The Perfect 10 Days In Tuscany Itinerary, The Quintessential Italian Experience

There’s nowhere more romantic than the stunning region of Tuscany. Tuscany is like a landscape painting.

It’s covered with cypress-lined roads, golden wheat fields, and medieval hilltop towns. Tuscany offers the quintessential Italian village experience, complete with fine wine and delectable food.

Tuscany boasts some of the world’s best cathedrals, palaces, museums, and landscapes. The region is celebrated for its Gothic and Renaissance art.

Tuscany is even considered the birthplace of one of mankind’s greatest adventures, the Italian Renaissance.

landscape of Asciano in Tuscany
landscape of Asciano in Tuscany

Snapshot 10 Days In Tuscany Itinerary

Here’s my recommended 10 day itinerary for visiting Tuscany.

You can make the itinerary more leisurely by eliminating a destination or spending less time in Florence at the outset, if you’d rather see the smaller Tuscan hamlets.

  • Day 1: Arrive in Florence
  • Day 2: Explore Florence
  • Day 3: Explore Florence
  • Day 4: Day Trip to Arrezo or Cortona
  • Day 5: Pick up your car, drive to and explore Siena
  • Day 6: Drive to Montepulicano, stop in Pienza
  • Day 7: Drive to San Gimignano, overnight in Volterra
  • Day 8: Explore Volterra and Drive to Lucca
  • Day 9: Explore Lucca
  • Day 10: Day Trip To Pisa

Your overnight bases will be Florence (4 nights), Siena (1 night), Montepulciano (1 night), Volterra (1 night), and Lucca (2 nights).

the Piazza della Signoria with Palazzo Vecchio in Florence
the Piazza della Signoria with Palazzo Vecchio in Florence

If this is too much moving around for you, you can skip the longer drive to Montepulciano and enjoy more time in Siena. Siena makes a great base for day tripping in Tuscany.

This Tuscany itinerary assumes you pick up a car when leaving Florence. (You don’t want to have one in Florence.)

You can get around some of the Tuscan towns with public transport, but not all of them.

For more practical information, here are are my must know tips for visiting Italy, tips for visiting Tuscany, and tips for renting a car in Europe.

the iconic Ponte Vecchio in Florence

Best 10 Days In Tuscany Itinerary

Day 1: Florence

Start your Tuscan road trip by flying into Florence, the capital of Tuscany.

This stunning city is often called the “Cradle of the Renaissance” and is a haven for art enthusiasts, boasting some of Europe’s finest Medieval and Renaissance art.

The entire historic center of Florence is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Due to the city’s immense popularity, it’s important to purchase tickets for major attractions and must-see sites well in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on the best of what Florence has to offer.

Brunelleschi's dome on Florence Cathedral
Brunelleschi’s dome on Florence Cathedral

1. Duomo Complex

On day 1, head to the historic complex of Florence Cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore, nicknamed the Duomo.

The complex consists of Duomo, the Baptistery, the Giotto Bell Tower, and the Duomo Museum. They’re all eminently worth seeing.

I strongly recommend booking a skip the line ticket for visiting the cathedral and climbing the dome. Or you can book a guided tour.

You should start with the stunning Duomo Museum to get the historical backdrop for all these structures. The museum is housed in the Piazza del Duomo at the back of Giotto’s Bell Tower, behind the Duomo apse.

The museum space is a fabulous treasure box of sculpture. Its rooftop terrace also offers a mesmerizing vie of Brunelleschi’s dome.

the view of Florence from Brunelleschi's dome
the view of Florence from Brunelleschi’s dome

Next, make your way to the Florence Cathedral, the city’s most famous and impressive landmark.

Construction of the cathedral started in 1296 and took 172 years to complete. Its structure is made of brown sandstone and is strikingly adorned with pink, green, and white marble.

The highlight of the cathedral is Filippo Brunelleschi’s magnificent terra cotta-colored dome, completed between 1420 and 1436. This iconic burnt orange dome has become a symbol of Florence itself.

Inside the dome, you’ll find frescoes by Giorgio Vasari, a renowned Florentine artist and the world’s first art historian. For breathtaking panoramic views of the city, you can climb up to the top of the dome.

the Florence Baptistery, 1000 years old
the Florence Baptistery, 1000 years old

Next, stroll to the Baptistery, in front of the main facade of the Duomo. Dating from 1059, it’s over a thousand years old. The Baptistery sports three magnificent sets of bronze doors.

