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Tuscany on a Budget: Insider Secrets to Affordable and Authentic Experiences

tuscany travel on a budget

This article has been written,  reviewed, and fact-checked  by Rick and I.  We live in Italy  and travel throughout the country to help you make the best choices for your trip. We wrote this piece  to help you have the best trip possible on your next trip to Italy.  Portions of this article have been written using assistive AI tools to help with tasks like research, spell-checking, grammar, and translation.

With good reason, Tuscany is one of the most visited areas in Italy. Visitors may enjoy some of the best art, architecture, and cuisine in the globe, in addition to the stunning rolling hills and Cyprus trees that dot the landscape. However, having such an experience when traveling doesn’t have to be pricey! For that reason, we’ve put together our budget-friendly Tuscany travel guide.

We go through every aspect tourists should consider when visiting Tuscany on a tight budget, from lodging to transportation and, of course, meals. Let’s discuss how to tour Tuscany on a budget.

Where To Stay In Tuscany That Won’t Break The Bank

Farm stay in Siena Tuscany

The majority of your spending in Tuscany will probably go toward lodging. Tuscany is a large region with several must-see cities and attractions, but Florence is the most prominent (and well-liked) of these.

So what is our top suggestion for an inexpensive place to stay in Tuscany?

Do not stay in Florence !

We’re not saying to avoid Florence! You should at least visit the city because it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world.

However, if you decide to base yourself on the most popular tourist destination in the area, your expenses will unnecessarily and quickly increase!

There are plenty of additional possibilities for lodging in Tuscany, from Lucca to Pisa to less famous but no less stunning cities like Arezzo (which has excellent train connections).

So what’s the point?

There are a ton of places to stay in Tuscany other than Florence that will allow you to stretch your budget further and pay for more significant activities, like wine tastings.

You’ll need to do some advance planning for day trips and excursions, as is typical with budget travel. But the excellent train connections throughout Tuscany won’t be too difficult!

Not sure where to begin looking for lodging? See our article on where to stay in Tuscany for some great possibilities.

Experience Cheap Things to Do in Tuscany

There are various tours in Florence, Siena , Pisa, and other cities (and wineries). If you’re on a tight budget, consider taking a self-guided tour instead!

And, in case you’re wondering, here’s the scoop about Italy’s drinking age !

There are some towns, particularly the less visited ones, where taking a tour makes sense and is fun. However, we also believe that seeing Tuscany alone is simple and worthwhile.

Take a Guided Walking Tour in Lucca

tuscany travel on a budget

This 2-hour guided tour is the finest way to experience the delights of Lucca’s old town, whether traveling alone, with friends, or with family. See intricate Roman cathedrals, the city walls, and other significant landmarks.

You will discover Lucca and its primary landmarks after meeting your guide at the tourist information office in the city’s heart. Spend two hours exploring the downtown area with your qualified, certified guide.

The beautiful ancient city of Lucca

Visit the Church of San Michele, a magnificently intricate Roman Catholic basilica that dates back to 795, among other places. Observe the church’s 4-meter-tall statue of the Archangel Michael, who serves as its patron. View the church’s less complicated but impressive interior architecture by entering it for free. You’ll also stroll along the city’s 16th-century walls, providing a nice ramble among the trees on the outskirts of the old town.

The journey concludes in Lucca Cathedral, a magnificent Roman Catholic building with a stunning façade. Pay the nominal entrance charge to continue the trip with your guide; they will show you the inside and continue to impart their knowledge. You can also relax by drinking at a café or exploring the city on a budget.

Discover Florence On A Self-Guided Audio Tour

florence italy

An excellent digital self-guided tour will let you learn about over 80 areas of interest in Florence. Combine high-quality audio narration with public transportation and walking tours. As you tour this historic city, make the most of your time and save money.

With a helpful and educational digital tour, you can explore Florence’s grandeur, culture, chic shopping districts, and quirky, magnificent hidden jewels. This cutting-edge, self-guided sightseeing app combines public transportation and walking tours with high-quality audio narration available in 6 languages, rich visuals, practical text, and offline navigable mapping to turn your smartphone into a wise assistant and dependable travel companion.

Florence Fontana del Porcellino

You can explore the city at your leisure and learn more than any guide could possibly share with you. Thanks to local storytellers, you may explore more than 80 locations of interest in the city and find the best photo opportunities and free Wi-Fi hotspots.

Chianti Wine Tasting Trip

wine tasting in Tuscany

On this guided wine tour, which departs from Florence in a van, you can fully immerse yourself in the famed wine-making culture of Italy . As you depart the city, take in the stunning scenery and travel through the Tuscan countryside. With your tour leader, you can visit two local wineries, partake in wine tastings in each, and learn from locals about the wine-making process.

Winery in Montalcino Tuscany

Visit one of the area’s historic vineyards after arriving in the picturesque village of Radda in the Chianti region. Enjoy a tasting of three local wines before having the chance to buy them. Spend some time at leisure wandering the town’s winding streets.

Hills of Chianti, Tuscany

Head in the direction of a vintage farm and vineyard. Discover how wine is made, from the fruit to the glass. Then take part in another taste of three Chianti wines and regional goods. Lastly, sit back and unwind as you return to Florence.

An Affordable Day Tour In Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti

Pisa Piazza dei Miracoli

For those looking to indulge their senses in the sights and flavors of Tuscany on a budget, we recommend this ideal day tour that visits Pisa, San Gimignano, and Chianti .

An excursion to Pisa will be your first stop in the morning. Be sure to admire the cathedral, the baptistery, the historic cemetery, and the renowned Leaning Tower. Then, proceed to a traditional winery in the San Gimignano-area Chianti Hills.

Discover the medieval San Gimignano, sometimes known as “Medieval Manhattan,” after lunch. Here, you may wander through the labyrinth of cobblestone streets, little squares, and numerous local craft shops.

Hills of San Giminiano Tuscany

In Siena , your knowledgeable guide will take you to the most significant squares, from Piazza del Campo to the cathedral, while traveling through the most picturesque countryside that defines this city. Afterward, enjoy a panoramic view of the Chianti region.

After the guided tour, enjoy a cup of coffee or a panforte (a famous cake in the area) and shopping. A stunning sunset will be the backdrop of your trip back to Florence.

How to Travel in Tuscany, Italy, on a Budget

Is anyone up for some public transportation?

Carrying your baggage on buses, trains, trams, subways, you name it, says it all: “I’m a budget traveler!” And let’s face it, it gets pretty exhausting, and sometimes you’d give anything for an Uber, cab, or private driver. How great would that be?

But those on a tight budget should take advantage of the convenient public transportation available in Tuscany (and throughout Italy)!

You can travel there for a reasonable price. That is unless you take the bus; they are not always on time, as we will discuss!

Buses in Tuscany

tuscany travel on a budget

Bus travel is by far the least expensive method to explore Tuscany. For instance, a bus from Siena to Florence will only cost you about 8 euros and take about one hour and a half. Italian buses, meanwhile, are only sometimes dependable.

Our instance?

A bus once arrived more than 30 minutes late. The “organization” apparently gave the driver incorrect information, putting him in the wrong city.

Our lesson is never blindly to trust Italian buses, regardless of what transpired. Our mishap is one of many we’ve heard of with an Italian bus.

However, private operators like FlixBus are more dependable, especially when traveling to more well-known destinations like Florence, Siena, Pisa, etc.

Trains in Tuscany

In Tuscany, the train is perhaps equally as inexpensive as the bus, and we favor this means of transportation.

You can go from Siena to Florence by rail for around 10 euros in one and a half hours. When you travel to Tuscany, trains might be much more dependable.

The trick with trains in Tuscany is to look at tickets two to three months ahead of your trip to see if you can acquire a discounted ticket for your journey, especially if you want to go a longer distance. Long-distance travel can have some relatively high prices!

parked vehicles

Look into car rental deals if you have a more adventurous attitude and a more flexible budget. In Palermo, we spent $120 a day for car rental. The only costly component was the gas, but as long as you purchase a car that is economical with its use of fuel, you should be able to keep prices low. Although we believe the Sicily deal to be too good to be true, we are positive you can get a very inexpensive rental in Tuscany!

Renting a Car in Italy: Pro Tip

Be sure to take a video of the entire car, inside and out, and don’t forget the spare tire. On a recent trip to Palermo, we rented a car from Europcar in Taranto with the intention of dropping it off in Bari. Unfortunately, the AC didn’t work. The attendant (in Taranto) apologized profusely and quickly switched out the car for another one – an upgraded one to boot!

The car was fine, and fast-forward two days, we dropped it off in Bari. Unfortunately, the attendant in Bari didn’t like what we brought back. First, we were accused of not bringing back the spare tire (it was missing), and second, according to the attendant, the car was returned dirty.

Well, for sure, we didn’t steal or sell the spare tire. And second, the car was already dirty. We tried to explain the situation to the attendant – the car was given to us like this (on a last-minute notice), but she kept pointing to the contract.

This is where Rick became a little grumpy at the situation, and we left the Europcar Bari. On our way back to the hotel, I called Europcar Taranto to explain the situation, and they apologised profusely, and promised to get in touch with the Bari location and sort it out. And they did. Rick is waiting for an apology from Bari – in the meantime, he gave them a 1-star review.

On Foot or By Bike

woman riding white rigid bike

In Tuscany, you can walk from town to town. Many towns have created walking paths that are easy to access and explore.

If you’re going for efficiency, this isn’t the fastest way to get around. Remember that walking takes longer than other forms of transportation and has limitations—you have to be careful not to overdo it or carry too much weight on your back.

City and Attraction Passes

aerial photo of a city

When you have little time to spend in a city yet have a lot to see, city passes (or attraction passes) are smart choices. You could check into these all-inclusive passes that will save you a lot of money, especially in Tuscan cities like Siena or Florence.

To find out if it’s perfect for you, check out Siena’s pass and Florence’s pass ( FirenzeCard )!

Avoid purchasing a pass if you don’t plan to visit all the museums and other expensive sites.

Even lesser-known Tuscan treasures like San Gimignano have a pass. Start at the Torre Grossa (Grossa Tower), where you can get a pass. The Duomo, included in the pass, is where we started, but they weren’t selling the pass there.

Although that was frustrating, we suggest constantly being on the lookout for a city/attraction pass in whatever place you visit in Tuscany! It will be better for your budget!

Avoid Eating Out On The Main Plaza In Tuscany

This rule applies to Tuscany, as in every other place in Italy. If you’re on a tight budget, avoid eating near the main tourist areas!

In Tuscan towns, the main piazza is the most desirable location for a quick bite but also the most expensive.

We can appreciate that Siena’s Piazza del Campo is beautiful and that dining there sounds fantastic. However, there are hidden gems all across town and away from the tourist spots, so why pay twice as much for food? Both your wallet and your taste senses will appreciate it!

We chose to get some espresso at one of the eateries on Piazza del Campo – at the bar! Each espresso costs 1.50 euro. But, you can easily find an espresso somewhere for less.

You won’t regret trying restaurants off the central plaza, especially in the more famous cities.

Enjoy Free Activities in Tuscany

What about free activities, considering how many destinations are dispersed throughout the area? In Italy, there are always churches everywhere you look. We always enjoyed them, but free activities are always available if admiring these buildings’ exquisite architecture or artwork isn’t your style.

You can always find a fun thing to do in Tuscany on a budget, whether it’s just strolling down side streets, relaxing in a park, snapping pictures, locating scenic locations, or simply enjoying these historic villages.

When it comes to Italy, Tuscany is the place to be. With its lush landscape, delicious food and wine, and quaint villages, it’s hard to imagine an Italian vacation in this beloved region without a stop. But for travel budget tourists who are still looking for a luxury experience, Tuscany can seem out of reach.

However, with just a little clever pre-planning, travelers in any budget range can discover this beautiful region on a shoestring—without sacrificing any indulgences that make Tuscany such an irresistible destination!

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Travel Budget for Tuscany Visit Tuscany on a Budget or Travel in Style

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  • How much does it cost to travel to Tuscany? (Average Daily Cost)
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Is Tuscany expensive to visit?

  • How much do I need for a trip to Tuscany?
  • Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
  • Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Tuscany?

You should plan to spend around $164 (€152) per day on your vacation in Tuscany. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $40 (€37) on meals
  • $19 (€18) on local transportation
  • $190 (€175) on hotels

A one week trip to Tuscany for two people costs, on average, $2,298 (€2,124) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 164 € 152
  • One Week Per person $ 1,149 € 1,062
  • 2 Weeks Per person $ 2,298 € 2,124
  • One Month Per person $ 4,925 € 4,551
  • One Week For a couple $ 2,298 € 2,124
  • 2 Weeks For a couple $ 4,596 € 4,247
  • One Month For a couple $ 9,849 € 9,102

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Tuscany cost?

A one week trip to Tuscany usually costs around $1,149 (€1,062) for one person and $2,298 (€2,124) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Tuscany on average costs around $2,298 (€2,124) for one person and $4,596 (€4,247) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Tuscany will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Tuscany on average costs around $4,925 (€4,551) for one person and $9,849 (€9,102) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Tuscany has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in Tuscany are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Tuscany is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to many other destinations.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Tuscany Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Tuscany?

The average Tuscany trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Tuscany travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Tuscany

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Tuscany is $95 (€88). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Tuscany is $190 (€175). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 95 € 88
  • Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 190 € 175

Hotel Prices in Tuscany

Looking for a hotel in Tuscany? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Kayak

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Transportation Budget in Tuscany

The cost of a taxi ride in Tuscany is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $19 (€18) per person, per day, on local transportation in Tuscany.

  • Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 19 € 18

Recommended Services

  • Livorno Private Arrival Transfer: Cruise Port to Central Florence Viator $ 176
  • Livorno Private Departure Transfer: Central Florence to Cruise Port Viator $ 163

Flights to Tuscany

Rental cars in tuscany, food budget in tuscany.

While meal prices in Tuscany can vary, the average cost of food in Tuscany is $40 (€37) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Tuscany should cost around $16 (€15) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Tuscany is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

  • Food 2 Meals for one day $ 40 € 37

Recommended

  • Streaty - Street Food Tour of Florence Viator $ 83
  • The Cooking Lab - Authentic Food Experience Viator $ 116

Entertainment Budget in Tuscany

Entertainment and activities in Tuscany typically cost an average of $27 (€25) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 27 € 25

Recommended Activities

  • DAVID and Accademia Gallery Private Tour in Florence Viator $ 98
  • UFFIZI Private Tour in Florence Italy Viator $ 142

Tips and Handouts Budget in Tuscany

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Tuscany is $5.55 (€5.13) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Tuscany is 5% - 15% .

  • Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 5.55 € 5.13

Alcohol Budget in Tuscany

The average person spends about $20 (€18) on alcoholic beverages in Tuscany per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 20 € 18
  • Brunello Wine Tour and Val D'Orcia Landscape Viator $ 243
  • Aperitif with the Best View in Florence with Wine Tasting Viator $ 65

Water Budget in Tuscany

On average, people spend $7.12 (€6.58) on bottled water in Tuscany per day. The public water in Tuscany is considered safe to drink.

  • Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 7.12 € 6.58

Tuscany On a Budget

Tuscany

Food and Dining

Transportation.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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How to visit Tuscany cheaply

Tuscany can be expensive, there’s no doubt about that. But here’s a sure fire way to do it cheaply AND see more of the local culture!

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: October 4, 2023

Cheap Tuscany, Italy

It’s no surprise that one of the most popular regions of Italy is also one of the most expensive. Between accommodation, food and sites, you can really burn through the euros on a trip to Tuscany.

But the good news is that it doesn’t have to be that way – it is possible to travel Tuscany on the cheap.

By accident, I discovered a way to keep the cost of visiting Tuscany right down. And the bonus? Well, it might actually be better suited to your style of travel as well.

Introducing… dramatic drumroll… the hostel in the countryside!

Cheap Tuscany accommodation

In the quiet little village of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa, the hostel is one of the largest buildings. That’s not to say it’s large, more that everything else is appropriately proportioned for a village.

It’s called the ‘Ostello del Chianti’ and a bed in a dorm will cost only 16 euros. There’s a large common area to relax and mingle in, a good dining room which is usually quite quiet in the evenings, and a garden with a bbq.

There are plenty of rooms so it’s ideal for larger groups or for those travelling solo.

The advantage of staying in the hostel for sightseeing in Tuscany is that the village is centrally located. It’s only a short bus ride to Florence or Siena, or to some of the smaller and more charming towns like San Gimignano and Volterra.

To Florence, for example, the trip is slightly less than an hour and costs 3.30 euros.

It means it’s possible to base yourself in one place for a week and take day trips to various locations to get a broad sense of the area. If you had a car, it would be even easier. Even with a bike there are a number of places you can explore.

Cheap Tuscany food

You’ll also keep your food costs down. Firstly, breakfast is provided, unlike with many of the hotels in the larger cities of Tuscany. If you’re back in Tavarnelle Val di Pesa by the evening there are some great pizzerias to choose from for dinner and, guess what, they’re cheap.

An average pizza will set you back about 4 or 5 euros and half a litre of wine costs about 4 euro. That’s more than half the cost you’ll find at the basic restaurants in Florence.

At the bar in the main street of the town, you can get a cheap drink and even do some wine tasting. The owner speaks good English and gave us a large variety of local specialties to try – all for only 2.50 euros per (large!) glass.

There are a number of other wineries in the area that you can walk to and will do a wine tasting during the day, if you’re interested in that. There are also some beautiful hikes and historic villages all within walking or cycling distance.

It’s a nice way to see some of the Tuscan countryside and scenic views, away from the hordes of tourists in other parts of the region.

If you want to spend day after day looking at the museums and galleries of Florence, this might not be the best option.

But if you want to get a sense of Tuscany, see some smaller villages as well as the big cities, eat some genuine local food and drink the delicious Tuscan wine, AND do it all on a tight budget… then this is a great option to consider!

31 thoughts on “How to visit Tuscany cheaply”

Ah, the big pizza from the big mamma with the big bottle of wine!

Oh yeah, the big mamma. It’s just lucky her pizza was tasty and her wine was cheap… she didn’t have much else going on for her…

My dream is to go to Tuscany to the small villages on a small budget

I hope your dream comes true oneday

Hey this is great to know about! We did a post on Tuscany on a shoestring last year when we were there, too. In general, Tuscany can be really cheap, especially because food and wine are actually economical, but it’s the accommodation that can run up costs. Great that this hostel is so near to San Gimignano and Volterra – those were my two absolute favorite little towns!

The food isn’t exorbitant but you’re definitely going to be paying tourist prices at most places in the big cities. That’s why getting out to the smaller areas can be really economical.

Great advice. Would love to check it out someday.

Please let me know if you do!

Beautiful pictures! I haven’t been to Tuscany in such a long time..

Well now you’ve got a good reason!!

Nice shots! I’m all about cheap travel 🙂

It’s good to know you don’t have to stay in Asia for your whole life then 🙂

Great tip on the wine tastings…. at least for a wino like me 🙂

You wouldn’t regret it. Gotta love a good chianti!

Great tips, loving the photos looks like a great place to visit

Thanks. It’s definitely worth looking into, if you’re interested in that area.

I found Tuscany to be surprisingly cheap. Dining out at restaurants can be expensive but the supermarkets are fabulous. You can buy a great bottle of Sicilian wine for less than 2 Euros. I found a great studio with a with a kitchenette on booking.com and used it as a base to explore Cinque Terre and Tuscany for just 50Euros/night.

Good advice. For 50 euro a night you can definitely find some nice (but small and simple) places to stay. And the supermarkets are really cheap. it’s the restaurants that will eat away your cash (pun intended).

Hi Liz- I’m taking my wife on holidays. Wondering what the name of the studio you stayed at is and any other suggestions for places to stay in Tuscany?

Liz, where did you stay?

Tuscany is really beautiful destinations in the world. Great ideas to go for Tuscany.

Hi, Just superb images and from that i will give visit for sure..and as you quoted “it might actually be better suited to your style of travel as well.” and my opinion to this is DEFINITELY “BETTER SUITED” 🙂

Thanks, Eddie. It is a great way for many people to see the region, I think.

Tuscany is one of the beautiful place of the World. It will be so memorable to spend some time at this place. All the accommodation and also the affordable rate is so good. Thanks for sharing this……………………….

Curious as to the name of the pizzeria and the town it is in. We’re planning to “pizza eat” our way through Tuscany next year and this looks like exactly our kind of place!

My twin sister and I are planning a trip to Tuscany just after our 60th birthday in 2020. How can I get more information on this hostel?

If you don’t spend time in Florence proper, you are missing some of the greatest art in the world.

Great info mate.

Are there any drivers that can take you around tuscanny on a reasonable fee?

are there any tours that travel out of the united states to these destination tours?

What airport would I fly into to get to the hostel? Is there a bus from the airport to the hostel? Do I need a car? What are car rentals, bike rentals? Do I need a reservation at the hostel?

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Tuscany Road Trip: The Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary

Tuscany Road Trip: The Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary

Tuscany: birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and home to beautiful rolling hills, hidden vineyards, ancient hilltop villages, and mouthwatering food. Spend days of an Italy itinerary winding your way through the Tuscan countryside, strolling the cobbled streets with a gelato in hand, and stocking up on local wine and pecorino cheese. Discover all the hidden gems this stunning corner of Italy offers with our ultimate 5-day Tuscany road trip itinerary.

A Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary

The easiest way to see this incredible region is by renting a car . This gives you total freedom to change your trip as you go. Nothing beats a road trip through Tuscany with the windows down and the sun on your face, discovering new and unexpected delights around every corner. Here’s how to spend five days on a Tuscany road trip.

tuscany road trip siena

Tip: If you have more time, discover the underrated neighboring region of Umbria (just as impressive but with fewer crowds!).

We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

road trip tuscany landscape

Day 1 – Florence or Pisa

It’s the first day of your 5-day Tuscany itinerary; welcome to Italy ! You’ve likely begun your trip in the beautiful cities of Florence or Pisa , so spend at least a day exploring before heading off to Siena . 

Tuscany road trip florence italy

You can pack a lot into one day in this relatively small but beautiful city, famed for its incredible architecture, delicious food and wine, and fascinating art culture. 

You can’t visit Florence on your Tuscany road trip without seeing the iconic Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, one of the world’s biggest cathedrals, with a stunning white, pink, and green marble exterior.

Tuscany road trip florence Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore

From here, head to the Arno River to cross Florence’s oldest bridge, the Ponte Vecchio. This bridge is famous for being lined with jewelry shops, so it’s a shopper’s heaven! If you have time, allocate a few hours to also explore the quieter neighborhoods on the other side.

Read: Best Things to do in Florence

Tuscany road trip florence Ponte Vecchio

Now it’s time for food! You can spend days discovering all the city’s foodie spots but start with the famous panini from All’Antico Vinaio. Afterward, grab a creamy gelato from Gelateria La Carraia and end your day with a delicious plate of fresh pasta at Trattoria San Pierino.

Here are all your hotel options in Florence

italian restaurant florence

Where to Stay in Florence

Florence in Tuscany has plenty of accommodation options depending on your budget and style. We’d recommend the Santa Croce neighborhood, as it’s close to the center and has a lively cafe and bar culture. 

Hotels in Florence 😴

Velona's Jungle Luxury Suites

Pisa is another small but mighty city that makes for a relaxed day of wandering. Don’t miss the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa for your iconic photo as a memory of your road trip through Tuscany. However, don’t miss out on exploring the other beautiful buildings in the same square.

Tuscany road trip pisa italy

For example, the Camposanto, the Baptisterium, and the intricately designed Romanesque Cathedral. The pedestrianized space is a lovely spot to rest your feet for a while. Plus, it’s the perfect spot to sunbathe on the grass while you take in the stunning architecture. 

Here are all your hotel options in Pisa

pisa Piazza dei Miracoli

Next, head to the ancient street Borgo Stretto for the best shopping in Pisa! This beautiful street is lined with beautiful colored townhouses, making for a picture-perfect shopping experience. From here, get lost amongst tiny alleyways and pretty squares as you search for a delicious spot for lunch or dinner.

Read: Best things to do in Pisa!

best restaurants pisa italy

Where to Stay in Pisa

If you don’t have much time, we recommend staying in the Santa Maria area, which is very central. However, Pisa is small enough that most places are within a reasonable walking distance. Choose accommodation in the San Giusto neighborhood if you’re on a budget.

Hotels in Pisa 😴

Rinascimento Bed & Breakfast

Day 2 – Siena , Tuscany

This charming and atmospheric city, with its steep, winding, cobbled streets and dusty-colored houses, is a must-see on your Tuscany road trip!

Read: Top things to do in Siena, Italy!

siena streets tuscany

Start your day in the Piazza del Campo, a lovely shell-shaped square, before a short walk to the Duomo di Siena. This stunning cathedral was uniquely built using black and white striped marble and has beautiful frescoes inside.

