The Best 7-Day Tuscany Itinerary

Updated May 2023

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This post is all about how to spend 7 days in Tuscany.

Tuscany Itinerary

This blog post will cover:

7 Day Tuscany Itinerary Overview
Florence Guide
Siena Guide
Pisa Guide
Cinque Terre Guide
Transport For This Tuscany Itinerary
Accommodation For This Tuscany Itinerary
Places To Eat and Drink During Your Tuscany Trip
Additional Activities You Can Do During Your Tuscany Trip
More Blog Posts You'll Love

7 Day Tuscany Itinerary Overview

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Tuscany Itinerary

7 Day Tuscany Itinerary

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Florence Guide

Florence is a spectacular must-see city with incredible culture, architecture, religion and collection of renaissance art. Three days in Florence is the perfect amount of time to sightsee and eat lots of gelato, pasta, and pizza (a necessity when visiting Italy)!

Below contains lots of different things to do so you can pick the ones you find most interesting and tailor the itinerary to you.

Day 1: Explore Florence

Wonder around Florence - Take the morning slow, grab a coffee/breakfast and wonder around Florence to get a taster for what the city has to offer.

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella - It is located very close to the main train station in Florence and is one of the most important Gothic churches in Tuscany. It takes around 1-1.5 hours to tour this church.

Basilica di San Lorenzo - One of the largest and oldest churches in Florence. It was the parish church of the famous Medici Family, the rulers of Florence. Some of which are buried at the church.

Accademia Gallery - A must-see when in Florence! This art museum is home to Michelangelo's David sculpture. It only takes around 1 hour to visit. However, the museum can get very busy so I would definitely recommend booking your tickets in advance. Even if you have a ticket, you could be waiting in a long line to get into the museum, so you may want to consider buying skip-the-queue tickets.

Florence Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore) - One of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world. You NEED to visit!

There's so much more to the cathedral complex than just visiting the cathedral, including:

Dome - You can visit the cathedral's dome which offers incredible panoramic views over the city but I wouldn’t recommend if you are afraid of heights as the way up is a bit dodgy!
Bell Tower - You can walk 414 steps to the top of the bell tower for spectacular views of Florence.
Baptistery - You can visit the baptistery, which is an octagonal building directly in front of the cathedral.
Opera del Duomo Museum - A museum which offers an educational path to discover the artists and places who contributed to the monumental complex of the Opera and the Renaissance period.
Santa Reparata - Located between the first and second pillars in the cathedral, there is a staircase which descends into the Santa Reparata. Here is where you will be able to see the construction phases of one of the first Christian temples in the history of Florence.

You can buy a combined ticket called the "Brunelleschi Pass", which will give you access to all of the cathedral sites listed above. To visit them all will take around 2-3 hours.

Day 2: Explore Florence

The Uffizi - The Uffizi art gallery contains some of the most famous pieces of art in the world, including the Birth of Venus and Primavera. The architecture of the Uffizi building and halls is incredibly impressive so I'd highly suggest visiting even if you're not a huge art fanatic. It can take between 3-4 hours to visit the Uffizi and given how popular it is, I'd suggest booking an early timeslot to avoid some of the crowds.

Piazza della Signoria - This is a town square, a stone's throw away from the Uffizi art gallery. It contains the Fountain of Neptune and the Loggia dei Lanzi, which is an open-air (free) sculpture gallery. Definitely worth a wonder around.

Palazzo Vecchio - The Palazzo Vecchio has been the town hall of Florence for centuries and is one of the most famous landmarks of the city. It is situated directly on the Piazza della Signoria. It's a microcosm of roman ruins, a medival fortress and Renaissance chambers and paintings. It takes around 1-2 hours to visit.

Day 3: Explore Florence

Basilica of Santa Croce - An incredibly impressive basilica in the city centre containing the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo. It takes around 1-2 hours to visit.

Bargello Museum - One of the oldest buildings in Florence, which is a former barracks and prison has now been transformed into an art gallery. It's home to Renaissance sculptures and works by Michelangelo. It takes 1-2 hours to wonder around the musuem.