They were designed by Lorenzo Ghiberti and Nicola Pisano. Inside, is a stunning golden Byzantine style ceiling mosaic telling the story of the Last Judgement.

Break for lunch and a wander, enjoying the joys of a traffic free Florence. Try Casa del Vino, where you can get sandwiches, crostini, or charcuterie plates with a delicious glass of wine.

the beautiful Ponte Vecchio
the beautiful Ponte Vecchio

All’Antico Vinaio is also a must-try, just minutes away from Piazza della Signoria. Its sandwiches are made with a local bread called schiacciata.

2. Ponte Vecchio

Then, take the classic stroll across Florence’s storybook bridge, the Ponte Vecchio. It looks like cobbled together houses suspended over the Arno River.

The bridge has three arches topped with a jumble of charming shops. Nowadays, you can buy expensive jewelry on the Ponte Vecchio.

the Uffizi Gallery on the Arno River, a must visit destination on your ten days in Tuscany itinerary
the Uffizi Gallery on the Arno River

3. Uffizi Gallery

In the afternoon, head to the magnificent Uffizi Gallery, Florence’s #1 sight. It houses the world’s best and most abundant collection of Italian medieval and Renaissance art.

The museum is a crowd pleaser, the third most visited site in Italy. The Uffizi deserves its accolades.

The Uffizi boasts seminal works from the 13th to 18th centuries. Here’s where you’ll find one of the world’s most iconic paintings, Sandro Botticelli’s Birth of Venus.

>>> Click here to pre-book a timed entry ticket

If your time is limited, you should focus your efforts. The must see halls include the Hall 2 (Giotto), Hall 8 (Lippi), Halls 10-14 (Botticelli), Hall 15 (Leonardo), Hall 41 (Raphael and Michelangelo), Hall 83 (Titian), and Hall 90 (Caravaggio).

Last time I visited, I took a 2 hour tour with an art expert, and it was fantastic.

For dinner, dine at Trattoria da Tito, not far from the Accademia, or Bobo’s Trattoria. You could also opt for guided food tour for the total Florence food experience.

If you need more art, the Palazzo Strozzi is often open at night with beautiful temporary exhibitions. Otherwise, you can just take a moonlit stroll through the beautiful historic center.

MIchelangelo's David sculpture in Florence's Accademia
MIchelangelo’s David sculpture in the Accademia

Day 2: Florence

1. Accademia Gallery

On day 2 of your 10 days in Tuscany itinerary, start you morning bright and early at the Accademia Gallery.

After the Uffizi, the Accademia is Florence’s most visited museum. People flock in to see what is probably the world’s most famous sculpture, Michelangelo’s commanding statue of David.

The 17 foot sculpture is considered the embodiment of male beauty, a Calvin Klein-like model of physical perfection. David was commissioned for a niche of the Duomo. But it was considered too beautiful for that location.

It’s essential to book a timed entry ticket. Be sure to get into the correct line when you arrive. You also book a guided tour that covers both the Uffizi and the Accademia.

the facade of San Marco Monastery, filled with Fra Angelico frescos
San Marco Monastery

2. San Marco Monastery

When you’re done at the Accademia, head a few blocks to another amazing Florence art spot, the Museum of San Marco Monastery.

San Marco is an extraordinary decorative complex, one of the most unusual things to do in Florence. You can admire art in its original in situ location and understand how contemporary audiences experienced it.

At this Renaissance convent-museum, you travel back in time to a nearly perfectly preserved 600 year old Dominican monastery.

It was paid for by Medici family money, designed by the stellar architect Michelozzo, and decorated with delicate frescos by one of the most sublime painters of the Renaissance — Fra Angelico. The fiery preacher Girolamo Savonarola even lived there, in the monks dormitory cells.

Click here to book a skip the line ticket. You may want to book a 2 hour guided tour of the museum.

You’re likely ready for lunch. This is a good time to explore the San Lorenzo markets.

There are two of them, an outside street market and an indoor food court known as the Central Market. I can recommend a rustic gem, Trattoria la Burrasca, on the market’s north corner.

the facade of Santa Maria Novella

3. Santa Maria Novella

After lunch, tour the beautiful Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and the Piazza della Repubblica.

