps away from cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and the famous city walls.
- Casa Alice Lucca Centro: This charming centro apartment offers exceptional value for budget-conscious families. The setup is perfect with a queen bed for parents and twin beds for kids. What sets it apart is the impeccable cleanliness, prime central location for exploring on foot, and fantastic price point.
What To Do In Pisa For A Day
With your accommodation sorted, here’s exactly what to do in Pisa for a day to see all the highlights.
You can’t come to Pisa without taking those famous leaning tower photos! While most people go to the Piazza dei Miracoli first thing in the morning, I’d suggest visiting later in the afternoon and early evening when it’s less busy.
So let’s start somewhere completely different. This self-guided walking tour is roughly 30 minutes of walking with stops along the way.
Start At Tuttomondo Mural By Keith Haring
Begin your day at the colorful Tuttomondo mural by Keith Haring. It was painted in 1989 on the exterior wall of the Church of Sant’Antonio Abate. It is a fun and vibrant mural that represents “All the World” and according to VisitTuscany.com tells stories of harmony and peace in the world.
Palazzo Blu
If you are an art lover, head to Palazzo Blu to immerse yourself in some incredible masterpieces. This beautifully restored medieval palace houses an impressive collection.
It includes pieces by Benozzo Gozzoli, Orazio and Artemisia Gentileschi, and other renowned artists. Sometimes they will even have temporary exhibits from Picasso or Dalí.
I walked by Palazzo Blu on my visit to Pisa, but didn’t get an opportunity to head inside as I was heading to the airport to catch my plane. I wanted to mention it as an option, though, as I have heard rave reviews.
Chiesa Di Santa Maria Della Spina
After all that art, take a leisurely walk along the Arno River toward the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina. I really enjoyed walking next to the Arno River, expect the blazing sun beating down on me. Seriously there is no shade!
Along the river, this tiny Gothic church sits right on the riverbank. It is a treat to see. It doesn’t look like it should be where it is, like they built the city around it.
The intricate stone work and delicate spires were my favorite parts.
This is where my personal experience ends. As I mentioned earlier, I had a limited time in Pisa and spent it mostly in the Piazza dei Miracoli, as it is the most famous area in Pisa. After doing some research and speaking with other folks that have been to Pisas, here are some other options for your morning and early afternoon in Pisa.
- Wander down Borgo Stretto: Cross the river and walk on the other side of the Arno toward Borgo Stretto. This pedestrian street is lined with beautiful shops, restaurants and elegant archways that are held up by massive columns. A great place to grab a gelato, you are in Italy after all.
- Piazza Dei Cavalieri And Palazzo Della Carovana: Piazza dei Cavalieri is the Knights’ Square. Walk through the square to see the impressive façade. It is also a vibrant hub with charming cafes and shops.
- If you aren’t interested in doing a self-guided walking tour, another option would be to take a guided tour of Pisa. Since you are in Italy, consider a food tour. I found this highly rated Pisa Food Tour. It starts at 11:30am and guides you to 5 food stops in Pisa. You will enjoy traditional foods, avoid tourist traps and learn from a local food expert. A tasty way to visit Pisa and get to know it from a local’s perspective!
Lunch
My visit to Pisa was much shorter than I would have liked, and I didn’t have the chance to experience lunch here. I wish I had though! The options at the airport were absolutely terrible.
I usually look at Google and find a restaurant with multiple good reviews. If you find a great place, drop a comment below, so others can find it too!
Piazza Dei Miracoli – Square Of Miracles
The Piazza dei Miracoli, or Square of Miracles, is where you’ll spend the rest of your time in Pisa. It is a must-visit on any Tuscany itinerary.
Entry to the piazza itself is free, but you’ll need to book tickets in advance if you want to explore the inside of the buildings.
Important Things to Note
- Cathedral: Free with any other ticket purchase, no fixed time slot required
- Leaning Tower: Opens at 10am until 2 hours before closing
- Children & The Tower: Children under 8 cannot climb the Tower of Pisa
- Tower timing: Timed entry only – if you’re late, you won’t be able to enter
- Tower climb: 251 steps, takes about 30 minutes to visit
- Other buildings: Baptistery, Camposanto, Sinopie Museum, and Opera del Duomo Museum have no timed entry
Ticket Options
- Single building + Cathedral: €8 (except Tower of Pisa: €20)
- All buildings except Tower of Pisa: €11
- All buildings including Tower of Pisa: €27
My Advice
Purchase a timed entrance ticket to the tower for afternoon or early evening when more slots are available and crowds are lighter.