Tuscany Road Trip: The Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary

From here, get lost in the winding streets, explore the grand Palazzo Pubblico, and discover beautiful hidden corners. We recommend finishing off the day with a delicious dinner at Osteria Permalicoa.

Here are all your hotel options in Siena

things to do tuscany siena

The Elsa Trail : Highlight of your Tuscany road trip

If you have more time on your Tuscany itinerary, escape the bustle of Siena by taking a hike along the peaceful Elsa Trail. Conveniently, it’s located just a 30-minute drive from the city. The trail leads to the Diborrato Waterfall, where you can cool off in the bright blue water surrounded by greenery.

Read: Exploring the Elsa Trail and Diborrato Waterfall in Tuscany

Elsa Trail waterfall tuscany italy

San Gimignano , Tuscany

You could also combine the Elsa Trail with a trip to nearby San Gimignano , a small medieval village known as the ‘Manhattan of the Middle Ages’ for its unusually tall towers. Spend an afternoon exploring the historic town with its pretty streets and squares. Additionally, don’t miss out on trying ‘The World’s Best Gelato’ at Gelateria Dondoli — a must-do on your Tuscany road trip!

Read: San Gimignano – the Manhattan of the Middle Ages

san gimignano italy things to do

How to get from Florence / Pisa to Siena

It is two hours from Pisa and one hour from Florence to reach Siena by car. However, we recommend selecting the option ‘avoid highways’ on Google Maps, which will direct you along the longer, windier routes. Taking these smaller roads allows you to see all the incredible natural beauty of Tuscany. 

There are fairly frequent trains and buses from both cities if you don’t have a car on your Tuscany itinerary.

Book your train tickets in advance

hills Tuscany italy road trip

Where to Stay in Siena

If you’re only staying for one night in Siena, stick to the hotels in the city center (around the Torre del Mangia), so you are close to all the historic landmarks, bars, and restaurants. Alternatively, opt for accommodation within easy driving distance of the city.

Hotels in Siena 😴

Ca' Bianca Tuscany Relais

Day 3 – Pienza or Montepulciano

Both these beautiful hilltop towns are good options to add to your Tuscany itinerary, particularly as they’re only 20 minutes apart. Montepulciano is slightly bigger and offers more options in terms of places to eat and wine tours. Alternatively, for a more relaxed destination, choose the more peaceful Renaissance town of Pienza.

pienza italy town tuscany

Pienza : Must-see on a Tuscany road trip

Unusually, this small village perched on a hill is famed for its pecorino cheese! However, it’s more importantly known for its stunning Renaissance architecture , which has led to its UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Located in the Val d’Orcia, the hilltop village has spectacular views of the rolling Tuscan hills surrounding it. It is also a lovely place to shop for souvenirs like cured meats, pecorino cheese, and local artwork.

Pienza, Italy: The beautiful hilltop town of Tuscany

tuscany travel on a budget

Spend an afternoon wandering Pienza’s tiny streets and alleyways, exploring piazzas and palazzos, and admiring the views from the ancient city walls. 

Tip: If you’re doing your Tuscany road trip in September, don’t miss out on the Fiera del Cacio. This annual festival is dedicated solely to pecorino, complete with a cheese rolling competition and lots of tasting opportunities!

Here are all your hotel options in Pienza

pienza italy hills tuscany

Montepulciano

Known for its delicious wine, this medieval hilltop village just 20 minutes from Pienza is full of charm and history; it’s a great place to slow down on your road trip and enjoy all the delights that Tuscany has to offer. 

Here are all your hotel options in Montepulciano

things to do Montepulciano italy

Start in the Piazza Grande and climb to the top of the clock tower to get panoramic views of the village and surrounding Val d’Orcia. From here, wander through the pretty streets and browse the shops and gelaterias before heading to Veduta Panoramica or Palazzo Comunale for another spectacular viewpoint.

Montepulciano italy things to do

If you’ve got time on your 5-day Tuscany itinerary, spend the afternoon sipping wine on an underground cellar tour or visit a nearby vineyard. Alternatively, take a cooking class to learn something new and fill your belly with delicious Tuscan cuisine. There are plenty of options in Montepulciano!

Read: Best things to do in Montepulciano, Italy

Montepulciano restaurants

How to get from Siena to Pienza / Montepulciano

From Siena to Pienza/Montepulciano is roughly an hour of driving, depending on your route. However, we recommend staying off the highway as much as possible to see some beautiful scenery. There are some fantastic wineries in this area, so if you’re lucky enough not to be the designated driver, take the opportunity to taste some local wines in a stunning vineyard setting. 

Tip: If you are looking to buy wine to take home with you, it is much cheaper to buy directly from a winery. They will also be able to give you great recommendations.

See availability for a wine tour in Montepulciano

tuscany italy fiat 500

Where to Stay in Pienza / Montepulciano

Stay in the historic centers of Pienza or Montepulciano to be close to shops, bars, and restaurants. Alternatively, opt for a more rural setting in any of the incredible ‘agriturismo’ properties. These farmhouses normally have pools and beautiful gardens, so enjoy relaxing after your road trip with a glass of wine while you take in beautiful views of the hills of Tuscany.

Hotels in Pienza 😴

Castello di Spedaletto da Laura

Hotels in Montepulciano 😴

Il Tosco

Day 4 – Saturnia and Montemerano

Spend day 4 at the wonderful hot springs of Saturnia before spending the night in one of the most beautiful villages in all of Italy: Montemerano.

Saturnia in Tuscany

Saturnia is an ancient spa town famous all over the world for its beautiful blue hot springs. The springs cascade over several levels into a series of pools, all looking out over the stunning Tuscan countryside. Our B&B was just a 5-minute walk from the baths!

road trip tuscany hotspring

Known by the Italians as Cascate del Mulino, the thermal springs are a great place to soak for a couple of hours in healing volcanic water, which is 37°C (98.6°F) all year round. It is especially lovely at sunrise or sunset when the light is beautiful and there are fewer people. 

Tip: Bring shoes you can wear in the water, as the bottom of the pools can be a bit rough.

Opening Times: The hot springs are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you can get here before 7 AM, you will skip most of the crowds. The best thing about Saturnia Hot Springs is that it is completely free! Find out all you need to know about visiting Saturnia here .

Saturnia Tuscany road trip

Montemerano

After some time enjoying the hot springs, head to the small and charming town of Montemerano for the evening (just 15 minutes from Saturnia). Spend an hour or two exploring one of the most beautiful villages in Italy; stroll along quiet streets lined with ancient stone buildings and balconies filled with pots of flowers before tucking into traditional Tuscan dishes at a local trattoria.

Here are all your hotel options in Montemerano

road trip tuscany Montemerano

How to get from Pienza / Montepulciano to Saturnia

Pienza and Montepulciano are located close to each other, so both have a similar driving time to Saturnia. Pienza to Saturnia is just over an hour and a half. Alternatively, if you’re leaving from Montepulciano, it is just under two hours. 

It is difficult to do these routes by bus, as it requires so many connections. Because of this, if you don’t have your own transport, your quickest option will be taking a taxi.

view montepulciano

Where to Stay in Montemerano on this Tuscany road trip

There are a few cozy inns and apartments in the villages of Saturnia and Montemerano. However, you’ll find a wider variety of accommodation options further out, with big rustic farmhouses, vineyard hotels, and beautiful villas dotting the countryside. 

Hotels in Montemerano 😴

The Nest in Maremma

Day 5 of the Tuscany Road Trip – Finish in Rome via Orvieto

It’s time to head to your final stop on your Tuscany road trip: Rome ! Take your time getting there; we recommend stopping at the beautiful and historic town of Orvieto in the Umbrian hills.

tuscany travel on a budget

Orvieto : Must see on your Tuscany road trip

The ancient hill town Orvieto is packed with beautiful churches and fascinating museums and temples. Plus, you’ll find a variety of cute ceramic shops and a fascinating network of underground tunnels and caves.

Book an e-bike tour of Orvieto, including entrance to the underground city

tuscany travel on a budget

Alternatively, if you want a more relaxing activity, just wander the pretty streets and have a few glasses of Orvieto Classico Wine over a long lunch. In many places in the city, you’ll be able to take in the beautiful hilltop views of the surrounding countryside.

Read: Things to do in Orvieto, Italy

best things to do orvieto italy duomo

When in Rome (!), spend the last part of your Tuscany itinerary visiting a few of the city’s most iconic sights, like the Colosseum or the Pantheon. Don’t forget to make a wish at the famous Trevi fountain!

unesco Vatican City rome italy

Squeeze in a final plate of fresh Roman pasta in the picturesque Trastevere neighborhood before heading to the airport. If you have more time on your Tuscany road trip, we recommend spending 2-3 days here, enjoying all the top things to do in Rome .

Here are all your hotel options in Rome

rome vatican city tuscany road trip italy

How to get from Saturnia to Rome

It is a 3-hour drive from Saturnia to Rome if you go via Orvieto. This route means you can experience a taste of Umbria , the region to the east of Tuscany, which is just as beautiful but with fewer crowds. If you can, spend a few nights here, too! 

If you are traveling by public transport on your Tuscany itinerary, there is a train to Rome from the nearby coastal town of Albinia. The journey takes approximately two hours.

Book your train tickets from Albinia to Rome in advance

things to do umbria italy perugia

Where to Stay in Rome

We recommend staying a few nights in Rome to fully explore this incredible city. Piazza Navona and San Lorenzo are central areas within walking distance of many of the top attractions. However, San Lorenzo is slightly cheaper if you’re traveling on a budget. Trastevere is another great neighborhood by the river, which has a more authentic ‘Roman’ feel and loads of cute shops, restaurants, and bars to explore.

Hotels in Rome 😴

Colosseum Palace Star

How to Visit Tuscany in 5 Days

Both Pisa and Florence have international airports with frequent daily flights available to many destinations worldwide. 

If you are traveling overland, the train is a great option, as the Italian railway connects with many other cities in Europe. The good news is that night train routes are becoming increasingly available, too. 

Check availability for train routes through Italy

An even cheaper alternative is the bus, although this will take a lot longer and take time away from your Tuscany road trip!

winery tuscany

Getting Around Tuscany

The best way to see the region is by renting a car, so you have complete flexibility. A Tuscany road trip means you can stop whenever the mood strikes and visit the smaller villages that are less accessible by public transport.

Travel distances vary, with the longest stretch on our Tuscany itinerary being around three hours. However, we recommend stopping off for pasta and cappuccino breaks as often as possible! You can rent a car in Pisa or Florence and drop it back in Rome to see more of the region.

tuscany travel on a budget

By Public Transport

Another option is taking buses and trains on your Tuscany itinerary, which can work out cheaper. It’s also incredibly convenient when traveling between cities as you don’t need to worry about navigating busy roads and parking. However, you may have to take taxis from bigger towns to the more remote places, which can be expensive.

Book your public transport in advance

tuscany travel on a budget

If you are basing yourself in one city and want to explore the surrounding countryside, the best option is to take day tours. Many tours leave from the bigger cities like Florence, Siena, and Pisa and take you out into the Tuscan countryside to explore the wineries and hilltop towns.

Tuscany road trip colosseum rome

Our Favorite Accommodations in Tuscany

The Tuscany region offers some fantastic accommodation options, whether it’s rustic farmhouses, luxurious country villas, cozy city apartments, or budget hostels. Here are some of our favorites from each destination on the Tuscany itinerary:

  • Florence: Velona’s Jungle Luxury Suites , Santa Croce 14 , Casa Botticelli
  • Pisa: Rinascimento Bed & Breakfast , La Torre Garbata , The Rif Boutique Hotel
  • Siena: Ca’ Bianca Tuscany Relais , Residenza d’Epoca Le Aquile , B&B Alle Due Porte
  • Pienza: Castello di Spedaletto da Laura , La Chiocarella , Il Mastio di Spedaletto
  • Montepulciano: Il Tosco , Lupaia , Agriturismo San Gallo
  • Montemerano: The Nest in Maremma , Acquaviva Wine Resort , La Casa di Nonna Libia
  • Rome: Colosseum Palace Star , Casa Modelli , Sentho Roma

pienza italy tuscany

How Much does a 5-Day Tuscany Itinerary Cost?

Tuscany is one of the more expensive regions in Italy to visit as it is a popular tourist destination. Remember that prices will increase even more during the summer, and Florence , in particular, can be costly.

Costs of Traveling in Tuscany

Travel on a budget in Tuscany, from $480 − $360 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1210 − $2670 USD, and high-end from $2600 − $3770 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

  • Hotels: $100 − $300 USD Check available hotels
  • Hostels: $20 − $30 USD Check available hostels
  • Transport: $5 − $15 USD Book public transport
  • Car Rental: $50 − $150 USD Book a rental car
  • Food: $30 − $60 USD
  • Activities: $10 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
  • Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
  • Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

If you are on a tighter budget, stay in hostels instead of hotels where available, eat in small local trattorias or make picnic lunches, and avoid pricier tourist attractions. 

best restaurant taormina sicily italian food

Best Time to do a Tuscany Road Trip

The best time to complete your Tuscany itinerary is from April to October, when it is sunny and warm, and all the tourist attractions are open.

Try to avoid peak tourist season in July and August when it can get crowded, and the heat is intense, which can make sightseeing more uncomfortable. For this reason, the shoulder seasons of April/May and September/October are ideal.

October is also a great time to visit for foodies as it is harvest time, with fresh truffles, newly-pressed olive oil, young wines to try, and lots of local food festivals.

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Thanks very much for these very helpful itinerary suggestions. One recommendation—please change out the photos of Cascate del Mulino! They are not crystal blue and untouched, as in the photos. They are greenish and full of people.

Hi MP, we visited the place a long time ago and this truly was what it looked like. We are aware it’s now extremely crowded, and the green color must be because of that reason.

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Siena

How to do Tuscany on a budget

T uscany has a pricey rep. You can spend hundreds on a hotel room or luxury villa, travel everywhere by car (diesel €1.75 a litre), and shop Florence's Via Tornabuoni boutiques. You can eat four courses, wash it down with a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino (€50 and up), then climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa (€17 for half an hour). You can do all this, and it's great. It really is.

But it's not the only way to see Tuscany, and the cheaper alternative need not take you "off the beaten track" in search of "undiscovered gems", and all those other travel cliches. You can see the same amazing sights as everyone else, if sometimes from a different angle. You may have to forgo the Frette linens and evening turn-down service, but you don't need to pack your pop-up tent. And welcome shifts in the pound-euro exchange rate are giving a little extra help this summer.

This city has been separating visitors from their spending money since before the Renaissance. Yet Florence makes a good base for the cost-conscious. Restaurants and hotels are plentiful. You can walk everywhere and are at the hub of the region's transport network. There's even a list maintained by the tourist office, " Firenze a costo zero ", if you have no budget at all.

Accommodation in the centre isn't especially cheap. My favourite is Locanda Orchidea (+39 055 248 0346, hotelorchideaflorence.it , doubles from €50). Get a quiet, traditional room overlooking the leafy courtyard. Bathrooms are shared. Though billed as a hostel, Plus Florence (+39 055 628 6347, plushostels.com/plusflorence , en suite rooms from €45) has amenities that would put hotels four times the price to shame, including a new outdoor pool and Turkish bath. It's an ugly building, but great value.

If you're visiting in August, haggle with somewhere in a higher price category. The city is hot, steamy and deserted (apart from tourists), so deals are plentiful. When hunting online for cheap rooms, there are addresses I avoid: Via Nazionale, Via XXVII Aprile, Piazza dell'Unità Italiana, Via della Scala, and Via Por Santa Maria can all be noisy.

For food, steer clear of the streets between Piazza della Signoria and Piazza del Duomo, with the exception of Le Mossacce (+39 055 294361, trattorialemossacce.it ), a rowdy place that serves the likes of spezzatino (veal stew) at €9 a plate. I also like rough-and-ready Da Rocco (lunch only), inside the Mercato Sant'Ambrogio. The menu is short, but tasty and cheap. South-west of the centre, but still walkable, Sabatino (Via Pisana 2, +39 055 225955) is a friendly diner stuck in the Florentine 1950s. Hearty mains like stuffed roast chicken cost around €5.

Uffizi gallery, Florence

The Uffizi and Accademia (David) cost from €15 and €11 respectively, unless it's your birthday, when they're free. A discount Firenze Card ( firenzecard.it ) gets you into those two and a lot more over 72 hours for €50. But you can see amazing art for nothing in several city churches. The cloister at Santissima Annunziata is a gallery of mannerist frescoes, starring Del Sarto and Rosso Fiorentino. The masterpiece of recluse Pontormo is his Deposition, inside Santa Felicita . Santa Trínita has wall art by Lorenzo Monaco and Domenico Ghirlandaio. The city has multiple versions of the Last Supper: by Ghirlandaio, in Ognissanti (where there's also a Botticelli); by Andrea del Castagno in Sant'Appolonia. The panorama from the steps outside San Miniato al Monte, south of the Arno, is better than any paid-for viewing point in the city. You can bag a free art guided tour, sometimes in English, from Ars et Fides (+39 055 276 3757, arsetfidesfirenze.it ). The website has a timetable.

Temporary show Americans in Florence: Sargent and the American Impressionists runs until 15 July at the Palazzo Strozzi (+39 055 264 5155, palazzostrozzi.org ). Admission costs €10, but is two-for-one between 6pm and 11pm on Thursdays – or cheaper still, download the exhibition catalogue from the iBook store, at 99 cents until 31 May.

For shopping, skip the Guccis and Ferragamos of Via Tornabuoni in favour of the indie stores along Borgo degli Albizi. I also poke around the flea market in Piazza dei Ciompi; last time I was there, I picked up a fistful of vintage postcards and some costume jewellery for under €10.

If you've eaten well and late at lunch, maxing out on aperitivo should be enough for dinner. The drill is straightforward: there's a buffet piled high with simple dishes and hearty salads. As long as you're drinking (slowly, slowly is fine), you can usually eat while the buffet is out (generally 7 to 9-ish). Negroni (Via dei Renai 17, negronibar.com , cocktails €7) is usually jumping. At Derb (Via Faenza 21, derb.it ), a cocktail and plentiful North African aperitivo (plus music) costs €7.

Clubs are pricey, so cap the evening with a free organ concert at Santa Maria de' Ricci (Via del Corso, +39 055 215044) or something eclectic at Le Murate (Piazza delle Murate, lemurate.it ). Free magazine The Florentine ( theflorentine.net ), out every second Thursday, always has listings for cheap events. ArtTrav.com is worth bookmarking for reviews and openings.

A wine tour of Chianti … by public bus

To see the vine-cloaked backroads, you need to hire a car or join an expensive tour. Fortunately, the most famous wine road in Tuscany, the Chiantigiana, is also a bus route.

It's a scenic hour from Florence to Panzano – catch the Firenze to Gaiole bus, via Greve and Radda. Wander up into the old village as far as the Accademia del Buon Gusto (Piazza Ricasoli 11, +39 055 856 0159, accademiadelbuongusto.com ), an enoteca where tasting is "without obligation". Owner Stefano Salvadori is such a knowledgeable host that you'll definitely buy something, but it needn't be pricey. Eat lunch at Dario DOC (Via XX Luglio 11, +39 055 852020, dariocecchini.com ). The "fast-food" outlet of celebrated Panzano butcher Dario Cecchini is a lively spot with communal tables, and top value at €10 for a breaded burger, sage and garlic chips, salads and water. Walk it off: a little south of the village are views over the Conca d'Oro (Golden Shell), one of the winelands' most picturesque tracts.

Greve in Chianti

Hop on the bus back north to Greve, Chianti's "capital", to see the triangular piazza and browse an enoteca or two. Take another bus north one stop to Greti, and the roadside tasting room of Castello di Verrazzano (Via Citille 32, +39 055 854243, verrazzano.com ). It's free to taste here, and there are affordable bottles from this top-notch estate. The last bus back to Florence leaves at 8pm weekdays, 5pm on Saturdays, but forget it on a Sunday. See acvbus.it for timetables. Tickets for the whole journey will total under €10.

Central Tuscany and Siena

The central Tuscan hills are unmissable, but tricky on the cheap, because medieval San Gimignano is a tourist magnet. It's best tackled by switching your base to Siena. The Florence to Siena bus (€8) is quicker than the train. From Siena, eschew an escorted tour to San Gim. Direct buses leave hourly in the morning ( sangimignano.net , €12 return). San Gimignano's church of Sant'Agostino has a frescoed apse by Florentine Benozzo Gozzoli that's free to see. The Torre Grossa, the tallest of San Gim's towers, has great views. But if you walk uphill behind the Collegiata, opposite, to the ruined Rocca (fortress), you get the same sublime views – out over vine-clad hills – gratis. Contemporary Galleria Continua (+39 0577 943134, galleriacontinua.com ) is free, with an Antony Gormley show running until 20 August.

You can take a guided walk-with-views through those hills for €20 a head. Better, the tourist office (Piazza del Duomo 1, +39 0577 940008) sells a hiking map for €8 and you can guide yourself. San Gimignano's spiky towers are visible for miles around – it's practically impossible to get lost.

I usually eat at tiny, unshowy Chiribiri (Piazza della Madonna 1, +39 0577 941948), because Tuscan classics cost about €3 less than anywhere else in town, and it's open all day, 11 until 11, so when I'm with my children they eat at their normal times. Mains cost from €8-10 (cash only). Decent cheap rooms are hard to come by in San Gimignano, so catch an early evening bus back to Siena.

Central budget rooms here can be a little spartan – you're paying to lodge at the heart of one of Europe's best preserved medieval towns, not for the decor. My top choice is Alma Domus (Via Camporegio 37, +39 0577 44177, hotelalmadomus.it , doubles from €66 B&B); request a room with a view. For somewhere with panache, you'll need to stretch the budget, for example to Antica Residenza Cícogna (Via dei Termini 67, +39 0577 285613, anticaresidenzacicogna.it , doubles from €87 B&B).

The best free art in Siena is at the Archivio di Stato (Via Banchi di Sotto 52, +39 0577 247145). Inside are the tavolette della biccherna , medieval wooden covers (for the civic accounts) painted by Siena's leading artists. For €12, the Opa Si Pass ( operaduomo.siena.it ) gets you half-price entry to everything arty around Piazza del Duomo, including up the Facciatone, for a better (and cheaper) view than the Campo's Torre del Mangia. If you can't stretch to that, follow St Catherine for free: she was born at the Casa di Santa Caterina, now an ornate oratory with a 16th-century majolica floor, and is now in the nearby church of San Domenico – her shrivelled, venerated head, anyway.

The pungent delis along Via di Città and Banchi di Sopra are tempting, but expensive, for lunch. Behind the Palazzo Pubblico at Gino Cacino (Piazza del Mercato 31, +39 0577 223076, ginocacinosinena.it ), Gino will load you a hefty roll with salami and pecorino sott'olio (ewe's milk cheese preserved in olive oil) for around €4. Grab a snug dinner at La Chiacchera (Costa di San Antonio 4, +39 0577 280631, osterialachiacchera.it ), where there's no main over €9.

The vineyards of the south‑east

There is a bus service linking Siena with Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano, but it's slow and erratic, so you'll need a car to explore this most scenic bit of Tuscany. Detour via the SS438 through Asciano and the Crete Senesi, otherworldly clay hills whose lonely ridges are spiked with cypress trees. Stop en route for the Signorelli and Sodoma frescoes at the monastery of Monte Oliveto Maggiore ( monte-oliveto.com ), which are also free to view. You can stay with the Olivetan monks, in a private double room, from €62 ( monasterystays.com ) or make an overnight stop in Pienza, where Il Giardino Segreto (Via Condotti 13, +39 0578 748539, ilgiardinosegretopienza.it , doubles from €55 room only) has simple rooms ranged round a peaceful garden.

Sant'Antimo, Tuscany

Unmissable art freebies around the Val d'Orcia include Pienza's Duomo, an Austrian-style Renaissance church whose Sienese altarpieces remain where they were originally placed by Pope Pius II (most in Tuscany have been shifted to museums); and the honey-coloured travertine Collegiata in San Quirico. A guided tour at one of Italy's top wine cantinas, Poggio Antico in Montalcino (+39 0577 848044, poggioantico.com ), is also free, and in English. Call in the morning to check times. Tasting afterwards costs, but starts at just €2 (up to €25) depending on how many wines are sampled. Leave time for mass conducted in chant at the nearby Romanesque abbey of Sant'Antimo ( antimo.it ). Contact Montalcino's tourist office (Costa del Municipio 1, +39 0577 849331, prolocomontalcino.it ) to double-check the chant schedule. Anyone dressed "respectfully" is welcome.

For boutique B&B bargains, head south-east to Etruscan Chiusi, where Casa Toscana (+39 0578 222227, bandbcasatoscana.it , doubles €60 B&B) is a villa with spacious, colour-washed rooms. A half-hour guided exploration of Chiusi's Etruscan tunnels costs just €3 (+39 0578 67111, tourism.intoscana.it ).