Santa Maria Novella Santa Maria Novella was founded in 1279 by a Dominican order. The basilica has a similar design to the Duomo, with polychrome and white marble create a striking front facade.

The interior is a true marvel. It holds one of the most famous paintings in Italy, the Holy Trinity by Masaccio.

You’ll want to inspect three important highlights — the Strozzi Chapel, the Filippo Chapel, and the Spanish Chapter House.

Click here to pre-purchase an entry ticket.

the Basilica of San Lorenzo

4. Basilica of San Lorenzo & the Medici Chapels

Next, head to the monumental complex of the Basilica of San Lorenzo. The complex is a veritable haven of Renaissance art and architecture, a must see for history buffs.

The complex is vast, including: the basilica itself, Brunelleschi’s Old Sacristy, Michelangelo’s New Sacristy, the Medici Chapels, the Medici Crypt, and the Laurentian Library.

The Basilica of San Lorenzo in Florence is a significant site, rich in art and history. As one of the oldest churches in the city, it was the parish church of the Medici family.

Inside, you’ll find an elegant interior designed by Brunelleschi, featuring an array of Renaissance art. Notably, the church houses the Laurentian Library, with its impressive collection of manuscripts and a staircase designed by Michelangelo.

the Tomb of Giuliano in the Medici Chapel, with Michelangelo's famed sculpture of Night
the Tomb of Giuliano in the Medici Chapels

Adjacent to the Basilica is the Medici Chapels, another must-see. The chapels are famous for housing the Medici tombs, with Michelangelo’s sculptures in the New Sacristy being particularly remarkable.

These include the famous allegorical figures of Day, Night, Dawn, and Dusk, which adorn the tombs of Lorenzo and Giuliano de’ Medici.

The opulent Chapel of the Princes, a mausoleum, is a grandiose octagonal room adorned with precious stones and a stunning dome, showcasing the wealth and power of the Medici dynasty.

The Medici Chapels are incredibly popular and require pre-booking. Click here to purchase a ticket. Click here to book a 1 hour guided tour.

the Tower of Arnolfo at Palazzo Vecchio
the Tower of Arnolfo at Palazzo Vecchio

5. Palazzo Vecchio

In the evening, head to the magnificent Palazzo Vecchio, one of the few must see sites in Florence that’s open at night.

The palace is s a fortress-like town hall that dominates the Piazza della Signoria. This imposing structure, with its crenellated tower, has been the focal point of Florentine political life since the 14th century.

Though the palazzo is a doughty medieval fortress on the outside, inside it’s a resplendent Renaissance palace.

Hall of the Five Hundred in the Palazzo Vecchio
Hall of the Five Hundred

It’s definitely worth going inside, though many tourists don’t.

Inside, you can admire the stunning Michelozzo-designed courtyard, explore the grand Hall of the Five Hundred, admire Michelangelo and Donatello sculptures, and gaze admiringly at beautiful Giorgio Vasari frescos at every turn.

The Tower of Arnolfo can be climbed, and provides fantastic views over Florence and the Duomo. And the lines aren’t nearly as long as for Brunelleschi’s dome.

Click here to pre-book a ticket for the palace. Click here to book a guided tour of the museum and entry to the tower.

courtyard of Florence's Bargello Museum
courtyard of Florence’s Bargello Museum

Day 3: Florence

1. Bargello Museum

Start your day at the Bargello Museum, Florence’s underrated sculpture museum.

It’s housed in one of the oldest buildings in the city. Originally built as a barracks and prison, this medieval structure was converted into a national museum in the mid 19th century.

The Bargello houses an amazing collection of Renaissance sculptures. The most important works are in the Michelangelo and Donatello rooms.

Donatello, Bronze David, 1440s -- in the Bargello Museum
Donatello, Bronze David, 1440s — in the Bargello Museum

There are works by by renowned artists such as Michelangelo, Donatello, and Ghiberti.

Highlights include Michelangelo’s first major sculpture, Bacchus, and his Pitti Tondo, Donatello’s acclaimed Bronze David and St. George, Bernini’s Bust of Costanza.

Click here to pre-book an entry ticket for the Bargello. If you are a fan of Renaissance sculpture, you may want to invest in a guided tour of the Bargello.

