The best places and towns in Tuscany

The best places and towns in Tuscany – what to see: small towns of Tuscany, the Chianti wine region, the Val d’Orcia valley, tuff towns, thermal springs of Tuscany.

It’s not just the stunning countryside or the exquisite wines that draw people from all over the world to these hilltop villages in Tuscany. These small towns are also home to Italy’s cultural treasures, including paintings, frescoes, and medieval architecture. It’s in the Tuscan towns and villages that you can immerse yourself in authentic Italian culture, culinary and wine traditions, and the wonderful singing language of Italy.

Whether you plan to visit just one or all of the towns I’ve written about below, you won’t be disappointed. Tuscan exquisite beauty, great food and wine, and a unique historical experience await you.

When is the best time to visit Tuscany

The best time: autumn and spring

I was in Tuscany in May and at the end of September – both times it was warm (sometimes even hot) weather. Only the colors of the Tuscany landscapes, fields and hills were different. In spring – everything is green and blooming, in autumn – the harvest, or the fields are already mown, more shades of brown than green. But still very beautiful!

Spring is especially suitable for visiting the picturesque countryside nearby. During the Easter holidays, many Italians go on vacation or visit other family members who live far away, so you should avoid this particular spring week, as everywhere can be very crowded.

Summer can be too hot for sightseeing, so it is not the best time to travel to Tuscany and visit Italian cities in general.

Autumn is also a good option, at least until mid-October, until the rain starts.

The best transport to travel around Tuscany

By car

If you are heading to Tuscany, it is best to fly into one of the nearest airports – Florence, Pisa, Milan or Rome. Here you can rent a car, which is the most convenient way to travel around rural Tuscany. To see not only Tuscan cities, but also small villages, to live in an agriturismo or camping in nature, to swim in the pool in the heat.

from Italy and already have a car, getting to this region is extremely easy. Italy’s main motorway, the A1 Autostrada del Sole, runs right through the eastern part of the region, passing near many large cities and towns.

I advise you to read: How to rent a car in Italy – personal experience

From Rome to Florence on the main A1 Autostrada del Sole motorway, the journey takes just over 3 hours, almost all on the highway. Parts of southern Tuscany (such as Montepulciano and Val d’Orcia) are much closer to Rome, reaching them in just 1.5 hours. From Milan to Florence it is 3.5 hours by car and about 1.5 hours to reach the southern parts of the region.

We travel here by our own car, having once come from Odessa – tickets for our dates were very expensive, so we decided to go by car. So also consider this option if you like to sit behind the wheel for a long time.

By train

The major cities of Tuscany have very good rail connections with the major cities of Italy. Most high-speed trains go to Florence, but you can also reach some other Tuscan cities. For example Siena, Pisa or Lucca.

Florence has high-speed rail connections with Milan, Rome and Venice (where Italy’s 3 main international airports are located). As well as Bologna, Naples and many other cities. You can also travel around the region by intercity and regional trains, which are slower but cheaper. For train schedules and options, check Trenitalia and Italo.

If you are planning to get to Italy from other European countries by train, I advise you to look for international tickets on the website Trainline.

Buses in Tuscany

Honestly, the bus is not the best way to get around Tuscany. I had to find a bus to travel 15 km through the Val d’Orcia valley. It was really a challenge with an asterisk. Firstly, buses in rural areas do not run often, and secondly, tickets must be purchased through a special application (it is impossible to do this from the driver).

But if you still decide to travel around Tuscany by bus, check out the websites of the main companies operating in Tuscany:

From my own experience, I recommend using the app Omio. This program shows that the bus schedule in reality coincides with what this program shows.

You also have the option to get there by bus. Flixbus from the big Italian cities (Rome, Milan, Venice) to Florence or Siena.

Florence – the capital of Tuscany

Florence, one of the most visited cities in the world, needs no introduction. The cradle of the Renaissance and the place to see some of Italy’s most incredible works of art, it’s a must-see on any visit to Italy, let alone Tuscany.

Elegant palaces, incredible museums and centuries-old churches are not all you’ll find in Florence. The city is also known for its fantastic cuisine and some of the best shopping in the world.