North of here, my favourite bargain lodging in Tuscany is stylish Vizi Ottavo (+39 334 587 4174, viziottavo.com , B&B doubles from €70) in sleepy Castiglion Fiorentino, whose rooms are themed on the seven deadly sins. Use it as a base to explore pricier Cortona and Arezzo, both within 15 miles.

Donald Strachan is the co-author of Frommer's Florence, Tuscany & Umbria , John Wiley & Sons, £16.99

  • Tuscany holidays
  • Italy holidays
  • Budget travel
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How to Enjoy Tuscany on a Budget

Tuscany is one of the most traveled regions in Italy and with good reason! Besides the beautiful rolling hills and cyprus trees that dot the countryside, visitors can find some of the best art, architecture, and food in the world. But experiencing such things on your travels doesn’t have to be expensive! That’s why we’ve created this guide on how to see Tuscany on a budget.

Rolling hills of tuscany with vineyards as seen from San Gimignano

From accommodation to getting around and of course, dining, we cover all the bases that travelers should take into account when seeing Tuscany on a budget.

What about our own experience?

We spent a total of 10 days in Tuscany in early September, finishing with a daily budget of exactly $30 per day, excluding accommodation (more on that below). Not too shabby! A helpful app for budget travelers is TravelSpend . Its free version is all you need!

Ok, with that out of the way, let’s see how to travel Tuscany on a budget!

Where to Stay

Benefits of studying abroad: Live in Arezzo, Italy

The biggest chunk of your budget in Tuscany will most likely be spent on accommodation. Tuscany is a big region with lots of must-see cities and sights, but the most notable (and popular) of these is Florence.

So, what’s our biggest recommendation on where to stay in Tuscany for cheap?

Don’t stay in Florence!

We’re not saying to avoid Florence! You should at least visit because, well, it’s Florence. Enough said.

But when you choose the most touristy city in the region to settle down for your trip, your costs are going to go up fast and unnecessarily so!

From Lucca to Pisa to less traveled but still beautiful cities like Arezzo (it has great train connections), there are so many other options for accommodation in Tuscany.

For example, we stayed in Poggibonsi for less than $40 USD per night in an Airbnb, saving us a ton on accomodation. Siena was only a 20-30 minute train ride away and it cost around 7 euros roundtrip to get there. San Gimignano was only a 20 minute bus ride and tickets were super cheap.

What’s our point?

Tuscany has so many options besides Florence where you can stay and save money for other things in your budget for more important things…like wine tastings!

As is usually the case with budget traveling, you’ll have to do a little planning on your part for day trips and excursions. But with good train travel connections across Tuscany it won’t be much of a hassle!

Not sure on where to start looking for accommodation? Check out our post about where to stay in Tuscany for some good options that aren’t Florence!

Seek Out Cheap Experiences

Grapes hanging on their vines

Just a few seconds on TripAdvisor and you’ll find loads of tours. Florence, Siena, Pisa, so many cities (and wineries) have so many tours.

That said, not all of them are worth the price!

Many things offered via tour in Tuscany you can do on your own. And if you ask us, travel is better that way.

Well, most of the time . There are countries and cities, especially those less-traveled ones, where a tour makes sense and is a great time. However, we think Tuscany is easy and worthwhile to explore by yourself. It all depends on you and your travels!

Whether you’re wanting to check out Siena and its awe inspiring Duomo or take your taste buds to gelato heaven in San Gimignano , it can be done on your own and save you money in the long run.

There are tons of resources out there for fun experiences besides TripAdvisor. Airbnb Experiences has become quite popular and rightfully so! We tend to use this resource first to get an idea of how much a paid activity in a destination will cost us.

In Tuscany, you have a lot of budget-friendly options for fun outings; you just have to find them! We had the experience of a lifetime at an organic wine and olive oil tasting in Chianti (region within Tuscany) for $30 USD total!

That’s right, $30 USD got us a four hour tour of an old villa and vineyard during harvest time in September. It ended with a fantastic tasting and some nice chat time with fellow travelers. The hosts were incredible, warmly welcoming us and ensuring we had a wonderful time.

So, yes, you don’t have to shell out a ton of money in Tuscany in order to have an amazing time!

All it requires is some research ahead of time on your part and you can make memorable experiences happen on a budget!

Don’t forget about free walking tours! These are a very budget-friendly way to get the layout and history of a city. These will be more common in the more traveled cities.

How to Get Around Tuscany on a Budget

Clock tower on a stree in Tuscan town

Public transport, anyone?

Nothing screams “I’m a budget traveler!” like lugging your bags around on buses, trains, trams, subways, you get the idea. And let’s be real, it gets pretty exhausting and sometimes you’d kill for a taxi or Uber or a personal travel chauffeur. Wouldn’t that be nice?

However, Tuscany (Italy in general) is good for convenient public transport and one that budget travel seekers should take advantage of!

It’s cheap and will get you where you need to go! That is, unless you’re taking a bus; they’re not always on time, which we’re about to talk about it!

Buses in Tuscany

By far the cheapest way to get around Tuscany is by bus. For example, a bus from Siena to Florence will cost you just 8.40 euros and take around an hour and a half. But again, Italian buses aren’t always reliable.

Our example?

We once had a bus be over 30 minutes late. Apparently the “organization” had told the driver the wrong information and he was in the wrong city.

So, whatever happened, our point is to not always trust Italian buses. Our mishap isn’t the only Italian bus fail we’ve heard of.

That said, FlixBus or other private operators are more reliable, especially if going to more popular cities like Florence, Siena, Pisa, etc…

Trains in Tuscany

The train is arguably just as affordable as buses in Tuscany and we prefer this mode of travel.

A train from Siena to Florence will cost you only 9.50 euros and take an hour and a half. Trains can be much more reliable when traveling in Tuscany.

The trick with the trains in Tuscany: if you’re wanting to travel a longer distance then you should look at tickets three months in advance of your trip to see if you can get a discounted ticket for your journey. Prices can get pretty high for long journeys!

If you have a more adventurous spirit and a more flexible budget then look into what car rental deals are available. We rented a car in Sicily for $12USD for 2 days. The only expensive part was the gas but as long as you get a fuel efficient car then you should be able to keep costs down. We think our Sicily deal was too good to be true but we’re certain you can find a very affordable rental in Tuscany!

On Foot or By Bike

Two people on bikes on a path in Tuscany

In many parts of Tuscany it’s possible to travel from town to town on foot. They’ve built many walking paths connecting towns that you can seek out and explore.

Keep in mind that this is the slowest form of travel and isn’t the most efficient, especially if you’re toting a lot of weight on your back.

City/Attraction Passes

Shops lighting up the streets of San Gimignano

City passes (or attraction passes) are a good idea when you plan on visiting a city for a short amount of time but have a lot to see! Especially in Tuscan cities like Siena or Florence, you’ll want to look into these inclusive passes that will save you a good amount of money.

See Siena’s pass and Florence’s pass (FirenzeCard) for more info on if it’s right for you!

If you’re not trying to cram in all the museums and other priced attractions, you may want to decline on buying a pass.

Even smaller gems in Tuscany like San Gimignano have a pass. However, be sure and start at the Torre Grossa (Grossa Tower) where you can purchase a pass. We began at the Duomo, which is included in the pass, but they weren’t offering the pass there.

While that was frustrating, to say the least, our advice is to always be on the lookout for a city/attraction pass in any city you visit in Tuscany! Your budget will be happier!

Find out more about San Gimignano’s pass is you’re interested!

Don’t Eat in the Piazza

tuscany travel on a budget

This rule is no different in Tuscany than everywhere else on the planet. Don’t eat in the main tourist area if you’re on a budget!

The main piazza in Tuscan towns are by far the most tempting places to grab a bite to eat but they’re also the most expensive.

We understand, the Piazza del Campo in Siena is stunning and dining with that view sounds awesome. But why pay double the price for food when you can find hidden gems all over town and away from the touristy areas? Your budget will thank you and your taste buds will too!

Pizza, tortellina, tigella, prosciuto and cheese from Tigella Emilia

While exploring Siena, there was a period of rain in the afternoon. We decided to sit down at one of the restaurants on Piazza del Campo for some espresso and people watch until the weather cleared. The espresso alone cost 3 euros each plus a service fee! That’s just dumb, seeing as how you can easily get an espresso for a euro elsewhere.

Especially in the more visited cities, try and explore restaurants off the main piazza, you won’t regret it!

Explore the Free Things to Do in a City

Inside and garden of Basilica of San Francesco

With so many destinations scattered about the region, what about free things to do? In Italy, you can always find churches, churches, and more churches! It never got old to us but if seeing the architecture or immaculate artwork inside these places doesn’t suit you, there’s always something free to do.

Whether it’s simply walking down side streets, lounging in a park, taking pictures, finding good views, or simply admiring these medieval towns, you can always occupy yourself with something enjoyable in Tuscany on a budget.

Summary of Tuscany on a Budget!

Tuscany is most definitely doable on a budget! From staying in less popular destinations to being smart when eating out, these are budget tips to apply to any travels. If you have any tips to suggest or questions about anything Tuscany or travel then don’t hesitate to contact us or drop a comment below. We wish you an amazing stay in Tuscany!

Happy travels!

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tuscany travel on a budget

Where Food Takes Us

We’re Darah and Garrett. Our life has been an adventure ever since we eloped in a pink Cadillac in Las Vegas. Now we’re running around the world, working online, and eating everything we can.

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Bougie on a budget: How to do Tuscany for cheap

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Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

We here at TPG love a good deal — more than that, we love a good deal on a spendy location. Today we're looking at Tuscany, the world-famous wine region in Italy that's inspired one love story after another.

While Tuscany is rife with rich hotels and boutique B&Bs, you've got a variety of options for high-end hotels on a budget. First, the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa is a gorgeous Marriott property that sits at Category 4, which makes this hotel cost just 30,000 points/night.

Image courtesy of Marriott.

With Marriott's easy-to-earn award points and portfolio of co-branded credit cards , snagging a stay here is easily obtainable. For maximum bang for your buck, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card is offering 100,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

If you're a Hilton fan, the Hilton Florence Metropole is a steal at 40,000 points/night. With views of the duomo and an executive lounge for Diamond members, the property is a great way to stretch your points. If you don't already have status, the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire card is my personal favorite for achieving elite status on the cheap .

The information for the Hilton Aspire Amex card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

tuscany travel on a budget

Finally, if you're a Hyatt loyalist you'll be pleased to know that the chain's partnership with SLH has resulted in several properties throughout Tuscany. Most sit at a Category 6, but the Villa Le Maschere is a fabulous country house just outside of Florence slated at Category 5 (for 20,000 points/night). Considering Hyatt is a 1:1 transfer partner with Chase, your Ultimate Rewards will go far here.

Image courtesy of SLH.

While you aren't going to find nonstop fares to Florence, you can routinely find one-stop deals for under $500.

tuscany travel on a budget

However, if you're looking to spend no money at all, you're in luck. Nearly every major carrier and low-budget airline routes through Europe, which means that if you've got points to burn with Star Alliance, Skyteam or Oneworld, you can maximize your miles on a flight to Europe and connect onward to Florence for cheap (or even free).

Saver business-class awards to Europe are not terribly hard to come by and cost just 57,500 AAdvantage miles, plus $5.60 each way. You can earn nearly this number of miles with a single credit card sign-up bonus, such as the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, which is currently offering 50,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 within the first three months of account opening.

My favorite technique is to use Avianca LifeMiles (transferred from Capital One, Citi and American Express ), to book flights across the ocean for 30,000 miles (63,000 in business class). Avianca, though one of the lesser-known Star Alliance members, frequently offers phenomenal deals on purchased miles and doesn't add on fuel surcharges, which makes it my go-to airline for spending as little money as possible.

tuscany travel on a budget

Even better, Avianca doesn't differentiate between the east coast and west coast when booking awards, which means I can snag a flight from Los Angeles as easily as I can from New York, with no difference in cost.

tuscany travel on a budget

Bottom line

It's a hard-knock life for us rich resort wannabes, but luckily options abound in Italy's Tuscan region for the frugal-minded. Take advantage of low-cost flights and hotels without sacrificing style so you can be bougie on a budget.

The Discoveries Of

Tuscany Travel Guide

Planning an escape to the lush region of Tuscany? From exploring teetering hilltop towns to restaurants the locals don’t want you to know about, discover all you need to know about planning a trip with this Tuscany travel guide. 

Tuscany is one of Italy’s most enchanting regions. Home to verdant hills and green valleys dotted with olive and cypress trees, medieval villages and vineyards producing bold wines, it’s bewitched many a visitor’s heart. 

I’ve spent several stretches of time exploring this fabled region – most recently on a month-long research trip last October – and every time I go back, I love it that little bit more. 

With so many places to see and ways to explore Tuscany, the difficulty is working out what to focus on for your trip. Try and do it all and you’ll end up a ragged mess. This guide will help you discover and experience this unique region for yourself.  Let’s dive in! 

Volterra, Tuscany

22 Unmissable Places to Visit in Tuscany

Top picks for tuscany.

San Gimignano drone image

7 Days in Tuscany: Cultural Charms and Scenic Delights with The Perfect Tuscany Itinerary

Montalcino, Tuscany

15 Stunning Towns & Cities in Tuscany You Have to Visit

Tuscany

The Ultimate Tuscany Road Trip: Five Days in Tuscany

San Gimignano, Tuscany-19

Where to Stay in Tuscany: Finding the Best Areas + Hotels For an Unforgettable Experience

How to plan a trip.

Sitting on the wall in Volterra

Best time to visit

Tuscany’s Mediterranean climate brings warm, dry summers and cold winters. Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season, but this often comes with soaring temperatures, crowded landmarks and hotel rates. 

Spring, which runs from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, are Italy’s shoulder seasons and arguably the best times to visit Tuscany. These off–season months bring enjoyable weather and lower rates for top attractions and hotels.

Handy Resources

  • Skyscanner is a good platform to find and compare flight tickets.
  • If you don’t want to worry about meticulously planning out your Greece itinerary, look at the fantastic all-inclusive tours with G Adventures.
  • Italy Magazine’s Travel section has lots of inspiration for a Tuscany trip 
  • Art Trav is a blog by an Italian art historian making art history accessible – with a whole section on Tuscany  
  • Booking.com for accommodation 
  • Plum Guide for high-quality apartment rentals 
  • Compare Rental Car Prices with Holiday Autos 

Where to Stay

Accommodation in Tuscany is abundant, giving you lots of options. From standard hotels to affordable hostels, and luxurious villas, Tuscany has lodging that will fit every budget. You can find the best hotels in Tuscany on Booking.com .

Pensiones are small traditional hotels available in most major cities and small towns. These lodgings are fantastic options if you travel to Tuscany on a tight budget – plus they often serve traditional food and hearty breakfasts.

Holiday Homes are another wonderful alternative if you’d like to avoid the crowds that hotels and hostels generally draw. Plum Guide offers a wide range of individually inspected holiday homes, giving you impeccable comfort.

Recommended Hotels

The pool at Borgo Santo Pietro

Packing For Your Trip

  • Airy and lightweight dresses and long skirts are ideal for Tuscany’s summer and spring days. 
  • Don’t forget to pack sun-protectants like a sun hat, sunglasses, and SPF sunscreen.
  • Bring a raincoat for rainy days and a lightweight jacket, which is handy when hiking outdoors.
  • Flat, comfortable shoes – it’s easy to clock up the miles in Tuscany.

Travel Insurance

I never travel without travel insurance – even in a destination that’s relatively risk-free like Tuscany. Whether it’s delayed baggage, cancelled flights or another emergency, it’s good to know you’re covered. 

Suggested Guidebooks

  • Rick Steves Florence & Tuscany
  • Lonely Planet
  • Tuscany in Your Pocket

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Tuscany Visitor Guide: What to Do During Your Tuscany Trip

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Top Things to Do

Explore the historic centre of florence.

Welcome to Florence – a melting pot of art, culture and architecture clustered around an impossibly gorgeous historic centre. The UNESCO World Heritage Site has several museums, cathedrals, and a bustling town square. Plan to spend a minimum of two days here , but you’ll really need five to get to the heart of the city. 

Of course, you have to see Michelangelo’s “David”,  a world-renowned masterpiece of the Renaissance era, now housed in the Accademia. The sculpture was the first colossal marble statue after antiquity, setting a precedent for art in the 16th century and beyond. 

How does sweeping views of Florence from atop Giotto’s Bell Tower sound? The 85-metre free-standing campanile, and the Duomo Cathedral, form an ionic complex in Florence. 

Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Even so far back as the 14th century, it was clear that there was a problem with what’s affectionately known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Several centuries later, it may well be the world’s most famous architectural mishap. 

Take the opportunity to climb this famous structure and marvel at the views of the Campo dei Miracoli and the rest of Pisa spread out below. If you’re a Renaissance architecture lover, the historic churches and mediaeval palaces make for an unforgettable time in Pisa. 

Read Next: Unmissable Things to do in Pisa 

Enjoy Wine Tasting in Chianti

Is there anywhere more bucolic than Chianti? With its cluster of historic towns and seemingly endless stretches of vineyard, a visit to Chianti is a must. Pop into Castello di Albola , Antinori and Castello di Verrazzano to sample some of the best wines in the region. 

Escape into Mediaeval Siena

I tell no lies when I say that Siena is one of the must-visit places in Tuscany. The town centre is a Gothic architectural fantasy come true – and when you throw in an iconic cathedral, intriguing museums and a popping food scene, it’s easy to see why it should go straight to the top of your Tuscany itinerary. 

Head to the impressive Duomo (cathedral), which somehow manages to be even more magnificent inside than out, or wander around the Santa Maria della Scala – an old hospital turned gallery across the road. Don’t miss the Piazza del Campo, which hosts Siena’s famous Palio horse races twice yearly – its oval shape is stunning at any time of year. 

Walk Around The City Walls of Lucca

I know it’s wrong to have favourites but Lucca’s well-preserved Renaissance walls and historic city centre are special. 

In any other part of the world, Lucca , with its quaint churches and historic palazzos, would be the main attraction – but sitting in the shadow of places like Pisa and Florence, it’s much more of a quiet gem.  

Spend at least a day walking around the city walls and admire the city’s Romanesque buildings before heading to the gorgeous Palazzo Pfanner – a historical palazzo that was used as a filming location for Portrait of a Lady . Round it all off by booking a table at the legendary Buca di Sant’Antonio for a taste of real Lucchese cuisine. 

Read Next: Lucca Travel Guide 

Discover the Charms of the Val D’Orcia

If you conjure up a vision of the Tuscan countryside – one of rolling hills studded with honey-coloured towns and villages, olive groves and cypress trees glinting in the last glow of the day’s sun, you’re conjuring up an image of the Val D’Orcia.  

This is arguably Tuscany’s most picturesque spot. Plan to spend days puttering from town to village, whether on foot or by car, heading to lesser-known spots like San Quirico D’Orcia and big hitters like Montepulciano and Montalcino . 

Read Next: What You Need to Know About Visiting Val D’Orcia 

Visit Isola del Giglio

If island life tickles your fancy, there’s no better place than Isola del Giglio. This tiny island on the Tyrrhenian Sea has a colourful port town, inviting pristine waters and unspoiled natural beauty.

Marvel at the Towers of San Gimignano

“The Manhattan of the Middle Ages”, or San Gimignano , has more towers than all the hill towns in Tuscany. These colossal towers date back to 1300 and dominate the city’s skyline. Climb the highest one “Torre Grosso” for incredible views of the town and surrounding countryside.

Suggested Tuscany Itineraries

10-14 days 

Florence >> Chianti >> San Gimignano >> Siena >> Val D’Orcia >> Cortona >> Arezzo >> Pisa >> Lucca >> Florence 

See the best of Tuscany on this 10-day itinerary, charting through some of the region’s better and lesser-known charms. 

Read Next: The Ultimate 10-Day Tuscany Itinerary

Recommended Tours

Poliziano Vineyard

Hidden Tuscany: Off the Beaten Path

There’s more to Tuscany than the Renaissance architecture that first meets the eye. It’s home to many off-the-beaten-path villages.

Montalcino is a hilltop settlement surrounded by vineyards and home to the best red wines you’ll taste in Italy. 

Pistoia’s old city – complete with cathedral square and market district – are among the prettiest in Tuscany, all that’s missing is the crowds. 

La Verna Monastery – Visit the very place where St Francis of Assisi is said to have experienced stigmata. 

Pitigliano is another awe-inspiring town, sitting atop a large boulder made of tuff rock.

How to See the Best of Tuscany for Free

Choosing where to travel in Tuscany can be challenging if you have a low budget. But there are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself without breaking the bank.

Tuscany is home to many natural hot springs, like those at Bagni San Filippo, where you can soak your worries away for free. 

Free Walking tours are also common practice in Tuscany. Locals lead tourists through the city in exchange for small tips.

Dishes to Try in Tuscany

Fettunta is a traditional Italian appetiser made with a slice of toasted bread, drizzled with olive oil and salt.

Panzanella – a chopped salad made with bread and sun-dried vegetables like tomatoes and onions, often topped off with olive oil and vinegar.

Fagioli all’uccelletto is a soup made of beans and tomatoes with sage. 

Bistecca Fiorentina – genuine Chianina cow T-bone served rare. 

Top Drinks in Tuscany

Negroni – a cocktail made with equal parts of gin, sweet vermouth and Campari.

Chianti wine – a bold red blend from the Chianti Wine Region.

Alchermes – an ancient Italian liqueur made of rosewater, sugar, herbs, and spices.

Must-Try Bars & Restaurants in Tuscany

Sarporium Borgo Santo Pietro

Saporium at Borgo Santo Pietro

Saporium at Borgo Santo Pietro is undoubtedly one of Tuscany’s best restaurants, and one which recently received its Michelin star.

Go for the tasting menus, at €195 per person excluding wine they’re not cheap but showcase the true extent of the chef’s vision of a high-end menu using locally-sourced Tuscan ingredients. 

Macelleria il Mattone Due, Montaione 

Macelleria il Mattone Due is a local restaurant in Montaione run by a local butcher and specialising in steak. This really does feel like the kind of restaurants the locals don’t want you to know about – a gem of a place that serves stellar food. 

Opt for the bistecca fiorentina – cooked to perfection and served simply with potatoes and vegetables in the restaurant’s small courtyard. It’s a steal too – with a meal for two with wine costing €106. 

Buca di Sant’Antonio, Lucca

Buca di Sant’Antonio is not only one of the oldest restaurants in Lucca (it’s referred to by name in a document in 1782), it’s also one of the city’s best. 

This charismatic restaurant serves traditional Lucchese cuisine. Go for the rabbit pate and tortelli lucchese – two local specialities that will light up your tastebuds. Expect to pay around €95 for two three-course meals with glasses of wine. 

Travel Guide: Things to Know Before You Plan a Trip to Tuscany

Sunset with sunbeams in Cypress grove

Tipping in Tuscany

Tipping is not necessary in Tuscany, but restaurants often have a fixed percentage of the “service charge” – typically 10%. I would check this before you pay, and if you had great service, you’re welcome to add your own. 

Interesting Facts

  • Italian, the language, comes from the Tuscan dialect.
  • Tuscany is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • About 20,000 objects of cultural value have been counted in Tuscany – more than in any other Italian region. 
  • Tuscany’s Maremma region has its very own type of cowboys – the butteri herd cattle and wild horses through the Maremma’s swampy plains. 
  • The region shares a lineage with the ancient Etruscans .

Handy Phrases

Ciao – Hello

Buongiorno – Good morning  

Arrivederci or Addio – Goodbye

Per favore – Please  

Grazie – Thank you  

Prego – You’re welcome  

Si/no – Yes/no

Scusami – Pardon me  

Tuscany uses Central European Time (GMT+1) and Central European Summer Time (GMT +2) during the summer months .

Electricity and Adapters

Tuscany uses the EU standard plug types C and F, but you may also find type L outlets. Bring a universal electrical adapter if you’re visiting from outside the European Union.

There are no health risks associated with travelling to Tuscany specifically. The region’s tap water is safe to drink, and medical services are readily available.

Tuscany has a sophisticated road transportation system, so you can quickly get around the region without much hassle. The best way to get around Tuscany is via a rental car or bus, but you can also use the train if you’re sticking to better-connected places.

Tuscany is overall a safe place to visit. Violent crimes involving tourists are rare, though petty crimes like pickpocketing may occur in crowded areas.

