2025 Tuscany Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

⛰ [Attraction Guide] 📍 Detailed address: Tuscany (Toscana) is a famous region in central Italy, known for its beautiful scenery, rich cultural heritage, and delicious food and wine. 🔆 🚗 Transportation guide: 1️⃣ Self-driving: The provincial roads in Tuscany are all two-way single lanes. The average speed of Italians is 100 km/hr, so the speed is fast. You need to keep your distance and give way to fast cars when appropriate. 2️⃣ Train: There are trains between major cities in Tuscany, but basically the one-way trip is 2 hours. You cannot travel between small cities by train. 💕💕💕 3️⃣ Bus: There are very few bus routes in Tuscany. If you want to travel all over Tuscany by bus, it may take half a month, and you can only choose one small town a day. ❣️❣️ 🕙 Opening hours: Open all day. 🔆🔆💞 💰 Ticket price: Free admission. 🌟 Highlights: The idyllic scenery of Tuscany, with rolling hills, vast vineyards, and ancient farmhouses, is like a paradise. It is also the birthplace of the Renaissance, where countless masters of art and architecture were born! ❗️⁉️⁉️

🚗 Transportation: Don't Let the Train Drive You Crazy, Self-Driving is the Best** The beauty of Tuscany is hidden in the country roads that even navigation systems can't find. Rent a small car (a Fiat 500 is the most appropriate) and drive through the rolling vineyards and sunflower fields. Any shot you take will look like a sequel to "Under the Tuscan Sun." ⚠️ Warning: Tuscan drivers drive like they're in "The Fast and the Furious." I recommend buying full insurance. Don't ask me how I know. --- 🏡 Accommodation: Can't Afford a Castle🏰? Then Stay on a Farm! Want to experience the life of a medieval aristocrat without emptying your wallet? Agriturismo (farmhouse B&B) 🏨 is your savior! - ✅Recommended: - ✅Fattoria Poggio Alloro (near San Gimignano) – Stay in a vineyard, with breakfast included and wine🍷 tasting. The owner might even get you tipsy. - ✅Podere San Lorenzo (near Siena) – Super cheap old stone house where you can see the stars at night and be woken up by a rooster🐔 in the morning (vintage alarm clock⏰, free!). 💰 Price: €50–€80/night, cheaper than a hostel in Florence! --- 🍝 Food and Drink: Tuscans Teach You "Carbs with Carbs" The Italian logic for eating: **"Not enough bread🍞? Have some more bread!"** 1. Must-try foods: - ✅Ribollita (vegetable and bread soup) – It's basically just leftover bread stew, but the Tuscans have turned it into a non-material cultural heritage food. - ✅Pici Cacio e Pepe (thick noodles + cheese + black pepper) – Even better than in Rome, the noodles are thick enough to jump rope with. - ✅Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine T-bone steak) – I recommend sharing one steak between three people, otherwise your wallet will be "grilled" like the steak. 2. Wine🍷 Freedom: - ✅Chianti Classico – You can buy a decent bottle for €5, cheaper than mineral water! - ✅Brunello di Montalcino – Pretend you know a lot about wine, take a sip and say, "Hmm, I can taste the oak." (Even if you can't taste anything) 3. Money-saving tips: - ✅Go to an Enoteca (wine bar) for lunch, order a glass of wine and get free snacks, enough to fill you up! - ✅Buy Prosciutto (ham) + Pecorino (sheep cheese) + bread from the supermarket. A picnic is 100 times better than a restaurant! 🍞 --- 🎪 What to Do: Besides Daydreaming, What Else Can You Do? 1. Florence: - ✅Uffizi Gallery – See Botticelli's "Primavera" and think, "Why isn't my life this beautiful?" - ✅Piazzale Michelangelo – Climb up and pant like a dog, but the sunset is so beautiful that you'll forget who you are. 2. Siena: - ✅Piazza del Campo – Lie on the ground and bask in the sun, pretending to be a medieval tax-evading merchant. - ✅Siena Cathedral – The black and white stripes look like a pedestrian crossing. Walking inside makes you feel like you're about to travel through time. 3. San Gimignano: - ✅Medieval Towers – Your legs will be weak when you climb up, but the view will make you forget your fear of heights. - ✅Gelateria Dondoli (World Champion Ice Cream) – The pistachio flavor is so good you'll want to change your name to "Pistachio." 4. Val d'Orcia: - ✅Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta – Take a photo like the "Windows desktop" wallpaper. - ✅Bagno Vignoni Hot Springs Town – Soak in the same hot springs as the ancient Romans and imagine you're Caesar (but your wallet is a slave). --- 💡 Ultimate Money-Saving Tips - ✅Don't eat in the scenic area. Walk a few steps into the alley and the price will be cut in half. - ✅Buy a Tuscany pass to enter churches and museums. It's cheaper than buying tickets individually. - ✅Learn a few Italian phrases: "Quanto costa?" (How much does it cost?) + "Troppo!" (Too expensive!), and the owner might give you a discount.