Dante statue against the facade of the Basilica of Santa Croce
Dante statue against the facade of the Basilica of Santa Croce

2. Basilica of Santa Croce Complex

After the Bargello, visit the amazing Basilica of Santa Croce. In a city studded with magnificent churches, Santa Croce really stands out.

The Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence is home to an extraordinary collection of paintings, sculptures, and funerary monuments, making it one of the most significant assemblages of its kind.

Known for its remarkable art and architecture, Santa Croce offers a comprehensive overview of Italian art and culture, spanning several centuries.

Michelangelo's tomb in Santa Croce, designed by Giorgio Vasari
Michelangelo’s tomb in Santa Croce, designed by Giorgio Vasari

It’s the world’s largest Franciscan church, a fine example of Italian Gothic style, and home to many celebrity tombs (including Michelangelo’s), magnificent frescos, and Donatello sculptures.

The basilica’s frescoed chapels are beyond impressive. The best ones are the Bardi Chapel, the Peruzzi Chapel, the Pazzi Chapel, the Baroncelli Chapel, and the Maggiore Chapel.

You’ll find frescos by Giotto, the greatest artist of the 14th century, and other Renaissance luminaries.

Tip: If you want to lunch in the Santa Croce area, try the tiny but mighty Le Vespe Cafe. There will be lines, but it’s well worth the wait.

>>> Click here to book a Santa Croce ticket

view from the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte
view from the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte

4. Florence Viewpoints

For your last evening in Florence, head to one of Florence’s iconic viewpoints. Piazzale Michelangelo is the classic lookout point.

But if you hike 10 minutes further uphill, you’ll come to the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte, Florence’s crowning glory.

The ancient church is a unique and harmonious blend of medieval architectural styles, pre-dating Florence’s Renaissance treasures.

In the afternoon, cross the Arno and head to Florence’s Oltrano neighborhood, This may be Florence’s most trendy neighborhood.

the gorgeous setting of the Pitti Palace
the gorgeous setting of the Pitti Palace

I’ve written a one day itinerary for the Oltrarno. But there are essentially three must visit attractions in the Oltrarno neighborhood: the Pitti Palace, the Church of Santo Spirito, and the Brancacci Chapel in Church of Santa Maria del Carmine.

5. Pitti Palace

The Pitti Palace is one of Florence’s must see sites, a truly wonderful experience. The palace is an incredibly unique combination of splendor, in situ art collections, and beautiful gardens.

The magnificent Palazzo Pitti was the regal home of the Medici family. The palace is the largest palace in Florence and one of Florence’s most stunning architecture gems.

>>> Click here to book a ticket

Pietro da Cortona ceiling frescos in the Palatine Gallery of the Pitti Palace
Pietro da Cortona ceiling frescos in the Palatine Gallery

The palace houses several museums. The one you can’t miss is the Palatine Museum.

It boasts an impressive collection of over 500 in situ paintings, chock a block on top of each other amid lavish stucco and silk furnishings. In the five Planet Rooms, there are beautiful ceiling frescos by Pietro da Cortona.

After gazing at these master works, head to the backyard playground of the Pitti Palace, the lovely Boboli Gardens.

The gardens are the largest green space in Florence, sprawling over 11 acres. The gardens are effectively an open air museum, with hundreds of nooks to explore.

the Boboli Gardens behind the Pitti Palace
the Boboli Gardens behind the Pitti Palace

Where To Stay In Florence

If you want something central, book at the Hotel Brunelleschi or Portrait Firenze. Portrait Firenze is one of the most sought after hotels in Italy and is just steps away from the Ponte Vecchio. Of course the Four Seasons is always beautiful and in a quiet location. 

The Palazzo Vecchietti is housed in a beautiful 16th century townhouse. The St. Regis is a beauty too, right near Santa Maria Novella. Il Salviatino has a patrician feel and offers Duomo views. 

In the Oltrarno, I really like Villa Cora with its stunning views and Renaissance style suites.

Day 4: Day Trip to Arezzo or Cortona

You have two options for day 4 of your 10 days in Tuscany itinerary. Take a day trip to either Arezzo (for culture) or Cortona (authentic Italian charm).