Costs and Budgeting

Average Daily Costs in Tuscany:

  • Mid-Range: £80-£120 / $100-$150 per night
  • Luxury: £200-£400 / $250-$500 per night
  • Budget: £15-£25 / $20-$30 per meal
  • Mid-Range: £30-£50 / $40-$65 per meal
  • Fine Dining: £80-£150 / $100-$200 per meal

Public Transport:

  • Bus/Train Tickets: £1.50-£3 / $2-$4 per ride
  • Day Pass: £5-£10 / $7-$15 per day

Attractions:

  • Museum/Attraction Entry: £5-£15 / $7-$20 per person
  • Guided Tours: £20-£50 / $25-$65 per person
  • Half-Day Tours: £30-£60 / $40-$80 per person
  • Full-Day Tours: £60-£150 / $80-$200 per person

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Our Eight Best Tuscany Travel Tips

Categories Destination Tips , Destinations , Italy , Italy , On a shoestring , Travel Tips

Our Eight Best Tuscany Travel Tips

Last Updated on May 15, 2023

tuscany travel tips

Table of Contents

The Eight Best Tuscany Travel Tips

1. fly into cheaper european hubs.

If you travel to Tuscany from the U.S. or from Northern Europe, avoid the temptation to fly right in to Florence. Airlines do not run as many deals to Florence airports as they do to major traffic hubs like Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, three hours form Florence or Milan’s airports which can be reached in under four hours. Car rentals are considerably cheaper from  outlets in major Italian cities than in Florence as well.

You might even consider looking into flights further afield by flying into airport hubs in neighboring countries and then hopping over to Florence, or better still, Pisa with one of Europe’s great no frills airlines. Check flights with Ryanair , Easyjet or Euro Wings .

2. Team up!

Tuscany

3. What about public transportation?

There is plenty of public transportation, and certainly an option, but renting a car affords you the freedom to tour through the various Tuscan villages at your leisure and is easier for day trips. If you can share costs as we recommend above, even bette Since prices at the big car rental companies like Hertz, Budget or Avis looked too high, I checked out different car hire comparison sites. In the end, I booked through Carrentals.com . This is the way we found the best rental car deal through a site we had never used before, Argusrentals.com, for a low-priced Avis rental car.

Public transport definitely has its own set of advantages, however, the first being the cost. Public transport is cheaper than renting a car, and a good majority of Tuscan cities and towns are connected by trains and buses, which leave regularly from main stations and cost only a few Euros for short distances. If you are a solo traveler, or making mostly one way trips through the region, train travel is definitely the cheaper option. If you don’t want to take the train, no worries: there are plenty of organized tours available in Tuscany, for example:

Train travel is very cheap in Italy, if you book in advance online. Book your tickets through the Omio website which has a user-friendly English-language booking system and compares train prices for you. The other option is to buy your ticket at one of the easy ticket machines in the train station, which also have an English speaking menu and discounted tickets for purchases made 2-3 days in advance. Trains from Pisa to Lucca cost €4, from Pisa to Florence €8.90, and from Florence to Poggibonsi (for San Gimignano) are €8.50.

The other benefit to public transport is that everyone can sample the wine! Tuscany is all about the wine, and with the responsibility of the rental car comes the role of the designated driver, whereas with the train, everyone can partake.

4. Rent a villa –  seriously.

Far from a bling budget-breaker reserved for rappers or movie stars, renting a villa in Tuscany is simply a smart travel choice. Hostels in Italy are expensive, and even a bed in a dorm room will cost €20 – €30 per night. If you are traveling in a group, booking a villa or holiday apartment will work out cheaper every time. Whether you rent a villa or a holiday apartment – your group will have a private, economical stay for as little as €15 per person per night in the low season. In the high season, visitors to Tuscany will have to be ready to shell out more cash, but if you book a villa far enough in advance, you will still pay less than in hotels or even hostels unless you are traveling entirely alone.

Tip: In addition to Airbnb, check out lesser known vacation rental websites, such as Plumguide . You may find a better deal there.

italy farmhouse

5. Stay away in the summer

tuscany travel tips

6. Drink wine!

That’s right. You can drink bucket-loads of the best Italian wines like Chianti, Montepulciano and Pinot Grigio. These wines are produced locally and are ridiculously affordable, available in stores for between €2-€5 per bottle. So pack your corkscrew and get ready to enjoy inexpensive wines at the beach, on a picnic, or in your villa. Even when eating in a restaurant, a half bottle of house wine costs as little as €2.50, while a full bottle, at up to €6, costs the same as two glasses of beer – so why not!

A great Tuscany travel tip for wine lovers: If you have a car, stop at the wineries around Tuscany, where you can fill up your own containers for €0.50 to €0.75 per liter – larger than the average bottle of wine! For olive oil fans, the same cheap fill-ups can be found in olive orchards throughout Tuscany as well.

lucca wine bottles

7. Cook your meals

Much of the tourism in Tuscany is food-related, and with a bit of hunting you can eat on the cheap, but if you’ve got a kitchen where you are staying, cooking will save you cash. Stop in at the market and pick up great pasta, sauce  and fresh Italian bread (and a lot of that wine we mentioned) and whip up a homemade meal for the whole group for under €10.

Farmers Market Tuscany

8. Find where the locals eat in Tuscany

This advice goes for travel anywhere, but especially in Italy. We had been packing in pizza nearly everyday and had no complaints, regardless where we picked it up. However, when we were exploring Siena, we walked past a hole-in-the-wall with no sign and a line of at least twenty locals – school children in uniform and office workers on their lunch breaks. We snuck in line and picked up two giant slices of the best pizza ever and a drink for $3.50. The same goes for gelato. If you develop a gelato vice like we did, you’ll want to find deals, as it can be a pricey addiction. A cone of gelato near the famous Ponte Vecchio in Florence runs at €3.20, but just a few streets further west, the same portion of creamy gelato goodness costs less than €2 for the same size portion.

volterra spaghetti

9. Drink Espresso, preferably standing up

Known for its coffee culture, Italy has over 110,000 espresso bars and Italians drink over 70 million espressos each year. So immerse yourself in true Italian culture by ordering an espresso, which normally costs €0.55 and is never more than €0.90. You pay the same price for a ‘Macchiato’, an espresso topped with foamed milk, while a cappuccino is usually between €0.90 and €1.10. When you travel to Tuscany, you’ll notice that many espresso bars charge less when you drink your coffee standing at the bar, like the locals do, so forgo table service while you recharge your caffeine levels.

10. Take your time on the road in Tuscany

Unless you are in a major hurry, smart travelers to Tuscany should avoid the Italian highways, called ‘autostradas’. The roads are incredibly well-maintained and efficient, but that comes at a premium. Highway tolls can add up quickly. The one-hour ride between Florence and Lucca costs more than €7, and the four hour trip between Lucca and Milan up to €25 one way! The country roads, on the other hand, are free of charge and many run roughly parallel to the highways. When the roads do twist and turn, you’ll get the chance to pass through lesser known Tuscan villages, and you can stop wherever you want rather than speeding past on the highway.

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Thursday 31st of December 2015

Hi Dani. I plan to travel to Italy alone I am a women.. is it safe for me to do that. I don't have anyone at the moment who wants to go with me. Coming from South-Africa

Tuesday 5th of January 2016

Hi Esmeralda, yes it's very safe! You might get cat calls from some men... the Italians are very fond of women ;-) I was reminded of that on a recent trip to Venice. But they would never harass you. Just beware of pickpockets in larger cities like Florence and Rome. Enjoy Italy!

Saturday 17th of August 2013

Hello ladies! Love your blog! What an awesome adventure you are living. :)

I am planning a girls trip to Tuscany for this fall. Do you have any recommendations for sites to find a good B&B? I've heard that you can stay in farm houses. That would be very cool.

Thanks for any advice you can provide. :)

Friday 23rd of August 2013

Hi Kristy, great to hear from you. Tuscany - yes! Can we come? ;-) We usually use Booking.com for good deal on B&Bs - you can filter and have them just show you B&Bs for the destination of your choice. Hostelbookers.com also has B&Bs in their listings, not only hostels (you can also filter your search by accommodation category and pick 'guesthouse') BedandBreakfast.com is probably the best-known site for B&Bs, we used it a few times in England and I think they also have lots of properties in Italy. You might also want to try Agriturismo.it, a site for all the agriturismos (vacationing in farm house resorts) - there are some quite good deals for them in the off-season and they are usually in fantastic countryside locations (considering you have a rental car), and since you mention you'd like to stay in farm houses, that might be the right site for you :) Enjoy your trip to Italy!

Wednesday 27th of March 2013

Love your tips! I've ever been told that as budget traveller, think and act most like locals. Stay with locals, eat like locals, use transportation like locals. Thanks for sharing!

Regards. http://www.jakpost.travel/

Tuesday 2nd of October 2012

Hi! I am planning to celebrate my 50th birthday, this time next year, by traveling on a shoestring to Rome and Tuscany. It will be my first trip to Italy and I am highly inclined to do it as a solo adventure. I'd be grateful for any tips, especially regarding lodging.

Wednesday 3rd of October 2012

Hi Denise, thanks a lot for getting in touch! Well, these tips here in this post are good start for Tuscany, and for the cheapest options for lodging we recommend looking into B&Bs. There are some really cute Bed & Breakfasts in all of the pretty Tuscan towns which are usually much cheaper than hotels. We also use websites like Bookingbuddy.com to find cheap hotels - the site basically compares all the major hotel booking websites for you and finds the best deals for your dates - and most hotels always run promotions on Expedia, Booking.com, etc, which they don't offer on their own website. If you are planning to see Italy on public transport, we recommend booking tickets directly on http://www.trenitalia.com/ (they have an English site) and in advance - it'll save you a lot of money. If you plan to rent a car (which makes traveling around Tuscany MUCH easier) we usually also use BookingBuddy for car rentals and let them compare all the different providers, but last time we were in Italy we found ArgusCarHire.com to have the cheapest offers. I hope this helps a bit and please feel free to get in touch again if you have more questions - enjoy your big Italy adventure next year!

Sally Stretton

Saturday 1st of September 2012

I would love to visit Tuscany one day. I appreciate the advice about which airports offer the cheapest flights. I think I am going to try to get a group of friends at work together for a trip during our fall or spring break. Perhaps if I get enough people on board and find a great deal, my portion might be little or nothing!!

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Budget friendly vacation accommodations in Tuscany

Ideally, affordable accommodations means finding something that fits into your budget while still ensuring you the freedom to explore and enjoy . Tuscany, in its wide diversity from city to country, from quaint medieval hamlet to a fully functional farm provides ample space for you to find just the right place to stay at a price that works for you. Some of the most interesting places might take you off the beaten track but compensate with an entirely new panorama of Tuscany , giving you some of your best holiday memories ever!

Traveling Tuscany on a Budget

Choose from economical bed and breakfasts , low priced hotels or bargain deals on farmhouse or a self catering apartments . Accommodations for families , which offer a swimming pool and a large garden for romping around can also offer exceptional views and easy access to garden markets for the best buys . Room rentals where there are no high priced extras - just a simple bedroom with private bath. No frills accommodations or a cosy country decor, there is something for everyone’s budget .

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tuscany travel on a budget

Top 10 Budget Accommodations

Find low priced travelling options in Tuscany and keep your vacation within your budget.  Economically priced B&Bs, hotels, vacation rental apartments, villa and farmhouses are available throughout the region of Tuscany for singles, couples and families.

tuscany travel on a budget

La Topaia B&B - Sunflowers & Cooking Lessons near Florence

La Topaia offers 2 comfortable mini-apartments and 3 rooms in the main villa for your Tuscan holiday in Mugello. The countryside location is perfect for enjoying a relaxing vacation but it is close enough to make it easy to visit Florence and the rest of Tuscany.

tuscany travel on a budget

Tenuta Quadrifoglio - Bring the Kids to Tuscany

Tenuta Quadrifoglio is a family friendly estate with playgrounds, horses and lots of green space for the kids.  They have double B&B rooms and apartments that host from 2 to 6 people and green gardens with a swimming pool.  Host your wedding or special event at this perfect location.

tuscany travel on a budget

B&B Country House Poggio del Drago near Arezzo

See for yourself! Poggio del Drago, surrounded by the beauty of Tuscany between Florence, Arezzo & Siena features 5 B&B rooms with an abundant breakfast. You will find many extras like AC & WiFI as well as green gardens, private pool & excellent service.

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Exploring the beauty of tuscany: a complete travel guide.

Photo of author

By Zuzana Paar

| Updated: August 30, 2023

Discover the allure of Tuscany, Italy, by embarking on an unforgettable journey through its captivating landscapes, rich culture and exquisite cuisine. This complete travel guide will lead you through the heart of Tuscany’s beauty, offering insights, tips and must-visit destinations for an enriching adventure.

A view of a vineyard in Tuscany.

Nestled in the heart of Italy, Tuscany beckons travelers with its ageless charm and enchanting allure. From rolling vineyards and historic towns to world-renowned art, Tuscany offers a truly immersive experience that captures the essence of Italy’s finest offerings. In this comprehensive travel guide, explore the timeless beauty of Tuscany, providing you with all the insights you need to craft a remarkable Tuscan journey.

Before delving into the heart of Italy, there are a few of the remarkable aspects that make this region truly exceptional.

The best vineyards and wine tours in Tuscany

Tuscany’s fertile landscapes are a wine lover’s paradise. The region boasts some of the world’s finest vineyards and wineries, where you can savor robust Chiantis, elegant Brunello di Montalcino and crisp Vernaccias. Embark on wine tours that wind through sun-kissed vines, offering tastings that reveal the secrets of Tuscany’s wine-making traditions. Immerse yourself in the art of wine appreciation and learn about the intricate relationship between Tuscany’s terroir and its celebrated vintages.

A wine cellar with wooden barrels in front of a waterfall.

The secrets of its enchanting villages

Beyond the renowned cities, Tuscany’s hidden gems lie in its enchanting villages. Wander through the cobbled streets of Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its pecorino cheese. Explore the medieval magic of Montepulciano and the artistic heritage of Cortona. Each village unveils a unique story waiting to be discovered. Experience the warmth of local hospitality, engage with artisans and witness daily life in these time-honored havens.

A gourmet’s guide to food, wine and delights in Florence

Florence, the artistic heart of Tuscany, is not only a visual masterpiece but also a culinary haven. Delight in Tuscan cuisine that marries simplicity with rich flavors. Savor dishes like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, tomato mozzarella chicken and lampredotto from street stalls. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine and embrace the gourmet indulgence that Florence offers. From traditional osterias to modern bistros, Florence’s culinary scene is a tantalizing blend of tradition and innovation.

“Everything you’ve heard, seen or read about Tuscany is true. From the rolling scenic hills to the classic villas and, of course, the food, it’s one of my favorite areas to visit in Italy. A trip is not complete without tasting copious amounts of pecorino, prosciutto and my favorite, balsamic vinegar at one of the many small family-run operations in the region.” — Gina Matsoukas, Running to the Kitchen

Tuscany on a budget: Affordable travel tips and tricks

You don’t need a princely budget to explore Tuscany’s wonders. From free art in Florence’s streets to budget-friendly trattorias serving authentic dishes, Tuscany welcomes frugal travelers with open arms. Discover pocket-friendly accommodations, plan visits during shoulder seasons and immerse yourself in the region’s beauty without breaking the bank. Enjoy a picnic amidst vineyards, participate in local festivals and unearth the charm of Tuscany in one of the budget-friendly destinations that suit your style.

Captivating landscapes: Where beauty knows no bounds

Tuscany’s landscapes are a canvas of breathtaking beauty. Imagine endless vineyards stretching across rolling hills, picturesque olive groves and medieval villages perched atop scenic vistas. From the iconic countryside of Val d’Orcia to the rustic charm of Chianti, Tuscany offers an idyllic setting for leisurely strolls, cycling adventures and awe-inspiring photography.

A vineyard in Tuscany on a cloudy day.

Art and culture: The renaissance reimagined

Florence, Tuscany’s crown jewel, is a living testament to the Renaissance era. The city’s magnificent art and architecture, including the iconic Florence Cathedral and Uffizi Gallery , showcase the genius of masters like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. Wander through narrow streets, uncovering artisan workshops and centuries-old traditions that continue to thrive.

Culinary delights: Tasting Tuscan perfection

Tuscany’s gastronomy is a celebration of flavors and traditions. Indulge in sumptuous dishes like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro and the world-famous bistecca alla fiorentina. Local wineries offer tastings of renowned Chianti and Brunello wines, allowing you to savor the region’s rich terroir and craftsmanship.

Charming towns and villages: Where time stands still

Tuscany’s towns and villages exude a captivating charm that transports you to a bygone era. Explore the medieval streets of Siena, where the Palio di Siena horse race enlivens the city each summer. Discover the towered town of San Gimignano, known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views. Each village has its unique story to tell.

Nature’s retreat: Tuscany’s coastal beauty

Beyond its rustic interiors, Tuscany boasts a coastline of unparalleled beauty. The Tyrrhenian Sea offers pristine beaches, charming seaside towns like Viareggio and the picturesque Cinque Terre — a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration by the azure waters.

Planning your Tuscan adventure: Tips and recommendations

  • Best time to visit: Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
  • Getting around: Rent a car for flexibility, especially when exploring the countryside.
  • Accommodation: Choose from luxury villas, boutique hotels or agriturismos (farm stays) for an authentic experience.
  • Local etiquette: Embrace the Italian way of life, enjoying leisurely meals with homemade noodles or Italian breadsticks and engaging with locals.
  • Language: While Italian is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

A view of Tuscany from the top of a hill.

Magic of Tuscany

As you venture through Tuscany’s timeless beauty, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of art, history and natural splendor. From the iconic city of Florence to the tranquil countryside, Tuscany offers an unforgettable escape that resonates with every traveler.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Tuscany’s enchanting landscapes, captivating art and delectable cuisine. This complete travel guide equips you with the insights needed to curate an exceptional Tuscan adventure. Explore the charm of Tuscany and let its timeless beauty leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Zuzana is the creative force behind her websites Lowcarb-nocarb and Best Clean Eating. As a content creator, food recipe developer, blogger and photographer, Zuzana brings diverse skills to the table with a dedication to sharing delicious, healthy recipes and helpful tips with the readers. Get her Best Keto Recipes Book for free.

Low-Carb Meals With No Funny Ingredients & That Actually Taste Good!

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Siena in Tuscany on a Budget

Siena in Tuscany on a Budget. Siena has one of the most beautiful, most complete medieval cityscapes in Europe, and it’s a surprisingly inexpensive place to stay, whether you intend to stick to the city or use it as a base to explore some of the Tuscan hill towns nearby. Here are our tips to help you visit Siena on a budget.

Siena has one of the most beautiful, most complete medieval cityscapes in Europe, and it’s a surprisingly inexpensive place to stay, whether you intend to stick to the city or use it as a base to explore some of the Tuscan hill towns nearby. Here are our tips to help you visit Siena on a budget.

There are two main sights in Siena which you absolutely must see. The first is the Piazza del Campo, a sloping shell-shaped square beneath the grand Palazzo Pubblico and the tall, slender Torre del Mangia, which offers amazing views over the city.

The other is the Duomo, or Cathedral, black-and-white-striped outside and inside. The interior is breathtaking, with its blue vaulted roof with gold stars, and the remarkable floor panels decorated with Biblical scenes.

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Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:

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Siena in Tuscany on a Budget

Table of Contents

Accommodation in Siena

True budget accommodation has always been pretty scarce in Siena, and this has been the case since I first visited the city in the 1990s.

There is just one one-star hotel near the centre, the Albergo Tre Donzelle, which has a great location in the old city, and the city’s youth hostel, which is on the northern outskirts.

You get far more options when you start looking at mid-range, three-star accommodation, in the €60-70 price bracket.

The Hotel Alma Domus is on the north side of the city, in a converted medieval wool works. Singles there work out as little as €40 a night, with rooms with the best views in the €80-90 region.

These views of the Duomo sitting on the hilltop above the old city are stupendous, and get better the higher you go.

Siena in Tuscany on a Budget

Eating Out in Siena

Wherever you go in Italy, the same rule applies. Eating on a main square like Piazza del Campo is great but comes with a premium. But as soon as you wander off into the backstreets, the prices plummet.

There is a cluster of restaurants close to the House of St Catherine of Siena, including the atmospheric Osteria La Chiacchera, and another concentration of places to eat along and around Via del Porrione, which is close to the University.

You can always improvise by calling in at an alimentari, or deli, and ask them to make you a panino, or sandwich, with whatever ingredients they have on display.

Siena in Tuscany on a Budget

Sightseeing for free in Siena

Along with the Piazza del Campo and the Duomo, the other star attraction is the city of Siena itself, a fully intact medieval cityscape full of buildings from the 12 th to 14 th centuries.

Although it’s small and compact, you could still wander the core of the city for days, looking around its labyrinth of lanes and alleyways.

Some would call it an open-air museum. But it’s more than that. And the pleasure of exploring this magnificent city is free.

Siena in Tuscany on a Budget

Walk – You Have To

Much of hilly Siena consists of narrow backstreets and staircases, and the old city is largely impenetrable to modern public transport. So no costs incurred there.  You have to walk. You get fit and save money at the same time.

A Budget Base for Exploring Tuscany

Siena is located in southern Tuscany, and is the ideal base for exploring the famous Tuscan countryside of hills, olive groves, farmhouses and cypress trees, and the many Tuscan hill towns.

As well as being relatively inexpensive, it’s the best place in the region to hire a car.

It’s possible to get to some of the hill towns (Monteriggioni, San Gimignano and Montalcino) and back in a day on the bus, but travelling like this you’ll be limited to seeing one town per day.

If you can drive, your options are much more flexible. This way you can get to see much more, including the Crete Senesi hills to the south of the city, the Val d’Orcia and other hill towns including Montepulciano.

Siena in Tuscany on a Budget

Avoid Peak Times

Prices always rise for peak season, and in Siena they spike dramatically for the Palio, a horse race around the Piazza del Campo on July 2 nd and August 16 th each year.

Getting to see the races themselves can be challenging and costly, but there is a way to get a taste of the action – dress rehearsal rides are usually held in the run-up to the races, and you can watch for free.

Samantha King

Found & Travel Expert

Sam, a globally seasoned traveler with a footprint across four continents and over 49 countries, is a recognized authority in travel planning. Her passion for exploration has positioned her as a leading voice in the travel community.

Travelling King offering readers insider tips and expert knowledge. Today, it's a go-to resource for thousands, providing tailor-made itineraries, tour and hotel guides, ensuring travelers enjoy seamless, memorable trips.

Sam's engaging perspective on global exploration keeps her at the forefront of travel enthusiasm. While she cherishes her adventures, returning to Adelaide and her beloved dog Odin remains a special joy.

Sam's expertise includes: - Luxury Travel: Providing insights into upscale travel experiences. - Fast Travel: Offering strategies for maximizing visits to multiple destinations in limited time. - Hotels and Destination Guides: Crafting comprehensive guides for accommodations and attractions.

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Italy Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 17, 2023

A beautiful view overlooking the city of Florence, Italy, with its stunning red roofs and mountains in the background

Italy is one of Europe’s most iconic and popular destinations. Home to incredible food, fabulous wine, tons of ancient ruins, undying romance, and picturesque landscapes, it should come as no surprise that this is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world.

I’ve been visiting since 2006 and I never tire of it.

The vineyards in Tuscany, history in Florence , ancient streets of Rome , gorgeous views and hills Cinque Terre , romantic canals in Venice — I love it all.

Italy is best experienced slowly so pace yourself. Soak in the atmosphere and way of life as you explore. Italians move slowly and enjoy la dolce vita and so should you! Relax, take in the scenery, enjoy a cappuccino or a glass of wine. The slower you go, the better you’ll be able to appreciate the charms and nuance of this iconic southern European gem.

This travel guide to Italy can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time here.

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Italy

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in italy.

View over colorful town in the Cinque Terre along the coast in Italy.

1. Explore Venice

While crowded, Venice is an astounding place to visit. I love the city’s iconic architecture and picturesque canals. Don’t miss the Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, the Basilica San Marco, and the city’s countless museums. Moreover, be sure to head to the old Jewish Ghetto for hip bars and cheap drinks (the English word ghetto comes from this area of Venice). Venice is also home to several world-class festivals. In late winter, the epic Carnival takes place here and, in August, the prestigious Venice Film Festival takes over the nearby island of Lido. If you have time, be sure to explore the neighboring islands on a day tour. They are charming in their own right.

2. Wander Rome

Rome has so much to see and do that you’ll need to make several trips to even scratch the surface. Besides obvious highlights like the Colosseum, Forum, Palatine Hill, and Trevi Fountain, make sure you explore the Trastevere neighborhood. It’s my favorite area in Rome and feels almost like a village inside a big city. Trastevere offers delicious food, funky bars, and ancient winding streets. I love the family pizzerias and cafes here for people-watching and the gelato. Vatican City, the smallest independent city-state in the world, is nestled within the heart of Rome and is home to the Pope, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and many fantastic museums. You can fill an endless amount of time here so don’t try to rush your visit!