Pisa is famous for its Square of Miracles. It is full of tourists, yes, but it is worth it.
If you’re going to climb the tower, I’d also buy tickets for the other buildings. It’s only €7 more and you’ll get the complete experience.
If you’d like to learn more about the history with a guided tour of the tower and cathedral, this would be a nice small group tour option: Leaning Tower of Pisa & Cathedral: Guided Tour
Buildings In The Square Of Miracles
To help you decide which buildings in the Piazza del Miracoli you’d like to explore, here are some short descriptions of each one.
Tower of Pisa: The iconic leaning tower is obviously the star attraction and the reason most people come to Pisa. Climbing to the top gives you incredible panoramic views of the city and countryside. Plus it’s a unique experience to be inside the world’s most famous architectural “mistake.”
Cathedral (Duomo): This stunning example of Pisan Romanesque architecture contains beautiful frescoes, intricate marble work, and impressive artwork that tells the story of Pisa’s wealthy maritime past. The ornate interior will take your breath away, especially the elaborate pulpit carved by Giovanni Pisano.
Baptistery: The largest baptistery in Italy boasts incredible acoustics that create an almost magical echo effect when voices or music fill the space. The mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, plus the stunning pulpit by Nicola Pisano, makes it a masterpiece.
Camposanto (Cemetery): This peaceful covered cemetery feels like walking through an open-air museum with its collection of ancient Roman sarcophagi and beautiful frescoes. It’s a serene contrast to the busy piazza and offers fascinating insights into medieval burial traditions and art.
Sinopie Museum: Here you can see the preparatory drawings (sinopie) that were discovered beneath frescoes during restoration work in the Camposanto. It’s like getting a behind-the-scenes look at how medieval artists created their masterpieces. Pretty cool!
Opera del Duomo Museum: This museum houses original sculptures and artifacts removed from the cathedral and other buildings for preservation. You’ll see works by Giovanni Pisano and other masters up close, plus learn about the construction and decoration of these incredible monuments.
Dinner
Find somewhere amazing for dinner. Same rules apply as lunch!
You May Also Like: One Day In Pisa: What You Need To Do
Day 2 – Tuscany Itinerary
Day 2 of this itinerary to Tuscany whisks you away to beautiful Siena for a day filled with exploring cobblestone streets and seeing where the road takes you.
Reservations – Day 2
- Travel To Siena: Trains, Buses, Private Transfer, or Car Rental
Travel To Siena
Siena is about 2 hours from Pisa. There are a few different ways to get to Siena.
By Train
From Pisa, getting to Siena by public transportation is possible. You can definitely get around Tuscany by train and bus. The trains aren’t always on time, but they’ll get you there.
To travel from Pisa to Siena by train, you have to take two trains. Remember if you miss your connection because of a delay, you can always take the next train.
By Bus
You can also book a FlixBus, which offers a direct route from Pisa to Siena. This option is cheap and direct, which sounds perfect!
My friend and I used this bus, and while we loved that it was direct, it also showed up super late.
I guess the moral of the story is that public transportation is possible and inexpensive, but not always reliable.
By Private Transfer
Another option is to book a private transfer through services like GetTransfer.com for around €200-300 total. This gives you convenience and reliability without the stress of driving yourself.
By Car
Lastly, you can brave the roads and hire a rental car. Prices will vary depending on when you travel, but this gives you the most flexibility to explore at your own pace. Check out rental options below to see what works for your budget and comfort level.
Where To Stay In Siena – 4 Nights
Finding the right accommodation in Siena can make or break your experience, so I’ve gathered some excellent options based on different family sizes and budgets.
Siena UpTown – Sabrina’s Cozy Apartment: This charming hillside apartment is where we stayed during our Siena visit, and it was absolutely perfect for our needs. Sabrina is an incredibly friendly and helpful host, and the location is excellent. While it might feel a bit snug for a family of four, it’s ideal for three people or fewer who want an authentic Siena experience at an unbeatable price.
Palazzo Piccolomini: For families needing more space, this property offers generous family-friendly layouts with excellent sleeping arrangements for kids and breathtaking views from a quiet setting. Everything you’ll want to explore in Siena is easily walkable, making it perfect for families who want room to spread out without sacrificing convenience.
