20 Best Things To Do In Tuscany For Your Bucket List

When it comes to things to do in Tuscany the options are endless. Tuscany is one of my favorite places in Italy. I have visited so many different times in every season. 

I’m the perfect guide for this Italian region. There isn’t a day that goes past when I’m not researching and planning my next Tuscan vacation. 

Whether you want to visit well-known places such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Florence or some of the lesser-known places such as The Chapel of the Lady of Vitaleta, and Castello del Boccale I’ve got you covered. My favorite hidden gems are the Tunnel Di Pini, Asciano, and Montepulciano.  

Known for its landscapes, history and slow pace of life I’m sure this Italian region will win your heart as much as it has mine. The Tuscan countryside is breathtaking, the towns in Tuscany are charming and the Chianti region is fabulous.  

So grab a glass of something cold, get comfy, and let me take you in on a guide to the best Tuscany activities. From central Tuscany to northern Tuscany, I will cover them all.

20 Best Things To Do In Tuscany For Your Bucket List

Visit The Leaning Tower of Pisa

One of the top things to do in this region is visit this iconic building. It is one of the things Italy is famous for, so you don’t want to miss it!

For the nerds among you, the Tower of Pisa is the freestanding bell tower of the cathedral in the city of Pisa. The tower began to lean during construction in the 12th Century and worsened during completion in the 14th century. In the 1990’s the structure was stabilized the current lean is nearly 4 degrees.

The tower is part of the cathedral complex in Pisa called Campo dei Miracoli which means Field of Miracles. I found the complex more interesting than the tower but you are talking to someone who doesn’t like crowds. 

One of the best things to do in Tuscany for first-time visitors is to climb to the top, the views are amazing. I have visited once and while it was fun it was also crowded and a little over commercialised for my liking but I do think it’s something that you need to see. 

I also think it’s one of the things to do with kids in Tuscany, the amount of children I saw having fun trying to get that iconic shot was countless. 

Book Here: Leaning Tower of Pisa & Cathedral Entrance 

Stop At The Chapel of the Lady of Vitaleta

So here we go with one of my hidden gems. The Chapel of the Lady of Vitaleta is one of those attractions in Tuscany that most drive by, I urge you not to. 

Located in the hills of the Val d’Orcia on the road between San Quirico d’Orcia and Pienza this place seems frozen in time.  It’s incredibly picturesque and I found it rather moving. 

This sacred chapel is built at the alleged spot where Mary appeared to the shepherdess and the small chapel is framed by two rows of cypress trees. It is also located in a UNESCO World Heritage region so you know it is going to be breathtaking. 

I also recommend going here at sunset as it will take your breath away. This is one of my favorite places to visit in Tuscany. 

For more information about The Chapel of the Lady of Vitaleta read The Ultimate Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary

Enjoy the Tunnel Di Pini

Those who know me know I can’t resist a tree tunnel and in my experience, this is one of the best. This is one of the best spots in Tuscany for all the photographers among you. 

Located in the Parco Regionale Migliarino, San Rossore just a short drive from Pisa for me this is a must-see in Tuscany.

The best photography spots I found were near the beginning where the trees are fuller. And if you are not a photographer just walk the mile through the trees, trust me you won’t regret it. 

I feel this should be on your bucket list for Tuscany Italy. 

Read more about things to do in Tuscany and the Tunnel Di Pini

Wander Around The Boboli Gardens

One of the things to see in Tuscany in my opinion is Boboli Gardens. This historic park is in Florence behind the Pitti Palace and has over 11 acres to explore. 

Originally designed for the Medici family it is the typical ‘Italian garden’ that influenced the modern European courts. It’s adorned, as you would expect with grottos, fountains, and amazing art, honestly I could have spent all day there. 

Strolling through here away from the hustle and bustle of the city is a dream. It’s one of the things to do for couples in Tuscany as it has such a romantic and whimsical vibe about it. One of the best activities in Tuscany.

If you are trying to find more and learn more about Boboli Gardens visit 26 Memorable Things To Do In Italy

Boboli Gardens Skip The Line Tour

Take In La Verna

For those exploring Tuscany a visit to La Verna should be high on your list. Close to the small town of Chiusi Della Verna, this monastic complex includes a museum, church, monastery, chapel, and some tourist facilities.

La Verna Sanctuary sits on the site where it is believed Saint Francis received his stigmata. As such it is now a a destination for pilgrims all over the world.

However, you don’t have to be religious to visit or enjoy its beauty. I’m not the religious type and I found it fascinating. 

The sanctuary is perched on a rocky outcrop in the Casentinese forest. The area, views, and place are stunning and the walk-up alone is worth the effort.  

This is one of the must-visit places in Tuscany. 

Drive through Val d’Orcia

Fancy taking in some spectacular scenery? I’ve got you. 

Val d’Orcia is in my opinion one of the most picturesque drives in central Italy.  It’s an area of undulating hills, cypress trees, and picturesque towns and villages such as Pienza, Radicofani, and Montalcino.

