With its stunning cities, charming hilltop towns, world-renowned wineries, and the mesmerizing golden light that casts over the landscape, it’s no wonder that spending a few days in Tuscany is a must for many first-time travelers to Italy!
If you’re planning your inaugural visit to this region and want to make the most of a delightful 3-day Tuscany adventure, this guide has you covered (and if you find yourself with more time, check out our suggested Tuscany road trip itinerary).
Having spent months exploring Tuscany in depth over the years, we’ve experienced the region in nearly every way imaginable: budget-friendly trips, luxurious getaways, traveling by car or train, exploring as a couple or with family… Regardless of our travel style, we’re always captivated by Tuscany’s rich cuisine, breathtaking scenery, exquisite wines, and the genuine warmth of its people.
However, when it comes to planning your trip to Tuscany, we understand that organizing an itinerary can be challenging. With so many beautiful small towns scattered throughout the region that are often trickier to access than larger cities, it can be hard to decide where to go.
While it’s impossible to see more than a small glimpse of Tuscany in just 3 days, you can still experience enough to ensure your trip is truly unforgettable.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan a fantastic 3-day Tuscany getaway!
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Where is Tuscany Located in Italy?
If you’re just starting to plan your trip and wondering what exactly Tuscany is—beyond its picturesque imagery of charming hilltop towns and rolling landscapes—here’s a quick overview.
Tuscany is one of Italy’s 20 administrative regions, and it’s a sizable area at that!
Situated on the country’s western coast (yes, Tuscany does have beaches and even islands!), Tuscany is classified as part of Central Italy.
It is bordered mainly by the regions of Emilia-Romagna (home to Bologna) to the northeast, and Umbria to the southeast. It also shares borders with Lazio (which includes Rome) to the south, Marche to the east, and Liguria (which features Cinque Terre) to the northwest.
Florence is the capital city of Tuscany.
How to Structure Your 3-Day Tuscany Itinerary
In a region as expansive as Tuscany, creating the perfect itinerary is more about determining your priorities than trying to see everything.
For example, driving from Florence to Saturnia (Tuscany’s most famous hot spring) takes over 3 hours each way—so with countless attractions to choose from, that drive might not be worth it if you only have a few days.
To help you streamline your trip, we’ve provided several recommended Tuscany itineraries in this post, showcasing destinations we love that are also popular among first-time visitors.
This guide to a short stay in Tuscany remains fairly high-level to keep you focused on the highlights, and we’ve included links to more detailed blog posts about specific destinations where relevant. However, with over 100 blog posts about Italy on Our Escape Clause, it’s likely we haven’t covered them all!
If you’re curious about particular locations, you can easily use the search bar at the top right corner of the screen (or via the pop-out menu on mobile) to find additional posts about a specific city or town.
Should You Rent a Car for 3 Days in Tuscany?
Do you need to rent a car in Tuscany?
Not necessarily: with trains, buses, and organized day trips, it’s possible to have an enriching experience without getting behind the wheel, especially for a short 3-day visit!
However, if you’re a confident driver and wish to access smaller villages that lack train stations (or have stations located a few kilometers from town, which is common for hilltop towns), explore off the beaten path, or stay in the countryside (like renting a villa), having a car becomes essential.
We’ve enjoyed our time in Tuscany both with and without a car and while there’s no definitive right answer, you may find that one option fits your needs better than the other!
The 3-day itineraries provided below include options for both driving and not driving, so you can choose the travel style that works best for you!
If you’re uncertain whether driving in Tuscany sounds appealing or daunting, check out our driving tips in the Tuscany road trip guide for insights on what to expect.
For those decided on renting a car, we recommend using Discover Cars to compare prices and features from various rental companies to find the best deal.
Shop rental cars for your Tuscany trip today!
Exciting 3-Day Tuscany Itinerary Suggestions (Ideal for First-Time Visitors)
With countless attractions and experiences to choose from (including a hands-on cooking class!), there are virtually limitless ways to structure a 3-day itinerary in Tuscany.
To help you tailor your experience and get a sense of what’s possible in a few days in Tuscany, we’ve created sample itineraries highlighting the most popular attractions for first-time visitors.
One option includes driving, while two are designed for non-drivers, but you can easily adapt them to suit your preferences and style!
Classic Introduction to Tuscany Without a Car: Florence, Hill Towns, and Wineries
If you’re looking for the quintessential 3-day introduction to Tuscany without the need for a car, this Florence-centered itinerary is an excellent choice.