Residenza d’Epoca “Il Campo”: For an absolutely unbeatable location, imagine opening your window each morning to gaze directly onto Siena’s most famous square! This spacious, immaculately clean property puts you right on the Piazza del Campo with the iconic clock tower as your backdrop. While it comes at a higher price point, the premium is justified when you’re living on one of the most beautiful squares in all of Italy.
Keep The Evening Open
After a day of travel, I like to keep the day open. Making reservations on the day you travel can be stressful. If you run into a delay, you might miss that activity.
Instead, take it slow getting to Siena. Check into your hotel. Explore the neighborhood where you are staying. Go to the grocery store and pick up snacks.
Once you are settled, I would recommend finding some dinner and then hanging out in the square. The famous Piazza del Campo is so cool. Cheryl and I did this on our first evening. We went to the center and sat down. I think that it is where our love of Siena began.
Day 3 – Tuscany Itinerary
Day 3 of this Tuscany travel itinerary takes you to a beautiful cathedral, a restaurant with the best bruschetta we’ve ever eaten, a winery that feels like you are in the middle of the countryside and a local hang out for the evening.
Reservations – Day 3
Siena Cathedral
This morning you will be exploring the Duomo di Siena. It is a stunning church to explore inside and out. Prices vary by season, but start at €5 and children up to 6 are free.
There is a little pastry shop across the square from the church where I grabbed a snack before exploring. It was tasty!
The Cathedral complex has other buildings that you can explore too. If you are interested in accessing the cathedral roofs and the other museums you can buy a combined ticket for €21 or €6 for children 7-11 years of age.
There is also the option to access the other museum buildings without the rooftop access for €14 or €3 for children 7-11 years old.
We didn’t get the chance to explore the inside of the Siena Cathedral and I wish we had. I am especially interested in the rooftop access option.
The Gate of Heaven, as they call it, are a series of rooms that aren’t normally open to the public and provide incredible views inside and outside of the cathedral. Looks like a unique experience.
Lunch In Siena At Il Ghibellino Osteria
Our absolute favorite restaurant in Siena was Il Ghibellino Osteria. The food was consistently delicious every time we went, but the best part that had us coming back again and again was their incredible bruschetta.
I’m not exaggerating when I say it was the best bruschetta we have ever eaten! The bread was perfectly toasted and the fresh toppings were marinated so well.
After eating here, we kept going back. If you only eat at one place in Siena, make it this one. This also means I don’t have a lot of dinner recommendations. We kept eating here!
Vineyard Tour And Wine Tasting
Get ready to dive into the world of Chianti wine! This is exactly the kind of authentic experience I wanted to experience while spending a week in Tuscany.
Hop in a taxi if you don’t have a car and head to La Lastra Winery. You’ll definitely want to book your wine tasting tour in advance. Book this tour: The wine tasting tour we went on. Seriously, do it! It’s fantastic!
The wine is absolutely delicious, the tour was both educational and incredibly fun, the meal was tasty, and the location is absolutely perfect.
You’ll feel like you’re nestled in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, surrounded by rolling vineyards and olive groves, when you’re really only a 10-minute drive from Siena.
Evening In Siena Like A Local
When you get back to Siena, visit the Fortezza Medicea to see the sunset from above the city and experience a cool atmosphere. Watch the sky transform into brilliant oranges and pinks while sipping another glass of wine or just enjoying some water from this historic fort.
It has a fun, relaxed outdoor vibe in the evening and feels like you’re hanging out with locals rather than just being another tourist.
Day 4 – Tuscany Itinerary
Day 4 of this Tuscany itinerary combines wandering through Siena’s historic streets, a magnificent view, art and some time for shopping.
Reservations – Day 4
- None in advance
Get Ready For A Stunning Siena View
Start your day by stopping into a cozy cafe to relax while sipping a perfect cappuccino and enjoying a delicious pastry before beginning your exploration of Siena.
A couple of great options are Torrefazione Fiorella, one of the top places in Siena for coffee and pastries, or Bar Sant’Agata Coffee Break, more of a local spot near the center but away from the busy tourist areas.
After fueling up, head straight to the Torre del Mangia (the famous clock tower) to buy your tickets for climbing the tower.
The ticket office opens at 10am, and you’ll want to go there first thing since tickets sell out quickly and can’t be purchased online in advance.