Piazza Grande, the main square of Arezzo
Piazza Grande, the main square of Arezzo

1. Arezzo Day Trip Option

If you love Renaissance art, head to the cultural hotspot of Arezzo, just 30 minutes away on the high speed train.

Arezzo is a compact and colorful city. It’s quiet and less crowded than other Tuscan towns, but stuffed with delicious things to see and do.

In particular, you need to visit the high chapel in the town’s Basilica of San Francesco. There, Piero della Francesca, painted his greatest masterpiece, still in situ.

The complex fresco cycle tells the story of The Legend of the True Cross. It’s considered one of the greatest and most influential frescos of the early 15th century.

the Legend of the True Cross fresco cycle

The rest of Arezzo offers plenty of things to do, with many churches and museums. Arezzo Cathedral is a late 13th century Gothic church, with a rather austere exterior.

But inside, you’ll find a luminous Mary Magdalene portrait by Piero della Francesca and some beautiful terra cotta ceramics by della Robbia. There’s also a stunning viewpoint.

Art lovers should visit the Casa Vasari, the home of Giorgio Vasari the famed Florentine architect and artist. He became the world’s first true art historian, after publishing his treatise Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects.

the beautiful Tuscan town of Cortona
the beautiful Tuscan town of Cortona

2. Cortona Day Trip Option

If you want to get off the beaten path in Italy, you can go “Under the Tuscan Sun” in hilly Cortona in eastern Tuscany.

A former Etruscan town, Cortona was featured in the famous movie and book by Frances Mayes. It’s a quiet charmer, seated on a commanding hill with great views in every direction.

Cortona’s main street is Via Nazionale, the only flat place in town. There, you’ll find a great wine bar called Enoteria.

At one end of the street is Cortona’s most famous piazza, the Piazza dell Repubblica, perfect for people watching. At the other lies the splendid Piazza Garibaldi.

Cortona

As you walk the small streets, you’ll bump into one small church after another. Most of the buildings are made of pietra serena. This is a type of limestone that famed Italian architect Brunelleschi liked to build with.

If you continue on Via Berrettini, you’ll reach Fortezza Medicea di Girifalco, which offers splendid views over the countryside.

Cortona has a wonderful little museum, the Museo Diocesano, located in Chiesa del Buon Gesù in the Piazza del Duomo. The museum has some absolutely superb paintings — works by such Renaissance luminaries as Far Angelico and Luca Signorelli. It also houses the famed Cortona Altarpiece.

Cortona has a vibrant dining scene. For lunch or dinner, here’s a list of good options.

Click here for a guided tour of Cortona. You can also book a guided day trip tour from Florence that combines Cortona with Assisi, to get more bang for your buck.

the Siena Cathedral complex in Siena, a must visit attraction with 10 days in Tuscany
the Siena Cathedral complex in Siena

Day 5: Explore Siena

On day 5 of your 10 days in Tuscany, get up bright and early, pick up your rental car, and drive to Siena. You’ll stay overnight in Siena.

Bella Siena is one of the best cities to visit in Tuscany for its rustic medieval beauty, tasty food, and luscious chianti. If you want to bask in medieval times, there’s no better place.

You’ll want to spend ample time strolling through the pedestrianized historic center. It’s a well-preserved burnt orange dream littered with cute cafes and shops.

Click here to book a 2 hour walking tour of the historic center.

frescos in the Piccolomini Library inside Siena Cathedral
frescos in the Piccolomini Library inside Siena Cathedral

1. Sienna Cathedral

Siena’s most famous site is its Duomo, Siena Cathedral. It’s one of Europe’s most beautiful churches, especially for lovers of all things Gothic.

The cathedral is the symbol of Siena, clad all over in Siena’s trademark white and dark green marble. Consistent with the Gothic ethos that “more is always better,” every inch is decorated with marble, mosaics, sculptures, and frescos.

The Duomo complex isn’t just Siena Cathedral. It also includes the Baptistry, the Crypt, the Piccolomini Library, the Facciatone viewing terrace, and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo Museum. The Facciatone offers stunning views of Siena.

To see the entire Duomo complex, you need to pre-purchase the Opa Si Pass.

the Palazzo Pubblico in Siena, with one of Italy's most famous fresco cycles
Palazzo Pubblico

2. Palazzo Pubblico

Don’t forget to tour Siena’s town hall, the Palazzo Pubblico. It was built in 1297-1308 for the Council of Nine, the governing body of Siena.

