Holidays in Tuscany: the 27 most beautiful places and a 7-day itinerary

Tuscan wines, rich history, beautiful cities and breathtaking scenery. Tuscany is definitely the most beautiful part of Italy (I’m not biased at all), and one should visit it at least once in a lifetime. And some of us need to keep coming back. Let’s take a look at when to go to Tuscany, what to see and what to taste.

When to go to Italy: weather in Tuscany

We recommend going to Tuscany anytime between April and October. Choose the time of your visit according to what you want to experience here and which part of Tuscany you decide to go to.

Tuscany is quite a large part of Italy and the weather varies. In the north there are high mountains that are still covered with snow in March, inland you can usually enjoy very pleasant weather and the coast has warm summers.

If you want to go for the sea and sunshine, then summer is ideal, but if you prefer cities and sightseeing, spring and autumn are best. If, on the other hand, you are attracted by the vineyards and would not like to miss the vintage, then you must travel in September or October.

Tuscany – the best accommodation

I have been to Tuscany several times and each time we avoided accommodation in Florence. Mostly we stayed in one place, at most we moved accommodation once.

You can try accommodation in Siena, such as Un terrazzo sulla magia, or for the ultimate Tuscan experience, book the typical Italian villa with pool Ca’ Bianca. Lucca is also well placed, with cheaper accommodation including Casamariu.

How to travel to Tuscany

Now that you’ve chosen your dates, the question of how best to get to Tuscany arises. There are several options, each with its own advantages.

By car to Tuscany

If you choose to drive, you can tailor your journey to suit you and you will be much more mobile on the spot, taking away the extra worry of finding public transport or a rental car.

• From Prague

If your starting point is Prague, then you will travel more than 1000 km to Tuscany and the journey will take 11 – 12 hours. There are three routes:

1. Via Pilsen to Germany, then Munich, Innsbruck and Tuscany. This is the shortest and fastest possible route.
2. The next route leads through České Budějovice, to Austria via Salzburg and straight to Italy.
3. The longest route takes you through Brno and Vienna, taking almost 12 hours.

• From Brno

1. The shortest route, which takes just over 10 hours, takes you through Vienna, then down past Graz straight into Tuscany.
2. The next and longest route is again via Vienna, but then you continue via Slazburg and Innsbruck.
3. The third option is only a few minutes more time efficient than the previous one. The route is the same as for no. 2, however, after Salzburg you will exit to Villach and connect to route no. 1.

By bus to Tuscany

Travel to Tuscany is also provided by the bus companies FlixBus and Student Agency. Rides cost from about 800 to 1500 CZK and it takes 15 – 23 hours to get there from Prague. It is therefore a relatively expensive, lengthy and not very comfortable travel option.

By train to Tuscany

You can also get to Tuscany by train. If you decide to use Czech Railways, you will change trains in Vienna and Bologna. Prices are around 1300 CZK. From Prague you will travel without delay for 17 hours, from Brno for 13.5 hours. You can buy your ticket online or in person at the ticket counter.

By plane to Tuscany

The fastest and most comfortable way to travel is by plane. There are two airports in Tuscany that can be reached by direct flight from Prague, Pisa and Florence.

If you don’t mind flying with low-cost airlines, then you can get a ticket through Ryanair for an average price of 1500 – 2000 CZK, but it is not an exception that you can find return tickets for 500 – 800 CZK. Moreover, the journey will only take you 1.5 hours. Via Vueling you can fly to Florence for 1500-4000 CZK.

But if you prefer classic airlines, then do not hesitate to use e.g. KLM, Swiss or Lufthansa. These companies connect Prague with Florence, but there are no direct flights in winter, making the journey a total of 6 hours. Tickets of these airlines will cost you from 1800 to 5000 CZK.

💡 TIP: Learn how to search for cheap flights.

Don’t forget your insurance – SafetyWing Travel Insurance

You may be unpleasantly surprised when travelling, so never forget to take out travel insurance. For us, a great option is long-term insurance from SafetyWing, which offers travel and health insurance for frequent travellers and digital nomads around the world.