Ponte Vecchio bridge - Stroll across this very famous bridge, which spans the River Arno. It is one of the oldest bridges in Florence and has become an iconic landmarks of the city.

Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens - The Pitti Palace is one of Florence's largest palaces and is home to many museums and galleries. Directly behind the palace si the Boboli Gardens, a historical park in Florence. It takes around 4-5 hours to cover the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens.

Piazzale Michelangelo - The perfect place to watch the sunset over the city and all it's famous landmarks. This is not to be missed!

Siena Guide

Siena is beautiful and being only around an hour from Florence, it's well-worth the visit. There’s not loads to do here but it’s nice slowing down the pace of your travels and just sitting in the square with a drink, people-watching.

Day 4: Explore Siena

Wonder around Siena - Take time to explore the alleys of Siena and discover what the city has to offer.

Piazza del Campo - This is the main square in Siena and it is incredible! It's the perfect place to sit (with a drink in hand) and enjoy the architecture of the beautiful buildings. Make sure you don't miss the fountain of joy on the square.

Palazzo Pubblico - The Palazzo Pubblico is Siena's Town Hall/palace located on the Piazza del Campo. The architecture and frescoes alone make a visit here worth while. An hour is enough see all the main parts of the palace and you can buy your tickets when you get there.

Torre del Mangia - Located on the Piazza del Campo and attached to Palazzo Publicco, this tower is 87 metres tall and was built during 1338 and 1348. You can purchase tickets from the Palazzo Pubblico to climb up the 400+ steps to the top of the tower for a beautiful view of Siena. Allow for 1 hour for your visit.

The Basilica of San Domenico - This church was built between 1226-1265 and is one of the most important churches in the city. It should take less than an hour to visit this church.

Siena Cathedral (Duomo) - One of the most magnificent examples of Romanesque-Gothic churches in Italy. I would highly recommend visiting, its interior is just as impressive as its exterior.

There's so much more to the cathedral complex than just visiting the cathedral, including:

Gate of Heaven - Explore the rooftop walkways around the top of the church.
Piccolomini Library - Situated inside the cathedral, this beautiful ornate library with vibrant Pinturicchio frescoes is not to be missed!
Museo dell'Opera del Duomo - One of the oldest private museums in Italy. One of the most impressive parts of the museum is the stained glass window, the passage to which is lined with statues.
Crypt - Descend into the crypt beneath the Cathedral, where wall-lined frescoes dating back to the 13th century were rediscovered in one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the past twenty years.
Baptistry - The baptistry was built between the 1310s and 1320s and contains impressive early renaissance art.
Facciatone - Observation point at the top of an unfinished church facade offering panaromic views over the city.

You can buy a ticket called the "Opa Si Pass", which will give you access to all of the cathedral sites listed above (except from the Gate to Heaven). To visit them all will take around 2-3 hours.

Pisa Guide

Pisa is quite a small city and there's not a huge amount of sightseeing to be done here. So, one day is perfect to explore what this city has to offer.

Day 5: Explore Pisa

Wonder around Pisa - Walk around the city and stroll along the River Arno to see more of Pisa than just the tourist sites.

Pisa Cathedral (Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta) - This romanisque cathedral is situated right next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Piazza dei Miracoli. It's often overshadowed by the Leaning Tower of Pisa but its equally just as impressive, if not more so!

Baptistery - The largest baptistery in Italy and it has incredible acoustics. Twice an hour, the attendant will demonstrate this by singing a few notes.
Camposanto - Located on the north side of the cathedral square, the camposanto was founded in 1277 to accommodate the graves that until then were scattered all around the cathedral.
Museo dell’Opera del Duomo - Displays original artwork from the cathedral, baptistery, camposanto and Leaning Tower of Pisa.

You can buy a combined ticket, which will give you access to all of the cathedral sites listed above plus the Leaning Tower of Pisa. To visit all of these will take around 2-3 hours.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa - The whole reason why most people visit Pisa is to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa! It's an iconic building which leans by 4 degrees due to an unstable foundation. You can climb the 294 steps to the top of the tower for a splendid view over the Piazza dei Miracoli.