But it’s also a great base for exploring Tuscany – whether by car or train. Trains from Florence connect you to all the major cities in Tuscany.

If you’re planning to stay in Florence and make radial or day trips to other towns and villages in Tuscany, this is one of the best options for such a trip. Then look for accommodation, either with the ability to park your rental car inexpensively, or closer to the train station – depending on how you plan to travel around the region.

Where to stay in Florence

LEOPOLDA HOME≫ – The accommodation is very comfortable to stay in with all the amenities, in a relatively quiet area. It is about a 15-minute walk to the city center, and also about 15 minutes to the nearest shopping center.
Residenza Ognissanti≫ – Very spacious, beautiful rooms, great location near major attractions and public transport stops.

1. Siene

Siena is a medieval city in Tuscany, a place with Gothic architecture and brick streets and squares. Warm and cozy, staying in it makes you feel like you are going back in time. It can be noisy and noisy in the center and quiet in the streets far from the center.

I have been here twice – during a spring trip to Tuscany by car and in the fall, when I came here on foot during the Via Francigena walking route. Very different impressions from the two visits – the tourist experience and the experience of a pilgrim who stopped for the night in a real monastery. But together – it is a very pleasant experience to visit Siena.

An hour’s drive from Florence is Siena – a wonderful medieval city on the edge of the Chianti wine region. The city, founded by the Etruscans over two millennia ago, is a medieval pearl of Tuscany. Although Siena is small, it is full of cultural and architectural monuments.

What to see in Siena:

At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, also known as Il Campo, a square where tourists and locals can relax and even have a picnic sitting on its brick pavement.
From there you can visit the Duomo, decorated with black and white marble.
And then there is the Museo Civico, the city’s most famous museum, which is decorated with rich frescoes.
Or the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Siena, which contains incredible masterpieces of the Sienese school of painting and sculpture.
In terms of events, Siena is mainly known for its annual horse race called the “Palio di Siena“, which is held twice a summer, in June and August.

Where to stay in Siena:

Casa di Alfredo Affittacamere≫ – It has a wonderful view of the Tuscan hills, the location is near the train station, the price is very nice for a tourist city.
B&B Dei Rossi≫– with double rooms for 80 Euro has a great location – in the very center of Siena.
Albergo Bernini≫ – The location is convenient in the city center. The hotel is in an antique building, but clean, modern beds, the staff is very attentive. The rooms have terraces where it is nice to drink coffee, and the rooms also have a kettle and cups for coffee and tea. At the same time, the price for accommodation is very reasonable.

How do you get to Siena:

By train from Rome or Milan – travel time 3.5 hours, trains run several times a day both direct and with transfers.
By car, if you are traveling along the Tuscany route.

2. San Gimignano

San Gimignano is incredibly photogenic and incredibly popular, and for good reason. It’s like walking through a medieval movie, and the gelato here is top-notch. Even with the crowds, it’s still one of the most beautiful places in Tuscany.

San Gimignano is a classic hilltop town (borgo) surrounded by 13th-century walls, known as the “Town of Magnificent Towers,” and is renowned for its medieval architecture. San Gimignano is known for its many towers (only 14 remain today, down from 72 in the past), giving it a recognizable profile that can be seen from afar.

What to see and must-do in San Gimignano:

Bell Tower: Climb to the top for one of the best views in Tuscany
To get the full experience of this unforgettable place, you should visit the frescoed Collegiate Church of San Gimignano, a Romanesque cathedral built in the 11th century
And also the Palazzo Comunale to see the medieval art inside.
The Cathedral: In the heart of the city, you can’t miss it!
Piazza della Cisterna is the most picturesque place in the city: it is located at the highest point of the hill, surrounded by medieval buildings, and gets its name from the ancient well that stands right in the middle of the square.
Climb the 218 steps of the city’s highest tower, Torre Grossa, for an extraordinary view of the Tuscan landscape.
Try the most delicious gelato in Italy at Gelateria Dondoli. The ice cream produced here has been repeatedly voted the best in the world.
Finish your visit by tasting one of Tuscany’s best wines, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a white wine produced specifically in San Gimignano.
See the towers of San Gimignano at sunset. You can do this by staying in a hotel outside the city, or simply by walking or cycling, for example to the nearby village of Monteoliveto, which is connected by a walking path. For those who like to watch the sunset, there are benches here where you can catch a real Zen.