Italy's Tuscany 🇮🇹 has a Mediterranean climate, and February is winter. Although the temperature is not particularly low, around 5-15°C, it rains a lot. Imagine you plan to walk in the fields and enjoy the iconic pastoral scenery, but it rains all the time, which will not only affect your experience, but also make the beautiful scenery less attractive. Moreover, the grass has not completely turned green at this time, and the scenery does not have that vibrant feeling. · 🎈Best time to visit The best time to visit Tuscany is actually from April to October. From April to May, wildflowers bloom all over the mountains, and the green grass is like a huge velvet carpet. The pastoral scenery is full of spring vitality. September to October is autumn, when grapes are ripe, making it a good time to experience grape picking and wine making, and you can also see the autumn scenery. · 🏰Attractions 🔺Siena: A medieval-style town, the shell square in the ancient city is a must-see. The famous Siena Horse Race Festival is held here every year. 🔺Florence: The birthplace of the Renaissance, the Uffizi Gallery houses a large number of Renaissance paintings, and the Michelangelo Square offers a panoramic view of the city. 🔺San Gimignano: Famous for its many towers, it is known as the "Medieval Manhattan". Walking on the ancient streets, you will feel like you have traveled back in time. · 🍷Food recommendations 🔺Florentine steak: Made from local Chianina beef, it is tender and juicy, grilled to medium rare, and the aroma of the meat fills your mouth with every bite. 🔺Tuscan bread soup: Made with stale bread, vegetables, and olive oil, it is rich in flavor and a traditional local delicacy. 🔺Tiramisu: Although its origin is controversial, Tuscan tiramisu has its own unique flavor. The sweet mascarpone cheese and coffee liqueur-soaked ladyfingers are very satisfying. · ✅Recommended itineraries (Transportation + attractions + guide) 🚩Florence round-trip 💰San Gimignano + Chianti + Siena 💰Leaning Tower of Pisa + San Gimignano + Siena 💰Montalcino + Pienza + Montepulciano 💰Val d'Orcia + Pienza + San Gimignano 💰San Gimignano + Siena + Pienza + S/Cypress Avenue 🚩Rome round-trip 💰Montepulciano + Sant'Antimo + Pienza 💰Orvieto + Civita di Bagnoregio + Montepulciano 💰Pienza + Montalcino + Sant'Antimo

Watching the sunset in Tuscany is an unforgettable moment in my life, it is a uniquely Italian romance! Let us step into the real scene of the movie "Under the Tuscan Sun" and start the Italian summer with the style of Tuscany! When you feel down, frustrated, and lost in life, head to Tuscany. Feel the breeze on the vast meadow, take a leisurely stroll in the woods, play lazily with the kittens in the B&B, and enjoy a glass of red wine with dinner, and all your worries will disappear! - ✅Here are some of the must-see attractions in Tuscany: 1⃣️S-shaped cypress tree📍Agriturismo baccoleno This is a beautiful photo spot, you can capture beautiful moments no matter how you shoot! 2⃣️Double-rowed cypress avenue 📍Viale di cipressi I personally think the side view is more appealing than the front view, so it’s a good idea to take the picture from the side. 3⃣️Round cypress tree 📍Cipressi di san quirico dorcia It is beautifully situated in the middle of a large lawn. 4⃣️Little Ear Church📍Chapel Vitaleta After parking, we walked there. The scenery along the way was picturesque, with large fields of flowers and a small lake. - ⚠️Tips: The best way to explore Tuscany is by car! Wearing light-colored clothes will make your photos more colorful.

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A wonderful day tour from Florence on our 2019 Italian Trip. While the weather was a bit grey (it was December after all) we were lucky because it only rained while we were on the bus travelling between quaint Tuscan towns. Starting our day earlier we boarded a motor coach from Piazzale Montelugno heading out of the city towards the Tuscan country side. It wasn't long before we started to see the rolling green hills that are strongly associated with the Tuscan region. Our first stop was San Gimignano with its local handcraft stores and stone architecture. We were given a bit of time to wander here and explore however we pleased before returning to our bus to carry on to Monteriggioni. It was a short stop here as most everything was closed for the season however it was good to walk around the walled town. The history in this town was very apparent. Our next stop was Siena where we dined on delicious Tuscan inspired food before spending so free time walking around. The town was much bigger than I expected and a lot busier. Our final stop of the evening on our way back to Florence was a cute little kitschy vineyard in the Chianti region where was sampled a number of their own produced wines. A very enjoyable experience. #gooutside

#Overseas Travel We arrived at Colle di Val d’Elsa, a small town located on a hill in Tuscany. This place has not been touristized, and the atmosphere of the ancient city is retained in every corner. Here you can truly enjoy the small town style and beautiful pastoral atmosphere, and feel that tranquil Tuscany is a pure paradise! It's really nice to see the scenery from the ancient city on the hill. It is located between Siena and San Gimignano. It takes about half an hour to take a bus from Siena to Colle di Val d’Elsa. This is one of the must-go places on the famous walking trail Via Francigena💛 #Overseas Travel #Italy Travel #Europe Travel

In the area near Siena the landscape is so pure, characteristic and imprinted on our minds as the quintessential image of Tuscany that it’s part of UNESCO World Heritage site list. Hills and ravines comprise the countryside, but it’s the cypress trees that steal the scene, surrounding isolated hilltop hamlet and marking roads in tidy rows. The river that gave its name to the valley is little more than a brook, which dries up for most of the year due to the summer heat, but returns with force with the autumn rain. Oak forests, olive groves and vineyards that produce Brunello and other fine Tuscan wines extend across the hillsides, next to characterful monuments and villages. Italy’s oldest extinct volcano in Italy, Monte Amiata, hems in the landscape to the west. Tracing the curvature of the hills, start exploring from on high, at Radicofani Fortress, boasting views across the valley. Next, head for romantic Pienza, the ideal city and the setting of Zeffirelli’s film “Romeo and Juliet”. Delve into the cypresses of San Quirico, skirting Castiglione and continuing to Montalcino to sip a fine Brunello. With your senses fully awakened, a visit to San Giovanni d’Asso’s Truffle Museum is a must. To unwind after all your travelling, stop in Bagno Vignoni, famous for its striking thermal water baths in the town square, and Bagni San Filippo, where water rises from the heart of the volcano, gushing forth and creating concretions of rare beauty, a source of health and wellness for millennia. #mynovgetaway #thanksgiving #mynovgetaway#thanksgiving

Tuscany with its vast meadows ✔️ If you want to truly feel Italy while drinking Italian wine with steak while looking at the background of the window screen, be sure to take a winery tour. ✔️ Maximus' house is a must-see photo zone. There are many ways to get there, such as renting a car or taking a tour. Renting a car is not recommended even if you are confident in driving because of the ZLT (vehicle-free zone_you may not be able to see it well and enter without knowing it). ✔Gelateria Dondoli in San Gimignano, a small city in the Tuscan region, is a gelato champion shop. Personally, it was the best gelato I've had in Italy.