Palazzo dei Cavalieri - A palace with a intricately beautiful facade located on Knight's Square. It dates back to the 16th century when it used to house knights but is now part of the city's university. You can't go inside but the square and building are impressive to visit none-the-less.

Santa Maria della Spina - A small church located by the River Arno. You can visit the church but only at specific times.

National Museum of San Matteo - Contains the largest collection of art in Pisa. This hidden gem isn't that well known so its a great place to escape the hoards of tourists at the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It should take between 1-2 hours to visit.

Cinque Terre Guide

Cinque Terre consists of five charming seaside villages along the Italian Riviera including Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. It's very easy to get between the villages in the Cinque Terre as the train links are excellent.

You'll probably won't be able to visit all 5 villages in the 2 days but you could pick 2/3 of the villages that appeal most to you and visit them. It's also easy to get from the Cinque Terre back to Pisa or Florence if you have a flight that you need to catch.

Day 6: Explore Riomaggiore and Manarola

Wonder around Riomaggiore - This is the first village in the Cinque Terre, you will reach from La Spezia. Wonder around the streets and sit by the marina for an incredible view of the gorgeous village.

Here's 5 things to do in Riomaggiore:

Relax on the pebble beach - At the marina, take the stairs to the left which will take you to the ferry dock. Just past there, you will find Riomaggiore's pebble beach.
Terra di Bargòn - Visit their cantina in the historic centre of Riomaggiore for a wine tasting (takes 40 minutes to 1 hour) or walk 35 minutes to their vineyards to get a 2.5 hour tour and enjoy a wine tasting.
Riomaggiore Castle - Built in 1260, with additions being made in the 15th and 16th centuries. It's more of a tower than a castle but you get a good view from the top.
Church of San Giovanni Battista of Riomaggiore - Founded in 1340, this is the main church of Riomaggiore and offers great views over the town.
The Santuary of Montenero Riomaggiore - If you fancy doing something a bit more strenuous, then you can hike 45 minutes to this remote catholic church and monstery with amazing views overlooking the ocean.

Wonder around Manarola - This is the second village in the Cinque Terre, you will reach from La Spezia. Manarola is built on a high rock, 70-metres above sea level. It is easily one of the most romantic villages in the Cinque Terre.

Here's 5 things to do in Manarola:

Manarola Outlook Viewpoint - This viewpoint is only a 5-10 minute walk from the village centre and offers an unrivalled view over Manarola, which is made even more dreamy at sunrise or sunset.
Take a dip in the Marina - Sunbathe on the rocks or go for a swim in the marina.
Church of San Lorenzo - This lovely stone church dates back to the 14th century and is decorated by frescoes. It's only 10 minutes from the harbour.
Vineyard Walk - Next to the Church of San Lorenzo, there is a path with a wooden railing. This path will take you through the vineyards to the Punta Bonfigio cemetery, which offers a great view over Manarola. This walk will take around 20-minutes.
A Piè de Campu - They offer wine tastings, tours of their vineyards and in the cellar and also, pesto making classes.

Day 7: Explore Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso

Wonder around Corniglia - This is the third village in the Cinque Terre, you will reach from La Spezia. It's the least visited out of all the villages due to its lack of port and difficult accessibility (382 steps to be precise). However, those who visit tend to fall in love with this little village.

Here's 5 things to do in Corniglia:

Largo Taragio square - Visit the main square in the village which has a chapel (Oratorio dei Disciplinati di Santa Caterina) and monument.
Cornigilia Viewpoint - An incredible viewpoint which overlooks the village, hillside and the Italian Riviera.
Chiesa Di San Pietro - A gothic church which was erected in 1334, its impressive interior definitely makes for a worthwhile visit.
Marina di Corniglia - The most perfect place to enjoy a drink (and food) overlooking the Italian Riviera.
Terra Rossa - Try local wines at this wine bar. It has an outdoor terrace, which is a lovely spot to watch the sun setting over Corniglia.