In fact, it’s the itinerary we recommend in our suggested 2-week Italy itinerary!
Days 1 and 2: Florence
Kick off your Tuscany adventure by immersing yourself in Florence, the region’s cherished capital!
Our recommended 2-day Florence itinerary provides detailed tips for making the most of your time, but some highlights include visiting Florence’s iconic Duomo, wandering across the Ponte Vecchio, indulging in Tuscan cuisine, and exploring local markets filled with cheese, leather, and more.
Of course, be sure to visit the renowned Uffizi Gallery (we highly recommend this tour) and Galleria dell’Accademia (home to Michelangelo’s famous David), both of which are essential stops!
No trip to Florence is complete without capturing stunning views from a vantage point—be it the top of the Duomo, Piazzale Michelangelo, or Palazzo Vecchio (one of our favorites).
Day 3: Organized Day Trip to Hill Towns and Wineries
After soaking in Florence’s highlights, it’s time to head into the hills!
Planning an organized day trip to the Tuscan countryside can be an excellent way to experience the region without the hassle of transportation (like arranging a designated driver!), plus it often includes a range of experiences at a great value.
This fantastic day trip often includes visits to the beautiful city of Siena as well as the iconic hilltop town of San Gimignano, along with a lunch at a family-run vineyard in the Chianti wine region.
While the itinerary is fast-paced, it’s still well-organized and manageable with a small group guided by a knowledgeable expert. Without a car, it would be logistically challenging to visit all these locations in just one day.
Book your day trip to the Tuscan countryside today!
Classic Introduction to Tuscany With a Car: Siena, Montepulciano, and the Val d’Orcia
Looking for a quick 3-day road trip across Tuscany?
This itinerary takes you through some of the region’s most beautiful towns, villages, and rolling landscapes!
Day 1: Siena
The beautiful city of Siena, which famously rivals Florence, is a less crowded option for your base during a 3-day exploration of Tuscany—and it’s much closer to the legendary Val d’Orcia!
When in Siena, be sure to visit the stunning, oval-shaped Piazza del Campo (known for the famous biannual Palio di Siena horse race), the breathtaking Siena Cathedral, and the panoramic view from the Torre de Mangia.
To fully experience the Duomo di Siena, we highly recommend the Gate of Heaven tour that grants access to the rooftop and terraces—it’s one of our favorite activities in Siena!
Don’t miss the scenic viewpoint at the Panorama near the Unfinished Facade within the cathedral complex. You’ll be wowed by what is arguably Siena’s most iconic view:
Day 2: Montepulciano + Wine Tasting
On your second day, head to Montepulciano!
This charming hilltop town is a favorite among Tuscany visitors, known for its wine, stunning views, and beautiful town center.
Start your day wandering through Montepulciano’s historic center (like nearly all hilltop towns in Tuscany, you’ll need to park outside and climb a little to reach the top—but it’s so worth it!).
Be sure to explore the beautiful Piazza Grande, visit one of Montepulciano’s famed wine cellars, appreciate the views from the Medici Fortress, and explore the local shops and cafes (we love Caffe Poliziano and make a stop there every visit for the amazing terrace views!).
After enjoying Montepulciano, wine enthusiasts can opt for a tasting at a nearby vineyard.
If you want to remain in the town, don’t worry! Montepulciano has fabulous wine cellars right in town (we adored Cantina de Ricci, and this organized visit is also a great way to explore).
Day 3: The Val d’Orcia
Located about an hour south of Siena by car, the picturesque Val d’Orcia is home to some of Tuscany’s most remarkable landscapes, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
With rolling hills framed by tall cypress trees, stunning golden light, charming towns, and some of Tuscany’s most photogenic spots (like the Chapel of Madonna di Vitaleta), this semi-rural area offers everything that you’ve envisioned about Tuscany.
Towns such as Pienza, Montalcino, and Monticchiello make great destinations while exploring Val d’Orcia, and we recommend visiting at least two of them during your final day in Tuscany. Simply driving through the landscape to soak in the scenery can be just as enjoyable!
If you plan to visit any of the renowned photography spots in and around Val d’Orcia, be prepared for crowds—especially during peak seasons and around sunset.
The breathtaking views in this enchanting valley are undeniably special, which is why the Val d’Orcia remains so popular with photographers, artists, and travelers alike.
Independent Tuscany Itinerary Without a Car: Florence, Lucca, Pisa, and Siena
If you’d like to avoid driving in Tuscany and are not interested in organized tours, this easy 3-day itinerary—entirely accessible by train—is perfect for you!