Where to stay in San Gimignano:

Lovely Balcony San Gimignano Apartments≫ – very nice apartment with a view of San Gimignano, but outside the old town and the ZTL zone (only local residents can drive here). Free public laundry nearby. The apartment is very close to the old town, 1 minute walk. There are two bedrooms and a large kitchen.
Appartamento Il Nespolo≫ – small apartment for two in the old part of San Gimignano, in an old medieval building but with all the modern comforts. If you want to stay in the city center – perfect for exploring the bars and restaurants in the evening.
Camping Il Boschetto Di Piemma≫ – A wonderful campsite with cabins and rooms, which have all the necessary amenities, and even its own swimming pool, which is open in the summer. Very inexpensive accommodation 1 km from San Gimignano, it is nice to stay here for a few days to explore the surrounding locations and the city itself by car. I stayed here during a trip to Tuscany.

How to get to San Gimignano:

There are no trains here, and buses don’t come often – the most convenient option is a car. Or buy a tour when you arrive in a larger city.

3. Lucca

Lucca is a beautiful small city surrounded by a 16th century medieval wall, which in modern life has been transformed into a wonderful park for walking and jogging. This small city in the north of Tuscany has preserved wonderful Italian architecture and towers, but without the huge crowds of Pisa or Florence.

I really liked Lucca – a city that has preserved the atmosphere of craftsmanship, which is felt in small shops-workshops. They produce leather shoes and accessories here (very nice prices), make wonderful linen products. And many wonderful restaurants and cafes, where it is delicious and not as expensive as in big cities.

What to see in Lucca:

Visit Lucca Cathedral, which dates back to 1063 and has a typical medieval appearance. The ticket price includes a climb to the bell tower, from which you can see the whole city.
Guinigi Tower: a tall tower in the Romanesque-Gothic style. You can also climb it if you buy a ticket. Interestingly, this tower is privately owned.
Church of San Michele in Foro: a beautiful basilica built near the former Roman forum.
Piazza dell’Anfiteatre – a square built on the old Roman amphitheater, and the current buildings retain their elliptical shape. There are many cafes here where you can sit, watch the world go by and feel the Italian atmosphere.
Casa Museo Puccini: the house where the famous composer Giacomo Puccini lived, which houses a large museum of the composer.
Lucca’s city walls: they encircle the city in a loop and can be fully enjoyed on foot or by bike.
Bastions: you can visit many of them, the best of which is San Paolino with its majestic tower and armory.

Where to stay in Lucca:

Il Vicolo⋙ – a private hotel located near the Basilica of San Frediano (some rooms overlook the square in front of it).
Bilocale economico, in pieno centro a Lucca⋙ – wonderful apartment with a kitchen for a very nice price in the center of Lucca.
Micheli Suite Anfiteatro Square≫ – rooms with a view of Piazza Anfiteatro.

How to get to Lucca:

Lucca can be reached by car or train. You can reach Lucca from Florence in about 1 hour by car. If you are traveling from Florence, you will have to change trains in Pisa. Trains run from Pisa and the journey time is 1 hour.

4. Montepulciano

If you love wine, scenery and an old-world atmosphere, Montepulciano is the place for you. The town is built on a limestone ridge, so every street looks like a balcony over the countryside. You’ll find wine cellars under Renaissance palaces, and taking your first sip of Vino Nobile at sunset is pure joy.

Stroll up the main street, all the way uphill from the Porta al Prato gate to the spacious Piazza Maggiore, the highest point of this high city, adorned with the Duomo and Palazzo Comunale.
At the very heart of this beautiful city is Piazza Grande. Take a photo near the ancient well.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta houses a masterpiece of the Sienese school, and the Church of Santa Lucia has an altarpiece.
Be sure to visit the stunning surrounding vineyards, where Vino Nobile, one of Italy’s classic red wines, is produced.
On the city tower, there is an ancient clock with an Italian Parsley, which strikes the bell every hour with a hammer.
Visit the local observation decks, which offer breathtaking views of the valley.
Go to the main cathedral, the Duomo.
Climb the tower of the Palazzo Comunale: from there you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Piazza Grande and the entire city.