The palazzo is one of the seminal civic structures in Europe It’s a harmonious example of early Renaissance architecture, with a curved brick facade and beautiful triforate arched windows.

Inside, you’ll find the Allegory of Good and Bad Government, one of the most famous fresco cycles in Italy. Beside the palazzo soars the slender Tower of Mangia, which you can climb for more panoramic views.

Click here to pre-book an entry ticket to the palazzo.

Siena is a great town to indulge in an excellent Italian meal. If you’re ready to splurge, your best option is either the Michelin starred La Taverna San Giuseppe or Antica Osteria da Divo. (Make reservations!)

San Domenico Church
San Domenico Church

Antica is very atmospheric. It’s partially housed in ancient Etruscan tombs. If you’re on a budget, try Gino Cacino di Angelo instead.

Where To Stay In Siena

Siena has some excellent accommodations. You can stay in luxe hotels, castles, or palazzos.

You should consider the Grand Hotel Intercontinental (vintage grandeur in a former palazzo), Hotel Certosa di Maggiano (converted 14th century monastery), or the Regio Relais (central location).

You can take a romantic mini-break in the beautiful Palazzo Ravizza. Or enjoy a boutique guest house in an unbeatable location, the Il Battistero Siena. The Relais degli Angeli is the epitome of Tuscan elegance.

a beautiful street in medieval PIenza
a beautiful street in medieval PIenza

Day 6: Drive to Montepulciano With a Stop in Pienza

On day 6, get up early and drive the classic Crete Senesi (Sienese Clay Hills) route to Montepulciano.

This is a beautiful terrain of pointy cypresses, golden rolling hills, wheat fields, and sunflowers.

1. Pienza

En route, stop in pretty Pienza. Pienza is a UNESCO-listed town in central Tuscany that will just take a couple hours to explore. Park in one of the lots outside the town walls.

Pienza Cathedral
Pienza Cathedral

Pienza’s main square is the splendid Piazza Pio II. it was designed by Renaissance architect Bernardo Rossellini.

The square was intended as the crowing glory of Pienza, the “ideal Renaissance city.” It’s wrapped with impressive buildings, including Pienza Cathedral and the Palazzo Piccolomini (the pope’s residence).

Pienza is known for its pecorino cheese. Plenty of shops hawking this delicacy are tucked away in the narrow streets. You can even do a cheese tasting.

Have lunch at Trattoria Latte di Luna on the Corso Rossellini, one of Pienza’s main streets.

>>> Click here to book a ticket to the palazzo

aerial view of pretty Pienza
aerial view of pretty Pienza
the village of Montepulciano in Tuscany
the rustic village of Montepulciano

2. Montepulciano

The quaint medieval town of Montepulciano is just 20 minutes from Pienza. It’s famous for its Vino Nobile, a delicious violet-scented ruby red wine.

The town is perched on a hilltop and encircled within ancient city walls. There are parking lots at the top of the town near the fortress and at the bottom of the town near Porta al Prato.

Hilly Montepulciano is a delight. From the Porta al Prato, it’s a steep climb to the town.

Along the way, you’ll see a string of impressive Renaissance palaces. At the highest point is the Piazza Grande, with a never-finished and rather homely Duomo. The best views are from Piazza San Francesco.

Montepulciano

Montepulciano is home to the Pinacoteca Crociani. The museum’s showpiece is a painting attributed to Caravaggio, the greatest painter of the Baroque period.

After making your own judgment about the provenance of the painting, head to one of Montepulciano’s wine cellars and then dine at Acquacheta or Osteria del Conte.

Montepulciano is the prefect place to take a wine tour in Tuscany. Or have a tasting and lunch at a vineyard.

Where To Stay in Montepulciano

There are some great places to stay in Montepulciano. Villa Cicolina is a charming hotel with antique furniture and views of the countryside.

The Lupaia is a one-of-a-kind former farmhouse complex dating back to 1622. You can also stay in an authentic agriturismo, Agritursimo San Martino.

spikey towers in the UNESCO town of San Gimignano
spikey towers in the UNESCO town of San Gimignano

Day 7: Explore San Gimignano On The Way To Volterra

Surrounded by cypress groves, tiny San Gimignano is nicknamed the “Medieval Manhattan.”

