​

4-Day Ultimate Tuscany Family Experience: Food, Wine & Sightseeing

Tuscany, Italy

4 days

Farmhouse and fields in the Crete Senesi area
Pisa Cathedral and the Leaning Tower
Cobblestone alley with traditional stone houses
Terme Tettuccio in the town of Montecatini Terme
Green hills and lavender flowers

About Tuscany, Italy

Experience the heart of Italy in Tuscany, a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and world-class wines. Discover the enchanting cities of Florence, Pisa, and Siena, each brimming with iconic architecture and priceless art. Explore the picturesque countryside dotted with medieval hilltop towns, vineyards, and olive groves. Indulge in the region's gastronomic delights, from its famous Chianti wines to its mouthwatering local cuisine. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, culinary adventures, or simply the serene beauty of the Tuscan countryside, Tuscany offers an unforgettable Italian experience. Let us plan your perfect Tuscan getaway.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Artistic Beauty of Florence

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful city of Florence. Explore the historic center, with its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to visit the famous Uffizi Gallery, home to some of the world's most important works of art.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch in a local trattoria. Try some of the region's specialties, such as ribollita soup, pappa al pomodoro, and a glass of Chianti wine.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets of Florence. Visit the famous Ponte Vecchio, the beautiful Boboli Gardens, and the impressive Palazzo Pitti.

Dinner

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local osteria. Try the bistecca alla fiorentina, a traditional Florentine steak, paired with a glass of local wine.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Arno River, enjoying the beautiful views of the city at night.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the medieval city of Siena. Explore the city's historic center, with its beautiful piazza and impressive cathedral.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch in a local trattoria in Siena. Try some of the region's specialties, such as pici pasta and a glass of Brunello di Montalcino wine.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Tuscan countryside. Visit a local vineyard for a wine tasting and learn about the region's winemaking traditions.

Dinner

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local agriturismo. Try some of the farm's own produce, paired with a glass of local wine.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing evening at your accommodation, enjoying the beautiful Tuscan countryside.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful city of Pisa. Don't miss the chance to see the famous Leaning Tower and the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch in a local trattoria in Pisa. Try some of the region's specialties, such as cacciucco, a local seafood stew.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets of Pisa. Visit the beautiful Botanical Garden and the impressive Pisa Cathedral.

Dinner

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local osteria. Try the baccalà alla pisana, a traditional Pisan dish, paired with a glass of local wine.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Arno River, enjoying the beautiful views of the city at night.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful town of Lucca. Explore the town's historic center, with its beautiful piazza and impressive cathedral.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch in a local trattoria in Lucca. Try some of the region's specialties, such as tortelli lucchese and a glass of local wine.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets of Lucca. Visit the famous Guinigi Tower and the beautiful Palazzo Pfanner.

Dinner

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local osteria. Try the farro soup, a traditional Lucchese dish, paired with a glass of local wine.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing evening at your accommodation, reminiscing about your wonderful Tuscan adventure.

Attractions in Itinerary (14)

Uffizi Gallery

One of the most important Italian museums, and the most visited, it is also one of the largest and best known in the world, and holds a collection of priceless works, particularly from the period of the Italian Renaissance.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Ponte Vecchio

2
Ponte Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio is a medieval stone closed-spandrel segmental arch bridge over the Arno River, noted for still having shops built along it, as was once common.

Attractions
Landmarks
Boboli Gardens

3
Boboli Gardens

The Boboli Gardens is a historic park in the city of Florence that opened to the public in 1766. Originally designed for the Medici, it represents one of the first and most important examples of the 'Italian Garden'.

Attractions
Parks
Gardens
Palazzo Pitti

4
Palazzo Pitti

A vast, mainly Renaissance, palace in Florence, which houses several important museums.

Attractions
Monuments
Museums
Architecture
Piazza dei Miracoli

5
Piazza dei Miracoli

Also known as the Square of Miracles, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest architectural complexes in the world.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Pisa Cathedral

6
Pisa Cathedral

A medieval Roman Catholic cathedral dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, in the Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Guinigi Tower

7
Guinigi Tower

A tower in Lucca with a garden on its top, it offers panoramic views of the city.

Monuments
Landmarks
Architecture
Palazzo Pfanner

8
Palazzo Pfanner

A palace in Lucca known for its beautiful gardens and historical interiors.