SafetyWing offers insurance in two different plans (Essential and Complete), paid monthly, so if you’re not travelling at the time, it’s easy to switch off. It can be easily arranged online, even if you are already abroad and do not have to return to the Czech Republic after a certain period of time.

The basic plan for individuals aged 10-39 (Essential) costs from USD 56.28 per month (extended coverage for USA or risk sports can be added) and covers medical treatment, hospitalisation, transfer to hospital, loss of luggage, travel interruption and flight delays. Total coverage is limited to USD 250,000 per claim.

More comprehensive coverage is provided by the Complete variant. The main advantage of this plan is the high total coverage limit of USD 1,500,000. It covers not only unexpected health problems, but also ongoing medical care or preventive doctor’s appointments. Other covered services include:

• Transfer to a better-equipped hospital.
• Baggage loss cover.
• Psychological help.
• Theft insurance.
• Reimbursement of costs for travel delays or interruptions due to family reasons.
• Cover the cost of transportation or burial in the event of death.

Pricing for 18-39 year olds starts at $150.50 per month, with the option to add extended coverage for USA or at-risk sports.

Transportation around Tuscany

Tuscany offers visitors plenty of sights, attractions or beaches, so you’ll probably want to get around more. How to get around Tuscany?

You can move quickly around Tuscany by train

All the tourist towns in Tuscany are best reached by train. It is also the most frequent option provided by the carrier Trenitalia . You can also download the app of the same name, which allows you to search for all connections and buy tickets.

However, there are also machines at all train stops where you can get tickets conveniently and pay by card.

By bus to smaller towns

Buses in Tuscany serve as urban and intercity transport. You can also use it to get to smaller towns where trains don’t go. Bus tickets are available in newsagents, supermarkets and souvenir shops. There is also a bus ticket office at the main bus station in every major city.

It’s always easiest by car

If you are going on holiday in your own car, then it is available on site and you do not have to worry about other transport options. If you don’t have your own car but would still like to use it, then visit one of the car rental companies. You’ll find them at Pisa and Florence airports, and if you want to find your way around and compare rental offers conveniently, you can do so on RentalCars.

💡 TIP: We rent cars worldwide through RentalCars and have never had a problem.

Rules of the road in Tuscany

Before you hit the roads of Italy in a rental or private car, it’s a good idea to know the rules. These are more or less similar to ours. Italy may seem a bit chaotic, but speed limits must be obeyed or you could end up with a fine at home when your holiday is over.

• In the village, like here, the speed limit is 50 km/h,
• you may drive at 90 km/h on lower class roads
• and the maximum speed limit on Superstrade roads is 110 km/h.

Don’t forget that there are probably cameras watching you.

The 27 most beautiful places in Tuscany

Italy has always been a centre for the arts, with a huge variety of monuments, art, architecture and other cultural experiences. What should you not miss in Tuscany besides the beautiful beaches?

💡 TIP: We have prepared a detailed map with all the interesting places (monuments, beaches, hotels, cities,…) in Tuscany. The total number of seats is 97. For the price of one coffee you can buy the map here.

1) Florence – the city of artists

Florence was in 15. century as a major centre for artists. The greatest artists of the time, such as Donatello, Michelangelo, Botticelli and many others, worked here. As a result, this city has preserved a large number of must-see sights. If you’re heading to Tuscany for just a few days, you definitely need to visit Florence.

• Medicean villas and gardens – the Mediceans were from 13. the most powerful and wealthy family in Florence. Their villas are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Santa Maria del Fiore – this Florentine cathedral is a landmark of the city and another UNESCO monument. The dome was topped with a large dome designed by F. Brunelleschi, one of the most important architects of the time. V 15. century, the Medici brothers were assassinated here.
• Palazzo Vecchio – in the centre of the city, in Signoria Square, is the medieval fortified palace – Vecchio. Today the building serves as the town hall and museum.
• Uffizi Gallery – The Uffizi Palace is home to the world’s most visited gallery in Florence. You’ll probably have to wait in a pretty long line to get in, but it’s worth a visit. The most important artists are exhibited here, such as. Piero della Francesca, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo Buonarroti, Raffael Santi, Peter Paul Rubens and many others. The biggest attraction for visitors is the Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli. When walking around Florence, you should definitely not just pass by the Uffizi.