A lot of towers and halls. historical.

If you’re in Pisa, Il Ristoro della Pe' is a must—don’t miss their truffle pasta, fresh salad, and one of the best tiramisus I’ve had. For a surprising twist, Ravioli Zhao blew me away with the best dumplings of my life—seriously worth the detour. Grom’s pistachio gelato was creamy and satisfying, though not mind-blowing. Skip Branzo—the food was okay but nothing special. The next day in Florence, dive into the Mercato Centrale and try the beef tongue stall—tender, flavorful, and highly recommended. Just next to it, grab a tiramisu latte—a fun local twist. For a sweet Florentine classic, head to Gilli for their maritozzo—fluffy and indulgent. I also took a pasta-making class, which was fun and hands-on, and finally tried the famous affogato—espresso over gelato, the perfect pick-me-up.

👍 Pros: ❶ Customizable itinerary! From Swiss snowy landscapes to Tuscan countryside and the Mediterranean in southern Italy, you can check off all the popular spots without missing a single one—definitely worth the price. ❷ Private car for the entire trip! Saves time, effort, and hassle. However, private car rentals in Europe are expensive, as they include driver accommodations and labor costs. Traveling with four people and splitting the cost can save a lot. 👎 Lessons learned: ❶ Don’t overpack your schedule! A 15-day trip can make you homesick by day 10. A 7-10 day trip is more comfortable; anything longer can feel exhausting. ❷ Cultural tours can be tiring! Constant sightseeing every day left us breathless until we reached Tuscany and southern Italy. Regret not choosing a relaxing island getaway. ❸ Private cars aren’t always the best option! Taxis are more cost-effective in cities. Private cars are only necessary for intercity travel or remote attractions; using them for the entire trip is too expensive. ❹ Don’t blindly choose expensive hotels! Since you’ll be out during the day, four-star or chain three-star hotels are sufficient. Opt for hotels with pools and gardens only for vacation stays.

Italy's Most Healing Slow Travel Experience Found in Tuscany 🏰 San Gimignano: How to Explore This Medieval Town? Must-visit spots: Piazza della Cisterna (Central Square), Torre Grossa (Climb for panoramic views📸), Gelateria Dondoli (Award-winning gelato shop) Photo tips: Cobblestone streets and tower silhouettes, best captured in soft morning or evening light Food recommendations: Pici al cinghiale (wild boar pasta), truffle pasta🍝 💡 Suggested duration: Half a day to one day is enough; photography enthusiasts might consider staying overnight ☀️ Siena: Complete Guide to the Square and Cathedral Piazza del Campo: A shell-shaped square perfect for sunbathing and relaxation🌞 Duomo di Siena: Book tickets in advance to admire the intricate mosaic floors and library frescoes Activities: Climb Torre del Mangia for a bird's-eye view of the city Food recommendations: Ricciarelli (Siena almond cookies) + local sweet wine Vin Santo 💡 Suggested duration: One day; history and art lovers may want to linger longer 🌾 Tuscan Countryside: Driving Routes and Photo Spots 🚗 Recommended driving route: Florence → San Gimignano → Siena → Val d’Orcia Val d’Orcia photo spots: Cypress Avenue (Cipressi di San Quirico)🌳 Vitaleta Chapel⛪ (perched on a distant hill, perfect for photos) Montalcino wine town, famous for Brunello wine🍷 📸 Photography tips: Capture towns in morning mist and sunrise; shoot hills and fields during sunset Wear a flowing dress or linen shirt for dynamic portrait shots 🍷 Farmhouse Experience: Eat, Stay, and Play All in One Accommodation recommendations: Agriturismo farmhouses (e.g., Agriturismo Il Rigo, Podere Belvedere) Advantages: Wake up to vineyard and hill views; breakfast made with farm-fresh ingredients Activities: 🍇 Grape and olive picking 🍷 Wine tasting (hosts often share wine knowledge) 🍝 Cooking lessons with local chefs: Learn to make Pici pasta or handmade pizza, followed by a long-table dinner featuring rustic bread, fresh olive oil, cured meats, cheeses, and homemade wine—a true feast of happiness 🌟 Practical Tips: Best seasons: May-June, September-October for comfortable weather, ripe grapes, and beautiful lighting Transportation: Rent a car at Florence or Pisa airport; manual cars are cheaper. Paid parking available in towns (1-2€/hour) Tickets: Book cathedral and tower tickets in advance to skip lines Internet: Weak signal at farmhouses; bring portable WiFi or eSIM Luggage: Avoid large suitcases due to hilly terrain; pack comfortable shoes, a sunhat, and sunglasses Photography gear: Drones capture stunning countryside views (check with farmhouses for permission) ✨ The beauty of Tuscany lies not in a quick visit but in staying longer and slowing down to truly experience it 👉 Which town do you want to explore? San Gimignano or Siena? Let’s chat in the comments!