3. Tour Pompeii

Located a 20-40-minute train ride from Naples , Pompeii is an ancient city that was destroyed by a volcano, preserving it in a blanket of ash still frozen in time. Walk around the Roman city as it stood the day that Mount Vesuvius exploded in 79 CE, moving in and out of homes, villas, baths, and businesses where pots and vases still lay. What really struck me was entering the houses and seeing that the fountains and most of the beautiful frescoes are still intact. Admission is 16 EUR while a guided tour with a professional archeologist is 50 EUR. It’s a huge site and will take a full day to visit in depth.

4. Hike the Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre consists of five colorful coastal villages on the west coast of Italy, backed by steep vineyards and mountains. These small towns are by no means undiscovered by tourists but still absolutely beautiful and teeming with great shops and cafes. Each village has its own unique charm and personality so be sure to visit all of them. I absolutely love the fun hikes in the stunning hills high above the sea between the villages that range in difficulty. The Cinque Terre express train makes it super easy to pop around to the different villages if you don’t want to hike between the towns. Trail #7 is my favorite.

5. Relax on the Amalfi Coast

Other things to see and do in italy, 1. party at the venice carnival.

Carnival is ten days of masquerade madness every February leading up to Mardi Gras. The tradition goes back centuries, starting in the 12th century and reaching the height of popularity in the 18th century. Today, it’s one of the biggest festivals in Italy, with millions of people attending every year. The iconic and diverse masks are a central part of the festivities and every year there is a contest for the most beautiful mask. If you want to splash out, you can even attend a traditional masquerade ball! Just be sure to book your accommodation early as the city fills up months in advance.

2. Explore Milan

Milan is the fashion capital of Italy. Spend some time taking in the glamor but don’t spend more than a day or two here unless you’re looking to splash out. While you’re here, don’t miss the beautiful Milan Cathedral, which boasts 3,500 statues, 135 spires, and five bronze doors. Sforzesco Castle, a 15th-century castle that houses Michelangelo’s last sculpture, is also worth a visit. There’s also Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper , located inside Santa Maria delle Grazie church (which is itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site) as well as Leonardo’s Horse, one of the largest equine statues in the world. To get away from the crowds, spend some time relaxing in Parco Sempione, Milan’s most famous city park. It’s a vast oasis of green space and perfect for a picnic when the weather is nice.

3. See the Leaning Tower in Pisa

The entire city of Pisa is focused on taking photos of this famed tower. Started in 1173 and finished in 1399, it’s the bell tower of Pisa’s cathedral, located next door. Although it was meant to be perfectly vertical, the tower started leaning during construction due to the weight of the building on an unstable foundation. Admission to the top is 20 EUR or 27 EUR for a ticket that includes all the monuments in the complex. DiscoveryPisa runs a guided tour of all three sites for 30 EUR if you want a more in-depth experience.

4. Visit Siena

Everyone who visits Siena walks away loving it. Located in Tuscany, it’s one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Italy and boasts a labyrinth of lanes gathered around the arena of Piazza del Campo. Spend a few days admiring this charming city and exploring one of Italy’s most popular and famous regions. The main draw to the city is the stunning Siena Cathedral, which was constructed with white and black marble and is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the country (the interior is massive and ornately decorated and lined by huge columns). Be sure to also visit the Torre del Mangia, a narrow 14th-century tower that offers stunning views of the area, as well as the 14th-century Fonte Gaia fountain, which is decorated by centuries-old marble panels.

5. Wander Naples

Naples , made famous as the birthplace of pizza, is a gritty city home to a wealth of historical treasures. There’s the medieval Naples Cathedral, the 18th-century Villa Comunale Park, and nearby Naples , Pompeii , one of the most amazing and important sites to visit in the country. The Archaeological Museum of Naples is also worth a visit, and if you enjoy hiking you can climb up the iconic Mount Vesuvius. Naples is the gateway to the south so you’re very likely to come here if you’re crisscrossing the country. Its location near Pompeii, Capri, and Sorrento makes it the perfect starting point for exploring the region. Best of all, it’s a foodie city like no other; I ate my weight in pizza during my visit!

6. Explore Florence

There’s no real need to explain why one should visit Florence — the city speaks for itself. Everything people say about it is true: great food, amazing museums, ancient buildings, small streets, awesome gelato. The city has it all. Be sure to visit The Uffizi, which holds the world’s most important collection of Renaissance art (including the The Birth of Venus and La Primavera by Botticelli, Bacchus by Caravaggio, and Doni Tondo by Michelangelo). The famous David statue is also in Florence, housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia. It’s one of the most impressive sculptures in the world and at 5.17 meters (17 feet) tall, it’s a lot bigger and more detailed than you think it would be! While here, make sure you take a few wine tours throughout the region to get a feel for the verdant countryside.

7. Drive around “the Heel”

Few travelers ever visit the southern heel of the Italian “boot.” But, if you have time, it’s worth the trip. This is where most of the fruits and vegetables in Italy come from so a trip down here will give you the best glimpse into rustic Italian life far from the maddening crowds of Rome and Italy’s other tourist hotspots. Don’t miss the picturesque Polignano a Mare, with its rugged cliffs and white-washed houses. Gallipoli, with its labyrinth of narrow lanes and historic port, is also worth visiting. There are tons of amazing beaches in this part of the country too, including Marina di Pescoluse (Salento), Cala Porto (Polignano a Mare), and Torre Guaceto (Brindisi).

8. Eat your way around Sicily

There’s Italian culture and then there’s Sicily. Sicily has its own unique cooking style, traditions, and customs. It’s unlike the rest of Italy. Be sure to spend some time in Taormina and Palermo (the capital of Sicily). The UNESCO Valley of the Temples is also in Sicily, a national park home to incredible Greek ruins that are over 2,000 years old. Don’t miss the stunning Mount Etna , an active volcano that you can ski on it in the winter or take a tour of the top in the summer.

9. Stroll through Sorrento

Sorrento is a small city in southwestern Italy surrounded by a dreamy landscape of rolling hills, deep valleys, and the Lattari Mountains. There’s not a lot to do in the town itself but Sorrento makes an ideal starting point for numerous excursions to nearby cities and islands around the famous Amalfi Coast, like Capri and Ischia. I especially love driving along the winding coastal roads overlooking the sea. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Blue Grotto .

10. Attend Settimana Santa (Holy Week)

This is the last week of Lent, known as Holy Week. During this time, there are several processions throughout Italy, drawing crowds of thousands. Throughout the week, there are various gatherings in Puglia, Abruzzo, and Sicily but the major event occurs on Easter Sunday and is led by the Pope himself. It’s an amazing time to visit, but expect huge crowds and for accommodation to sell out months in advance.

11. Visit Alberobello

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an interesting and picturesque little town just south of Bari (a port city on the Adriatic Sea) known for its unusual white cone-shaped houses (they’re super peculiar). It’s well worth a visit between the months of November and April (to avoid the flocks of tourists) as there are a couple of museums to peruse, in addition to some great restaurants, bars, and markets.

12. Tour the Vatican Museums

Founded in the early 16th century, it is a complex of museums spanning over 12 acres. There are so many priceless highlights, including Michelangelo’s works in the Sistine Chapel. You could easily spend hours here. Consider getting a guide to make the museum come to life. Admission is 17 EUR and skip-the-line guided tours with Get Your Guide cost 50 EUR. For a more unique experience, check out the

13. See Chiesa di Sant’Efisio

When you find yourself in Cagliari on Sardinia, wander over to the Stampace quarter to see this church. Dedicated to the patron Saint Ephisius, this is the most important church in the city. The original building dates to the 13th century, though it was rebuilt and expanded in the 16th century and then again in the 18th century, this time in the Baroque style. Admission is free.

14. Take a cooking class

Italy is a dream destination for foodies and the best way to learn about this amazing cuisine is to take a cooking class . You’ll get to visit a local market, learn about the history of some of the country’s best dishes, and then learn how to make them yourself so you can impress friends and family back home. You can find cooking classes all over the country. They are very common. Prices vary depending on what city you take a class in, but most cost at least 70 EUR and last a few hours.

15. Take a walking tour

Walks of Italy offers incredible, detailed tours all around the country. They are my favorite tour company in the country. And they are relatively inexpensive and you definitely get your money’s worth. If you are big into history, culture, or architecture these tours are for you. You’ll walk away with a much richer understanding of the country. Don’t miss them.

For information on specific cities in Italy, check out these city guides:

  • Cinque Terre Travel Guide
  • Florence Travel Guide
  • Milan Travel Guide
  • Naples Travel Guide
  • Pisa Travel Guide
  • Rome Travel Guide
  • Sorrento Travel Guide
  • Venice Travel Guide

Italy Travel Costs

Colorful buildings along the canal in Burano, an island near Venice, Italy.

Accommodation – Hostel dorms average 27-40 EUR per night for rooms with 6-8 beds. Private rooms are usually between 55-100 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities and include breakfast. During the summer months, expect prices to double. In Rome and Florence, prices throughout the year are about 20% higher than anywhere else.

For those traveling with a tent, campgrounds are available around the country, usually costing between 15-30 EUR per night for a basic plot for two people.

A night in a two-star budget hotel ranges between 70-125 EUR per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, AC, and occasionally free breakfast. Prices are on the higher end in cities like Rome and Venice and also double during the summer.

On Airbnb, private rooms start around 45-90 EUR, while entire apartments usually start around 100-150 EUR. Expect prices on the higher end in hotspots like Rome and Venice. Prices can also double (or triple) when not booked in advance. Additionally, expect even higher prices in the busy summer months.

Food – Italian cuisine is beloved around the world, though every region in Italy offers its own distinct flavor. Tomatoes, pasta, olives, and olive oil form the backbone of most dishes, with meat, fish and various cheeses rounding out the menu. Gelato and pizza, of course, are also super popular. Some traditional dishes include bigoli in salsa (pasta in anchovy sauce), risotto al nero di seppia (risotto with cuttlefish ink), gnocchi alla Sorrentina (potato gnocchi), cassoeula (a meat and cabbage stew), and tagliatelle funghi porcini e tartufo (pasta with mushrooms and truffles).

A casual restaurant meal of pizza or pasta usually costs 10-20 EUR. In tourist hot spots, add 5-10 EUR to that.

Quick eats like pizza by the slice, paninis, and light snacks cost between 3-8 EUR. Snacks like croissants are less than 2 EUR.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 8-10 EUR for a combo meal while Chinese, Thai, or Indian food is 10-12 EUR for a main dish. Dessert is usually around 4-8 EUR for something like tiramisu.

Your average restaurant meal costs around 30 EUR with a drink. Most main dishes cost around 15-20 EUR while a pizza is around 10-15 EUR. For higher-end meals, expect to spend about 70 EUR for a three-course meal with a drink.

Beer costs around 4-5 EUR while a glass of wine costs 4-8 EUR. For non-alcoholic drinks, a latte or cappuccino is around 1.50 EUR and bottled water is 1 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own groceries, expect to spend 50-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Italy Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Italy, my suggested budget is 60 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation to get around, and sticking to mostly free activities like hiking, free walking tours, and the beaches. If you plan on drinking a lot, add at least 15 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 140 EUR per day, you can stay in an Airbnb or budget hotel, eat out for a couple of meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like touring the Colosseum or exploring Pompeii.

On an upscale budget of 255 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a car, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This isn’t a real luxury budget but it’s a budget that affords you the ability to do anything you want. If you want real luxury, you’ll need to read a different blog for that!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). I just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Italy Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It’s very easy to break the bank in Italy, owing to all the historic sites, expensive accommodation, and delicious but pricey restaurants. After all, Italy is one of the most expensive Eurozone countries. You’re going to be spending a lot on a visit here. However, there are still lots of ways to reduce your expenses. Here are some tips to help you save money in Italy:

  • Skip the bread – Many restaurants offer you bread when you sit down — but they don’t mention that it’s not free. If you’re on a budget, decline the bread and save a few Euros each dining experience.
  • Picnic – Head to the store or one of the many markets in the country and grab food for a picnic. It’s cheaper than eating out and you can lounge in one of the many parks to watch the day go by. Food markets are a good place to try things, get fresh cheese and cold cuts, pasta, and snacks like ‘arancini,’ a super-filling rice ball stuffed with meat or cheese.
  • Drink the tap water – When out at a restaurant, ask for tap water or you will automatically get expensive bottled water included on your bill. Since the tap water is safe to drink, bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
  • Buy wine at the store – You can buy a great bottle of wine for 6-10 EUR at the store. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar. Take it outdoors and sit around and enjoy the day/evening or skip expensive nightlife and go out for a long dinner and just drink it at the hostel. Just make sure you have a travel corkscrew on you if you’re going to sit outside somewhere!
  • Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the country for cheap. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 6 EUR you really can’t complain! (And it’s cheaper than the train.) Taking the bus in town inside big cities instead of taking taxis everywhere or renting a car will save you lots of money.
  • Take a free walking tour – Most cities in Italy offer free walking tours that cover all the main highlights. It’s the best budget-friendly way to explore and also a great way to meet other travelers if you’re alone. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
  • Stay with a local – Accommodation is expensive in Italy, even in the hostels. Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds or couches for free. It’s the best way to save money and meet people. Just be sure to send your requests early (especially in the summer). Also, it’s a good idea to research the area you’re staying in first so you’re not so far away from the city center (or city!) that you need to spend a lot of time/money getting into town to see the sites.
  • Get a city tourist card – Many tourism offices offer tourist cards that provide free or discounted entry to the main attractions. Some even include restaurant discounts and free transportation. If you plan on sightseeing a lot, these cards can cut your costs drastically. Check the local tourism board in each city for info when you arrive.
  • Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities. I used this service and not only did I save money, I got to meet interesting people and learn more about life in Italy. This is a good option to book a few days in advance. Just make sure to pick someone who has good ratings because newer drivers can have a tendency to be unreliable or cancel at the last minute.

Where to Stay in Italy

There’s a lot of hostels and hotels in Italy to choose from. To help you save money on accommodation, here’s a list of my recommended hostels and budget hotels in Italy:

  • Loly Boutique Hotel (Rome)
  • The Beehive (Rome)
  • Hotel Montecarlo (Venice)
  • Generator (Venice)
  • Hostel of the Sun (Naples)
  • Ulisse Deluxe (Sorrento)
  • Hotel Bologna (Pisa)
  • Hostel Pisa Tower (Pisa)

How to Get Around Italy

High speed train in Italy.

Public transportation – Public transportation is available in all the major cities in Italy (many of which have comprehensive metro systems). Tickets usually cost between 1-2 EUR for a single journey. Some cities also have day passes that offer unlimited travel. In Rome, you can purchase a one-day pass for unlimited travel for 7 EUR. A one-week pass costs 24 EUR, for example. While public transportation is generally reliable, traffic can be a nightmare — especially in Rome.

Train – The best way to get around Italy is via their extensive train network. Prices are affordable too, with most trips costing just 10-30 EUR. Rome to Florence takes just 90 minutes (on the fast train) with tickets starting at 20 EUR. Rome to Venice takes around 4 hours with tickets starting around 30 EUR. Rome to Naples is just over one hour and costs around 20 EUR.

Italo and Trenitalia are the two main rail systems. Tickets on Trenitalia are often a standard price, while Italo’s ticket prices fluctuate more widely. It’s worth it to check both.

Bus – The bus is slower than the train but cheaper, with prices on FlixBus starting as low as 6 EUR. This isn’t the most convenient or fastest way to travel, but the buses are comfortable and good for short and medium journeys. Most buses come with outlets and free Wi-Fi too.

The 4-hour trip from Rome to Florence costs around 7-15 EUR, while a longer trip like Venice to Naples takes 10-15 hours and costs just 20-32 EUR.

Flying – If you’re pressed for time and are looking to jump from one city to the next, a budget airline might be the way to go. Prices can be incredibly low — just 20-100 EUR round trip on airlines like Ryanair.

That said, when you factor in the time spent at airports, you’re likely not going to save much time. Also, keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights and you usually need to print your boarding pass out too (or pay a fee).

Ferry – If you want to visit some of Italy’s amazing islands, you’ll have to book a ferry. Ferries are frequent and you don’t need to book too far in advance, but during peak season it’s a good idea to book at least a few weeks ahead. You can use FerryHopper to find routes and prices. The popular one-hour ferry from Naples to Capri starts from 25 EUR.

Car rental – Car rentals are generally quite affordable here, usually starting around 25-35 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Just make sure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as it’s required before you rent a car. Also, keep in mind that Italian drivers can be on the aggressive side so drive cautiously. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Italy

There’s no wrong time to visit Italy. Historically, the peak season has been July and August, but post-COVID cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are busy pretty much year round. Temperatures can soar as high as 36°C (98°F) during the summer, and popular cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence experience a huge influx of visitors. I’d try to avoid visiting in the summer if you can as it’s just too crowded, too hot, and prices increase during this time as well.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Italy is during the shoulder season (March-May and September-October). It’s still warm but the crowds have thinned and prices are lower. This is a particularly great time to hang out in the Mediterranean. Expect daily highs around 22°C (72°F).

Winter is from November to February. It gets cold, and tourist crowds thin out considerably. Temperatures vary quite a bit from north to south, with it sometimes dropping to 2°C (36°F) in Milan and 4°C (39°F) in Rome. On the other hand, November to December is fantastic — you’ll find Christmas markets and festivals galore!

How to Stay Safe in Italy

Italy is a safe country to travel as violent crime against tourists is very rare. However, scams and pickpocketing are common, especially around high-traffic tourist sites in places like Rome and Venice. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight on public transportation and when out and about. The biggest things to watch out for are pickpockets on public transportation and in crowds. Don’t leave your bag open or put your mobile phone in loose jacket pockets on the tram or subway.

Be wary of people selling discounted tickets on the street. Chances are they are fake so always buy tickets from reputable sellers only. If you take a taxi somewhere, make sure the driver uses the meter so you don’t get ripped off.

If you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about other common travel scams to avoid here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe in Italy, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Catcalling is not uncommon in Italy. Also, on public transport be mindful of groping on public transport. For specific tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the country as they will have better advice for you.

If you rent a car, make sure you drive carefully and also have extra insurance. The roads in much of the country are very winding and narrow and drivers here are on the aggressive side.

Natural disasters here are uncommon, but since there are several active volcanoes in the country they can occur. Venice is also prone to flooding, so always be mindful of the weather while you’re here and heed any warnings or advisories.

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Italy Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
  • Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
  • FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
  • Walks of Italy – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Italy.
  • BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Italy Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Italy and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hotels in Rome

The 8 Best Hotels in Rome

The Best Walking Tours in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Venice

The Best Walking Tours in Venice

The 4 Best Hostels in Florence Worth Staying At

The 4 Best Hostels in Florence Worth Staying At

Food Tour  Review: My Experience Eating in Bologna

Food Tour Review: My Experience Eating in Bologna

The 24 Best Things to Do in Rome

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Home » Europe » Italy » Where to Stay in Tuscany The BEST Spots in 2024

Where to Stay in Tuscany The BEST Spots in 2024

One of the most popular destinations in the world, Tuscany really needs no introduction. It comes with rolling hills, historic vineyards, and a thriving culinary scene. Being the art capital of the world and containing buildings dating back centuries, it is a must-visit destination for culture vultures and history buffs alike. If you only have time for one destination in Italy, Tuscany offers a little bit of everything that makes the country a top destination year after year.

Tuscany is also quite vast, and going beyond the largest city, it can be tricky to prioritize your time. Each town offers something completely different from the last, so you’ll need to have a good sense of what you want out of your trip before you go. A little bit of research goes a long way to planning the perfect itinerary for Tuscany.

Luckily for you, we’ve done some of this research for you and compiled it into this handy guide. We’ve combined our personal experience with hints and tips from locals and travel experts to bring you the lowdown on the eight best places to stay in Tuscany. Whether you’re looking for culinary, historic, or creative delights, we’ve got you covered.

Florence Tuscany

The sparkling capital of Tuscany, Florence is a must-visit destination for anyone heading to the region. Considered the Renaissance capital of Europe, this is where you will find some of the most famous art pieces in the world.

Pisa Tuscany

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is an enduring symbol of Italy across the world, making the city of Pisa a must-visit destination for anyone heading to the country for the first time. Campo dei Miracoli is also home to an impressive Duomo and Monastery, with a small art gallery inside. Even if you don’t choose to stay here, we recommend you pass by.

San Gimignano Tuscany

San Gimignano

While often visited as part of a day trip, San Gimignano has an infectious charm that makes it well worth choosing as a base. The romantic back streets and historic façades make this the perfect destination for couples heading to Tuscany.

Lucca Tuscany

Dating back to the Etruscan era, Lucca is among the oldest cities in the world. While it has retained some of its ancient architecture, the gothic buildings that can be seen across the city make it one of the best travel destinations in Italy.

Siena Tuscany

Tuscany has a reputation as one of the most expensive destinations in Italy – and there’s really no escaping how much higher prices are when compared to the south. That being said, Siena has some excellent budget-friendly accommodation and dining options. You’ll get to enjoy a little bit more for your money staying here – and it’s well connected to Florence.

Arezzo Tuscany

When it comes to the most unique place to stay in Tuscany, everywhere mentioned in this guide would be able to take the crown for one reason or another. What truly makes Arezzo stand out is its place as a major trading centre of industry, agriculture and gold.

Cortona Tuscany

Like basically everywhere else in Italy, Tuscany is a massively diverse food region, and you’re sure to sample delights wherever you go. What makes Cortona stand out is all of the cooking classes on offer.

Montepulciano Tuscany

Montepulciano

Luxury travellers take note – Montepulciano is one of the most exclusive destinations in Tuscany. Accommodation and dining here certainly costs a pretty penny, but not without good reason. Montepulciano is the most prolific wine region in Tuscany, with more vineyards than you can manage in a single trip.

Map of Where to Stay in Tuscany

Map of Tuscany

Florence – Overall Best Place to Stay in Tuscany

The sparkling capital of Tuscany, Florence is a must-visit destination for anyone heading to the region. Considered the Renaissance capital of Europe, this is where you will find some of the most famous art pieces in the world. Its buildings alone are awe-inspiring in their creativity, but behind their walls, you will find the likes of Da Vinci, Boticelli and Michelangelo.

Florence Tuscany

It’s also the home of the modern Italian language and opera. Music can be heard everywhere you go throughout the day, with an eclectic variety of acts available in concerts almost every evening. Florence has been a city of innovation for centuries, and it shows no signs of stopping thanks to the thousands of art students that call the city home.

As the largest city, it is also the best-connected destination in Tuscany, which makes staying in Florence a breeze. If you want to easily get around and don’t have a car, Florence offers fast train connections and even some great bus services for those on a tight budget. It has a reputation as being quite expensive, but there’s something for all budgets within the city limits.

Best Places to Stay in Florence

North of the Arno River is where you will find the best-known attractions, including the Duomo and most art galleries. South of the river, you will find some more budget-friendly options, as well as an alternative vibe. Florence has a comprehensive transport network, so you can also opt to head further out to save some more cash. That being said, you can always find vacation rentals in Florence that are close to the city centre.

Archi Rossi Hostel Tuscany

Best Airbnb in Florence: Duomo View

Airbnb Plus is a range of properties handpicked for their stylish interiors, unbeatable locations, and above-and-beyond guest service. This gorgeous apartment in a traditional building is well worth splurging on for an unforgettable stay in Florence. There is a small balcony with views over the Duomo – perfect for a peaceful breakfast in the morning. The interiors are modern, while still paying homage to the historic nature of the building. And since it’s one of the most stunning Airbnbs in Florence , you’ll get the best possible value for your money.

Best Hostel in Florence: Archi Rossi Hostel

More interested in visiting Florence on a budget? It’s one of the most expensive cities in Italy, but thanks to Archi Rossi, you won’t need to break the bank. Alongside favourable room rates, it also has outstanding guest reviews thanks to the wide social spaces and great location. It is only a two-minute walk from S.M. Novella Train Station – perfect for those including Florence as part of a larger trip.

Best Hotel in Florence: Hotel Lungarno

Florence is the perfect destination for those looking to splurge a little, so why not opt for this five-star hotel right in the heart of the city? It’s located on the banks of the Arno river, with stunning views of Ponte Vecchio from the restaurant terrace. Inside the hotel, you will find classic art pieces – including authentic Picasso and Cocteau paintings. They have a casual lounge bar and a Michelin starred restaurant.

Pisa – Best Place to Stay in Tuscany For Families

Pisa Tuscany

For families, Pisa has a more laid-back atmosphere than Florence, but still has great train connections to the city. It’s also well connected to nearby Lucca and has some interesting cultural sights of its own. The Leaning Tower is actually outside of the city centre, and the area surrounding the train station feels like a completely different place.

Visiting from elsewhere in Europe? Pisa Airport has some great budget flights, making it a popular gateway to Tuscany from across the continent. The bus connections to neighbouring countries are also quick and easy. Despite being home to a major landmark, Pisa is an excellent option for those looking to save some cash.