Tip: In the summer, be sure to buy your tickets in advance through GetYourGuide. Especially with kids, you’ll appreciate not having to stand in line. In Italy, we always took advantage of that.

2) Pisa

When you say Pisa, the first thing that comes to mind is the Leaning Tower. Its construction was started in 1173 and lasted about 200 years in total. It rises to a height of 56 metres, although the intention was to build it much higher. It’s open daily, and if you want to climb to the top, you pay 20 euros.

But Pisa is not just the Leaning Tower, there are many other sights to see.

• Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary – located in the Square of Miracles next to the Leaning Tower. At first glance, you will be struck by the pure white facade made of Carrara marble, as well as the shape of the whole building, very innovative at the time – the shape of a cross. The church is free of charge.
• Stay a while longer in the Square of Miracles and walk to the Camposanto Cemetery. During the walk you can admire the beautiful architecture, tombs, frescoes and sarcophagi.
• The Botanical Garden – beautiful flower beds, lots of herbs, fountains and an arboretum, all established in the 16th century. century and is still available today.

3) Saturnia Spa Town

Saturnia is a spa town in the north of Tuscany. Be sure to head here early in the morning, otherwise you have to expect a lot of tourists. We went right to the opening.

It is worth a visit here:

• Cascate del Mulino – sulphurous springs that spring directly from the ground and in which you can also bathe.
• Muezum Polo Culturale Pietro Aldi – an art museum with beautiful paintings.
• Church of Santa Maria Maddalena

4) Siena

This historic town, which is also the capital of the province of Siena, is interesting because it has preserved medieval architecture.

There is a lot to visit here, the most interesting are:

• Piazza del Campo – the main typical square with its famous shell shape. There are plenty of monuments around, but the square itself is sure to impress.
• Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary – dating from the 13th century. century and will captivate you with its appearance. It is decorated with black and white marble stripes.
• The Mangia Tower – a very typical tower for Siena is found on all postcards and photographs. It has stood here since 14. century and is 87 metres high.

5) San Gimignano

This city belongs to the province of Siena and its old part is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is famous for its towers.

• Galleria Continua – In San Gimignano, visit the Continua Gallery, where you’ll find Michelangelo, installation art and modern art. This collection will enrich you in many ways.
• Tenuta Torciano – you should also not miss Tenuta Torciano – a beautiful local vineyard.

6) Lucca

The capital of the province of the same name also hides precious treasures:

• The Church of San Michele in Foro in Piazza San Michele will enchant you with its original beauty.
• Torre Guinigi – a tower whose top is decorated with a crown of living trees.
• Pinocchio Park – an amusement park and garden that will be appreciated mainly by children.

7) Chianti Region

A very well-known wine-growing region, whose wine boasts the DOCG label. This means you will taste wines of the highest quality. It is located between Florence and Siena. It is an ideal place for cycling, walking or excursions to local picturesque villages. A wine festival is held here in September. If you love wine, be sure to take advantage of GetYourGuide’s offer to go wine tasting.

8) Montalcino

Another area famous for its wine, specifically the red wine Brunello di Montalcino. This mountain town belongs to the province of Siena and its centre is surrounded by walls. The first references to Montalcino date back to the 9th century. century.

9) Cortona

The town was founded by the Etruscans and from 14. century serves as the residence of the bishop. Two famous artists lived here, Pietro da Cortona and Fra Angelico. If you visit the town, don’t miss the Accademia Etrusca Museum and the Basilica of Saint Margaret of Cortona.

10) Volterra

Volterra is a historic town whose architecture has been preserved from ancient and medieval times. It stands on a rocky hill and is surrounded by walls all around.

• Gallery in the Minucci Palace – Solaini – in this gallery you can see the works of Italian painters from the 14th century. – 17. century.
• Guarnacci Museum – on the other hand, the Garnacci Museum displays Etruscan art objects that are also worth seeing.

