One Week In Tuscany Itinerary – (12 Top Places!)

The Ultimate Renaissance Tour of Italy

Tuscany numbers among the most picturesque and beautiful places in the world, and for good reason!

Olive groves, rolling hills covered in vineyards, hilltop towns seeming as if cast out of time to our modern times, and, capping it all, golden sunlight bathing over you in a blend of warm sun and cool breeze.

In a nutshell, Tuscany has several towns, cities, villages and regions that are perfect tourist destinations for those planning on spending a week in Tuscany. I have done several videos and blogs on the topic of Tuscany and its marvels, but I seem to find myself back here all the time.

A brief recap, Italy is made up of 20 beautiful and very unique regions and Tuscany is a region in central Italy. Its capital, Florence, is home to some of the world’s most recognizable Renaissance art and architecture, by notable Renaissance figures such as Michelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Brunelleschi, the list is endless!

Below are the barebones FACTS about what to find and see in Tuscany, a quick introduction to the Tuscan region that gave birth to the fields of Elysium:

FACTS about what to find and see in Tuscany

1. FLORENCE:

The cradle of the Renaissance, an art lovers paradise and the only place you can consider your setting off point when planning to start your one week in Tuscany. Visiting Florence means visiting iconic sights such as the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio.

2. SIENA:

Known for its iconic medieval cityscape, Siena is famous for the Piazza del Campo and its historic Palio horse race. The Siena Cathedral is also a must-see. If you are also lucky to be here right at the end of August, then thrown out this itinerary and wait for the Palio!

3. PISA:

Setting aside the Leaning Tower, Pisa throws down the gauntlet with not just the the Piazza dei Miracoli with its stunning cathedral and baptistery, but – for me – its Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina.

4. LUCCA

A charming city , especially given the Renaissance walls encircling its historic center and beautiful cobblestone streets. I consider the grace of this city more than worthy of inclusion in this one week in Tuscany itinerary.

5. SAN GIMIGNANO

Often referred to as the “Town of Fine Towers,” San Gimignano is a definite inclusion in this list.

6. VOLTERRA

Is a less frequented gem in my opinion. Volterra is rich in Etruscan history and offers a mix of Roman and medieval remains, including a well-preserved Roman Theatre.

7. MONTEPULCIANO

Montepulciano is mainly here because of its wine, particularly Vino Nobile. This town boasts stunning Renaissance buildings and beautiful views of the Tuscan countryside.

8. PIENZA

Pienza is a lovely small town in Val d’Orcia, famous for being a great producer of a special type of cheese made from sheep’s milk: Pecorino di Pienza! Val d’Orcia is a beautiful valley in the heart of Tuscany with some of the most beautiful hilltop villages in Italy, like Montepulciano, Montalcino, Bagno San Filippo e.t.c.

9. CORTONA

If you have ever seen Under the Tuscan Sun, stopping in Cortona is non-negotiable!

Is one of those hilltop towns and villages I was talking about. Cortona offers spectacular views, charming streets, and a rich history depicted in the MAEC (Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca).

10. AREZZO

I feel Arezzo is an interesting addition because of its unique characteristic via the goldsmithing and antiques here. Plus, Arezzo’s Piazza Grande, and the frescoes of Piero della Francesca in the Basilica of San Francesco, are highlights well deserving of inclusion in an itinerary looking towards spending a week in Tuscany.

11. SATURNIA

The Saturnia Thermal Springs are natural hot spring baths and FREE to experience, which makes them one of my best things to do in Tuscany. There is a pretty large car park here, and a café serving snacks. The Spa treatment is extra though, so carry some cash or a credit card.

12. PITIGLIANO

“Italy’s Little Jerusalem” – The quaint charming old picturesque town located in the southern part of Tuscany, Italy. Known as the “Little Jerusalem” due to its historical Jewish community, Pitigliano is perched on a volcanic tuff cliff and is surrounded by breathtaking countryside views.

13. THE CHIANTI REGION

Generally, if you appreciate wine, dedicate a day Bacchus…as well as to exploring the Chianti countryside, visiting wineries, and enjoying tastings amidst the scenic vineyards.