Attractions
Monuments
Museums
Gardens
Architecture
Botanical Garden of Pisa

9
Botanical Garden of Pisa

One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, it's home to a vast collection of plants and scientific instruments.

Attractions
Parks
Gardens
Leaning Tower of Pisa

10
Leaning Tower of Pisa

A world-famous freestanding bell tower known for its unintended tilt.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Lucca's historic center

11
Lucca's historic center

Known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls encircling the historic city center.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
Siena Cathedral

12
Siena Cathedral

A magnificent Italian Romanesque-Gothic cathedral. Its main façade was completed in 1380.

Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Siena's historic center

13
Siena's historic center

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's known for its medieval brick buildings.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
Tuscan vineyard

14
Tuscan vineyard

A place where you can tour the vineyards, taste local wines, and learn about the wine-making process.

Tours
Food and Drink

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A large, thick cut of T-bone steak from the Chianina cattle breed, traditionally cooked over a wood or charcoal fire. It's a must-try dish for meat lovers visiting Tuscany.

Panzanella

Panzanella

A traditional Tuscan salad made from stale bread soaked in water and squeezed dry, then mixed with fresh tomatoes, onions, basil, olive oil, vinegar, and salt. It's a perfect example of Tuscan cuisine's resourcefulness.

Pappa al Pomodoro

A thick, hearty soup made from ripe tomatoes, stale bread, olive oil, garlic, and basil. This dish is a staple of Tuscan cuisine and a testament to the region's love for simple, flavorful ingredients.

Ribollita

Ribollita

A hearty Tuscan soup made from bread and vegetables, including cabbage, beans, and onions. Ribollita means 'reboiled' in Italian, as the soup was traditionally made by reheating leftover minestrone or vegetable soup from the previous day.

Crostini Toscani

Toasted bread topped with a flavorful chicken liver pate. This appetizer is a staple in Tuscan cuisine and is often served at the start of a meal.

Chianti

Chianti

A robust red wine produced in the Chianti region in Tuscany. It's known for its bold flavor and high acidity, making it a perfect pairing for rich Tuscan dishes.

Vin Santo

Vin Santo

A sweet dessert wine made from dried grapes. In Tuscany, it's traditionally served with cantucci (almond biscuits) for dipping.

Cantucci

Cantucci

Almond biscuits that are traditionally served with Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine. The biscuits are twice-baked, making them perfect for dipping.

Pecorino Toscano

Pecorino Toscano

A firm, sheep's milk cheese that's produced in Tuscany. It can be enjoyed on its own, with bread, or with a drizzle of honey.

Prosciutto Toscano

A type of dry-cured ham that's produced in Tuscany. It's typically seasoned with a mix of local spices and herbs, giving it a distinct, flavorful taste.

Acquacotta

Acquacotta

A traditional Tuscan soup that was originally a peasant dish. It's made with simple ingredients like onions, tomatoes, olive oil, and stale bread, and often includes a poached egg.

Lampredotto

Lampredotto

A popular street food in Tuscany, lampredotto is a sandwich made from the fourth stomach of a cow, typically served with a spicy sauce or a green sauce made from parsley.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Tuscany, Italy is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and the crowds are less intense than in the peak summer season. The countryside is in full bloom in spring, while the fall offers a beautiful display of autumn colors. Additionally, many local food festivals occur in the fall, providing a rich cultural experience.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

April 25

Thu

Liberation Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

June 2

Sun

Republic Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

St. Stephen's Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is one of the most popular ways to get around Tuscany. It gives you the freedom to explore the region at your own pace and visit remote areas that are not easily accessible by public transport. Remember to familiarize yourself with the Italian driving laws and regulations before your trip.

Tuscany has a comprehensive train network that connects all the major cities and towns. The trains are comfortable and punctual, making it a convenient way to travel around the region. The main train stations in Tuscany are in Florence, Pisa, and Siena.

Buses are another common mode of transport in Tuscany. They are especially useful for reaching smaller towns and villages that are not served by the train network. The bus service in Tuscany is reliable and relatively inexpensive.

Cycling is a popular and eco-friendly way to explore Tuscany. The region is known for its beautiful landscapes and cycling routes. You can rent a bicycle in most towns and cities.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in some parts of Tuscany, including Florence and Pisa. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group.

Taxis are readily available in all major towns and cities in Tuscany. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or found at taxi ranks. Taxis are metered, so the fare will depend on the distance traveled.