Ticket Options:
Only The Tower
- Single adult ticket: €10
- Family ticket (2 adults + children 11-18): €25
Combined Ticket
- Museo Civico + Torre del Mangia: €15
Civitas Senensium Ticket
- Museo Civico + Santa Maria della Scala + Torre del Mangia: €20
- Family ticket (2 adults + children 11-18): €40
My friend Cheryl and I purchased the Civitas Senensium Ticket, and it was absolutely worth it! Santa Maria della Scala was incredible and I’d highly recommend getting a combo ticket to experience it.
The Civic Museum was also beautiful to explore.
Tower tickets are for timed entry, but you can visit the Civic Museum and Santa Maria della Scala anytime during opening hours.
I would start with the tower at the time you purchased and take your time at the other museums. Have a long lunch in between, grab a gelato.
Take your time exploring these buildings for the morning and afternoon.
Get Gloriously Lost In The Streets And Do A little Shopping
Siena has so many little streets to explore. Keep your afternoon open for a little wandering. Stop into some shops and pick up a few gifts for your loved ones. Do the things you noticed when you first arrived and didn’t know if you would have time to do.
One thing to note is if you take the street that goes down the center of Siena, it is really cute, but you will be going down a steep hill and climbing a steep hill at the top. If you want to avoid this climb, the roads off to the side are flat! Those side streets also have the shops.
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Day 5 – Tuscany Itinerary
Day 5 of this Tuscany trip itinerary brings us to the enchanting hilltop village of San Gimignano, famous for its medieval towers and stunning panoramic views.
Reservations – Day 5
- None needed in advance
Take A Day Trip To San Gimignano From Siena
To help you make the most of your time, here’s how to spend the perfect day trip to San Gimignano.
Getting To San Gimignano From Siena
Planning your San Gimignano day trip is straightforward, with good transportation options to suit different travel styles. Here’s how to get to San Gimignano from Siena.
By Car: Driving gives you the most flexibility, though you’ll park outside the medieval walls since the historic center is closed to non-resident vehicles.
The best option is P1 Giubileo parking, which costs €1.50 per hour with a daily maximum of €6 and is both the largest and cheapest lot. Other options include P2 Montemaggio (€2/hour, max €20/day) and P3/P4 Bagnaia (€2/hour, max €15/day).
All lots are within easy walking distance of the town gates, with shuttle service available if needed.
Arrive early in the morning to secure good parking, especially during peak summer season!
By Public Transportation: This is the best way to get to San Gimignano for a day trip in my opinion. The direct bus from Siena is easy and costs €6.20 one way (€8 if purchased onboard).
The journey takes about an 1 hour. It is exactly how Cheryl and I visited. Just be warned that the roads are quite windy, so if you get carsick, definitely take Dramamine beforehand.
Also, have cash ready just in case. The credit card machine on our bus wasn’t working, and we had to scramble to find cash for our tickets!
By Tour: Tours from Siena to San Gimignano typically combine visits to other destinations like Volterra or the Chianti region and Montalcino.
While these combinations offer a great way to see more of Tuscany in one day, they definitely make for a very long day of sightseeing!
Here are some top-rated tour options departing from Siena if you are interested:
- From Siena: Chianti and San Gimignano Sunset Tour
- Siena: San Gimignano, Chianti & Montalcino Small-Group Tour
- San Gimignano and Volterra: Day Tour from Siena
These tours are perfect if you want someone else to handle the logistics and don’t mind a packed itinerary. If you prefer a more relaxed pace and not having to follow a group around, the direct bus is better for you.
Top Things To Do In San Gimignano
Wander All The Little Side Streets
Before shops and attractions officially open, spend time getting completely lost in San Gimignano’s maze of narrow cobblestone streets and medieval alleyways.
The early morning hours offer the best experience. You’ll have the ancient pathways almost entirely to yourself. Don’t miss the incredible panoramic viewpoints scattered around the town’s perimeter that offer pretty vistas of the Tuscan countryside.
Wandering any city is probably my favorite activity and in San Gimignano it was no different. I really liked all the narrow alleys. They were so adorable. There was no fear of getting lost as the city, as it is surrounded by a wall, and there aren’t any shady neighborhoods to worry about.
For families with young kids, visit La Rocca Playground in Parco della Rocca. You will find swings, slides, and shade for an entertainment break.
Duomo Di San Gimignano
Around 10am when the Duomo opens, step inside this stunning cathedral.
