Tuscany, Italy - the perfect combination of countryside and art

Tuscany is one of Italy's most charming regions, known for its rolling hills, ancient vineyards, medieval towns and rich artistic heritage. The following is an 8-day, 7-night guide to Tuscany, covering classic experiences such as rural scenery, medieval towns, vineyard dinners, and hotel and dining recommendations.

Tour Overview
Number of days: 8 days/7 nights
Budget: US $5999 (double)
Best travel time: April to October (pleasant weather and the best vineyard views)

Transportation: Self-driving (renting a car is recommended for exploring villages and towns)

Inclusive Of

Hotels: 7 nights accommodation (double occupancy) in a country manor house and city hotel.
Meals: Daily breakfast, some lunch and dinner.
Transportation: Car rental fee (including insurance).
Activities: winery tasting, town tours, etc.

Itinerary
Day 1:

Arrival in Florence
Activities: Arrive in Florence, check in to hotel, adjust to jet lag.

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
Value for money: Hotel Brunelleschi
Dining: Enjoy dinner at a central Florence restaurant and try Tuscan specialties such as Bistecca alla Fiorentina.
Night Tour: Stroll along the Arno River and admire the night view of the Ponte Vecchio.

Day 2:

Uffizi Gallery: See Renaissance masterpieces such as Botticelli's The Birth of Venus.
Duomo: Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Florence.
Piazzale Michelangelo: enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sunset.
Meals: Have lunch at a small restaurant in the city center and try local pasta and red wine for dinner.

Day 3:

Siena: Explore the medieval town and visit the Duomo di Siena Cathedral and Piazza del Campo.
Chianti Wine Region: Visit vineyards and wineries along the way and taste Chianti red wine.
Accommodation: Castello di Casole.
Dining: Dinner at the winery, paired with local wines and Tuscan specialties.

Day 4:

San Gimignano: A medieval tower town known as the "Manhattan of the Middle Ages".
Pastoral scenery: Drive through the hills of Tuscany and admire the scenery of vineyards and olive groves.
Accommodation: Continue to stay at a country estate hotel in the Chianti region.
Dining: Enjoy dinner at a rustic restaurant and try handmade pasta and local cheeses.

Day 5:

Pienza: An ideal town during the Renaissance, famous for its cheese and beautiful scenery.
Val d'Orcia: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can photograph the classic Tuscan countryside.
Accommodation: Agriturismo Baccoleno.
Dining: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Pienza and try the Pecorino cheese.

Day 6:

Montepulciano: a town famous for its noble red wine (Vino Nobile).
Wine tasting: Visit a local winery and taste Montepulciano red wine.
Accommodation: Countryside hotel near Montepulciano.
Dining: Dinner at the winery, with wine pairing and Tuscan grilled meats.

Day 7:

Lucca: Bike around the ancient city walls and explore the medieval streets.
Pisa: Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Piazza dei Miracoli.
Accommodation: Return to Florence and check in to a hotel in the city.
Meals: Farewell dinner at a restaurant in Florence.

Day 8:

Leaving Florence
Activities: Depending on the flight time, you can freely move around Florence, buy souvenirs or visit unfinished attractions.
Airport transfer: Transfer to Florence Airport, ending your Tuscany trip.

Travel Tips

Note for self-driving: The roads in Tuscany’s countryside are narrow, so experienced drivers are advised to rent a car.
Dressing Tips: Tuscany is hot in the summer, so it is recommended to bring light clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
Book in advance: Popular attractions and restaurants require advance reservations, especially winery tastings.
Language: Although English is widely used in tourist areas, learning a few words of Italian will make your trip smoother.
Tuscany is a poetic place. Whether it is the pastoral scenery, medieval towns or delicious food and wine, you will feel the unique charm of Italy. I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Tuscany!