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Plan Your Trip to Tuscany: Best of Tuscany Tourism

By Alkoss

Explore Tuscany

One of the most popular regions in Italy, Tuscany stretches from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Apennines. Its main cities include Florence, Pisa, Siena, Lucca, Arezzo and Livorno. Drive between stunning sites like Florence's cathedral and Uffizi Gallery and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Or join a bike tour and pedal past sun-baked olive groves and vineyards. Don't miss the towers of San Gimignano or serene northern hill towns. For a more modern take, hit one of Florence's hip clubs, such as Space Electronic.

Tuscany Is Great For

Wine Tastings

Farms

Art Tours

Local eats

Architecture Tours

The great outdoors

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Tuscany travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Town Recommendations

According to forum posts, Montepulciano is a highly recommended town, known for its wine cellars and beautiful landscapes. Travelers have called out Pienza for its trekking opportunities and stunning views, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Historical and Cultural Sites

For those interested in history and culture, Siena is frequently mentioned. It offers a rich medieval history and impressive architecture. Additionally, San Gimignano is noted for its unique medieval tower houses and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Less Touristy Options

Some users suggest exploring less crowded towns like Lucca for a more authentic experience. Lucca offers charming streets and is surrounded by typical Tuscan countryside, providing a mix of cultural and natural attractions.

Scenic and Quiet Spots

For travelers seeking tranquility, the Val d'Orcia area is recommended. Towns like Radicofani are highlighted for bird watching and peaceful hikes, offering visitors a chance to enjoy Tuscany's iconic landscapes without the crowds.

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Beach Recommendations

According to forum posts, some travelers have recommended the beaches between Cecina and Piombino as family-friendly destinations. The beaches in Uccellina Park, noted for requiring a parking fee, and Castiglione della Pescaia were specifically mentioned as charming seaside towns suitable for families with young children.

Additional Beach Suggestions

Travelers have also highlighted the area of Capalbio, known for its stunning beaches close to a lovely medieval town, as a good option for families. This suggests that Tuscany has several beach areas that cater well to family needs, offering both scenic beauty and practical amenities.

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Booking in Advance

According to forum posts, it's advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. This ensures availability and often secures a better rate than last-minute bookings at the airport.

Car Size and Insurance

Travelers have recommended choosing a car size that can comfortably accommodate all passengers and luggage. For a family of four with four bags, a midsize car is suggested. Additionally, opting for full insurance coverage with zero deductible is advised to avoid potential high costs from damages.

Transmission and Driving Comfort

Some travelers said that while manual transmission cars are cheaper, those unfamiliar with driving them in hilly or mountainous areas like Tuscany should consider renting an automatic for ease and safety.

Local Driving Laws and Conditions

Travelers have called out the importance of being aware of local driving conditions and regulations, such as ZTL zones (limited traffic zones) which can lead to fines if entered unauthorized. It's also recommended to be prepared for narrow and winding roads typical in the region.

Pick-up and Drop-off Locations

Forum users suggest picking up and dropping off the rental car at major airports like Florence or Pisa for convenience. This is particularly useful as these locations are well-connected and can ease the start and end of your travel in Tuscany.

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Unique Vineyard Stays

Some travelers have recommended staying at vineyards like Castello di Fonterutoli, Castello di Volpaia, and Castello di Ama for unique accommodations. These places offer wine tours, restaurants, and sometimes spa services, providing a blend of luxury and rustic charm.

Rustic and Scenic Options

For a more rustic feel, travelers mentioned Podere Campriano and Fattoria del Colle, which are praised for their beautiful locations and authentic agriturismo experiences. These spots often feature excellent hospitality and are close to local towns, offering a genuine Tuscan experience.

Wedding and Event-Focused Venues

For those planning events such as weddings, Terre di Nano and Fattoria Il Piano winery have been highlighted as beautiful venues with accommodation facilities. These properties offer stunning views and can cater to larger groups, making them ideal for special occasions.

Agriturismo Recommendations

In the agriturismo category, Diacceroni Agriturismo Biologico and Guardastelle are noted for their comfortable accommodations and proximity to local attractions. These properties provide a perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside and enjoying local food and wine.

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Train and Bus Accessibility

According to forum posts, while many smaller villages in Tuscany do not have direct train service, larger towns like Florence, Siena, and Arezzo are accessible by train. For reaching smaller towns, buses are available but may have infrequent schedules.

Specific Routes and Suggestions

Some travelers mentioned using the bus to travel from Lucca to Barga and from Florence to various destinations within Tuscany. For instance, Siena can be reached directly by bus from Florence, and there's also a bus service that takes you from the train station in Siena into the city center.

Alternative Transportation Options

For areas not serviced by trains or where bus schedules are sparse, hiring a private driver or using taxis for shorter connections between towns, such as from Siena to nearby villages, has been suggested by travelers. This can be particularly useful for visiting more remote locations or when carrying luggage.

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Day Trip Recommendations from Florence

Some travelers recommend taking organized day trips from Florence to explore Tuscany. Popular tour companies mentioned include Walkabout Tours, MyTour, and Ciao Florence, all of which have been reviewed on the TripAdvisor forums.

Specific Day Tour Suggestions

For scenic trips featuring pretty villages, a day trip tour that includes Montalcino, Orcia Valley, Pienza, and Montepulciano, with wine and cheese tasting, has been suggested by forum users. This tour is praised for its convenience and the inclusion of beautiful Tuscan locations.

Self-Driving Day Trips

Travelers who prefer self-driving suggest exploring the Chianti region, with Greve being an easy drive. Further trips down to Montalcino and Montepulciano are also feasible and provide a rich experience of Tuscany's countryside and culinary delights.

Multi-Location Day Tours

For those looking to cover multiple key locations in a single day, one user recommended a tour company that manages to include visits to San Gimignano, Lucca, and Siena all in one day, which could be ideal for those with limited time but a desire to see as much as possible.

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Popular Choices

According to forum posts, Verrazzano Winery is a favored choice among travelers for its comprehensive tour and lunch options. Antinori is also recommended for its stunning views and delightful wine and food pairings.

Historic Significance

Travelers have called out Castello di Brolio as a noteworthy visit, where the castle's rich history complements the wine tasting experience. This winery's setting and the historical depth add a unique aspect to wine tours in the Chianti region.

Additional Recommendations

Other users suggested exploring Ricasoli, which is known for its excellent food at the on-site osteria and beautiful surroundings. This winery offers a pleasant ambiance that enhances the wine tasting experience.

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Venue Recommendations

According to forum posts, popular wedding venues in Tuscany include Terre di Nano, known for its stunning views and good management, and Castello di Gargonza, appreciated for its beautiful property and accessible location. Fattoria Il Piano winery near San Gimignano is also recommended for its perfect setting for weddings.

Venue Challenges

Some travelers have noted challenges with finding venues that offer comprehensive services like catering, decoration, and accommodation in one package. For instance, Borgo Stomennano was liked but found to be expensive. Additionally, logistical issues such as transporting guests to ceremony locations when not all guests have cars were mentioned.

Alternative Options

For those seeking a more budget-friendly or intimate setting, smaller farmhouses or villas like La Fonte near Pienza, which offers a pool and an on-site restaurant, have been suggested. These venues can provide a more personalized and rustic experience.

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