#mediterranean If you’re planning a trip through Italy, Florence (or Firenze) is one of those cities that absolutely must be on your list — even if you only have one day. The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is packed with culture, stunning architecture, delicious Tuscan food and a romantic energy that lingers in every street. 📜 a touch of history: Florence rose to power in the Middle Ages and reached its golden age in the 15th century under the powerful Medici family, who were patrons of artists like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. It became a cultural capital that transformed Europe forever. Today, that same spirit still lives in its museums, churches and palaces. 🚆 how to get there: Florence is easily accessible by train. From Rome, it’s just under 1.5 hours on the high-speed Frecciarossa train (around €20–€50), and from Milan, about 2 hours. Once in the city, everything is walkable from Santa Maria Novella train station. 🗺️ one-day itinerary: 8:30 AM – Piazza del Duomo Start early and visit the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo). Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome for panoramic views of the city (€15–€20, includes the Baptistery and bell tower). 10:30 AM – Piazza della Signoria & Palazzo Vecchio Walk over to this open-air museum where Michelangelo’s David (a replica) stands. If time allows, explore Palazzo Vecchio inside. 12:00 PM – Uffizi Gallery (optional) If you’re an art lover, reserve tickets in advance to the Uffizi Gallery (€12–€20). It’s home to works by Botticelli (The Birth of Venus), Caravaggio, Raphael, and many more. 1:30 PM – Lunch near the Arno Grab a Tuscan-style lunch — maybe pici pasta, ribollita soup, or bistecca alla fiorentina if you’re up for a real feast. Try Trattoria ZaZa or La Fettunta for great quality and local vibes. 3:00 PM – Ponte Vecchio Cross the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest bridge, famous for its hanging jewelry shops and river views. Don’t forget a photo here. 4:00 PM – Palazzo Pitti & Boboli Gardens Cross over into the Oltrarno district and visit this grand Medici palace (€10–€15) and stroll the peaceful Boboli Gardens behind it for fresh air and greenery. 6:00 PM – Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo Walk or taxi up to Piazzale Michelangelo for the best sunset view in Florence. It’s a sweeping panorama of the entire city and the Arno River — magical golden hour guaranteed. 🍷 8:00 PM – Aperitivo or dinner End your day with aperitivo (a drink + small bites) at SE·STO on Arno or a dinner in San Frediano, Florence’s cool, artsy neighborhood. 💸 budget tips: A full day with attractions, food, and transport can cost anywhere between €60–€100, depending on which museums you choose to enter and your dining style. 🎨 trip planning advice: If you’re staying overnight, book accommodation near the Duomo or train station for convenience. Buy museum tickets in advance (especially the Uffizi and Dome climb). Florence gets very busy in peak months (May–September), so early st

A happy trip to Italy with my company senior! Italy was truly beautiful If I have another chance, I want to go again I hope I can travel more leisurely that time..! #Overseas travel #European travel #Travel plan #The best #Like

"The Soul of Tuscany: A Flowing Masterpiece" When the midday sun begins to slant, Tuscany loosens its golden belt, Letting hills stretch in the warm breeze— Those undulations are silk ribbons of time. Vineyards compose sonnets in purple-red syntax, Writing across sunlit slopes; In the silver-gray silence of olive groves, Lies the gaze of an entire medieval era. Farmhouse clay jars brim with sunset, Pouring honey-thick sunlight; Stone bell towers stand amid wheat fields, Turning chimes into amber-hued sugar. Those mottled surfaces aren't merely walls, But time's gentle brushstrokes at play: Ocher, vermilion, faded peacock blue— Suddenly the earth begins to spin! Oh, this eternal improvisation! When mist rises from valley floors, The entire landscape starts to flow— Tuscany, you were always A canvas God forgot among mortals.

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip Lucca, the ancient capital of Tuscany, is a unique city whose entire city is surrounded by walls. The top of the walls is a promenade, and you can cycle around it! 🚴♀️ When I actually visited, I felt like I was in a movie, riding along the quiet roads surrounded by greenery and looking at the historic streets. You can cycle leisurely with your partner, or enjoy reading a book or a cafe by yourself. You can relax and unwind on this trip away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist spots. 📍Access: About an hour and a half by train from Florence. The old town is about a 10-minute walk from the station. 🚉 🎯Travel Tips: ・You can rent a bicycle near the entrance to the old town. ・The top of the walls is empty in the morning, so it's comfortable! ・Make sure to try the local delicacies "Farinata" and "Lucca-style lasagna" 🍽️ #Lucca #WalledCity #CyclingTrip #DomesticTrip #CoupleTrip #SoloTrip #AbsolutelyFreeTrip

📍Tuscany Located in central Italy, Tuscany is a place where you can experience diverse natural beauty. It boasts stunning landscapes filled with trees and a peaceful atmosphere that is truly captivating. With Florence nearby, it's a great area to explore together, offering the charm of Italy's small towns. If you enjoy the laid-back and tranquil vibe of small towns, a trip to Tuscany in Italy is highly recommended.

📍 Location and Overview Villa Cetina is situated in the Tuscany region of Italy, a quintessential countryside estate surrounded by stunning vineyards and olive groves. Combining traditional stone architecture with modern amenities, it is perfect for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in rural life. 🛏️ Accommodation Highlights The villa offers spacious suites and private apartments equipped with modern kitchens, private pools, and tranquil courtyards, providing guests with a secluded and comfortable space to relax. 🌿 Nearby Activities Explore Tuscany's charming towns and historical sites Savor local wines and traditional cuisine Cycle or hike through vineyards and olive groves Join cooking classes to experience authentic Italian home cooking 🚗 Transportation Tips Driving is the most convenient option, with Florence or Siena approximately an hour's drive away. Parking is available nearby. 👟 Helpful Suggestions Book in advance to secure your preferred dates Purchase local ingredients to enjoy cooking in the villa's kitchen Bring suitable clothing and footwear for outdoor activities 🌟 Summary Villa Cetina blends classic Tuscan countryside charm with modern comforts, making it an ideal vacation choice for families, friends, or couples to enjoy a serene rural getaway.

