Tuscany, renowned for world-class art and breathtaking landscapes of Vineyard plush hills hugging the Mediterranean Sea, offers a memorable experience with its distinct charm. It retains its medieval-era heritage with Etruscan settlements and hamlets dating back to 10,000 BC. This Central Italian region offers several attractions and the most beautiful place in Tuscany, including the Renaissance city of Florence and the architectural wonder of Pisa. From the magnificent views of Stone-built Bell towers to driving down twisting roads of lush-green Vineyards on both sides, discover the unexpected treasures of the ‘golden land and the flowering heart of Italy’.
Most Beautiful Places In Tuscany
Tuscany has ten provinces, each with unique experiences. While the most renowned tourist attraction is the art City of Florence, there is much more to explore in the beating heart of Italy. Culture, food, architecture – Tuscany offers innumerable treasures to even the most discerning traveller. Here are the best places places to visit in and around Tuscany:
1. Piazza di Duomo
Image Credit: Anajim for Wikimedia Commons
Constructed during the 14th century, Duomo is the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore that is built on the premise of an ancient Roman temple. Truly an architectural marvel, this magnificent structure is a testament to the excellence of renowned medieval architects and sculptors like Giovanni Pisano, Pinturicchio, Donatello, and Michelangelo. Its interiors symbolise the epitome of Roman-Gothic architecture with striped walls, vaults painted with gold stars, and depictions of Biblical scenes executed by 40 painters over 200 years. Marvel at the stunning graffiti designs, sculptors, statues, and portraits by maestros of the Middle Ages.
How to Reach: You can fly to Florence and take a bus (11 km) or a train from Bologna or Rome.
Timings: Mon-Sat
Opening Hours: 10:15 AM – 3:45 PM
Ticket Fee: €20
Nearest Railway Station: Firenze Santa Maria Novella Station
Nearest Airport: Florence Airport
Also Read: Tourist Places In Italy
2. Leaning Tower
Image Credit: Irina_kukuts for Wikimedia Commons
The Leaning Tower of Pisa needs no introduction. It is an iconic bell tower standing 58 m tall with an astonishing 3.9m tilt. Surprisingly, in a city with plentiful architectural wonders, the tower’s tilt is due to weak subsoil. After centuries of restoration work, the 1990s project to stabilise the tower was successful and is believed to last for three centuries. 45 people are allowed at a time with 251 steps to climb. But once you reach the top, you will be welcomed by the warm Mediterranean breeze and breathtaking views of Pisa’s architectural excellence. Cameras are the only thing allowed to the top, so remember to carry them upon your visit.
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 8 PM
Timings: Mon-Sun
Ticket Fee: From €25 onwards
How to Reach: You can take a train to the Pisa Central Station, bus, taxi, or shuttle to the Leaning Tower of Pisa (3.0km).
Nearest Railway Station: Pisa Centrale
Nearest Airport: Pisa International Airport
3. Uffizi Gallery
Image Credit: dimitrisvetsikas1969 for Pixabay
Florence was the beating heart of the Renaissance and has dozens of art galleries worth the visit. However, with over 2 million visitors annually, the Uffizi Gallery takes the mantle of the renowned art museum and most beautiful place in Tuscany. Located in the marvellous Pina Signoria by the Arno River, it hosts thousands of sculptures and paintings from Italian masters like Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, Giotto, and more that cover the entire Renaissance period. Take a guided tour of the gallery to learn more about each masterpiece. With its unparalleled artistic aura and a rooftop cafe, this 16th-century building will keep you hooked for hours.
Opening Hours: 8:15 AM – 6:50 PM
Timings: Tuesday – Sunday
Ticket Fee: €12 – €25
How to Reach: Take a train to the Santa Maria Novella terminus and take a taxi or bus (2.5 km).
Nearest Railway Station: Florence Santa Maria Novella
Nearest Airport: Florence Airport
Related Post: Italy Travel Tips
4. Pinacoteca Nazionale
Image Credit:dimitrisvetsikas1969 for Pixabay
The recently renovated Siena’s 14th-century art gallery offers a distinct experience to its Florentine counterpart. While the Renaissance blossomed just a few miles north, the collection at Sienas’s museum includes Gothic masterpieces by masters from the Sienese School of Art. Some artworks to behold are Duccio’s Madonna with Child and Four Saints, Adoration of the Magi by Bartolo di Fredi, The Annunciation of the Virgin Mary by Taddeo di Bartolo, and The Madonna Enthroned with Saint Nicholas and the Prophet Elijah by Pietro Lorenzetti, amongst others. While the Florence art scene excels in emotion and perspective, Siena’s Gothic architecture, rooted in religious expressions, is worth exploring. This is one of the most beautiful place in Tuscany.