San Gimignano is a walled town with a startling cityscape with 13 spiky towers poking the sky. To see the town, you can book a small group walking tour or a private walking tour.

The most famous tower is the Torre Grossa. Climbing to the top is a must do for panoramic views.

Sam Gimignano’s historic center is a UNESCO site. Park outside the city walls and walk into the town. The central square is the Piazza del Duomo.

In the piazza, you’ll find the Collegiate Church of Santa Mary of the Assumption. Consecrated in 1148, it’s a beautiful (mostly) Romanesque church, austere on the outside with a feast of frescos on the inside.

view from Torre Grossa

In the Chapel of Saint Fina, there are paintings by early Renaissance master Ghirlandaio.

There’s also a violent fresco cycle of Black Death paintings, possibly by the mysterious artist Barna Da Siena, who allegedly fell to his death from scaffolding while painting the frescos.

After admiring the art, stop for a glass of wine or gelato in the Piazza della Cisterna, San Gimignano’s other main square.

There are plenty of shops stocked with delicious specialty products like saffron and truffles. Be forewarned, Gelateria Dondoli is a very popular spot.

For more information, here’s my complete guide to the top attractions in San Gimignano. When you’re done with your tour, you’ll drive to Volterra where you’ll stay overnight.

the ancient Etruscan town of Volterra in Tuscany
the ancient Etruscan town of Volterra

Day 8: Volterra

Spend your next day leisurely exploring the ancient town of Volterra. It’s one of Europe’s oldest towns.

Known for its 4th century B.C. Etruscan origins, this charming little town is located on a towering coastal bluff between Florence, Pisa, Siena and the coast. You’ll see the town in a vista long before you arrive.

Start your day in Volterra at the Porta all’Arco, the city’s ancient gateway. It’s Volterra’s main landmark, built by Etruscans in the 3rd century B.C.

The road leads you upward, zigzagging to the heart of Volterra, the medieval Piazza dei Priori. There you’ll find the Palazzo di Priori, said to be the model for Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio.

Palazzo di Priori in Volterra
Palazzo di Priori in Volterra

You’ll also want to visit the Church of San Francesco, with frescos by Cenni di Francesco telling the Legend of the True Cross.

You should also visit Volterra’s Roman ruins, which include an impressive Roman Theater from the 1st century B.C. If museums are on your agenda, try the Pinacoteca (for Renaissance art), the Etruscan Museum (Etruscan artifacts), or the Torture Museum (ancient torture instruments).

Volterra has excellent restaurants around every corner. For dinner, head to Osteria La Pace Volterra, Ristornate-Enoteca Del Duca, or La Vecchia Lira.

Click here to book a walking tour of Volterra.

Where To Stay In Volterra

The Ostello Chico delle Monache is a beautiful hotel is a restored 13th century monastery. Or stay nearby on a private estate at the stunning Borgo Pignano.

the splendid Piazza Anfiteatro in Lucca
the splendid Piazza Anfiteatro in Lucca

Day 9: Lucca

On day 9, drive to beautifuly preserved Lucca, where you’ll stay for two nights. Lucca is like a mini-Florence. It’s still entirely contained within its stout Renaissance walls.

The walls are like a circular park for pedestrians and bikers, with beautiful views over the region. Walking the entire wall takes about 1 hour.

Lucca doesn’t really have any must see sites, which means its under the radar for most tourists. Lucca’s appeal lies in its relaxed old world Medieval charm. It’s perfect for aimless strolling along the pretty streets and piazzas.

Romanesque churches are around every corner. The main pedestrian drag and shopping street is Via Fillungo.

Torre delle Ore in Lucca
Torre delle Ore in Lucca

It’s a long twisting road loaded with fashionable shops, cafes, and bars. Lucca is know for its glass making and jewelry, which make great souvenirs.

Lucca’s central square, Piazza Anfiteatro, is an enclosed piazza built around an ancient Roman arena. There’s no remnants of the arena.

But the handsome oval curve — ringed with yellow medieval buildings — still sits pretty and is full of cafes to grab a bite to eat. For dinner, try Ristorante Giglio or In Pasta-Cibo e Convivo.