🚗 Day 1: Artistic Ancient City · Pastoral Valleys Florence Departure Start your journey from Florence and head south along the SR222 highway. The car window reveals endless olive groves 🌳, and after a 1.5-hour drive, you’ll arrive at a medieval gem. Siena Time Machine - Admire the Mangia Tower at Piazza del Campo and feel the thousand-year warmth of the ochre-colored buildings. - Explore Siena Cathedral ⛪, a Gothic marvel of black and white marble. - Indulge in Panforte fruitcake 🍰 hidden in the alleys, paired with a glass of Chianti red wine 🍷 to awaken your taste buds. Into the Heart of Val d’Orcia 🌳 The SR146 highway transforms into a scenic gallery. Roll down your windows to embrace: ✔️ The Chapel of Vitaleta (Cappella Vitaleta), standing solitary amidst the wheat waves 🌾. ✔️ Agriturismo Baccoleno’s panoramic view, where hay bales resemble golden buttons stitched onto the earth. ✔️ Montechiaro viewpoint, offering a bird’s-eye view of the magical curves of the countryside. Pienza’s Leisurely Hours This "ideal city" blessed by the Pope hides: 🍴 The salty symphony of Pecorino cheese 🧀 workshops. 🌿 Renaissance streets and flower-adorned balconies at Palazzo Piccolomini. 🌅 Cliffside viewpoints along the city walls, where the Val d’Orcia glows amber under the sunset. Recommended Stays ▫️ Agriturismo Poderuccio: Starry sky pool + Tuscan family-style dinner. ▫️ La Bandita Townhouse in Pienza: A blend of design and rural aesthetics. 🌳 Day 2: Cypress Road · Light and Shadow Pilgrimage Morning Light Photography Drive 15 minutes to the S-shaped Cypress Road (Cipressi di San Quirico d’Orcia). 📸 Photography Tip: Use a low-angle backlight to capture the cypress trees as ink-like silhouettes in the mist. Val d’Orcia Farm Breakfast At Fattoria Poggio Covili, hand-pick cherry tomatoes 🍒 and enjoy them with fresh olive oil and bread 🍞. San Giovanni Chapel Pilgrimage Take a 15-minute hike to the hilltop chapel for a 360° panoramic view of Tuscany’s iconic rolling hills. Montepulciano Feast Savor the flavors of this cliffside town: 🍷 Wild boar pasta infused with Vino Nobile red wine. 🧀 Cacio e pepe handmade wide pasta with cheese and pepper. ✨ Tips 1️⃣ Best Seasons: May-June for golden wheat fields / September-October for grape harvest. 2️⃣ Must-Have Gear: Wide-angle lens, sun hat.