11) Montepulciano

Another town famous for its wine, this time its own blue, late-ripening variety. In addition to the vineyards, you can see the church of Madonna di San Biago.

12) Arezzo

This city is very rich, famous especially for the production of gold jewellery. These are shipped from here all over Europe. In addition to jewelry, they are also beautiful frescoes in the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisiwhose creator was Piero della Francesca.

14) Livorno

This port town is the capital of the province of Livorno. It will captivate you with its picturesque landscape, but it also hides many sights.

• Terrazza Mascagni – visit this waterfront terrace in the evening for an absolutely breathtaking view of the sea and sunset.
• Fortezza Vecchia – this medieval fortress stands right above the harbour.
• Mercato delle Vettovaglie vettovaglie – in a building from the 19. century is now a famous market with food and cafes.
• Aquarium di Livorno – an aquarium full of animals from the Mediterranean Sea. You can also see sharks.

15) Viareggio

A town famous for its many beaches and the traditional carnival that has been celebrated here for three centuries. A themed museum, the Citadella del Carnevale, has also been created here .

16) Massa Marittima

A city of mineral springs, olive oil and iron, copper and mercury mines. It is not very large in size, but it still hides many sights and other beauties.

• Torre del Candeliere – a tower connected to the city fortifications, which you can climb to the top for a fee and enjoy a beautiful view of the city.
• Museum of Mining – an exhibition documenting metal mining, which has been carried out here for centuries.
• Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi – in this square you will find a beautiful Romanesque cathedral.

17) Grosseto

The capital of the province of Grosseto is especially famous for its wine and genuine Italian olive oil. You will find a large number of museums and churches, not least the Aldobraneschi Palace.

18) Fiesole

A town near Florence, the setting of Giovanni Boccaccio’s Decameron.

• Vincigliata – a castle surrounded by hills and forests, surrounded by beautiful nature.
• Roman Amphitheatre – this archaeological site of a Roman amphitheatre dates back to the 1st century. century BC. n. l.
• You can also see the ruins of the Etruscan walls.

19) Certaldo

The city where Giovanni Boccaccio, Italian writer and poet, lived 14. century. His house still stands on the main street of Via Boccaccio. The interior is decorated with frescoes by Pietro Benvenuti, but these date back to the 19th century. century.

20) Vinci – behind the most famous painter

A very inconspicuous little town, it is especially important because Leonardo da Vinci was born and lived here for part of his life. The local castle is now the Leonardo da Vinci Museum, where models of the artist’s inventions are on display. A little further from the castle stands Church of St. Crossesin which Leonardo was baptized.

21) Pietrasanta

The historic town of Pietrasanta was founded in the 13th century. century and became famous for marble mining. This marble was used by Michelangelo himself for his work. The town also includes the popular seaside resort of Murina di Pietrasanta.

22) Pistoia

Pistoia is famous for its historical monuments and wine. Regular flower markets are held here.

• Pistoia Zoo – at the zoo you can see red pandas, lions, bears and many other animals.
• Temple of Our Lady of Humility – the architect of this building was G. Vasari. The temple boasts the third largest dome in Italy.

22) City of the Etruscans – Sorano

This very old town was founded by the Etruscans in the 3rd century. century. The Jewish quarter of Via del Ghetto is located here. It dates back to the 17th century. century and there is a synagogue here that is no longer in use.

23) Little Jerusalem Pitigliano

This historic city full of interesting architecture is home to a fairly large Jewish community. Because of it, Pitigliano is called Little Jerusalem. The first official synagogue in Italy was established here. The town sits on a rocky hilltop where houses often blend into the rocks and vineyards and olive groves surround the town.

24) Val d’Orcia

Val d’Orcia is all you think of when you say Tuscany. Endless fields, hills, vineyards. The cypress alleys, which you will encounter at every turn, have a special charm. You can also visit the thermal springs of Bagno Vignoni, which are not for bathing. It is not for nothing that this area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

25) Apuan Alps

If you want to take a break from the sights and visit Italy for a few days, then head to the north of Tuscany, where the majestic Alps tower high above. They are made of crystalline rocks and white marble is mined here. The highest mountain of this mountain range is Monte Pisanino (1945 m).