Many of Tuscany's towns and cities, such as Florence, Pisa, and Siena, are best explored on foot. These places have pedestrian-friendly city centers with many attractions located within walking distance of each other.

Renting a scooter is a fun and efficient way to get around Tuscany. It allows you to navigate the narrow streets of the towns and villages with ease. However, you should be comfortable with driving a scooter and aware of the local traffic rules.

For a more comfortable and hassle-free travel experience, you can hire a private driver. This service is particularly useful for those planning to visit multiple destinations in one day or those who prefer not to drive themselves.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 118; Fire: 112, 115; Police: 112, 113;

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type FPower socket type L

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Tuscany, Italy as a first time visitor

1

Tuscany is located in central Italy and is known for its landscapes, history, artistic legacy, and its influence on high culture.

2

The official language is Italian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The currency used in Tuscany is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

4

Tuscany has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average summer temperature is around 86°F (30°C), while in winter it can drop to around 46°F (8°C).

5

Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but it is appreciated. In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is considered generous.

6

Tuscany is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

7

Public transportation is reliable and extensive. It includes buses, trams, and trains. Renting a car is also a good option if you plan to explore rural areas.

8

It's important to dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered.

9

Italy uses type L power sockets. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

10

Tap water is safe to drink in Tuscany, and it's common to order tap water in restaurants.

11

Italians usually have a light breakfast, a large lunch, and a late dinner. Don't be surprised if restaurants don't open for dinner until 7:30 PM or later.

12

Tuscany is known for its wine, so consider visiting a local vineyard or participating in a wine tasting.

13

Be aware that many shops and businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon for 'riposo', or rest time.

14

It's common to greet people with two kisses, one on each cheek, starting with the right. This is typically only between friends and family, not between strangers.

15

It's customary to say 'buongiorno' (good morning) or 'buonasera' (good evening) when entering shops and restaurants.

16

Many museums and attractions are closed on Mondays.

17

It's common in Italy to charge a 'coperto', a small cover charge for bread and service, in restaurants.

18

Pharmacies in Italy are marked by a green cross and have limited operating hours. For emergencies, look for a 'farmacia di turno', which is open 24 hours.

19

In case of emergency, the general emergency number in Italy is 112.

20

Travel insurance is recommended for all travelers to cover any unexpected incidents or cancellations.

Basic Italian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Ciao

Chow

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Arrivederci

Ah-ree-veh-der-chee

Saying goodbye

Please

Per favore

Per fa-voh-reh

Making a request

Thank you

Grazie

Gra-tsee-eh

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Sì

See

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

No

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Scusa

Skoo-sah

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Non capisco

Non ka-peeskoh

Communicating lack of understanding

Do you speak English?

Parli inglese?

Par-lee in-gleh-zeh?

Asking if someone speaks English

I'm sorry

Mi dispiace

Mee dee-spya-che

Apologizing

Where is...?

Dove è...?

Doh-veh eh...?

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Bagno

Bahn-yoh

Looking for the restroom

Help

Aiuto

Ah-yoo-toh

In case of emergency

Good morning

Buongiorno

Bwon-jor-no

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

Buonanotte

Bwoh-na-not-te

Saying goodnight

Food

Cibo

Chee-boh

Talking about food

Water

Acqua

Ah-kwah

Asking for water

Check, please

Il conto, per favore

Il con-toh, per fa-voh-reh

Asking for the bill in a restaurant

How much does it cost?

Quanto costa?

Kwan-toh cost-ah?

Asking the price of something

I would like...

Vorrei...

Voh-rey...

Making a request or order

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimsuit

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Pajamas

  • Dressy outfit for fine dining

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and tour confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone and charger