While the exterior looks relatively simple, the interior is breathtaking with incredible 14th-century frescoes covering every surface, telling biblical stories in vivid detail. The artwork is so well-preserved.
Climb One Of The Medieval Towers
My top pick for an activity to do in San Gimignano is to climb Torre Grossa if you are able. It is the tallest of the 14 remaining medieval towers (there were once 72!). Head to Palazzo Comunale to purchase your San Gimignano pass for access to the Civic Museum, Pinacoteca, and the tower.
Spend just 4 euros more for the full pass that includes the additional museums. It’s absolutely worth it for the small extra cost. Most people skip them as we found out during our trip.
Find A Place For Lunch
By now, you will have worked up an appetite from all that tower climbing and wandering!
We found a little restaurant that had outdoor seating just down the road from the Piazza della Cisterna. I, unfortunately, can’t remember what the name of it was though.
Don’t stress about finding the “perfect” restaurant. Sometimes the most memorable part is simply living in the moment and taking in the atmosphere. And besides, you are in Italy. Even the not so great restaurants will have good food.
Visit Quiet Museums In The Afternoon
When the afternoon sun is beating down and main piazzas are packed with tour groups, duck into the quieter museums included in your upgraded pass.
We visited The Museo Archeologico, Spezieria di Santa Fina, and Galleria d’Arte Moderna after our lunch, and we were greeted with a peaceful escape from the crowds and heat. We almost had these stunning spaces to ourself, and it was only 4 euros extra! Definitely worth it!
Walk A Section Of Via Francigena
Right outside San Gimignano’s walls, you can walk a section of the famous Via Francigena pilgrimage route that stretches from Canterbury to Rome.
I had researched this ancient trail before our trip to Tuscany and wanted to hike a small section of it. I didn’t think it was going to fit into our itineraries at all. However, we accidentally stumbled upon it while wandering around San Gimignano.
This is another reason I like to put away Google maps and see where my feet take me. You find some incredible places without even trying.
Don’t miss out on its incredibly quiet, peaceful views of the rolling Tuscan hills and a chance to literally follow in medieval pilgrims’ footsteps.
Eat The World’s Best Gelato
Something Cheryl and I still regret is missing out on tasting the gelato from the world-famous Gelateria Dondoli. It is known for original flavors like pink grapefruit and sparkling wine. They’ve won numerous international awards.
We didn’t go because of the enourmous lines. At our wine tasting the next day, the family next to us raved about their gelato and said it was worth the wait. I don’t love waiting in long lines, but it sounds like this one might be worth it.
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Day 6 – Tuscany Itinerary
Day 6 of this Tuscany itinerary brings you to the most famous city in Tuscany, Florence. Here you will find beautiful Renaissance art and architecture around every corner.
Reservations – Day 6
Travel To Florence
It’s fairly easy to get to Florence from Siena by train. You can grab your train tickets through Omio, which is exactly how Cheryl and I visited. The journey is straightforward and comfortable.
Taking a bus is actually a little shorter than the train since it follows a more direct route. However, I’m more comfortable traveling by train than bus, so we decided the train was our best bet for this leg of the journey.
Driving is also an easy option if you have a rental car, taking only about an hour between the two cities. This gives you the most flexibility for timing and luggage, though you’ll need to factor in parking once you reach Florence.
All three options work well depending on your comfort level and travel style!
Where To Stay In Florence – 2 nights
Finding the perfect place to stay in Florence can make your visit so much more enjoyable, especially when traveling with family. Here are some options in Florence that have the best value for what they offer.
Condotta 16 Apartments: These stunning 2-bedroom apartments in the heart of Florence offer private balconies or terraces that make all the difference. What I love about these apartments is how bright, airy, and spacious they feel, combined with impeccable cleanliness. While they’re on the pricier side by my standards, the rates are actually mid-range for Florence.
Granduomo Charming Accomodation: Perfectly positioned just steps from Florence’s magnificent Duomo, this welcoming property combines an unbeatable location with exceptional hospitality. The super friendly staff goes above and beyond, including stocking the kitchen with complimentary snacks and drinks. A thoughtful touch that’s especially appreciated when traveling with kids.
Day One In Florence
There’s so much to do and see in Florence. You can easily spend 2 days exploring and not see it all. Since you are traveling from Siena, don’t book any activities too early in case of train or bus delays.
However, Florence is a popular destination and will require some level of planning.