Where to stay in Montepulciano

Il Buonumore≫ –Excellent location – the hotel is in a great location in the main historic district of Montepulciano, close to all the shops, restaurants and numerous wineries. The hotel has large comfortable rooms, which is great for couples.
Hotel Panoramic Montepulciano≫ – The hotel has spacious, clean rooms, comfortable beds, a large bathroom, a very beautiful view, a large pool and relaxation area, and classic sweet Italian breakfasts.
Tenuta Santagnese≫ – The beautiful romantic farmhouse has its own historic wine cellars with the opportunity to go on wine tastings.

How to get to Montepulciano

As with other towns in Tuscany that are far from large cities, it is worth going here either by rented car or as part of a tourist excursion.

5. Pienza

Pienza in Italy is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany. Located not far from Siena, in the heart of the famous Val d’Orcia valley. This UNESCO World Heritage Site enchants above all with its magnificent old town, which is considered a perfect example of the Renaissance era.

Walking through the historic center of Pienza, you will discover countless stunning sights, romantic alleys. Standing on the top of a high hill, the view of the surroundings is breathtaking.

Excellent restaurants and cozy cafes here offer classic Tuscan cuisine. And the breathtakingly beautiful surroundings around Pienza are absolutely worth the attention and offer numerous opportunities for excursions and hiking.

What to see in Pienza

There are several palazzos in Pienza that are worth visiting: the first is Palazzo Piccolomini, which is located to the right of the Duomo and has a wonderful garden from which you can get a panoramic view of the Val d’Orcia valley. The second is Palazzo Vescovile, which houses the Diocesan Museum, the Cathedral Museum and many important works of art. And the third is Palazzo Comunale, the town hall.
Piazza Pio II is uniquely beautiful and is the center of the historic Old Town. It is home to a travertine fountain, a majestic town hall with its picturesque tower. And the 15th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with a beautiful Renaissance facade.
In Pienza, you should definitely try the regional Pecorino sheep cheese. Gourmets recommend dipping the cheese in honey.
The Monastery of San Francesco is located on Corso Rossellino, between Porta al Prato and Piazza Pius II. Also worth seeing is the former monastery church of San Francesco from the 13th century.
The panoramic platform “Camminata Panoramica” is located along the walls of Pienza with a fantastic view of the cathedral on one side and a picturesque view of the hilly Tuscan landscape of the Val d’Orcia on the other. A truly romantic viewpoint in Pienza that should not be missed on any visit.
“De Cypresses – The Gladiator Point”. This place is located 600 meters below the church of Pieve di Corsignano, next to the dirt road that leads to Agriturismo A Terrapille. It is definitely worth visiting, because it is an absolutely iconic view of the Val d’Orcia valley from the Pienza side.

How to get to Pienza

Buses from Siena – with several transfers . I do not recommend, it is long (minimum 1.5 hours) and inconvenient.
Rented car – ideal for traveling through rural Tuscany.

Where to stay in Pienza

Agriturismo Marinello≫ – The agriturismo has a wonderful location overlooking the town of Pienza on a hilltop. The beautiful swimming pool will keep you cool in the summer heat and offer stunning views of the valley and the sunset.
Piccolo Hotel La Valle≫ – The hotel has a very convenient location for traveling by car – there is its own parking lot. The old town with all the restaurants and shops is nearby. The hotel is located on a hill – the rooms and the open veranda offer a wonderful view of the valley.
Relais Il Chiostro Di Pienza≫ – The hotel’s incredibly beautiful location in Pienza, rooms with a magnificent view of the Val d’Orcia valley.

6. San Quirico d’Orcia

This small picturesque village halfway between Pienza and Montalcino is surrounded by fortified walls, and rows of cypress trees tower over the surrounding countryside. It is a beautiful and touristy town on a hill overlooking the Val d’Orcia valley. I was there in the evening, walked around the town, visited the Horti Leonini gardens, photographed the sunset and enjoyed pasta and a glass of wine at the trattoria InTralci.

