Top 5 Must-Visit Towns in Tuscany Beyond Florence and Pisa
For those yet to experience Tuscany, the idyllic descriptions hold true: winding hillside roads connect medieval villages framed by vineyards and olive groves. Locals embrace a leisurely pace, and visitors quickly fall into rhythm amid wine tastings and pasta feasts.
While a stay in a rustic villa offers relaxation, venturing out reveals the vibrant culture of Tuscany, whether traveling independently or on a guided tour. Iconic Florence (home to Michelangelo's masterpieces, the Duomo, and Ponte Vecchio) and Pisa's Leaning Tower draw crowds, but our top five towns stole the show.
San Gimignano
Spot the 14 soaring towers of San Gimignano from afar. This hilltop gem, 50km south of Florence, lies within its ancient walls. Limestone homes line car-free lanes packed with shops offering local wine, jewelry, and countryside-inspired art.
Home to 7,000 residents, the town invites slow strolls for gelato, cheese, bread, and wine tastings. Indulge in creamy gelato or inventive pizzas, then climb the 200+ steps of Torre Grossa in Piazza del Popolo for panoramic Tuscan views.
Piazza della Cisterna, the heart of town, features a central well perfect for people-watching and Gelateria di Piazza by renowned Sergio, celebrated worldwide. Thursdays bring a farmers' market. The Rocca castle ruins offer sweeping vistas.
Tuscany Tip: Grab cheese, olives, bread, and affordable wine for a sunset picnic atop the Rocca—an ideal finale.
Siena
Siena, another hilltop medieval marvel and UNESCO site, buzzes in Tuscany's core. Its highlight: the thrilling Palio horse race in shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, a centuries-old tradition.
Ascend 300 steps of Torre del Mangia for stunning overlooks. The 12th-century Duomo's black-and-white façade houses masterful Sienese art from medieval masters, predating Florence's Renaissance giants.
As a university city, Siena blends history with modern flair: quirky shops, street art, and lively pubs.
Volterra
Just 30km west of San Gimignano, Volterra follows the hilltop tradition but stands unique. Known to Twilight fans as a saga setting, its intact walls and six grand gates lead to car-free alleys of cinnamon-hued homes.
Artisans craft alabaster works echoing Roman times, visible in the amphitheater ruins. The 800-year-old Palazzo dei Priori inspired Florence's Palazzo Vecchio.
Tuscany Tip: Visit Piazza Martiri della Libertà for panoramic views over Volterra's red rooftops and Tuscany.
Lucca
Lucca, Tuscany's largest on our list (90,000 residents), sits in a valley encircled by massive 20m-thick walls and a former moat. Rent a bike or walk the 4km ramparts, a favorite for locals and visitors.
Roman roots shine in oval Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, now ringed by colorful homes. Enjoy cappuccino or pizza here. Marvel at churches like Duomo di San Martino, San Giorgio, and San Michele in Foro.
Compact and walkable, Lucca brims with markets, dining, music, and boutiques. Ascend medieval Torre Guinigi (with rooftop oaks) or Torre delle Ore via original wooden stairs for thrilling views.
Tuscany Tip: €3.50 per tower or €5 for both.
Barga
North of Lucca in green mountains, Barga escapes the usual crowds and rolling hills.
Steep, car-narrow streets and stairs lead to the serene medieval cathedral, far quieter than Siena's.
Summit views reward the climb; refuel with exceptional pizza and antipasti at a family spot.
Tuscany Tip: Perfect 35km day trip from Lucca.