26) Granite island of Giglio

Giglio is a granite island 16 km from the mainland. It is part of the Tuscan Islands National Park. There are vineyards, restaurants with local delicacies and many other attractions. It takes about an hour to get there, so if you’re in Italy for several days, Giglio Island is perfect for a day trip.

27) Tuscan Casentino Valley

TheTuscan valley on the Arno River surrounded by the mountains of Monte Falco and Monte Falterona. There is a National Park made up of beech and fir forests. Here you can taste sheep’s cheese or local bread called schiacciata. The area is famous for agro-tourism. Casentino also appeared in a famous book, written about by Dante Alighieri in his Divine Comedy.

💡 TIP: We have prepared a detailed map with all the interesting places (monuments, beaches, hotels, cities,…) in Tuscany. The total number of seats is 97. For the price of one coffee you can buy the map here.

Itinerary for a 7-day roadtrip in Tuscany

You could drive around Tuscany for a month and not see everything. Since I’ve been to Tuscany several times, I’ve put together an itinerary to see the best of Tuscany.

Day 1. Florence

You could spend more than one day in Florence. If you love art, definitely consider 2-3 days. But it is true that during the summer Florence is full of tourists and when we were there at the end of spring, we were glad to be going to smaller towns the next day.

What to see in Florence:

• Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo)
• Uffizi Palace
• Pitti Palace
• Ponte Vecchio Bridge
• Church of Santa Croce
• Church of San Lorenzo
• Piazza della Signoria
• Accademia Gallery
• Santa Maria Novella Cathedral
• Chapel of San Giovanni Battista (Baptistery)
• Bargello Palace
• Piazza delle Cascine
• Church of Santo Spirito

🏠 Where to stay in Florence: A totally luxurious hotel is Hotel Ungherese Small Luxury Hotel, but if you’re looking for something cheaper, check out hu Firenze Camping in Town, but beware, it’s far from the centre.

Day 2. From Florence to Siena

Leave Florence early in the morning for Siena. In Siena, you must visit the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo with its fountain by the famous artist Jacopo della Quercia. It is one of the most beautiful, original and important squares, which is also often full of tourists, so it is advisable to arrive first thing in the morning.

Be sure to see the Cathedral of the Assumption, the Mangia Tower and other historical monuments in Siena.

🏠 Where to stay in Siena: If you’re going in the summer, you’ll want to stay in a hotel with a pool; for a luxury experience, you can choose the relatively expensive but gorgeous Hotel Certosa Di Maggiano; if you’re on a budget, opt for the more affordable Il Pozzo Di Sant’Andrea or Palazzo del Papa Country Suites. A cheaper option is Albergo Bernini or the pool-free Villa Montarioso.

Day 3. Going to the heart of the Tuscan countryside in Val d’Orcia

From Siena, take the SR2 road towards San Quirico d’Orcia. From here continue on SR146 in the direction of Montepulciano. It is one of the most beautiful roads in Tuscany, you will probably stop very often, because this is where you take those classic views of the Tuscan countryside that you see in magazines and on postcards.

Visit the small Tuscan towns of Pienza, Montepulciano, San Quirico d’Orcia, Monticchiello, Montalcino.

I recommend staying in Montalcino, as it will only take you an hour and twenty minutes to get to Saturnia, where you definitely want to arrive on time.

🏠 Where to stay: If you want the real experience, you can stay at the luxurious Castel Brunello or the slightly cheaper but still quite expensive Podere Brizio. For more affordable accommodation, we recommend the Cordella in Montalcino Wine Resort and Agriturismo Collodi.

Day 4. Spa town of Saturnia (can be skipped)

I recommend arriving very early in the morning, otherwise you will have a huge amount of tourists. Saturnia will enchant you at first sight with its turquoise water flowing in cascades just below the town in the valley. Remember to take off all silver jewellery before swimming so that it doesn’t turn black.