This land steeped in the fragrance of olive oil unfolds like a Renaissance painting, stretching poetically between the Apennine Mountains and the Mediterranean. It’s the sculptural muse of Michelangelo, the olive tree shadows in Dante’s verses—every rolling hill sings a symphony of culture and nature. Step into this hidden Tuscan odyssey now! ⛺【Soul-Stirring Landmarks You Must Visit】 Florence · Uffizi Gallery & Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore Travel Guide: In the Uffizi’s corridors, Botticelli’s *The Birth of Venus* shimmers with mother-of-pearl hues at dawn, while the Medici collections hide Titian’s unfinished sketches. Breathe in the Renaissance before *Primavera*’s frescoes. Climb the Cathedral’s dome—a spiral of 463 steps—where the *Last Judgment* fresco unfolds overhead. At the summit, gaze over the city’s terracotta rooftops, like spilled ochre paint. Siena · Piazza del Campo (Shell Square) Pro Tip: The square’s fan-patterned black-and-white marble still bears medieval merchants’ price engravings. Visit during July’s Palio horse race to see 17 neighborhoods transform the square into a sand-track spectacle, complete with flag-throwers in period costumes. At dusk, sip Siena’s signature *Brunello wine slushie* with tiramisu at Caffè Il Palio, watching sunlight gild the square honey-gold. Snap a photo of pigeons darting past the clock tower—*Under the Tuscan Sun* come to life. San Gimignano · Tower Skyline & Pinocchio Immersion: This “medieval Manhattan” pierces the sky with 14 stone towers. Scale Torre Grossa for 360° views of Tuscan hills—olive groves like emerald velvet, vineyards weaving gold-and-purple nets. Classic Walk: Main Gate → Via San Matteo → Piazza della Cisterna → Torre Grossa → Piazza Duomo → Collegiata Church → Ramparts Viewpoint → Pinocchio Shop Pienza · Pastoral Utopia & Cheese Workshops Revelation: This “ideal city” by humanist designers is a Renaissance textbook. At the Bishop’s Palace, geometric gardens meet bronze sundials. The bell tower reveals Val d’Orcia—UNESCO-listed “living landscapes.” Don’t miss the *pecorino* cheese workshop: fresh sheep’s milk curds paired with local honey taste like a Tuscan sunset on your tongue. 📅【5-Day Tuscan Itinerary】 **Day 1: Florence Art Pilgrimage** - 7:30 AM: Beat crowds to the Uffizi; bask in *Venus*’ morning glow - Lunch: *Lampredotto* sandwich dunked in broth, paired with Chianti - Afternoon: Dome climb, then hand-painted postcards at Giotto’s Bell Tower - Sunset: Piazzale Michelangelo, where David turns gold **Day 2: Siena’s Medieval Treasure Hunt** - Morning: Touch the 13th-century well grille in Piazza del Campo - Lunch: *Pici al ragù* with Vernaccia white wine - Afternoon: Siena Cathedral’s *Iliad* mosaic floors - Evening: Folk songs by street musicians at Shell Square **Day 3: San Gimignano Tower Sunset** - Morning: Torre Grossa for hilltop panoramas - Lunch: Truffle pasta at La Cisterna, cheese stretching like silk - Afternoon: Ceramic workshops—owl-painted plates (local mascots) **Day 4: Pienza & Val d’Orcia** - Sunrise: Bishop’s Palace gardens, light gilding mosaic hedges - Morning: Press your own *pecorino* (souvenir-ready!) - Lunch: *Panzanella* salad with candy-sweet tomatoes - Drive: Val d’Orcia’s cypress alleys (stop at *Cipressi di San Quirico*) - Evening: Montepulciano’s *Vino Nobile* with aged pecorino **Day 5: Lucca’s Rampart Ride** - Morning: Bike Renaissance walls—Europe’s finest intact circuit - Lunch: *Porcini risotto*, saffron-kissed and earthy - Afternoon: Roman amphitheater-turned-piazza; straw hats under arcades - Sunset: Espresso while locals play tarot 🍴【Tuscan Taste Explosion】 ✔️ *Bistecca alla Fiorentina*: Only from Chianina cattle—massive, ancient, and ultra-tender ✔️ Siena’s OG tiramisu: Born here as “Duke’s Dessert” for Cosimo III de’ Medici ✔️ San Gimignano’s *cantucci*: Almond biscuits dunked in Vin Santo—Tuscany’s “tea-time soul” ✔️ Pienza *pecorino*: Sardinian sheep’s milk cheese—nutty aged or creamy fresh, best with honey 🚗【Local Secrets】 Gravel roads through cypress tunnels lead to olive groves—borrow a basket, snack straight from the tree. *This* is Tuscan authenticity. #TuscanHiddenGems #RenaissanceRoadtrip Click in! Skip tourist traps—we’ll take you deep into Tuscany, packing Renaissance light and wine aromas into your suitcase!

After visiting Tuscany, I realized how true-to-life Impressionism actually is—the Tuscan countryside itself is like an oil painting. 🌼 Starting from Florence, here's a classic one-day itinerary for Tuscany: ☑️ Siena ☑️ Val d'Orcia ☑️ Chapel Vitaleta ☑️ Pienza ☑️ Foce Poggio Covili (Double Cypress Road) ☑️ Foce S (S-Shaped Cypress Road) ⚠️ The S-curve is now closed unless you book a hotel there, but that requires a minimum 4-night stay and is quite remote, making it inconvenient for other destinations. Personally, I prefer staying around Pienza. ❤️ If you have time, I recommend spending a few extra days in Val d'Orcia. It's great for road trips, with plenty of charming B&Bs to choose from—exploring more will reveal even more breathtaking views. Tuscany, Italy

[Tuscany + Southern Italy | A Romantic Blitz Through Renaissance and Mediterranean – This is the Pinnacle of European Travel!] Sunlight tears through morning mist as cypress trees stretch their silhouettes across golden hills; the scent of lemons from cliffside towns mingles with sea breeze in your nostrils; ancient stone crevices hide love vows sealed by volcanic ash – where Tuscan idyll collides with Southern Italy's fiery passion, instantly igniting your soul's deepest yearning for freedom. Hesitate no more – this Italian dual-narrative is destined to captivate you! ⛺【Must-Do Experiences】 🌄 Tuscany: Renaissance's Color Palette, Soul-Soothing Pastoral Poetry Cruise in a Fiat convertible along SP88 or SP40 highways, where wave-like wheat fields, vineyards, and olive groves roll past your window, punctuated by cypress trees like emerald torches against the sky. Roll down your windows – even the wind carries the tipsy aroma of Chianti wine. Unmissable dreamscapes: Val d'Orcia: Step into the film set of "Under the Tuscan Sun," with the solitary Vitaleta Chapel standing like a miracle at dawn; Siena: Climb to Piazza del Campo's summit, watching ochre buildings melt into honey under sunset, while the cathedral's black-and-white marble floors conceal biblical epics; San Gimignano: Fourteen medieval stone towers pierce the blue sky – ascend for panoramic Tuscan views, then taste world-champion gelato at Gelateria Dondoli. 🍷 Flavor Highlights: Duck into Chianti's century-old wineries, sipping DOCG Sangiovese with a wedge of Pecorino cheese – Tuscany's flavor is the earth whispering with sunlight. 🌊 Southern Italy's Knockout: Cliffs, Volcanoes & Jellyfish-Sea Wild Romance "Think the French Riviera reigns supreme? You haven't seen Southern Italy!" The Amalfi Coast's cliffside towns cascade like gemstones into the Tyrrhenian Sea – every frame delivers a visual punch straight to the heart. Southern Italy's shining moments: Positano: Lemon-tree-shaded pastel houses spill down cliffs into the sea – dive into Fornillo Beach's glass-clear "jellyfish water"; Amalfi: Wander through Arabesque-striped cathedral cloisters, sipping Limoncello as Mediterranean sunshine explodes on your tongue; Capri: Boat into the Blue Grotto's magical cobalt refraction, like tumbling into God's jewelry box; Pompeii: Touch 2,000-year-old bakeries and lover's frescoes frozen in volcanic ash, feeling ancient Rome's breath and tragic demise. 🚗 Pro Transport Moves Trains: Rome-Florence-Naples roundtrips = maximum value Private cars: Skip driving drunk-on-beauty in Tuscany – let Chinese-speaking drivers handle the wheel while you soak in cypress and wine. Amalfi Coast's hairpin turns? Trust veteran drivers for the Pompeii-Sorrento leg. 9 days to squeeze every drop of brilliance! Day1-4 Rome & Tuscan Renaissance Marathon Rome → Florence → San Gimignano → Siena → Pienza Day5-8 Southern Italy Coastal Fiesta Train to Naples → Pompeii → Sorrento → Boat-hop Positano+Amalfi → Capri's Blue Grotto Day9 Rome Finale 💡 Insider Tips: Visa: Schengen (higher approval rate when applying via Italy); Seasons: May-Jun for Tuscan blooms + mild/uncrowded South; Sep for grape harvest + amber-warm seas; Money-Saver: Stay near train stations, use public transit – no need for full private transfers. 🌟Tuscan evening winds are crumbling the sunset, Amalfi's lemon trees await your serendipity— The throne of "ultimate travel" forever belongs to those bold enough to just go!