The views are unlike anywhere else I have been in the world. Even better it’s one of the free things to do in Tuscany. Trust me it’s something you won’t want to miss. 

This is one of the best parts of Tuscany for awe-inspiring vistas and countryside. 

Get more information on Val d’Orcia and things to do in Tuscany. 

Marvel at Florence Duomo

The Duomo (cathedral) in Florence presides over the city with a Renaissance dome that is hard to miss.  It’s a vast Gothic structure built on the site of the 7th-century church of Santa Reparata.  Named in honor of Santa Maria del Fiore the original remains can still be seen in the crypt.

The cathedral complex, in Piazza del Duomo, includes the Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile and the Basilica,  one of Italy’s largest churches.  These three buildings are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and are one of the must-see places to visit in Tuscany.

One of the best things to do in Florence. Florence is the best-known city in Tuscany and there are so many Tuscany must-see attractions here. 

Book Here: Duomo Skip The Line Tickets And Dome Tour

Drive To Castello del Boccale

A picturesque castle that looks like it would be more at home in Disney than on the Etruscan coast. You know I just had to do it, right? 

If you are looking for a little bit of whimsy then I highly recommend a trip to Castello del Boccale. This castle is a stunning sight standing proudly overlooking the blue  Mediterranean waters on a pink-tinged rock, the photos you can get here are glorious.

The castle was once part of the defense structure that protected this region from Pirates. Constructed by the Medici family in the 16th century it’s the perfect example of gothic revival architecture.

Unfortunately, you can’t go in but you can view it from afar. I mean we can all dream, can’t we? 

If you are wondering what to do in Tuscany take a trip here 

If you have a love for castles and want to add more to your Tuscany itinerary see 10 Magical Fairytale Castles in Tuscany You Can’t Miss.

Experience Siena

I was completely and utterly charmed by Siena. I think it’s one of those Tuscan destinations that has a way of doing that. 

Siena is small, charming, ever so Italian, and less crowded than Florence. It’s the perfect place to find a cafe in the square and watch the world go by.

Things to do in Siena include: 

• A visit to Torre del Mangia a tower that you can climb for great views. 
• A trip to the incredible Duomo.
• Seeing the fabulous interior of Piccolomini Library
• A visit to Porta Camollia the northern portals in the medieval walls of Siena.

If you prefer the quiet don’t visit Siena when The Palio di Siena is going on. Held twice each year, on 2 July and 16 August the Piazza del Campo is converted into an arena for this historical horse race which thousands come to watch.

Siena is one of those places in Tuscany that everyone needs to see. It’s one of those Tuscany destinations you can’t miss. 

A visit here is one of the best things to do in Tuscany, Italy. 

Book Your Siena Walking Tour Here!

Visit Historic San Gimignano

If you want that that old Italian feel then UNESCO World Heritage Site San Gimignano is a must. This small walled medieval hill town is halfway between Florence and Siena. 

Things to see in San Gimignano include: 

• Torre Grossa is the tallest tower in the town. There once were 72 towers here and only 14 remain today. 
• The Piazza della Cisterna is a triangular square lined with medieval houses.
• Duomo di San Gimignano is beautiful like most of the Duomos in Italy. 
• San Gimignano 1300 Museum where they have a miniature replica of the town. 
• Torre Salvucci Maggiore is a wonderful medieval tower. 

Also if you can get out of town and check the view from the surrounding valley, it’s beautiful.  

Explore San Gimignano & Taste Some Wine On This Tour!

Book Your Sunset Tour of San Gimignano

See The Iconic Michelangelo’s sculpture of David

Michelangelo’s sculpture of David is possibly one of the most famous art objects in the world and visiting the Accademia Gallery of Florence has to be top of anyone’s list when it comes to what to do in Tuscany.

What I didn’t know before I visited was that this sculpture was originally intended for the roof of Opera del Duomo but on seeing the finished product it was instead displayed outside the Palazzo Vecchio.

There are also two copies the first, is in Piazza della Signoria, in the exact spot where the original used to be for over 400 years and the second one is in Piazzale Michelangelo overlooking Florence.

I’m not necessarily an art and museum girl but I did find this fascinating. If you are what to see in Tuscany this is it.

Visit Carrara Marble Quarries

If you are wondering why I’ve suggested a marble quarry as a destination, just look at the pictures of this place. No, I haven’t lost the plot this place is stunning. 

Featured in the James Bond film Quantum of Solace this quarry is a visual experience you won’t forget.

Tuscan Carrara Marble Quarries are the mines that provided Italy with its marble for centuries. You can tour the mines in a self-guided car tour but if you want to get high in the Apuan Alps you will need to take a jeep tour.

Take the jeep tour if you can. It’s an experience you won’t forget. This is one of the interesting places in Tuscany and one of the best things to do for adults in Tuscany

Learn more about the Carrara Marble Quarries by reading Top 17 Tuscany Tours Worth Your Money (Wine, Culture, etc:)

Visit Asciano

One of the things I will never forget about my first trip to Tuscany was the sunset trip I took to Asciano. It’s about a 30-45 minute drive from Siena and I urge you to go. 