There is more to explore in Saturnia, such as Porta Romana or Chiesa di Santa Maria Maddalena, but I recommend visiting the Etruscan city of Sorano.

Finish the day in Grosseto, where you can enjoy an evening wine tasting or take an evening stroll through the historic centre.

🏠 Where to stay in Grosseto: You can stay at Hotel Nuova Grosseto or B&B Le Mura.

Day 5. San Gimignano and Volterra

These two beautiful Tuscan towns are quite close to each other and can therefore be visited in one day. If you have more time, you can also go to Certalda, where Giovanni Boccaccio lived.

San Gimignano is famous for its 14 medieval towers and beautiful historic centre. I recommend to go here first, especially because it is usually quite crowded after lunch in the summer months.

Who hasn’t heard of the Etruscan city of Volterra! Volterra, or Velathri in Etruscan, is an extremely well-preserved ancient and medieval historical city, also called the city of alabaster. It can be found on a rocky plateau between the valleys and is surrounded by double walls.

🏠 Where to stay in Volterra: I would definitely go to the extremely well rated and especially cheap accommodation Fontesettimena, which is outside the centre. Or I would stay right in the centre of Volterra at Albergo Etruria. For us fans of typical Tuscan houses, there’s also the slightly more expensive Appartamenti Villa Mascagni.

Day 6. Across the beaches to the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Although beaches don’t usually feature in photos of Tuscany, Tuscany has quite a few. Head to Spiagge bianche beach first thing in the morning and then drive along the coast to Livorno. Livorno is a fairly industrial port town, well worth a short visit if you have enough time. If you’re in a hurry, head straight to Pisa.

At the Leaning Tower of Pisa, you will see a true tourist spectacle. People will be leaning from one side to the other, trying to push the tower away in photos or snapping pictures. You might want to take a funny photo yourself. But there are far more interesting places to visit in Pisa than just the Leaning Tower, for example:

• Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary,
• Piazza dei Miracoli,
• Camposanto Cemetery,
• Piazza dei Cavalieri,
• Santa Maria della Spina.

🏠 Where to stay in Pisa: Near the centre, you can stay at Casa Carducci 33 or La Corte di Lisa. For parking, however, B&B La corte di Stelio is preferable or just outside Pisa you will find Villa Orsini – A Retreat in Pisa – Food and Relax.

Day 7. Lucca and surroundings

Lucca is one of the popular cities that you can do in one day, but you might fall so in love with it that you want to stay. What to definitely visit:

• City Walls (Lucca Walls)
• San Martino Cathedral
• Guinigi Palace
• Church of San Michele in Foro
• Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
• Church of San Frediano
• Pfanner Palace
• Church of Santa Maria Forisportam
• Piazza San Giovanni
• Torre Guinigi Museum.

If you get tired of Lucca, you can go to other towns such as Collodi, Pistoia, and Prato.

🏠 Where to stay in Lucca: Beautiful accommodation is Lucca in Villa Lucrezia. For those who want accommodation with a pool, we recommend ai Santinelli.

Day 8. Return to Florence

If you’ve flown in, you’ll definitely be returning to Florence in the morning, where you can still visit the sights you missed or head out for sunrise. If you’re driving, you’re probably rearranging your itinerary to spend at least one full day in Florence, although art and architecture lovers will want to stay at least three days.

Tuscany with children: where to go?

Tuscany is absolutely perfect for a holiday with children, either choose a hotel right by the beach, such as Park Hotel Villa Ariston, or head to one of the water parks. Near Pisa, for example, there is Piccolo Mondo and in the province of Livorno there is Aqua Village Water Parks.

Boat trips in Tuscany

From Porto Santo Stefano you can reach the fabulous islands of Giglio, Pianosa and Giannutri by boat, beautiful islands with amazing coves. Elba is also beautiful. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Tuscany are right here, such as Fetovaia and Cavoli. Fetovia beach in particular has beautiful clean and clear water.

Beaches in Tuscany: Holidays by the sea

Whatever time of year you arrive in Italy, the beaches are definitely worth a visit.

