Best 7 Day Tuscany Itinerary

Planning a One Week Tuscany Trip? Good for you! Our 7 Day Tuscany Itinerary highlights exactly what to see and do to make the most of your vacation!

We understand that planning a 7 Day Itinerary for Tuscany is a big task – but don’t worry! We cover everything you need to know – from the best things to do in Tuscany to the essential trip planning details.

 

About Our Best Trip To Tuscany Itinerary 

Our outlined 7 Day Tuscany Itinerary is an easy-flowing, day-by-day plan. It features the most beautiful towns in Tuscany, along with what to see, do and eat at each spot.

Plus, we have specific posts for each location that offer detailed tips and insider tricks. The destinations we recommend visiting are Florence, Chianti, Pisa, Lucca, Siena and San Gimignano.

 

Florence

The capital of Tuscany, Florence is a must-see city on your vacation! Highlights include astounding Renaissance architecture, some of the best museums in the world, beautiful gardens and historic districts. Read more in our complete guide to Florence in 3 Days. 

 

Chianti

The famous Tuscany wine region of Chianti is idyllic! We recommend visiting Chianti on an excursion from Florence – either a wine tasting tour, Vespa scooter ride or bicycling adventure. 

 

Pisa

The iconic Leaning Tower is the standout attraction in Pisa, but the inviting city boasts a few more sights that are well worth seeing! Find detailed info in our article, Things To Do in Pisa, Italy.

 

Lucca

The walled city of Lucca is a Medieval wonder! Compact (but absolutely crammed with stunning churches and grand villas), Lucca is a maze of narrow, cobblestone lanes that lead to spacious squares. Use our Lucca Sightseeing Guide for your visit.

 

Siena

Beautiful Siena is a much-loved hilltop town and a top destination on a Tuscany One Week Trip. A quintessential Tuscan town, it’s a place to wander and soak in the charm. Learn more about What To See in Siena.

 

San Gimignano

Known for its ancient towers, San Gimignano offers visitors a glimpse of life in Tuscany in the Middle Ages. Travelers can easily cover the sights on a day trip with our Guide to San Gimignano. 

 

Best Place To Stay in Tuscany

We believe that there are essentially two ways to plan travel to Tuscany – either stay in multiple locations or opt for one place and take day trips.

In our 1 Week in Tuscany Itinerary, we recommend staying overnight in two different places – 4 days in Florence and 3 days in Siena – and taking at least one day trip from each.

That said, visitors could plan to stay 1 Week in Florence and take multiple day trips – including to Siena.

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Best Tuscany Itinerary 7 Days

Now that we have covered some of the basics, it’s time to launch into our day-by-day Tuscany travel plan.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Tuscany Travel Guide to plan your trip to Italy!

 

DAY 1: Essential Florence, Italy

Start your 1 Week in Tuscany, Italy in the exquisite city of Florence. Read our Travel Tips for Florence, then jump straight into sightseeing at the most famous attractions.

 

Florence Sights To See on Day 1

Begin at the famous Ponte Vecchio Bridge, then step into the statue-laden Piazza della Signoria to see Palazzo Vecchio.

Stroll up Florence’s shopping street, Via dei Calzaiuoli, to Piazza della Repubblica and stop for a coffee at one of the classic cafes.

Make your way to Piazza Santa Maria Novella. Consider popping into the Strozzi Palace Museum or historic Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy before visiting the Santa Maria Novella Basilica.

Enjoy lunch at the Florence Central Market, then peruse the leather goods at the San Lorenzo Market.

Watch the time, however, because the next sight is one of the best in Florence: The David at Galleria dell’Accademia Art Museum. 

Wind your way through Piazza della Santissima Annunziata to the city’s most astounding square, Piazza Duomo.

It is home to the famed Florence Cathedral, bell tower and baptistery. Visitors should pre-book tours if they wish to climb to the top of the dome.

Complete your essential sightseeing in Florence by routing your way to Ponte Santa Trinita, where you can catch the fading light across the stunning architecture.

Travel Tip: Get an easy introduction to Florence by using our Free Self Guided Walking Tour. Alternatively, join this popular group tour and let a guide lead the way.

 

Pizza for Dinner 

End the first day of your weeklong trip to Tuscany with pizza at the popular Gustapizza, one of our Favorite Florence Restaurants.

There will be a line, but it tends to move quickly – and you can sip a beverage while you wait. The signature Gustapizza is always a good bet – but the Calabrese and Turtufo are excellent choices, too!

Just be sure to save room for dessert. After dinner, get a gelato at Gelateria Santa Trinita and enjoy it as you stroll along the Arno River at night.

