7-Day Tuscany Guide: Explore History, Cuisine, and Beauty

Day 1

Arrival in Bologna and Florence

Our 7-Day Tuscany Guide began as we touched down in Bologna and picked up our rental car from RentalPlus. We were thrilled with our DS7, a pristine, new model that added a touch of luxury to our journey. Driving through the rolling hills, we headed straight to our enchanting hotel, Borgo I Vicelli, just 30 minutes outside of Florence. The hotel was a dream come true, offering charming rooms, a delightful breakfast, and the warmest hospitality.

Exploring Florence

After dropping off our luggage, we set off to explore Florence. The city immediately captured our hearts with its rich history and stunning architecture. Wandering through Florence felt like stepping into an open-air museum. We treated ourselves to affogato at Vivoli, a renowned gelato shop, and later indulged in a sumptuous dinner at La Giostra. As we walked leisurely across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, we soaked in the vibrant atmosphere and marveled at the illuminated sculptures and historical buildings in Piazza della Signoria. Florence, with its timeless beauty, set the perfect tone for our journey.

Day 2

Siena, Val d’Orcia, and Pienza

Our day began with an exploration of Siena’s medieval streets, a journey back in time. The magnificent Siena Cathedral and the bustling Piazza del Campo left us in awe. We continued our adventure through the picturesque Val d’Orcia, where the stunning landscapes took our breath away. Lunchtime found us in Pienza, dining at Osteria Sette di Vino, where the delicious food and charming ambiance were truly unforgettable.

Day 3

Lucca and Pisa, Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo

We started our morning in Lucca, exploring the well-preserved Renaissance walls and the charming town center. Biking around the ancient walls was a highlight, offering unique views of the city. In the afternoon, we visited Pisa, where the Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli fascinated us with their history and architectural beauty. Our day ended with a stunning sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence, where we enjoyed breathtaking views and the vibrant local neighborhood.

Day 4

Chianti, Montefioralle, Monteriggioni, and San Gimignano

Driving through the scenic Chianti countryside was like stepping into a postcard. The vineyards and rolling hills were picture-perfect. We had an incredible meal at Ristorante Pizzeria La Cantina in Greve in Chianti, savoring the outstanding food, wine, and tiramisu. Our journey took us to the charming towns of Montefioralle, Monteriggioni, and San Gimignano, each offering unique historical and cultural experiences that enriched our trip.

Day 5

Winery Tour and Florence

Our day began with a tour and tasting at the renowned Marchesi Antinori winery, where we learned about the art of winemaking and enjoyed some exquisite wines. Back in Florence, we explored the bustling streets, crossed the Ponte Vecchio, and visited the oldest pharmacy, Officina Profumo di Santa Maria Novella. We indulged in delicious ice cream, had drinks at In Vino Veritas, and enjoyed a wonderful dinner at the famous Osteria Belle Donne. The day ended with a visit to the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, leaving us in awe of its grandeur.

Day 6

Cinque Terre and Montepulciano

We took a day trip to the stunning Cinque Terre, visiting the picturesque villages of Manarola and Riomaggiore. Despite the crowds, the scenery was mesmerizing. On our way back, we visited Monticchiello and ended our day in Montepulciano, where we had dinner at Enoteca La Dolce Vita, enjoying a delightful meal.

Day 7

Volterra and Departure from Bologna

On our final day, we checked out of our hotel and visited Volterra, a historic town known for its Etruscan heritage and beautiful landscapes. After exploring Volterra, we drove back to Bologna, returned our wonderful DS7, and prepared for our journey home, reflecting on an unforgettable week in Tuscany.

Our week in Tuscany was a symphony of unforgettable moments—exploring historic cities, tasting exquisite wines, and relaxing in serene villas. Tuscany’s beauty, culture, and cuisine left an indelible mark on our hearts, and we can’t wait to return.

Travel Tips

The best time to visit Tuscany is in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the countryside and smaller towns. We highly recommend Borgo I Vicelli for its charm and hospitality. Don’t miss out on trying local specialties like ribollita, bistecca alla Fiorentina, and gelato.

Final Thoughts

Our journey through Tuscany was more than a trip; it was a deeply enriching experience that brought us closer and created memories we will cherish forever. We hope this guide inspires you to embark on your own Tuscan adventure.

Have you been to Tuscany? Share your experiences or ask us any questions in the comments below. Follow our blog for more travel stories and tips!

Explore more and see you soon!