Book Your Duomo Experience: Climb the Dome Or Bell Tower
Go to the impressive Duomo complex to climb either Brunelleschi’s iconic dome (463 steps) or Giotto’s Bell Tower (414 steps) for breathtaking panoramic views over Florence.
The dome climb takes you through stunning interior frescoes, while the bell tower offers a different perspective and better photo opportunities of the cathedral itself.
Both climbs are strenuous with narrow staircases, but the 360-degree views make every step worthwhile if you are able to do them.
The cathedral tickets are timed, so book them for later in the afternoon and do the following activities either before if you have time or afterwards.
Wander The Streets And Get Lost
Like all new destinations, my first step is just explore. Florence’s streets can be busy, especially near the Duomo.
Step away from main tourist routes and duck down side streets where crowds surprisingly thin out just one block away from popular areas.
Drop into one or two of Florence’s legendary leather shops during your wandering. You’ll practically trip over the shops. The city smells of leather.
Admire The Free Art In Piazza Della Signoria
One of the stops during your explorations should be to visit Piazza Della Signoria. This magnificent square serves as an open-air sculpture gallery with Renaissance masterpieces completely free of charge. You heard me right. Free!
Here you’ll find the replica of David, Cellini’s Perseus with the Head of Medusa, and the Loggia dei Lanzi with additional treasures you can admire up close. It’s pretty amazing even if you don’t know anything about art.
Ponte Vecchio: Florence’s Most Interesting Bridge
See the iconic medieval bridge, Ponte Vecchio, with its unique shops built directly into the structure, but be prepared for serious crowds.
The smart approach is to walk along the Arno River on both sides for spectacular views from different angles, then do a quick walk across to experience it firsthand before escaping the tourist traffic.
The Famous Florence Wine Windows
Discover the historic “buchette del vino” dating back to the 17th century, where noble families sold wine through small openings in their palazzos.
Visit places like Buchetta del Vino di Babae, this is the one we went to, for this iconic experience of ordering a glass of wine or prosecco through a tiny window.
The wine is a bit expensive for Italy, but it was really good wine. I wouldn’t choose to only order wine from windows around the city or your will rack up a bill, but it is fun to do at least once.
Dinner At Osteria Vecchio Vicolo: Pasta Perfection
End your day at this cozy osteria serving some of the most incredible pasta in Italy, with perfect al dente texture and amazing flavors. It didn’t hurt that the attractive waiter hit on us too! Ha!
I remember it as one of my favorite pasta dishes that I tried in Italy and we also went to Bologna on this trip! That is high praise.
Watch The Sunset: The Perfect Florence Finale
Reserve a table at a rooftop bar for cocktails and cathedral views at sunset. We chose The Divina Terrazza. Because it is a popular spot, reservations are a must!
Please note that there is a €20 per person booking fee. This fee goes towards your first drink.
Day 7 – Tuscany Itinerary
Day 7 of this 7-day Tuscany itinerary continues your exploration of Florence.
Reservations – Day 7
Pick An Art Gallery: Galleria Dell’Accademia or Uffizi Gallery
Florence doesn’t have just one world famous art gallery, but two. I would start your day at one of them. Both can get extremely busy. With any popular attraction, it is best to go first thing in the morning to beat the rush and have a more enjoyable experience.
Book tickets well in advance as they sell out quickly. Tickets are released at different times in batches, so I would start checking the website about 3 months in advance. Unfortunately, there is no exact time.
What I wouldn’t recommend is exactly what we did. Learn from our mistakes! We decided last minute that we would try to get into the Galleria Dell’Accademia.
I didn’t realize how extremely popular this museum was until that moment. We stood in the long line in the hot blazing sun for about an hour and only moved forward when people gave up and left the line. I truly wonder why they even have the option to buy tickets on the day of and if anyone actually enters the musuem this way. I honestly don’t know and didn’t wait around to find out.
Reserve your tickets in advance and if you can’t get tickets from the official site, go to a reputable third party seller and get your tickets there. I compare prices and options at Tiqets, Get Your Guide and Viator for these types of situations. Here are the links to make it easy for you.
- Tiqets: Accademia Gallery Entry Ticket or Accademia Gallery Guided Tour
- Tiqets: Uffizi Gallery Entry* or Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour
- Get Your Guide: Accademia Gallery Entry* or Accademia Gallery Guided Tour*
- Get your Guide: Uffizi Gallery Entry or Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour
- Viator: Accademia Gallery Entry or Accademia Gallery Guide Tour*
- Viator: Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour*
*Look to be the best option to me.
