Introducing: Notes about Tuscany
- Florence is the capital of Tuscany, a region in central Italy.
- Some of Tuscany’s cities and towns – like Florence and Siena – are world-renowned for their stunning architecture and museums. Pisa, another Tuscan town, is most often associated with its 14th-century Leaning Tower, though it contains a number of medieval churches as well.
- In addition to its rich cultural heritage and artistic and architectural treasure, Tuscany is a must-visit destination for foodies.
- The euro is the currency used in Italy, which is part of the European Union.
- Italy typically has C, F, and L socket types; the C and F socket types are also used in Türkiye. However, you can bring a socket adapter with you for L type plugs and sockets with three pins side by side.
Start planning your trip by checking fares and schedules for flights to Italy.
When should I visit Tuscany?
Tuscany is scenic throughout the year, but spring and autumn are considered ideal times to visit the region. The weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists.
Cradle of the Italian Renaissance: Florence
Florence, the capital of Tuscany, certainly looms large in any Tuscany travel guide. The walled city is an open-air museum replete with architectural wonders and illustrious artworks. A highlight of Florence is certainly the Uffizi Museum, which houses an incredible collection of artworks, including Renaissance masterpieces by Michelangelo and Botticelli. In addition, places to visit in Florence include Florence Cathedral, a blend of architectural styles; the Ponte Vecchio, the city’s famous bridge; and Signoria Square, which houses a replica of Michelangelo’s famous David sculpture. Signoria Square is also the center of the city’s social scene.
Tuscan hills: Siena
Siena, which retains its medieval character even today, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s walls, erected between the 14th and 16th centuries, give it a charming ambiance, as do its narrow streets. Within the walled city, places to visit in Siena include Piazza del Campo, the main square, and Torre del Mangia, a prominent tower offering breathtaking views. Siena Cathedral, a stellar example of Italian architecture, is another must-visit place in Siena.
The city with the leaning tower: Pisa
About a two-hour drive from Siena is Pisa, a former port city of art, history, and culture that is best known for its tilted marble tower. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is around 57 meters tall, and its lean is due to its foundation having been set in weak subsoil. The tower, along with a church bell, is part of the Piazza del Duomo ecclesiastical complex, also known as the Square of Miracles. But Pisa deserves more than just a brief visit to the Leaning Tower: some of the city’s other notable attractions are the Camposanto Mausoleum and the Sinopie Museum.
A little pearl of Tuscany: San Gimignano
San Gimignano, a village between Florence and Siena, is another of the region’s medieval gems. Some of the highlights of this picturesque village include Torre Grossa, the town’s tallest tower, which offers the thrill of climbing to the summit and taking in stunning views of the countryside. Piazza della Cisterna, a one-of-a-kind square, is the starting point for exploring the town, featuring an old well. Another significant structure is the Cathedral of San Gimignano, which impresses with its frescoes.
A vibrant cultural center: Lucca
Include Lucca on your itinerary for an amazing tour of Tuscany in Italy. The city, known for its preserved 16th and 17th century defensive walls and its Alpine views, was an important medieval town. Today, Lucca’s attractive streets, squares, and cathedrals captivate visitors. Lucca’s highlights include Piazza del Anfiteatro, a vast Roman-era amphitheater that is now a busy, elliptical-shaped square, and the Church of San Michele in Foro, a majestic Romanesque-style structure.
Tuscany’s pearl of art: Arezzo
Arezzo has a rich history and outstanding architecture, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in Italian history. There’s a lot to discover here: The Arezzo Cathedral’s gorgeous stained-glass windows highlight the region’s architectural grandeur, while Piazza Grande Arezzo, Arezzo’s heart, and the Fraternita Palace Museum are also well worth a visit. Arezzo was also a primary location for Roberto Benigni’s film Life is Beautiful.
From the depths of time to the peak of flavor: Volterra
A Roman colony and later a significant medieval city, Volterra features Etruscan ruins and antique structures. Despite its many attractions, Volterra attracts fewer tourists than other Tuscan destinations, so visitors can stroll the town’s meandering stone streets and visit historic sites at leisure. The Teatro Romano, a Roman-era theatre, and the Etruscan Museum are among the highlights of Volterra.
Dining in Tuscany
Eating in Tuscany is a treat, with plenty of local and regional products and dishes, as well as recipes passed down through generations. Among them:
- Ribollita: A hearty bread, bean, and vegetable soup that is especially preferred in winter.
- Pappa al Pomodoro: A Tuscan-style bread soup made with tomatoes, bread, basil, and olive oil.
- Pecorino Toscano cheese: Made from sheep’s milk, this cheese can be enjoyed on its own or in pasta.
- Cantuccini: Almond biscotti.
If you plan on visiting Rome before or after your Tuscany adventure, check out our list of places to visit in Rome!
