Tuscany

Rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval hilltop towns define Tuscany, a region that embodies the Italian dream. While you can't drive there from Australia, this page serves as an inspirational guide for planning your trip. Picture cypress-lined roads, Renaissance art in Florence, and sun-drenched Chianti wine country. Whether you're exploring on a self-drive itinerary or joining tours, Tuscany rewards slow travel and a taste for la dolce vita.

Highlights & What to See

• Florence (Firenze): The cradle of the Renaissance. Marvel at Michelangelo's David in the Accademia, climb Brunelleschi's Duomo dome for city views, and lose yourself in the Uffizi Gallery's masterpieces.
• Chianti Wine Region: A must for wine lovers. Drive the Chianti Road (SR222) between Florence and Siena, stopping at castles like Castello di Verrazzano for tastings of Chianti Classico.
• Siena: A medieval gem with its shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, the stunning Duomo, and the Palio horse race (July/August). Climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views.
• San Gimignano: Known as the 'Town of Fine Towers', this hilltop village offers medieval skyline and Vernaccia white wine. Walk the walls and visit the Collegiata frescoes.
• Val d'Orcia: UNESCO-listed landscape of rolling hills, cypress trees, and charming towns like Pienza and Montepulciano. Cycle or drive the scenic routes.
• Pisa: The Leaning Tower is just one of the Piazza dei Miracoli's wonders. Combine with a visit to Lucca's intact Renaissance walls.
• Cortona: Made famous by 'Under the Tuscan Sun', this Etruscan hill town offers quiet streets and views over Lake Trasimeno.

Suggested Time to Spend

For a first visit, allow at least 7–10 days to cover the highlights without rushing. A classic loop: Florence (3 nights), Chianti (2 nights in a vineyard agriturismo), Siena (2 nights), and Val d'Orcia (2 nights). If you have 5 days, focus on Florence and Siena with day trips to Chianti and San Gimignano. Tuscany rewards slow travel—drive the backroads, linger over long lunches, and embrace the rhythm of the countryside.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Rome & Lazio: Two hours south by train, Rome's ancient wonders pair perfectly with Tuscan landscapes.
• Cinque Terre: A scenic drive or train ride west to Liguria's colourful coastal villages, ideal for hiking and seafood.
• Bologna & Emilia-Romagna: Foodie heaven—think Parmigiano, prosciutto, and balsamic vinegar—just north of Tuscany.
• Umbria: The 'Green Heart of Italy'—Assisi, Perugia, and Orvieto offer similar hilltop charm with fewer crowds.
• Elba & Tuscan Archipelago: A ferry from Piombino takes you to Napoleon's exile island, with beaches and hiking trails.

Please check official sources for current details.