Experience: 7 Days in Tuscany

Ah Tuscany...la Toscana, you kind of have to say that with a romantic sigh, don't you? This beautiful region has been written about a million times, I imagine because it is too enchanting to not. I usually spend at least a few days in Tuscany every summer, this year being one of the first exceptions, thank you COVID-19. Nevertheless, since I'm in a daydream filled with nostalgia, I figured everyone could use a little Tuscan love these days.

Here I am going to outline a quick 7 day getaway to Tuscany. If you have more vacation time at the bottom I have extra day trips you can arrive to easily from Florence. Also keep in mind that if you want to add on a new part of Italy, Florence is one of the main hubs. You get easily get to Milan, Rome, Venice, Naples, Sicily, Sardinia, basically all of Italy from Florence either by train, car, or a short flight. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

There are several ways of arriving to Tuscany. You can fly into Milan and take the train to Florence, that's what I usually do. Another option is flying directly into Florence, usually requiring a connection somewhere. Lastly, you can pick up a car in Milan and drive down directly to Siena. (If you plan on doing Florence first, I don't recommend renting a car because parking is horrendous and expensive in this city.)

After arriving in Florence pick up a rental car, both the airport and the train station have pick up locations. From there drive down to Siena. I know this seems like a long day, and it is, but it's worth it, the views are beautiful from the train and the road.

Once you're in Siena, unpack because you'll be based out of here for a few days.

Even though this is a bit touristy, an aperitivo in the Piazza del Campo is a must. After that enjoy a 5 minute walk to the Antica Trattoria Papei and order a delicious Pici alla Cardinale.

Day 1: Arriving to Tuscany

Speaking honestly, we all fight jet lag as much as we can, but you're also on vacation right? You don't want to lose your whole first day, you also don't want to be a zombie for half the day. The slow pace of this little town allows for a lazy start. After a delicious Italian breakfast - obviously involving blood orange juice and coffee, it's time to explore the city.

While it's argued that Siena is "boring", I beg to differ. The city is a perfect start to the trip because of its relaxed nature. Walking around through the different contrade (districts) transports you to a different time. If you're able, don't miss climbing to the top of the Torre del Mangia, the view of Siena is breathtaking. Exploring the tiny winding streets, and finding your little restaurant is part of the charm, and should not be overlooked. Inside the city walls you will not find as many sites as say Florence or Rome, but that's not really what you go to do there. You can pop into the smaller museums, learn the history of the Palio (or the actual Palio if you get to experience that in July and August), visit the cathedral, and relish the little shops.

Day 2: Siena

You're not going to go to Italy's wine region only to see Botticelli's masterpieces or walk in the steps of the Medici. Now that you're well rested, you've earned yourself a glass of wine, or a few.

While Tuscany is home to many vineyards, I really enjoyed Antinori. I happened to try one of their wines at dinner and thought I'd look up the vineyard, only to find it was a popular "must-see" in the region, and only a forty minute drive from Siena. The vineyard and wine tour are amazing, finishing off with a lovely wine tasting. I highly recommend booking an afternoon tour so you can enjoy lunch at their restaurant Rinuccio 1180.

Day 3: Vino, per favore!

Whether you are someone who enjoys a road trip or not, I promise you this is one you will not regret. The winding Tuscan roads are not only stunning but exciting. Start off with the Sant'Antimo Abbey in Montalcino. Then make your way through the spectacular Val d'Orcia make your way to a small town called Monticchiello, be sure to reserve seating out on the terrace of Osteria La Porta.

Lots of photo opportunities in the Val d'Orcia driving next to countless Cypress trees and sunflower fields. If you're a fan of the film Gladiator, you'll really appreciate it. Probably around now you're ready for a coffee break in Pienza.

Your last stop should being spending the afternoon in San Gimignano. The tower is beautiful, no elevator, but the stairs are much more comfortable than the tower in Siena. The view at the top does not disappoint. Now, San Gimignano claims to have the best Gelateria in the world - I beg to differ, scroll down to Florence to see my preference, however, I leave it up to you to choose your preference. Once you've enjoyed your delicious gelato and done some shopping, finish off your day in Tuscany with an aperitivo at the Divinorum Wine Bar before heading back.

Day 4: drive through Tuscany

Before you say goodbye completely to the Tuscan countryside you must experience it by horseback. This is a really easy ride, if you have never been horseback riding before you can arrange to have a crash course before your tour through the hills and woods. If you are comfortable on a horse, there are fields where you are free to run, all depends on you. Pants and closed shoes are a must, no matter how hot it is, believe me.

After this, you should be getting hungry and passed check-in time at your hotel in Florence, so it's time to experience a different type of aperitivo. La Terraza at the Hotel Lungarno and SE STO on Arno at the Westin Excelsior are two of my favorite rooftops to experience sunset over beautiful Firenze.

Once you've finished your relaxed aperitivo, it's on to dinner at Buca Mario, one of my favorite restaurants in the world. Be sure to try the Florentine Steak and the potatoes. It is a bit tricky to find but I promise it exists.

Day 5: on to Florence

Florence, this is a city that I could spend weeks in. There are lots of sights to see and they are all worth it. The Uffizi Gallery or Galleria dell'Accademia are filled with precious masterpieces, like Michaelangelo's David.

Florence bucket list: Uffizi Gallery, Galleria dell'Accademia, Il Duomo, Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Gardens, Santa Maria Novella Perfumery, and Palazzo Vecchio

While that bucket list is a bit cliche, it is cliche for a reason. These sights are filled with so much culture in history, you should at least make your way to a couple.

A little hole in the wall restaurant I always return to for lunch is Acqua al 2. If you are in a rush and want to pick up a quick sandwich and head on to the next sight All'antico Vinalo is your place.

In case you don't feel like doing anything I've recommended in Florence, please don't break my heart by missing this recommendation because it is the most important one. The best ice cream in the world is in Florence at La Carraia. It is two bridges down from Ponte Vecchio, you will be tempted by other ice cream shops along the way, don't do it. Wait until La Carraia, if there's a long line, I promise it moves very fast.

Day 6: Florence

The morning of departure is always one that can bring on some blues. I like to get an breakfast next to the Duomo. It's a bit of a tourist trap, but I don't mind if I get to enjoy looking at the most breathtaking building I've seen.

If you don't have to leave until later on, be sure to go shopping. Florence is famous for its elegant and beautiful style, it is truly unique and everything I have bought in this town has lasted me many many years.