This small Tuscan town is in the stunning Ombrone River valley and the best sunset photos can be taken if you head out of town to the nearby Tuscan villas and manors.

The town itself is a treasure trove of architectural features with a medieval center and I loved exploring it. 

Things to see here include: 

• The Church of San Francesco is a Franciscan-style 13th-century building. 
• Corboli Museum which is in a medieval palace that preserves some of the most important masterpieces of Etruscan and medieval art.
• The Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore dates back to the Middle Ages. 

This is one of the best things to do in Tuscany, Italy.

For more places to visit in Tuscany and information on Asciano see The Ultimate Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary

Soak In Saturnia Hot Springs.

This is one of the more unique Tuscan things. I’m beginning to think I have a slight obsession with hot springs and I search them out everywhere. These are some of the best. 

Located in the ancient village of Saturnia in southern Italy the warm waters here have been attracting people for centuries.  People from all over the region once traveled here to cure themselves of skin diseases, it was and still is an important thermal bath.

The springs are out of the way so don’t expect the trappings of tourism and be prepared. I found the best time to visit is early morning as it can get very busy.

If like me you are a hot springs girlie you might like to know there are some other spas in this region. This is one of the fun things to do in Tuscany.

Also, see our article on 4 Free And Natural Hot Springs In Tuscany

Chianti Wine Region

Anyone who knows anything about wine will know you can’t beat a good Chianti. I’m not a wine or alcohol girl but even I found this area and the wine-producing history fascinating.

I just drove through the region marvelling at the vines that cling to the hillside. The Chianti area is considered one of the most beautiful, It’s also much larger than I expected.

The region covers most of the area between Florence and Sienna and extends to the east towards the Valdarno and to the west to the Val d’Elsa. What I’m saying is you won’t run out of places to go.
The biggest vineyards in the region are Castello di Querceto, Castello di Verrazzano, and Castello di Brolio.

I highly recommend taking a wine tour, all of the vineyards tend to offer something some even offer cooking classes and food tours.

To see some wine tours we love and get more ideas on things to do in Tuscany Italy read Top 17 Tuscany Tours Worth Your Money (Wine, Culture etc:)

Ponte Vecchio

There is just so much to do in Florence and some I feel deserve a mention of their own and this is one of them. In my opinion, one of the most charming sites in Florence is the medieval  Ponte Vecchio, or “Old Bridge,”. 

This magical picture-postcard bridge was originally built for defense but now is full of boutique shops and I found strolling across it a real vibe. The atmosphere here is spectacular. 

It’s the most famous bridge in Florence and is a real beauty. Also, a perfect place to sit and enjoy a Limoncello Spritz to toast the sunset!

Find out more about Ponte Vecchio at How To Make The Most of One Day In Florence.

Montepulciano

Also known as heaven in the hilltops this is one of the places that was on my Tuscany bucket list for ages. When I finally went I couldn’t believe I had waited so long. 

It’s a postcard-perfect location surrounded by vineyards sitting atop a limestone ridge. It’s also one of the lesser-known places so you will find it less crowded. 

Montepulciano is known for its Renaissance buildings and impressive churches. It was also where the Volterra scenes were filmed in the New Moon film from the Twilight series and still today does Twilight tours. 

Located between the Val d’Orcia and the Valdichiana you probably caught a glimpse of it on your way to Siena and thought ‘Look at that beautiful place’ but weren’t sure what it was. Well, it was the stunning ‘heaven in the hilltops’, Montepulciano.

Walk the Lucca Wall 

If walls could talk then I’m sure these would have lots to say. Dating from the early 1500s the history here is palatable, you can feel it. 

A series of stone, brick, and earthwork fortifications surrounding the central city of Lucca I found walking the walls a great activity.  It takes about an hour and the loop is just over 2 ½ miles and is easy going. 

The view of the city below is amazing. There are nearly a dozen access points to the wall from the city with Piazza Santa Maria and Baluardo San Regolo the most popular. 

Lucca is somewhat of a hidden gem and if you can I’d stay a while and explore. Other sights to see include The Roman Amphitheater, The Guinigi Tower, Piazza Napoleone, and the  National Art Gallery. 

Montecatini Terme

What’s better than a spa in Tuscany, how about a spa town? This is one of the best places to visit for sure. 

Considered one of the “Great Spa Towns of Europe” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Roman settlement is world-renowned for its healing waters.  

What is also perfect about this city in Tuscany is it has all the art nouveau vibes which is a style I love and don’t see often. The Parco delle Terme spa complex is stunning. 

While here also visit the Montecatini Contemporary Art containing works by Joan Miró and Claes Oldenburg. The Torre dell’Orologio, a medieval clock tower, and the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria a Ripa were also some of my highlights here. 

For me, the real draw here is the Monumental Fountain and the Mazzoni Fountain. 

Believe me, you will, like I have, fall in love with this place.  

Tuscany has something to please everyone, all that Italian charm, beautiful architecture, stunning views, and good wine.  There is so much to see in this area of Italy and I hope this article has given you a good place to start when thinking of what to do in Tuscany.