Here we go in search of the top 10 places to visit in Maremma. Places to see in Maremma that are sure to make you fall in love with this part of southern Tuscany. Maremma is famous for its beaches and clear water, charming small towns, unspoilt nature and rich traditions . Every year it attracts plenty of visitors in search of the authentic Tuscany, so let’s take a closer look at what it has to offer.
Top 10 Places to see in Maremma, Tuscany, Italy
1. Pitigliano, Sorano and Sovano – the “tufa towns”
Pitigliano, Sorano and Sovana are bewitching sights with histories that date back to Etruscan times. Pitigliano and its little sister Sorano both stand on rocky outcrops in the southern end of Tuscany looking for all the world like they’ve just jumped out of a fairy tale. Exploring their historic centres, you discover the ancient Jewish quarter, the fortress, archeological museum and Etruscan necropolis. While the tiny and picturesque town of Sovana has a magnificent Romanesque Cathedral that well deserves a visit.
2. Massa Marittima, Medieval charm
If you love your churches, you can’t miss the town of Massa Marittima, on the way to the coast. The lovely main squares boast a fascinating Cathedral which is one of the artistic highlights of the Maremma, the Cathedral of Saint Cerbone. You can sit in the square for a lunch or a drink, and soak in the captivating Medieval atmosphere. Admire the towers, an unusual Medieval fresco then walk up to the fortress for an unbeatable view. Visit the small but well organised Museum of Sacred Art that hosts a lovely Medieval painting by Lorenzetti and some works of art that were once part of the Cathedral.
=> A day in Massa Marittima: see all the highlights!
3. Castiglione della Pescaia
Undoubtedly one of the jewels of the Tuscan coast and one of the top places to visit in Maremma, Castiglione della Pescaia has it all. A small fishing port – from which boats depart early every morning for the daily catch – a Medieval fort atop of the hill dominating the gulf, stone steep streets filled with bougainvilleas and old doorways, excellent restaurants and bars. And, of course, some long stretches of beaches (some are free, many are equipped with bathing establishments) where you can enjoy sunbathing and long swims in the clean, safe waters.
=> Best coastal towns in Tuscany
4. Mount Argentario & its ports
Monte Argentario is a green promontory that stretches towards the sea offering gorgeous views. Here you’ll find the busy port of Porto Santo Stefano, with plenty of fish restaurants looking the sea. Porto Ercole old town is the most scenic spot, and the best beach is the Tombolo della Feniglia, on the southern side.
=> A driving itinerary in the Maremma: sea, ancient towns and countryside
5. Uccellina Nature Reserve
A vast part of the Maremma coast is taken up by the Uccellina Nature Reserve. The entrance is in Alberese where you can leave the car and join one of the excursions. The park is made up of 9 thousand hectares of protected land. With pine groves, Mediterrenean shrubland and long sandy beaches. This makes it the perfect place for trekking, birdwatching and breathing in the Mediterranean salty air.
=> 20 Great Experiences to have during your Tuscan trip!
6. Capalbio and the magical Tarot Garden
Capalbio is a small, walled village a few kilometres from the coast. There are quiet, tiny streets lost in time, picturesque corners and some good restaurants. During the Summer it becomes a mecca for tourists that spend their holidays at the nearby beaches.
=> A few kilometres from Capalbio, you find an unusual and charming sight: the Tarot Garden, where artist Niki de Saint Phalle created a unique world of colours and symbols. It’s a real feast for the imagination, for adults and kids alike (more info on the official site).
=> Discover the Most Picturesque Villages in Tuscany
7. Orbetello and its Lagoon
Another unusual spot in the Maremma, the small town of Orbetello sits in the middle of the lagoon of the same name. A lovely relaxed place where you can stroll or have an aperitivo, visit the piazze and the churches, the gorgeous views of the lagoon are just perfect when sunset approaches. It’s one of the most romantic spots along the Maremma coastline. You can also rent a bike and explore the area cycling. Or visit the WWF Lagoon nature reserve, home to various species of birds.
Nearby => Very close to Ansedonia, there are the ruins of the roman ancient town of Cosa, founded in 273 b.C.
8. Natural Hot Springs are one of the highlights of Maremma
Maremma is also famous for its hot springs. Here you’ll find thermal Spa Hotels and Resorts or natural hot springs where you can soak your bones in complete freedom. The Cascate del Mulino, close to Saturnia, are the most famous ones. They are very popular and can get crowded in high season. Better to venture there out of the main tourist season. Way back when, Etruscan and Romans used to hang out here for the therapeutic properties of the sulphureous waters.
=> Find your favourite walled Tuscan town!
=> 21 Places you must visit in Italy
9. Giglio Island, one of the Top 10 Places to see in Maremma for sea lovers
The Isola del Giglio is located 16 kms from the Argentario Promontory. With 28 kilometres of coastline – it is the second biggest island of the Tuscan Archipelago. It attracts visitors with its sandy beaches, small coves, clear azure waters, and relaxed pace of life. It has three villages: Giglio Porto, where you arrive from the mainland; the walled small town of Giglio Castello that has maintained a Medieval air; and Giglio Campese famous for its long sandy beach. Definitely one of the top places to see in Maremma for anyone who loves life at the sea.
The island of Giglio can be reached in an hour from Porto Santo Stefano (the biggest port on Mount Argentario). From the end of June to mid-September, day trips are offered by cruise ships from Porto Santo Stefano and Castiglione delle Pescaia => See more info on the island official site.
10. Montemerano, looking for picturesque
Heart-shaped. Pretty to a fault. Montemerano is a much-photographed village with a charming historic centre. Located close to Manciano, the town is built around the Piazza del Castello. Visit the church and enjoy a stroll around the stoney lanes. The buildings dotted with flowers have conquered the heart of many a visitor.