Best Places to Stay In Pisa

Pisa can be split into two major areas – the City Centre, where you will find the train station, and the area around Campo dei Miracoli. Both are only a 20-30 minute walk apart along a major shopping street, so we don’t really have a preference. That being said, families might prefer the pedestrianised streets near the Leaning Tower.

Historical Centre Tuscany

Best Airbnb in Pisa: Historical Centre

This apartment has a rustic and moody charm that will make you sad to leave when your trip is over. Sleeping up to four guests across two bedrooms, this is ideal for small to medium-sized families heading to Tuscany. The train station and Leaning Tower of Pisa are only a short walk away. Traffic is limited in the neighbourhood, so you’ll also get to enjoy some peace and quiet.

Best Hostel in Pisa: Helvetia Pisa Tower

This is the closest hostel to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, giving guests unbeatable access to the main attractions in the city. The train station is only a short walk away, as well as buses to the Tuscan coast. We love the cute little courtyard where you can bask under the Tuscan sun and mingle with other guests.

Best Hotel in Pisa: B&B Pisa Tower

Another gorgeous property close to the main attractions, you can actually see the Leaning Tower of Pisa from your window in some of the rooms in this B&B! They offer family rooms that can sleep up to four, as well as double rooms if you need to add on some extra space. Bicycle rental is available for all guests, and a decadent Italian style breakfast is offered every morning.

B&B Pisa Tower is one of our favourites in Tuscany but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

San Gimignano – Most Romantic Place to Stay in Tuscany for Couples

While often visited as part of a day trip, San Gimignano has an infectious charm that makes it well worth choosing as a base. The romantic back streets and historic façades make this the perfect destination for couples heading to Tuscany. Rising out of the Tuscan hills, there are also more secluded destinations nearby where you can enjoy a truly rustic experience.

San Gimignano Tuscany

It seems like a sleepy town during the day, but in the evenings, San Gimignano really bursts into life. Trattorias are packed with locals and the few visitors that opted to stay overnight. San Gimignano is most recognisable for its imposing towers, but behind the city walls, you will also find some truly underrated art galleries.

Best Places to Stay in San Gimignano

San Gimignano is a small destination, and most areas can be easily reached on foot. You might opt to head into the nearby countryside for a more rural vibe. Despite its size, it has great road connections – making it a great choice for those with a car.

Medieval Tower Tuscany

Best Airbnb in San Gimignano: Medieval Tower

Another gorgeous Italian Airbnb Plus property, this charming apartment in a medieval tower is easily one of the most unique accommodation choices in Tuscany! Dating back to the 12th Century, this apartment oozes charm out of every crevice. The original brickwork has been well maintained, with some modern finishes to give you a little extra comfort. It has two bedrooms but is still well priced for couples.

Best Guest House in San Gimignano: Donna Nobile

Donna Nobile is contained within a fully renovated medieval building. In many ways, this makes it the budget-friendly alternative to our top AirBnB pick for the town. As it is a guest house, couples can stay here safe in the knowledge they have their own private room; however, you still get the benefit of social spaces where you can meet other guests.

Best Hotel in San Gimignano: Relais Cappuccina

Really looking to splurge on a romantic getaway to Tuscany? Look no further than this four-star dream in the outskirts of San Gimignano. This position just outside the town gives you unbeatable views towards the medieval centre – perfect for capturing that all-important Instagram shot. There is an extensive spa and wellness centre on-site – but the hotel is quite small, so it doesn’t get too crowded.

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Lucca – Coolest Place to Stay in Tuscany

Dating back to the Etruscan era, Lucca is among the oldest cities in the world. While it has retained some of its ancient architecture, the gothic buildings that can be seen across the city make it one of the best travel destinations in Italy . It has also retained its city walls, which visitors can enjoy a charming walk around while admiring the scenery.

Lucca Tuscany

Lucca is well connected to Pisa and Florence – as well as some of the smaller destinations mentioned in this guide. For this reason, we believe it is an excellent choice for first-time travellers, especially since it also has direct connections with Pisa Airport. Its laid back vibes mean you can enjoy a peaceful night of sleep before exploring further afield in Tuscany.

Best Places to Stay in Lucca

Like Pisa, Lucca is a pretty small city, and most of the attractions can easily be reached on foot. If you care about an authentic experience, we suggest staying within the ancient city walls. Outside of this area, you will also find some budget-friendly accommodation.

Angeloni Tuscany

Best Guest House in Lucca: Villa Sunrise

There aren’t many hostels in Lucca, but this charming guest house is a great alternative for backpackers that want a little extra privacy. They offer a complimentary breakfast every morning, so it’s a wise choice for those sticking to a tight budget. They have some small social spaces, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to socialise with other guests.

Best Airbnb in Lucca: Angeloni

Airbnb Luxe goes above and beyond the usual service you would expect from self-catering accommodation. Properties in this range offer a wide range of additional service, including spa services, concierges and butlers. This large villa is a restored traditional Tuscan home with space for up to ten people. It is surrounded by lush forest and even has its own private pool.

Angeloni is one of our favourites in Tuscany but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Best Hotel in Lucca: Lula B&B

This bed and breakfast is a little bit of an upgrade – but still totally affordable! Guests are given free bicycle rental, a great way to take in the sights and sounds of Lucca. There is a typical Italian breakfast served every morning that is highly rated among previous guests. We love the cute little garden around the back, with small tables where you can enjoy your breakfast with a view.

Lula B&B is one of our favourites in Tuscany but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Siena – Where to Stay in Tuscany on a Budget

Tuscany has a reputation as one of the most expensive destinations in Italy – and there’s really no escaping how much higher prices are when compared to the south. That being said, Siena has some excellent budget-friendly accommodation and dining options. You’ll get to enjoy a little bit more for your money staying here – and it’s well connected to Florence.

Siena Tuscany

Of course, Siena isn’t primarily known as a budget destination and has plenty of fascinating attractions in its own right. The Il Palio horse race is a colourful event held twice every summer – but even if you can’t make that, you should take some time to admire the medieval architecture dotted around the town.

Best Places to Stay in Siena

The city centre can only be accessed on foot – and is, therefore, a great spot if you’re looking for somewhere peaceful to rest in the evenings. The city is quite small, and outside of these limits, you won’t find many accommodation options.

Hotel Minerva Tuscany

Best Guest House in Siena: Casa Di Alfredo

There aren’t any hostels in Siena, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few great options for budget backpackers! Our favourite is Casa di Alfredo, a cute little guesthouse with private rooms going at the same rate as dorm beds in Florence. Right next to Porta Camollia, you’ll only be a short walk away from the main attractions in Siena – as well as good transport links to elsewhere in Florence.

Best Hotel in Siena: Hotel Minerva

If you want to upgrade for a more typical hotel experience, this three-star dream still won’t break the bank. Not only do they provide a complimentary breakfast, but you also get to enjoy it over stunning views of Siena and the Tuscan hills. It is located a little bit outside the town centre, but you can reach the train station and main attractions within 15 minutes on foot.

Best Airbnb in Siena: Central Apartment

This stylish apartment only has one bedroom, but there’s also a hidden mezzanine, meaning it can actually fit up to four guests. This makes it an excellent budget option for groups and families heading to Siena that want the benefits of self-catering accommodation. It’s also only a two-minute walk from Piazza del Campo and the Chigiana Music Academy.

Central Apartment is one of our favourites in Tuscany but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

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Arezzo – One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in Tuscany

When it comes to the most unique place to stay in Tuscany, everywhere mentioned in this guide would be able to take the crown for one reason or another. What truly makes Arezzo stand out is its place as a major trading centre of industry, agriculture and gold. Arezzo is the place to come if you want to experience local life without staying out in the sticks. 

Arezzo Tuscany

Arezzo was an important town in the Etruscan era , and much of the architecture harks back to this part of Italy’s history. There are a number of museums in the town with a more understated vibe than those in the larger urban centres in Tuscany. Arezzo maintains a sleepy vibe, making it the perfect place to kick back and relax.

Best Places to Stay in Arezzo

The Centro Storico is where you will find the main attractions in Arezzo. There are also a few more rural areas in the town, but these can, at times, feel stiflingly secluded. We’ve made an exception for our agriturismo suggestion as it is so unique, but generally, you should stick to the town centre.

Splendido Loft Tuscany

Best Airbnb in Arezzo: Splendido Loft

This gorgeous loft beautifully combines Tuscan tradition with modern design to create a warm and inviting space. Just like the Siena suggestion, this apartment makes use of a mezzanine floor to give you enough space for four guests. The famous antique fair is right outside your front door, letting you experience a small slice of Arezzo every Sunday.

Best Guest House in Arezzo: Poggio del Drago

This is one of the most affordable guesthouses in Tuscany, but also one of the most beautiful! The rustic interiors match the traditional architecture, giving you a truly authentic experience in the Tuscan countryside. It is located just outside Arezzo, but you can easily reach the centre of town on foot. This secluded location, we believe, adds a little extra charm to their offering.

Best Hotel in Arezzo: Agriturismo II Palazzo

Agriturismo is Italian for a farmhouse that has been let out to tourists, making this one of the most unique experiences in Tuscany. You will get the chance to watch a working farm from the comfort of your hotel room. They also offer horseback riding for guests, as well as complimentary bicycle hire so you can explore the region at your own pace.

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Cortona – Where to Stay in Tuscany for Foodies

Like basically everywhere else in Italy, Tuscany is a massively diverse food region, and you’re sure to sample delights wherever you go. What makes Cortona stand out is all of the cooking classes on offer. Going beyond just letting you taste everything the town has to offer, foodies will be able to learn the skills to make delicious meals back home.

Cortona Tuscany

At 600 metres above sea level, Cortona is also a very photogenic location, with panoramic views across Tuscany. The city was the location of Under the Tuscan Sun and has attracted plenty of movie crews ever since. Like Arezzo, it was part of the Etruscan league, so you also won’t be short of historical delights.

Best Places To Stay in Cortona

There are a few great agriturismi in the area – a unique accommodation experience on a working farm. If you would rather stay in the centre of town, the buildings here are very old, so you are sure to experience a little slice of Etruscan history.

Monastero Di Cortona Tuscany

Best Airbnb in Cortona: Romantic Cottage

This stunning AirBnB Plus house oozes rustic Tuscan charm while still benefiting from modern interior design and appliances. The interiors were recently renovated, with unique ceramic walls and a modern kitchen. The cozy little patio round the back might seem small, but it’s a great spot for enjoying a peaceful breakfast before you head out to explore the region.

Best Farmhouse in Cortona: Casa del Sole

Like our Arezzo hotel, this accommodation is located on a functioning farm. It is, however, offered at much more affordable rates, making it a totally unique experience for backpackers on a budget. They can only accept up to nine guests across the two apartments, so this is more suited for those looking to get away from society for a little bit.

Best Hotel in Cortona: Monastero Di Cortona

Housed in a converted monastery dating back to the medieval era, this hotel is a small slice of Tuscan history! There is a roof garden where you can admire stunning views of Cortona. We love the on-site spa, with a wide range of holistic therapies and treatments. Basilica di Santa Margherita is only a short walk away, and a complimentary breakfast buffet is included.

Montepulciano – Must Visit Destination in Tuscany for Wine Lovers

Luxury travellers take note – Montepulciano is one of the most exclusive destinations in Tuscany. Accommodation and dining here certainly costs a pretty penny, but not without good reason. Montepulciano is the most prolific wine region in Tuscany, with more vineyards than you can manage in a single trip.

Montepulciano Tuscany

Most of these vineyards come with tourism experiences – ranging from picking your own grapes to sampling the best vintages. The town itself has a romantic charm typical of Tuscany’s rural idylls.

Best Places To Stay in Montepulciano

Montepulciano is totally worth splurging on. The quaint town centre gives you an authentic experience, and the rolling vineyards are worth checking out for the panoramic scenery alone.

Castello di Velona Tuscany

Best Airbnb in Montepulciano: Villa Montepulciano

This is another beautiful Airbnb Luxe property – and it’s totally worth splurging on! It is located within a working vineyard, allowing wine enthusiasts to get up close and personal with the production process. Guests are also given the chance to take an Italian winery tour and sample the goods, all within a rustic and traditional setting. Sleeping up to 15 guests, it’s great for a large group.

Best Guest House near Montepulciano: I Tre Rioni

This guest house is super basic – but Montepulciano is one of the most expensive areas in Tuscany, so it is your best bet for visiting the town on a budget. With only four guest rooms, you will get to enjoy an intimate experience. Central Montepulciano is only a short walk away, as well as the largest vineyard in the region. Rooms are beautifully decorated with traditional Tuscan furnishings.

Best Hotel in Montepulciano: Castello di Velona

Montepulciano really is the place to splurge in Tuscany! This five-star resort, part of the Leading Hotels of the World Range, will give you the chance to experience the ultimate luxury accommodation. It is housed in a restored castle from the 10th century and overlooks the rolling hills of Tuscany. It’s a little secluded – perfect for those that just want to unwind.

Top Places To Stay in Tuscany

Faq about finding a place to stay in tuscany, what to pack for tuscany, don’t forget travel insurance for tuscany, final thoughts on where to stay in tuscany.

Tuscany is a vast region, and getting between areas can be a little tricky – but if you’re hiring a car, it shouldn’t take you more than a couple of hours. Don’t mind which place you end up staying in? These are our top three overall accommodation picks.

Top Places to Stay in Tuscany

Best Airbnb in Tuscany – San Gimignano – Medieval Tower

It doesn’t get any more unique than this in Tuscany! Housed within a 12th Century Tower, you’ll be transported back in time to Italy’s medieval era. It is located on the main square, and you will be rewarded with gorgeous views of the Duomo from the rooftop balcony and dining area. It’s part of the Airbnb Plus range, so you’ll have to splurge a little – but is nevertheless affordable for couples and groups of three.

Best Guest House in Tuscany – Arezzo – Poggio del Drago

Outside of Florence, you won’t find many hostels in Tuscany – but backpackers still have plenty of great budget options in the form of guesthouses. This gorgeous retreat just outside Arezzo lets you experience authentic Tuscan charm on a budget. They also have some great social spaces where you can mingle with other travellers – and a complimentary Italian breakfast every morning.

Best Hotel in Tuscany – Florence – Hotel Lungarno

Ready to splurge? You can’t get any better than this gorgeous five-star hotel right on the banks of the Arno River in Florence. Not only do you get mesmerising views of Ponte Vecchio, but you also only need to walk across the bridge to visit the historical monuments and awe-inspiring art galleries of the city centre. Once back at the hotel, you’ll be rewarded with fine dining, a laid-back lounge bar and private art pieces.

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Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Tuscany and where to stay.

Where is the best place to stay for wine in Tuscany?

Montepulciano is our top pick. There are more wine-related activities in this area than you could possibly wish for. If you’re an enthusiast, then this area is the place for you.

Which are the best hotels in Tuscany?

These are our favourite hotels in Tuscany: – Hotel Lungarno – Relais Cappuccina – Hotel Minerva

What is the coolest place to stay in Tuscany?

We have to say Lucca. Being one of the oldest cities in the world, this place offers one of the best insights into the deep-rooted history and culture of Italy. We think it is a must-see.

Where is the best place for families to stay in Tuscany?

Pisa is a great spot. It is one of the more laid-back areas, where you will still see some top sights and attractions. The fantastic public transport connections also make this a really stress-free destination.

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It should come as no surprise that we believe Tuscany is a destination everyone should visit at least once! This highly diverse region has so much to offer, including world-class cuisine , fascinating historical attractions, and thriving art hubs. The Renaissance capital of Florence is by far the most popular destination, but there’s so much more to discover outside of the city.

Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Tuscany

If we had to pick one destination as our favourite, we would struggle – but Lucca is an excellent choice for first-time visitors. It is only a short journey away from Pisa and has great connections with Florence. This is a great way to maximise how much you get out of your first trip to this stunning region. It’s also a beautiful city in its own right.

That being said, Tuscany has so much variety that we really do recommend travelling around the region. Public transport options aren’t that bad, but hiring a car is the only way to guarantee you’ll be able to fit it all in. 

We hope this guide has helped you plan your upcoming trip to Tuscany. Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!

  • Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Italy .
  • Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Italy .
  • Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Italy instead.
  • Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Italy to plan your trip.
  • Planning out an itinerary for Italy is a great way to maximise your time.
  • Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Italy . 
  • Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
  • Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Lu Frey

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Pine Knoll Lodge & Cabins

Pine Knoll Lodge & Cabins

Travel To Tuscany On A Budget

When most people think of Italian travel, they think of expensive, high-end destinations like Rome or Venice. However, tucked away in the heart of Italy is the region of Tuscany, which is a much more affordable option for those looking to explore this beautiful country. In Tuscany, you can find everything from rolling hills and medieval villages to vineyards and olive orchards. And thanks to its central location, Tuscany is a great base for day trips to other popular Italian destinations.

Of course, traveling to Tuscany on a budget does require a bit of planning. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Fly into Florence. Florence is the largest city in Tuscany and is home to many budget-friendly hotels and restaurants. It’s also a great base for exploring the rest of the region.

2. Stay in a small town. Unlike the bigger cities, small towns in Tuscany offer a more authentic Italian experience at a fraction of the cost. Try staying in a place like San Gimignano, which is known for its towering medieval towers, or Cortona, which is nestled in the hills of the Valdichiana.

3. Take advantage of free activities. There are plenty of free things to do in Tuscany, including hiking, biking, and exploring the region’s charming villages.

4. Eat like the locals. Tuscany is home to some of the best food in Italy, so be sure to sample the local cuisine. Many restaurants in smaller towns offer great-value set menus, which typically include a starter, main course, and dessert.

5. Use public transportation. Instead of renting a car, rely on the region’s excellent public transportation system to get around. This will help you save money on gas and parking.

With a bit of planning, you can easily travel to Tuscany on a budget. So what are you waiting for? Get packing!

  • 1 How cheap can you travel in Tuscany?
  • 2 Is Tuscany expensive to visit?
  • 3 How much spending money do you need for Tuscany?
  • 4 What is the best month to visit Tuscany?
  • 5 How many days do you need in Tuscany?
  • 6 Do you need a car in Tuscany?
  • 7 What is cheaper in Italy than US?

How cheap can you travel in Tuscany?

There are many ways to answer this question, as it depends on what your priorities are and how much money you want to spend. However, here are some tips on how to travel cheaply in Tuscany.

One of the best ways to save money when travelling is to stay in hostels or campgrounds, rather than staying in hotels. There are many hostels and camping grounds throughout Tuscany, and they offer great value for your money.

Another way to save money is to cook your own food. There are many markets and grocery stores in Tuscany, so you can easily find ingredients to cook your own meals. This is a great way to save money, and it can also be a fun way to explore the local cuisine.

Finally, consider travelling during the off-season. Many people avoid travelling to Tuscany during the winter months, but this is actually a great time to save money. The weather is cooler, but the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower.

Is Tuscany expensive to visit?

Is Tuscany expensive to visit? This is a question that is often asked by tourists who are planning to visit this beautiful region in Italy. The answer is that it depends on what you want to do while you are there.

If you are planning to stay in Tuscany and only visit the main tourist destinations, then you will find that it is not expensive. However, if you want to do some of the more adventurous activities, such as hiking or biking, then you will find that it is a bit more expensive than some of the other regions in Italy.

In general, you can expect to spend around €50-€60 per day on food and drink, and around €100-€200 per day on accommodation. This obviously varies depending on the type of accommodation you choose and the level of luxury you are looking for.

If you are looking for some tips on how to save money while you are in Tuscany, here are a few ideas:

– Stay in a smaller town or village, rather than a big city. This will usually be cheaper and you will also have the opportunity to experience traditional Italian life.

– Eat at local restaurants rather than tourist traps. Not only will you save money, but you will also get to try some of the delicious local cuisine.

– Do some of the activities yourself, rather than paying for a guide. This is a great way to save money and it also gives you the opportunity to explore the region on your own terms.

All in all, Tuscany is a great destination for tourists who are looking for a mix of culture, history and natural beauty. Just be prepared to spend a bit more than you would in some of the other regions in Italy.

How much spending money do you need for Tuscany?

When planning a vacation to Tuscany, it’s important to budget for expenses beyond just the cost of airfare and hotel. Italy is a notoriously expensive country to visit, and Tuscany is no exception. In order to make the most of your time in this breathtaking region, you’ll need to budget for food, drinks, transportation, and sightseeing.

Food and drinks can be a major expense in Tuscany. A meal at a casual restaurant will run you about 25 Euros, and that doesn’t include drinks. If you want to cut costs, you can buy food at the grocery store and cook your own meals, but even then you’ll likely spend at least 10 Euros per day on groceries. If you’re not interested in cooking, eating out is the best option, but be prepared to spend a good amount of money.

Transportation can also be expensive in Tuscany. A train ticket from Florence to Siena, for example, costs about 20 Euros. If you’re planning to do a lot of sightseeing, it may be worth investing in a multi-day transportation pass.

Finally, sightseeing can be a major expense in Tuscany. Entrance fees to popular tourist destinations like the Uffizi Gallery in Florence and the Tower of Pisa can be quite expensive. If you’re planning to visit a lot of attractions, it’s a good idea to invest in a tourist pass. These passes usually include admission to multiple sites as well as discounts on transportation and food.

So, how much money do you need to budget for a trip to Tuscany? Depending on your spending habits, you should expect to spend at least 250 Euros per day. This includes all of your expenses: food, drinks, transportation, and sightseeing. However, if you’re willing to cook your own meals and sightsee on a budget, you can get by on less.

What is the best month to visit Tuscany?

This is a question that can be difficult to answer, as it depends on what you are looking for in a Tuscan vacation. However, in general, the best time to visit Tuscany is from April to October, when the weather is warm and pleasant and there are many festivals and events taking place.

If you are looking for good weather, the best months to visit are May, June, September and October. However, July and August can be quite hot and crowded, especially in the larger cities and coastal towns. April and May are a good time to visit Tuscany if you want to avoid the crowds, and September and October are great for hiking and enjoying the autumn foliage.

If you are interested in sightseeing and enjoying the cultural attractions, the spring and fall months are also a good time to visit, as many museums and churches are closed in the summer. However, if you are looking to buy souvenirs or enjoy the nightlife, the summer months may be a better choice.

Overall, the best month to visit Tuscany depends on what you are looking for in a vacation, but in general the warm weather months of April to October are the best time to go.

How many days do you need in Tuscany?

How many days do you need in Tuscany? This is a question that is often asked by tourists who are planning a trip to Italy. Tuscany is a beautiful region in central Italy that is known for its rolling hills, wine country, and charming villages. While it is possible to visit Tuscany in just a few days, it is recommended that you allow yourself at least a week to explore this region.

There are a number of things to see and do in Tuscany. Some of the highlights include exploring Florence, the capital of Tuscany, visiting the medieval town of Siena, touring the vineyards of Chianti, and visiting the picturesque villages of San Gimignano and Lucca.

If you are short on time, it is possible to visit some of the highlights of Tuscany in just a few days. However, you will need to plan your trip carefully and make sure to schedule plenty of time for each destination.

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Tuscany:

Day 1: Arrive in Florence

Day 2: Florence

Day 3: Florence

Day 4: Siena

Day 5: Chianti Countryside

Day 6: San Gimignano

Day 7: Lucca

Day 8: Depart for home

Do you need a car in Tuscany?

Do you need a car in Tuscany? The short answer is no, you don’t need a car in Tuscany, but there are a few scenarios where having one would make life a lot easier.

First and foremost, if you plan to stay in one of the major cities like Florence, Siena, or Pisa, you really don’t need a car. These cities are all located in close proximity to one another and are well-served by public transportation. In addition, the narrow streets and abundance of pedestrians make driving in these cities a nightmare.

If, however, you plan on visiting some of the smaller villages or spending time in the countryside, a car can be a real life-saver. The roads in rural Tuscany are narrow and winding, and can be a bit of a challenge to navigate. In addition, public transportation in these areas is often sporadic and unreliable.

So, if you’re flexibility and are willing to take the time to explore Tuscany’s smaller villages, you can definitely get by without a car. But, if you’re looking to make the most of your time in Tuscany and want to be able to explore all corners of the region, a car is definitely the way to go.

What is cheaper in Italy than US?

When it comes to spending money, the US and Italy have different priorities. In the US, people are more likely to spend money on things like cars, clothes and electronics. In Italy, people are more likely to spend money on food, wine and healthcare.

As a result, there are a number of things that are cheaper in Italy than in the US. For example, food is much cheaper in Italy. In the US, a meal at a fast food restaurant can cost $10 or more. In Italy, you can get a meal for $5 or less.

Wine is also much cheaper in Italy. In the US, a bottle of wine can cost $20 or more. In Italy, you can buy a bottle of wine for $10 or less.

Healthcare is also cheaper in Italy. In the US, healthcare is expensive and it can be difficult to find good healthcare coverage. In Italy, healthcare is much cheaper and it is easy to find good healthcare coverage.

Overall, there are a number of things that are cheaper in Italy than in the US. If you are looking to save money, it is a good idea to travel to Italy.