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DAY 2: Florence Oltrarno District

Spend the entire day exploring Oltrarno on our DIY Walk. The area features quaint streets, classic architecture, charming churches, incredible museums, gorgeous gardens and the absolute best viewpoint of Florence!

 

Oltrarno Sightseeing

Begin your day in Oltrarno on one of the district’s historic streets, Borgo San Frediano. See the massive Porta San Frediano Gate and swing by Libreria Café la Cite for a coffee or tea.

Now visit a few of Oltrarno’s best-known churches. We suggest seeing Santa Maria del Carmine (and the frescoed Cappella Brancacci), the Brunelleschi-designed Santo Spirito Basilica and the Church of Santa Felicita.

For lunch, indulge in a Florentine specialty – a Tuscan Schiacciata Sandwich – at Schiaccia Passera (the La Svampita is our top pick!).

Balance the salty, cured meat lunch with a sweet, homemade gelato from the Gelateria della Passera shop just opposite.

After lunch, visit the vast Pitti Palace. Once home to the powerful Medici family, the palace now contains five of the best Florence museums.

Be sure to buy the combo ticket that includes the Boboli Gardens and Villa Bardini Gardens – both are lush green spaces, not to be missed!

In the early evening, start making your way up toward Piazzale Michelangelo – the best viewpoint in Florence.

First though, walk through Giardino della Rose Garden and visit the hill-topping Basilica of San Miniato al Monte.

Then, find a spot on the stairs at Piazzale Michelangelo to watch as the sun starts to set over the city.

 

Classic Tuscan Dinner 

After taking in the view, work your way back into the heart of Oltrarno for a traditional Tuscan meal and after-dinner drinks.

Trattoria 4 Leoni and Osteria Cinghiale Bianco are two of our top choices – but reservations are a must. If you didn’t book ahead, join the queue at Osteria Santo Spirito (they pass out wine while you wait).

Regardless of where you eat, enjoy al fresco drinks on the buzzing Santo Spirito Square to end your second day in Tuscany

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DAY 3: Florence and Chianti

Day 3 of your Tuscany Itinerary features more of the best Florence attractions in the morning. In the afternoon, join a tour into the countryside.

 

Florence Sightseeing

Start off the way that many locals do – at Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio. Peruse the in-season produce and specialty meats and cheeses, then sift through the wares at the Nuovo Mercato della Pulei flea market.

Next, visit the grandiose Santa Croce Basilica, a remarkable church that serves as the final resting place for many of Florence’s most famous residents (like Michelangelo and Galileo).

Spend the rest of the morning inside the Uffizi Gallery. Hosting one of the best art collections in the world, the Uffizi Art Museum is a must-see in Tuscany! To make the most of your visit, consider joining a guided tour. 

Feast on another Schiacciata Sandwich for lunch. Try one of the creative combos at the highly rated All’Antico Vinaio or get personal recommendations at family-run Pino’s.

 

Explore Chianti

Travelers eager to explore Tuscany can set off on a day trip that adventures into the rolling landscapes of Chianti.

Our top recommendation is to join a Chianti Wine Tour that includes tasting at two wineries. The coach bus tour is quick, inexpensive and fun! 

Alternatively, discover Tuscany on an iconic Vespa Tour. A guide leads the small group through scenic hills and features a traditional meal at a country estate. 

Another option is to spend the morning cycling through Chianti on one of the popular bike tours in Tuscany (and visit the markets and museums in the afternoon).

Participants pedal through valleys and past vine-covered hills – and the tour includes a wine tasting at a Medieval castle. Find out more!

 

Florence Steak Dinner 

Dinner will be an indulgent affair of a Florence must-try dish: Florentine Steak at Trattoria Za Za.

The very large (and very rare) steak is grilled over hot coals and it is big enough to share with at least two people. It’s decadent and pricey…but make reservations in advance to ensure you don’t miss out!

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DAY 4: Tuscany Day Trip 

Next up on your One Week in Tuscany Itinerary is an excursion to the towns of Pisa and Lucca. Because of the close proximity and easy train connections, both can be visited in a single day.

 

Pisa and Lucca Day Trip

Get an early start and embark on a day trip to Western Tuscany and the towns of Pisa and Lucca.

Visitors can use trains (or buses) to complete this day trip on their own – or join a top-rated organized tour with a knowledgeable guide.

 

Pisa Sightseeing

Pisa is known the world over for its gravity defying Leaning Tower – but there is so much more to see! Read our Guide to Pisa for top tips and advice.

Start your sightseeing in Pisa in Piazza dei Miracoli. It is home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, as well as the stunning Cathedral, the grand Baptistry, the Old Cemetery and the Fountain of Angels.