One Week In Tuscany Itinerary:

What to See, Do, and Experience During Your One Week in Tuscany

Day 1: Florence

• Florence: (Assuming that you arrived the previous day), then you have a full day to explore Florence. The heart of the Renaissance. Notable sites include the majestic Duomo with its impressive dome engineered by Brunelleschi, the Uffizi Gallery housing masterpieces by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, and the iconic Ponte Vecchio, a medieval stone bridge adorned with jewelry shops.
• Continue exploring Florence’s rich offerings such as the Pitti Palace, once the residence of the Medici family, now hosting several galleries, and the Boboli Gardens, an example of Italian Renaissance gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll.
• Go on a hunt for the wine windows of Florence while sampling their fine wine and gelato through their iconic wine windows.

Day 2: Pisa and Lucca

• Travel to Pisa: (Approx. 1 hour, 85 km from Florence)
• Bus to Pisa: Buses from Florence to Pisa operate regularly (approx. €10, takes about 1 hour), departing from Florence Bus Station at Via Santa Caterina da Siena. Trains are more frequent and faster, departing from Santa Maria Novella Station to Pisa Centrale (approx. €9, takes about 50 minutes).
• Pisa: Known for the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but also home to the beautiful Duomo and Baptistery in the Piazza dei Miracoli, showcasing impressive architectural and artistic works.
• Travel to Lucca: (Approx. 30 minutes, 20 km from Pisa)
• Bus/Taxi to Lucca: From Pisa, buses (approx. €4, takes about 50 minutes) and trains (approx. €3.50, takes about 25 minutes) are available. Buses depart from Pisa Bus Station near Pisa Centrale and trains from Pisa Centrale to Lucca Station.
• Lucca: Famous for its intact Renaissance walls that one can walk or cycle around. The city’s charming streets are lined with antique shops, and its Romanesque Lucca Cathedral houses some intriguing artworks.
• Sleep Overnight in Lucca.

Day 3: San Gimignano and Volterra

• Travel to San Gimignano: (Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes, 70 km from Lucca)
• Bus to San Gimignano: From Lucca, it’s best to travel via Florence due to better connections. Take a train back to Florence (approx. €7, 1.5 hours) and then a bus to San Gimignano (approx. €6, takes about 1 hour 15 minutes from Florence).
• San Gimignano: Distinguished by its medieval towers, the town offers a step back in time. Visitors can climb the Torre Grossa for panoramic views and explore the Piazza della Cisterna.
• Travel to Volterra: (Approx. 45 minutes, 40 km from San Gimignano)
• Bus to Volterra: From San Gimignano, take a bus (approx. €2.50, takes about 1 hour), which departs several times a day at the San Gimignano bus Station.
• Volterra: This town provides a blend of Etruscan, Roman, and Medieval architecture, with highlights including the well-preserved Roman Theatre and the Etruscan Museum that showcases ancient artifacts.
• Overnight in or near Volterra.

Day 4: Siena

• Travel to Siena: (Approx. 50 minutes, 50 km from Volterra)
• Bus/Train to Siena: From Volterra, take a bus to Colle di Val d’Elsa (approx. €2, takes about 40 minutes) and then another to Siena (approx. €3, takes about 45 minutes). Direct trains are not available, so buses are the primary mode of transport.
• Siena: A medieval city known for the Piazza del Campo, the heart of the city and the venue for the famous Palio horse race. The Siena Cathedral (Duomo) is a stunning example of Italian Romanesque Gothic architecture.
• Overnight in Siena.

Day 5: Montepulciano and Pienza

• Travel to Montepulciano: (Approx. 1 hour, 60 km from Siena)
• Bus to Montepulciano: From Siena, buses run directly to Montepulciano (approx. €5, takes about 1.5 hours).
• Montepulciano: Renowned for its Vino Nobile wine, visitors can tour vineyards and taste local wines. The town itself is a treasure trove of Renaissance buildings and stunning vistas over the Tuscan landscape.
• Travel to Pienza: (Approx. 18 minutes, 14.3 km from Montepulciano)
• Bus to Pienza: From Montepulciano, take a bus to Pienza (approx. €3, takes about 16 min).
• Pienza: Perched on a hill, this town offers stunning views over the surrounding valley. Pienza is famous for being a great producer of a special type of cheese made from sheep’s milk: Pecorino di Pienza!
• Overnight in Pienza.