How to Reach: You can take a train to Siena Central Station and then a bus, taxi, or shuttle to the Pinacoteca Nazionale (7.2km).
Timings: Mon-Sun (2nd & 4th Sundays of every month closed)
Opening Hours: Monday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday – 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM, and Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday – 2 PM – 7 PM.
Ticket Fee: Adult – £8, Children – £2
Nearest Railway Station: Firenze Santa Maria Novella Station
Nearest Airport: Amerigo Vespucci Airport
5. Castello Di Ama
Image Credit:tassilo111 for Pixabay
The Castello Di Ama offers a soulful escape for outdoor adventure seekers who want to explore the open most beautiful place in Tuscany countryside. This is where centuries-old winemakers have crafted acclaimed wines such as the ‘L’Apparita’ merlot and the Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG. Alongside vineyards and a winery, this agricultural estate has 14 impressive sculptures by famous artists like Louise Bourgeois, Kendell Geers, Daniel Buren, and more. There is also a boutique hotel and a restaurant to cater to tourists who visit this heritage vineyard estate that retains 12th-century traditions. Being a winery, you can opt for a paid wine-tasting spree and sample lip-smacking drinks in this picturesque Italian countryside.
How to Reach: You can take a train to Montevarchi-Terran and a taxi to the Ama Gaiole in Chianti (31 km).
Timings: Monday – Saturday
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ticket Fee: €25 (wine tasting)
Nearest Railway Station: Montevarchi-Terran
Nearest Airport: Pisa International Airport
Related Post: Things To Do In Sardinia
6. Pitigliano
Image Credit: Clemens M. Brandstetter, Buers for Wikimedia Commons
Beyond the artistic and architectural excellence of Tuscany lies a medieval town on a hilltop that offers a different experience. Another Etruscan settlement on a tuff rock, this picturesque little town consists of age old buildings and tombs below the houses. While the town itself is quite beautiful, the panoramic views it offers of the Grosseto countryside are beyond ordinary. Strolling through the small alleys of Pitigliano, you can stumble upon restaurants and shops from where you can buy a little memorabilia. You can also stay a couple of days in Pitigliano to soak in the charm of this lovely medieval town at the most beautiful place in Tuscany.
How to Reach: You can fly to Grosseto Airport and take a train, bus, or taxi to Pitrigliano (82.2 km)
Timings: open 24 hours
Opening Hours: open around the year except Saturday
Ticket Fee: €5 per peron
Nearest Railway Station: Pitigliano Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Grosseto Airport
7. Saturnia
Just a half an hour drive from Pitigliano will reveal the enthralling landscape surrounding the famous hot water springs of Saturnia. The waters of the spring are laden with sulfate and minerals, and stay a balmy 37°C all year around – making it ideal for a relaxing dip. There is also a luxury hotel spa nearby if you want to stay at this gorgeous setting for a few days. While taking a dip here is a soothing experience, be aware that it is always crowded all year around. This is one of the most beautiful place in Tuscany.
How to Reach: You can take a train to Albinia, and then a bus to Manciano and another to Saturnia (47.5 km)
Timings: Monday – Sunday
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (November – March) and 9:30 AM – 7 PM (April – November)
Ticket Fee: €25 – €50
Nearest Railway Station: Albinia Station
Nearest Airport: Perugia International Airport
Related Post: Restaurants In Verona
8. Argentario
Image Credit:mottamaurizio58 for Wikimedia Commons
Having a long coastline full of dreamy beaches, sunbathing and water sports are a must for your Tuscany itinerary. Argentario is amongst the most famous beaches in the region that originates from an island and stretches into the mainland. Like most other beaches in Tuscany, it is a volcanic sand beach. Taking a stroll here is akin to walking through a microcosmic paradise. Spectacular cliffs descend into the clear Mediterranean waters as sandy and pebble beaches dot the region. You can also take a boat to the nearby islands of Giannutri and Giglio, or explore the many bays and coves of stupendous beauty that are only accessible by sea. This is one of the most beautiful place in Tuscany to explore.