Take your time to enjoy the sights on the square, which are truly works of art – and consider gaining a different perspective atop the Pisa city walls.

Next, wander through the streets to the spacious Piazza dei Cavalieri, which is ringed with magnificent architecture. Then, stroll down the historic Borgo Stretto shopping street (stopping at Salza for pastry treats!).

Visit a few of the Pisa churches – like Chiesa di San Michele in Borgo, the Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria and Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina.

Walk along the Arno to take in the views and, if time allows, visit some of the riverfront museums – like Palazzo Blu and the National Museum of the Royal Palace.

Grab a quick bite from the incredibly popular I Porci Comodi – and then hop on a train to Lucca!

 

Sightseeing in Lucca

Lucca is completely encircled by walls and is known as The City with a Hundred Churches. Our Lucca Travel Guide highlights all the pertinent details.

The first sight you’ll see are the brick fortifications…and biking along the top of the walls is one of the best things to do. After taking in the views from the Mura di Lucca, descend into the historic town center.

Continue on to Piazza Napoleone. From this main square, meander to more top sights – like St. Martin Cathedral, Torre delle Ore (fabulous views from the top), San Michele in Foro Church and the oval Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.

Pop into the Puccini Museum to learn about Italian Opera Composer (and Lucca native), Giacomo Puccini. Next, visit the Museum of Villa Mansi, a 15th century palace filled with art and period furnishings.

Seek out some of Lucca’s many churches – like Chiesa di Santa Maria Corteorlandini, Basilica di San Frediano and Chiesa di Santa Maria Foris Portam.

Or, if the outdoors are more your style, visit the pretty gardens at Palazzo Pfanner and the Orto Botanical Gardens.

For a truly elevated and unique view, climb up the Guinigi Tower – a Lucca landmark boasting a rooftop garden.

 

Dinner in Lucca

Rather than rushing back to Florence, consider lingering a bit longer in Lucca to enjoy an exceptional meal at Gigi Trattoria.

The family-run restaurant excels at cooking traditional Tuscan cuisine and is particularly known for their homemade pasta dishes.

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DAY 5: Siena Sightseeing

On Day 5 of your Tuscany in One Week Trip, pack up your bags and depart Florence (by bus or train) for Siena. We recommend arriving by early afternoon, quickly getting settled in and then setting off to see the sights!

 

What To Do in Siena

Start your tour of Siena with a satisfying Tuscan lunch at Pretto Prosciutteria e Convivio. Try the regional specialty, a Lampredotto sandwich, or a Tuscan ‘cutting board’ selection of cheeses and meats.

When you are ready to start exploring, use our Siena Guide for detailed info and an easy-to-follow walking tour. Otherwise, join a highly touted Siena Guided Tour.

Begin your tour at the impressive Camollia City Gate and walk down the pleasantly curving Via dei Montanini Street.

Step into Piazza Salimbeni, which is flanked by palaces that now house the oldest continuously operating bank in the world.

Make your way past Piazza Tolomei and the lavish Loggia della Mercanzia to the arched entrance into Piazza del Campo – Siena’s main square.

The seashell-shaped square hosts the famed Palio Horse Race…as well as Palazzo Pubblico Town Hall.

Climb the 400 steps to the top of the Torre del Mangia Tower and gaze off into the beautiful Tuscan countryside surrounding Siena.

Next, visit the ostentatious Siena Cathedral, which is opulently decorated both inside and out (don’t miss the Piccolomini Libraray).

If there is still time left in the day, visit the adjacent Santa Maria della Scala Museum, which features impressive frescoes and historic artifacts.

 

Dinner in Siena 

On your first night in Siena, enjoy dinner at the oldest restaurant in the city, Antica Trattoria Papei. Known for their pasta dishes – we recommend trying the local Tuscan pasta, Pici.

Afterwards, get a real-fruit gelato from La Vecchia Latteria and roam along the lamp-lit lanes of Siena after dark.

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DAY 6: Tuscan Day Trip to San Gimignano

Spend Day 6 of your One Week Tuscany Itinerary visiting the unique Medieval town of San Gimignano. Travelers can go on their own – or join a tour that includes more of the region along the way.

 

Explore San Gimignano

Those who prefer to wander independently can catch a bus from Siena to San Gimignano – one of the most intriguing Tuscan towns. Our San Gimignano Travel Guide details all you need to see!

San Gimignano is known for its ‘ancient skyscrapers’ that date to the Middle Ages. The soaring structures – of which 14 still stand – were built by wealthy families to boast their great fortune.

Two towers are open to visitors – Torre Grossa (which offers sublime views) and Campatelli House (a museum featuring 19th century furnishings).