Day 6: Arezzo and Cortona

• Travel to Arezzo: (Approx. 59 minutes, 61 km from Pienza)
• Arezzo: Known for its antiques market and the Piazza Grande, surrounded by various architectural styles. The Basilica of San Francesco is most famous for Piero della Francesca’s frescoes depicting the Legend of the True Cross.
• Travel to Cortona: (Approx. 39 minutes, 30 km from Arezzo)
• Cortona: Perched on a hill, this town offers stunning views over the surrounding valley and Lake Trasimeno. Its museums and churches, such as the Diocesan Museum and the Santa Margherita Sanctuary, are filled with notable artworks.
• Overnight in Cortona.

Day 7: Pitigliano and Saturnia

• Travel to Pitigliano: (Approx. 2 hours, 116.4 km from Cortona)
• Pitigliano: Also known as Little Jerusalem,  due to the historical presence of a Jewish community and a Synagogue. Standing by the road you’ll get a gorgeous view of the whole town perched high up on a volcanic tuff cliff.
• Travel to Sartunia Thermal Baths: (Approx. 32 minutes, 26 km from Pitigliano)
• After all the traveling, a spa is much needed hence why I added Saturnia hot springs to the end of this list.

Optional: Day Trip to Chianti Region

• Travel to Chianti: Day trips can typically be done from Florence (Approx. 45 minutes, 35 km) or Siena (Approx. 30 minutes, 20 km). Explore the vineyards and enjoy wine tastings.
• Chianti: Famed for its scenic beauty, vineyards, and olive groves. A tour through Chianti is a delight for all senses, featuring wine tastings, gourmet local food, and the serene, rolling hills of Tuscany.

Accommodations, and What to Expect in Terms of Prices

Over my travels in and around Tuscany, I managed to grab a few critical details on what the accommodations scene is like in Tuscany. Now, be aware that some of the prices are DEFINTELELY going to change once the tourist season is in, and that what I got is what I got. If you can, get online and get in touch with their front desks or managers for a clearer picture of what to expect when you do get on your one week in Tuscany thriller.

In any case, they should give you a rough idea of what to expect:

Florence

• Hotel Bodoni – Cozy, centrally located with basic amenities. Price range: Low, around €50-€80 per night.
• Hotel Laurus al Duomo – Offers comfortable rooms with excellent views of the Cathedral. Price range: Medium, around €120-€180 per night.
• The St. Regis Florence – A historic hotel offering luxury rooms and top-notch service overlooking the Arno River. Price range: High, around €400-€600 per night.
• Airbnb Options: Various apartments are available in the historic center with a range of amenities. Price range: Low to High, around €60-€250 per night, so work that tongue.

Pisa

• Helvetia Pisa Tower – Simple rooms just a few steps from the Leaning Tower. Price range: Low, around €45-€70 per night.
• Hotel Bologna – A refined hotel with elegant decor and a tranquil garden, close to the central station. Price range: Medium, around €100-€150 per night.
• Allegroitalia Pisa Tower Plaza – Features contemporary rooms and a pool, with views of the Leaning Tower. Price range: High, around €180-€300 per night.

Lucca

• Albergo San Martino – Charming and affordable, right in the historic center. Price range: Low, around €60-€90 per night.
• Hotel Ilaria – Comfortable and well-equipped, located within the city walls. Price range: Medium, around €110-€160 per night.
• Villa Casanova Lucca – A beautiful villa outside the city, offering luxury and serenity. Price range: High, around €200-€350 per night.