Wonder around Vernazza - This is the fourth village in the Cinque Terre, you will reach from La Spezia. Some say that Vernazza is the most picturesque village in the Cinque Terre with its marina surrounded by colourful houses.

Here's 5 things to do in Vernazza:

Sunbathe and swim - Choose between the Vernazza port sandy beach, infront of the Church of St. Margaret of Antioch, on the rocks around the marina or even, Vernazza beach, which is a short walk and hidden away.
Vernazza Viewpoint - The viewpoint isn't tagged but if you follow this link to Google Maps, it will show you where the viewpoint of Vernazza is, which is even more beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Doria Castle - A medival fortress dating back to 1000 CE, head up a steep staircase to reach it but in return you'll get sweeping views over the village.
Church of St. Margaret of Antioch - Small 14th century catholic church with an octagonal tower.
Cantina Cheo - Visit their vineyards which are perched just above Vernazza, and enjoy a wine tasting.

Wonder around Monterosso - This is the fifth and final village in the Cinque Terre, you will reach from La Spezia. The largest village in the Cinque Terre and the one that has the most resort feel. Monterosso is split into two sections; the old town and new 'beachy' part (aka Fegina) - they are only separated by a small walk.

Here's 5 things to do in Monterosso:

Monterosso Beaches - The only sandy beaches in Cinque Terre can be found in Monterosso. The best and largest sandiest beach is 'Spiaggia Fegina', which is the perfect place to relax, sunbathe and swim.
Statua di San Francesco d'Assisi - Statue located near the Torre Aurora (13th century fortification tower), which looks over the old town and Lingurian sea.
Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista - A catholic church dating back to the 14th century with beautiful white and black stripes. The Church of the Dead is located a stones throw away and also, has these iconic stripes.
Convent of the Capuchin Friars - This monstery in the old town of Monterosso has a calm serene atmosphere and incredible panoramic views.
Punta Mesco - It'll take 1 hour to hike to Punta Mesco, which is a scenic spot providing stunning views to the Cinque Terre coastline.

Transport For This Tuscany Itinerary

You don't need to hire a car for this trip, it is totally possible to do this full Tuscany itinerary using only public transport (trains/buses). In fact, I can personally vouch for this as I did this full itinerary using only trains. However, saying that, a car would allow you to explore more of the Tuscany countryside.

So, how long does it takes to get from city to city by car, train or bus?

Florence to Siena

By Car - Just over 1 hour to drive from Florence to Siena.
By Train - You can take a direct train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station in the city centre of Florence to Siena. This journey will take roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. For an adult one-way train ticket (age 26-59) costs approximately £9 as of May 2023. You can book your ticket through this link: www.thetrainline.com.
By Bus - It takes roughly 1 hour from Florence to Siena by bus (direct). An adult return bus ticket (age 26-59) seems to be cheaper than the train as it only costs approximately £7.30 as of May 2023. You can book your ticket through these links: www.flixbus.com or www.thetrainline.com. Flixbus does seem to be the slightly cheaper option.

Siena to Pisa

By Car - It takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to drive from Siena to Pisa.
By Train - It takes over 1 hour and 40 minutes by train to get from Siena to Pisa Centrale station. This train journey is not direct and most include a change in Empoli. For an adult one-way ticket (age 26-59), it costs approximately £10.20 as of May 2023. You can book your ticket through this link: www.thetrainline.com.
By Bus - You can get a direct bus from Siena to Pisa, it takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. An adult one-way ticket (age 26-59) can cost as little as £5.50 as of May 2023. You can book your ticket through this link: www.flixbus.com.

Pisa to Cinque Terre

The following transport options are all from Pisa to La Spezia. La Spezia is the best base from which to explore the Cinque Terre. Once you actually get to the Cinque Terre, the best way to get from village to village is by trains.