Ease into your day of sightseeing with lunch on the main thoroughfare at Bar Ristorante Boboli. Then, set off to discover one of the most appealing towns in Tuscany!

In addition to the towers, top things to see are the San Gimignano Cathedral frescoes, the Palazzo Comunale Civic Museum and Sant’Agostino Church.

The free 1300 Museum that features a miniature replica of San Gimignano from that year is also interesting to see.

For the best views of San Gimignano, make your way up to the ruins of the old fortress for a spectacular (and free) panoramic vista.

That said, simply wandering is one of the best ways to experience San Gimignano. Not to be missed are the cobblestone lanes (Via del Castello is one of the best) and Medieval squares (Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Cisterna are not to be missed).

We also recommend trying the local San Gimignano Vernaccia wine. The white wine is available at most cafes, bars and restaurants – or you can book a tasting at the Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Experience.

 

Siena for Dinner 

Plan to be back in Siena in time for your evening meal and be sure book ahead for the much-loved Osteria Permalico.

The cozy restaurant serves exceptional Tuscan food – like Wild Boar, Cinta Senese cured meats and pici.

Cap off your night with a cocktail or craft beer at San Paolo Pub, which has a few balcony seats that overlook Piazza del Campo.

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DAY 7:  Siena Experiences

On the last day of your Tuscany One Week Itinerary, discover more around Siena and visit sights associated with the city’s famous St. Catherine. Then, partake in an extraordinary Tuscan Cooking Class!

 

Sightseeing in Siena 

Set off to a less-visited side of Siena. Navigate the Old Town lanes into the various contrade – or districts – that make up the city.

Each one has its own flag, symbol and motto. Seek out the many Siena city gates, walk under the brick arches of Via della Galluzza or relax in the shade of the botanic garden.

Eat a light lunch – either a sandwich from Ke Te Voi or a few pastries from Pasticceria Nannini Conco D’Oro. It’s the most famous pastry shop in Siena.

Among all the goodies, be sure to try the local Ricciarelli almond pastry. Don’t over-indulge though, because dinner is a four-course affair!

Spend the afternoon learning about Saint Catherine. Born and raised in Siena, St. Catherine is celebrated throughout the city and holds the honor of being the patron saint of Europe.

Visit the Santuario Casa di Santa Caterina (the home where she lived), walk along the Costone Pedestrian Path (where she had her first spiritual vision) and go inside the Basilica of San Domenico (where her head and finger are on display).

Enjoy the afternoon at the old Medicea Fort – now a lovely public park that provides a stunning look at Siena. Then make your way back into the city center along the gorgeous Vista Panoramica.

 

Cooking Class in Siena

End your trip in Tuscany on a high note by learning the secrets of Tuscan cuisine! You will be shown how to prepare the dishes, as well as tips and tricks to recreate the meal at home.

Once the hard work is done, sit down for an amazing four-course feast. Space is limited, so it is best to book in advance. Buon appetito!

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Tourist Map of Tuscany, Italy

Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Tuscany Map below.

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Planning a 7 Day Trip to Tuscany

Planning a week in Tuscany will require quite a bit of effort – especially for travelers visiting from overseas.

Start with our Tips for Taking a European Vacation. If you’re visiting Tuscany from other regions of Italy, you might find these articles helpful, too.

• What To Do in Rome
• Must-See Venice
• Visiting Lecce, Italy
• Murano & Burano Day Trip
• Things To Eat in Puglia
• Venice Budget Tips
• Why We Love Treviso

 

Organize your Tuscany Trip Planning

As you begin to plan your Tuscany 7 Day Itinerary, staying organized is essential. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of the details of your Italian vacation!

 

When To Visit Tuscany for a Week

Choosing when to travel to Tuscany is an important part of trip planning. There are a few factors to consider when deciding when to plan your Tuscany One Week Vacation – like weather, crowds and budget.

 

Summer 

The summertime brings the hottest temperatures, the biggest crowds and the most expensive accommodations.

While not the ideal time to visit Tuscany, the atmosphere is buzzing, everything is open and there are fun festivals throughout the summer season.

 

Autumn 

The fall sees fewer tourists – and both temperatures and prices start to dip, but not all that significantly.

Autumn is still an incredibly popular time to visit Tuscany. The upside is the fall colors (and temperatures) and the excitement of wine harvest.

 

Winter

Marking the low season, budget travelers (as well as those who prefer fewer crowds) can save big by planning a trip to Tuscany in the winter. Plus, spending Christmas in Europe is magical!

The downside is that it can be quite cool and the landscapes are not the vibrant green that many might have imagined.