San Gimignano

• Casa de’ Potenti – Economical and rustic rooms in the heart of the city. Price range: Low, around €50-€80 per night.
• Hotel La Cisterna – Situated in a picturesque square with lovely views of the surrounding countryside. Price range: Medium, around €90-€140 per night.
• Hotel Bel Soggiorno – Offers elegant rooms with spectacular views of the Tuscan landscape. Price range: High, around €150-€250 per night.

Volterra

• Albergo Etruria – Located in the historic center, offering clean and basic accommodation. Price range: Low, around €60-€80 per night.
• Hotel San Lino – A former convent with a pool, located within the city walls. Price range: Medium, around €100-€150 per night.
• Park Hotel le Fonti – Located just below the town, it has a panoramic view of the hills and a relaxing pool area. Price range: High, around €130-€200 per night.

Siena

• Piccolo Hotel Etruria – Family-run hotel right in the heart of Siena. Price range: Low, around €60-€90 per night.
• Hotel Athena – Located within the city walls with a terrace that offers stunning views. Price range: Medium, around €120-€180 per night.
• Grand Hotel Continental Siena – A 17th-century palace offering luxury accommodations in the historic center. Price range: High, around €250-€400 per night.

Montepulciano

• Albergo Il Marzocco – Affordable and centrally located within the historic town. Price range: Low, around €70-€100 per night.
• Hotel Panoramic – Offering great views and a swimming pool, just outside the town center. Price range: Medium, around €100-€150 per night.
• Villa Cicolina – A former country estate offering luxury accommodations with a traditional Tuscan experience. Price range: High, around €200-€300 per night.

Cortona

• Hotel Italia – A charming hotel located within the historic center with basic facilities. Price range: Low, around €70-€100 per night.
• Hotel San Michele – Central location with beautifully decorated rooms reflecting the area’s history. Price range: Medium, around €120-€170 per night.
• Il Falconiere – This luxury resort offers refined dining and a spa, located on a country estate. Price range: High, around €300-€500 per night.

Arezzo

• Hotel Cecco – Centrally located, providing straightforward accommodations. Price range: Low, around €50-€80 per night.
• Hotel Minerva – Modern facilities and good location for exploring the town. Price range: Medium, around €90-€140 per night.
• Relais La Torre – A boutique hotel in a medieval tower, offering a unique stay. Price range: High, around €150-€250 per night.

Tuscany Weather and Climate

Tuscany has a Mediterranean climate made up of mild winters, and hot, dry summers. The region’s weather can also vary slightly depending on where you are: i.e., the coastal areas versus inland hills and valleys. I did a compilation of data from what I could source and this is the basic breakdown of what the ultimate Renaissance one week in Tuscany getaway feels like:

Spring (March to May)

• Temperature: Ranges from 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F). It starts cool in March, and warms up significantly by the time it gets to May.
• Weather: Generally mild and pleasant with increasingly sunny days. Rainfall also decreases towards the end of spring.
• Wind: Good, moderate winds, and particularly noticeable in coastal areas.
• Humidity: Moderate to low humidity that is simply ideal if you are looking to spend a week in Tuscany.

Summer (June to August)

• Temperature: Ranges from 18°C to 30°C (65°F to 86°F), with July and August being the hottest months. Planning your one week in Tuscany between June and July would be ideal.
• Weather: Hot and dry, especially when you are inland. The coastal areas benefit from sea breezes that moderate the temperatures slightly, making sunbathing the major activity most guys spending a week in Tuscany done.
• Wind: Occasional sea breezes along the coast. Inland areas experience less wind.
• Humidity: Generally low, but can feel higher during particularly hot days.

Autumn (September to November)

• Temperature: Ranges from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Starts warm in September and cools down significantly by November.
• Weather: Similar to spring, autumn is mild and enjoyable, though rain is more frequent and can be heavy at times.
• Wind: Winds pick up slightly, especially as the season progresses.
• Humidity: Increases with the onset of more frequent rains.

Winter (December to February)

• Temperature: Ranges from 1°C to 10°C (34°F to 50°F). It can be colder at night and in hill towns.
• Weather: Mild compared to northern European and North American standards. Snow is rare, except in the mountains like the Apennines, where it’s more common.
• Wind: Can be brisk, especially in coastal and elevated areas.
• Humidity: Generally higher during the winter months due to increased precipitation.