#summervacay After leaving Verona, we drove south towards Siena, eager to explore its charm and the nearby picturesque towns of Pienza and Assisi. Being in the heart of Tuscany, it was an absolute must to visit the region's famous S-curve road and the iconic Twin Cypresses – scenes straight out of a postcard! Even though these spots are incredibly popular online, arriving there in person was truly special. The rolling, verdant hillsides dotted with those classic cypress trees create an unmistakably Tuscan landscape that feels both grand and intimate. It's the kind of place where every turn offers a new, breathtaking vista. Finding the perfect vantage point for photos was an enjoyable part of the experience, capturing those serene lines and the timeless beauty that defines this region. The natural beauty here is subtle yet profound, offering a quintessential taste of the Tuscan countryside. While it might not be the dramatic, towering peaks of the Alps or the vibrant hues of some Asian landscapes, its gentle charm and classic elegance are utterly captivating. It's truly a place that allows you to breathe in the tranquility and artistry of Italy. #Tuscany #TuscanViews #ItalyTravel #Siena #Pienza #Assisi

Tuscany isn’t just a destination — it’s a feeling. Picture golden hills rolling under the softest light, vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, and tiny stone villages that seem frozen in time. 🌾🏡 Every corner of Tuscany tells a story. From the art-filled streets of Florence to the quiet charm of towns like Pienza or San Gimignano, it’s a place where history, nature, and culture live side by side. Wake up to the sound of birds, sip espresso under the sun, and watch the sky turn pink over the olive groves. Life slows down here — and that’s the magic. Whether you're wine tasting in Chianti or just enjoying a simple meal made with local love, Tuscany wraps you in warmth. It's not about ticking places off a list — it’s about savoring every moment. 🌅💛 #italy

【Opening】 Begin your journey from the grandeur of Rome, traversing through the mist-shrouded "Castle in the Sky" – Civita di Bagnoregio, the inspiration for Miyazaki's Laputa. This medieval town precariously perched on a cliff is connected to the world by a single bridge, its tuff walls whispering ancient Etruscan secrets as they erode with time. The ochre-hued alleys of Siena resemble a frozen symphony, while the curves of Piazza del Campo carry the soul of the hill town from *Under the Tuscan Sun*. The unfinished dream of the black-and-white-striped cathedral intertwines with the cheers of the Palio horse race, echoing the lingering charm of the Middle Ages. Beneath Florence's domes, the pink-and-green marble dome of Santa Maria del Fiore pierces the sky, while the brushstrokes in the Uffizi Gallery and the secret passages of Palazzo Vecchio hide the thrills of *Inferno*. The sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo casts the entire city in golden poetry. The finale rests in Arezzo, leaning against the gentle slope of Piazza Grande, gazing at the arches of Vasari's Loggia. This was the heartwarming stage for *Life Is Beautiful* and the arena for the Giostra del Saraceno's medieval jousting. Five days of travel culminate in tossing a coin into Rome's Trevi Fountain, as Tuscan vineyards and olive groves become an indelible reel in your heart. 🛬【Itinerary】 D1 *Roman Holiday* First Impressions: Arrive at Rome Fiumicino Airport, check into your hotel, and savor the eternal city's twilight and starlit night. D2 Strolling Through Rome D3 The Castle in the Sky & Tuscan Sun: Explore Civita di Bagnoregio, the prototype for Miyazaki's *Castle in the Sky*, hike the 1km boardwalk to the summit for a misty Tiber Valley vista, and enjoy handmade gelato in the old town. Wander Piazza del Campo, hunting for the iconic shutter-toned buildings from *Under the Tuscan Sun*, then sip wine at a castle winery 🍷 for a light buzz. D4 Florence's Symbolic Puzzles: Decode the Renaissance following *Inferno*. D5 Arezzo Time Machine: Roam Renaissance arcades and antique markets at *Life Is Beautiful*'s filming location. ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: Civita di Bagnoregio: Known as the "Castle in the Sky," this 2,500-year-old town clings to a clifftop, connected only by a narrow bridge, appearing like a floating fortress from afar. It inspired Miyazaki’s *Laputa: Castle in the Sky*. Ravaged by earthquakes and erosion, it’s listed among the "100 Most Endangered Sites" globally. Pienza: The heart of Tuscany, this historic gem enchants with cobblestone streets and Renaissance-era buildings. Local crafts like ceramics, textiles, and goldwork showcase Tuscan ingenuity. Savor robust red wines and regional dishes for an unforgettable culinary journey. Here, slow living reigns—a haven for art and history lovers. San Gimignano: A medieval hill town famed for its preserved towers, earning it the nickname "Medieval Manhattan." Its UNESCO-listed center transports visitors back in time with cobbled lanes and ancient squares. Renowned for saffron and artisanal gelato, it’s an idyllic escape where sipping local wine at a café unveils its timeless charm. Santa Maria del Fiore: Florence’s iconic cathedral, built from 1296–1436, dazzles with green, white, and pink marble. Inside, treasures like the *Last Judgment* dome fresco await. The complex—cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and Baptistery—is a jewel of Italian architecture. Uffizi Gallery: A "Renaissance treasure trove," ranked among the world’s top three art museums alongside the Louvre and British Museum. 🍩【Must-Try Food】 🍨 Gelato: Relive *Roman Holiday* with Hepburn’s favorite scoop by the Spanish Steps—a time-traveling bite. 😉【Unmissable Experiences】 Tuscan Winery Tasting: Renowned for Chianti Classico, Tuscany’s sun-drenched vineyards yield velvety Sangiovese wines, aged to perfection with fruity and oaky notes. Opera Concert: In Florence’s historic Santa Monaca Church, revel in live arias from *Tosca*, *The Marriage of Figaro*, *Madama Butterfly*, and *La Traviata*, surrounded by Renaissance splendor and acoustics.

