To travel around Tuscany is a spontaneous, unplanned exploration for some, whilst for others it is the most rigorously planned trip of their lives. It is essential that, when travelling this route, you follow a structered route in order to ensure you wont be rushed. You need to make sre you visit the cities of Siena, Florence, Pisa and Livorno. But you probably have not heard that tourists sometimes dive into the most unknown parts of Tuscany. If you are an adventurer who is attracted to this concept, do not hesitate to explore the hidden corners of this beautiful Italian region:
Montefioralle
Unknown and extrememly underappreciated. Montefioralle is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. What´s more you have access, from here, to explore the Chianti region of Italy, famous for its hills and vineyards, only a few kilometers from Florence.
Lucignano
The Arezzo, Lucignano is extremely inviting. You will be enticed to stop here and take a walk through its streets and get lost in time! The list of historical buildings that exist here is extensive but the number of inhabitants is, suprisingly, minimal in comparrisson. As the history that characterises this village is so rich and extensive, there is no shortage of remarkable constructions from different periods in time and styles for you to admire. Some examples include: communal palazzo, churches, fortresses and sanctuaries. The beauty of this city alone is enough to ensure it makes in onto your list of favorite places to visit.
The city of Bocaccio, Certaldo
Certaldo is a city which has been divided into two parts, the first being “Certaldo Alto” located above the hill, and the second, the lowest, more modern part of the city. We wll stay at the top of the city in order to explore the old town and admire its character. We will also get the chance to learn about the history of the life of writer and humanist, Giovanni Boccaccio, who was born and buried in this city. There is also a museum dedicated to him, in addition to other historial buildings.
Murlo
Murlo is a small yet extremely charming village. It is located in mountainous territory, on a hill just a 20 minute drive from Siena. It is the perfect place to travel to when you are on this route. The houses located here are picture perfect, so beautiful that you won´t put your camera down when you visit!
Vinci, the city of Leonardo
When in Florence you have to visit Vinci. Not only is this little city the hometown of Leonardo da Vinci, is is also full of charm, everything you would expect from a tuscan village. This is a good place to visit when on a trip to Florence, due not its close proximity. In Vinci, in addition to the visible history of its bulidings, you can visit the Leonardoda Vinci museum, which is home to the drawings and inventious of this rennaissance genius.
Pitigliano
If we were to think about a route, in reality this town is a little apart to the south of Tuscany. But it is worth the detour, and the images taken here confirm it. Pitigliano is located in a very curious place on an elevation of volcanic origin, at the foot of a set of vertical cliffs. As if that was not enough, it is as if this village has been frozen in time, with various medieval and Renaissance monuments perfectly preserved.
Collodi, la tierra de Pinocho
When approaching Florence via the north of Tuscany, you will pass through Collodi, in the commune of Pescia. This medieval citadel is linked to Carlo Lorenzini, the Florentine writer who wrote Pinocchio. In the village there is a famous park dedicated to Pinocchio, the most iconic tourist monument located here.
Have a read of our road giude of Tuscany to ensure your journey is as easy and stress-free as possible!