Welcome to Florence, the birthplace of Renaissance art and architecture! Spend your first day getting to know the city, starting with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery - home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and other famous Italian artists. Afterwards, head to the Piazza della Signoria for a dose of authentic Italian culture and cuisine.
Today, dive deeper into Florence's rich historical and cultural heritage by visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, a breathtaking Gothic masterpiece with an impressive Renaissance dome. Afterwards, check out the famous Ponte Vecchio, a medieval stone bridge that spans the Arno River, and shop for leather goods and jewelry. End your day at the Basilica of Santa Croce, a beautiful Franciscan church filled with stunning frescoes and tombs of famous Italians, such as Michelangelo and Galileo.
Escape the bustle of the city and take a scenic drive to the picturesque Tuscan countryside. Your destination? Chianti, the heart of the world-renowned Chianti wine region. Here, you'll visit a few of the best vineyards in the area, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy delicious regional specialties, such as bruschetta, pasta, and local cheeses.
Today, experience the medieval charm of two beautiful Tuscan towns: Siena and San Gimignano. In Siena, visit the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, see the iconic Piazza del Campo, and explore the fascinating Gothic-style Palazzo Pubblico. Afterwards, drive to San Gimignano, known for its impressive 14Towers and outstanding Vernaccia white wine.
Lucca, a charming walled city in Tuscany, invites you to discover its hidden gems on two wheels. Rent a bike and pedal through its narrow streets, medieval towers, and stunning Renaissance walls. Stop by the beautiful Church of San Michele in Foro, the scenic Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, and the famous Tower Guinigi, which boasts a beautiful garden on its rooftop.
It's time to explore the stunning coastline of Liguria, specifically the five idyllic fishing villages known as Cinque Terre. Take a train or hike along the rugged cliffs and terraced vineyards of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure to stop in each of the five villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Take a break from sightseeing and treat yourself to a relaxing day at the Saturnia Thermal Baths, famous for their healing properties and breathtaking scenery. Soak in the warm, sulfurous waters and enjoy the natural cascades and pools surrounded by lush forest.
Today, visit two of the most historic cities in Tuscany. First, head to Pisa, home to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, the grandiose Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and the magnificent Baptistery. Then, drive to the coastal city of Livorno, a lively port town with a multicultural history and delicious seafood cuisine.
Get ready for a day of indulgence and discovery as you visit two of the most prestigious wine regions in Tuscany: Montalcino and Montepulciano. Sample some of the finest Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano while admiring the breathtaking views of the rolling hills and vineyards.
Your unforgettable journey through Tuscany and Florence has come to an end. Head to the Florence Airport for your flight back home.
During your trip to Florence and Tuscany, you can use public transportation (such as trains and buses) or rental cars to get around the area. It's important to note that while public transportation is usually more affordable, it may not always be the most convenient option. Rental cars can be more expensive, but they offer more flexibility and allow you to explore the countryside at your own pace. Overall, expect to spend around €150-200 for transportation costs, depending on your preferred mode of travel.
If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to the historic city of Bologna, which is renowned for its stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and mouth-watering cuisine. You could also spend more time exploring the charming towns of Tuscany, such as Volterra, Arezzo, and Cortona.
If you have fewer than 10 days, you may want to skip some of the suggested activities or shorten your stay in certain cities. For instance, you could spend fewer days in Florence and more in the surrounding countryside, or you could skip the thermal baths or the wine tasting experiences if you're on a tight schedule.
The main airport in Florence is Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR), located approximately 4 kilometers northwest of Florence's city center. The closest airport to Tuscany is Pisa International Airport (PSA), which is situated about 70 kilometers west of Florence. Both airports are connected to major European cities and offer various transportation options to get to your desired destination.