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Experience the best of Tuscany with this regional guide

Angelo Zinna

Aug 4, 2023 • 11 min read

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Have the most memorable trip to Tuscany with this comprehensive guide to the best of the region © Getty Images

Tuscany escapes easy definition. The Apennines – Italy’s mountainous spine – slope into vineyard-covered rolling hills, which in turn fade into the Mediterranean coast. This blend of diverse landscapes is home to the remains of millennia-old Etruscan settlements, isolated hamlets whose stone-built bell towers date back to the Middle Ages, and grand art cities whose heritage is invaluable. 

With sarcasm being the local language, Tuscans may not seem to take such wealth too seriously, but understanding the many different facets of this rich Central Italian region can feel overwhelming. Florence tends to grab most of the attention, but it's worth exploring beyond the Renaissance city to discover the unexpected treasures of this rich Central Italian region. 

Whether you are planning an art-filled tour of medieval cities, a road trip through the twisting countryside roads of Val d’Orcia, or a multi-day hike along the Via Francigena pilgrim route, here is how to figure it all out.

When should I go to Tuscany?

Late spring to early autumn is when most people visit Tuscany. It’s easy to understand why – days get longer and warmer, the countryside comes to life, outdoor dining opportunities abound, and festivals happen all around. Florence runs its Calcio Storico tournament and the region’s largest music festival, Firenze Rocks ; Siena has its traditional Palio horse race; Pistoia hosts its Blues Festival ; and Cortona its International Photography Festival . And there’s more.

July and August are peak holiday season. It’s when most Italians go on holiday and temperatures get scorching – days surpassing 35ºC (95ºF) have become the norm at this time of the year. Visiting in the middle of summer (especially in August) means finding beaches clogged and cities empty. Prices are significantly higher in popular destinations and booking accommodation in advance is well advised.

The two shoulder seasons – either between late April and June, or in September and October – typically offer the best compromise between good weather, flows of people, and prices. Come in spring and you’ll see the countryside in full bloom; visit in autumn to catch the wine harvest – and related events like the Expo del Chianti Classico in September – and truffle fairs such as San Miniato’s White Truffle Exhibition in November.

Tourism slows down during winter, especially after the Christmas holidays. The coast goes into hibernation, and many countryside hotels shut down until spring. Cities offer the chance to visit famous museums without crowds – often at reduced prices, as is the case for the Uffizi in Florence – and deals on accommodation are more easily found.

The awesome historical center of the medieval and renaissance city on theVal d'Orcia, famous for wine; Tuscany region, province of Siena

How much time do I need to visit Tuscany?

With so much to see and do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed in Tuscany. There is no perfect length of stay when it comes to exploring the region – whether you feel drawn to art, food, or the outdoors, you’ll likely leave looking forward to a second trip. 

With walkable cities well-connected by public transport, a five-day stay will allow you time to tour Florence’s main sights and then jump on the train for a day trip in Siena , Lucca , or Arezzo . If you’d rather drive yourself, you can explore Val d’Orcia in about three days or plan a week-long road trip starting from Pisa which will take you through the rural towns that dot the hilly interior.

Slow travelers can also walk the path of the Tuscan section of the ancient Via Francigena – the pilgrim route that connected the Canterbury with Rome during the Middle Ages – crossing 38 municipalities over the course of 16 (or more) days.

Is it easy to get in and around Tuscany? 

Tuscany has two international airports, Florence and Pisa. Pisa's Galileo Galilei (PSA) airport is serviced by many low-cost airlines and has twice the passenger traffic of Firenze's Amerigo Vespucci (FLR) airport. The two cities are connected with a direct railway, which takes just over an hour to travel. Besides flying, it is possible to reach Florence with high-speed trains departing from many major Italian cities, including Rome , Naples , Milan , Bologna  and Venice .

Tuscany's rail network spans across 181 stations, providing an affordable means of exploring the region. You can buy regional train tickets conveniently through trenitalia.com or at any station. Remember to validate paper tickets purchased at the station before boarding the train. Trains do not run to many of the smaller towns and while buses are available, the best way of moving around rural areas is by car. Major rental companies, such as Budget, Sixt, Hertz, operate around Tuscany, with the largest offer available in Florence and Pisa.

Where to go in Tuscany

Tuscany is divided into ten provinces and people are famously proud of the defining characteristics of each. The days of warring city states are long gone, but by speaking to locals you will learn that food, dialects, and traditions can still differ widely from city to city – here is what to expect.

Renowned for its incomparable Renaissance heritage, Florence often feels like an open-air museum. The Tuscan capital is far from large, but its compact historic core packs grandiose cathedrals – such as Santa Maria del Fiore topped by Brunelleschi’s cupola, Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella  – opulent palaces, and some of the region’s best art museums. The Galleria degli Uffizi , one of Italy’s most visited museums, tends to be high on everyone’s list, but there are plenty more options for art lovers including Michelangelo’s masterpieces in the Cappelle Medicee and the Galleria dell’Accademia , and the Medici’s heritage at Palazzo Pitti and Palazzo Vecchio .

Outside the thick stone walls of its captivating galleries, Florence boasts a cosmopolitan character and a vibrant culinary scene. Roam its markets in San Lorenzo or Santo Spirito , explore crafts and design workshops in the Oltrarno, and then fuel up with a stuffed schiacciata  (Tuscan flatbread) at Forno Becagli or Sapori Toscani. Before dinner, get a negroni at the newly opened Caffè Giacosa, inspired by the bar where Count Camillo Negroni is said to have invented the cocktail, then hit one of the city’s many trattorias  (informal restaurant) for dinner.

Elderly man picking grapes during the grape harvest in Tuscany

The Chianti region

The core of Tuscany’s most famous wine region stretches between Florence and Siena, offering as many tasting opportunities as you can imagine. The Strada Statale 222, better known as Via Chiantigiana, runs through the whole of the Chianti region north to south, twisting among vineyard-covered hills and medieval castles, making for an ideal road trip.

Antinori nel Chianti Classico , on the outskirts of Florence, is perhaps the region’s best-known winery – its futuristic headquarters in were completed in 2012, but the Antinori family has been in the wine business for over six hundred years, since Giovanni di Piero Antinori joined the Arte Fiorentina dei Vinattieri (Florentine Winemakers' Guild) in 1385. Many other wineries are found along the way, including the excellent boutique winery Capanelle and the imposing Castello di Brolio of the Ricasoli winery.

One of Tuscany’s most beautiful squares – Piazza del Campo – marks the center of Siena, Florence’s eternal rival that emerged during the Middle Ages as a progressive city-state where art and architecture flourished. Each year, the semi-circular piazza commonly known as “Il Campo” hosts the Palio, one of the most heartfelt events of the year in which Siena’s neighborhoods compete in a horse race with thousands of people watching.

Siena is worth spending a few days in, but if you are short on time make sure to enter its Duomo – Giovanni and Nicola Pisano, Pinturicchio, Michelangelo, Donatello and Gian Lorenzo Bernini all contributed to making the cathedral an unchallenged masterpiece. Don’t miss the floor, a composition of 56 marble panels forming a mosaic with scenes from the Old Testament, created by various artists between the 14th and the 19th centuries.

Val d’Orcia

The postcard image of Tuscany you have in mind likely comes from Val d’Orcia, the Unesco-inscribed region where cypress-lined roads lead to dreamy farm houses surrounded by hay bales that look like they are just about to roll down the hills. Films such as Anthony Minghella’s The English Patient and Ridley Scott’s The Gladiator have used Val d’Orcia as their backdrop and road tripping this region guarantees exceptional views all around.

Many charming towns dot this rural area. The construction of Pienza was commissioned to architect Bernardo Rossellino, a student of Leon Battista Alberti, by Enea Silvio Piccolomini, a humanist born who would become Pope Pius II in 1458, as the “ideal Renaissance city” and still stands as one of the main settlements in the Val d’Orcia. Not far you can find the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni and the fortress of Montalcino , globally revered for its prized Brunello wine.

Italy, Tuscany, Pisa, View to Cathedral and Leaning Tower of Pisa at Piazza dei Miracoli

Pisa is often reduced to its leaning tower but there is much more to see, both inside and outside the Unesco-listed Piazza dei Miracoli. In the Middle Ages Pisa was one of Italy’s most powerful maritime republics, and signs of its wealth are still part of this city which is now home of one of Tuscany's most important universities.

The monumental cemetery of Piazza dei Miracoli, established in 1277 to house the remains of the city’s elite, houses one of the city’s most important frescoes, the recently restored Il Trionfo della Morte (The Triumph of Death) by Buonamico Buffalmacco. Beyond Piazza dei Miracoli you find the new Navi di Pisa Museum which traces the history of the city’s relationship with the sea and features parts of over 800 ships excavated in Pisa’s surroundings.

The islands

Distant from the museums and the cathedrals of the region's art cities are the seven islands of the Tuscan archipelago, ideally positioned for a Mediterranean escape after an overload of culture. The islands – Elba, Giglio, Montecristo, Capraia, Pianosa, Giannutri and Gorgona – come to life during summer and it’s worth booking accommodation well in advance if you plan to visit in the high season. Elba is the largest of the seven, offering both great beaches and hiking opportunities along its Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE, Elba’s Great Crossing) trail.

Anfiteatro square in Lucca. Lucca is a thriving and cosmopolitan city, with a rich history and culture, and many museums and churches.effect vintage

The 12m tall walls surrounding Lucca’s historic center, built between 1513 and 1650 and stretching for four kilometers across eleven bastions, are among Europe’s best preserved fortifications and function as the city’s green lung with large parks and tree-lined paths offering great views over Lucca’s heart.

This charming city makes for an ideal day trip from Florence – inside the fortress walls, you’ll find Lucca’s Cattedrale di San Martino , where Gothic and Romanesque elements blend to form the structure housing one of Tuscany’s most precious artifacts, the celebrated Volto Santo (holy face) crucifix, believed to be one of the oldest wooden sculptures in Europe.

In summer the city hosts its Lucca Summer Festival , held in Piazza Napoleone. Over the years, artists such as Elton John, The Scorpions, Green Day, and Sting have played in the city. Another important event is the Lucca Comics & Games , one of Europe’s largest comics festivals held each year in autumn.

The Apuan Alps

The Parco Naturale delle Alpi Apuane stretches across two areas of northeastern Tuscany that few people take the time to visit, Lunigiana and Garfagnana. The rugged Apuan Alps take their name from their resemblance to the actual Alps, although they are much smaller in size with peaks under 2,000 meters. 

Historically these mountains have been the main source of Carrara marble, extracted since Roman times in the quarries surrounding the city of Carrara. Today, much of the area is a protected nature reserve marked by a vast network of hiking trails. The hamlets of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana and Barga are good spots to start your exploration of the region – either by relaxing around the Lago di Vagli or committing to a multi-day hike along the Via Vandelli, connecting Massa to Modena.

My favorite thing to do in Tuscany

In early October the legendary Eroica cycling race attracts thousands of athletes to the town of Gaiole in Chianti to compete on vintage bikes on the white roads that criss-cross the region. It's a grueling challenge – participants take on average 15 hours to complete the 212km itinerary. Luckily, you don’t have to join the race to explore Chianti on two wheels.

Rent a gravel bike or an electric mountain bike at Il Biciclettaio in Gaiole in Chianti, and follow the same itinerary of the Eroica athletes over three to five days. Cut through fields of vineyards and make room to visit Siena, Buonconvento, Montalcino, Asciano, and Brolio, fueling up with plates of pici pasta along the way.

Outdoor trattoria in a quiant village in Tuscany, Italy

How much money do I need in Tuscany?

Costs in Tuscany can vary widely depending on where and when you go. Prices tend to be inflated in areas that attract large tourism flows like central Florence and Siena and skyrocket along the coast during summer months. Still, it is possible to visit on a budget by relying on public transport and looking for accommodation deals outside peak summer months.

A guide to daily costs in Tuscany

  • Basic double room: 80€
  • Espresso coffee: 1.20€
  • Car rental: 65€
  • A stuffed schiacciata sandwich: 5€
  • Dinner for two with a bottle of local wine: €70
  • Museum ticket: 10€ to 20€
  • Petrol: 1.80€/liter
  • City parking: 2€/hour
  • Aperitivo cocktail: 7€
  • Glass of wine: 5€
  • Train ticket from Florence to Pisa 8.90€

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Budget Tours & Trips to Tuscany

Discover a varied offer of Tuscany budget adventures that will take you through some of the most renowned destinations such as Florence and San Gimignano. Each affordable tour will provide you with great experiences for some of the lowest prices on the market.

19 cheap Tuscany tour packages with 55 reviews

The Best of Tuscany - 4Days/3Nights Tour

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Local Living
  • Christmas & New Year
  • Wine tasting

The Best of Tuscany - 4Days/3Nights

The trip was beautiful.
  • €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Italian Triple Centre with a world wonder Tour

  • Educational

Italian Triple Centre with a world wonder

Florence City Break - 3 Days/2 Nights Tour

Florence City Break - 3 Days/2 Nights

Great value for the money. Everything easy enough to find and navigate. Lorenzo did our wine tour and was truly amazing. All around friendly and knowledgeable guy. We even had bad weather and he still made sure we did everything we were supposed to.

Tuscany Walking and Wine Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking

Tuscany Walking and Wine

One of the best vacations we have ever taken. The scenery was stunning and it was very well organized. Matteo was an amazing guide and handled every details to perfection. The walking can be challenging for portions of the tour, but all very doable if you are in descent shape. You can't beat the scenery you experience! I would highly recommend the tour and will look to do similar tours in the future.
  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of Tuscany and Florence - 8 Days Tour

Best of Tuscany and Florence - 8 Days

We, an Australian family of 6, really enjoyed our tour through Florence and Tuscany. Although when booking we had some reservations about the activities offered, we loved every day of our tour, particularly the cooking class, and there was something for everyone, even our 9 and 11 year old. The accomodation in Florence was adequate, comfortable and in a good location, but the accomodation in Montepulciano was fantastic and an experience all in itself. Our only complaint was that we did not have much guidance throughout the tour, merely a one hour briefing on the first night with a guide who we had no contact with for the rest of the week, so any questions we had either needed to be addressed to our daily guides, the hotel managers, or figured out via Google. We managed fairly easily, it was just unexpected. Our activities were also separately organised and we were with a different random group of people for two of our activities. However, all in all very much worth it!!

Best of Rome, Florence & Cinque Terre - 8 Days (Small Group) Tour

  • Sightseeing

Best of Rome, Florence & Cinque Terre - 8 Days (Small Group)

This was an awesome trip. The tour guides did an outstanding job throughout the tour. They were knowledgeable and friendly providing detailed information at each of the historical archeological sites visited. The transportation provided was always on time. The drivers were courteous and helpful. Great accommodations throughout. I would definitely recommend.

Cycle Pisa to Florence Tour

Cycle Pisa to Florence

4 Days in Florence. Tour

4 Days in Florence.

Via Francigena: Lucca to Siena Tour

Via Francigena: Lucca to Siena

Excellent week, will definitely go again.

TUSCANY THRILLS: A 3-Day Escape of Wine, Relax, and Fun Tour

TUSCANY THRILLS: A 3-Day Escape of Wine, Relax, and Fun

Italy Journey By High Speed Train - 7 Days Tour

Italy Journey By High Speed Train - 7 Days

Via Francigena: Best of Tuscany Tour

Via Francigena: Best of Tuscany

Via Francigena: Pontremoli to Lucca Tour

Via Francigena: Pontremoli to Lucca

Tuscany Cycle for Families Tour

Tuscany Cycle for Families

Walking in the Apuane Alps Tour

Walking in the Apuane Alps

Budget tours & trips to tuscany reviews.

Die Reise war wunderschön.
This was an amazing tour, Great to see Tuscany and taste amazing wine
Matthau was an excellent guide Best Insalada Caprese in San Gimignano Best lasagne in Pienza (side street) Best accomodation & breakfast in the Relais in Pienza ( eggs, bacon, cheese, ham, fresh fruit, Nat yogurt & much more) & a luxury to have 3 nights there! All wine experiences great but especially enjoyed Montichiello & their cellars - wine tasting also top notch Great walking and beautiful countryside Enjoyed free time in Sienna & Florence & managed to fit in a visit to Santa Maria Novella (fabulous cloisters and frescos) & the Uffizi
  • Budget Group tours (15)
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  • Budget Christmas & New Year tours (6)
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  • Budget In-depth Cultural tours (5)
  • Budget Wine tasting tours (5)
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International Versions

  • Deutsch: Günstige Reisen in Toskana
  • Français: Circuits et voyages économiques en Toscane
  • Español: Circuitos baratos por Toscana
  • Nederlands: Toscane Budget Reizen in Toscane

A Student’s Guide to Exploring Italy on a Budget

Author: Cory Shilling –

This guide is for you if you’re a student who wants to travel across Italy but is concerned about the cost. Italy is a well-liked travel destination for students because of its fascinating history, stunning scenery, mouthwatering cuisine, and many cultural treasures . But, it is feasible to experience all that Italy has to offer on a budget with a little bit of preparation. In this article we provide you some tips and advice in this to help you travel across Italy on a budget .

Exploring Italy on a budget – A Student’s Guide

1. schedule your trip for off-peak season.

Firstly, the all important question: when to go ? During June through August , which is considered Italy’s high season , rates for travel, lodging, and attractions are at their highest. Plan your vacation during the off-season, which runs from November to March , to save money. You’ll have a better chance of obtaining economical lodging and less expensive flights during this time because rates are lower and there are less tourists around.

=> It’s important to bear in mind that the more popular cities , like Venice , Florence or Rome have tourists all year round . That means prices are generally much higher than smaller towns or off-the-beaten track places. It’s also advisable to check out special events that are on in these cities during certain times (like Pitti fashion show in Florence or the Venice Biennale) to avoid higher prices.

tuscany travel on a budget

2. Plan Ahead

When it comes to finding cheap vacation, preparation is key . To identify the most affordable options for travel, lodging, and activities, do some prior research on your chosen trip. Traveling off-season, when costs are cheaper, is another way to save money. Think about other lodging options like hostels, homestays, or couchsurfing . These choices can offer a distinctive cultural experience and be far less expensive than motels. Use the student discounts available for travel, tours, and attractions. Bring your student ID with you as many companies may give students discounts.

Of course you need to carefully plan your study time and course work too. If you need online help with any assignments, including nursing assignment help, take advantage of AssignmentBro so you can have a little peace of mind on your trip. Skilled writers can assist you with everything from writing your topic, to producing a paper that is free of plagiarism. If you’re feeling anxious about the written exam, think about contacting a firm that can help you with your health and safety nursing assignment. They might be able to assist you in achieving the grade you need to enrol in the nursing program of your choice.

3. Opt for Affordable Accommodation

When visiting Italy, lodging might be one of the most expensive expenses. However, there are a number of affordable lodging options , including hostels, guesthouses, and low-cost hotels. Hostels are an excellent choice for travellers on a tight budget since they provide economical dormitory-style lodging, common kitchens, and social activities. Budget hotels and guesthouses are also a wonderful choice because they offer the essentials at a reasonable cost.

4. Check out the Free Sights & Activities

Many well-known tourist destinations may be found in Italy, including the Colosseum in Rome, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the canals of Venice. While some of these sights can be pricey, you can admire many of them without paying for entrance tickets. Discover the free sites in Italy to save money, including the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain in Rome, Florence Cathedral and all the beautiful squares you can imagine. Without breaking the bank, these attractions provide a look into the history and culture of Italy.

=> Check out the Best Things to do in Florence on a budget , and some Budget-Friendly Outdoor Adventures in Tuscany !

things to do in florence in 2020

5. Use public transportation as much as you can

Italy’s public transportation is inexpensive and effective , making it a fantastic choice for travellers on a tight budget. Use the buses, trains, and trams as a substitute for a rental car or a cab. Italy’s railways are dependable, reasonably priced, and connect to the majority of the country’s major cities, making countrywide travel simple.

Insider’s tip => if you’re planning a trip to lesser touristy parts of Italy, or travel to smaller towns in the countryside, check bus routes and timetable – they are less frequent than between the major destinations.

6. Eat Like a Local

Pasta, pizza, and gelato are three of the most popular dishes in Italian cuisine. Nonetheless, eating at restaurants can be pricey. Eat like a native to save money , and check out the street cuisine and regional markets. You can choose from a wide range of street food alternatives in Italy, including arancini , pizza al taglio , and panini . Local markets also provide fresh foods including meat, cheese, and a great selection of food products at far less money than eating establishments.

student's guide to travelling in Italy on a budget

7. Study a little Italian

When visiting Italy, learning a little basic Italian might be really helpful . It can assist you save money in addition to facilitating communication with the community. Italian-speaking patrons frequently receive discounts at restaurants and tourist destinations, and it can be useful when haggling over costs at nearby markets.

=> Check out the Best places to study Italian in Italy .

8. Benefit from student discounts

You are entitled to a number of discounts in Italy as a student . Student discounts are available at many sites, including museums and galleries , and they can save you up to 50% off the standard fee. Also, you can benefit from savings on lodging and public transportation. Always take your student card around with you!

9. Sign up for Complimentary Walking Tours

Numerous Italian cities provide free walking tours , which are an excellent opportunity to see the city and discover its history and culture. These guided tours are a terrific opportunity to meet other travellers and are run by knowledgeable tour guides.

=> Check out Free Tours in Florence and Free Walking Tours in Rome .

10. Choose less well-known locations

Rome, Florence, and Venice are well-liked travel destinations, but they can also be pricey. Try traveling to less well-known Italian cities like Bologna, Perugia, Padua or Palermo . These cities provide a distinctive cultural experience and are frequently more affordable than popular tourist hotspots.

=> New Rules for tourists in Italy in 2023

student's guide to travel in italy on a budget

11. Think of a homestay

In Italy, staying with a local family can be an excellent opportunity to explore the local culture while also saving money. Homestays provide inexpensive lodging and the chance to encounter genuine Italian hospitality . Also, you’ll get a chance to practice your Italian and discover more about regional customs and traditions.

12. Make wise souvenir purchases

The best way to remember your trip to Italy is with a souvenir, but they may be quite pricey. Consider purchasing at neighborhood markets or from street vendors rather than tourist shops if you want mementos. These sellers provide distinctive and genuine souvenirs at a portion of the price of tourist shops.

=> 10 Small Gifts to buy in Florence

13. Vacationing with Friends

Taking a trip with friends can help you save money on lodging and transportation . Sharing meals and the cost of a hostel or guesthouse accommodation might save your travel expenses dramatically. Also, it’s a fantastic chance to make enduring memories with your pals.

14. Make use of the free WiFi

In Italy, the majority of cafes and eateries have free WiFi , which can help you avoid paying for data usage. Use the free WiFi to connect with relatives and friends back home rather than utilizing your data plan. Remember: hotels, hostels also usually have free WI FI, as do local libraries .

15. Be flexible while making travel arrangements

Having a flexible approach to your travel arrangements can help you find cheaper flights and lodging. Instead of traveling on the weekends, think about going during the week when rates are frequently lower. Search engines for travel can also be used to compare costs and get the greatest offers on lodging and travel.

16. Enjoy Italy’s beautiful nature with plenty of activities

At the end of the day, some of the best experiences you can have in Italy are free. Enjoy its unspoilt nature, varied landscapes, fabulous beaches for swimming or sunbathing (Italy has 7500 Kilometres of coastline!) and the idyllic countryside in Tuscany and Umbria. You’ll find dramatic scenery of the Alps in the North, and the Apennines that run along the spine of the country, with plenty of natural parks and nature reserves for hiking or cycling.

=> Top 12 Unesco Sites in Italy

=> Best Places to study abroad in Italy

what to do in tuscany

To recap – Students Travelling to Italy on a budget

In summary, with some preparation and ingenuity , it is feasible to travel around Italy on a tight budget . You may take advantage of everything Italy has to offer without spending a fortune by using these suggestions and tactics. There are many ways to save money while taking advantage of all that Italy has to offer, from exploring the free attractions to dining like a native and taking advantage of student discounts.

Author’s Bio

Cory Shilling  is a talented and dedicated writer who treats every writing gig as something valuable to the person who orders it. He understands the difficulty that non-ending school and college assignments present to the students, and this is why he is always keen to provide the best help. He has gained popularity with his hard work and exceptional writing skills. 

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Lido di Venezia is a short ferry ride to Piazza San Marco.

The Hotel Excelsior on the Lido.

You don’t need to head to obscure, hard-to-reach parts of Italy to heed some of today’s most popular travel mantras, like “escape the crowds!”and “beat the heat!” Here are five gorgeous destinations close to (and even in) the country’s most sought-after spots that can help you do a bit of both. All are right on the water—almost a requirement for summer vacations now, when warm-weather months bring new, record-setting hot spells throughout Europe.

Consider Venice as a beach destinatio n.