This itinerary is easiest to complete from Florence, although with some planning and a few longer train rides with transfers (traveling between Siena and Lucca is not direct, but feasible), you can technically stay in any of the highlighted cities along this route.
If desired, you could add a twist by renting a car for just one day and spending your third day visiting a couple of smaller villages—like San Gimignano and Volterra—making for a perfect blend of experiences during your Tuscan getaway!
Day 1: Florence
With only a day in Florence, you won’t be able to experience as much as in our earlier Tuscany itinerary suggestion, but despite its rich art and culture, Florence is still a relatively small city!
You can easily fit in a visit to the Duomo, discover a viewpoint or two, see David at the Galleria dell’Accademia or the Uffizi (or if you’re an art enthusiast, why not both?), stroll over the Ponte Vecchio, and enjoy a leisurely piazza-hopping experience through the historic center.
End your day by catching the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, followed by enjoying a gelato while people-watching in a piazza (we adore Piazza Signoria for this). You will leave feeling like you’ve enjoyed a remarkable introduction to Florence.
For more details, here’s our recommended one-day Florence itinerary!
Day 2: Siena
From one breathtaking Tuscan city to another: on day two, take the train south to Siena!
Upon arrival, climb to the historic center and follow the same outline suggested previously: Piazza del Campo, the iconic Duomo of Siena, and the panoramic view from the Panorama should all be top priorities.
Make sure to fully explore the Duomo Complex (which you should!), savor a leisurely lunch, and perhaps pop by the frescoed Santa Maria Della Scala Hospital. You’ll find that a full day trip from Florence to Siena is entirely attainable!
Day 3: Lucca + Pisa
For your final day, if you’re visiting Tuscany without a car or the desire to embark on an organized day trip, Lucca and Pisa make for the simplest and most rewarding destinations to connect with Florence and Siena.
Lucca, especially, is one of our favorite towns in Tuscany, recognized for its well-preserved town walls, known as the “City of 100 Churches” (including at least one with a mummy!), the oval-shaped Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, and the unique Torre Guinigi, where visitors can enjoy a garden in the sky while admiring stunning views of Tuscany.
Easy to stroll through and incredibly picturesque, it’s a must-visit during your time in Tuscany!
Pisa, while not always as beloved by repeat Tuscany visitors like Lucca, is home to one of the world’s most famous towers—which is even more stunning in person than in photographs.
While we wouldn’t advise spending the bulk of your day in Pisa (and you’ll want to book your climb up the tower in advance), if you’ve always dreamed of seeing the Leaning Tower, pairing a visit there with one to Lucca is a great way to wrap up your 3 days in Tuscany.
If timed well, trains between Lucca and Pisa are only about 30 minutes apart, making it simple to combine these two charming towns into one fantastic day trip from Florence.
Tips for Spending a Few Days in Tuscany
Identify which parts of Tuscany you want to explore.
Tuscany is a surprisingly large region, often with rural landscapes that may not easily connect to one another, especially once you venture off the popular tourist routes!
After numerous visits to Tuscany, we still have yet to experience every gem it has to offer, partly because the distances can be quite daunting for day trips.
With only a few days to enjoy the region, it’s best to concentrate your itinerary geographically wherever possible.
Florence, situated in north-central Tuscany, can be effortlessly paired with attractions like Lucca and Pisa to the west, as well as the Chianti wine region to the east and San Gimignano to the southwest.
The Siena area is perfect for reaching spots like Volterra, Monteriggioni, the Val d’Orcia, and Montepulciano (for day trips).
Montepulciano itself is an excellent base for exploring the renowned Val d’Orcia to the west (such as towns like Pienza and Montalcino), alongside Cortona (the picturesque town featured in Under the Tuscan Sun).
Some famous sites, like Saturnia, are surprisingly far from some first-time Tuscany itineraries, but they can certainly be included if they are a priority for you!
Consider Organized Day Trips—Especially to Wineries!
If your goal is to experience a wide variety of the Tuscan countryside in one day, partake in a wine tasting without stressing about designated drivers (especially given the generous pours at Tuscan tastings!), or a combination of both, don’t overlook the possibility of signing up for an organized day trip in Tuscany!
While not all tours around the world offer good value, Tuscany tours generally provide excellent experiences that fit a variety of budgets.
With a tour, first-time visitors can often see more while enjoying less stress, plus access unique experiences like enjoying farmhouse lunches with stunning views that would otherwise require more effort to enjoy independently.
