A road trip to Tuscany is a great way to explore this enchanting region, filled with romance, beauty and history.
Tuscany’s fascinating history, beauty and gastronomy
Its past is vibrant and fascinating: it was settled by the ancient and mysterious Etruscans and then the Romans. Tuscany was the region where the Renaissance flourished, attracting many artists, scholars and scientists – and this means that we can now visit a location with a unique heritage that makes a perfect destination for an unforgettable road trip, especially as there are many luxury villa rentals in Italy.
As for the natural side, the Tuscan landscapes are heavenly – it is no surprise that many directors have chosen to shoot their masterpieces here, from ‘Gladiator’ to ‘Succession’. Hills, vineyards and cypresses combine uniquely to form a relaxing landscape that we have dreamed of so much and is finally becoming a reality! The summers are long and hot, and the winters relatively mild, making it the ideal destination for a road trip at pretty much any time of the year.
Top it all off with excellent gastronomy, dominated by local products and the simple flavors of yesteryear. Just a quick look at some of the mouthwatering local Tuscan delicacies shows that this is a gourmet’s dream – salami, Panzanella, ricotta, and Tuscan black croutons, to name a few. Tuscany is one of the most famous regions in Italy!
Who has not imagined sipping a glass of wine in an agriturismo in the middle of the gentle hills touched by the warm light of the sunset? The only noise is the breeze creeping between the ears of corn in the fields. You oxygenate the Chianti in your glass, which you swirl in your mouth to savor better.
You’ve already started packing your suitcase, haven’t you?
A suggested itinerary for a road trip exploring Tuscany
Tuscany is a perfect destination to disconnect from daily stress, but it is also a treasure trove of cultural treasures. Think of Renaissance towns and charming medieval towns! A rental car is highly recommended as the most relaxing way of enjoying its countryside, which is difficult to access by public transport.
Just like renting a Dacia Duster car in Iceland, exploring the country’s breathtaking landscapes becomes even more convenient, allowing you the freedom to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems at your own pace.
What’s more, driving the winding roads of Tuscany is a vital part of the experience.
Here is a complete classic itinerary that allows you to discover the region at your own pace, without giving up the essentials, but also going off the beaten track! This itinerary takes place over a suggested seven nights or eight days:
Two nights in Florence
Three nights in Chianti
Two nights in Val d’Orcia
To get to Florence, flying to one of the large nearby international airports in Venice, Milan or Rome is recommended. You could then take a high-speed to Florence to pick up a rental car, which is where your Tuscan road trip will begin. There are several road trip routes that you could take. For example, you could opt to explore the areas of the north of Tuscany around Pisa and Lucca and the coastal area of Maremma in the west. Many variations are possible depending on the time you have and your personal preferences! You can add additional days and new stages to discover other places. Combining this itinerary with a maritime extension or a road trip in Umbria is easily possible. This still comparatively unknown region will surprise you with its wild authenticity!
Things to do and see on your Tuscan road trip
Tourist attractions abound in Tuscany. Michelangelo’s David and the Leaning tower of Pisa are perhaps the best known, but there are also many lovely castles you can visit along the route, wine-tasting experiences, and the Boboli Gardens in Florence.
When is the best time of year to go to Tuscany?
Tuscany enjoys a mild climate which makes it visitable almost all year round. This is especially true if you crave culture and enjoy city sightseeing. If, on the other hand, you want to enjoy outdoor activities that involve a lot of walking around, the best time of year to visit Tuscany is between the spring and autumn when there is still plenty of sunshine and lot, but it is not quite so baking hot. The months of July and August are the hottest and also the busiest. Autumn is especially lovely in Tuscany; the light is caressing, the countryside is covered in warm colors – and it’s harvest and truffle season!
Where to stay in Tuscany
In terms of accommodation, there are plenty of choices. Depending on your budget, you can decide to stay in a luxury rental villa on the hillside or the city centers or mix and match the types of accommodation for a genuinely varied trip!
A road trip to Tuscany is one of the most memorable holidays in the world, so you are in for a real treat!