#Traveling Abroad #Go Abroad 🚗About Rental Cars🚗 I rented a car from sixt at Rome Airport. The areas of Val d'Orcia and Siena that I visited this time are closer to Florence. However, the airport is in Rome, and taking a high-speed train to Florence would cost extra for the high-speed train and time, so I decided to rent a car at Rome Airport to save time and money. When I looked up the cheapest rental car at Rome Airport, it was priced from 4,000 yen per day. However, when I looked at the reviews of the cheapest places, they were all low-rated, with many posts about problems such as the car breaking down as soon as I started driving, being assigned a transmission even though I specified an automatic car, and no gas in the car. Since this was my first overseas rental car trip, I chose a safe place even though it was expensive. As a result, I was assigned an automatic car, a new car, and a FIAT, and I was able to spend the trip without any problems with the car. I was scheduled to rent the car from 9:00, but I was able to rent it at 8:30. Lucky🤞 The insurance was fully covered. It was expensive, but I was hit and run, so I'm really glad I had it 😇 If I hadn't, I might have been charged about 200,000 yen 😇 Italian drivers are rough and there are a lot of troubles, so I recommend that you don't skimp on insurance and get full coverage. Rental car fees and gasoline are expensive, There are many free parking lots, and even paid parking is about 200 yen per hour, so it's a good deal. The highway toll was about 2,000 yen round trip from Rome to the Orcia area, which was quite cheap 🫶 It was my first rental car trip, and I wasn't tied down to a time, so I could go wherever I wanted as many times as I wanted, and it was a very free and satisfying trip ♪ 🇮🇹 Things to note about traveling in a rental car in Italy ⚠️ ⚠️ Be careful if you see a ZTL sign! It's prohibited to enter, so you will be fined. ⚠️ Be careful of speedometers (what we call speedometers in Japan) Be careful if you see a machine measuring speed on the side of the road! It's easy to understand because there are marks on Google Maps. ⚠️Roundabout A type of rotary, a circular intersection without traffic lights. It's really difficult because you're given confusing directions on which exit to take😓When you get to the roundabout, just go slowly and make sure to check which exit to take✅ 🅿️Parking There are many free parking lots. There are no designated parking lots in the scenic area of ​​Val d'Orcia, so park on the side of the road like a depression in the road and enjoy the view. Most paid parking lots are pre-paid, so you pay at the machine near the entrance first, and then put the paper that comes out in the windshield so that it's easy to tell. (The parking lot I parked in Siena was post-paid) There are not many people writing about Val d'Orcia, rental cars, and parking lots, so please refer to it if you like🚗 #Italy #rental car information

Last year, I learned about this magnificent building during an international class, and I fell in love with it at first sight. I hope to see it in person someday. The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as Florence Cathedral, is the fourth-largest church in the world and serves as the main cathedral of Florence. It is the first iconic architectural masterpiece of the Renaissance era. Located in the historic center of Florence, Italy, the cathedral complex includes the main church, the bell tower, and the baptistery. In 1982, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of Florence's historic center. Although the overall design of the cathedral was completed by Arnolfo di Cambio, the massive brick dome was designed by the renowned Italian architect and engineer Filippo Brunelleschi. The dome is the most striking feature of the cathedral, showcasing Brunelleschi's expertise in ancient Roman architecture. He impressed the Pope at the time with a set of church blueprints he had worked on for fourteen years, earning him the role of chief architect for the dome. However, Brunelleschi faced a significant challenge—the domes of that era were typically very heavy. To address this, he made a crucial modification: he designed the dome with an inner and outer layer, leaving more space in between. He planned to construct two domes—an inner dome made of stone and an outer dome made of lightweight bricks. As he worked upward, he used lighter materials and connected them with sturdy rings made of stone, wood, and iron. This innovative approach significantly reduced the weight of the dome. The central dome of the cathedral, built by Brunelleschi, is the first Renaissance-style dome and serves as a model for dome architecture of the era. Weighing 37,000 tons and constructed with 4 million bricks, this legendary dome stands tall in Florence without a single supporting column, enduring for centuries.