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4-Day Tuscany Itinerary: Local's Guide to Shopping & Sightseeing

Tuscany, Italy

4 days

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

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 Florence: From the Duomo to the Arno River

Morning

Start your day in the heart of Florence, exploring the historic center. Visit the iconic Duomo, the city's cathedral, and marvel at its stunning architecture. Wander around the nearby streets, soaking in the atmosphere of this Renaissance city.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch in a local trattoria. Try the region's famous dishes like ribollita, a hearty vegetable and bread soup, or pappa al pomodoro, a thick tomato and bread soup.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon shopping along Via de' Tornabuoni, Florence's most famous shopping street. Here you'll find a mix of high-end fashion boutiques and local artisan shops.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local osteria, where you can sample more Tuscan cuisine, including the famous bistecca alla fiorentina, a large T-bone steak cooked over a wood fire.

Evening

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

Morning

Head to the charming town of Siena. Start your day with a visit to the stunning Siena Cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian Romanesque-Gothic architecture.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of Siena's many charming piazzas, sampling local specialties like pici pasta and panforte, a traditional dessert.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring Siena's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Piazza del Campo, one of Europe's greatest medieval squares, and the Palazzo Pubblico.

Dinner

Dine in a local trattoria, trying dishes like cinghiale (wild boar) and pecorino cheese, both specialties of the region.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk around the city walls, enjoying the stunning views of the Tuscan countryside.

Morning

Start your day in the picturesque town of Lucca. Visit the well-preserved Renaissance walls that encircle the historic city center.

Lunch

Have lunch in one of Lucca's many charming cafes, sampling local dishes like tortelli lucchese, a type of pasta filled with meat.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring Lucca's many churches and piazzas. Don't miss the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, a circular square built on the site of an ancient Roman amphitheater.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a local osteria, trying dishes like farro soup, a hearty dish made with spelt, a grain that's been grown in the region for centuries.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the top of Lucca's city walls, enjoying the beautiful views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Morning

Start your day in the beautiful city of Pisa. Visit the iconic Leaning Tower and the stunning Pisa Cathedral.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of Pisa's many charming piazzas, sampling local specialties like cecina, a chickpea pancake.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring Pisa's historic center, visiting landmarks like the Piazza dei Cavalieri and the Church of Santa Maria della Spina.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local trattoria, trying dishes like baccalà alla pisana, a traditional dish made with salted cod.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk along the Arno River, enjoying the beautiful views of the city lit up at night.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

Duomo

1
Duomo

The Duomo, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is a stunning masterpiece of Gothic architecture. One of the most iconic structures in Florence.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Via de' Tornabuoni

2
Via de' Tornabuoni

One of the most famous streets in Florence known for its luxury boutiques and historical buildings.

Shopping
Neighborhoods
Siena Cathedral

3
Siena Cathedral

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

Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Piazza del Campo

4
Piazza del Campo

One of Europe's greatest medieval squares, the principal public space of the historic center of Siena.

Attractions
Landmarks
Neighborhoods
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro

5
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro

A public square in the northeast quadrant of walled center of Lucca, Italy. The ring of buildings surrounding the square follows the shape of a Roman amphitheater.

Attractions
Landmarks
Lucca's city walls

6
Lucca's city walls

A well-preserved Renaissance-era city walls that now serve as a pedestrian promenade.

Attractions
Landmarks
Leaning Tower

7
Leaning Tower

The freestanding bell tower, of the cathedral of the Italian city of Pisa, known worldwide for its nearly four-degree lean.

Attractions
Landmarks
Pisa Cathedral

8
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
Piazza dei Cavalieri

9
Piazza dei Cavalieri

A public square that was the political centre in medieval Pisa. A place where you can admire buildings that bear witness to the city's history.

Attractions
Landmarks
Church of Santa Maria della Spina

10
Church of Santa Maria della Spina

A small church in the Italian city of Pisa known for its Gothic architecture and housing of the sacred relic of the Madonna's thorn.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture

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

  • Underwear for 5 days

  • Socks for 5 days

  • 2-3 pairs of pants or shorts

  • 4-5 shirts (mix of short sleeve and long sleeve)

  • 1 light jacket or sweater

  • 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes

  • 1 pair of dress shoes

  • 1 dressy outfit for fine dining

  • 1 swimsuit

  • 1 hat for sun protection

  • 1 pair of sunglasses

  • 1 rain jacket or umbrella

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency (Euros)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental reservations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal power adapter

  • Digital camera or GoPro

  • Charger for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Headphones or earbuds

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Snacks for travel

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Travel-sized hand sanitizer

  • Face masks

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

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