How to Reach: You can fly to Rome Airport and take a bus or train to Argentario (117.3 km)
Timings: Monday – Sunday
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (November – March) and 9:30 AM – 7 PM (April – November)
Ticket Fee: no fee
Nearest Railway Station: Orbetello-Monte Argentario
Nearest Airport: Rome International Airport
9. Versilia
Image Credit:simone_giannini for Wikimedia Commons
Versilia is an extended coastline of more than 20 kms and a popular summer tourist destination. This coastline consists of sandy beaches, lush green parks and medieval villages in the stunning backdrop of the Apuan Alps. Every beach has bathing facilities, elegant cabins, and tents that attract tourists from Italy and abroad all year long. The coastal life thrives in Versilia with many clubs, discotheques, and bars that define its nightlife.
How to Reach: You can fly to Pisa and take a bus or a taxi to Versilia (34.4 km)
Timings: Monday – Sunday
Opening Hours: open 24 hours
Ticket Fee: no fee
Nearest Railway Station: Viareggio Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Pisa International Airport
Related Post: Places To Visit In Milan In 1 Day
10. Accademia Gallery
Image Credit: Michelle Maria for Wikimedia Commons
Back to the artistic lores of Renaissance, the Accademia Gallery should be on every art enthusiast’s to-do list. Home to iconic sculpture of David and several other masterpieces by Michelangelo, the Accademia Gallery, along with the Uffizi Gallery, are the most crowded places in Florence. Besides the Italian maestro, you can also find wood paintings and marble sculptures by other greats like Botticelli and Giambologna.
How to Reach: You can fly to Florence and take a train to Santa Maria Novella and then a bus or a taxi to the Academica Gallery (7.8 km)
Timings: Tuesday – Sunday
Opening Hours: 8:15 AM – 6:50 PM
Ticket Fee: €20
Nearest Railway Station: Santa Maria Novella
Nearest Airport: Amerigo Vespucci Airport
11. Natural History Museum
Image Credit: Lorenzofaoro for Wikimedia Commons
Dating back to the 16th century, the National History Museum at the University of Pisa is a goldmine of natural and scientific artifacts. Located inside the historic premises of Certosa di Calci, it is one of the world’s most renowned naturalistic museums where one can find fossils, and zoology specimens spread over 5000 square meters and three floors. Of notable importance are the Gallery of Cetaceans, the Paleontology section, and the largest freshwater aquarium in the country. The museum also hosts educational activities where you can learn much about history, science, and nature which is considered as the most beautiful place in Tuscany.
How to Reach: You can fly to Pisa and take a train or a bus to the University of Pisa (15 km)
Timings: Monday – Sunday
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Ticket Fee: €12
Nearest Railway Station: Pisa Central Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Pisa International Airport
Related Post: Hidden Gems In Venice
12. Cappella Della Madonna Vitaleta
Image Credit: Vignaccia76 for Wikimedia Commons
When visiting the most beautiful place in Tuscany, you cannot afford to miss the churches and chapels that are nothing short of architectural and cultural gems. Driving through the winding roads of Val d’Orcia, you will stumble upon the chapel of Madonna di Vitaleta – a picturesque and symmetrical architectural marvel that seamlessly blends yet distinguishes itself from the surrounding landscape. Built during the 12th century, the chapel was famous for its sculpture of Madonna, which was later removed to a nearby church in San Quirico. The neoclassical architecture during its renovation in the 19th century adds even more charm to the building as well as surroundings. A single visit to this chapel will enchant you. It has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and for good reason.
How to Reach: You can fly to Perugia international airport and take a train to Chiusi Chianchiano Terme. From there, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to Madonna di Vitaleta chapel (102 km)
Timings: Monday – Sunday
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Ticket Fee:Adult € 7 and € 5 for children
Nearest Railway Station: Chiusi Chianchiano Terme
Nearest Airport: Perugia International Airport
13. Castello Di Brolio
Image Credit:Riva Berlin for Wikimedia Commons
The mysteries and folklores of Castello Di Brolio – one of the most beautiful place in Tuscany – are plentiful. Locals tell tales of paranormal sightings, but it looks nothing short of a fairytale castle. Its isolated location adds even more allure to this castle. Nestled amidst the lush greens of the Chianti countryside, Castello Di Brolio offers breathtaking views of the surroundings. Its raised position gives panoramic views of the region, with red brick exteriors, turrets, and Renaissance inspired gardens in hindsight. The best part? The castle is part of the oldest winery in Italy – so go for a wine tasting spree and behold the architectural grandeur and picturesque landscapes of this gothic castle.
How to Reach: You can take a train to Montevarchi-Terran and a taxi to Castello Di Brolio (29.4 km).