By Car - It takes 1 hour to drive from Pisa to La Spezia.
By Train - All trains from Pisa Centrale to La Spezia Centrale are direct. There are three different train companies that operate on this route (InterCity, Trenitalia and Frecciargento). Depending on what train company you book with means that your journey will take anywhere as little as 47 minutes to 1 hour 24 minutes. Prices also range depending on the train company with the lowest adult one-way ticket costing £7.40 as of May 2023. You can book your ticket through this link: www.thetrainline.com.
By Bus - You can get a direct bus from Pisa to La Spezia, it takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. An adult one-way ticket (age 26-59) can cost as little as £4.50 as of May 2023. You can book your ticket through this link: www.flixbus.com.

Traveling to a better world — Photo by Patrick / Unsplash

Accommodation For This Tuscany Itinerary

All the options below were chosen with peak season in mind and two people sharing.

Florence

Budget (£0-£100 per night)

Mid (£100-£200 per night)

High-end (£200+ per night)

Siena

Budget (£0-£100 per night)

Mid (£100-£200 per night)

High-end (£200+ per night)

Cinque Terre

The budget and mid accommodation options below are in La Spezia, which isn't in the Cinque Terre but offers a great base for exploring it. I really struggled to find nice accommodation actually based on the Cinque Terre for these budget to mid price ranges. The high range accommodation option below is situated in Riomaggiore, one of the five Cinque Terre villages.

Budget (£0-£100 per night)

Mid (£100-£200 per night)

High-end (£200+ per night)

Pisa

Budget (£0-£100 per night)

Mid (£100-£200 per night)

High-end (£200+ per night)

Places To Eat and Drink During Your Tuscany Trip

All of the options below are rated above 4.5/5 stars with A LOT reviews so you can take comfort in knowing they will all be very good! However, that being said I've only listed 3 restaurants, sandwich shops, bars and gelato places for each destination you will visit on this Tuscany trip.

Florence

Restaurants

La Fettunta (£) - A casual restaurant serving up hearty Tuscan classics including yummy pasta dishes.
La Buchetta Food & Wine Restaurant (££) - This lovely cosy restaurant serves up a traditional menu. If you need further incentive to visit, a lot of the reviews say this was the best meal of their Italy trip here!!
Osteria Vecchio Cancello (££) - A beautiful restaurant serving up delicious food. According to some reviews, it's the best steak they've ever had so not to be missed!

Sandwich shops

All’Antico Vinaio (£) - A truly legendary sandwich shop in Florence!
L' Girone De' Ghiotti (£) - They serve up delicious sandwiches, meat and cheese boards and wine/beer, what more could you ask for!
I Fratellini (£) - Rustic spot for sandwiches and wine.

Bars

Manifattura (££) - Classy spot for delicious cocktails and Italian spirits for the wee hours of the night.
Rasputin (£££) - A secret cocktail bar in Florence.
B-Roof, Grand Hotel Baglioni Firenze (£££) - A luxurious rooftop bar with panoramic views over the city.

Gelato Places in Florence

Gelateria La Carraia (£) - A small family-owned shop serving up delicious gelato!
Perché no!... (£) - A historic gelato shop serving up seasonally changing flavours.
Vivoli (££) - Dating back to 1929, it's Florence's oldest gelataria meaning that they know a thing or two about serving up some of the best gelato.

Siena

Restaurants

Osteria Permalico (£) - Relaxed restaurant with traditional Italian food.
Osteria La Sosta di Violante (££) - Serving up modern twists on classic Siena-style dishes.
La Taverna di San Giuseppe (£££) - Elevated and refined Tuscan dishes in a beautiful rustic cellar.

Sandwich shops

Pizzicheria De Miccoli Snc Di De Miccoli E Zambito - Delicious sandwiches, meat and cheese boards and wine. Yum!
Du' Cose da Berna (£) - Serving up yummy sandwiches, tasty snacks, beers, cocktails and wine.
II Bocconcino (£) - This little deli serves up fresh sandwiches as well as small bites.