  • Camera and charger

  • Headphones

  • Travel adapter for Italy

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook for Tuscany

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Snacks

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Umbrella

  • Laundry bag

  • Ziplock bags for toiletries

  • Tote bag for day trips

Weather Conditions

Tuscany, Italy is a region known for its mild Mediterranean climate, which makes it an attractive destination for tourists year-round. However, the weather can vary depending on the season, so it's essential to plan your visit accordingly. Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Tuscany, as the weather is generally mild with temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (15-24°C). It's an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing. However, it's also the start of the rainy season, so don't forget to pack a light raincoat or umbrella. Summer (June to August) in Tuscany can get quite hot, with temperatures often reaching up to 90°F (32°C). It's a great time for beach activities along the Tuscan coast. However, the heat can be intense, especially in the cities, so it's advisable to stay hydrated and wear sun protection. Autumn (September to November) sees a drop in temperatures, ranging from 50-70°F (10-21°C), and an increase in rainfall. It's a fantastic time to visit if you're interested in wine, as it's the grape harvest season. Just remember to pack some warm clothing and rain gear. Winter (December to February) in Tuscany is relatively mild compared to other parts of Europe, with temperatures usually between 40-55°F (4-13°C). It's the perfect time to explore the cities without the crowds, but do pack warm clothing as it can get chilly, especially in the evenings. Regardless of when you visit, remember that the weather can change quickly in Tuscany, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast regularly and pack layers to accommodate varying temperatures. Enjoy your trip to this beautiful region!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

13° / 1°

January is the coldest month in Tuscany, with temperatures often dropping to near freezing. It's a quiet time for tourism, so you'll have the region's attractions mostly to yourself.

February

14° / 2°

February is still quite chilly, but the days are getting longer. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy the region's indoor attractions.

March

17° / 5°

March sees the start of spring in Tuscany, with temperatures gradually warming up. The countryside begins to bloom, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities.

April

20° / 8°

April is a pleasant month in Tuscany, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the region's vineyards and olive groves.

May

23° / 11°

May is a wonderful time to visit Tuscany, with warm temperatures and long, sunny days. The countryside is in full bloom and the region's festivals begin.

June

27° / 15°

June marks the start of summer in Tuscany, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to visit the region's beaches and enjoy outdoor dining.

July

30° / 18°

July is the hottest month in Tuscany, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees. It's a busy time for tourism, with many festivals and events taking place.

August

30° / 18°

August is another hot month in Tuscany, with temperatures similar to July. It's a popular time for tourists, so expect crowded beaches and busy attractions.

September

27° / 15°

September sees the start of autumn in Tuscany, with temperatures gradually cooling down. The vineyards are in full harvest, making it a great time for wine lovers.

October

23° / 11°

October is a pleasant month in Tuscany, with mild temperatures and beautiful autumn colors. It's a quieter time for tourism, so it's a good time to visit if you want to avoid crowds.

November

19° / 7°

November is a cooler month in Tuscany, with temperatures dropping and more rainfall. It's a quiet time for tourism, but you can still enjoy the region's indoor attractions.

December

15° / 3°

December is a chilly month in Tuscany, with temperatures often dropping to near freezing. It's a festive time in the region, with Christmas markets and events taking place.

Did you know?

Did you know that Tuscany, Italy is the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, which was a period of great cultural change and achievement?

1 of 10

Places near by Tuscany, Italy

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Leaning Tower of Pisa

One of the most famous landmarks in Italy, known for its unintended tilt.

1.3h
85 km / 52.8 mi
How to get there
Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre

A string of centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline.

2h
150 km / 93.2 mi
How to get there
Bologna

Bologna

Known for its beauty, wealth, cuisine, and left-wing politics, its porticoes stretch for a total of 38 kilometers.

35m
100 km / 62.1 mi
How to get there
San Marino

San Marino

One of the world's smallest countries, it's surrounded by Italy and known for its medieval architecture.

3h
200 km / 124.3 mi
How to get there
Rome

Rome

Italy's capital, is a sprawling, cosmopolitan city with nearly 3,000 years of globally influential art, architecture and culture on display.

1.5h
275 km / 170.9 mi
How to get there
Portofino

Portofino

An Italian fishing village and holiday resort famous for its picturesque harbour and historical association with celebrity and artistic visitors.

3h
200 km / 124.3 mi
How to get there
Milan

Milan

A metropolis in Italy's northern Lombardy region, is a global capital of fashion and design.

1.8h
300 km / 186.4 mi
How to get there
Venice

Venice

Known for its beautiful canals, gondolas, and stunning architecture.

2h
260 km / 161.6 mi
How to get there
Verona

Verona

A city in northern Italy’s Veneto region, with a medieval old town built between the meandering Adige River.

2.2h
230 km / 142.9 mi
How to get there
Monaco

Monaco

A tiny independent city-state on France’s Mediterranean coastline known for its upscale casinos, yacht-lined harbor and prestigious Grand Prix motor race.

4h
400 km / 248.5 mi
How to get there

Other Destinations in Italy