Peak Tourist Periods

And if you are like me where you like to try out a place in its different flavors, then picking out the season will also depend on the kind of company you will meet. In general though, you are bound to enjoy your one week in Tuscany regardless of when you chose to travel because everyone else around you is there for the same reason!

Summer (June to August):

1. Demographics: Families, young travelers, and couples.
2. Activities: Sightseeing, beach vacations, festivals, and wine tasting.
3. Preferred Locations:
   • Florence: Popular for the rich art, history, and overall style of the city that make a few days in Florence almost as good as one week in Tuscany.
   • Pisa and Lucca: Seems to attract those interested in historic sites and the general relaxed city experiences.
   • Chianti Region: Favored by wine enthusiasts who go for vineyard group and individual tours.
   • Tuscan Coast: These are mainly Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi, and are popular due to the beachside relaxation.
4. Characteristics: Hot and sunny weather ideal for outdoor and cultural tourism.

Early Autumn (September to early October):

1. Demographics: Mostly older adults, couples, food and wine enthusiasts.
2. Activities: Grape harvests, wine festivals, culinary tours.
3. Preferred Locations:
   • San Gimignano and Montepulciano: Most in this demographic come here because of the vineyards and historic charm.
   • Siena: Ideal for experiencing the wine harvest season and less crowded sightseeing given the mad Palio crowds are mostly gone. Even so, that one week in Tuscany spend in Siena over the Palio week can be something older crowds and couples might enjoy.
4. Characteristics: Warm, less intense weather and the onset of autumn colors make Siena perfect for those who prefer a more laid-back tourist experience in their one week in Tuscany travel.

Late Autumn to Winter (late October to February):

1. Demographics: Budget travelers, including digital nomads, students, and younger couples, plus visitors interested in winter holidays spent over that one week in Tuscany.
2. Activities: Cultural exploration, enjoying local cuisine, and seasonal events, including:
   • Lucca Comics & Games (Late October – Early November) – Held in Lucca, this is one of the largest comics festivals in the world, drawing enthusiasts of comics, games, and cosplay from across the globe.
   • Florence Biennale (October/November) – An international event held in Florence, featuring contemporary art exhibitions from artists around the world. It’s a key event for art lovers and collectors seeking to spend a special one week in Tuscany in the most fabulous city in Italy.
   • San Miniato Truffle Fair (November) – San Miniato hosts this prestigious white truffle fair on weekends in November. The event includes truffle tasting, sales, and exhibitions, celebrating one of the region’s most esteemed culinary treasures.
   • Arezzo Antique Fair (First Sunday of the month and preceding Saturday) – Arezzo hosts Italy’s oldest and largest antique fair. The fair fills the streets of the medieval town center, offering a vast array of antiques and collectibles.
   • Siena’s Christmas Market (December) – Taking place in Piazza del Campo, this market is filled with crafts, gifts, decorations, and local culinary treats, all set against the backdrop of Siena’s medieval architecture.
   • Capodanno di Follonica (New Year’s Eve) – Follonica celebrates New Year’s Eve with fireworks, live music, and parties along the beach, making it a lively spot for ringing in the new year, and an especially special experience for that one week in Tuscany.
   • Festa della Befana (January 6) – This traditional holiday event occurs throughout Tuscany but is particularly charming in smaller towns. It celebrates the Epiphany with parades and the figure of La Befana, a witch who delivers gifts to children.
   • Pitti Uomo (January) – Florence becomes the fashion capital of the world during Pitti Uomo, where designers, buyers, and photographers gather to set the men’s fashion trends for the year, making for a glamorous one week in Tuscany.
3. Preferred Locations:
   • Florence and Siena: Mainly opted due to the cultural and historical exploration that can come without the crowds. These cities also host beautiful Christmas markets and winter festivals.
   • Arezzo: Known for its monthly antique market and the annual Giostra del Saracino.
   • Cortona and Volterra: Attract those interested in quieter, small-town atmospheres with rich histories.
4. Characteristics: Cooler temperatures and higher humidity, with occasional rain, favorable for indoor activities like museum visits and dining in traditional Tuscan restaurants.