Bars

BLANDIS - Wine & Cafè - A little bit of everything, serving up coffee, cocktails, wine and snacks.
Trefilari Wine Bar (££) - A wine bar with tasty treats.
Vineria Tirabusciò Siena (££) - Cosy little bar serving wine and light tuscan dishes.

Gelato Places in Siena

La Vecchia Latteria (£) - Delicious gelato right in the heart of Siena.
The Masgalano Gelateria (£) - Little gelato shop with rave reviews.
Gelateria La Mandorla (££) - They serve gelato, along with other sweets treats including cannoli.

Pisa

Restaurants

La Taverna di Pulcinella (£) - Down-to-earth restaurant serving up Neapolitan-style pizzas and homemade tiramisu.
Ristorante Cantina Vasari (££) - Modern restaurant with a seasonally prepared menu and locally sourced wines.
Branzo | Pisa (££) - Minimalist restaurant with delicious seafood options and international cuisine.

Sandwich shops

Il Crudo (£) - Sandwich shop in the heart of Pisa offering up delicious sandwiches and antipasti boards.
I Porci Comodi (£) - Small sandwich shop serving up fresh sandwiches and meat and cheese boards. Plus it also caters to vegetarians.
L'Ostellino (£) - Old-fashioned counter serve using the finest and freshiest of ingredients to make yummy sandwiches and antipasti boards.

Bars

Scaccomalto - Tap Room (£) - Lovely tap room offering up a wide selection of Italian beers. They also do some tasty snacks if you get peckish.
Caffetteria Carraia Del Nicchio (££) - It's marketed as a wine bar but it really does a bit of everything; cocktails, coffee and meals.
Bar Mocambo (££) - Casual bar with a nice atmosphere and extensive drinks list including delicious cocktails!

Gelato Places in Pisa

La Bottega del Gelato (£) - Good selection of gelato right in the centre of Pisa.
Gelateria De' Coltelli (£) - Offering up a mix of traditional and unique gelato flavours.
Gelateria Artigianale Rufus (££) - Quality gelato made using the freshiest ingredients.

Pissa in Pisa — Photo by Anna Church / Unsplash

Cinque Terre

It depends where you are going to be visiting in the Cinque Terre but here's some of the best options across the five villages.

Restaurants

Il Pirata delle 5 Terre, Vernazza (££) - Serving up the freshiest seafood and pasta dishes.
Da Eraldo, Monterosso (££) - This beautiful restaurant is situated on the village square and serves up seafood and charcuterie boards as well as tasty pasta dishes.
Nessun Dorma, Manarola (££) - One of those unforgettable restaurants you just can't miss on your travels! It has incredible views over Manarola and serves up delicious food and wine. Perfection!

Sandwich shops

Pippo a Vernazza - Tradizione & Street Food, Vernazza (£) - Fresh sandwiches and pasta, which you can takeaway and enjoy down the seafront.
Pizzaria Kepris, Riomaggiore (£) - This is not a sandwich shop but it serves up the most delicious pizza so I had to mention it. Plus, I don't know about you but you might be getting a bit sick of having sandwiches for lunch everyday so it's good to switch it up.
Cappun Magru, Manarola (££) - This little shop offers fish sandwiches and so much more including pasta, snacks and wine/beer.

Bars

Old School Cocktails & Food, Riomaggiore - Quaint bar serving up delicious cocktails, beer and food with great views.
Enoteca Da Eliseo, Monterosso (££) - A wonderful place to enjoy a drink and some snacks in the Cinque Terre.
Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma, Riomaggiore (££) - Perfect place to enjoy a wine overlooking the sea.

Gelato Places in Cinque Terre

Gelateria Sorbetteria Gelateria 5 Terre, Manarola - This gelato place caters to everyone as it offers lactose free, vegan and gluten free options.
Alberto Gelateria, Corniglia (£) - They serve up traditional and unique gelato flavours, perfect to try something a bit different.
Gelateria La Scogliera, Monterosso (£) - Located right on the beachfront, it's the perfect place to enjoy a gelato with an amazing view. If you don't fancy gelato, they also offer drinks including coffee and wine.