The majestic Horti Leonini gardens surround the church of Santa Maria Assunta. And the elegant little chapel of Vitaleti is located on the top of the hill not far from the town. The sunset was simply incredible – the red sky was a play of colors.

Where to stay in San Quirico d’Orcia:

Antica Sosta – A wonderful guesthouse with double rooms for couples, located in the center of the old town.
Casanova – Family Apartments Residence≫ – Stunning location with great views, close to San Quirico d’Orcia. Small but beautiful hotel just a few minutes walk to the town centre. The hotel has a very clean and cool swimming pool, open in high season.
Dimora del Poggio a San Quirico d’Orcia – Beautiful 2-room apartment, furnished with authentic Italian furniture, creating a homely atmosphere. Wonderful view of the city rooftops and the surrounding countryside.

7. Val d’Orcia valley

When you see the most beautiful photos of the Tuscan countryside, you can be sure that 99% of them were taken in the Val d’Orcia. These are rolling hills, farmland, villas, medieval villages and farms surrounded by cypress trees and vineyards.

Life there is slow and peaceful, and this area has always been considered the symbol of the Italian rural lifestyle. It is also a popular destination for wine and natural food lovers, with many farms and wineries offering tastings of typical products. And excellent restaurants where you can taste dishes made from local products (during high season you need to book a table in advance).

To visit the Val d’Orcia valley in a couple of days, you will have to choose the following villages and attractions:

Montalcino – to taste Brunello wines.
Pienza – to taste the local pecorino cheese.
Bagno Vignoni – to soak in the medieval thermal springs.
See the magnificent gardens of the Horti Leonini surrounding the church of Santa Maria Assunta in San Quirico d’Orcia.

Other activities you can do in the valley include:

outdoor recreation,
cycling,
trekking – the well-known Via Francegina route passes here,
horseback riding,
photo sessions against the backdrop of magnificent landscapes.

How to get to Val d’Orcia

The best way to visit the valley is by rental car, as you can stop whenever you see the best views and explore the countryside at your own pace.

Buses here are very complicated, so you shouldn’t spoil your impression of the valley by waiting an hour for a bus at the bus stop.

Wherer to stay in Val d’Orcia

Hotel Palazzuolo≫ – Excellent location in San Quirico d’Orcia, the hotel has a wonderful view from the terrace and its own swimming pool.
Adler Spa Resort Thermae≫ – A beautiful resort in Bagno Vignoni, which is very well suited for a wellness holiday. The hotel has a gym and fitness center, thermal pools and several saunas on site.
Drogheria e Locanda Franci≫ – The hotel is located opposite the castle in Montalcino. There is a wine shop and restaurant next door.

8. Montalcino

This is the town for Brunello wine lovers – Brunello di Montalcino. Montalcino is built on a hill overlooking the Val d’Orcia. It sits like a queen on her throne. The town’s fortress is still standing (and you can walk along its ramparts), the wine in the local trattorias and bars is world-class, and the atmosphere is relaxed. It’s one of those towns where silence really does seem sacred.

In the historic center of Montalcino is a magnificent fortress built in 1361, which has hosted many events in the past and present. Among them is the Montalcino Jazz and Wine Festival.
Near the town hall, Palazzo dei Priori, you will find the clock tower, and below it the main square, Piazza del Popolo.
If you want to visit a couple of museums, the Museo Civico e Diocesano di Arte Sacra houses numerous religious paintings and sculptures. And the Glass Museum provides information on the history of glassmaking and glassware.

Where to stay in Montalcino

Al Brunello≫ – A wonderful hotel in Montalcino with its own garden and seasonal swimming pool. The hotel has terraces and balconies offering wonderful views of the hills of Val d’Orcia.
Hotel Dei Capitani≫ – An atmospheric hotel-villa in the heart of the historic town of Montalcino. The rooms are spacious and have a wonderful Tuscan view. The hotel offers a varied and very tasty breakfast. The swimming pool overlooking the vineyards is a decoration. For guests with a car there is a private parking lot.
Podere Brizio≫ – Great location and stunning view, the hotel has a wonderful restaurant offering Italian cuisine and home-made wine.