Timings: Monday – Sunday
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Ticket Fee: €7
Nearest Railway Station: Montevarchi-Terran
Nearest Airport: Florence International Airport
Related Post: Places Near Naples
14. Basilica Of Santa Croce
Image Credit:guy_dugas for Pixabay
The Basilica of Santa Croce mesmerises as soon as it meets the eye. Popular as the burial place of greats like Michelangelo, and Galileo Galilee, the Basilica was built in the 13th century by the Franciscan order. A living testament of excuisite craftsmanship, Santa Croce consists of beautiful chapels and frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis. An exterior marvel facade was added later in 1893, which further accentuates the charm and awe-inspiring architecture of Santa Croce. There are a total of 16 chapels, a bell tower, and a crypt – all worth your visit and time.
How to Reach: You can fly to Florence and take a team or a taxi to the Basilica Santa Croce (12.3 km)
Timings: Monday – Saturday
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Ticket Fee: €8
Nearest Railway Station: Santa Croche Del Lago
Nearest Airport: Florence International Airport
15. Antro Del Corcia
Image Credit: Andrea Massagli for Wikimedia Commons
Taking a break from the art and architectural spectacles of Tuscany, make a visit to the Antro del Corchia caves in the province of Lucca. This is the largest network of caves in Italy, and conceals itself under the hamlet of Leviglani di Stazzema. Created by natural entities, the underground complex spans 70 km and consists of tunnels leading to galleries under the Apuan Alps. The caves are open to public accompanied by guides to navigate through tall stalacite structures to considered as the most beautiful place in Tuscany.
How to Reach: You can fly to Florence and take a train to Pietrasanta and then a taxi to Antro del Corchia (17.3 km)
Timings: Monday – Sunday
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Mon – Fri), 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Sat- Sun)
Ticket Fee: €18
Nearest Railway Station: Forte dei Marmi-Querceta train station
Nearest Airport: Capannori Airport
You May Also Like To Read: Day Trips From Florence
Tuscany is renowned for its Renaissance-era cities, sweeping landscapes, rich history, glorious art and architecture, food, and wine. The best way to absorb the Tuscany experience is to visit as many cities as possible. Most beautiful place in Tuscany like Florence, Pisa, the Chianti region, Sienna, Val d’Orcia, Lucca, and the Appean Alps should be topping your itinerary. Each will offer a unique, immersive experience of the Tuscan local culture and traditions. Connectivity between all these regions is excellent, so you can travel on a budget and soak in the best that Tuscany offers. Tuscany is indeed a treasure trove of experiences. If you are planning your trip to Italy’s heartland, visit these top places in Tuscany for a memorable holiday.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit :DagnyWalter for Pixabay
Frequently Asked Questions About Most Beautiful Place In Tuscany
When is the best time to visit Tuscany?
The best time to visit Tuscany is between April and June and between September and October, when you will get the best balance between crowd and prices. During the spring, the harvest blossoms in the Tuscan countryside, creating lush greenery as far as the eye goes. The autumn season brings the vine harvest when you can sample fresh produce from globally acclaimed wineries. July & August are peak holiday seasons, and most beaches are filled with vacationing Italians. Prices are also high at this time.
How much time do I need to visit Tuscany?
Exploring Tuscany can be overwhelming, with so many places and experiences. Whether you want to visit the art galleries and cathedrals, taste local cuisine and wine, or bask in the beaches depends. If you visit Siena, Florence, and the Chianti region, 5 days will allow you to explore the famous landmarks. Add 2-3 more days if you plan a trip to Val d'Orcia.
Is it easy to get around Tuscany?
The best way to explore Tuscany is through its rail network, which connects 181 stations. Two airports, Florence and Pisa, serve the region and are well-connected by train. If you want to explore the smaller towns, hire a rental car or ride by bus.
What are the best places to explore in Tuscany?
The best regions in Tuscany are the cathedrals and art galleries of Florence, the vineyards and medieval castles in the Chianti region, the art and architecture of Siena, the countryside of Val d’Orcia, the historic city of Pisa, and the pristine beaches of the Tuscany archipelago.
How much money do I need to explore Tuscany?
The price will significantly vary depending on the locations you plan to visit. Tourist hotspots like Florence, Siena, and Pisa are expensive during the peak summer seasons. Tuscany can be explored on a budget via trains and buses outside peak seasons.
People Also Read:
Places To Visit In Jembrana Regency Places To Visit Near The Yoga Barn Bali In April Places To Visit In Putrajaya Malaysia
Experience the world through captivating stories of adventure and travel. As a senior content writer, I bring my passion for exploration to life, crafting tales that take you on a journey. With my words, you’ll feel the thrill of discovery and the joy of experiencing new cultures. Let me turn your imagination into a reality with stories that inspire you to explore and embrace the world.