Where To Stay In Lucca

The top pick in Lucca is the Palazzo Dipinto, right in the historic center. Hotel Palazzo Alexander is another pretty place in the town center. Hotel Villa Casanova is set within an 18th century farm house amid the hills.

Pisa's UNESCO-listed Field of Miracles, a must visit destination on your 10 days in Tuscany itinerary
Pisa’s UNESCO-listed Field of Miracles

Day 10: Day Trip To Pisa

No Tuscany road trip is complete without a stop in historic Pisa, 30 minutes from Lucca.

Most travelers in Tuscany descend in droves on tiny Pisa. They come for Pisa’s famously Leaning Tower on the spectacular UNESCO-listed Field of Miracles.

I think the tower is incredibly overrated. It leans because it’s a product of poor engineering and soft soil, nothing else. But you can take the requisite cheesy selfie with it.

If you want, climb the spiral staircase for magnificent views. But you have to book a timed entry ticket in advance to ensure a spot. You can also take a 2 hour all inclusive tour to explore the monuments on the Field of Miracles.

Pisa's Baptistery on the left
Pisa’s Baptistery on the left

The real gem of the Field of Miracles is Pisa’s exuberant Duomo. It’s the most ancient cathedral in Italy, older than the cathedral complexes in Siena and Florence.

This Romanesque edifice was founded in 1118. The exterior is decorated with alternating black and white stripes.

Inside, there’s a central nave and two flanking aisles on each side, with intricate Corinthian columns and arches. In the apse, you’ll find mosaics attributed (perhaps erroneously) to the greatest 13th century Italian artist, Cimabue.

There’s also an elaborate pulpit carved by Giovani Pisano in the early 14th century and works by Ghirlandaio and Giambologna.

Pisa's Monumental Cemetery on the Field of Miracles
Pisa’s Monumental Cemetery on the Field of Miracles

In Pisa, besides the famous Leaning Tower, you’ll find the impressive Baptistery in front of the Duomo. This circular building, started in 1153, houses a traditional full immersion baptismal font.

From the Women’s Gallery, you can get a good view of this font. Inside, you’ll also see a beautifully carved pulpit by Nicolo Pisano, a piece considered to be one of the first works of Renaissance art.

The Baptistery’s dome is unique because it’s actually made of two domes, creating a special acoustical effect. Sometimes, the guards sing to demonstrate the echoes, which is a treat to hear.

After exploring the Field of Miracles, take some time to wander through Pisa itself. Stroll along the Arno River and discover the city’s museums, palazzos, and piazzas, each offering a glimpse into Pisa’s rich history.

READ: Must Know Tips for Visiting Pisa

the hilltop town of Greve outside Florence
the hilltop town of Greve outside Florence

More Than 10 Days In Tuscany?

Do you have extra time in Tuscany? If so, here are some beguiling options for extending your stay and experiencing other beautiful Tuscan destinations.

You could add in:

  • Greve: gateway to Chianti region
  • Montefioralle: medieval town with a hilltop castle
  • Fiesole: Roman and Etruscan ruins
  • Monteiggioni: walled town of Monteriggioni outside Siena
  • Asciano: quiet medieval hamlet with cypress lined scenery
  • Colle Di Val d’Elsa: charming medieval upper town
  • Montalcino: Brunello wine bars in gorgeous setting
the medieval town of Colle Di Val d'Elsa
the medieval town of Colle Di Val d’Elsa

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in Tuscany itinerary. You may find these other Italy travel guides useful:

If you’d like to spend ten days in Tuscany, pin it for later.

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2 thoughts on “The Perfect 10 Days In Tuscany Itinerary, The Quintessential Italian Experience”

    • No, I’ve always driven around this part of Italy. Some of the towns, like San Gimignano, don’t have a train station. Still, you can definitely get around many places in Italy by train and it’s pretty easy. Purchase your ticket online in advance on Trenitalia. Show up at the train station 15 minutes in advance. If it’s a large train station, be sure to get in the right line, regional vs.fast trains. Digital signs will indicate your track number, just like an airport. The one thing that baffles me always is which end of the train to get on. So there is sometimes a mad scramble to board in the right car. Once on, you can show your QR code or printed ticket to the conductor. No need to validate your ticket if you have a ticket on the fast train.

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