Shoulder Season (March to May):

1. Demographics: Seasoned travelers, retirees, and photography enthusiasts looking to capture spring blooms and landscapes.
2. Activities: Sightseeing with more comfortable temperatures, enjoying spring festivals.
3. Preferred Locations:
   • Val d’Orcia: Particularly appealing in spring for its iconic landscapes.
   • Pisa and Lucca: Enjoyable before the onset of the summer crowds.
4. Characteristics: Mild and increasingly warm weather, ideal for exploring both the countryside and the cities.

Tips and Hacking Your Way Through the Ultimate Renaissance One Week in Tuscany Tour

1. Transport Tips:

1. Train Services: Trenitalia operates extensive train services between major towns. Booking in advance can secure better rates.
2. Bus Services: TIEMME (Toscana Mobilità) operates most bus services in Tuscany. Schedules can be found on their website, and it’s wise to check the latest timetables a day before travel.
3. Taxis: Available in all towns, convenient for short distances or when bus/train schedules are not favorable. Taxi stands are usually found near major tourist spots and stations.

2. Travel Insurance:

• Recommended Providers: Consider well-known travel insurance providers like Allianz Global Assistance, World Nomads, or AXA. Ensure they cover activities planned in Tuscany and check for COVID-19-related coverages.
• Coverage Essentials: Look for policies that include medical expenses, theft, loss, trip cancellations, and emergency repatriation.

3. Health Precautions:

• Pharmacy and Hospital Locations: Use websites like farmacieaperte.it to find open pharmacies in Italy. For hospital locations and emergency medical services, the Tuscany Region’s official health website can provide reliable information.
• Protection Against the Sun and Heat: Summers can be particularly hot; make sure to stay hydrated, apply sunscreen regularly, and wear hats and light clothing.

4. Transport Safety:

• Ticket Validation: Italian buses and trains require you to validate your ticket before boarding. Look for small machines at bus stops or in train stations to avoid fines. Remember to be EXCESSIVELY careful on anything to do with tickets because the fines can be extortionate!
• Timetables and Planning: Utilize the official Trenitalia website (trenitalia.com) or regional bus services like TIEMME (tiemme.it) for schedules and route planning.

5. Road Safety:

• Driving Laws: Familiarize yourself with Italian driving laws; the Automobile Club d’Italia (aci.it) provides comprehensive information.
• Safe Parking: Always use marked parking areas and avoid leaving valuables in your car.

6. Personal Safety:

• Pickpocketing and Scams: High tourist areas are common spots for theft. Keep your belongings secure and be wary of unusually friendly strangers or unsolicited help. I did a blog and video on common scams you SHOULD expect to hit you in Rome, and I think some – if not most – carry over well in Tuscany as well.
• Document Copies: Keep photocopies or digital copies of your passport, credit cards, and travel insurance in a separate location from the originals.

7. Cultural Respect:

• Dress Codes: When visiting religious sites like the Duomo in Florence, ensure shoulders and knees are covered. A lightweight scarf or wrap is useful.

8. Financial Safety:

• Using ATMs: Use ATMs attached to banks during operational hours to reduce the risk of card skimming and theft.
• Bank Notification: Before leaving, inform your bank of your travel plans to ensure your debit or credit cards remain active abroad.

9. Emergency Contacts:

• Emergency Numbers: 112 is the pan-European emergency number, valid across Italy for police, fire, and medical emergencies.
• Embassy Contact Information: Identify your country’s embassy or consulate nearest to Florence or Rome. For example, U.S. citizens can refer to the U.S. Embassy in Rome (it.usembassy.gov).

10. Language:

• Language Tools: Apps like Google Translate or Duolingo – or my own that I intend to release sometime in the next 20 years – can be handy for basic Italian phrases useful in rural or less tourist-centric areas.

11. Weather Preparedness:

• Weather Information: Check weather forecasts on websites like ilMeteo.it or the Weather Channel to prepare for daily activities, especially in transition seasons.