The best and most beautiful beaches of Tuscany

Let’s take a look at the most beautiful beaches from the north of Tuscany to the south.

Versilia

On the north coast of Tuscany in Versilia, which is spectacular thanks to the imposing backdrop of the Apuan Alps, you’ll find the sandy beaches of Viareggio. It is a popular seaside destination, known for its summer nightlife. Viareggio is ideal especially for families with children, you will appreciate especially the soft sand and pleasant resorts.

Costa degli Etruschi: Quercianella, Castiglioncello, Baia del Quercetano

Heading south from Livorno you will reach the Costa degli Etruschi. A scenic road leading directly over steep wild cliffs overlooking the sea leads to Quercianello, a quiet and peaceful place surrounded by pine forests and Mediterranean scrub.

Baia del Quercetano beach

In Castiglioncello you will find one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Tuscany! Baia del Quercetano! A bay with crystal clear water surrounded by greenery and villas hidden amidst the vegetation

Golfo di Baratti, Populonia and Buca delle Fate

Further south of Castiglioncello we reach the picturesque Golfo Di Baratti, a beautiful and quiet bay framed by dunes covered with pine forests and a beautiful sandy beach. Here lies one of the most important Etruscan necropolises in Tuscany, dating from the ninth to the third century BC.

Cala Violina

Cala Violina is a beautiful bay in Maremma, in the municipality of Scarlino. The bay is enclosed by two headlands and there you will find fine white sand.

Castiglione della Pescaia

Still in Maremma, overlooking the sea, lies the picturesque Castiglione della Pescaia with its long sandy beach. Again, amazing resorts and crystal clear water. Especially families with children will appreciate it.

Beaches in the south of Tuscany in Monte Angentario

In Monte Argentario we are in the very south of Tuscany, almost on the border with the Lazio region. Argentario is a rocky promontory with charming bays and coves with crystal clear water. Porto Ercole and Porto Santo Stefano are beautiful fishing villages that have now become important tourist centres.
Among the most beautiful beaches in the area are Giannella beach, characterised by sand dunes, and la Feniglia, a long sandy beach.

Sandy beaches in Tuscany

If you prefer sand to rocks, this is a list of the most uninteresting sandy beaches in Tuscany:

• Camaiore – located near the town of the same name, it’s worth a visit if you want to enjoy some relaxation.
• Cala Violina – located in the Bandite di Scralino reserve. Interestingly, the sand on the beaches contains quartz grains.
• Roccette – located near Grosseto. Head to the beach if you want privacy.
• Castiglione della Pescaia – this beach is located in the harbour town by name.
• Marina di Alberese – you can find the beach in Maremma and admire the beautiful almond blossoms.
• Marina di Pietrasanta – is part of the Tuscan Riviera, it is mainly peace and quiet. An ideal place for relaxation.
• San Vincenzo – these beaches stretch for up to 20 kilometres and there is something for everyone. It is an ideal beach for a family with children.
• Cecina – holiday area in Livorno.

Pebble beaches in Tuscany

Even beaches with pebbles do not lose their charm:

• Marina di Pisa – the main unpaid beach is pebble, also suitable for families with children. Swimming is safe here, large boulders protect the beach from large waves and currents.
• Calafuria sandstone cliff – if you descend the cliffs, you will reach the pebble shore. The seabed is, however, sandy.
• Cala del Gesso – hard to reach, but beautiful pebble cove with emerald clear sea.
• Sansone – located on the island of Elba, it is covered with white pebbles and the sea is ideal for those who like to dive.
• Camogli – a pebble beach in northern Italy is the place to visit if you want to enjoy swimming in the sea with a view of the majestic mountains in the background.

Map with points of interest on your phone

Save a map of the most interesting places in Tuscany directly on your phone. After purchase, you will receive a link to a non-public Google Map that you can open or print at any time on your phone. All recommended ones are clearly marked on the map:

• Cities
• Sights
• Recommended hotels
• Museums
• Waterparks
• Islands
• Sandy beaches
• Pebble beaches