9. Pisa

Pisa – It may be one of the most touristy cities in Tuscany, but it would be a shame to miss it if you are nearby. Pisa is famous for its leaning tower, and there is also the silly attraction that you can see for yourself. Or make your own – taking silly photos while holding the tower is really fun.

If you have time, you can climb to the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, as well as explore other interesting buildings in the “Square of Miracles” – Campo dei Miracoli. There is the Duomo (cathedral), the Baptistery and the cemetery, all of which are interesting. You need tickets to enter, and these can be booked in advance, which is advisable due to the huge popularity of this place.

More about Pisa: The best things to do in Pisa in one day

How to get to Pisa

Pisa is very easy to get to from Florence, whether you have your own transport or not. There are several trains from Florence’s main station, Santa Maria Novella, that go directly to Pisa. If you do take a car, there is a large car park near the tower.

Where to stay in Pisa

Vespucci Domus – There is a paid city parking lot near the hotel.
The Rif – Boutique Hotel – close to the tower and there is parking nearby.
Alla Torre Con Vista – There is a large parking lot nearby, and the center is a 5-minute walk away.

10. Chianti

If you’ve had your fill of Italian architecture and want to explore the stunning countryside, then a great idea would be to head out to the Chianti region. As you can probably guess, Chianti wine comes from here, and a trip to this area reveals many vineyards worth visiting. It’s stunning countryside and a welcome break from the bustling towns and cities of Tuscany.

There are many vineyards in the area that you can visit and taste the wines. But there are also some charming villages and towns with beautiful churches and castles that are worth visiting. And of course, try the local produce and wine.

How to get to Chianti

The Chianti region is located south of Florence. If you want to get there by public transport, you can take a bus to the town of Greve. But a car is definitely the best way to see the smaller villages.

Where to stay in Chianti

Chiantirooms Guesthouse≫ – Wonderful accommodation in Greve with a wonderful host. Easy street parking. Incredibly hospitable and a wonderful traditional Italian home-made breakfast.
Agriturismo La Camporena≫ – This is a super romantic and atmospheric place with an incredible view of the Chianti Valley. Agriturismo with a swimming pool, large grounds and terrace. Excellent breakfasts and a traditional Tuscany dinner on request.

11. Volterra

A little darker, a little more gloomy and a lot less touristy than San Gimignano. Volterra seems ancient because it is. Here you will find Etruscan gates, Roman ruins and see misty mornings that make the whole city mysterious in the best way.

Volterra: an ancient Etruscan settlement that later became a Roman city and a flourishing medieval citadel. You can easily spend an entire weekend there as you will find many things to see and do.

If you find yourself here in August, don’t miss the Volterra AD 1398 Medieval Festival, which takes you back in time and gives you the chance to spend the day as a medieval citizen. As always, the first thing to do upon arrival is to explore the old town and visit the heart of local civic life: the Palazzo dei Priori, the Palazzo Pretorio and the Cathedral with its Baptistery.

Don’t miss a visit to the local Etruscan Museum of Guarnacci to learn more about those ancient times and see the many traces left by the first inhabitants of Tuscany. Also visit the Etruscan Acropolis, which is an interesting archaeological site located on a hilltop, with many Etruscan and Roman ruins, such as ancient temples and villas.

How to get to Volterra

You can easily reach Volterra by bus, which is a 1 hour 30 minute drive from Florence. Or first take the train to Pisa and then a bus to Volterra.

Where to stay in Volterra

Hotel Volterra In Superior≫ – The hotel is located in the center of one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in Tuscany. Very clean, comfortable and quiet hotel with a striking contrast between the historic nature and the modern and extremely efficient interior of the hotel.
Casa Mosaico≫ – Nice and clean apartment, modern bathroom, comfortable bed, extra pillows and linen provided – coffee a bonus. Great host – very helpful and we could walk to the main streets in 5 minutes. Very nice price for this area.