Some of our most cherished travel moments in Tuscany have come through guided experiences!
This popular day trip option (afforded by one of our favorite Italian tour companies) is particularly well-suited for several itineraries over the course of 3 days in Tuscany.
Book your day trip to the Tuscan countryside today!
Renting a Car—A Great Compromise
While the itineraries provided above suggest all-or-nothing regarding car rental, you can absolutely take a more flexible approach!
Consider basing yourself in a city like Florence, Siena, or Lucca, and then renting a car for just one day to explore the countryside at your own pace.
This approach not only reduces rental costs, but makes your trip significantly less stressful compared to having overnight responsibility for a rental car, which can complicate navigation and parking in city settings.
Check out one-day car rentals in Tuscany today!
Parking Strategies When Driving in Tuscany
One of our favorite tips for reducing stress when driving into a new Tuscan town is to research public parking lots in advance. Set your GPS for that specific parking area rather than just the town’s name.
This dramatically minimizes the risk of accidentally entering a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato), avoiding potential fines while also making your journey into town much smoother.
Be aware, though, that this strategy isn’t infallible—sometimes the chosen parking lot will be full, or you might stumble upon street parking on your way. Still, it generally simplifies your few days in Tuscany!
Prepare for Climbing in Tuscany!
Tuscany is renowned for its charming hilltop towns, filled with narrow, winding streets and bustling foot traffic.
This picturesque landscape may have you pondering where all the cars are; the answer is usually that they are parked in garages constructed beneath these towns or on the outskirts of historical centers. This means you’ll often need to trek uphill to reach the town center.
While some cities, like Siena, do have escalators to alleviate some of the uphill effort, be ready for a bit of a workout when walking around the small towns in Tuscany!
FAQs for Spending 3 Days in Tuscany
Is Three Days Enough for Tuscany?
While you could spend a lifetime uncovering all of Tuscany’s hidden treasures (and we certainly strive to!), if your plan is to balance an introduction to Tuscany with exploring other parts of Italy, 3 days is a great start.
During your full 3 days in Tuscany, you’ll have the opportunity to see a city or two, explore the countryside, sample the local cuisine, taste wine, and soak in the views from hilltop towns.
While it’s likely you’ll leave ready to plan your return trip after just a few days, you’ll have enough time to enjoy a delightful variety of what makes this region so special.
What Are the Best Places to Visit on Your First Trip to Tuscany?
Some of the most popular destinations in Tuscany include Florence (the region’s capital), Siena, Montepulciano, Pisa, Lucca, the Chianti wine region, San Gimignano, and the scenic Val d’Orcia.
Ultimately, any location that piques your interest is certainly worth visiting!
Other fantastic places to check out include Saturnia (and many lesser-known hot springs like Bagno Vignoni), Arezzo, Cortona, Elba Island, and the coastal town of Forte dei Marmi.
In addition to specific sites, unique experiences, like a Tuscan cooking class we loved, horseback riding through the countryside, and Vespa tours (we adored this one) also often top Tuscany bucket lists!
Is it Better to Visit Tuscany or Florence?
This commonly asked question can confuse first-time travelers; however, remember that Florence is part of Tuscany—it is actually its capital!
For this reason, Florence serves as one of the most convenient bases for taking day trips to explore the enchanting Tuscan hill towns and wineries, which is often what visitors are referring to when they mention traveling to Tuscany for the first time.
Is a Car Necessary in Tuscany?
The question of whether to rent a car in Tuscany is often debated, but here’s a succinct answer: while technically you don’t need a car to enjoy your visit, you may find one invaluable for access to your ideal itinerary!
Driving in Tuscany is easier than in some parts of Italy, but it’s best suited for those who are confident in their driving skills and are accustomed to driving regularly.
What is the Best Time to Visit Tuscany?
While every month offers unique charm, our favorite times to visit Tuscany are September and October, thanks to the pleasant fall weather, thinning tourist crowds (although the numbers seem to linger longer each year), and the excitement of the wine harvest.
November, which brings the olive harvest and the freshest olive oil to the shelves (with a flavor second to none right after pressing!), is also lovely.
April and May are popular as they allow you to enjoy the best of spring in Tuscany, complete with lively markets and blooming flowers—all before the school holidays begin, bringing larger crowds.
Winter tends to be the quietest time in Tuscany, particularly in smaller towns, although it also presents the most economical travel options.
Explore More About Visiting Tuscany
Ready to continue planning your unforgettable 3 days in Tuscany?
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