Free Afternoon to Explore And Do What You Missed
I imagine during your first day in Florence, you missed some of the sights you wanted to see. Use this afternoon to wander some more, get to an attraction you missed the first day, or sit on a patio and have an aperitivo. Aperol spritz anyone?
Sometimes it can feel weird to have time in your travel itinerary with nothing planned, but these moments can turn into some of your favorites of the trip. It gives you time to do the things you missed or just to relax and take it all in. You will thank me afterwards.
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FAQs About Tuscany
Best Time To Visit Tuscany
Wondering about the best time of year to visit Tuscany? The answer depends on what you prioritize: perfect weather, smaller crowds, or budget-friendly prices.
Peak Season
(June – August) Summer brings the warmest weather and longest days, making it perfect for outdoor exploration and extended sightseeing hours. However, this is also when Tuscany is at its busiest and most expensive.
Expect crowded trains, packed tourist sites, and higher accommodation prices. The intense heat can also make walking around medieval hilltop towns quite challenging, especially during midday hours.
Shoulder Season
(April – May & September – October) These months offer the best time to travel for most travelers. Spring brings blooming countryside and pleasant temperatures, while early fall delivers harvest season fun with comfortable weather.
Train schedules run frequently, attractions are still open with reasonable crowds, and accommodation prices are more manageable.
The weather is perfect for walking tours and outdoor dining without the summer heat.
Off-Season
(November – March) Winter and early spring offer the most budget-friendly prices and smallest crowds, but come with trade-offs. Some smaller attractions may have reduced hours or close entirely. Train schedules to more remote destinations might be limited.
However, major cities like Florence, Siena, and Pisa remain alive year-round, and you won’t be sharing famous sites with tons of other people.
I’d recommend shoulder season when public transportation runs at full capacity and you can enjoy comfortable weather for all the walking involved in exploring these beautiful towns.
How Many Days Do You Need In Tuscany?
People always ask me how many days in Tuscany they should plan for. My answer is always the same: it depends! There’s honestly so much to see and do here that you could spend weeks exploring and still discover new places.
Being in Italy is all about slowing down. It’s about embracing that relaxed way of life where long lunches matter and conversations flow as freely as the wine. You’ll quickly realize that rushing from sight to sight misses the entire point of a Tuscan experience.
You will need to pick and choose what you do and where you go. Accept right now that you won’t be able to see it all. That’s actually a good thing because it gives you an excuse to return!
I chose 7 days in Tuscany for this itinerary because I believe it’s the perfect sweet spot. Seven days gives you enough time to see the absolute best sights while also allowing you to slow down and soak in all that authentic charm surrounding you.
You can linger over morning cappuccinos and take afternoon gelato breaks. You could fill 7 days in Tuscany with going to attraction after attraction, but I urge you not to.
Best Way To Get Around Tuscany
Much of Tuscany sits in rolling countryside where it can be more challenging to reach destinations with public transportation, but it’s definitely still possible. I personally don’t like driving in other countries. That’s my husband’s job!
So when my friend and I traveled around Tuscany, we relied entirely on trains and buses. While public transportation isn’t connected to every single town, it absolutely can get you to incredible places.
You can do everything on this 7-day Tuscany itinerary using public transportation without missing out.
The trains in Italy are mostly reliable and comfortable. The buses fill in the gaps for smaller towns. Yes, you’ll need to plan around schedules.
If you want more freedom from schedules and dream of taking that classic Tuscany road trip through winding country roads, renting a car is definitely the way to go. You’ll have the flexibility to stop at vineyards on a whim and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
Don’t want to drive but still want that flexibility? Hire a private driver. It will be more expensive, but you are on vacation. If you are miserable on the bus, then spend the extra if you have it.
All of the options work well. Choose what fits your travel style, your budget and your comfort level.
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Conclusion
This 7-day itinerary isn’t exactly the route my friend and I took through Tuscany, but pretty close. We learned a lot from our vacation and wanted to pass this wisdom along to you.
I can’t wait for you to experience iconic leaning towers, medieval hilltop villages, world-class art and unforgettable wine tastings.
Tuscany has a way of capturing hearts, and I have no doubt you’ll already be planning your return visit before you even leave. Buon viaggio!