12. San Miniato

A beautiful village in the province of Pisa, San Miniato is the place to taste one of Tuscany’s most prized foodstuffs: the rare tartuffo bianco (white truffle). This incredible delicacy is the subject of an entire cultural event, the “Mostra Mercato di Tartufi”, held every November. In San Miniato, you can taste truffles and even take part in a truffle hunt.

This village is great to explore on foot, and its most notable feature is the medieval Piazza del Seminario.

San Miniato is also a stop on the historic Via Francigena pilgrimage route, which I walked in 2023.

Where to stay in San Miniato

Affitta camere San Miniato≫ – single room in a guesthouse, for 40 Euros
Camere Montalbano≫ – apartments with private bathroom, for 50 Euros.

13. Monteriggioni

Another walled town in Tuscany, Monteriggioni’s main feature is its 13th-century castle, which overlooks the entire landscape. You can walk along the medieval walls that form part of the castle for a bird’s-eye view of the Chianti countryside. The town also has 15 medieval towers that still stand, two impressive gates, and charming narrow streets.

Monteriggioni is located along the pilgrimage route known as the Via Francigena, which I walked several years ago through Tuscany and all the way to Rome.

How to get to Monteriggioni

Where to stay in Monteriggioni

Rooms and Wine al Castello – Central location in Monteriggioni. Nice room, wine available to order via link. Breakfast delivered to the room.
Ostello Contessa Ava dei Lambardi– located in the abbey premises next door.

14. Pitigliano

Pitigliano rises straight out of the tuff cliffs, and it’s so dramatic it almost doesn’t look real. The Jewish history here is fascinating, the alleys are narrow and mysterious, and it’s honestly still a bit of a hidden gem of Tuscany. Perched on a tuff cliff over 300 meters high, the town towers over the picturesque landscape of Maremma – the southern part of Tuscany, famous for its pristine and wild beauty.

The striking red-brown color of the buildings, built close together on a sheer cliff, is particularly striking, creating a perfect panorama. The fabulous old town with its countless alleys and hidden squares is simply inimitably beautiful. A highlight of Tuscany that should not be missed.

Spending a few days in this region is worth it to see the neighboring beauties:

the rocky tuff town of Sorano,
the medieval village of Sovana,
and the hot springs of Saturnia, which are located near Pitigliano.

How to get Pitigliano

Because of the considerable distance of Pitigliano from large cities, you should not plan to go there by public transport. It is long, there are many transfers, it is inconvenient.
A rented car is an ideal option for traveling through such towns in Tuscany. And of course, tourist buses with excursions take tourists here.

Where to stay in Pitigliano:

Casa Messi≫ – Location in the very center of the old town of Pitigliano, just a few steps from the Jewish Museum and the central square. Extremely cozy little apartment with a unique touch. Keep in mind – you have to leave your car in the parking lot outside the old town.
il Cantuccio≫ – Great place to stay to visit the city. The apartment is located in a very old building that has been tastefully renovated and is very close to various restaurants. The owner provides information on the best parking in the city.

15. Saturnia Hot Springs

The resort town of Saturnia is famous for its natural hot springs. Located in southern Tuscany, in the province of Grosseto. These thermal springs are very famous all over the world – you have definitely seen photos of the old mill with cascades of travertine and warm water.

This place is called Cascate del Mulino, a picturesque waterfall with turquoise pools that form a unique natural location. Here you can comfortably relax in the natural pools of a healing sulfur spring and enjoy the unique atmosphere. This place is free to visit – so bring towels and swimsuits. For those who prefer filtered water and pools, a better option would be to visit the Saturnia Thermal Baths, which are located in the immediate vicinity. There are several pools on site, and you can also book spa and wellness treatments.

Where to stay near the Saturnia Baths

CASA MAIRA IN CENTRO A SATURNIA≫ – The location is great – in the center of Saturnia, right next to the stunning town square, which is home to many restaurants and beautiful places.
Agriturismo La Sede Di Carlo≫ – The country house has nice clean rooms. A good option if you are traveling by car to stay one night to visit the hot springs early in the morning. Delicious breakfasts are offered to guests.

Useful articles and links:

Find train tickets in Europe conveniently on Trainline
Booking of hotels and apartments – Booking.com
Hire a car – Rentalcars.com