Looking for the best places to visit in Tuscany in 2020 ? Think real experiences that connect you with nature, heritage, and the soul of this wonderful region.
Aside from top timeless destinations like Florence, with its well-known museums and attractions, this year we invite you to explore the best wine towns in Tuscany, Etruscan sites, ancient forests and the top food experiences around this land.
Tuscany best trip ideas for 2020
Explore the wine towns of Tuscany
Wine lovers look no further, because this is a Wine Mecca. Tuscany is one of Europe’s most important wine regions, with an viticultural tradition that dates back to Roman times. World famous red wines such as Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano go very well with the local cuisine (cured meat and traditional dishes), and offer a glimpse into the centuries-old heritage of this land.
Visiting one of the towns where wines are made – be it a hamlet in the Chianti region surrounded by beautiful vineyards or a hilltop town crammed with ancient cellars – is a must-do for anyone who loves wine. Check out the Best Wine Towns in Tuscany to explore.
=> Join this popular Chianti Afternoon Wine Tasting Tour from Florence to enjoy all the flavours and aromas of Chianti wine and learn the secrets of Tuscan wine making.
Following the Etruscans
Tuscany owes its name to the Etruscans, who inhabited central Italy since the 8th century BC. Chiusi, Vetulonia, Volterra, Cortona, Arezzo and Fiesole were important Etruscan cities. And in recent times archeological digs have revealed necropolises that bear witness to the former glory of Etruscan settlements.
Anyone who would like to see what’s left of the Etruscan past in Tuscany should explore the aptly named Costa degli Etruschi, or Etruscan Coast, starting from Populonia (the sea views are also great). Then head to Sovana Archeological Park in southern Tuscany and walk in their footsteps along the mysterious Vie Cave, ‘sunken roads’ excavated by the Etruscans from the soft tufa rock centuries ago.
Would like to deepen your knowledge of this people? Etruscan artfacts – vases, urns, statuettes – are guarded in fascinating museums such as the Museo Guarnacci in Volterra, and the Archeological Museum in Florence and in the towns of Cortona, Chiusi and Chianciano Terme.
Florence? Yes, but out of season
If you love art, shopping, food, markets, awe-inspiring Renaissance architecture, and a lively aperitivo scene, then Florence must be on your list. But ‘overtourism’ is a reality. And Florence in high season (lat Spring to early Autumn) might be a bit daunting if what you’re looking for is a relaxing and crowd-free experience.
=> Top 20 Ways to experience the real Florence!
We suggest avoiding the crowds and opting to visit in November or the Winter months when things are quieter and there aren’t endless queues for the sights. It’s also cheaper and you’ll discover a more authentic side of the city. Discover all the reasons why you’ll love Florence in Winter.
=> Insider tip: book a Guided Tour for Uffizi and Accademia Gallery: great value for money, don’t waste time in the queues and have an art expert revealing all the secrets of these amazing works of art.
Eat your way around Tuscany
Foodies, you’ve come to the right place. Italy is a truly unique destination for anyone who is passionate about food, and Tuscany’s cuisine is undoubtedly some of the finest in Italy. Mouthwatering salumi, earthy soups, truffles, thick cut steaks, traditional pasta dishes and sweet treats in abundance.
Would you like to try Siena’s famed handmade pici cacio e pepe? Or you’re dying to taste the real bistecca all Fiorentina? Find the Best Towns to visit for foodies in Tuscany, and where to savour the most famous Tuscan dishes you absolutely have to try.
=> Florence Gourmet Food Tour: taste gorgeous Truffle panini, Chocolate, artisan Gelato, Olive Oil, local Wine and more!
Reconnect with nature: hiking in Tuscany
Hiking in the Tuscan forests might be just what you need to reconnect with nature, get your energy back and exercise surrounded by wonderful scenery. If you like forests and off the beaten track places, the Foreste Casentinesi National Park in the Casentino area is the top, ancient woods on the slopes of the Apennines with a rich fauna, clean air and ancient monasteries hidden among the trees.
Or you can work your way up to the Apuan Alps near the coast, one of the best destinations for hiking in Tuscany . For the best scenery ever, idyllic countryside and soothing landscapes, choose to walk the stages of the Via Francigena in the Val d’Orcia. An experiences to treasure like no others.
=> My secret Florence: hidden gems in the city of the Renaissance.
=> Best Chianti Towns to visit
=> 12 Scenic Hilltop towns in Tuscany