 

Spring

Springtime is our favorite time to visit Tuscany. The weather is mostly sunny (but not yet hot) and prices are relatively low.

Depending on how early or late in the spring you visit (and the weather that year), the vineyards and gardens might still be bare.

 

How To Travel in Tuscany

A big consideration for your Tuscany Week Itinerary is how to get around, and we are discussing the most common options.

 

Is a Car Necessary for Traveling to Tuscany?

No! While many contend that the best way to visit Tuscany is by car, we disagree. Driving can add an immense amount of stress and it will significantly increase your Tuscany Itinerary costs.

 

How To See Tuscany Without a Car

We didn’t have a vehicle for our Tuscany Trip, and used public transportation and joined one organized tour.

Not only is public transit affordable, but it also allowed us to relax and take in the views – rather than stressing about directions and parking.

We found the schedules on Google Maps to be fairly accurate, but checked them against the official bus and train websites.

Alternatively, leave all of the planning to a professional and join one of the multiday organized tours in Tuscany!

This top-rated 8-Day Tour in Tuscany features lesser-visited locales and the opportunity for hiking. Plus, you’ll be staying in a refurbished and cozy Tuscan farmhouse!

 

How To Get to Tuscany

There are two international airports in Tuscany – Amerigo Vespucci Airport in Florence (FLR) and Galileo Galilei International Airport in Pisa (PSA). Both are served by a variety of major and low-cost carriers.

Guglielmo Marconi Airport Bologna (BLQ) in Emilia-Romagna offers a broader schedule from more European destinations and is just over an hour by train from Florence.

Travelers from the US can get to Tuscany by flying directly into Fiumicino International Airport (FCO) in Rome or Milan Malpensa (MXP). Then take the high speed Frecciarossa train to Tuscany.

Use a robust airline search engine – like SkyScanner – to find the best routes, times and prices, but first read our tips for Finding the Best Cheap Flights. 

 

Where To Stay in Tuscany

One of the key factors in determining how to visit Tuscany is deciding where to stay. We are sharing a few top choices in each destination – but be sure to read our Tips for Cheap Hotels before booking!

 

Florence Hotels

• Palazzo Bianca Cappello – A luxury stay in the atmospheric Oltrarno District, the stunning property is elegant and boasts an attentive staff. Check availability!
• Hotel Davanzati – Offering great value for money (and an included breakfast), this hotel is a favorite for budget-conscious travelers and located right in the heart of Florence. Check rates!
• Hostel Santa Monaca – With dorm beds at bargain prices, this hostel is a top pick in Tuscany for backpackers. Book it!

 

Siena Hotels

• Palazzetto Rosso Art Hotel – A stylish property in the heart of the city, they get high marks for comfort and the included breakfast. Check availability!
• I Merli di Ada Hotel – Situated in a historic building, the renovated space offers modern conveniences, breakfast and bike rentals. Check rates!
• HostelCiompi – Offering private rooms with shared bathrooms, it’s a good pick for budget travelers to Tuscany. Book a room!

 

What To Pack for a Week in Tuscany Itinerary

Our final tips are all about packing for a Tuscany 1 Week Trip. This will largely depend on the time of year you decide to travel to Tuscany.

Therefore, we are highlighting a few must-pack items for your backpack or suitcase regardless of season. Grab our Free Packing Checklist and let’s get you to Italy!

 

Durable Shoes

Travelers using our guide for how to spend one week in Tuscany will certainly cover a lot of distance on foot.

We recommend packing lightweight and versatile shoes that are comfortable for long days of sightseeing.

I wear lite and versatile sneakers and Kris goes with these trail shoes. Find out more in our article breaking down The Best Shoes for Travelers. 

 

Travel Camera 

Our 7 Days in Tuscany Itinerary features some of the most stunning destinations in Italy. You will want to capture all that beauty with a proper travel camera.

We recommend upgrading to a DSLR – like the Canon Rebel. It’s what we’ve used since we started traveling full time in 2014 and still believe it is one of the best cameras for budget travelers. 

 

Day Bag 

It is essential to pack a good day pack for your trip. One with multiple zippered pockets (to deter pickpockets) and is big enough to stow a lightweight jacket, camera, map and everyday items is ideal.

We wear these small backpacks when sightseeing – but you can find other great styles in our Best Day Bags of Travel article. 

 

Trip Insurance

Unfortunately, travel doesn’t always go as planned. Flights get delayed, luggage gets lost and travelers get sick abroad.

With the right travel insurance, you may be able to recoup the costs of these inconveniences. Check the coverage and rates at World Nomads.

 

Start planning your trip to Italy! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing!  Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

 

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