While it’s almost impossible to escape the throngs during peak season in Venice proper, you can avoid a lot of the hubbub and deal blissfully with scorchers if you stay on the Lido di Venezia , a slender barrier island facing the Adriatic Sea. A short (15-to-25) minute ferry ride to Piazza San Marco, the Lido is a lovely haven with a choice of private and public beaches, making it easy to cool down after hours of touring.

There's no doubt you are in Venice—a gondolier rows two visitors along a Lido beach in an archival ... [+] photo.

In the 1950s and 1960s the Lido became a jet-set oasis, especially during the month of August, where it wasn’t unusual to see the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Aristotle Onassis and the city’s most prominent noble families mixing and mingling at the island’s glamorous beach clubs. (To get a flavor of those long-gone palmy days, read Gill Johnson’s marvelous new memoir, Love from Venice: A Golden Summer on the Grand Canal ). Big names continue to come here, most noticeably during the Film Festival in late August-early September when there’s plenty of action at the Palazzo Cinema and the luxe Excelsior Hotel. but other parts of the the 11-kilometer island remain tranquil. In addition to the historic Excelsior, the Lido is home to the five-star Ausonia and Hungaria, plus a selection of four- and three-star properties.

Head to stunning Lake Maggiore.

A view of Isola Bella overlooking Lake Maggiore.

Lake Maggiore lies in PIedmont and Lombardy, with the northern section a part of Switzerland.

Lake Como may steal the headlines with news of celebrity visits and sky-high villa prices, but its neighbor Lake Maggiore, a stellar, lower-key destination, provides much of what Como has to offer—an ethereal mix of Alpine and tropical scenery, splendid villas and gardens, and lake-focused sports— without a lot of the crowds and, often, at lower costs. Maggiore, lying in both Lombardy and Piedmont, with the northernmost section easing into Switzerland, is only about an hour’s drive from Milan’s Malpensa airport, if you head to Stresa, one of the lake’s best-known towns. In Stresa you’ll find the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées, a favorite of European elites for decades, and where Ernest Hemingway once stayed, drawing on the setting in A Farewell to Arms . The other-worldly Borromean Islands, a short ferry ride from Stresa, most of them still owned by the aristocratic family of the same name, are must-sees, particularly Isola Bella with its palazzo and lavish gardens. In Verbania, about a 20-minute drive from Stresa, the Villa Taranto botanical gardens are a highlight. As in Como, there are many lakeside villages to explore, like Baveno, two miles from Stresa, where Winston Churchill honeymooned (at the Lido Palace Hotel). A wonderful sea promenade and historic villas and parks are among the town’s attractions. On the eastern side of the lake in Lombardy, don’t miss Luino—with an artisan-rich historic center and robust market held on Wednesdays.

Get to know Tuscany’s seaside wine country.

The entrance to the village of Bolgheri.

The Viale dei Cipressi.

Although a region lauded for its cultural riches, beautiful pastoral landscapes and wine villages, Tuscany has a splendid coast reaching from the southern Italian Riviera to Lazio, with posh resorts like Forte dei Marmi and Porto Ercole punctuating each end. If you’re interested in sampling great wines and being near the sea , all while exploring less crowded areas, head to Bolgheri, about an hour’s drive south of Livorno. The surrounding wine district, Bolgheri DOC , is known for producing some of Italy’s most notable (and expensive) wines, the Super Tuscans. You can visit a number of top wine estates (make reservations) for tours and tastings, like Ornellaia, which organizes sunset wine dinners and wine picnics; Castello del Terriccio, producer of Lupicaia, with a noted restaurant, Terraforte; and Tenuta Argentiera, which also offers customized wine lunches. Bolgheri is the site of one of the most famous roads in the world, the Viale dei Cipressi, a photogenic five-kilometer corridor lined with thousands of cypress trees.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, go to the western part of the italian riviera ..

The coastline and old town of Noli, once an independent maritime republic like Venice and Genoa.

The Italian Riviera has two distinct parts: its eastern portion, the Riviera di Levante, is where most international travelers go, seeking out destinations like the Cinque Terre villages and glamorous Portofino. And do they seek them out! More than two million visitors descend upon Cinque Terre each year. Portofino, a village of some 400 inhabitants, has, at times, become so inundated that local officials initiated selfie fines. But you can experience a a quieter and stunning stretch of the Italian coast if if you turn west when you reach Genoa and travel along the Riviera di Ponente.

Alassio is known for its sandy beaches. Above, a seaside club next to the Torrione della Coscia, ... [+] built in the sixteenth century.

Here you can stop by seaside towns that aren’t overrun with tourists, although some get busy in summer. Among the places to consider are Celle Ligure, Cervo and Noli, once an independent maritime republic (like Pisa and Venice); all are included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy ( I Borghi più Belli d’Italia ). Also to discover are the heritage resort towns which have been popular since the 19th century, when the prime Riviera season was in winter and northern European and Russian aristocrats came to escape the long winters back home. These include Bordighera, an elegant town with many Belle Epoque villas and the longest seaside promenade in Liguria; and Alassio, a lively haven with fine sandy beaches, a family-friendly atmosphere and an Anglo flavor, a legacy of the English travelers who began visiting in the 1800s. Stylish Sanremo attracts a discreet, monied crowd, with yachts gliding over from the nearby Côte d’Azur. The Royal Hotel Sanremo, as its name implies, has attracted many big-name royals over the decades, along with Hollywood and music-world “aristocracy,” who come for the Sanremo Festival and in warm-weather to vacation in a stunning, flower-bedecked setting.

Beyond Amalfi, try the Cilento Coast.

The Baia degli Infreschi along the Cilento Coast.

With the popularity of the Amalfi Coast increasing at an alarming clip each year , despite complaints of overtourism, anyone wanting to experience southern Italy’s coastal beauty in quieter ways would be wise to spend some time south of Salerno, along the less frenetic shores of the Costiera Cilentana , or Cilento Coast. Reaching roughly from Paestum’s seaside to the Basilicata border, Cilento gives you a chance to time travel and get a sense of what Amalfi towns were like before their overwhelming celebrity, although its attractive beaches have long made them a favorite of Italian vacationers.

The Temple of Hera in Paestum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While not yet a glitterati magnet, Cilento attracts its share of VIP visitors, like Luca Cordero di Montezemolo, former head of Ferrari and among Italy’s most prominent business figures; Joe Biden visited Santa Maria di Castellabate when he was vice-president.

There are a number of coastal towns to choose from, like Agropoli (7 miles from Paestum); Castellabate, where you’ll find the grand Palazzo Belmonte hotel, originally built in the 17th century; Palinuro; and Marina di Camerota. But Cilento is more than its beaches. Unesco World Heritage describes Cilento as “an outstanding cultural landscape.” In addition to Paestum, famous for its splendid ancient Greek temples, there are other notable sites, like Velia, a Greek, then Roman city; and Certosa di San Lorenzo di Padula, a medieval monastery complex. The Cilento is also renowned for its robust Mediterranean cooking and for having a high percentage of centenarians.

Catherine Sabino

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More Americans are moving to Tuscany, where their money goes further, the pace is slower, and the wine flows freely

  • More Americans are moving to Tuscany, a part of Italy known for medieval walled cities and wine.
  • They're drawn by greater affordability, the charm of the local culture, and its relative safety.
  • Some locals say it's keeping their economy alive, but others are starting to grumble.

Insider Today

Leanne Davis has always had a taste for wine.

The California native runs her own winery, Via Romano Vineyards, outside Sacramento. So it's perhaps little surprise that her love of the grape is leading her to her next home: Tuscany, the lush enclave in central Italy famed for its vine-covered hills and bushy olive trees.

A decade ago, Davis and her husband, Jon Chewning, fell in love with the region when they were married by the mayor of Montepulciano, a romantic hilltop town about an hour and a half from Florence, the regional capital.

Over the years, the couple returned, leading clients of their wine club on tours. Davis and Chewning were so enchanted that, in 2022, they spent $32,000 on a home in Boccheggiano, a medieval town about two hours northeast of Florence.

Davis and Chewning were already repeat customers in Boccheggiano, having co-purchased a $28,000 vacation home with friends there three years earlier. Now, they're planning to be fully settled in Tuscany by next year.

"It's got everything," Davis told Business Insider. "It's beautiful. It has fantastic wines, the landscape is just unbeatable. It almost looks like a painting." Most importantly, she added, "the people are so friendly."

The couple is part of a growing wave of Americans relocating to Tuscany for part or all of the year, trading their Bud Lights, hamburgers, and white picket fences for free-flowing local wine, platters of charcuterie and cheese, and stately villas that date back centuries.

Some, like Davis and Chewning, are moving because they prefer a slower-paced lifestyle full of food and beautiful vistas. Others are motivated by Tuscany's relative affordability, made even cheaper by a strong dollar — especially as the cost of living and retiring in the US has skyrocketed. It's also historic, art-filled, and objectively gorgeous.

"It just felt like it was basically living in a museum, an outdoor museum where everything has a story — every street, every bridge, every arch," said Georgette Jupe, a 39-year-old American communications consultant who moved back to Florence in September.

While Florence has long been the main port of call for American expats, real-estate agents and locals say more newcomers are pouring into smaller towns . On par with Boccheggiano or Montepulciano, where Davis and Chewning have ties, are the walled cities of Lucca and Siena.

The influx of Americans, locals said, can be at once a booster of fortunes and an irritating imposition. They bolster the property market: Home prices in Lucca went up 6% from 2021 to 2022, in part due to foreign investment, according to real-estate consulting firm Knight Frank. Americans hire property managers and caretakers; they spend money in stores, at bars, and in restaurants.

But some Italians worry about the outsize role Americans play, especially in Florence. Dozens of American universities have outposts in the city, attracting roughly 15,000 college students each year. American tourists love Florence, but their presence has consequences — like a sharp increase in the number of Airbnbs that the Associated Press reported makes it hard for local doctors to afford to live near the city center.

Other downsides to the region's popularity, some residents added, include being priced out by the deeper-pocketed newcomers, and more mundane concerns like traffic and crowds.

For many Americans, though, Tuscany remains a dream.

Davis said locals often assume she's on vacation. When she tells them that she owns a home in Boccheggiano, they're confused.

"They're like, 'Why would an American want to come and live in such a tiny town?'" she said. "When we tell them it's the quality of life or it's the slow pace or the people — or whatever — they just say, 'Oh, we've always dreamed of moving to California.'"

American interest in Tuscany is on the rise

Throughout the pandemic years, Americans have flocked to Europe , seeking more affordable lifestyles with more manageable paces .

Tuscany has its own charm. Relatively sequestered from the hustle and bustle of Rome or the crowded canals and alleyways of Venice, Tuscany's rise in 21st-century popular culture is often tied to Frances Mayer's 1996 memoir " Under the Tuscan Sun : At Home in Italy," about a woman who moves to Italy after a divorce, buys a dilapidated farmhouse, and finds love again.

Almost 30 years later, it's easy to see the region's continuing allure. Numbeo, a data provider that uses self-reported stats to track the cost of living worldwide, says it's nearly 20% cheaper to live in Italy than in the US, on average. Inflation has also risen at a slower clip , and average life expectancy is a few years longer .

Michele Capecchi, a lawyer in Florence who helps Americans secure Italian citizenship, opens his inbox every Monday morning to find about 150 new emails — roughly a third of which are from Americans seeking help in relocating to Italy.

"You read about Italy, and the sun, the culture. Of course, the bureaucracy doesn't help," Capecchi said. "But the standard of living , the cost of living — there are multiple factors that make Italy very attractive for a lot of people."

Americans can stay in Italy visa-free for up to 90 days. After that, non-residents need to obtain a permit of stay, according to the US Department of State .

Erin Lewis, an American yoga instructor who has lived in Italy full-time since 2015, currently lives near the Tuscan city of Chiusi. Lewis, 43, and her partner, whom she met in Italy, bought land and broke ground on a house in 2020.

"I had no Italian blood, but I just felt like somewhere deep down, maybe I was an Etruscan in a past life or something," said Lewis, referring to an ancient people who inhabited the area millennia ago. "I just felt totally at home and wanted to find a way back."

In recent years, more American friends of Lewis' have sought her advice about making the move to Italy themselves. Many are hoping to get away from America's tenuous political landscape and the plague of gun violence, she said.

The number of Americans registering to live in Italy is indeed rising, data show. It jumped from 3,951 in 2019 up to 6,813 in 2022 (the most recent year for which data is available) — a 42% increase in just four years, according to the Italian National Institute of Statistics. The number of Americans specifically calling the region of Tuscany home increased by 6% between 2019 and 2023, growing from 2,193 four years ago to 2,323 now, according to the institute's foreign census data.

Italian home-listing website Gate-away.com told BI that 29% of its inquiries in 2023 came from Americans. And 20% of those inquiries — the most of any region — were for properties in Tuscany.

Danilo Romolini, a specialist in Italian luxury home sales at Christie's International Real Estate, said that 40% of new requests he fields come from the US — a figure that's been on the rise during the pandemic years.

Emboldened by the dollar's recent strength, he added, some buyers are even confident enough to pull the trigger, sight-unseen. Recently, he sold a more than 4,000-square foot farmhouse with sweeping views of the Val di Chiana and a listing price of 1.6 million euros ($1.7 million) to an automobile-industry professional from Austin, Texas.

Locals' response to the influx of Americans is mixed

Luca Tudor runs AJ Tuscany, an upscale jewelry boutique on Montepulciano's steep main artery, Via di Gracciano nel Corso.

Tudor, who's called the region home since he was 12, says the arrival of so many Americans —  a phenomenon that's become "bigger and bigger in the last two, three years" — is helping keep the ancient cities that dot the landscape from turning into ghost towns.

"A lot of people love what is called 'piazza life,'" Tudor, 33, explained, "which means getting into your own apartment and never taking the car again."

Sam D'Avanzo, a 29-year-old Florence native who owns a nightclub and concierge travel service in the city, said the influx of American residents has buoyed local lifestyle and entertainment businesses.

Americans may eat out as often as two or three times a week, he said, whereas Tuscans might only dine out a few times a month. In a typical meal, he added, Americans tend to spend 30% to 40% more on food and drink than Italian diners do.

Some family friends of D'Avanzo's from Houston, Texas, recently bought a five-bedroom apartment in Florence's historic center, he said. Now they live there year-round.

Not all locals seem so enthused.

"For everyone who will say that international investors or people deciding to move their life here is a good thing for our economy, you will find someone there that says they are actually depriving Tuscany or local citizens of entire pieces of their city," Capecchi, the Italian lawyer, said.

One area where tensions appear to be running high is in schools, which have become so inundated with inquiries from foreign families that some have been relegated to waiting lists, Capecchi added.

In years past, many American families would come for a year or two to soak up Italian culture before moving home, but now some are staying longer.

At the International School of Florence, which has served Florence's English-speaking community since 1952, 27% of this year's class is made up of American students, versus 23% last year and fewer than 20% during pre-COVID times, according to the school's admissions office. In conversations with administrators, the admissions office added, parents often cite quality of life and alarm over US school safety as reasons they've made the move.

"We are reached by a lot of families who say, 'We're sick and tired of having our kids having to do shooting drills in the school,'" Capecchi said, adding that some families have likened attending US elementary schools with metal detectors to going to the airport.

In private Facebook groups for Italians, some locals vent about more cumbersome summertime traffic getting in pedestrians' way. "A lot of locals say that a place like Montepulciano cannot handle all those tourists because it's a small city," said Tudor, the jeweler.

Tourism alone, though, doesn't seem to account for the increase in Americans since pandemic lockdowns started to subside. In fact, tourism numbers haven't quite rebounded to pre-COVID levels, according to data from Federalberghi, an Italian hospitality industry trade association. In 2019, before the pandemic, Tuscany received 1.05 million tourists. In 2022, it welcomed 956,000 visitors.

Some American residents who are staying for the long term seem aware of the effect they've having.

"A lot of locals have seen themselves priced out of rentals," said Jupe, who returned to Florence in 2023 after a three-year stint in Switzerland. She conceded that some locals struggle to find affordable properties to rent or buy: "There are so many people that want to live here. And so, of course, that can cause a bit of resentment."

Newcomers also bring new opportunities

Bendetta Ercolani, 31, lives in an apartment block in Montepulciano where she's the only Italian. One other resident is Albanian, she said, while the remaining two units are home to American families.

Her family owns a winery that has used traditional methods to produce their vintages for generations. But newcomers from the States have even local stalwarts like the Ercolanis contemplating new opportunities.

In 2021, Cantina Ercolani debuted its first sparkling wine. It was a decision partly influenced by Americans, Ercolani said, who were seeking a thirst quencher to cool off during sweltering Tuscan summers.

The sparkler is made entirely from Sangiovese grapes harvested on the family's land. At first, she said, Cantina Ercolani tested a production of about 3,000 bottles, and now it's scaling up, with another 5,000 on the way.

Americans, Ercolani said, "spend money and they appreciate the quality of the food and the wine that we have."

"Tuscany," she added, is "like a brand."

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  1. Traveling Tuscany on a Budget

    Seek out freebies and all-access passes. 2. For country or seaside escapes, think outside the box. 3. Skip the tip. 4. Try this meal plan: countertop coffee at breakfast, long and leisurely lunch, low-key dinner. 5. Travel during "low season".

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    An Affordable Day Tour In Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti. For those looking to indulge their senses in the sights and flavors of Tuscany on a budget, we recommend this ideal day tour that visits Pisa, San Gimignano, and Chianti. An excursion to Pisa will be your first stop in the morning. Be sure to admire the cathedral, the baptistery ...

  3. Travel Budget for Tuscany Visit Tuscany on a Budget or Travel in Style

    Accommodation Budget in Tuscany Average Daily Costs. Calculated from travelers like you. The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Tuscany is $95 (€88). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Tuscany is $190 (€175).

  4. How to visit Tuscany cheaply: Accommodation, food and sights

    The advantage of staying in the hostel for sightseeing in Tuscany is that the village is centrally located. It's only a short bus ride to Florence or Siena, or to some of the smaller and more charming towns like San Gimignano and Volterra. To Florence, for example, the trip is slightly less than an hour and costs 3.30 euros.

  5. Tuscany on a budget: Tips for affordable travel

    Venturing to towns isn't just budget-wise; it's a detour into authentic Tuscan life away from the bustling tourist hubs. Travel from the Tuscan port city of Livorno to Pisa and back for one low price, without any hassle. Photo credit: Zuzana Paar. Shopping smart in Tuscan markets. Bring a piece of Tuscany home without splurging.

  6. Tuscany Road Trip: Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary (2024 Travel Guide)

    Costs of Traveling in Tuscany. Travel on a budget in Tuscany, from $480 − $360 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1210 − $2670 USD, and high-end from $2600 − $3770 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here.

  7. How to do Tuscany on a budget

    Fri 25 May 2012 17.45 EDT. T uscany has a pricey rep. You can spend hundreds on a hotel room or luxury villa, travel everywhere by car (diesel €1.75 a litre), and shop Florence's Via Tornabuoni ...

  8. How to Enjoy Tuscany on a Budget

    Trains in Tuscany. The train is arguably just as affordable as buses in Tuscany and we prefer this mode of travel. A train from Siena to Florence will cost you only 9.50 euros and take an hour and a half. Trains can be much more reliable when traveling in Tuscany.

  9. The Perfect Tuscany Itinerary for 3 Days, 5 Days & One Week

    If you have 10 days in Tuscany, here is how to put together an unforgettable 10-day Tuscany itinerary. Day 1: Florence, sleep in Florence. Day 2: Florence, sleep in Florence. Day 3: Pisa and Lucca day trip from Florence. Day 4: San Gimignano.

  10. Bougie on a budget: How to do Tuscany for cheap

    Hotels. While Tuscany is rife with rich hotels and boutique B&Bs, you've got a variety of options for high-end hotels on a budget. First, the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa is a gorgeous Marriott property that sits at Category 4, which makes this hotel cost just 30,000 points/night. Image courtesy of Marriott.

  11. Tuscany Travel Guide & Tips

    These lodgings are fantastic options if you travel to Tuscany on a tight budget. You'll find all the mod-cons you desire, like swimming pools and hearty breakfasts. Holiday Homes are another wonderful alternative if you'd like to avoid the crowds that hotels and hostels generally draw.

  12. Our Eight Best Tuscany Travel Tips

    Tuscany is all about the wine, and with the responsibility of the rental car comes the role of the designated driver, whereas with the train, everyone can partake. 4. Rent a villa - seriously. Far from a bling budget-breaker reserved for rappers or movie stars, renting a villa in Tuscany is simply a smart travel choice.

  13. Budget Friendly Travel in Tuscany

    Traveling Tuscany on a Budget. Choose from economical bed and breakfasts, low priced hotels or bargain deals on farmhouse or a self catering apartments. Accommodations for families, which offer a swimming pool and a large garden for romping around can also offer exceptional views and easy access to garden markets for the best buys.

  14. Tuscany travel

    Aug 4, 2023 • 11 min read. Follow our local advice on the best ways to really experience this classic region of Italy. Art. The Uffizi Gallery's hidden treasures are on a tour across Tuscany. Jul 15, 2021 • 2 min read. Hotels. You could win a Tuscan holiday home for the price of a $32 raffle ticket.

  15. Exploring the beauty of Tuscany: A complete travel guide

    Tuscany on a budget: Affordable travel tips and tricks. You don't need a princely budget to explore Tuscany's wonders. From free art in Florence's streets to budget-friendly trattorias serving authentic dishes, Tuscany welcomes frugal travelers with open arms. Discover pocket-friendly accommodations, plan visits during shoulder seasons ...

  16. Siena in Tuscany on a Budget

    A Budget Base for Exploring Tuscany. Siena is located in southern Tuscany, and is the ideal base for exploring the famous Tuscan countryside of hills, olive groves, farmhouses and cypress trees, and the many Tuscan hill towns. As well as being relatively inexpensive, it's the best place in the region to hire a car.

  17. Italy Budget Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    In Rome and Florence, prices throughout the year are about 20% higher than anywhere else. For those traveling with a tent, campgrounds are available around the country, usually costing between 15-30 EUR per night for a basic plot for two people. A night in a two-star budget hotel ranges between 70-125 EUR per night.

  18. Where to Stay in Tuscany: The BEST Areas in 2024

    Arezzo - One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in Tuscany. When it comes to the most unique place to stay in Tuscany, everywhere mentioned in this guide would be able to take the crown for one reason or another. What truly makes Arezzo stand out is its place as a major trading centre of industry, agriculture and gold.

  19. Travel To Tuscany On A Budget

    Travel To Tuscany On A Budget. September 20, 2022 Brinley Williams. When most people think of Italian travel, they think of expensive, high-end destinations like Rome or Venice. However, tucked away in the heart of Italy is the region of Tuscany, which is a much more affordable option for those looking to explore this beautiful country.

  20. Experience the best of Tuscany with this regional guide

    Major rental companies, such as Budget, Sixt, Hertz, operate around Tuscany, with the largest offer available in Florence and Pisa. Where to go in Tuscany. Tuscany is divided into ten provinces and people are famously proud of the defining characteristics of each. The days of warring city states are long gone, but by speaking to locals you will ...

  21. 10 Best Cheap Tuscany Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, San Gimignano, Tuscany +3 more Age Range 18 to 49 year olds Country Region Central Italy, Tuscany +1 more Operated in English Operator Italy on a Budget Tours This operator has high review ratings and responds promptly to enquiries

  22. Tuscany on a Budget: Affordable Villa Vacations You Can't Miss

    Explore Tuscany on a budget! Uncover affordable luxury villas, hidden gems, and cost-effective travel tips for a dream Tuscan adventure. About; Destinations. Mykonos 322 luxury villas. Paros 137 luxury villas. Antiparos 38 luxury villas. Corfu 76 luxury villas. Tuscany 233 luxury villas. Contact

  23. A Student's Guide to Exploring Italy on a budget

    Florence 5. Use public transportation as much as you can. Italy's public transportation is inexpensive and effective, making it a fantastic choice for travellers on a tight budget.Use the buses, trains, and trams as a substitute for a rental car or a cab. Italy's railways are dependable, reasonably priced, and connect to the majority of the country's major cities, making countrywide ...

  24. 5 Alternative Ways To Experience Italy In 2024

    Lido di Venezia is a short ferry ride to Piazza San Marco. You don't need to head to obscure, hard-to-reach parts of Italy to heed some of today's most popular travel mantras, like "escape ...

  25. Americans Are Moving to Tuscany for Cheaper, Slower Italian Lives

    The number of Americans specifically calling the region of Tuscany home increased by 6% between 2019 and 2023, growing from 2,193 four years ago to 2,323 now, according to the institute's foreign ...

  26. UK Budget: Jeremy Hunt Prepares to Hike Business Air Travel Taxes

    UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt is considering raising air passenger duty on business travel as a potential revenue-raising measure to help pay for personal tax cuts in the budget on ...